3 centers the Chicago Blackhawks could target in free agency

Elias Lindholm

The Blackhawks will be looking to sign quality NHL players in free agency that won't cause large cap concerns later on when the young players are ready for their second contracts. Elias Lindholm could be just the player they are looking for.

Lindholm is coming off a down season where he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks from the Calgary Flames, his season ending in a Western Conference Semifinals loss to the Edmonton Oilers. With 44 points scored in 75 games between Vancouver and Calgary, Lindholm's 2023-24 campaign is not the standard for his play.

In his previous season with Calgary, Lindholm finished with 22 goals and 64 points, which was a dip in production from his 42 goal and 82 point season in 2021-22.

The 29-year-old centerman is coming off a strong playoff performance with Vancouver with 10 points in 13 games. He is a strong two-way player who can contribute well on offense, as shown by his strong seasons in Calgary. His high hockey IQ would compliment the Blackhawks' young players well and give the team a consistent presence down the middle. It is also worth noting that Lindholm can also play the wing, which is common amongst many Blackhawks forwards.

Lindholm is coming off a contract where he was making $4.85 million per season, and he will likely get a raise in free agency. At 29 years old, he is still in his prime and could command a deal of four or more seasons. If the Blackhawks target Lindholm, he can be a big part of the team going forward.