The Chicago Blackhawks should be open to trading any of their draft picks over the next two years
Scott Powers of The Athletic: The Chicago Blackhawks aren’t expecting winger Ivar Stenberg to drop to No. 4.
Pierre LeBrun reported last week that the Blackhawks are open to trading the fourth overall pick, and adds they’d likely be open to trading any of their draft picks over the next two drafts. Moving the No. 4 pick would obviously cost someone a lot, someone who is in their prime that an contribute for many years.
Don’t expect much info out of the Blackhawks, Connor Bedard contract talks.
NHL Rumors: Winnipeg Jets and Chicago Blackhawks
Should the Toronto Maple Leafs consider trading Matthew Knies?
Jonas Siegel of The Athletic: Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies has reportedly been a part of trade talks for years, dating back to 2022 when a deal with the Chicago Blackhawks was discussed. It involved Brandon Hagel and Marc-Andre Fleury. Two years ago, he was brought up in the Mikko Rantanen talks. At this past deadline, the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres were among the teams that inquired.
The Pros and Cons of Trading Knies.
Still only 23 years old, and having a younger group with Easton Cowan and maybe Gavin McKenna to complement Auston Matthews and William Nylander. Played through a knee injury and didn’t get as many high-danger chances, and a lower shooting percentage. A career high in points with 66 and time on ice. He’s a top-six winger who can throw some hits. Five years left at $7.75 could be a bargain
His trade value may be more than Matthews and Nylander given their no-movement clauses. He might be able to net the Leafs a top-notch defenseman or a centerman. If the Leafs could land Darren Raddysh or Rasmus Andersson, then it would be more reason to keep Knies.
It may not be smart to offer Knies for 36-year-old Romas Josi whenever the Nashville Predators get a GM. Someone like Zach Werenski would make more sense, if the Columbus Blue Jackets didn’t think Werenski would extend past his two years.
David Carle Declines Toronto’s Request, and Three Center Targets for the Philadelphia Flyers
What about New Jersey Devils forward Nico Hischier, who has a year left? Would need an extension in place, but he’d be a perfect second-line center.
If the Leafs could land an elite defenseman like Werenski, then they should do it. Trading for futures isn’t part of retool.
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