2 early Blackhawks trade targets after 2025 playoff elimination

The New York Rangers made Chris Kreider available through trade for most of the 2024-25 campaign. At one time, it seemed as if Kreider would retire a Ranger. It would certainly be weird to see the veteran winger in another jersey. However, it’s a rather likely possibility at this time.

Kreider has had an up-and-down season with the Rangers this year. In fact, he has been demoted to the fourth line at times leading into the trade deadline. The veteran winger has remained a solid goal scorer, as he’s potted 19 goals in 58 games. However, his playmaking has fallen off a cliff, as he’s gone from 36 assists in 2023-24 to just four this year.

Kreider is signed for another two seasons following 2024-25. He has a 15-team no-trade clause that gives him a measure of control in his next steps. Despite the struggles, he is on a near 30-goal pace over an 82-game season. And he had three straight 30+ goal campaigns prior to this year.

The Blackhawks can find value in Kreider’s goal-scoring. They have the financial ability to absorb his $6.5 million salary for the next two seasons, as well. If the veteran winger is willing to join Chicago, he makes a ton of sense. Especially if they miss out on Mitch Marner or another top winger in NHL Free Agency.

Matias Maccelli could be available for trade

The Utah Hockey Club is looking to make big moves in NHL Free Agency. They have a motivated owner who both has the money to spend and a willingness to spend it. Utah made big trades for Mikhail Sergachev and John Marino last summer. This summer, they could swing for a player such as Marner.

If they do, a roster player could certainly be dealt, especially if it’s in a “hockey trade.” Winger Matias Maccelli is one name to watch in this scenario. Utah reportedly made Maccelli available during trade deadline season. And they could do so again in the offseason.

Maccelli has had a rough season for the Utah Hockey Club this year. He has played 55 games, but has only scored eight goals and 18 points. This is a far cry from his career performance in 2023-24. Maccelli scored 17 goals and 57 points for the now-defunct Arizona Coyotes last year.

Maccelli is under contract for the 2025-26 season. After that, he becomes a restricted free agent. The Utah Hockey Club star has shown impressive playmaking ability in the past. At 24 years old, he could be a worthwhile risk for the Blackhawks if he’s made available.