Jeff Blashill’s Blackhawks reportedly settling legal dispute tied to Connor Bedard’s top-line teammate | NHL News
As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare for the 2025–26 NHL season, a sense of cautious optimism surrounds the franchise. Under the leadership of Jeff Blashill, the team is determined to sidestep the controversies of recent years and focus on forging a new identity. But just as the winds of change seem ready to blow through the United Center, a contract standoff with goaltender Arvid Soderblom has added an unexpected wrinkle.
Blackhawks ready to move forward as legal drama around Connor Bedard ’s teammate reportedly coming to an end
Unlike previous summers filled with blockbuster trades or headline-making free-agent signings, the Blackhawks chose a more reserved approach this offseason. Rather than chasing stars, the franchise doubled down on its young core—headlined by rising phenom Connor Bedard, and kept the roster mostly intact. It’s a gamble that signals faith in development over short-term splash, but it also leaves the team with minimal margin for error.Still, one pressing matter remains unresolved. After restricted free agent Arvid Soderblom filed for salary arbitration, Chicago was thrust into a tricky spot. The 25-year-old Swedish netminder, seen as a crucial backup option—or even a potential starter down the line—could either negotiate a deal or face a ruling from an NHL arbitrator. Letting him walk into unrestricted free agency? Unlikely.“The Blackhawks have over $21 million in cap space, so it is likely they will settle with Soderblom on a one-year deal,” Michael Augello reported via The Hockey News. That room gives Chicago a clear upper hand in keeping him without significant financial strain. Yet, in a league where planning for the unexpected is essential, the front office isn’t leaving anything to chance.
Blackhawks is building goaltending depth with an eye on the future
While Soderblom’s situation unfolds, the Blackhawks have already started insulating themselves. The recent signing of Stanislav Berezhnoy to a two-year entry-level contract offers a fallback, signaling that the team has no intention of being caught off guard. Add in the presence of Spencer Knight—brought in at last season’s deadline and primed to be the franchise’s starting goalie—and the depth chart starts to take shape.Behind Knight is 23-year-old Drew Commesso, whose limited NHL experience is offset by raw potential and hunger to earn his spot. Together, this trio represents the Hawks’ commitment to a competitive future, even if growing pains remain.With leadership recalibrated and youth as their backbone, the Blackhawks hope to usher in a new era—one where off-ice drama no longer overshadows on-ice potential.
FAQs:
1. What is Connor Bedard’s salary?In 2025-26, Bedard will earn a base salary of $855,000 and a signing bonus of $95,000, while carrying a cap hit of $950,000.2. Who is Jeff Blashill?Jeff Blashill has been appointed as the new head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. He previously served as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning from 2022 to 2025, following his tenure as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings from 2015 to 2022.3. What is Arvid Soderblom’s contract details?Arvid Soderblom signed a 2 year, $1,925,000 contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on May 10, 2023, with an average annual salary of $962500. Also Read: Connor McDavid’s next team already decided? Report suggests one Stanley Cup contender has the edge
