Petr Mrazek's New Deal with the Blackhawks
In a significant move for their roster, the Chicago Blackhawks have secured goaltender Petr Mrazek with a two-year contract valued at $8.5 million. The agreement, which prevents Mrazek from entering unrestricted free agency, ensures that the Blackhawks have a seasoned netminder in their ranks as they strive to rebuild their team dynamics and improve upon their current standing.
Contract Details
The contract, which carries an average annual value of $4.25 million, is seen as a strategic investment by the Blackhawks in a bid to enhance their defensive lineup. With a season record of 12-17-1, Mrazek has demonstrated resilience between the pipes, maintaining a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.01 and a save percentage of .907 over 32 games this season, including one shutout.
Despite the Blackhawks' challenging season, where they currently hold a 14-31-2 record and sit at the bottom of the Central Division, Mrazek's individual performance and experience are viewed as key components to support the team's development. His career statistics underscore his capabilities, with 366 games under his belt, a record of 162-141-35, and an impressive 25 career shutouts. His lifetime GAA stands at 2.78, with a consistent save percentage of .907.
Playoff Performance
Mrazek's playoff acumen is not to be overlooked either. He boasts a record of 12-15, a GAA of 2.43, a save percentage of .911, and five shutouts in the postseason. These numbers reflect a goaltender who can elevate his game when the stakes are highest, a trait the Blackhawks will undoubtedly find valuable as they aim to return to playoff contention.
Reactions to the Signing
"Yeah, I’m really happy we got it done," said Mrazek, expressing his contentment with the new contract. He also conveyed his gratitude for the previous year and optimism about the future, "I’m grateful for the opportunity I received last year and am excited about what the future holds for us."
Kyle Davidson, whose role was not specified in the original article, praised Mrazek's abilities, stating, "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 further emphasized Mrazek's influence on the team, saying, "He’s had an immense impact within our group, and we’re excited to have Petr back."
Mrazek himself highlighted his ambitions with the team: "Obviously the number one thing is to win games and be part of a winning team and having fun in the locker room while winning." He acknowledged the current challenges and expressed his commitment to improving the team's fortunes, "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." Mrazek concluded with a focus on team success, "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."
Coach Luke Richardson commended Mrazek's contributions and professionalism, "He’s been great," he said. Richardson touched upon Mrazek's past injury issues and his commendable recovery, "I think last year he had a bit of injury trouble and he corrected that. He had a great finish last year for us and this year he’s been fantastic." Acknowledging the demands of the position, Richardson added, "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 impact, particularly his communication skills and leadership, "It’s not just him stopping the puck. His communication with the defensemen is huge, especially with a lot of young guys on our defensive core." He continued to praise Mrazek's work ethic, "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
Alongside Mrazek's contract, the Blackhawks have been active in the market, as reflected by other signings such as Nick Foligno and Jason Dickinson. Foligno's two-year deal is worth $9 million with an