Exciting Goalie Battle Looms for Blackhawks at Training Camp

The Chicago Blackhawks are poised for an intriguing goalie battle as training camp approaches. Prospect Drew Commesso is set to challenge Arvid Soderblom for a coveted spot on the roster, and the potential for a heated competition is palpable.

Commesso, a 2020 second-round pick, made a compelling case for himself during his limited appearances with the Blackhawks last season. In just three games, he posted a 2-1-0 record, showcasing a solid 2.31 goals-against average and an impressive .918 save percentage. His standout moment came on January 10, when he delivered a remarkable 36-save shutout against the Nashville Predators, leaving fans and coaches alike eager to see more.

As he heads into training camp, Commesso’s track record at the AHL level adds to the intrigue. His best season with the Rockford IceHogs came in 2024-25, where he recorded an 18-15-4 record, complemented by a .911 save percentage and a 2.54 goals-against average. If he can replicate that success and continue to impress, he could very well secure a position on the Blackhawks’ roster to kick off the season.

On the flip side, Soderblom brings experience to the table, having appeared in 26 games last season with the Blackhawks. His record of 8-13-3, along with an .880 save percentage and one shutout, reflects a challenging season. This followed a similarly tough 2025-26 campaign, where he recorded a 10-18-7 record and a 3.18 goals-against average.

The backup goalie situation for the Blackhawks remains uncertain, with Soderblom currently holding the edge. However, as training camp unfolds, a strong performance from Commesso could shift the dynamics significantly, making this battle one to watch closely.

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