Divisional rivals set sights on former Avalanche first-round star in shocking new development
Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing / Imagn Images
The Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly targeting former Colorado Avalanche first-round star Casey Mittelstadt in a surprising new trade proposal that could shake up the Central Division.
After signing Frank Nazar to a massive contract extension, the Chicago Blackhawks appear poised to continue making bold moves as they prepare for next season.
Blackhawks close in on former Avalanche first-round star Casey Mittelstadt.
Tristan McKinstry from Heavy.com writes that the Blackhawks are looking to make significant strides in the 2025-26 season.
Last year was a struggle, with Connor Bedard and the team failing to meet expectations. Head coach Luke Richardson was fired, and overall, the Blackhawks appeared to take a step back in their rebuild.
"The Blackhawks need to supply Blashill and Bedard with more. The new Chicago bench boss certainly gets on well with younger players. But they need some established talent to help this team potentially take that next step." -McKinstry
With that context, McKinstry is suggesting the following trade between the Blackhawks and their Original Six rival, the Boston Bruins.
The proposed deal would send Casey Mittelstadt to the Bruins in exchange for Lukas Reichel and a 2026 second-round pick.
"It's been a wild few seasons for Mittelstadt. The former first-overall pick emerged as a top-six center for the Buffalo Sabres a few years back. However, Buffalo was going nowhere fast. And they elected to trade Mittelstadt to the Colorado Avalanche at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline.
Mittelstadt showed flashes of what made him a promising talent in Buffalo. At the same time, he never took the leap to become a true second-line center on a contending team. For whatever reason, he couldn't find consistency with the Avalanche." -McKinstry
Mittelstadt showed flashes of what made him a promising talent in Buffalo. At the same time, he never took the leap to become a true second-line center on a contending team. For whatever reason, he couldn't find consistency with the Avalanche." -McKinstry
At the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, Colorado decided to move on from Mittelstadt, trading him to the Bruins in exchange for Charlie Coyle. In 18 games, he recorded only four goals and 2 assists.
"Mittelstadt is a consistent 40-50 point scorer when he's on his game. Perhaps he can find his consistency in Chicago. He would certainly receive every opportunity to find his mark." -McKinstry
Mittelstadt has demonstrated solid skill and undeniable talent, but consistency has been the missing piece. The proposed trade could be the catalyst that helps the former first-round pick rediscover his scoring touch and take his game to the next level.
Chicago might be the best fit for him to rediscover his talent.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 23 | 28 ANSWERS Divisional rivals set sights on former Avalanche first-round star in shocking new development Do you think Casey Mittelstadt still has the potential to become an NHL star? | ||
| yes | 10 | 35.7 % |
| no | 18 | 64.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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