The Chicago Blackhawks are currently spending over $30 million on players not contributing to the roster this season, a reflection of their rebuilding phase and financial strategy. Key figures include injury-absent players like Jason Dickinson and Laurent Brossoit, each commanding significant AAVs. The team's aggressive cap management includes retaining portions of contracts from players like Mikko Rantanen and Seth Jones, providing flexibility for future acquisitions. The Blackhawks are expected to see a considerable reduction in this spending next season, provided players return from injury and contract expirations unwind.

The Chicago Blackhawks are struggling in the NHL, currently sitting at the bottom of the standings with ongoing scoring issues. Despite a head coaching change and an influx of mid-tier talent, the team's strategy to promote competition among prospects has not yielded the desired results. General manager Kyle Davidson's approach has led to the waiving of several veteran players, including Andreas Athanasiou and Joey Anderson, in favor of promising young talents like Colton Dach, who is set to make his NHL debut.

The Blackhawks initially had too many veterans for a team in rebuilding mode, which limited opportunities for younger players. The organization is now focusing on providing these prospects with the playing time they need to develop. Key veterans such as Taylor Hall, Craig Smith, Pat Maroon, and Alec Martinez are likely to be moved to facilitate this transition. The sooner the Blackhawks make these adjustments, the better positioned they will be for future success, especially as they aim to capitalize on the talent within their system.

The St. Louis Blues are undergoing a roster reset, and goaltender Jordan Binnington's future with the team is uncertain. With the team struggling below the playoff line, trade discussions may arise, especially if Binnington seeks a move to a contending team.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks are looking to improve their roster while managing salary cap constraints. They have lowered Andreas Athanasiou's cap hit and are eyeing potential free-agent wingers to complement young star Connor Bedard.

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly reiterated to teams that discussions with pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) are prohibited before July 1, warning of potential fines and loss of draft picks due to tampering. He expressed discomfort with media commentary suggesting pre-July negotiations.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are actively seeking to trade players, including pending UFAs Lars Eller, Marcus Pettersson, and Drew O’Connor, while maintaining key figures like Evgeni Malkin and coach Mike Sullivan.

Other teams, including the Los Angeles Kings and Columbus Blue Jackets, are navigating player contracts and potential trades as the offseason approaches.

The waiver wire has seen significant activity, particularly involving former Detroit Red Wings players. Andreas Athanasiou, now with the Chicago Blackhawks, has experienced a notable decline in ice time over the past three seasons, dropping from 16 minutes to just under 10 minutes per game.

Meanwhile, veteran goaltender James Reimer was placed on waivers after struggling with the Buffalo Sabres and subsequently with the Anaheim Ducks. His poor performance, allowing nine goals in two games, has raised questions about his future in the league.