Blackhawks Re-Sign Goaltender Petr Mrazek to a Two-Year Contract
Petr Mrazek's New Deal with the Blackhawks
In a significant move for their roster, the Chicago Blackhawks have secured goaltender Petr Mrazek for another two years. The deal, valued at $8.5 million, offers the team stability between the pipes and ensures that Mrazek will not be entering unrestricted free agency.
Contract Details
Mrazek's contract carries an average annual value (AAV) of $4.25 million, reflecting his worth to a Blackhawks team in dire need of consistent goaltending. This season, Mrazek has recorded a 12-17-1 record over 32 games, including one shutout. Despite the team's struggles, as evidenced by their 14-31-2 record and position at the bottom of the Central Division, Mrazek has maintained a respectable goals-against average (GAA) of 3.01 and a save percentage of .907.
Career Overview
Over his career, spanning 366 games, Mrazek has compiled an impressive 162-141-35 record. His lifetime GAA stands at 2.78, paired with a consistent save percentage of .907. With 25 career shutouts to his name, Mrazek has proven his ability to perform at a high level. His playoff experience is equally notable, boasting a 12-15 record, a 2.43 GAA, and a .911 save percentage, along with five shutouts in postseason play.
Mrazek's Reflections on the Deal
"Yeah, I’m really happy we got it done," Mrazek expressed, showing his contentment with the new contract. He added, "I’m grateful for the opportunity I received last year and am excited about what the future holds for us." Mrazek's focus remains on contributing to a culture shift within the Blackhawks organization. "It’s something we’re trying to change here, the culture and everything, and it’s been fun for me to play like this, to be playing every night and being healthy, feeling good about yourself," he said. Emphasizing the importance of team success, Mrazek stated, "Having good games definitely helps but the number one thing for me is to turn things around here as a team and start winning games soon."
Management's Confidence in Mrazek
Kyle Davidson, presumably holding a managerial role within the Blackhawks organization, praised Mrazek's impact on the team. "Petr is a strong goaltender who continues to display the athleticism and calming style of play that has made him so successful in this league," Davidson remarked. He also noted Mrazek's significant influence within the group and shared his excitement about retaining the goaltender's services.
Coaching Staff's Endorsement
Coach Luke Richardson lauded Mrazek's professionalism and performance, particularly following a bout of injury trouble last year. "He had a great finish last year for us and this year he’s been fantastic," Richardson commented. Acknowledging the efforts to manage Mrazek's workload, Richardson mentioned, "Came in in great shape and we’re trying to manage his load, so he doesn’t get overworked, but the schedule’s worked out fine for him and he’s played great."
Richardson also highlighted Mrazek's off-ice contributions, such as his communication with the defense, especially important given the youth on the Blackhawks' defensive core. "His communication with the defensemen is huge," Richardson noted. Moreover, Richardson commended Mrazek's work ethic, saying, "Other than that, whether he’s sick or feeling a little banged up, he shows up for work every day, never takes a day off. He’s shown true professionalism and that’s good for the younger guys to see."
Other Signings
The Blackhawks are not the only team making moves. Nick Foligno has signed a two-year deal worth $9 million with an AAV of $4.5 million. Similarly, Jason Dickinson has inked a two-year contract valued at $8.5 million, also carrying an AAV of $4.25 million. These signings indicate a busy market for players in similar positions, setting a benchmark for contracts around the league.
As the Blackhawks continue to rebuild and strive for improvement, securing Mrazek for two more years represents a step forward in addressing their goaltending needs and changing the team's trajectory. With Mrazek's positive outlook and the coaching staff's support, the Blackhawks hope to climb from the depths of the Central Division and return to competitive form.
