Attacking the potential trade routes of the Cat.
With the rumors flying that Alex Debrincat is on the market, what could the trade look like? With Debrincat's contract up in 2023, it is not unlikely that the Blackhawks could trade him given that interest that has sparked amongst the league.
Earlier this year the Blackhawks traded Brandon Hagel, where they received two forwards and 2 first round picks. This is a potential route that the Blackhawks could take, since Hagel was on the Blackhawks for around the same time as Debrincat. And least to say many fans were upset over the Hagel trade which would be an expected reaction if Debrincat were to be traded.
However the trade of Jack Eichel from the Sabres is a similar situation to Debrincat. As both Eichel and Debrincat are high scoring shooters who got better with each year. So it makes sense as to why they would be traded at the height of their performance when the team could get the bigger benefit from the trade. Eichel was traded for a first and second round pick of the next two drafts, which is something the Blackhawks have relied on heavily the past few trades in hopes to aid their rebuild. Buffalo also picked up Peyton Kerbs and Alex Tuch, both of which performed better with the Sabres than their previous teams. Making it a successful trade on both ends.
However, trading one of the top scorers of a team is a big gamble if the team will receive someone who's as well of a fit. Especially with Debrincat and Patrick Kane being on the same line and Kane stating he'd be inclined to stay if Debrincat stayed. The franchise could suffer from the loss of one if not two fan favorites. Since Debrincat isn't tied to a long term contract yet it is likely that he or the Blackhawks will take the best offer that comes their way.
