The Chicago Blackhawks are looking to come out of their rebuild as fast as possible. Having Andreas Athanasiou re-signed is one of the many steps that will be taken to achieve this goal. The UFA was signed to a two-year, $2.25 million deal, carrying him through the 2023-24 season.
Andreas Athanasiou returns to Chicago. https://t.co/FHqksZ9XcT
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) June 7, 2023
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Andreas Athanasiou Re-Signed By Blackhawks
Athanasiou, 28, played the entirety of last season for the Blackhawks after being brought over from the Los Angeles Kings. In his 81 games, he had 20 goals and 20 assists, totalling 40 points. He was one of three Blackhawks players to eclipse the 40-point mark last season, joining former Blackhawks Max Domi and Patrick Kane. While that is not an impressive feat, doing so on a rebuilding team that ended up near the bottom of the league is nothing to scoff at. He even scored in the fateful game against the Pittsburgh Penguins to secure the win, propelling the Florida Panthers into the playoffs.
Over his eight-year career, he’s played with four teams – the Detroit Red Wings, Edmonton Oilers, Kings, and Blackhawks. In 459 games, he’s amassed 236 points, divided between 125 goals and 111 assists.
Why Re-Signing Athanasiou Works
For rebuilding teams, it is usually uncommon to keep many players around for very long. Young talent itching to get more ice time are usually the players that step up. However, for both the Blackhawks and Athanasiou, this deal is perfect. The Blackhawks keep a fantastic offensive weapon that will fit very well with their first overall pick. In addition, his presence will help guide the young players as they step into the league or fill big shoes. For Athanasiou, the benefit is pretty simple. He gets paid and still plays top-line minutes, even if it’s on a rebuilding team. Whichever way you look at it, having Athanasiou re-signed for two more years is a good sign for Chicago.
Photo: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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