Huge announcement drops involving a former Leafs netminder

During his time in Toronto, former Maple Leafs goaltender Petr Mrazek seemed to have spent more time injured than he did in net during his short stint with the organization. His injuries and cap constraints made him expendable and the Leafs traded him along with a 2022 first-round pick to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for their 2d round pick, which became top prospect Fraser Minten.

Last season, Mrazek's injuries continued as he only suited up in 39 games for the Hawks, but so far this season, he has been able to stay healthy and productive. Through 31 games, he is 12-16-1 but has posted a 3.04 GAA and respectable .906 save percentage. These numbers don't look all that great on the surface, but when you consider that he's doing this with a rebuilding team like Chicago, without the likes of Connor Bedard, Taylor Hall, Anthony Beauvillier, Nick Foligno and a number of other NHL regulars on the sidelines, it's all the more impressive.

With his success this season and having shown the ability to stay healthy, the 31-year-old has been the topic of several trade rumours this season. However, Kevin Weekes has reported that Mrazek may no longer be available as there is a mutual interest in working out an extension between him and the Hawks. Mrazek has enjoyed his time in, Chicago working with goalie coach Jimmy Waite according to Weekes and sees Chicago as a good fit for him beyond this season.

Although there is mutual interest in an extension, it is possible that Mrazek may still find himself traded closer to the deadline. That would depend on the offer the Hawks receive and whether it is just too good to pass up. Should that happen, Mrazek would always have the option to re-sign with Chicago in the summer. Mrazek does have a modified no-trade clause, so he does have some veto power, but would still not have final say on if he gets to stay in Chicago or not.