The Chicago Blackhawks are expected to make some significant moves this offseason, as they lay claim to significant cap space, a ton of draft capital and a host of young players that they can include in potential trades.
But will the Blackhawks actually do what fans are anticipating?
There has been quite a bit of speculation that Chicago might pursue an established scorer to put alongside of Connor Bedard up front, with big names names like Jason Robertson and Matthew Knies being floated as possibilities. But is that actually realistic?
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson opened up on the team’s trade avenues this offseason, and while many want to see Chicago pursue a high-octane winger, the reality of it is that the Blackhawks seem more focused on adding a defenseman.
Chicago Blackhawks’ Kyle Davidson makes intentions clear
Jun 28, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson makes the nineteenth pick in round one of the 2023 NHL Draft at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago traded away veteran defenseman Connor Murphy before the deadline this past season, and the unit struggled afterward.
For that reason, Davidson wants to add some more established talent to the blue line.
‘”It didn’t go quite the way we were hoping to give us that full shot in the arm, that ‘set it and forget it’ [feeling]. So it’s probably something we want to at least explore,” Davidson said, via Ben Pope of The Chicago Sun-Times.
While the Blackhawks absolutely should look to add a defenseman this summer, it’s certainly not the sexiest move that fans would have imagined. There is no question that Bedard could use some assistance up front, but Davidson didn’t really give any indication that Chicago is itching to provide it. At least not via trade.
Remember: the Blackhawks could always sign someone in free agency, and they’ve already been linked to Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch, who is slated to hit the open market.
Davidson also made it clear that he does not want to trade too many young players in one deal, so the chances of Chicago swinging a blockbuster trade for a star wing seem pretty slim. But again, that doesn’t mean the Blackhawks won’t try and dip into the free-agent pool.
We’ll probably get a clearer picture of Chicago’s strategy during the NHL Draft later this month.
Chicago Blackhawks linked to heartwarming move that fans would love
Read More
For More Great Chicago Sports Content
Get the latest Chicago sports news, analysis, and breaking stories on the Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs, White Sox, Sky, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News, so you never miss a story on your favorite Chicago teams.
Follow us on Twitter at @chicitysports23 for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Chicago sports news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE