Avalanche divisional rival's dream of landing superstar winger becoming real possibility
Photo credit: Jamie Sabau / Imagn Images
The Chicago Blackhawks, longtime divisional rivals of the Colorado Avalanche, are now entering as serious contenders to land superstar winger Kirill Kaprizov, turning what was once a dream into a genuine possibility.
Kaprizov has reportedly turned down a $128 million contract offer from the Wild.
Blackhawks eyeing Kirill Kaprizov in potential blockbuster signing.
Jackson Weber from The Sporting News writes that insider Mark Lazerus reports that Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson and his front office have long dreamed of landing Kaprizov in the 2026 free agency.
Given how talks have been unfolding in Minnesota, that dream now feels more attainable than ever. Lazerus' comments were shared on X by OviClapBomb.
"Last summer, the Hawks were like, 'What would be the dream scenario?' Kaprizov hitting free agency just when they're ready to turn the corner, and that's the guy they can go throw all the money at. It was a different time, and that was their best-case scenario." -Lazerus
The 28-year-old winger is entering the final year of the five-year, $45 million extension he signed with Minnesota in 2021. Insider Frank Seravalli reported Wednesday that Kaprizov turned down a record-breaking eight-year, $128 million extension from the Wild, fuelling speculation about his future with the team.
Kaprizov would change everything for the Hawks
"Could you imagine a Kirill Kaprizov-Connor Bedard duo for the next decade? That is how you turn things around in Chicago. Kaprizov is obviously looking for massive money, having turned down $16 million from the Wild. The good thing is, cap space is a weapon for the Blackhawks, who are slated to have more than $63 million at their disposal next offseason." -Weber
The Blackhawks will need on-ice progress in 2025-26 to convince Kaprizov, though rumours suggest he's already intrigued by Chicago.
The situation remains fluid and could shift at any time, but if Kaprizov becomes available through trade or free agency, expect the Blackhawks to be among the teams most heavily pursuing him.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 16 | 24 ANSWERS Avalanche divisional rival's dream of landing superstar winger becoming real possibility Do you think Kaprizov will be traded before the start of the upcoming NHL season? | ||
| yes | 6 | 25 % |
| no | 18 | 75 % |
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