Blackhawks Are Officially in Talks to Move This First Round Draft Pick

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Sam Walker
June 8, 2023 (5:10 PM)

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The Blackhawks, known for operating at the salary cap ceiling, are now focused on a rebuild. GM Kyle Davidson prioritizes long-term financial flexibility. With $37.5 million in cap space, second-highest in the league, they aim to acquire assets.

Davidson has officially stated he has started discussions moving the 19th overall pick in exchange for a higher pick, and os aware of the flat cap and teams in tight spots.

"I have no concern about getting to the cap floor; that's going to happen with general ease," Davidson said. "It's just how we get there will be an interesting road. There will be options, should we go into free agency, there's options via trade, whether there's players we proactively go out and get, or contracts people are looking to move. I'm open to anything.

They gained second-round picks in previous trades and are open to helping playoff contenders unload salary. Reaching the cap floor isn't a concern. Darren Pang joins the broadcast booth, and Davidson is open to trading their 19th overall pick. The team has ample cap flexibility and will navigate spending constraints.

"I guess ideally, if you can get value for your cap space, then sure," Davidson said. "But I don't know if that's going to be available to us. And I don't think we'll spend to the cap, that would be pretty tough given our situation and the contracts we have on the books. But I like where we're at from a cap perspective � we've got tons of flexibility moving forward; we've got tons of flexibility this year."