Blackhawks Could Fetch High Return by Trading Veteran Winger Burakovsky

Chicago should look to maximize value from Burakovsky ahead of 2026 NHL Trade Deadline

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Chicago Blackhawks are unlikely to make the playoffs this season, and the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline on March 6th represents their last chance to sell off veteran assets and add draft capital. One player the Blackhawks should strongly consider trading is 31-year-old winger Andre Burakovsky, who is having a solid season but doesn't fit the team's long-term timeline. By retaining up to 50% of Burakovsky's $5.5 million salary, the Blackhawks could make him an attractive trade target for contending teams in need of offensive help on the wing.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks are in a rebuilding phase and need to prioritize acquiring future assets like draft picks. Burakovsky is an impending free agent after next season, so trading him now could net the team a valuable return from a contender looking to bolster their roster for a playoff push. This type of strategic move could help accelerate Chicago's rebuild.

The details

Burakovsky has matched his goal total from last season and is on pace for 46 points, which would be his best output since 2021-22. While he struggles defensively, his offensive production makes him an appealing trade target. By retaining half of his $5.5 million cap hit, the Blackhawks could make Burakovsky's contract more palatable for teams looking to add scoring depth without taking on too much salary.

  • The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is on March 6th, 2026.
  • Burakovsky is signed through the 2023-24 season.

The players

Andre Burakovsky

A 31-year-old veteran winger currently playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, who acquired him in a trade from the Seattle Kraken last summer.

Jeff Blashill

The current head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, tasked with guiding the team's rebuild and returning them to the playoffs.

Connor Murphy

A pending free agent defenseman for the Blackhawks who could also be a trade candidate ahead of the deadline.

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What’s next

The Blackhawks will need to decide in the coming weeks whether to trade Burakovsky ahead of the March 6th trade deadline. If they opt to retain 50% of his salary, they could maximize the return they receive from a contending team in need of offensive help on the wing.

The takeaway

By trading the veteran Burakovsky, who doesn't fit the Blackhawks' long-term timeline, Chicago can acquire valuable draft capital to aid their ongoing rebuild. This type of strategic move could help accelerate the team's return to playoff contention in the coming seasons.