The Chicago Blackhawks have some tough decisions to make this offseason as they look to reshape their roster following another Stanley Cup championship, but the organization’s plans likely won’t include Johnny Oduya.
That’s because the defenseman, who joined the team after a trade in February 2012, has said that he will explore free agency, according to Scott Powers of ESPN Chicago. Oduya, who is 34 years old, has won two championships with the organization, but with a looming salary cap crunch for the Blackhawks and only one more really good opportunity to cash in for the defenseman, he’s opting to explore his options this offseason.
Oduya earned just over $3 million per season with the Blackhawks after inking a contract extension before the 2012-13 season, but with several teams already interested in his services, he could stand to make more in free agency this offseason.
