Ton
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The rumor wheels are spinning something fierce and Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman certainly will have his hands full in the 2012 edition of the trade deadline. Unfortunately for Bowman, this deadline may prove to be one of the most expensive markets due to the limited amount of options on the table.
Very few teams are willing to sell and there are an incredible amount of teams willing to buy. Most teams are interested in acquiring a top-six forward along with a top-four defenseman. To be more specific, "most teams" means "more than half the NHL"... which could mean many organizations along with their fans could be left disappointed and empty-handed following the deadline.
Of course, Bowman is in the market for both of them so if he's going to swing any deals he'll have to pay up to beat his competitors.
FORWARD CANDIDATES
DERICK BRASSARD
CENTER | COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/brassard_derick.jpg[/float]Despite the GM Scott Howson denying rumors of trading his young center after his recent resurgence under interim coach Todd Richards, it is believed that the Blackhawks have interest in acquiring him to solidify the position. Weeks ago, Brassards agent blasted Scott Arniel for scratching him and using him as a scapegoat for the Blue Jackets woes:
“While I have tremendous respect for Howson and rest of Columbus’ management team, the situation regarding Brassard has become untenable... This coach has a history of burying players and using them as scapegoats to mask his own lack of success on the ice... Derick has been singled out, almost from the very beginning of the season to be the fall guy in case things don’t go well.”
This outburst instantly produced waves of trade chatter throughout the NHL, but since then the water has calmed down. But, as they say, the water is always calmest before the storm.
Weeks ago, Stan Bowman admitted that he was in the hunt for a center, although denied that a deal was imminent.
"Ideally, I’d like to find a center-man. It doesn't have to be a top center-man, but somebody that can play and complement top players."
TON'S TAKE: Last year Brassard played on the top line for a good portion of the year with Rick Nash and had 47 points in 74 games so he does have experience playing with top players and might compliment the Blackhawks core nicely. It's very unlikely that two teams within the division make a blockbuster trade with each other, but this may be a case that both teams are comfortable that the return will help their side. If something is going to happen regarding Brassard and the Blackhawks, expect the Blue Jackets to get fair value for the upcoming star.
SAM GAGNER
CENTER | EDMONTON OILERS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/gagner_sam.jpg[/float] The Oilers have been waiting for Sam to step up his production for several years now and with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins quickly surpassing him on the depth chart they have clearly put him on the table for anyone willing to pay the price for him.
However, with Nugent-Hopkins sidelined due to injury, the Oilers may not feel rushed to weaken their center depth by dealing Gagner. Until Nugent-Hopkins returns, Sam may find himself safe for the time being.
His contract expires after this season where he will enter RFA status (Restricted Free Agent) so if he does end up elsewhere the option to keep him is available. Gagner will be an attractive buy throughout the NHL so his price could be higher than the Blackhawks are willing to pay at this time.
It won't be easy to land Gagner, he's still young and could take a significant offer for the Oilers to part ways with him. Although they are actively shopping him they are in no desperate need to deal him yet and seemingly hold the cards.
TON'S TAKE: His price might be high but if they feel Patrick Kane might benefit from rekindling his London connection it would be a very easy decision to make. Not only would this help Kane get on track but potentially elevating Gagners production as well to provide the 2nd line center the club keeps searching for year after year. I suppose as long as Patrick Kane remains in Chicago, Sam Gagner will be tied to the Blackhawks trade rumor mill. Here's my problem... what do the Oilers want?
DEREK ROY
CENTER | BUFFALO SABRES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/roy_derek.jpg[/float]The Sabres are in need of something fierce and Derek Roy is among the top candidates to be dealt. Although Buffalo GM Darcy Regier has been notoriously quiet for deadline deals during his entire career this may be the first time he feels pressure to make a big splash with super-fan Terry Pegula taking over the team.
In addition to the teams struggles, Derek Roy has seen his production dip in his own right. With only 25 points in 43 games, Roy has been a scapegoat for the falling Sabres in good reason. Prior to this season, Roy has totaled 318 points in 350 games the past 5 seasons so a change of scenery could do him well especially if he is injected into the Blackhawks core.
His contract extends until the end of the 2014 season at a cap hit of $4 million so the Blackhawks would have to prepare for commitment after this season. Despite the centers struggles, he still may have a high price tag and doesn't plan on letting the rumor mill effect his game.
"It's fine. It's whatever people say," Roy told Buffalo News. "You can't worry about it and do anything about it. You have to go out and play your game. Everyone here is trying to do their job, whether it's stopping the puck, playing defense and scoring goals. We all have to do our part."
Although goaltending has been widely criticized on behalf of Buffalo they seem to lack the energy and character to push forward and win games, something that Chicago has in bunches--a plethora of NHL ready players to give them a hopeful future.
