Ilya Mikheyev's Future with Blackhawks Uncertain as Trade Deadline Approaches

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Ilya Mikheyev has become a hot commodity ahead of the NHL trade deadline, with the Chicago Blackhawks facing tough decisions on the 28-year-old winger's future. Mikheyev, who has 11 goals and 23 points this season, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after 2025-26 and carries a $4.75 million cap hit, making him an attractive 'help now, no long commitment' option for contending teams. The Montreal Canadiens and Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly the two teams generating the most buzz as potential landing spots if the Blackhawks decide to move Mikheyev.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks' struggles this season have forced them to consider tough roster decisions, and Mikheyev's contract status and trade value make him a prime candidate to be moved at the deadline. His departure could provide the team with assets to aid their rebuild, but it would also mean losing a reliable two-way forward who has been a steady presence on the penalty kill.

The details

Mikheyev, 28, has 11 goals and 23 points in 57 games for the Blackhawks this season. His combination of defensive responsibility, penalty-killing ability, and respectable offensive production make him an appealing target for contending teams looking to add depth. The Canadiens could use Mikheyev to bolster their bottom-six and shorthanded units, while the Hurricanes' up-tempo style would complement Mikheyev's straight-line game. The Blackhawks hold leverage, as multiple playoff teams are likely to express interest in Mikheyev, and retaining some of his $4.75 million cap hit could facilitate a trade.

• Mikheyev is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season.

What’s next

The Blackhawks will need to decide in the coming weeks whether to trade Mikheyev ahead of the NHL trade deadline or potentially look to sign him to a contract extension.