Ilya Mikheyev trade rumors grow as Chicago Blackhawks prepare for 2026 NHL offseason changes

The Chicago Blackhawks could be facing a big offseason decision on forward Ilya Mikheyev before the start of the 2026 NHL free-agent period. The franchise is reportedly looking at trade options for Mikheyev’s negotiating rights as contract talks don’t seem to be moving toward a breakthrough before July 1.

The news has quickly grown into one of the biggest NHL trade rumors concerning the Chicago Blackhawks this offseason. Ilya Mikheyev was a key offensive player for the 2025-26 NHL season, and his potential departure is a major storyline for the team and their rebuilding plans around Connor Bedard.

Chicago Blackhawks and Ilya Mikheyev NHL trade discussions continue ahead

The Chicago Blackhawks are apparently shopping the rights to Ilya Mikheyev before the unrestricted free agency period begins. NHL insider reports the club doesn’t expect to get a new long-term deal done with the veteran winger.

Ilya Mikheyev was one of the top offensive players for the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2025-26 NHL season. He had 18 goals and 36 total points, putting him behind only Tyler Bertuzzi, Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar in team scoring categories.

That has resulted in a flurry of NHL news and NHL trade rumors as teams around the league look to add veteran forwards prior to the free agency period.

Ilya Mikheyev likely wants a bigger deal. Mainly, after playing out the final year of his last four-year NHL contract, and his previous contract had a salary cap hit of $4.75 million per season. But an improving free-agent market could send his value sky-high this summer.

The Chicago Blackhawks are still building around younger players like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar with an eye on long-term roster flexibility.

If Mikheyev does become available, there’s a chance a handful of NHL teams could be interested, given the limited number of high-scoring forwards.

If the Chicago Blackhawks lose Ilya Mikheyev, they’ll have another hole to fill offensively heading into the 2026-27 NHL season. His speed, two-way game and scoring depth helped steady the lineup through tough stretches all year.

The Chicago Blackhawks management is expected to stay busy during the NHL offseason with trade talks and roster evaluations continuing throughout the league.