Grzelcyk Aims for New NHL Home After Productive Penguins Stint
Veteran defenseman seeks next opportunity following career-best season
Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk is generating interest on the NHL free-agent market after a season that saw him set multiple personal bests with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Career-High Season Ignites Free Agency Buzz
Spending his first year away from Boston, Grzelcyk inked a one-year agreement with Pittsburgh. Despite a sluggish start, the blue-liner found his rhythm, achieving career highs in points with 40, blocked shots reaching 101, and playing in all 82 games. He also averaged a career-best 20:37 of ice time per contest.
For teams still seeking offensive contributions late in free agency, Grzelcyk‘s 40 points last season surpasses any other available defenseman. More significantly, he offers a reliable option for a third pairing who can step into a larger role when needed.
Seeking Next Chapter Amidst Limited Options
After concluding his tenure with the Bruins, the Massachusetts native signed a $2.75 million deal with Pittsburgh, aiming to revitalize his career. While a lucrative multi-year contract may be unlikely, Grzelcyk demonstrated value despite Pittsburgh’s struggles. He remains a viable left-handed depth defenseman for an NHL team.
At 31, Grzelcyk is the last remaining defenseman on ProHockeyRumors’ top 50 free agent list. His consistent availability and recent performance suggest he will secure a new contract soon.
Stats Snapshot
2024-25 Season: 81 GP, 1 G, 39 A, 40 PTS, -4 rating, 16 PIMs, 101 blocked shots, 43 hits, averaging 20:37 TOI.
Career Totals: 527 GP, 26 G, 149 A, 175 PTS, +131 rating, 253 PIMs, 542 blocked shots, 353 hits, averaging 18:27 TOI.
Potential Landing Spots Narrowed
A return to Pittsburgh appears improbable following the recent acquisition of defenseman Matt Dumba. While the Penguins possess cap flexibility, they already have eight defensemen under one-way contracts, with prospects Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke developing.
A reunion with his hometown Bruins also seems unlikely due to Boston’s limited cap space and defensive roster needs. However, contending teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs or younger franchises such as the Chicago Blackhawks, seeking veteran leadership, could find Grzelcyk‘s services beneficial.
Contract Projections Adjust for Market Realities
Initially projected by ProHockeyRumors as the 22nd-best free agent, a three-year deal averaging $3.67 million was anticipated, placing him alongside newly signed defensemen like Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin. However, with the free agency period advancing, Grzelcyk is more likely to secure another one-year contract, possibly at a similar salary to his previous Pittsburgh deal, just under $3 million.