Photo credit: Chicago Tribune
Chicago Blackhawks prepare to bid farewell to Tyler Johnson and Taylor Raddysh.
As the NHL free agency looms, the Chicago Blackhawks are poised to see yet another forward exit, with Tyler Johnson set to explore new horizons.
Johnson, formerly of the Tampa Bay Lightning, will be followed by Taylor Raddysh, a significant piece acquired during the Brandon Hagel trade to Tampa Bay.
The 2022-2023 season marked a career peak for Raddysh with the Blackhawks, netting 20 goals.
However, despite his hopes and stated desire to remain in Chicago, Raddysh has not been able to replicate his performance this season and will enter free agency on July 1st.
« Taylor Raddysh will be a UFA. He’s a defensive third line-ish winger. #Blackhawks »
Taylor Raddysh will be a UFA. He’s a defensive third line-ish winger. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/epKncO0V1K
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 30, 2024
« Sounds like Taylor Raddysh will NOT receive a qualifying offer from the Blackhawks. Deadline for those is today at 4pm CT. »
Sounds like Taylor Raddysh will NOT receive a qualifying offer from the Blackhawks. Deadline for those is today at 4pm CT. https://t.co/Q6dOYwE8Bw
— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) June 30, 2024
Over the course of this season, Raddysh played in 73 games, amassing a total of 14 points with 5 goals and 9 assists. His role evolved into that of a defensive forward, prominently featuring in penalty-killing situations.
This added versatility makes him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their lineup with a defensively reliable winger.
The transition might just be the catalyst Raddysh needs to rediscover the offensive prowess he showcased in the previous season, which earned him 37 points.
As he prepares to don a new jersey, the change of scenery could indeed reignite his scoring touch, making him a player to watch in the upcoming season.