The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is fast approaching, and the Chicago Blackhawks face a critical decision. Discover why trading veteran winger Andre Burakovsky is the smartest move for Chicago’s rebuild and how it could maximize their assets for the future.
As the calendar turns to late February 2026, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves in a familiar yet frustrating position. Despite a breakout year from goaltender Spencer Knight and flashes of brilliance from a healthy Connor Bedard, the team remains on the outside of the playoff picture. With the March 6 deadline looming, General Manager Kyle Davidson must decide which veterans stay and which are moved to fuel the next phase of the rebuild. While several names are swirling in the rumor mill, one player stands out as the ultimate trade chip: Andre Burakovsky.
Chicago Blackhawks 2026 Trade Deadline Profile
| Feature | Details |
| Primary Trade Target | Andre Burakovsky (LW/RW) |
| Current Contract | $5.5M AAV (Expires 2027) |
| 2025-26 Stats | 10 Goals, 20 Assists, 30 Points (51 GP) |
| Key Asset | Two-time Stanley Cup Champion experience |
| Trade Deadline Date | March 6, 2026 |
The Resurgence of Burakovsky in the Windy City
When the Blackhawks acquired Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken last summer, it was viewed as a low-risk “bet on upside.” After a few injury-plagued seasons in the Pacific Northwest, the 31-year-old Swede has largely delivered in Chicago. Playing primarily in a top-six role alongside Ryan Greene and Connor Bedard, Burakovsky has regained his scoring touch, currently sitting on 30 points through 51 games.
His offensive instincts remain elite. He currently ranks second among all Blackhawks forwards in expected goals per 60 minutes, proving that his underlying numbers match the eye test. For a contending team looking for middle-six scoring depth, a rejuvenated Andre Burakovsky is exactly the type of weapon that can tip the scales in a seven-game playoff series.
Maximizing Value with Salary Retention
The biggest hurdle in moving a veteran like Andre Burakovsky is his $5.5 million cap hit. However, the Blackhawks are in a unique position of financial strength. With only one of their three salary retention slots currently occupied (by Seth Jones), Chicago can easily afford to retain 50% of Burakovsky’s salary.
If Davidson agrees to eat half the contract, Burakovsky becomes a $2.75 million player. At that price point, nearly every contender in the league can fit him under their cap. By weaponizing their cap space, the Blackhawks can drive up the asking price, potentially turning a mid-round pick into a second-rounder or a high-end prospect. Because he is signed through 2027, the acquiring team isn’t just getting a “rental”—they are getting a proven winner for two playoff runs.
Defensive Liabilities and the Youth Movement
While Burakovsky’s offense has been a bright spot, his defensive metrics tell a different story. He currently leads Blackhawks forwards in goals allowed per 60 minutes. In a system managed by Jeff Blashill, which prioritizes progress and structure, Burakovsky’s defensive lapses are increasingly noticeable.
More importantly, the Blackhawks’ pipeline is overflowing with young talent. Prospects like Anton Frondell are knocking on the door, and veterans with term like Tyler Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen are already occupying long-term spots. Moving Andre Burakovsky now clears a path for the “Next Wave” of Chicago stars to get meaningful NHL minutes in the final stretch of the 2025-26 season.
Comparing Burakovsky to Other Trade Candidates
The Blackhawks have other potential targets, most notably defenseman Connor Murphy. However, Murphy’s value is stable as a reliable defensive specialist. Andre Burakovsky, on the other hand, is enjoying a “peak value” moment. His health has held up, his scoring is back to 2021-22 levels, and the market for scoring wingers is notoriously thin this season.
Waiting until the summer or next year’s deadline risks another injury or a dip in production. By pulling the trigger on an Andre Burakovsky trade now, the Blackhawks ensure they sell high on a veteran who likely won’t be part of the roster when the team is truly ready to compete for a Cup in 2028 or 2029.
Conclusion
The Chicago Blackhawks have made undeniable strides this season, but they are still a few pieces away from being a powerhouse. Trading Andre Burakovsky isn’t an indictment of his play; rather, it’s a calculated move to maximize the team’s long-term ceiling. With his championship pedigree, current scoring pace, and the possibility of 50% salary retention, Andre Burakovsky is the most valuable asset Kyle Davidson has to move before March 6. It’s time for the Blackhawks to turn today’s veteran production into tomorrow’s championship core.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline?
The deadline is officially set for March 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. ET.
2. What is Andre Burakovsky’s current contract status?
He is signed through the 2026-27 season with a cap hit of $5.5 million per year.
3. Why would a team want Burakovsky if his defense is poor?
Contending teams often prioritize “secondary scoring” at the deadline. His ability to produce on the power play and in the top six outweighs defensive concerns for teams with strong defensive systems.
4. How much of Burakovsky’s salary can the Blackhawks keep?
Under NHL rules, the Blackhawks can retain up to 50% of his salary, bringing his cap hit down to $2.75 million for an acquiring team.
5. Are there any other Blackhawks players likely to be traded?
Defenseman Connor Murphy is a frequent name in trade rumors, and pending free agents like Jason Dickinson or Ilya Mikheyev could also be on the move.
