I didn't bother to comment in the previous blog because the new one came up - but regarding the "rumor" the Hawks are interested in Phaneuf - poppycock I say. He has a cap hit of $7M for the next 4-5 years. Even if Toronto retained 50% and took on Bickell's $4M for this season and next - the Hawks would still have 3-4 years of $3.5M to fit under the cap. Now, Phaneuf at $3.5M would be a good deal - but even if the Hawks could figure out a way to make it work - Why the hell would Toronto agree to pay Phaneuf $3.5M to not play for them for that many years?

Poppycock!
- EbonyRaptor

Not that it would ever happen or be feasible from a salary standpoint, but a Phaneuf + JvR package would be quite the get and would alleviate any holes/concerns the team may have. Of course, it's not possible, but still worth a thought (?).

Never gonna happen. The chemistry Huberdeau and Barkov have created amongst themselves cements Huberdeau in Florida for a long time. Maybe earlier this season that would be a thing.. but even then Dano isn't enough to get Huberdeau. Pass.

JJ,

Great insight and some very nice players. I like Boedkerr but I am VERY intrigued by the former #3 overall pick Huberdeau. Bjugstad has been out and to maintain a +3 on the Panthers means that he is playing a responsible 200ft game. He would, however, be another pass-first player on a pass-happy team. Mikkal Boedker plays a much more north-south game which is what the Hawks need more of IMO. Also, anything coming to you about the validity of the Phaneuf to the Hawks rumor from this morning??

#7 defenseman and practice cone David Rundblad was sent to Rockford
- John Jaeckel

(frank)ing finally!

Never gonna happen. The chemistry Huberdeau and Barkov have created amongst themselves cements Huberdeau in Florida for a long time. Maybe earlier this season that would be a thing.. but even then Dano isn't enough to get Huberdeau. Pass.
- Panthers88

You always pass. You wouldn't take Kane for ______ on the Panthers

i dont see stanbow blowing picks and prospects for another UFA rental....rfa like boedker makes alot of sense
- bogiedoc

Yea since 2012 the hawks have moved:

2nd round pick (rundblad)
2nd round pick (oduya)
3rd round pick (oduya)
4th round pick (Handzus)
1st round pick (Vermette)
2nd round pick (Timonen)
2nd round pick (Timonen)
3rd round pick (Packaged with Vertseeg and Nordstrom in exchange for a 5th and two pylons)

Thats a boatload of high picks sending out the last 4 years.

Not saying Stan shouldnt do it again, just be sure they are going after someone they know can help. Not another gamble on someone like Timonen where the market is dictating the prices on crap players. If we are getting someone like Boedkker, great, Im all for it.

But if we are shelling out Timonen-esque or Runblad-esque prices for someone like Alex Tanguay, that will be another gamble IMO

We have tasted success with win-now moves which is great, but eventually the house is going to win when you keep blowing your top 3 rounds in draft picks.

I think that was the biggest shock about the Sharp trade, Stan opted for roster now replacements (which has obviously blown up) instead of the pure relief and future picks/prospects, which is what most speculated Stan was asking all along

John thx as always for keeping us the loop...

Boedker's stats 12g 16a and is a -9 (cap hit 3.75m) last year of deal

Huberdeau's stats 4g 19a and is a +3 (cap hit 3.2m) through next season

still need a #4 dman as well...we'll see what happens...
- DK002

I'd be surprised if Dale traded Huberdeau. Even if he was contemplating it last season or earlier this season, he probably isn't any longer because Florida is in 1st place in the Atlantic Division and although it's unlikely they will stay there - they are in the hunt and probably not looking to upset the apple cart.

I suppose the same logic applies to Arizona as they are currently in a playoff position and in the lousy Pacific they have a real shot to finish top-3.

I'd be surprised if Dale traded Huberdeau. Even if he was contemplating it last season or earlier this season because Florida is in 1st place in the Atlantic division and although it's unlikely they will stay there - they are in the hunt and probably not looking to upset the apple cart.

I suppose the same logic applies to Arizona as they are currently in a playoff position and in the lousy Pacific they have a real shot to finish top-3.
- EbonyRaptor

Teams dont trade top 6 forwards while sitting in 1st place unless they win that trade hand over fist to the point where they HAVE to make that deal

boedker will be an ufa. the info from the cap section on this site is incorrect.
- Tumbleweed

i was looking to confirm his status...jj ided him as a UFA...thanks...

in that case stanbow not giving picks etc unless he resigns him which means more $$ have to go out the rear door

JJ,

Great insight and some very nice players. I like Boedkerr but I am VERY intrigued by the former #3 overall pick Huberdeau. Bjugstad has been out and to maintain a +3 on the Panthers means that he is playing a responsible 200ft game. He would, however, be another pass-first player on a pass-happy team. Mikkal Boedker plays a much more north-south game which is what the Hawks need more of IMO. Also, anything coming to you about the validity of the Phaneuf to the Hawks rumor from this morning??
- EnzoD

Tallon is in a position to make the playoffs and needs to... He is looking to add not subtract.

