The Chicago Blackhawks were never likely to get aggressive in free agency this year. They're focused on continuing to develop their young core, recently bolstered by their three new 1st round picks. However, GM Kyle Davidson isn't naive. He understands that his team still needs more depth and experience in key places. The tough part is finding in. Situations like this often see organizations bringing in familiar faces. Players they know and trust. Sure enough, Davidson found a solution he thinks will help.
On Tuesday, Chicago agreed with the Buffalo Sabres to trade a 6th round pick in exchange for veteran forward Sam Lafferty. This marks the third time he will play for the Blackhawks, having played just over a full season with the franchise from 2021 to 2023. He scored 15 goals with 17 assists in 97 games during that time. His key strengths aren't his offensive prowess. Chicago likely wants him for his physical play style, strong defensive ability (especially on penalty kills), and skating speed.
The Chicago Blackhawks are sticking to their plan.
Every move made this offseason has indicated the team wants to get tougher and more physical. Each of their 1st round picks, including Anton Frondell, fit that profile. Lafferty won't stand out on the stat sheet, but he plays a brand of hockey the Chicago Blackhawks have lacked for some time. They need more guys who are willing to slug it out with tough teams. Lafferty has no such qualms. He gives them some much-needed depth in the bottom six. His previous experience of playing in Chicago means it won't be a long adjustment period. He alone won't make them a sudden playoff contender, but there is no doubt he is a nice piece to help in that pursuit. It will be interesting to see what else the Blackhawks try as free agency unfolds.
