Didn't mean to trade #3, if it came out that way then my fault.
I meant use some other picks,prospects,players to get a solid player. Or as you or someone else mentioned RFA or UFA - doesn't matter which way,just try and get someone.

Just read Powers new article,actually it isn't an article just a mock from the athletic writers..here's his tweet:

For @TheAthleticNHL's mock draft, I made the Blackhawks' two first-round picks. I'm relatively confident with the first one. Who knows on the second one? I'm not convinced they'll even make that pick.

Frondell at #3
Ryabkin at #26
is who he picked. He's pretty well connected with the Hocks,so I wouldn't doubt Frondell is their pick at 3.
- captainserious

At #3 I’d be happy with Frondell, Desnoyers, or Martone, I don’t think there’s a wrong choice there.

I’d be surprised if the Hawks actually draft at #25. It’s more likely KD moves up or moves the pick for immediate help. Between the two I think its more likely that KD packages #25 with a 2nd round pick to move up.

See this is why what you propose is illogical, why would you trade for a 26 year old difference maker when you can have an even better 18 year old player. The point is your building something, to be fearful that the 3rd OA pick doesn't pan out is living in fear. You lose 8 years and what if this player is Barkovesque or Tkachuck like, Toewslike, or Kanesque?

KD would propose the 3rd OA for Robertson and Nill wouldn't even let him finish his sentence, SOLD!

Chicago Sabres, shiiiiiit

Not even close 8 first round picks in 5 year span, 6 2nd round picks in 4 year span, 8 3rd round picks in a 10 year span

Chicago 8, 5, 8 in a 3 year span


If you don't believe you can build a team through the draft then you won't.

And are we going to start that same crap with not being able to ice all these forwards like we are with the defenseman?

Which is it are we going to have all this talent that we aren't going to find room for them on the roster or we need to get established players because all these players aren't going to pan out?
- BetweenTheDots

Because said 18 year old player doesn't really help the team improve for another 2-3 years and the 26 year old help immediately make the team more competitive which is what they need to start doing.

I'm also not fearful that the 3OA pick doesn't pan out. I'm simply saying that this particular draft class is weak and there aren't many players that are projected to be able to produce like Robertson has proven he can while also playing a solid 200' game. And what if the pick ends up Kotkaniemi, or Kakko, or Wright instead of Barkov?

I've literally never said you can't build a team through the draft. I've said you can't build an ENTIRE team through the draft.

Regarding spots:
Vlasic
Arty
Rinzel
KK
Allan
Del mastro
Kaiser
Crevier

That's 8, and I really don't think that KD is going to go into a season with most of the D-corps having 1-2 years experience.

You last sentence is simply putting words in my mouth. I'm saying you can't simply count on all the talent panning out so it is prudent to explore adding talent to supplement the young talent you have. Not to mention, Robertson has a year left on his contract after which he is still an RFA, if by some magic all the kids pan out, he can be moved for another glorious draft pick.

Really? I've been saying crap like this since the beginning of the season. To be fair, I can be a bit bipolar. I try to be as reasonable and amicable as possible, but then I read something that makes no sense to me and I lose my mind.

But seriously (for the entire group), how many prospects is enough? Especially considering the Hawks still have a ton more draft capital behind it?
- Chunk

The total number of prospects to me isn't the real focus, it's the number of prospects that transition to the NHL and have impactful upside.
We have 1 star player right now. We have a lot of maybes and hopefuls. We don't have much to trade that will entice teams looking to trade talented/impactful players. It's probably the worst UFA/Trade market of this entire generation given the economics. If he isn't careful KD could take the rebuild backwards and pay through the nose in the process.

The problem is that trading for Robertson probably means the Hawks include either Bedard or Nazar in the deal or Dallas says no. Not much else we have gets it done IMO. Another team will offer closer to what Dallas wants because they have top 6 forwards of similar caliber.

I know the Havlat trade has come up as something of an example of what the Hawks need to do, but that was trading for a severely injury prone guy. A guy who was talented but never had an injury free season and usually missed significant time. There were serious injury concerns about him when the Hawks traded for him. He managed to play about half of the next two seasons (91 games of 164 and then had his only 80+ season). He often missed half the seasons. My point is, the Hawks bought a talented guy who was at a low for value because of his injury history and status. They managed to get a bit out of him, but far from an ideal template for the Hawks to make a deal.
- breadbag

I gave my basis for the trade at the two 1sts this year and Reichel. If Nill says Nazar or Bedard, then sure, you just walk away.

