After just one season, in what seemed to be a good deal, the Chicago Blackhawks have parted ways with TJ Brodie. On Saturday, Brodie was placed on waivers with the Blackhawks, intending to buy out his contract to free up some cap space.
Brodie had one year remaining on his deal at a cap hit of $3.75 million. According to figures provided by PuckPedia, the buyout will cost Chicago the following:
- 2025-26 Cap Hit: $3,233,333
- 2026-27 Cap Hit: $258,333
- Annual Buyout Cost: $258,333 across two seasons
- Total Savings (2025–26): $516,667
Brodie will earn $775,000 next season and previously earned the signing bonus of $2.45 million. Despite the short-term hit in 2025-26, the Hawks save over half a million dollars next season and take on a minimal cap penalty the year after.
BREAKING: #Blackhawks to buy out contract of defender TJ Brodie, per @FriedgeHNIC. Had one year left at $3.75M
Buyout cap hit, via @PuckPedia:https://t.co/B1RPgnJu5Q pic.twitter.com/XRddHFatda
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) June 21, 2025
Brodie was acquired by the Blackhawks late in the 2024-25 season. However, he never looked like an asset on Chicago’s blue line rotation as he had a -18 rating. He could only produce two goals and eight assists in 54 games. This pales in comparison to his past performances, which include 266 points in 10 seasons with the Calgary Flames and 82 in four seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Blackhawks are in the middle of a rebuild. With talents like Connor Bedard, Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro on the roster, the move was made with more of an intention to open up a roster spot and sign a player who could sit well with long-term future in mind.
As far as Brodie is concerned, it’s unclear whether Brodie will land another NHL contract. He may need to consider a short-term deal or a PTO (professional tryout) in training camp.