TON'S TAKE: Buffalo seems fairly confused on where they stand as an organization. Do they rebuild? Do they patch up the holes? Regardless they will know what they want by the deadline and if they want youth the Blackhawks will provide--but if they want a star to replace his production the Hawks are not in a position to deal for him. That said, I honestly doubt Roy will end up in a Blackhawk uniform this season and I have a hard time believing that he will be in a different NHL uniform after the deadline passes anyway. The timing seems off and dealing someone like Roy won't solve their problems but perhaps create a bigger hole for them... his trade value has simply plummeted along with the team in the standings.
BRAD BOYES
WING/CENTER | BUFFALO SABRES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/boyes_brad.jpg[/float]Another disappointment in Buffalo has been former 40-goal scorer Brad Boyes. The Sabres would love to unload his contract and surely Brad would welcome a change of scenery as well. It's quite clear that Boyes just simply has not worked out for the Sabres, who acquired him last year around the deadline. Only notching 8 goals in 56 games for Buffalo since acquiring him is a far-cry from his production in St. Louis, but at 29 years old he should have something left in the tank to provide another team.
Although it's unlikely he will regain his 40-goal touch anytime soon, Boyes has been a productive player in the past and could help the Blackhawks power-play as well as potentially fitting into the top-six. Currently, he is filling the left-wing slot for Buffalo but throughout his career he has bounced around the line-up providing versatility for any team he plays with at any forward position.
Brads contract is set to expire after this season which is bound to make him attractive to several teams in the hunt for a potential top-six forward.
TON'S TAKE: Might not be a bad option if he can regain his productivity. Considering he will be in a winning environment and playing with top-caliber players probably will help him more than anyone in Buffalo can. He is currently lining up with Ville Leino and Drew Stafford... two players that would have a hard time sticking on the 3rd line in Chicago, let alone top-six material.
TRAVIS MOEN
LEFT WING | MONTREAL CANADIENS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/moen_travis.jpg[/float]The Canadiens implosion has come to no end and with their playoff hopes dying with every passing day they have some pieces they are willing to sell. They have already started to pawn off parts of their roster by sending disgruntled Mike Cammalleri to the Calgary Flames.
Along with Moen, Montreal seems to be dangling a mix of defense along with a crop of forwards for bait in the form of Hal Gill, Chris Campoli, Yannick Weber, Andrei Kostitsyn and Mathieu Darche. It is believed that the Canadiens are trying to strike a deal with Moen to extend his contract beyond this season, so it's very likely that he will stay in Montreal. However, if they cannot agree to any terms then they will shop him before the deadline.
The Blackhawks hopes of acquiring Moen hinge on the fact that him and Montreal will not be able to sign him. If that is the case, he may be had for a smaller price than someone such as Brassard or Roy can command on the trade market, making him a viable option for the Blackhawks.
TON'S TAKE: I can't be the only one to think a Moen for Bickell swap would seem like a good idea for both sides. Although Bickell has struggled this year he still has potential to produce, he's young and his cap hit is more than reasonable with one more year left on the deal. Moen would help solidify the Hawks depth and improve their PK. Although he isn't a center, he would help fill some depth on the bottom two lines and fill a role that neither Bickell or Frolik can provide for the Blackhawks. Although Moen isn't considered strong depth scorer, that isn't necessarily a big need for the Blackhawks considering they are at the top of the NHL in offense. His defensive game, however, will help the Blackhawks more-so than any goal production will.
TUOMO RUUTU
LEFT WING | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/ruutu_tuomo.jpg[/float]The former 1st round pick (9th overall) by Chicago in the 2001 draft has found himself in an interesting scenario that may have been familiar back in 2008: His contract is expiring, and he's back on the trade market.
Since leaving Chicago, Ruutu has scored 78 goals in 283 games for the Hurricanes including his team-leading 15 goals so far this season. The gritty left-winger clearly gives the Blackhawks the sandpaper they lack and providing some goal-scoring touch won't hurt either.
Of course, the timing could not be better for the Hurricanes as his value is probably as high as it ever will be for Ruutu. Although his contract is expiring after this season they will look to get a good return for him.
TON'S TAKE: Ahh, the sauna isn't the only thing running hot for Ruutu, the rumors are heating up, and it's only natural for the Blackhawks to be involved. Unfortunately, it seems as if Detroit is in hot pursuit of Tuomo as well, enough to make any Blackhawks fan want to vomit at the sight of it. If we can grab Ruutu it would be like killing three or four birds with one stone, not only do we fill our needs for a gritty two-way player along with solidifying out depth at left wing and not to mention, can provide depth scoring... but we'll steal a player that the Wings covet.
