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Former Chicago Blackhawks forward remains desperate to find new home in NHL free agency

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Jack Sutherland
August 13, 2025 (7:48 PM)

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Former Chicago Blackhawks forward Craig Smith remains desperate to find a new home in NHL free agency, as he remains unsigned so far this summer.

So far this summer, there has been no luck for former Chicago Blackhawks forward Craig Smith in finding a new NHL home.

Smith, who was traded to the former divisional foe Detroit Red Wings in March in a deal that also included Petr Mrazek for now-ex Hawks forward Joe Veleno, remains one of many free agents who are still looking for a new team.

Per analyst Michael DeRosa of The Hockey News, Smith's veteran presence and 2-way play could make him an attractive option for teams looking to add experience.

"While Smith remains unsigned at this juncture of the summer, the possibility of this changing is certainly there. The 35-year-old's solid two-way play and high amount of experience could make him a nice addition for a team looking to add to their forward depth. Thus, it would not be particularly surprising if he landed a one-year deal or professional tryout (PTO) from an NHL club before training camp if he wishes to continue his career."

Smith has 452 points (220G, 232A) in 987 career NHL games. He signed a 1 year contract with the Blackhawks last July.

The Blackhawks traded Smith to the Red Wings in March

Smith was included in the trade by the Blackhawks along with goaltender Petr Mrazek to the Red Wings in March, which sent Joe Veleno back to the Blackhawks in return.

All 3 players no longer play for either team; Mrazek was traded by Detroit this summer to the Anaheim Ducks for John Gibson, while the Blackhawks traded Veleno to the Seattle Kraken for Andre Burakovsky.

Veleno was then waived by Seattle and subsequently signed by the Montreal Canadiens.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Connor Bedard appears to have undergone a substantial offseason change in new sighting

Former Chicago Blackhawks fan favorite Dustin Byfuglien receives praise for new career venture

Chicago Blackhawks named landing spot for disgruntled Maple Leafs forward

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AOUT 13 \| 294 ANSWERS Former Chicago Blackhawks forward remains desperate to find new home in NHL free agency Should the Blackhawks bring back Craig Smith?
Yes	85	28.9 %
No	209	71.1 %
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Former Chicago Blackhawks forward remains desperate to find new home in NHL free agency

Former Chicago Blackhawks forward Craig Smith remains desperate to find a new home in NHL free agency, as he remains unsigned so far this summer.

The Blackhawks traded Smith to the Red Wings in March

Should the Blackhawks bring back Craig Smith?