The Chicago Blackhawks sign forward Cole Smith to a three-year free-agent contract worth $9 million, according to reports published on the first day of the NHL free agency period. Multiple outlets identify the deal as being reported by Frank Seravalli. The contract is set to run through the 2028-29 season. Smith, 30, previously played for the Vegas Golden Knights, and he is described as having contributed recently for the club before moving to Chicago. Smith is also noted as a former University of North Dakota (UND) winger from Brainerd, Minnesota. One report characterizes the signing as adding depth to the team’s lower lines, describing Smith as part of the Blackhawks’ bottom-six group. The outlets do not provide additional contract details beyond the length and total value, nor do they specify further team or role expectations beyond that depth framing. The agreement takes effect as part of the Blackhawks’ roster additions during the opening window of free agency.