If the Blackhawks do not bring back Matt Grzelcyk, these two teams could target him during the summer.
The Chicago Blackhawks are entering the off-season with multiple pending free agents. Matt Grzelcyk is among them, as the 32-year-old defenseman is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
Grzelcyk was a decent veteran blueliner for the Blackhawks this season, as he recorded 12 assists in 69 games and was a good mentor for their younger players. Yet, with the Blackhawks' blueline being crowded, it is possible that Chicago will move on from the 10-year veteran.
Due to this, let's look at three teams that could target Grzelcyk if he hits the free agent market this summer.
Pittsburgh Penguins
It would not be particularly surprising if the Penguins considered reuniting with Grzelcyk this off-season. The Charlestown, Massachusetts native had the best season of his NHL career with Pittsburgh in 2024-25, as he set career highs with 39 assists and 40 points. With this, the possibility of the Penguins targeting Grzelcyk this off-season should not be ruled out.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks need to add to their defensive depth badly this off-season. They are entering the summer with several pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) defensemen. Due to this, they could be a team to keep an eye on when it comes to Grzelcyk. He could fit on their bottom pairing and could be a good mentor for the Sharks' young players if brought in.