The Chicago Blackhawks freed up more than $3 million in cap space last week by demoting left winger Rostislav Olesz to the minors.
Adam L. Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times reported GM Stan Bowman now has $6-7 million to use if needed to add more depth to his lineup.
Bowman admitted to keeping an eye on some players, though he didn't specify which ones. He said no teams are ready to give up on their season at this point in time and despite the rumors, he's not working on any deals right now.
Jahns believes Bowman will fill his extra cap space near the trade deadline, when non-playoff clubs traditionally shop players they can't afford to re-sign.
Despite back-to-back losses to Calgary and Edmonton Friday and Saturday, the Blackhawks remain near the top of the Western Conference, so Bowman isn't under pressure to make any trades.
There was talk he was seeking a third-line center, but the return of Dave Bolland from injury addresses that issue.
NHL.com correspondent Brian Hedger also reported he'd been told by an insider the Blackhawks signed goaltender Ray Emery primarily for his trade value. Hedger wondered if the Toronto Maple Leafs were interested.
Currently sidelined Leafs starter James Reimer is expected to return to action by week's end, so until then Toronto will likely stick with the current tandem of Jonas Gustavsson and Ben Scrivens.
oh but he plays the boards well. 
