HawkTalkChi

The Chicago Blackhawks have reportedly made up their minds on Mitch Marner, and while there’s interest, the front office doesn’t expect to be part of the chase for Toronto’s star forward.

Blackhawks want to improve, but cash, and timing, say otherwise

There’s no question the Blackhawks want to take a step forward this offseason. With Jeff Blashill stepping in as head coach and Connor Bedard about to begin his third NHL season, the message from the top is clear: it’s time to surround this core with stronger, steadier talent.

But ambition doesn’t always match circumstance.

Chicago’s front office is facing the reality of a limited budget and a roster that’s still in the early stages of a full rebuild.

And while names like Mitch Marner may generate buzz, it doesn’t mean they’re part of the plan.

Scott Powers: Blackhawks admire Marner, but won’t break the bank

According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, the Blackhawks have done their homework on Marner. But being interested and being a bidder are two very different things.

For one, if Marner does hit the open market, the Blackhawks, like everyone else, would likely inquire about him,

Powers wrote.

The Blackhawks just aren’t expected to open their checkbook and allow Marner to fill out the amount. That alone probably wouldn’t make them a true player for him.

Marner, who remains under contract in Toronto, has become a talking point this offseason as speculation builds around the Leafs’ next steps. But even if the 27-year-old winger hits the market, Chicago isn’t expected to be in the thick of it.

Veteran stars don’t align with Blackhawks’ current timeline

Powers added that while the Blackhawks like what Marner brings to the ice, the timing isn’t right. He’s not viewed as the type of player who fits their current stage of development.

As much as they like Marner, they don’t see him—or any unrestricted free agent—as an essential piece to add, considering where they are in their rebuild,

he noted.

He isn’t the Brian Campbell or Marián Hossa that puts them over the top. Two years from now, as the Blackhawks’ youth grows older and more established, that could be different.

Chicago’s focus remains long-term—even if it means missing out now

This approach shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Kyle Davidson has been consistent in his rebuild-first strategy, avoiding quick fixes and sticking to a patient path forward.

Adding a big-ticket free agent like Marner might excite the fanbase in the short term, but it would clash with the broader vision in place.

So for now, the Blackhawks will watch from a distance. Marner may be a gem in this year’s free agency class, but in Chicago, the priority remains growth over glamour.