On the Chicago Blackhawks …
Chris Hine of the Chicago Tribune: After re-signing Richard Panik to a two-year deal, it was obvious that the Chicago Blackhawks need to make some moves for salary cap purposes.
It’s not going to be easy for GM Stan Bowman as many of their big contract also have no-movement clauses. looks at teams that might be able to make a deal with the Blackhawks for players that have a no-movement clause.
Vegas Golden Knights – The Blackhawks might want the Golden Knights to take Marcus Kruger, but if they don’t, maybe the Blackhawks could see if Marian Hossa or Brent Seabrook would waive their NMC to go to Vegas.
Carolina Hurricanes – The Hurricanes have over $27 million in cap space and have a history of taking Blackhawks cap hits – Bryan Bickell and Kris Versteeg. With a young blue line, would they be interested in some veteran experience?
Toronto Maple Leafs – Will have at least $12 million in cap space and might be looking to improve their defense. Would any of the Blackhawks veterans be open to a trade to Toronto? The Blackhawks have had their eye on James van Riemsdyk, who carries a $4.25 million cap hit next year before becoming a UFA.
The Florida Panthers have some cap space and they currently have four defensemen who need new contracts.
The Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, Winnipeg Jets and Dallas Stars also have cap space and are looking to get back into the playoffs.
Brent Seabrook, Duncan Keith, Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Marian Hossa and Artem Anisimov have no-movement clauses.
Niklas Hjalmarsson has a partial no-movement clause – list of 10 teams he’d accept a trade to.
Marcus Kruger and is $3.1 salary is the most likely to be moved, though they may have to sweeten the pot with a prospect or draft pick.
Marian Hossa has a NMC and has four years left on his deal with a $5.275 million cap hit, but only has a salary of $1 million per season for the remainder of his deal.
The Blackhawks may think they have potential second line centers in Nick Schmaltz and Tanner Kero. There have been rumors of Anisimov on the trade block due to his good contract and production.
Seabrook will be under contract until he’s 39 and carries a $6.875 million cap hit. He’d be tough to move.