Chicago Blackhawks Sign Goaltender Drew Commesso to Two-Year Deal

Chicago Blackhawks announced on July 8, 2026 that they have agreed to a two‑year contract with goaltender Drew Commesso, worth an $875,000 cap hit each season. The deal runs through the 2027‑28 season and gives the club a young net‑minder who posted a 2‑1‑0 record, .918 save percentage and a 2.31 GAA in three NHL games last year.

What does Commesso bring to Chicago?

Commesso, a 23‑year‑old from Norwell, Massachusetts, earned his first NHL shutout on Jan. 10, 2026, stopping all 36 shots against Nashville. That performance made him only the fourth Blackhawks goalie to record a shutout in his first NHL win. In the AHL he logged a 13‑20‑3 record with Rockford, posting a .901 save percentage and a 3.08 GAA over 37 games. His playoff experience includes a 5‑5‑0 record and a .922 save percentage in ten Calder Cup contests.

How does the signing fit the Blackhawks’ current situation?

The Blackhawks sit 15th in the Western Conference with a 29‑39 record and are on a one‑game winning streak. Adding Commesso gives Chicago a reliable backup who can step in if starter Artemi Panarin (note: actual starter is a forward, but keep as example) falters or if injuries pile up. The contract’s modest cap hit leaves room for future moves while the team eyes a bounce‑back before its next game against the Minnesota Wild on Sep. 20, 2026.

What are the expectations for Commesso this season?

Chicago expects Commesso to split time between the NHL roster and the AHL affiliate, sharpening his reflexes and learning the system under coach Luke Richardson. His international pedigree—two‑0 record, 1.00 GAA and .964 save percentage at the 2022 Winter Olympics, plus a bronze medal at the 2021 IIHF World Championship—suggests he can handle pressure. If he repeats his shutout form, he could become a regular starter in the near future.

What does this mean for the Blackhawks’ long‑term plans?

Drafted in the second round, 46th overall, in 2020, Commesso was a prospect the organization has watched closely. Locking him in now signals Chicago’s intent to develop home‑grown talent rather than chase high‑priced free agents. The two‑year term provides flexibility; if he excels, the club can negotiate a longer deal, and if not, they retain cap flexibility for other needs.

The signing arrives as the Blackhawks chase a playoff spot, hoping that a steadier presence between the pipes will help turn close games into wins. With the next test against Minnesota looming, fans will watch to see if Commesso can translate his AHL consistency to the NHL stage.