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Chicago Blackhawks may soon find themselves holding one of the NHL’s more intriguing trade assets, as veteran goaltender Laurent Brossoit moves closer to returning to competitive action. With the market for reliable goalies tighter than ever, Chicago’s situation could quickly turn into a valuable opportunity as teams reassess their depth heading into the second half of the season.
Brossoit set for conditioning stint as return nears
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Brossoit is finally on the verge of getting back into game shape after a long recovery. In the November 29 edition of Saturday Headlines, Friedman revealed that the 31-year-old netminder is slated for an AHL conditioning stint as early as next week.
Friedman noted, “Laurent Brossoit is coming back. He’s going to play next week in the American Hockey League on a conditioning stint. He’s a member of the Chicago Blackhawks. He hasn’t played in a year and a half. He got hurt in the 2024 playoffs and hasn’t played since.”
After suffering a significant injury during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs while with the Winnipeg Jets—and subsequently missing the entire following season—Laurent Brossoit signed a two-year, $6.6 million deal with Chicago. Now, as he inches closer to full health, Chicago Blackhawks face a roster and cap situation that leaves them with little room for another goaltender.
Blackhawks grant teams permission to speak with Laurent Brossoit
Instead of forcing a difficult goaltending logjam, Chicago appears ready to leverage their veteran’s return into a potential trade. Friedman confirmed the organization has already opened the door for interested teams.
He added, “The Blackhawks have given teams permission to talk to him, so you can understand what his situation is, what the exact surgery was, what the process is back. And the Blackhawks don’t really have room for him.”
With Brossoit carrying a $3.3 million cap hit, not every team can absorb the cost outright. Still, with several playoff-hopeful teams struggling between the pipes, interested suitors are expected.
A tight goalie market increases Brossoit’s trade appeal
Though Brossoit may not be seen as a game-changing franchise goalie, the market conditions significantly elevate his value. Several teams—including the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, and Edmonton Oilers—are reportedly evaluating their depth options and could be motivated to strike before their situations worsen.
Detroit’s inconsistent goaltending tandem and Edmonton's ongoing search for stability make them particularly plausible landing spots. As pressure mounts on teams with postseason ambitions, Brossoit’s experience and previous playoff performance could make him an attractive insurance option.
What return Chicago Blackhawks can command remains uncertain, but given the scarcity of available veteran goaltenders, Chicago is positioned well. A clean bill of health could quickly turn Laurent Brossoit into one of the most talked-about trade targets as the season progresses.
Chicago Blackhawks’ calculated approach could pay off
For a team continuing its rebuild, maximizing value from every roster move is crucial. With Brossoit’s return set to draw league-wide attention, Chicago may soon capitalize on perfect timing: a recovering veteran, a tight goalie market, and multiple teams desperate for depth.
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