In a strategic move, Utah HC has traded Victor Söderström, Aku Räty, and Shea Weber to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick. While none of the players involved are currently on Utah's active roster, the deal allows Utah to clear Weber's contract, providing them with approximately $22 million in cap space for the upcoming offseason.

Chicago, in the midst of a rebuild, takes on Weber's contract as they look to meet the cap floor next season while also acquiring the rights to develop prospects. This trade highlights the collaborative nature of the current NHL landscape as both teams aim to enhance their rosters moving forward.