The Chicago Blackhawks should take a swing an unexpected free agency name, as Matias Maccelli fails to receive a qualifying offer in Toronto.
Entering the start of this week, the NHL free agency class was looking bleak. Ilya Mikheyev, one of the Chicago Blackhawks’ UFAs, is one of the top players entering this class. He’s certainly due for a payday and there will be others as well.
However, as the restricted free agent qualifying offers come and go, a few names can enter the free agency market that weren’t expected to be there. One such name comes from the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are entering a full retool after winning the NHL Draft lottery and selecting Gavin McKenna under new general manager John Chayka.
On Tuesday, reports suggest that forward Matias Maccelli is not receiving a qualifying offer. That makes him a free agent on Wednesday.
Maccelli had a fine season with Toronto, posting 39 points (17 goals, 25 assists) in 71 games. The thing is, Maccelli turns 26 at the start of the season and has two really good NHL seasons under his belt. When in Arizona with the now-defunct Coyotes, Maccelli posted 49 and 57 points, respectively in his first two seasons. However, after just 18 points in 55 games in the inaugural Utah season, Maccelli was moved to Toronto. Now, he could join a Blackhawks team with ample opportunity to prove himself again.
The Fit is There
Nov 15, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Ryan Donato (8) battles for the puck with Toronto Maple Leafs left wing Matias MacCelli (63) during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
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Since Maccelli is young, he may command a pretty penny. However, the Blackhawks could absolutely use a playmaking wing with four seasons of experience under his belt. His assist numbers are always higher, meaning he could be a great compliment to either Connor Bedard or Anton Frondell. Both players have great shots from the center position.
In a season where expectations for a leap forward are high, this type of free-agent option was unexpected. Now, Kyle Davidson can add a piece that not only fits the timeline of his team, but directly fills a massive need in the top-six. Giving Maccelli something around three or four years for $4.5 million to $5 million should get the job done.
A Maccelli addition certainly does not keep Kyle Davidson from making other moves, but definitely improves the forward group in case trades do not materialize. The Hawks cannot afford another underwhelming season. The pressure is on from the fanbase. Its time to add a player who fits in beautifully with the current group.