Huge news drops regarding an ex-Leafs netminder

The Toronto Maple Leafs traded goaltender Petr Mrazek to the Chicago Blackhawks prior to the 2022 entry draft. The trade was a cap dump for the Leafs as they felt they could not move forward with the final two years of his contract due to his health and inconsistent play. Mrazek is now in the final year of his deal that is paying him $3.8M for the season and, surprisingly, has been able to stay healthy for Chicago.

A couple of weeks ago, it was reported that Mrazek may be a deadline trade asset for the Hawks as there are a number of teams looking to add some veteran depth at the position. However, it was announced last week by Kevin Weekes that there was mutual interest in working out an extension as Mrazek has enjoyed his time in Chicago and he has played well for the lowly Hawks as they continue their rebuild. Today, Weekes announced that the Hawks and Mrazek have agreed on a two-year extension that will see the former Leaf earn $4.25M per season, totaling $8.5M.

The former fifth-round pick has played in 32 games for the Hawks this season compiling a 12-17-1 record, 3.01 GAA and .907 save percentage. In 366 career NHL games with the Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes, Leafs and Hawks Mrazek has posted a 162-141-35 record with a 2.78 GAA and .907 save percentage.

Congratulations to Mrazek on his new contract with the Hawks.