Penguins Joins Blackhawks on Professional Tryout
Former Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Matt Grzelcyk has accepted a professional tryout (PTO) with the Chicago Blackhawks.
The team unveiled its training camp roster on Tuesday, and Canadian broadcaster Sportsnet confirmed the veteran’s agreement to join the camp.
Matt Grzelcyk
Opportunity to Earn a Full NHL Contract
A PTO allows a player to showcase his skills and earn a standard contract if his preseason performance convinces management that he deserves a spot on the roster. Grzelcyk will use the camp to prove he can strengthen Chicago’s blue line.
Matt Grzelcyk
Impressive 2024–25 Season in Pittsburgh
Despite remaining a free agent for most of the offseason, the 31-year-old is coming off a standout year with the Penguins. Signed to a one-year, $2.75 million deal in July 2024, the 5-foot-10, 180-pound defenseman appeared in all 82 games, collecting 40 points—one goal and 39 assists—while logging an average of 20:37 in ice time.
Matt Grzelcyk
Key Contributor on the Power Play
Much of his offensive success came with the man advantage. As part of Pittsburgh’s top power-play unit, Grzelcyk registered a team-high 15 assists, demonstrating his value as a puck-moving defenseman.
Matt Grzelcyk
Penguins’ Roster Moves Continue
With Grzelcyk moving on to Chicago’s camp, only forward Matt Nieto remains without a contract from last season’s Penguins roster, still searching for a deal in the NHL, AHL, or in European leagues.
A Chance to Revive His NHL Career
The tryout provides Grzelcyk with a prime opportunity to secure another NHL contract and bring his proven offensive touch and veteran presence to a Blackhawks team seeking experienced depth on defense.