DEFENSE CANDIDATES
TIM GLEASON
DEFENSE | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/gleason_tim.jpg[/float]The Hurricanes have not changed their stance on triggering a fire-sale near the trade deadline and Tim Gleason is among the top candidates to go. There has been rumors of expressed interest by the Blackhawks and the Hurricanes are no stranger to dealing with Chicago in the past.
Bowman has noted that the Blackhawks need depth defensively and Gleason may be a perfect fit for the needs he is trying to fulfill.
"We're kind of looking for a guy that is playing top four on another team but maybe on our team doesn't have to play in that role," Bowman told ESPN. "We'd like to upgrade on our third pairing."
Reading between the lines, it sounds like Bowman would rather not see Sean O'Donnell, John Scott or Sami Lepisto play for the Blackhawks again this season.
TON'S TAKE: Gleason seems to fit Bowmans model to a tee. Who can blame him for trying to grab another defenseman? Most teams in the league are looking for defensive help so this might drive the price of Gleason a bit higher than he normally would be. The good thing is his cap hit is more than reasonable and his contract expires at the end of the season.
BRYAN ALLEN
DEFENSE | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/allen_bryan.jpg[/float]With Justin Faulk, Jay Harrison and Joni Pitkanen signed to contracts beyond this season as well as Jamie McBann needing a new contract after this season, it seems as if the Hurricanes will need to decide which of the UFA trio needs to go: Tim Gleason, Jaroslav Spacek, or Bryan Allen. If the Hurricanes have no desire to deal Gleason, Bryan Allen or Jaroslav Spacek could be the next in line for many teams wishlist considering his contract expires at the end of this season.
Allen, a towering 6-5 defenseman, plays a solid stay-at-home style with enough physical presence to his game that the Blackhawks could use--especially on the penalty-kill.
His contract includes a no-trade clause, but with his contract ending this season, the soon-to-be UFA is expected to waive his clause to join a playoff bound team in order to boost his value for an upcoming contract.
Although Allen may not be considered a premier defenseman, he seems to fit what Bowman could be looking for in his bottom pairing.
TON'S TAKE: Allen would be a good option for the 3rd pairing, almost like a hybrid of all three defenseman that currently jam the 6th spot. Allen could provide use in a lot of areas, shot blocking, hitting, long reach, and enough mobility to play a shut-down role.
LUKE SCHENN
DEFENSE | TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/schenn_luke.jpg[/float]Burke has made it well known that he is not actively shopping Schenn, but did not rule out the possibility of dealing the young blueliner.
"I told Luke it's not a guarantee that he wouldn't be traded if something materializes, but we're not in trade discussions with any team about him right now," Burke told the National Post. "We haven't offered him to anybody. I don't know where the rumours started. I told him that's not happening."
"We're getting a lot of calls and we're listening," he said. "But that's very different than offering a player. Fielding a phone call on a player is very different than making a phone call on a player."
It is speculated that it would take a significant offer to land Schenn. The Leafs are in the market for a big forward and could be eyeing Flyers forwards Wayne Simmonds along with James van Riemsdyk. It is also believed that they have expressed interest in Ryan Malone of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Bobby Ryan of the Anaheim Ducks.
"That's the danger when you say right now nothing's close," Burke said. "That can change with a phone call. That can change in 24 hours."
It's quite clear that Burke plans on being active before the deadline, but no ties have been made to the Blackhawks.
TON'S TAKE: I don't think the Blackhawks have anything Burke wants, if anything I can see Luke Schenn landing in Philadelphia. It's known that the Flyers have been scouting the Leafs for several weeks now and considering his brother Brayden is also part of the Flyers organization, expect it to fuel the fire even further. Either way, while Luke would be a nice addition to the Blackhawks it's doubtful that he will make his way to Chicago--they just can't afford to give up the pieces necessary to acquire him and Burke is done rebuilding. He wants an immediate impact.
FRANCOIS BEAUCHEMIN
DEFENSE | ANAHEIM DUCKS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/beauchemin_francois.jpg[/float]Interestingly enough, despite the whirling rumor mill that revolves around the Anaheim Ducks, GM Bob Murray has kept himself fairly tight lipped on the trade front. For the most part it is speculated that nearly anyone on the roster is available for the right price and Beauchemin has been a hot trade candidate for the last few years.
The Ducks recently extended Beauchemin for another 3 years including a NMC (No-Movement Clause) in his contract. Considering this new piece of information it may be safe to assume that he is off the trade market despite the Blackhawks assumed interest in him.
