Matt Grzelcyk, a nine-year veteran, is now officially joining his third NHL team. The news comes after having been on a professional tryout with the Chicago Blackhawks. General manager Kyle Davidson and crew and saw enough and liked it. Therefore, the defenceman is signing a one-year contract with the Hawks. The deal is worth $1 million.
The #Blackhawks signed 31 y/o D Matt Grzelcyk to a 1 year $1M Cap Hit contract.
Gryzlcyk was on a PTO with the Blackhawks
Rep'd by Sean Coffey @QuartexxHockey https://t.co/OyFXT20H0B
— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) October 5, 2025
Grzelcyk Joins Third Team, the Chicago Blackhawks
Grzelcyk spent last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. In 82 games with the Pens, Grzelcyk scored one goal and recorded 39 assists. It was the first time in the veteran’s nine-year career in which he played in all 82 games.
Grzelcyk’s Role with Third Team
Grzelcyk will likely play somewhere on the bottom two pairs for the Blackhawks. After playing in all 82 games last season, the Hawks will hope to see that happen again to provide some durability to the lineup.
In addition to his durability, Grzelcyk also has experience in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and as a leader. With the Boston Bruins, Grzelcyk played in 66 playoff games and scored five goals. In 2019, Grzelcyk and the Bruins reached the Stanley Cup Final, although an injury limited him to just three games.
Leadership
Grzelcyk served as the captain of his college team his junior and senior year. Furthermore, Grzelcyk served as an assistant captain during the 2014 World Juniors for Team USA.
Regardless of whether he wears a “C,” an “A”, or nothing at all, Grzelcyk can still serve as a leader with his new team. Grzelcyk’s experience in hockey, from college hockey to the NHL, has given him multiple opportunities that has given him experience he can share with Connor Bedard. Also, the Hawks blueline has plenty of youth that will benefit. Guys like Artyom Levshunov and Sam Rinzel, and looking to take the next step. Having a veteran like Grzelcyk will shelter them from high-leverage situations when required. It truly is an invaluable trait.
Career Bests
As mentioned earlier, last season was the first time Grzelcyk has played in all 82 games in the regular season. However, his career-high in goals came in the 2020-21 season, when he scored five goals. In addition, his career-high in points came during the 2022-23 season when he recorded 26 points. That same season, the Bruins won the President’s Trophy and tied for the most regular-season wins in NHL history with 62.
Main Photo: Bob DeChiara- Imagn Images
