With the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaching, Matt Grzelcyk is a top target for contenders. Explore 3 potential trade destinations for the Blackhawks defenseman in this blockbuster rumor update.
The 2026 NHL trade deadline is officially less than a month away, and the Chicago Blackhawks are once again finding themselves in a familiar position: the seller’s market. While the focus in the Windy City has shifted toward the growth of Connor Bedard and the incoming wave of youth, General Manager Kyle Davidson has several valuable veteran assets that could fetch decent returns. Chief among them is mobile defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, whose name has surfaced in high-stakes trade chatter as teams look to fortify their bluelines for a deep playoff run.
Matt Grzelcyk: Trade Value & 2025-26 Season Stats
| Feature | Details |
| Current Team | Chicago Blackhawks |
| Contract Status | Pending UFA ($1.0M Cap Hit) |
| 2025-26 Stats | 12 Points in 57 Games |
| Career High | 40 Points (2024-25 with Penguins) |
| Draft Pedigree | 2012 Round 3 (#85 Overall) |
Why Contenders are Chasing Matt Grzelcyk at the Deadline
The appeal of Matt Grzelcyk in the current trade market is two-fold: mobility and affordability. At a cap hit of just $1 million, he is a “plug-and-play” option for elite teams that are tight against the salary cap. While he may not be a top-pair shutdown defender, his ability to transition the puck and quarterback a second power-play unit makes him a luxury for any contender.
Blackhawks insiders have noted that despite his lower point production this season, his underlying metrics remain solid. In a year where defensive depth is at a premium, Grzelcyk offers a veteran presence with 66 games of playoff experience—something coaches value immensely when the intensity ramps up in May.
1. Pittsburgh Penguins: A Possible Reunion?
The most intriguing destination for Grzelcyk is a return to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Pens have been one of the biggest surprises of the 2025-26 season, defying aging curves to remain in the hunt for the Metropolitan Division title. Last season, Grzelcyk thrived in Pittsburgh, setting career highs with 39 assists and 40 points while playing alongside elite talent.
Adding Matt Grzelcyk back into the mix would provide the Penguins with a familiar face who already understands their system. He would likely slot into the third pairing and provide insurance for the left side of their defense, which has dealt with minor injury bugs throughout the winter.
2. Colorado Avalanche: Adding Speed to the Blueline
The Colorado Avalanche are never shy about adding mobile defensemen, and Matt Grzelcyk fits their identity perfectly. The Avalanche have been linked to Grzelcyk in the past, and with their current power play struggling to find consistency, his puck-moving skills could be the “shake-up” they need.
In Colorado, Matt Grzelcyk wouldn’t be asked to carry heavy minutes. Instead, he could thrive in a specialized role, using his skating to support the Avalanche’s aggressive transition game. With Colorado sitting near the top of the Western Conference, adding a low-cost veteran like Grzelcyk is a low-risk, high-reward move for GM Chris MacFarland.
3. Buffalo Sabres: Fortifying the Bottom Pairing
The Buffalo Sabres are finally in a playoff position, and they are desperate to end their historic postseason drought. While their top four is set with stars like Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, their bottom-pairing depth has been a point of concern. Matt Grzelcyk would provide a significant upgrade over their current depth options.
For Buffalo, acquiring Matt Grzelcyk isn’t just about the on-ice product; it’s about the mentorship. As a player who has spent years in winning cultures like Boston and Pittsburgh, he could help guide the Sabres’ young core through the pressures of a tight playoff race. At a $1 million price tag, he is a sensible target for a Buffalo team looking to make a statement.
Conclusion
As the March 6 deadline looms, the future of Matt Grzelcyk in Chicago seems limited. Whether he returns to the familiar confines of Pittsburgh or helps the Avalanche chase another Cup, his departure will open up crucial roster spots for Chicago’s younger defensive prospects like Sam Rinzel and Ethan Del Mastro. One thing is certain: Matt Grzelcyk has the tools to be a difference-maker for whichever team decides to pull the trigger on a deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Matt Grzelcyk’s current contract?
Matt Grzelcyk is currently on a one-year, $1 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, making him an unrestricted free agent (UFA) this summer.
2. Why are the Blackhawks trading Matt Grzelcyk?
Chicago is in the middle of a rebuild and wants to maximize the value of their expiring veteran contracts while clearing ice time for younger prospects.
3. Has Matt Grzelcyk played in the Olympics?
While a highly skilled American defenseman, Matt Grzelcyk did not make the final cut for the 2026 Team USA Olympic roster, which featured stars like Quinn Hughes and Adam Fox.
4. What would the return be for Matt Grzelcyk?
Given his low cap hit and depth role, the Blackhawks would likely receive a mid-to-late round draft pick or a B-level prospect in return.
5. How many points does Matt Grzelcyk have this season?
As of the Olympic break, Matt Grzelcyk has 12 points in 57 games for the Chicago Blackhawks.