I'm not saying do bargain chasing at all. With all the changes in coaching staffs, FO's, a few teams with a cap crunch, and some disappointing seasons, I believe there will be a some really good players that are available. I'm not saying to trade guys like Nazar or Bedard, but if a great player can be had for the cost of some high draft picks and maybe a bit more, then 100% it needs to be pursued.

The total number of prospects to me isn't the real focus, it's the number of prospects that transition to the NHL and have impactful upside.
We have 1 star player right now. We have a lot of maybes and hopefuls. We don't have much to trade that will entice teams looking to trade talented/impactful players. It's probably the worst UFA/Trade market of this entire generation given the economics. If he isn't careful KD could take the rebuild backwards and pay through the nose in the process.
- breadbag

Where do the guys that are expected to be available when the Hawks draft rank in terms of being "star" players? Equal to Nazar? Closer to Boisvert/Vanacker? I'm not saying any of these guys are bums. I actually really like what they are supposed to become. But as you just said, it's a lot of hope at this point. If you can trade some draft picks for a known (young) quantity isn't that better than hope?

Dallas is up against the wall if they can't find a way to move some money out. It was rumored that Robertson was possibly available. IF that is the case, and if Dallas would agree to the price offered, what is the downside to the Hawks sending a couple draft picks their way for a 26 year old proven PPG / 200' player?

KFC said he would only do something if it made sense. He is on the plank after trading or not resigning the former team stars. He has to make this work. His plan, as I see it, is to draft as many good players as possible and see what he has. I don't expect much in the way of FAs or trades after draft day, but you never know what KFC has up his sleeve. Did anyone foresee what he did at the draft last year?

Yeh sure- was not questioning the Buff part. Just mentioning that Q also had a guy more comfortable at wing as a centre as well.
- SC116

All good just adding on to your post.

At #3 I’d be happy with Frondell, Desnoyers, or Martone, I don’t think there’s a wrong choice there.

I’d be surprised if the Hawks actually draft at #25. It’s more likely KD moves up or moves the pick for immediate help. Between the two I think its more likely that KD packages #25 with a 2nd round pick to move up.
- DarthKane

Agree 25 is the most likely pick to move up just like last year.
Hagens will be our pick at 3. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

I gave my basis for the trade at the two 1sts this year and Reichel. If Nill says Nazar or Bedard, then sure, you just walk away.

I'm not saying do bargain chasing at all. With all the changes in coaching staffs, FO's, a few teams with a cap crunch, and some disappointing seasons, I believe there will be a some really good players that are available. I'm not saying to trade guys like Nazar or Bedard, but if a great player can be had for the cost of some high draft picks and maybe a bit more, then 100% it needs to be pursued.
- Chunk

Bedard and Nazar don't save Dallas money. They've both burned two years.

15 years ago something historic happened.
Zack Jarom posted this would be his last blog.
Oh, and Patrick Kane scored the OT goal that won the cup.

Bedard and Nazar don't save Dallas money. They've both burned two years.
- rpeters01

Not that I was considering either of them in this exercise, but Dallas needs money this coming year. The following year the cap jumps again and they will be in a better cap position.

Where do the guys that are expected to be available when the Hawks draft rank in terms of being "star" players? Equal to Nazar? Closer to Boisvert/Vanacker? I'm not saying any of these guys are bums. I actually really like what they are supposed to become. But as you just said, it's a lot of hope at this point. If you can trade some draft picks for a known (young) quantity isn't that better than hope?

Dallas is up against the wall if they can't find a way to move some money out. It was rumored that Robertson was possibly available. IF that is the case, and if Dallas would agree to the price offered, what is the downside to the Hawks sending a couple draft picks their way for a 26 year old proven PPG / 200' player?
- Chunk

At 3rd overall, the Hawks "should" get a player with more upside than Nazar/Boisvert/Vanacker, at least on paper. They have he odds are finding a game changer in the top 3-5 is much higher. Of course, nothing is a sure thing. They might miss. They might draft a player who Rivals Bedard as our best forward. We don't know that yet, but that's part of the process of rebuilding via the draft, which is the path management picked. We haven't "Rebuilt" yet. We have one star player.

I'm not saying don't trade for a young player with upside if the opportunity is there, but you keep drafting or bringing in talent until you get to the point that you know you have enough to build around. It doesn't matter how many prospects we have, once we have enough NHL level talent to build around, we are ready to put in place a team that can win. I don't think KD wouldn't make a trade for a youngish player with upside, but I just don't think many are available for picks and prospects, unless a team is tearing down to rebuild.

Teams like Dallas are in win now mode and want a good roster player coming back and one of the other 30 teams will probably give it to them.