TON'S TAKE: There aren't very many defenseman available that satisfy the steady needs the Blackhawks are looking for. Unfortunately, his contract extension pretty much kills any possibility of being available. The worst part about this is that another solid defenseman is off the market, nearly every team that plans on contending for the Stanley Cup is vying to acquire a top-four defenseman... with Beauchemin off the market this just makes it harder for the Blackhawks to create a package for a similar defenseman.
CHRIS CAMPOLI
DEFENSE | MONTREAL CANADIENS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/campoli_chris.jpg[/float] Chris has been a healthy scratch in Montreal after signing a one-year contract with them last summer while the Blackhawks walked away from his arbitration award. The Canadiens, to put it simply, are a mess from top to bottom. If they are so deep defensively that they can afford to scratch Chris Campoli, well some team certainly will be thrown a bone at the deadline.
Despite the perception that he potentially burned his bridge to Chicago by taking the team to arbitration last summer, it has been said that they may have expressed interest in acquiring him at the deadline yet again. His struggles in Montreal along with the fact that he is familiar with the Blackhawks system may prove to be a welcomed change of scenery for him.
TON'S TAKE: I'm not sure this one is easy to believe, but it is what it is. I can't put my finger on why Montreal would go as far as scratching him from the line-up, but this is the same city that wanted to kick Randy Cunneyworth out of the city because he isn't French-Canadian. The fickleness of the fan base seems to reject non-French speaking players like a bad organ, I doubt Campoli is considered a cancer to their locker room but it's quite clear he doesn't fit. Last year he seemed to mesh well into the Blackhawks line-up and if they are looking for familiarity with Joel Quenneville and his system perhaps he might get another kick at the can.
BLACKHAWK BAIT
Of course, the Blackhawks must be willing to give something in order to get something. Here are a few names that may be on the block:
BRYAN BICKELL
It's no secret that Bickell has struggled this season and perhaps a change of scenery would help him out. Although teams aren't necessarily lining up for his services, he could be used as a trade chip in a bigger deal or flipped for a draft pick before the deadline. Teams will be willing to take a chance on him with another year on his contract at a low cap hit. With the emergence of Andrew Shaw along with Jimmy Hayes and Ben Smith, Bryan has been relegated to press box duties for the time being--even with Sharp injured.
MICHAEL FROLIK
Another disappointing Blackhawk that has his head on the block is Michael Frolik. Still at the ripe age of 23, Frolik certainly has gone through his own set of growing pains this season.
Even though Frolik has potential to produce, he may be harder to unload than Bickell simply due to his steep cap hit at $2.3M for the next 2 years after this season. It will be hard to find a team willing to gamble those numbers based on potential, but if anyone out there is remotely interested then Stan Bowman would be wise to sweeten the pot and cut his losses.
VIKTOR STALBERG
Perhaps the most coveted trade bait the Blackhawks have is Viktor Stalberg. The young forward has enjoyed a breakout season, becoming one of the top 5 producers for the Blackhawks and a key component to the game plan.
I doubt Bowman is looking to move someone like Stalberg but surely teams are asking about him as a center piece in any deal Bowman is trying to strike up. If Stalberg is the guy to land someone of a high caliber, it may be hard to turn the cheek. On the other hand, Viktor has shown inseparable chemistry with Jonathan Toews and that might be enough reason alone to keep him in the Indian head. This will be a tough decision for Stan as the interest level is high and there might be a team out there willing to give him an offer he simply can't refuse.
IN THE SYSTEM
Stan Bowman will most-likely look for a deal that will involve prospects and picks going the other way. Most teams that are selling will want youth and NHL-ready players... something that Bowman has a plethora of in Rockford as well as Chicago. Marcus Kruger, Ben Smith, Jimmy Hayes, and Andrew Shaw will also gain a lot of interest but one has to have the feeling that at least two of them are safe for the time being. The Blackhawks are very high on Kruger, so don't expect him to go anywhere. Shaw and Hayes have filled in the missing puzzle pieces nicely, both have shown enough chemistry to keep them in a Chicago uniform.
Among other names in the pipeline that may be NHL-ready talent, Jeremy Morin comes to mind along with Brandon Pirri. Both have seen NHL action this season due to injury but in Morins case it seemed like they were showcasing him by placing him on the top line with Jonathan Toews despite his lack of production. Pirri was able to notch 2 assists in 5 games along with a plus-2 rating; recently recalled with Toews out.
Dylan Olsen along with Shawn Lalonde or Brian Connelly may gain some interest depending on whether the opposing club needs to shore up on defense. Brian Connelly seems to be gaining interest around the league as his career grows, he may never get a chance in Chicago so it may be the perfect opportunity to move him while his value is high.
Players such as Brandon Saad, Kevin Hayes, David Gilbert, Mark McNeill, Phillip Danault, Adam Clendening, Stephen Johns and Justin Holl round out the list of players that are still developing raw talent but show enough potential to gain interest.
