Which ‘Impact Wingers’ Should the Blackhawks Target?

Some of these options may already be on the roster. Frank Nazar, for example, has spent time both on the wing and as a center. His talent is conducive to a top-six forward, so sticking him as the third-line center doesn’t seem to be the long-term plan.

Going out and getting talent is much more convoluted than the social media GMs make it seem. There has to be a willing suitor with real motives. Whether it’s via trade, offer sheet, or free agency, the team can explore any avenue effectively. If they can’t find anything they like, they may leave the offseason empty-handed yet again. If not, here are some realistic impact wingers the Blackhawks should consider bringing in.

Brady Tkachuk

This option is the most far-fetched, though not entirely impossible. Tkachuk just wrapped up a winless playoff campaign where he severely underperformed. He failed to log a single point and was an overall negative influence on the Senators’ performance.

Many have questioned his commitment to the Senators since the Olympic break. It’s possible that, like the Patriot he seemed to be during the Milan games, Tkachuk would want to play for an American team. If that is the case, the Blackhawks should be all over that possibility. Alongside Bedard and an established Blackhawk like Nick Lardis or Ryan Greene, he would vastly improve the first line.

The main thing Tkachuk provides is productive physicality. After the trade deadline, the team got much younger and less physical. Tkachuk, as impressive as he is as a two-way skill player, would provide a level of grit that the first line simply lacks. He’s willing to drop the gloves too, making him a bodyguard for the young players trying to find their footing.

The trade details would likely make many fans cringe. The Blackhawks would have some trade leverage, assuming Tkachuk wants out, so that may soften the blow. A package including the Blackhawks’ 2028 first-round pick and one of Florida’s or Edmonton’s 2027 first-round picks would be the absolute bare minimum. If the Blackhawks fall below top-2 in the draft, their 2026 first-round pick could be in play as well.

Matthew Knies

Knies and the Blackhawks have been linked for years now. With a new front office in Toronto, the team may look to turn its best young talent into assets. Knies would essentially be a cheaper cap hit version of Tkachuk. He’s a bit less proven as a talent, but he plays with boatloads of grit. He is also more durable compared to Tkachuk, having played in 79 games this season compared to Tkachuk’s 60.

Knies also has some productive playoff stats. In 2024-25, Knies played in 13 playoff games and logged five goals for seven points. The 23-year-old has already played meaningful hockey at a high-level, and he would thrive alongside Bedard or Frondell.

It’s tough to gauge what the return would be like for Knies. Ideally, they could get it done for less than they would with Tkachuk. However, more than likely, it would be a very similar package. The benefit of this trade is just how perfect a trade match the two teams are. Toronto needs draft capital; the Blackhawks have plenty. Depending on the lottery results, Toronto may be without a first-round pick this year. For that reason, the Blackhawks’ own pick may very well be in play, assuming they don’t win the lottery.

Alex Tuch

Assuming he doesn’t sign an extension, Tuch would be the most likely free agency option. Tuch has been a highly reliable winger on the Buffalo Sabres for years now. As a consistent 18+ minutes per night and 60+ points player, he would already be a step up on the first line. With how the Sabres’ season has gone, it wouldn’t be surprising if he re-signs in Buffalo. If not, the Blackhawks should make an aggressive offer.

Tuch was also an early building block for the Golden Knights’ franchise. Between his time there and with the Sabres, the Blackhawks would be bringing in a consistent veteran with true talent and experience. At 29 years old, the Blackhawks will have to be cautious in approaching negotiations with Tuch. He very well could be looking for a seven-year deal, which, at the right price, would be more than worth it.

Other Impact Wingers

Several names have floated around the Blackhawks’ rumor mill. Auston Matthews, although not a winger, would be a historic trade that would shake up the team’s future. Robert Thomas has also been mentioned, considering the Blues’ status in playoff limbo. His tremendous two-way game and reasonable cap hit would make him a great option if the Blackhawks can put together a package.

Ultimately, the term ‘impact’ is an interesting one. It could mean that they are looking to make an offseason-defining trade or signing. It could also mean that they want to grab established, consistent players that only slightly improve the ceiling of the team. Either way, the Blackhawks can take several avenues to find these impact wingers in question.