Blackhawks Secure Goaltender Petr Mrazek with Two-Year Contract Extension
In a move
aimed at solidifying their goaltending position, the Chicago Blackhawks have
officially announced a two-year contract extension with veteran goaltender Petr
Mrazek. The new deal will keep Mrazek with the Blackhawks through the 2025-26
NHL season and comes with a salary-cap hit of $4.25 million.
Mrazek,
currently 12-17-1 with a .907 save percentage and a 3.01 goals-against average,
has been a consistent presence for the Blackhawks this season. His performance
has been noteworthy, especially in light of the team's rebuilding phase. The
goaltender expressed his satisfaction with his role and highlighted the
positive atmosphere within the team.
“It’s
something that we’re trying to change here, the culture and everything, and
it’s been fun for me, playing every night and being healthy, feeling good about
yourself, and having good games. It definitely helps,” Mrazek commented. “But
No. 1 thing for me is to turn things around here as a team and start winning
games soon.”
The
Blackhawks, currently in a rebuilding phase, have been strategic in securing
key players for the future. Mrazek's contract extension follows similar deals
for veteran players Nick Foligno and Jason Dickinson, both signed to two-year
contracts with significant salary-cap hits.
“Going
forward, I think there’s a lot of young guys that can prove themselves and be
in the NHL for a long time and help this franchise to go forward,” Mrazek
remarked. “And we are the ones who are going to try to help them get better and
get where they are supposed to be.”
With these
recent contract extensions, the Blackhawks are signaling a commitment to a
blend of experienced players and emerging talent. The focus appears to be on
fostering a competitive and supportive environment that can contribute to the
team's future success.
The
strategic signing of Mrazek, Foligno, and Dickinson could also impact the
Blackhawks' approach to the upcoming NHL trade deadline. Flush with draft
capital, prospects, and cap space, the team may opt for a quieter deadline,
potentially taking on bad contracts from contending teams in exchange for
further assets.
Petr Mrazek,
who will turn 32 on February 14, joined the Blackhawks in a trade with Toronto
in July 2022. In his first season with the team, Mrazek posted a 10-22-3 record
with a 3.66 goals-against average and an .894 save percentage. The goaltender
has been praised for his resilience, overcoming injury troubles from the
previous season and contributing to the team's recent performances.
“I think
last year he had a little bit of injury trouble, and he corrected that,” noted
coach Luke Richardson. “He had a great finish last year for us, and this year
he’s been great. He came in in great shape. I think we’re trying to manage his
load so he doesn’t get overworked, but the schedule’s worked out fine for him
and he’s played great.”
Mrazek's
extensive experience, having made his NHL debut with Detroit in 2013, adds
valuable depth to the Blackhawks' goaltending corps. As the team navigates its
rebuilding phase, the goaltender's leadership and performance on the ice are
expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future trajectory of the
franchise.
