Evaluating Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson's past free agent signings

Jack Johnson

The former third-overall pick was brought in to bring some stability to a shaky Chicago defense corps in 2022. Johnson was serviceable for 58 games in a Hawks sweater before Davidson dealt him back to Colorado in exchange for Andreas Englund. The defenseman is a classic example of Davidson bringing in a cheap veteran to eat up minutes while younger prospects such as Alex Vlasic matured in Rockford.

Colin Blackwell

A fiery competitor and leader in the locker room, Blackwell inked a two-year deal in the Windy City in July of 2022. Despite a penchant for finding himself on breakaways, Blackwell only tallied 22 points in 97 games for the Hawks. The Harvard product likely won’t be brought back as players like Frank Nazar, Landon Slaggert, and Colton Dach will compete for his spot in the lineup come September.

Ryan Donato

A college teammate of Blackwell’s, Donato joined the Hawks on a two-year, $4 million pact last summer. He proved useful this season as he played up and down the lineup and generated 12 goals and 30 points. At 28, Donato may not be offered an extension and instead end up dealt to a contender at the deadline in March.