Blackhawks Extend Drew Commesso with Two-Year Deal

Drew Commesso has secured his future with the Chicago Blackhawks, signing a two-year extension just a day after opting not to file for arbitration. The new contract carries a cap hit of $875,000, reflecting the team’s commitment to the young goaltender’s development.

The first year of the deal is structured as a two-way contract, allowing Commesso to earn $800,000 in the NHL and $200,000 in the AHL, with a guarantee of $250,000. In the second year, it transitions to a one-way deal worth $900,000, positioning him for potential growth within the organization. Upon expiration, Commesso will be a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, providing him with leverage as he continues to develop his game.

This extension is viewed as a prudent bridge deal for both Commesso and the Blackhawks. It allows him the necessary time to hone his skills, with the expectation that he will serve as Spencer Knight’s backup heading into the 2027-28 season. Meanwhile, Arvid Soderblom, who has one year remaining on his current contract, might hold an advantage for the backup role in the 2026-27 season. There remains a possibility that Commesso could see NHL action sooner, but further seasoning in the AHL may be beneficial.

Commesso’s performance last season showcased his potential, as he recorded a .918 save percentage, a 2.31 goals against average, and one shutout in three NHL appearances. While the sample size is limited, he demonstrated the ability to rise to the occasion when called upon. In today’s NHL landscape, having three capable goaltenders is crucial for teams managing the rigors of an 84-game season.

As Commesso works towards establishing himself as a starting goaltender, whether with the Blackhawks or another franchise down the line, this contract sets him on a promising path. Currently, he joins Connor Bedard, Kevin Korchinski, and Ethan Del Mastro as the remaining restricted free agents within the Blackhawks’ system.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.