Blackhawks sign defenseman Matt Grzelcyk

According to reports by both Scott Powers of The Athletic and Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Chicago Blackhawks are signing defenseman Matt Grzelcyk. The veteran blueliner was brought into training camp on a professional tryout contract (PTO). Powers reported that he’s receiving a one-year deal.

Kyle Davidson Cashes in Insurance Policy

Grzelcyk was brought in as an insurance policy in case of an injury or if one or more of the young defensemen prove they are not ready for the National Hockey League. Ethan Del Mastro and Kevin Korchinski struggled in their preseason games, so general manager Kyle Davidson is cashing in that policy.

We’ll find out later today whether Nolan Allan or Louis Crevier gets the final roster spot. It makes more sense for Crevier to take on that role. Allan sitting out multiple games in the press box would hurt his development more than if Crevier had to do it. Crevier has already established a consistent level of play and has likely hit his ceiling. Whereas Allan still has some growth to do, playing big minutes in Rockford would benefit him. Of course, the Blackhawks can carry eight defensemen, but sitting two guys a night doesn’t make a ton of sense.

Grzelcyk is by far the smallest Blackhawks defenseman at 5’10. He’s coming off a career year with the Pittsburgh Penguins that saw him put up 39 assists and 40 points. The 31-year-old is a veteran of 527 NHL games and has a career plus-137 rating and 53.5 Corsi for percentage (CF%). He’s not a flashy defender by any means, but he won’t be a liability like T.J. Brodie was last season.

If one of the kids in Rockford gets off to a great start and can’t be denied an NHL spot anymore, Grzelcyk can sit. He can also be a trade chip at the deadline to clear another roster spot. He’s a veteran, and he’s aware of the situation he’s entering.

Had Korchinski, Del Mastro, or Allan been spectacular in the preseason, they would have stayed, and Grzelcyk’s agent would be spending the day making phone calls. He’s not blocking anyone; he’s just holding their place.

UPDATE: The Blackhawks have made the signing official: one-year, $1 million.