As I have said all along, Andrew Shaw is a part of this core. You win championships with players like him, and there would be a huge loss if the Hawks traded him this summer just to free up another million or so in Cap space. Shaw isn't a legitimate 1st line LW, but he can play anywhere and not look out of place. GREAT KID!

Very happy to finally see Bowman accept his mistake and option Runblad to Rockford. As I posted this summer, Bowman rushing out to resign both Runblad and Rozy were STUPID moves, which were built off of poor decisions to acquire Runblad and extend Rozy in the first place. The Hawks MGT are sold on Guftasson and the Coaches like his combination of skill and moxy. As JJ said, he's coming back to play regularly, not sit.

Besides JJ, did anyone else notice how Scuderi's play has dropped off the last two games? Besides not possessing a lot speed in his game, it also appears that Scuderi's body is resisting his mind. He's a VERY smart NHL DMan and yet he is taking "forever" to make relatively simple decisions. I don't think he is healthy right now and the Hawks needed to make some kind of move as Rozy hasn't been good either.

Here's a rumour for you that simply won't die. I was told yet again this morning that the Hawks are still working on something with the Hurricanes. Notice how both Skinner and Bickell possessed more jump and spark in their games last night? I was told that Ron Francis would like to add the Hawks 1st round pick for this summer and isn't opposed to taking Bickell for the rest of the season and then buy him out during the window in June.

Also, I can add that there's a lot to JJ's rumour about the Hawks and FLA...Dale Tallon is amongst a number of NHL GMs that like Dano very much.

The reality for the Blackhawks is that teams have adjusted to the Kane line, and thus their production has dropped. Who is there to pick up the slack? Last week it was the 1st line when Teravainen started scoring. Since then, the young Fin has been INVISIBLE again, and Toew's line simply cannot sustain that inconsistency, especially since Hossa isn't scoring.

There is a REAL CONCERN amongst the Hawks this morning that they need to make moves sooner than later. But remember this, it takes two to tango, and NO NHL GM seems eager to "do business" with the Hawks, and remember, the longer they make Bowman wait, the more pressure they are likely to exert on any potential deal. There is a sentiment going around the league right now that the Hawks are in a very tough spot and that they may not be able to get themselves out of right away. However, I do believe that Bowman will be able to make at least one, if not two deals...but likely at a very steep price. Bowman does NOT want to trade away his 1st round selections two years in a row, but it's looking very much like he will have to. As for the available Cap space to make such deals, don't worry so much about that...the Hawks now have the ability (especially when Kruger hits the LTIR) to add on two more contracts as neither Bickell nor Scuderi have solid holds on roster spots.

(frank)ing finally!
- EKB13

Dual edged sword for you personally. no?

Tallon is in a position to make the playoffs and needs to... He is looking to add not subtract.
- Al

There are a number of GMs Al that believe Dano can contribute at a top 6 level right away and develop into a very good 200' forward.

There are a number of GMs Al that believe Dano can contribute at a top 6 level right away and develop into a very good 200' forward.
- MexicoHawk

Could be correct but I think Tallon's someday is now.

Panthers are playing their best hockey in about 20 years, so, naturally, they are just itching to trade Jonathan Huberdeau, their 3rd overall pick in the 2011 and the most-skilled player in their young core. Makes sense!

With a year left on his deal I would say 50/50 at best.
- Al

Lots of teams with bad D.

Salary isn't really that high, there is always one GM and coach out there who think they are the guy who can turn him around.

Even if he isn't picked up, he goes to Rockford and the closest he comes to the ice with the Hawks again is a black ace.

The hawks roster is upgraded as of a couple hours ago.

Not that it would ever happen or be feasible from a salary standpoint, but a Phaneuf + JvR package would be quite the get and would alleviate any holes/concerns the team may have. Of course, it's not possible, but still worth a thought (?).
- TommyHawk

phanuef has looked a lot better this year on the 2nd pairing. hard to know what the leafs intentions are with him. i see pros/cons to both moving and keeping him.

salary wise, the leafs can't retain any more this year. so, another solution would have to be found.

jvr's ntc kicks in next year. so if the leafs intend on moving him, this year's deadline seems like the time.

If Bowman is feeling heat to make a move now, IMO, these are the only teams willing to dance in the near future based on expectations for this year, current standings in division/conference, possible panic teams (CGY/CBJ) and contract status of roster players possibly available (UFAs unlikely to return or trying to work on new contracts but doesnt look promising):

Arizona
Toronto
Buffalo
Columbus
Colorado
Carolina
Anaheim

Not a very big list and you have to evaluate A) How much those teams have of any Chicago needs B) how willing of dance partners they would be to help Chicago out and what they want from us

The pacific is so crappy this year that while Calgary, Vancouver, and Edmonton should be sellers of some kind, they are still in the thick of the hunt for a division spot

Colorado could be an option but is less likely. Anaheim is not trading with us. Columbus is a train wreck on D so no help in that department will come from there.

