Frequently Asked Questions
Which Blackhawks core players are most likely to be traded?
Brent Seabrook, Niklas Hjalmarsson, and Artem Anisimov are the most exposed core players who could be dealt. Jonathan Toews will definitely not be traded, and Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith, Artemi Panarin, and Corey Crawford are considered safe.
Why do the Blackhawks want to trade Brent Seabrook?
Seabrook's $6.875 million average annual salary is hampering the organization and he's shown signs of regression the past two seasons. He's 32 years old and entering the second year of a brutal eight-year extension that runs until 2024.
Which teams are interested in trading for Brent Seabrook?
The Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly interested in working out a deal for Seabrook. Vancouver has more than $17 million in salary cap space, while Toronto has a bit more than $12 million in cap room.
What would happen to Marcus Kruger?
All indications are that Kruger will end his seven-season tenure in Chicago and likely wind up with the Las Vegas expansion team. He has two years left on his contract at $3.083 million per season.
How would trading Niklas Hjalmarsson affect the Blackhawks?
While Hjalmarsson might present the most value to trade partners and shedding his $4.1 million salary would provide financial breathing room, it would deal a serious blow to Chicago's odds of winning it all next season. He still has two years remaining on his contract and is a great defender.