Blackhawks Placed Derrick Pouliot on Waivers
The Chicago Blackhawks have placed veteran defenseman Derrick Pouliot on the NHL waiver wire.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Hockey
Live Poll
Should your local team prioritize veteran players over younger talent to reach the playoffs?
The Chicago Blackhawks placed 32-year-old defenseman Derrick Pouliot on waivers on September 21, 2026. Any NHL franchise now has the opportunity to claim the veteran player.
Why it matters
This move allows the Blackhawks to manage their roster and salary cap efficiency as the team continues to evaluate its defensive depth. If Pouliot clears waivers, he is expected to rejoin the AHL Rockford IceHogs for the remainder of his contract.
During his recent tenure with the AHL Rockford IceHogs, Pouliot recorded six assists over 16 appearances. He finished that stretch of play with a minus-3 plus-minus rating.
The players
Derrick Pouliot
He is a 32-year-old professional hockey player who previously won a Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Chicago Blackhawks
This is a professional NHL franchise based in Chicago that competes in the Central Division.
Rockford IceHogs
They serve as the primary American Hockey League affiliate for the Chicago Blackhawks.
The details
The Blackhawks acquired Pouliot from the New York Rangers in March 2026 as part of a roster adjustment. Pouliot is a veteran defenseman who was a member of the 2016 Pittsburgh Penguins Stanley Cup championship team.
Timeline
Derrick Pouliot helped the Pittsburgh Penguins win the Stanley Cup in 2016.
The New York Rangers traded Pouliot to Chicago in March 2026.
The Blackhawks placed the defenseman on waivers on September 21, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This roster move reflects the ongoing process of managing organizational depth and integrating veteran experience within the AHL. The decision impact how the organization balances its long-term defensive development with the immediate needs of the Rockford IceHogs roster.
Pouliot must clear waivers before he can be assigned to the Rockford IceHogs. His status will determine whether the organization maintains his current depth in the AHL rotation.
The takeaway
Roster management through waivers is a standard procedure for NHL clubs to navigate salary cap and active roster limitations. Fans should monitor league transactions to see if Pouliot remains within the organization or joins a new franchise.
Further reading
For more on roster updates and team news, visit Chicago Hockey.
Live Poll
Should your local team prioritize veteran players over younger talent to reach the playoffs?
