(670 The Score) The Blackhawks won’t re-sign veteran goalie Corey Crawford for next season, general manager Stan Bowman told reporters Thursday afternoon.
Crawford, 35, is set to enter free agency after spending his entire career with Chicago. Crawford’s representation and the Blackhawks had discussed a new deal in recent weeks but weren’t seeing eye to eye on money, according to reports.
Crawford took over as the Blackhawks’ starting goalie in 2010-’11 and helped lead them to Stanley Cup championships in 2013 and 2015. He was an All-Star in 2015 and 2017.
Bowman had what he called an "emotional" meeting with Crawford on Thursday morning in which they discussed the situation.
“We had some incredible moments together,” Bowman said. “Looking back at this last stretch of time, to be a two-time Stanley Cup champion – the only goaltender in the history of the Blackhawks to do that – I think it speaks volumes to his ability. He’s up there with the legends for the Blackhawks.”
Crawford had a 2.77 goals against average and .917 save percentage in 40 games this past season. He has been plagued by injuries – including concussions – in recent seasons. He hasn’t played more than 40 games in any of the past three seasons.
Crawford had 260 wins, a 2.45 goals against average and a .918 save percentage in his Blackhawks tenure.
“He never got the proper recognition early on," Bowman said. "We had such star-studded teams, and Corey was fantastic back in 2013 when we beat the Bruins (in the Stanly Cup Final). I think his importance to our team grew and grew."
As for what's next for the Blackhawks in net, Bowman expressed confidence in young goaltenders in Collin Delia and Kevin Lankinen, explaining they need more opportunity to play. The Blackhawks would also like to re-sign 26-year-old goalie Malcolm Subban, Bowman said, though he's entering free agency after Chicago didn't extend him a qualifying offer.