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Very few teams are willing to sell and there are an incredible amount of teams willing to buy. Most teams are interested in acquiring a top-six forward along with a top-four defenseman. To be more specific, "most teams" means "more than half the NHL"... which could mean many organizations along with their fans could be left disappointed and empty-handed following the deadline.
Of course, Bowman is in the market for both of them so if he's going to swing any deals he'll have to pay up to beat his competitors.
FORWARD CANDIDATES
DERICK BRASSARD
CENTER | COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/brassard_derick.jpg[/float]Despite the GM Scott Howson denying rumors of trading his young center after his recent resurgence under interim coach Todd Richards, it is believed that the Blackhawks have interest in acquiring him to solidify the position. Weeks ago, Brassards agent blasted Scott Arniel for scratching him and using him as a scapegoat for the Blue Jackets woes:
“While I have tremendous respect for Howson and rest of Columbus’ management team, the situation regarding Brassard has become untenable... This coach has a history of burying players and using them as scapegoats to mask his own lack of success on the ice... Derick has been singled out, almost from the very beginning of the season to be the fall guy in case things don’t go well.”
This outburst instantly produced waves of trade chatter throughout the NHL, but since then the water has calmed down. But, as they say, the water is always calmest before the storm.
Weeks ago, Stan Bowman admitted that he was in the hunt for a center, although denied that a deal was imminent.
"Ideally, I’d like to find a center-man. It doesn't have to be a top center-man, but somebody that can play and complement top players."
TON'S TAKE: Last year Brassard played on the top line for a good portion of the year with Rick Nash and had 47 points in 74 games so he does have experience playing with top players and might compliment the Blackhawks core nicely. It's very unlikely that two teams within the division make a blockbuster trade with each other, but this may be a case that both teams are comfortable that the return will help their side. If something is going to happen regarding Brassard and the Blackhawks, expect the Blue Jackets to get fair value for the upcoming star.
SAM GAGNER
CENTER | EDMONTON OILERS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/gagner_sam.jpg[/float] The Oilers have been waiting for Sam to step up his production for several years now and with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins quickly surpassing him on the depth chart they have clearly put him on the table for anyone willing to pay the price for him.
However, with Nugent-Hopkins sidelined due to injury, the Oilers may not feel rushed to weaken their center depth by dealing Gagner. Until Nugent-Hopkins returns, Sam may find himself safe for the time being.
His contract expires after this season where he will enter RFA status (Restricted Free Agent) so if he does end up elsewhere the option to keep him is available. Gagner will be an attractive buy throughout the NHL so his price could be higher than the Blackhawks are willing to pay at this time.
It won't be easy to land Gagner, he's still young and could take a significant offer for the Oilers to part ways with him. Although they are actively shopping him they are in no desperate need to deal him yet and seemingly hold the cards.
TON'S TAKE: His price might be high but if they feel Patrick Kane might benefit from rekindling his London connection it would be a very easy decision to make. Not only would this help Kane get on track but potentially elevating Gagners production as well to provide the 2nd line center the club keeps searching for year after year. I suppose as long as Patrick Kane remains in Chicago, Sam Gagner will be tied to the Blackhawks trade rumor mill. Here's my problem... what do the Oilers want?
DEREK ROY
CENTER | BUFFALO SABRES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/roy_derek.jpg[/float]The Sabres are in need of something fierce and Derek Roy is among the top candidates to be dealt. Although Buffalo GM Darcy Regier has been notoriously quiet for deadline deals during his entire career this may be the first time he feels pressure to make a big splash with super-fan Terry Pegula taking over the team.
In addition to the teams struggles, Derek Roy has seen his production dip in his own right. With only 25 points in 43 games, Roy has been a scapegoat for the falling Sabres in good reason. Prior to this season, Roy has totaled 318 points in 350 games the past 5 seasons so a change of scenery could do him well especially if he is injected into the Blackhawks core.
His contract extends until the end of the 2014 season at a cap hit of $4 million so the Blackhawks would have to prepare for commitment after this season. Despite the centers struggles, he still may have a high price tag and doesn't plan on letting the rumor mill effect his game.
"It's fine. It's whatever people say," Roy told Buffalo News. "You can't worry about it and do anything about it. You have to go out and play your game. Everyone here is trying to do their job, whether it's stopping the puck, playing defense and scoring goals. We all have to do our part."
Although goaltending has been widely criticized on behalf of Buffalo they seem to lack the energy and character to push forward and win games, something that Chicago has in bunches--a plethora of NHL ready players to give them a hopeful future.
