5 best bargain forwards the Blackhawks can target in free agency

Tomas Tatar is a name that should draw interest

Another older player, but one who has bounced around the league, Tomas Tatar looks as though he’s on the downside of what has been a long NHL career. Clearly, you can see a theme brewing among the final three names on this list, as Kyle Okposo, Cal Clutterbuck, and Tatar would all bring experience and another dose of leadership. However, since he will be just 34 when the 2024-25 season begins and likely won’t cost much, Tatar makes for an epic consolation should Okposo and Clutterbuck retire or sign elsewhere.

Also, like Okposo and Clutterbuck, he’s not somebody you would consider a great player. Tatar has never won a Stanley Cup, but he’s been part of several playoff teams, and he was even with that 2021 Montreal Canadiens team that surprised everyone when they made a run at the Stanley Cup. 

Tatar has played for organizations that have defied the odds, and it’s something the Blackhawks would look to do next season. He’s another bargain free agent Chicago would only sign to a one-year deal, but once again, he would be in town to provide leadership and to fill the lower lines, something the Hawks could use. 

(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)