Can someone in favor of acquiring Robertson explain why we should be excited for a player that:

1. Was just MIA in the playoffs
2. Has declined in consecutive seasons
3. Has notably worse metrics (production, possession, etc) not playing with Pavelski, with whom he had incredible chemistry
4. Is a below average defensive player that would be a nightmare on the same line as Bedard
5. Is due for a huge long term contract that will likely see him overpaid for his one super-elite season.

I just cannot see him as one of the cornerstones of a Cup winning Hawks team.

Bedard and Nazar don't save Dallas money. They've both burned two years.
- rpeters01

The absolutely would in the short term of next season.

Bedard could cost more on his next deal, depends what he actually does next season. He shouldn't command more than Robertson's 8.5 M as an RFA if he has another 60-65 point season. He doesn't have the leverage.

Nazar, would really have to break out big to rival that 8.5 million. Maybe he does that, maybe he doesn't. No guarantee at all there. If the Hawks think he is going to break out that big, then why trade him?

Because said 18 year old player doesn't really help the team improve for another 2-3 years and the 26 year old help immediately make the team more competitive which is what they need to start doing.

I'm also not fearful that the 3OA pick doesn't pan out. I'm simply saying that this particular draft class is weak and there aren't many players that are projected to be able to produce like Robertson has proven he can while also playing a solid 200' game. And what if the pick ends up Kotkaniemi, or Kakko, or Wright instead of Barkov?

I've literally never said you can't build a team through the draft. I've said you can't build an ENTIRE team through the draft.

Regarding spots:
Vlasic
Arty
Rinzel
KK
Allan
Del mastro
Kaiser
Crevier

That's 8, and I really don't think that KD is going to go into a season with most of the D-corps having 1-2 years experience.

You last sentence is simply putting words in my mouth. I'm saying you can't simply count on all the talent panning out so it is prudent to explore adding talent to supplement the young talent you have. Not to mention, Robertson has a year left on his contract after which he is still an RFA, if by some magic all the kids pan out, he can be moved for another glorious draft pick.
- Chunk

If Robertson can be traded for a reasonable price, no problem. That's where we differ 3rd OA is not an option. If the Stars, or Wild or Avs want a top 6 player for their top 6 player, good luck unless that player is on an expiring contract and most likely 30 something years old so why even trade him, unless the other teams eats half their salary. I don't see too many Brandon Hagels out there.

I'll be curious to see what the Stars get for Robertson? I will admit he'd be a nice addition to the team, and when the young dmen start pushing other young dmen out of the line up I'm hoping to see them used for trades like this but i don't think those kids have enough value yet.

At 3rd overall, the Hawks "should" get a player with more upside than Nazar/Boisvert/Vanacker, at least on paper. They have he odds are finding a game changer in the top 3-5 is much higher. Of course, nothing is a sure thing.
- breadbag

One slight caveat: Nazar has as much upside as anyone in this year's draft, in my opinion. Granted, I've been a huge Nazar fan for a long time. But I recall one of the "experts" saying at the time of the 2022 draft that Nazar could turn out to be the best player in the draft if he reached full potential.

But I agree that any of Misa/Desnoyers/Frondell, and probably even Martone (hell, McQueen too), would rank higher in potential upside than any Hawk forward prospect not named Bedard or Nazar.

Regarding Robertson...

Dallas has 7 roster spots open, and about $5 mill in cap space, if the salary cap estimate becomes the actual number. And they have a ton of vets who just went UFA. https://puckpedia.com/team/dallas-stars

Robertson's contract has one year left, then he becomes arbitration eligible RFA. In other words, if he doesn't come close to his 2023 stats again, it will make for an interesting arbitration hearing that could go either way. Lots of risk for either side there.

He was wearing a knee brace after his recent injury. What exactly was the injury? Between that and being 29 points off of his highest point total in each of the past two seasons, the next question is what will he be like at age 30? Because any acquiring team has to figure out what to offer for his next contract, plus they have to brace themselves for an arbitration ruling that could go against them.

So what is his trade value given those facts? Dallas is in a bind. Every GM smells blood. They aren't getting full value for anybody they have to move. Their budget planning went out the window when they added Rantanen, and possibly even more so when Robertson got injured.

I see them moving Marchment and Dumba before they have to start moving core assets, anyway. We don't know if Oettinger wants out, either. He probably would have if they didn't fire DeBoer. Gonna be an interesting summer for Jim Nill, anyway.

Regarding Robertson...

Dallas has 7 roster spots open, and about $5 mill in cap space, if the salary cap estimate becomes the actual number. And they have a ton of vets who just went UFA. https://puckpedia.com/team/dallas-stars

Robertson's contract has one year left, then he becomes arbitration eligible RFA. In other words, if he doesn't come close to his 2023 stats again, it will make for an interesting arbitration hearing that could go either way. Lots of risk for either side there.

