The Chicago Blackhawks have once again turned to Sam Lafferty, acquiring him from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This move marks the third time Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson has pursued Lafferty, highlighting a strong inclination toward the forward.
Lafferty initially joined the Blackhawks in January 2022 from the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he recorded 32 points over 97 games. Under former coach Luke Richardson, he effectively contributed to the team’s penalty kill and was an asset on a checking line. However, his journey has seen various twists, including a trade to the Toronto Maple Leafs in February 2023 as part of the deal for Jake McCabe, which yielded a second-round pick in return.
The Blackhawks’ attempts to reacquire Lafferty continued when they obtained his free-agent rights from the Vancouver Canucks in June 2024 but failed to reach an agreement. Lafferty eventually signed with the Sabres for two years, although his production was limited during the 2024-25 season, accumulating just seven points in 60 games.
Now back in Chicago, Lafferty has one year left on his contract and is expected to add offensive depth under new coach Jeff Blashill, aligning with the Hawks’ goal of maintaining a fast-paced, aggressive style of play.
Looking ahead, the Blackhawks are focused on fostering their youth movement, allowing prospects to make their mark in the league. Lafferty could provide backup in situations where young players struggle, but his spot on the roster will depend on his performance and the development of emerging talents.
As free agency commenced, the overall excitement around the league was subdued, but the Blackhawks are positioning themselves strategically for the coming season, blending experience with promising young talent. The team’s approach reflects a commitment to building a competitive roster while nurturing the next generation of players, fostering a hopeful outlook for Blackhawks fans.