We are pretty much shopping off of Carolina, Arizona, Toronto, Columbus, and Buffalo right now, as is the rest of the league. Which means prices wont be cheap

As I have said all along, Andrew Shaw is a part of this core. You win championships with players like him, and there would be a huge loss if the Hawks traded him this summer just to free up another million or so in Cap space. Shaw isn't a legitimate 1st line LW, but he can play anywhere and not look out of place. GREAT KID!

Very happy to finally see Bowman accept his mistake and option Runblad to Rockford. As I posted this summer, Bowman rushing out to resign both Runblad and Rozy were STUPID moves, which were built off of poor decisions to acquire Runblad and extend Rozy in the first place. The Hawks MGT are sold on Guftasson and the Coaches like his combination of skill and moxy. As JJ said, he's coming back to play regularly, not sit.

Besides JJ, did anyone else notice how Scuderi's play has dropped off the last two games? Besides not possessing a lot speed in his game, it also appears that Scuderi's body is resisting his mind. He's a VERY smart NHL DMan and yet he is taking "forever" to make relatively simple decisions. I don't think he is healthy right now and the Hawks needed to make some kind of move as Rozy hasn't been good either.

Here's a rumour for you that simply won't die. I was told yet again this morning that the Hawks are still working on something with the Hurricanes. Notice how both Skinner and Bickell possessed more jump and spark in their games last night? I was told that Ron Francis would like to add the Hawks 1st round pick for this summer and isn't opposed to taking Bickell for the rest of the season and then buy him out during the window in June.

Also, I can add that there's a lot to JJ's rumour about the Hawks and FLA...Dale Tallon is amongst a number of NHL GMs that like Dano very much.

The reality for the Blackhawks is that teams have adjusted to the Kane line, and thus their production has dropped. Who is there to pick up the slack? Last week it was the 1st line when Teravainen started scoring. Since then, the young Fin has been INVISIBLE again, and Toew's line simply cannot sustain that inconsistency, especially since Hossa isn't scoring.

There is a REAL CONCERN amongst the Hawks this morning that they need to make moves sooner than later. But remember this, it takes two to tango, and NO NHL GM seems eager to "do business" with the Hawks, and remember, the longer they make Bowman wait, the more pressure they are likely to exert on any potential deal. There is a sentiment going around the league right now that the Hawks are in a very tough spot and that they may not be able to get themselves out of right away. However, I do believe that Bowman will be able to make at least one, if not two deals...but likely at a very steep price. Bowman does NOT want to trade away his 1st round selections two years in a row, but it's looking very much like he will have to. As for the available Cap space to make such deals, don't worry so much about that...the Hawks now have the ability (especially when Kruger hits the LTIR) to add on two more contracts as neither Bickell nor Scuderi have solid holds on roster spots.
- MexicoHawk

I think there are plenty of teams in the league ready to make a deal if they can get value for value and the salary cap $ work. Start with the Habs, Blue Jackets, Canucks, Ducks, Predators and Penguins. Bowman knows he has to do something significant to improve this team if he wants a playoff spot and a chance to win a series or 2.

Dual edged sword for you personally. no?
- stljam

I've spent all season watching Dent play Morin in every situation. Nothing gets worse than watching Morin on the ice.

With Kassian passing waivers a week or so ago, and being traded this morning, do you see the same type of thing happening with Rundblad?

If Bowman is feeling heat to make a move now, IMO, these are the only teams willing to dance in the near future based on expectations for this year, current standings in division/conference, possible panic teams (CGY/CBJ) and contract status of roster players possibly available (UFAs unlikely to return or trying to work on new contracts but doesnt look promising):

Arizona
Toronto
Buffalo
Columbus
Colorado
Carolina
Anaheim

Not a very big list and you have to evaluate A) How much those teams have of any Chicago needs B) how willing of dance partners they would be to help Chicago out and what they want from us

The pacific is so crappy this year that while Calgary, Vancouver, and Edmonton should be sellers of some kind, they are still in the thick of the hunt for a division spot

Colorado could be an option but is less likely. Anaheim is not trading with us. Columbus is a train wreck on D so no help in that department will come from there.

We are pretty much shopping off of Carolina, Arizona, Toronto, Columbus, and Buffalo right now, as is the rest of the league. Which means prices wont be cheap
- FourFeathers773

The Flames are 9-2-0 in their last 11 games. Why would they be panicking?

So its Boeddker, Huberdeau and Skinner.

I say you make the deal with whatever team takes Bickell, season be damned.

But not by adding 5.75 for the next three years....

Make a hockey trade for Killorn. He's at 2.2.

Not that it would ever happen or be feasible from a salary standpoint, but a Phaneuf + JvR package would be quite the get and would alleviate any holes/concerns the team may have. Of course, it's not possible, but still worth a thought (?).
- TommyHawk

Do the Hawks have a $100m payroll?

You could have Michael Grabner for a 1st round pick though

The Flames are 9-2-0 in their last 11 games. Why would they be panicking?
- Snowblind

They were pretty close to panic mode, they arent at the moment which is why I didnt put them in the list. But they had their finger on the button 2 weeks ago. A bad week or two probably puts them right back in that mindset.