The Chicago Blackhawks have strengthened their goaltending depth by signing Olivier Rodrigue to a one-year, two-way contract for the rest of the season. The contract carries a $775,000 cap hit at the NHL level, though the two-way salary details were not disclosed. This move comes as the team prepares for the closing stretch of the season, aiming to bolster their backup options in goal.
Rodrigue’s Journey Through Professional Hockey
Olivier Rodrigue, 25, was selected 62nd overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round of the 2018 NHL Draft. Despite spending five seasons within Edmonton’s system, Rodrigue struggled to secure consistent NHL playing time, appearing in just two games for the Oilers last season. The majority of his professional experience came in the minor leagues, primarily with the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors and the ECHL’s Wichita Thunder. During his most recent full season, Rodrigue recorded a 3.12 goals-against average and a .897 save percentage across 42 games with Bakersfield.
Recent Setbacks and Return to North American Hockey
After becoming a Group Six unrestricted free agent last summer, Rodrigue did not immediately find a new NHL team. He eventually signed a one-year contract with Barys Astana of the KHL in mid-August but was released without playing a game due to an injury sustained shortly after signing. Since that injury, Rodrigue has remained sidelined but has now apparently recovered and is ready to return to active play, as reflected by this new contract with the Blackhawks.
Context Behind the Signing and Team Implications
The timing of Rodrigue’s signing is likely linked to goaltending challenges faced by Chicago. Prospect Stanislav Berezhnoy recently received a 20-game suspension from the AHL for violating performance-enhancing substance rules. This disciplinary action creates a gap in the Blackhawks’ goalie ranks, prompting them to acquire Rodrigue as a potential backup to Drew Commesso during the critical final games of the season. With 131 AHL appearances, Rodrigue carries career statistics of a 2.92 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage, which indicates he can competently fill the backup role while the team assesses his fit for subsequent seasons.
Next Steps: Waivers and Assignment to the IceHogs
Before Rodrigue can join the Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs, he must clear waivers—a process he is currently undergoing despite the NHL’s trade freeze. Reports from PuckPedia confirm that Rodrigue has been placed on waivers, and if unclaimed, he is expected to be sent down by Sunday, making him eligible to play immediately. This procedural step is essential for Chicago to officially add him to their goaltending lineup during the season’s closing stages.