He was wearing a knee brace after his recent injury. What exactly was the injury? Between that and being 29 points off of his highest point total in each of the past two seasons, the next question is what will he be like at age 30? Because any acquiring team has to figure out what to offer for his next contract, plus they have to brace themselves for an arbitration ruling that could go against them.

So what is his trade value given those facts? Dallas is in a bind. Every GM smells blood. They aren't getting full value for anybody they have to move. Their budget planning went out the window when they added Rantanen, and possibly even more so when Robertson got injured.

I see them moving Marchment and Dumba before they have to start moving core assets, anyway. We don't know if Oettinger wants out, either. He probably would have if they didn't fire DeBoer. Gonna be an interesting summer for Jim Nill, anyway.
- 333inthe3rd

Yea how the hell do you bench him in an elimination game.

Can someone in favor of acquiring Robertson explain why we should be excited for a player that:

1. Was just MIA in the playoffs
2. Has declined in consecutive seasons
3. Has notably worse metrics (production, possession, etc) not playing with Pavelski, with whom he had incredible chemistry
4. Is a below average defensive player that would be a nightmare on the same line as Bedard
5. Is due for a huge long term contract that will likely see him overpaid for his one super-elite season.

I just cannot see him as one of the cornerstones of a Cup winning Hawks team.
- LetsGoHawks

1) He went into the playoffs injured in the regular season finale with a lower body injury. Didn't play against COL didn't do a lot against WPG, but was one of the only Stars to consistently score in the EDM series (4G 1A in 5 games, only held scoreless in one game).

2) 82 games 80 pts in the last two years with more goals this year. How is that a decline? Literally the same numbers.

3) Roope Hintz, Wyatt Johnston, Dadonov, Benn and others had worse metrics than the year prior as well. Are they bad players too?

4) Based on what exactly?

5) His one 109 pt season was two seasons ago. He's put up 80 the last two (and 79 in 74 games the year before the 109 pt season). He's due $7.75M this year and is an RFA at the end of the contract. If they don't think he's worth it or they have prospects to fill his production they can trade his rights for more draft picks (FUN!).

If I'm understanding the argument, he's not the perfect player, so there is no reason to pursue it?

If Robertson can be traded for a reasonable price, no problem. That's where we differ 3rd OA is not an option. If the Stars, or Wild or Avs want a top 6 player for their top 6 player, good luck unless that player is on an expiring contract and most likely 30 something years old so why even trade him, unless the other teams eats half their salary. I don't see too many Brandon Hagels out there.

I'll be curious to see what the Stars get for Robertson? I will admit he'd be a nice addition to the team, and when the young dmen start pushing other young dmen out of the line up I'm hoping to see them used for trades like this but i don't think those kids have enough value yet.
- BetweenTheDots

That is simply me saying I would give up the 3rd overall to get him because I believe he's worth it. I have no idea what he would actually command in a trade in real life.

KFC said he would only do something if it made sense. He is on the plank after trading or not resigning the former team stars. He has to make this work. His plan, as I see it, is to draft as many good players as possible and see what he has. I don't expect much in the way of FAs or trades after draft day, but you never know what KFC has up his sleeve. Did anyone foresee what he did at the draft last year?
- bjphawkfan

Who told you this?

Who told you this?
- vabeachbear

It was on the internet, the same place I learned the earth is flat.

It was on the internet, the same place I learned the earth is flat.
- paulr

Ah, that secret is out?

Who told you this?
- vabeachbear

I am not saying that he will get fired. I think he has done a good job drafting so far. But he is all in on prospects. However this turns out, he will be solely responsible. He is on a tree branch, and if the rebuild doesn't go the way he envisions it, Peter will cut the branch. Don't get me wrong, I am behind him 100%. We had to do this. I was never this excited on draft day when Stan was GM. On a side note, CHSN is now back on Comcast and for an extra $20 bucks, we can watch the Hawks again.

I am not saying that he will get fired. I think he has done a good job drafting so far. But he is all in on prospects. However this turns out, he will be solely responsible. He is on a tree branch, and if the rebuild doesn't go the way he envisions it, Peter will cut the branch. Don't get me wrong, I am behind him 100%. We had to do this. I was never this excited on draft day when Stan was GM. On a side note, CHSN is now back on Comcast and for an extra $20 bucks, we can watch the Hawks again.
- bjphawkfan

KFC and McIver probably have a lot more rope than we think. At least we haven't lost 50 games two seasons in a row like SJ, an NHL record.