TON'S TAKE: Buffalo seems fairly confused on where they stand as an organization. Do they rebuild? Do they patch up the holes? Regardless they will know what they want by the deadline and if they want youth the Blackhawks will provide--but if they want a star to replace his production the Hawks are not in a position to deal for him. That said, I honestly doubt Roy will end up in a Blackhawk uniform this season and I have a hard time believing that he will be in a different NHL uniform after the deadline passes anyway. The timing seems off and dealing someone like Roy won't solve their problems but perhaps create a bigger hole for them... his trade value has simply plummeted along with the team in the standings.
BRAD BOYES
WING/CENTER | BUFFALO SABRES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/boyes_brad.jpg[/float]Another disappointment in Buffalo has been former 40-goal scorer Brad Boyes. The Sabres would love to unload his contract and surely Brad would welcome a change of scenery as well. It's quite clear that Boyes just simply has not worked out for the Sabres, who acquired him last year around the deadline. Only notching 8 goals in 56 games for Buffalo since acquiring him is a far-cry from his production in St. Louis, but at 29 years old he should have something left in the tank to provide another team.
Although it's unlikely he will regain his 40-goal touch anytime soon, Boyes has been a productive player in the past and could help the Blackhawks power-play as well as potentially fitting into the top-six. Currently, he is filling the left-wing slot for Buffalo but throughout his career he has bounced around the line-up providing versatility for any team he plays with at any forward position.
Brads contract is set to expire after this season which is bound to make him attractive to several teams in the hunt for a potential top-six forward.
TON'S TAKE: Might not be a bad option if he can regain his productivity. Considering he will be in a winning environment and playing with top-caliber players probably will help him more than anyone in Buffalo can. He is currently lining up with Ville Leino and Drew Stafford... two players that would have a hard time sticking on the 3rd line in Chicago, let alone top-six material.
TRAVIS MOEN
LEFT WING | MONTREAL CANADIENS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/moen_travis.jpg[/float]The Canadiens implosion has come to no end and with their playoff hopes dying with every passing day they have some pieces they are willing to sell. They have already started to pawn off parts of their roster by sending disgruntled Mike Cammalleri to the Calgary Flames.
Along with Moen, Montreal seems to be dangling a mix of defense along with a crop of forwards for bait in the form of Hal Gill, Chris Campoli, Yannick Weber, Andrei Kostitsyn and Mathieu Darche. It is believed that the Canadiens are trying to strike a deal with Moen to extend his contract beyond this season, so it's very likely that he will stay in Montreal. However, if they cannot agree to any terms then they will shop him before the deadline.
The Blackhawks hopes of acquiring Moen hinge on the fact that him and Montreal will not be able to sign him. If that is the case, he may be had for a smaller price than someone such as Brassard or Roy can command on the trade market, making him a viable option for the Blackhawks.
TON'S TAKE: I can't be the only one to think a Moen for Bickell swap would seem like a good idea for both sides. Although Bickell has struggled this year he still has potential to produce, he's young and his cap hit is more than reasonable with one more year left on the deal. Moen would help solidify the Hawks depth and improve their PK. Although he isn't a center, he would help fill some depth on the bottom two lines and fill a role that neither Bickell or Frolik can provide for the Blackhawks. Although Moen isn't considered strong depth scorer, that isn't necessarily a big need for the Blackhawks considering they are at the top of the NHL in offense. His defensive game, however, will help the Blackhawks more-so than any goal production will.
TUOMO RUUTU
LEFT WING | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/ruutu_tuomo.jpg[/float]The former 1st round pick (9th overall) by Chicago in the 2001 draft has found himself in an interesting scenario that may have been familiar back in 2008: His contract is expiring, and he's back on the trade market.
Since leaving Chicago, Ruutu has scored 78 goals in 283 games for the Hurricanes including his team-leading 15 goals so far this season. The gritty left-winger clearly gives the Blackhawks the sandpaper they lack and providing some goal-scoring touch won't hurt either.
Of course, the timing could not be better for the Hurricanes as his value is probably as high as it ever will be for Ruutu. Although his contract is expiring after this season they will look to get a good return for him.
TON'S TAKE: Ahh, the sauna isn't the only thing running hot for Ruutu, the rumors are heating up, and it's only natural for the Blackhawks to be involved. Unfortunately, it seems as if Detroit is in hot pursuit of Tuomo as well, enough to make any Blackhawks fan want to vomit at the sight of it. If we can grab Ruutu it would be like killing three or four birds with one stone, not only do we fill our needs for a gritty two-way player along with solidifying out depth at left wing and not to mention, can provide depth scoring... but we'll steal a player that the Wings covet.
