Six Chicago Blackhawks Land on The Teams Trade Block
During the latter part of the 2023-2024 regular season, the Chicago Blackhawks are dead last in the NHL standings.
Along with a dismal defense, the offensive output is not enough to keep the team in the win column.
This is great news for the 2024 NHL draft and Macklin Celebrini's chances, but it's not good news for the regular season.
As of now, Connor Bedard will likely not return until March and remains on injured reserve.
In addition to Patrick Kane's eventual return to the United Center, there are plenty of reasons to watch.
This group of 6 Blackhawks is likely to be moved by GM Kyle Davidson soon, so you can always watch and see what happens.
The list isn't vast but has some notable players who might be moved during the off-season or won't be re-signed.
"#NYR � I've wondered if they're gonna do two centers. One guy I've wondered about for them is a guy like Tyler Johnson. Lots of experience, doesn't make a ton of money."
� @FriedgeHNIC on latest 32 Thoughts
Listen here: https://t.co/PrfBxaonup� Phil Kocher (@PhilKocher) February 2, 2024
I would assume this means Tyler Johnson and Connor Murphy are ready to return after the All-Star break.
For those wondering why Guttman, remember he's the only depth player that's waivers exempt. #Blackhawks https://t.co/jKTgyj06qG� Gail Kauchak (@littlegailk) January 28, 2024
The team sent Cole Guttman back to Rockford ahead of Tyler Johnson's return to practice Monday. Frank Nazar's ascent is set to occur soon, and Johnson is 34, which makes re-signing him unlikely.
Nazar may sign his ELC very soon.
As Elliote Friedman has pointed out, the Rangers are interested in the center, since he has playoff experience.
Colin Blackwell has been playing exceptionally well since his return from injury and could potentially fetch a draft pick.
Although the Chicago Blackhawks might want to re-sign him, he could be a great depth addition for teams in need of help on their bottom six.
Additionally, the team has Joey Anderson, Landon Slaggert, and Gavin Hayes waiting in the wings, making it easy to part ways with Blackwell.
Boris Katchouk is another player whom the Blackhawks could potentially move on from, despite his confident return to NHL ice.
Katchouk posted four goals in Connor Bedard's absence, but the team has a deep prospect pool and AHL depth, so they can afford to let him go. The team has waived him before, making it easier to move on.
Mackenzie Entwistle and Reese Johnston are two other depth forwards who have speed and the ability to get under teams' skin every night.
However, the team has more prospects who could fill their roles as they have run their time out. Entwistle has had six years in the system and has shown the team what he is capable of, but it may not be enough.
Lastly, Nikita Zaitsev is a bad contract that the Blackhawks took on to receive a draft pick. Although he has had a decent season, there are many young defensemen in the pipeline waiting for their shot.
Similarly, Jarred Tinordi, who a playoff team will likely pick up, will not be re-signed during the offseason and will suffer the same fate as Zaitsev.
As Seen On: blackhawkup.com
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