Transaction: The Washington Capitals Just Helped the Blackhawks in a Huge Way

GM Chris Patrick of the Washington Capitals was heading into this Friday's NHL trade deadline with two goaltenders available and unsigned, and now, they're both re-signed and not available.

This is huge for the Blackhawks, who have a goaltender on the move in Petr Mrazek, due to the acquisition of Spencer Knight.

With the Capitals re-signing both goaltenders, the trade market has slimmed down, leaving the Blackhawks will a chance at a higher return due to availability on the board.

The Blackhawks quickly had a decision to make this weekend when they acquired Knight in a trade for defenseman Seth Jones, and that decision has lead to Petr Mrazek being placed on the trade block.

Arvid Soderblom has rightfully so-owned the right to be deemed the Blackhawks' backup goaltender position as he's found his confidence in the net. He has put on several stellar performances and has pulled out wins against playoff teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, playing well above his $962,500 cap hit.

During last summer's free agency the Blackhawks signed Blackhawks signed Laurent Brossoit, a veteran and Stanley Cup Champion, due to Soderblom's poor play.

But now that Soderblom has found his path in the NHL, alongside the new #1 goalie in Chicago Spencer Knight, it is clear the two remaining goalies that the Blackhawks are keeping.

According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli and several other reports, Mrazek's days in Chicago are numbered.

As the Blackhawks gear up for a busy NHL trade deadline on March 7, fans can be assured that there is finally a solid, NHL caliber goaltending tandem backing up Connor Bedard and the upcoming future prospects.