The Chicago Blackhawks decided to make a change in net. After having acquired Spencer Knight earlier in trade deadline season, it made their goalkeeper Petr Mrazek expendable. Therefore, it made sense for Hawk general manager Kyle Davidson to make this move. Along with Mrazek, the Blackhawks sent Craig Smith to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for forward Joe Veleno.
Hawks Goaltender Petr Mrazek Involved in Trade Today
UPDATE: The #RedWings have acquired forward Craig Smith and goaltender Petr Mrazek from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Joe Veleno. pic.twitter.com/XV7DsaRMtq
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) March 7, 2025
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Petr Mrazek is well-beyond 400 career games in the NHL. He is quite a seasoned vet, and will provide excellent back up abilities for his new team. Moreover, three times in his NHL career he played in 50 or more games. This season he has still been consistent, at 10-19-2, he has a 3.46 GAA and an .890 SV%. For comparison, his career point percentage is .505 and save percentage is .906, so it is a by-product of the team in front of him. Mrazek has proven throughout his career he can get it done.
In Veleno, the Blackhawks are getting young depth forward who can play up and down the lineup as needed. He hasn’t really lived up to his potential prior to being drafted. However, at 25 a change of scenery might be just what the doctor ordered. In 56 games this season, Veleno has registered five goals and 10 points.
Why this was the Right Move
It makes sense for the Hawks to gain assets for Mrazek. He is an upcoming unrestricted free agent. Furthermore, after having already picked up Knight from the Panthers in the Seth Jones deal, the Hawks could shop Mrazek to the highest bidder. No pressure, but just who wants a competent NHL goaltender on their depth charts.
With Knight in the Hawks organization now, along with Arvid Soderblom, it means the Hawks have the goaltenders to grow with the rest of the core group. Mrazek was nice for a bit of veteran leadership, but ultimately, the Hawks won’t miss his potential upside of being a playoff performer.
Main Photo Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
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