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Blackhawks Player Grades: Spencer Knight
Apr 2, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Colorado Avalanche right wing Logan O'Connor (25) takes a shot on goal against Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Spencer Knight (30) during the third period at United Center. Photo: Talia Sprague/Imagn Images

Prior to the 2024-25 season, Petr Mrazek and the what-ifs of Arvid Soderblom were the Chicago Blackhawks' immediate plan in net. Soderblom had a really nice year, but is in need of a new contract and Mrazek just wasn't the same version of himself that earned him a respectable extension from the Hawks. 

However, a disgruntled Seth Jones meant a trade was possible, and the Blackhawks capitalized. By sending Jones to the Florida Panthers, the Blackhawks received a 2026 first-round pick and goaltender Spencer Knight. Knight now profiles as the long-term answer in net for Chicago. 

Story of the Season

Beginning his season in Florida, Knight had a strong start to the year as Sergei Bobrovsky's backup. Having worked back from some time away dealing with his OCD, Knight settled in beautifully with the Panthers. In his first full-time action in the NHL since 2022-23, Knight posted a 2.40 GAA and a 12-8-1 record in Florida over 23 appearances in 2024-25. Upon arriving in Chicago, Knight's GAA rose to 3.18, but he was still more than enough to get fans excited about what he brings. 

Perhaps one of the top highlights of the entire season, Knight absolutely shut down the Los Angeles Kings in his Blackhawks debut back in early March. The playoff-bound Kings were limited to just one goal on 42 shots as Knight backstopped the Hawks to a 5-1 victory. Knight's arrival in impressive fashion captivated fans. 

A young defense in front of Knight caused him to be exposed at times, but the flashes of brilliance were aplenty for Knight in Chicago. As the roster in front of him grows, his numbers should also improve. That said, it feels like the tandem between he and Arvid Soderblom, or even Drew Commesso, could be the immediate future in net for Chicago. 

Player Grades

Steve Kwiatkowski's Grade: A-

Knight played a heavy load of games with the Blackhawks. I think that contributed to some of his bad nights (should I do the pun?). But when he's good, he's great. Kyle Davidson added an excellent piece to this team.

Tony Marchese's Grade: A

Acquired in the deal that sent Seth Jones to Florida, Spencer Knight instantly became the Blackhawks No. 1 goaltending option for the future. While he struggled a bit to post the numbers he had with a better team in front of him in Florida, Knight was still night and day better than any other current options in the Blackhawks system. He looked fundamentally sound and stole a couple of games for the Hawks down the stretch with solid goaltending. Very excited about Knight's future.

Ron Luce's Grade: B+

The glove was at times a problem for Spencer Knight when teams could get off quality shots, but holy smokes was this guy good. Still incredibly young, Knight looks like the future for the Blackhawks in net. He's going to continue getting better, and as the defense in front of him improves, so will he. He was really good this season in limited time with the Hawks and I still believe my grade reflects that, despite the lower grade in comparison to my co-hosts.

What's On Tap Next?

Spencer Knight has one more season remaining on his current contract, but should be a priority with names like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar for long-term extensions. For now, he will look to cement himself as they guy in net for the Blackhawks moving forward. 

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Spencer Knight? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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