It has now been a month and half since the start of NHL free agency. While this is the case, there are still multiple players who remain unsigned.
Among the top defensemen who are still free agents at this point in the summer is former Chicago Blackhawks blueliner Matt Grzelcyk.
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With Grzelcyk being a well-respected veteran defenseman, it seems possible that he could land a professional tryout (PTO) or a one-year contract from an NHL team before the start of training camp. NHL clubs are always on the hunt for defensive depth, so the 32-year-old could very well generate some interest.
Grzelcyk spent last season with the Blackhawks and served well as a veteran mentor for their younger players. In 69 games with Chicago in 2025-26, he posted zero goals and 12 points. This was after he had a career year with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2024-25, as he posted a career-high 40 points in 82 games.
Given Grzelcyk’s solid resume, it would not be shocking if he gets another opportunity in the NHL. However, with the Blackhawks signing veteran defenseman Ian Cole this off-season, a return to Chicago seems unlikely.
