Blackhawks Acquire Joe Veleno from Red Wings, Send Mrazek, Smith to Detroit

Veleno was the 30th overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft by the Red Wings. Originally considered a center, Veleno has played all three forward spots in Detroit. The 25-year-old has not been a high-level scorer with Detroit, but more opportunity could unlock something in his game. Veleno posted a career-high 28 points during the 2023-24 season across 80 games. Veleno is under contract for next season at $2.275 million. 

On the other hand, Petr Mrazek returns to Detroit, having been drafted by the team in 2010 and spending five and a half seasons between the pipes. Now, Mrazek will team up with Cam Talbot and Alex Lyon down the stretch for Detroit. Mrazek has struggled in 2024-25 to the tune of a 3.46 goals against average (GAA) and 10-19-2 record in 33 starts. That said, Mrazek earned his current two-year deal after posting a 3.05 GAA on a bad Hawks team in 2023-24. 

For Craig Smith, Detroit marks his sixth NHL team and fifth in the last three seasons. The veteran had a strong start to the 2024-25 season, recording nine goals and seven assists over 40 games, and now has an opportunity to contribute to a playoff push with Detroit. Smith will be a free agent at the end of the season.