The Chicago Blackhawks have yet to lock up 23-year-old defenseman Wyatt Kaiser with a contract extension, leaving some uncertainty about his long-term role.
Kaiser, who just wrapped up his three-year, $2.75 million entry-level deal, suited up in 57 games last season and now has 98 NHL appearances under his belt, tallying four goals and 14 assists.
Although Chicago issued a qualifying offer and is still expected to finalize a deal, nothing has been signed.
The holdup stems from the Blackhawks’ crowded blue line, with NHL insider Frank Seravalli noting they may have nine or ten NHL-ready defensemen in camp.
While he didn’t single out Kaiser as a trade candidate, the numbers suggest somebody will be squeezed out.
Moving Kaiser, however, would be premature. Despite some inconsistency, he has the upside to develop into a top-four defender, and with Chicago not in playoff contention this season, this is the perfect time to give him an extended audition.
Connor Murphy
A more logical trade chip could be veteran Connor Murphy, who carries a $4.4 million cap hit in the final year of his contract and could bring back a useful asset if dealt.
For now, Kaiser is projected to skate on the second pairing alongside Artyom Levshunov when the Blackhawks open the 2025-26 season on Oct.
7 against the Florida Panthers—and there’s little reason to expect otherwise.
