Spencer Knight gets security, Blackhawks get time

The Chicago Blackhawks have extended goaltender Spencer Knight. The team announced a three-year contract extension, with a $5.83 AAV. The 23-year-old netminder is locked up through the 2029-30 season.

“After joining the team in March, Spencer quickly cemented himself as a crucial piece of our future,” general manager Kyle Davidson said in an official statement. “A talented, young goaltender, he brings athleticism, sound positioning, and a calm demeanor to his game, and we’re excited to watch Spencer continue to flourish in Chicago over the next four seasons.”

Spencer Knight Given Runway to be Franchise Goalie

Knight was acquired with a first-round pick from the Florida Panthers last March for defenseman Seth Jones. He became a quick fan-favorite by making 41 saves in his debut, helping the Blackhawks beat the Los Angeles Kings 5-1 on March 3. He made 15 starts for the Blackhawks last season, going 5-8-2 with a 3.18 goals-against average and .893 save percentage.

Some might be surprised that Knight only got a three-year extension, especially after the Calgary Flames locked up Dustin Wolf for seven years. The three-year term helps out both sides. Knight gets four years of security and plenty of time to cement himself with the young core developing in Chicago. He will also hit unrestricted free agency for the first time at 28, hopefully, the prime of his career. If everything goes well, he’ll cash in when contracts should be at an all-time high.

The Blackhawks still have Drew Commesso and Adam Gajan, two second-round picks, progressing through the system. The shorter term for Knights gives the organization more time to see what both of the young netminders can bring. Commesso had a very strong finish with the Rockford IceHogs last season, but needs to carry that into a full American Hockey League season.

You can never have too much goaltending. When Davidson took over as general manager in 2022, goaltending was a glaring weakness within the organization. Now, it looks like a position of strength with plenty of options if things go awry for a prospect.