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5 Blackhawks Who Won't Return Next Season

Now that the NHL regular season is over, Chicago Blackhawks fans shouldn't expect to see these five players back on the 2024-25 roster.

By Devon Platana

Tyler Johnson is one of five Blackhawks who likely won't return for the 2024-25 NHL season.
Tyler Johnson is one of five Blackhawks who likely won't return for the 2024-25 NHL season. / Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports
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3. C/W Colin Blackwell

Colin Blackwell is another pending UFA that the Blackhawks must address during the NHL offseason.

Blackwell's 2023-24 campaign has been interesting to watch. The 31-year-old veteran didn't make his season debut until the middle of December due to complications regarding a sports hernia surgery he underwent about nine months before that. Although it took some time to return to form, he's been decent for the most part, registering 12 points in 43 games as of April 17.

Blackwell's never-say-die style of play has resulted in his becoming a Chicago fan favorite, but that doesn't mean his future in the Windy City is secure. Again, he's going to become a free agent in a few months and there's a good chance that he'll attract some suitors who want to improve their bottom two lines.

And although Blackwell has made it clear that he loves playing with the Blackhawks, the team could always opt to not re-sign him. Let's not forget that the Lawrence, MA native was involved in rumors ahead of the trade deadline, meaning Chicago could potentially be open to a future without him.

I wouldn't mind seeing Blackwell returning on a cheap two-year contract, but I won't hold my breath. The NHL is an ever-changing business and there's always a chance that Blackwell will play elsewhere until he puts pen to paper.

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