Sam Lafferty, Taylor Raddysh Depart Blackhawks for New Destinations

Kyle Davidson made it very clear that the roster was going to look much different, especially at the forward positions. With only two players receiving qualifying offers from the Chicago Blackhawks, all others were destined for free agency. Joey Anderson re-signed with the team despite not receiving a QO, but everyone else hit free agency. 

As a result, two forwards have already signed with new teams. Per reports, Sam Lafferty has signed a two-year deal with the Buffalo Sabres, and Taylor Raddysh has signed in Washington with the Capitals. 

Lafferty's contract is for $2 million AAV with the Sabres. There were reportedly discussions between the Hawks and Lafferty after acquiring his rights in the Ilya Mikheyev trade, but nothing materialized. Instead, he moves on to serve as depth in Buffalo. 

As for Raddysh, the young winger posted 20 goals in 2022-23, but fell flat on his face in 2023-24 with only five goals. Expected to be a potential piece of the top-six for years to come, Raddysh is instead moving on to his third NHL franchise. The details for his contract are still unknown. 

Whether or not the Blackhawks add anything else remains to be seen. However, there will be plenty of names moving on from last year's Hawks team.