DEFENSE CANDIDATES
TIM GLEASON
DEFENSE | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/gleason_tim.jpg[/float]The Hurricanes have not changed their stance on triggering a fire-sale near the trade deadline and Tim Gleason is among the top candidates to go. There has been rumors of expressed interest by the Blackhawks and the Hurricanes are no stranger to dealing with Chicago in the past.
Bowman has noted that the Blackhawks need depth defensively and Gleason may be a perfect fit for the needs he is trying to fulfill.
"We're kind of looking for a guy that is playing top four on another team but maybe on our team doesn't have to play in that role," Bowman told ESPN. "We'd like to upgrade on our third pairing."
Reading between the lines, it sounds like Bowman would rather not see Sean O'Donnell, John Scott or Sami Lepisto play for the Blackhawks again this season.
TON'S TAKE: Gleason seems to fit Bowmans model to a tee. Who can blame him for trying to grab another defenseman? Most teams in the league are looking for defensive help so this might drive the price of Gleason a bit higher than he normally would be. The good thing is his cap hit is more than reasonable and his contract expires at the end of the season.
BRYAN ALLEN
DEFENSE | CAROLINA HURRICANES
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/allen_bryan.jpg[/float]With Justin Faulk, Jay Harrison and Joni Pitkanen signed to contracts beyond this season as well as Jamie McBann needing a new contract after this season, it seems as if the Hurricanes will need to decide which of the UFA trio needs to go: Tim Gleason, Jaroslav Spacek, or Bryan Allen. If the Hurricanes have no desire to deal Gleason, Bryan Allen or Jaroslav Spacek could be the next in line for many teams wishlist considering his contract expires at the end of this season.
Allen, a towering 6-5 defenseman, plays a solid stay-at-home style with enough physical presence to his game that the Blackhawks could use--especially on the penalty-kill.
His contract includes a no-trade clause, but with his contract ending this season, the soon-to-be UFA is expected to waive his clause to join a playoff bound team in order to boost his value for an upcoming contract.
Although Allen may not be considered a premier defenseman, he seems to fit what Bowman could be looking for in his bottom pairing.
TON'S TAKE: Allen would be a good option for the 3rd pairing, almost like a hybrid of all three defenseman that currently jam the 6th spot. Allen could provide use in a lot of areas, shot blocking, hitting, long reach, and enough mobility to play a shut-down role.
LUKE SCHENN
DEFENSE | TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/schenn_luke.jpg[/float]Burke has made it well known that he is not actively shopping Schenn, but did not rule out the possibility of dealing the young blueliner.
"I told Luke it's not a guarantee that he wouldn't be traded if something materializes, but we're not in trade discussions with any team about him right now," Burke told the National Post. "We haven't offered him to anybody. I don't know where the rumours started. I told him that's not happening."
"We're getting a lot of calls and we're listening," he said. "But that's very different than offering a player. Fielding a phone call on a player is very different than making a phone call on a player."
It is speculated that it would take a significant offer to land Schenn. The Leafs are in the market for a big forward and could be eyeing Flyers forwards Wayne Simmonds along with James van Riemsdyk. It is also believed that they have expressed interest in Ryan Malone of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Bobby Ryan of the Anaheim Ducks.
"That's the danger when you say right now nothing's close," Burke said. "That can change with a phone call. That can change in 24 hours."
It's quite clear that Burke plans on being active before the deadline, but no ties have been made to the Blackhawks.
TON'S TAKE: I don't think the Blackhawks have anything Burke wants, if anything I can see Luke Schenn landing in Philadelphia. It's known that the Flyers have been scouting the Leafs for several weeks now and considering his brother Brayden is also part of the Flyers organization, expect it to fuel the fire even further. Either way, while Luke would be a nice addition to the Blackhawks it's doubtful that he will make his way to Chicago--they just can't afford to give up the pieces necessary to acquire him and Burke is done rebuilding. He wants an immediate impact.
FRANCOIS BEAUCHEMIN
DEFENSE | ANAHEIM DUCKS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/beauchemin_francois.jpg[/float]Interestingly enough, despite the whirling rumor mill that revolves around the Anaheim Ducks, GM Bob Murray has kept himself fairly tight lipped on the trade front. For the most part it is speculated that nearly anyone on the roster is available for the right price and Beauchemin has been a hot trade candidate for the last few years.
The Ducks recently extended Beauchemin for another 3 years including a NMC (No-Movement Clause) in his contract. Considering this new piece of information it may be safe to assume that he is off the trade market despite the Blackhawks assumed interest in him.
TON'S TAKE: There aren't very many defenseman available that satisfy the steady needs the Blackhawks are looking for. Unfortunately, his contract extension pretty much kills any possibility of being available. The worst part about this is that another solid defenseman is off the market, nearly every team that plans on contending for the Stanley Cup is vying to acquire a top-four defenseman... with Beauchemin off the market this just makes it harder for the Blackhawks to create a package for a similar defenseman.
