Blackhawks Trade Seth Jones in Blockbuster Move

With the Blackhawks reportedly retaining 25% of Jones' contract, they will be on the hook for $2.5 million of his contract through the 2029-30 season. With the salary cap expected to continue rising, that number should look smaller each season. 

Chicago is reportedly receiving a 2026 first round pick from Florida along with 23-year-old goalie Spencer Knight in exchange for Jones and a 2026 fourth round pick. 

The first-rounder for next season figures to be towards the end of the round, as Florida defends the Stanley Cup title and are likely to continue their high level of play. 

Goaltender Spencer Knight is the intriguing entity here, as Chicago has been searching for consistent goaltending since Corey Crawford's retirement. Knight is signed through 2025-26 with an AAV of $4.5 million. He will be a restricted free agent after 2026. 

The 23-year-old American-born goaltender figures to get more playing time in Chicago. Knight was Sergei Bobrovsky's backup in Florida. In 23 games this season, Knight posted a 2.40 GAA and .907 save percentage. He was also a first round pick of the Panthers in 2019. 

As for Jones, this will be the fresh start that the veteran defenseman desperately needed. He will go to a Stanley Cup contender for the first time in his career. Jones is a polarizing player for Chicago fans, as many felt he was not worthy of his hefty contract. 

Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson moved quickly on Jones' unofficial trade request and appears to have gotten good value for a player he certainly isn't selling high on. The question now will move to what Chicago does with their suddenly crowded goaltender room.