Tomas Kopecky is open to a reunion with the Chicago Blackhawks, reports ESPN Chicago’s Scott Powers.
The unrestricted free agent said he would be interested in rejoining the Blackhawks, citing head coach Joel Quenneville as the best he’s ever played for.
Kopekcy played two seasons for the Hawks from 2009 to 2011, tallying a career-high 42 points in 2010-11 after winning the Stanley Cup in 2010 — the second of his career. The Slovak skater joined the Hawks on a two-year deal in July of 2009 worth $1.2 million.
The 33-year-old spent the last four season with the Florida Panthers, who opted not to re-sign him or fellow veteran forward Scottie Upshall earlier this summer. The Panthers acquired Kopecky in a trade in June of 2011 in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick. Two days later, the Panthers signed him to a four-year deal worth $12 million.
Kopecky recorded 31 goals and 48 assists for 79 points during his four seasons in Florida. Last session, he had just two goals and six assists through 64 games.
The Hawks have about $230,000 in cap space with restricted free agent Marcus Kruger and Joakim Nordstrom still unsigned.