The Chicago Blackhawks face another summer trying to add experienced depth to accelerate their rebuilding process.
Hawks GM Kyle Davidson has a projected cap space of $31.9 million for next season with 19 roster players under contract. The Athletic's Mark Lazerus wondered if Davidson might attempt to free up more space by buying out left winger Tyler Bertuzzi and defenseman TJ Brodie.
Bertuzzi, 30, has three years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $5.5 million. The 34-year-old Brodie has a year remaining at $3.75 million.
The Blackhawks have the cap room to absorb the buyout hit of both players, but they could keep Bertuzzi. He's got 20 goals and 41 points with the Blackhawks this season, which is comparable to what he scored with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2023-24.
Brodie, on the other hand, is the more likely buyout candidate. He struggled this season, becoming a healthy scratch since March 3.
Lazerus also believes there's a good chance the Blackhawks will re-sign Ryan Donato. The versatile 28-year-old is enjoying a career-best performance with 25 goals and 55 points in 70 games. He can also play at left wing or center.
Scott Powers reported Donato has had a three-year contract offer on the table from the Blackhawks since the trade deadline worth $4 million per season. He's currently averaging $2 million per season on a two-year deal. Talks don't appear to be ongoing, but Powers suggests that could change between now and the start of free agency on July 1.
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Meanwhile, we can add the San Jose Sharks to the list of teams likely to be in the market for a goaltender this summer.
Curtis Pashelka of The Mercury News observed the rebuilding Sharks need an upgrade between the pipes and to improve their defensive play. Their goals against per game is a league-worst 3.64, while their save percentage (.890) is the third-worst.
Pashelka noted that Yaroslav Askarov is the only Sharks goalie under contract for next season. Alexandar Georgiev is slated to become a UFA, while rookie Georgi Romanov is an RFA with arbitration rights.
Askarov could take over the starter's job next season, but the young netminder would benefit from having an experienced backup to help him shoulder the load. Jake Allen of the New Jersey Devils, Dan Vladar of the Calgary Flames and David Rittich of the Los Angeles Kings could be available when free agency begins on July 1.
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