CHRIS CAMPOLI
DEFENSE | MONTREAL CANADIENS
[float=left]http://www.indianheadnation.com/ccs_files/Player%20Cards/campoli_chris.jpg[/float] Chris has been a healthy scratch in Montreal after signing a one-year contract with them last summer while the Blackhawks walked away from his arbitration award. The Canadiens, to put it simply, are a mess from top to bottom. If they are so deep defensively that they can afford to scratch Chris Campoli, well some team certainly will be thrown a bone at the deadline.
Despite the perception that he potentially burned his bridge to Chicago by taking the team to arbitration last summer, it has been said that they may have expressed interest in acquiring him at the deadline yet again. His struggles in Montreal along with the fact that he is familiar with the Blackhawks system may prove to be a welcomed change of scenery for him.
TON'S TAKE: I'm not sure this one is easy to believe, but it is what it is. I can't put my finger on why Montreal would go as far as scratching him from the line-up, but this is the same city that wanted to kick Randy Cunneyworth out of the city because he isn't French-Canadian. The fickleness of the fan base seems to reject non-French speaking players like a bad organ, I doubt Campoli is considered a cancer to their locker room but it's quite clear he doesn't fit. Last year he seemed to mesh well into the Blackhawks line-up and if they are looking for familiarity with Joel Quenneville and his system perhaps he might get another kick at the can.
BLACKHAWK BAIT
Of course, the Blackhawks must be willing to give something in order to get something. Here are a few names that may be on the block:
BRYAN BICKELL
It's no secret that Bickell has struggled this season and perhaps a change of scenery would help him out. Although teams aren't necessarily lining up for his services, he could be used as a trade chip in a bigger deal or flipped for a draft pick before the deadline. Teams will be willing to take a chance on him with another year on his contract at a low cap hit. With the emergence of Andrew Shaw along with Jimmy Hayes and Ben Smith, Bryan has been relegated to press box duties for the time being--even with Sharp injured.
MICHAEL FROLIK
Another disappointing Blackhawk that has his head on the block is Michael Frolik. Still at the ripe age of 23, Frolik certainly has gone through his own set of growing pains this season.
Even though Frolik has potential to produce, he may be harder to unload than Bickell simply due to his steep cap hit at $2.3M for the next 2 years after this season. It will be hard to find a team willing to gamble those numbers based on potential, but if anyone out there is remotely interested then Stan Bowman would be wise to sweeten the pot and cut his losses.
VIKTOR STALBERG
Perhaps the most coveted trade bait the Blackhawks have is Viktor Stalberg. The young forward has enjoyed a breakout season, becoming one of the top 5 producers for the Blackhawks and a key component to the game plan.
I doubt Bowman is looking to move someone like Stalberg but surely teams are asking about him as a center piece in any deal Bowman is trying to strike up. If Stalberg is the guy to land someone of a high caliber, it may be hard to turn the cheek. On the other hand, Viktor has shown inseparable chemistry with Jonathan Toews and that might be enough reason alone to keep him in the Indian head. This will be a tough decision for Stan as the interest level is high and there might be a team out there willing to give him an offer he simply can't refuse.
IN THE SYSTEM
Stan Bowman will most-likely look for a deal that will involve prospects and picks going the other way. Most teams that are selling will want youth and NHL-ready players... something that Bowman has a plethora of in Rockford as well as Chicago. Marcus Kruger, Ben Smith, Jimmy Hayes, and Andrew Shaw will also gain a lot of interest but one has to have the feeling that at least two of them are safe for the time being. The Blackhawks are very high on Kruger, so don't expect him to go anywhere. Shaw and Hayes have filled in the missing puzzle pieces nicely, both have shown enough chemistry to keep them in a Chicago uniform.
Among other names in the pipeline that may be NHL-ready talent, Jeremy Morin comes to mind along with Brandon Pirri. Both have seen NHL action this season due to injury but in Morins case it seemed like they were showcasing him by placing him on the top line with Jonathan Toews despite his lack of production. Pirri was able to notch 2 assists in 5 games along with a plus-2 rating; recently recalled with Toews out.
Dylan Olsen along with Shawn Lalonde or Brian Connelly may gain some interest depending on whether the opposing club needs to shore up on defense. Brian Connelly seems to be gaining interest around the league as his career grows, he may never get a chance in Chicago so it may be the perfect opportunity to move him while his value is high.
Players such as Brandon Saad, Kevin Hayes, David Gilbert, Mark McNeill, Phillip Danault, Adam Clendening, Stephen Johns and Justin Holl round out the list of players that are still developing raw talent but show enough potential to gain interest.
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