The Chicago Blackhawks made a notable move during the quiet 2025 NHL off-season by acquiring forward Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken in exchange for Joe Veleno, primarily to alleviate Burakovsky’s $5.5 million cap hit. The trade has proven beneficial for the Blackhawks, as Burakovsky has excelled with eight goals and 13 assists in 26 games, including three points in his last two outings. His impactful performance, highlighted by a goal and an assist against the St. Louis Blues on Dec. 12, underscores the team’s favorable acquisition. Meanwhile, Veleno was bought out by the Kraken and subsequently signed with the Montreal Canadiens.
