Bad Call, Bizarre Goal And Blown Lead...Again!

Just when we thought the Blackhawks couldn't blow a bigger lead than last game, they did, against a crappier team and at home. The Hawks squandered a four goal lead from early in the second period only to allow the Buffalo Sabres to tie them (twice), then win it with only 12 seconds left in the third period. Not only did they have a larger lead than last game (3-0), then didn't even get the loser point this time. The problem with having a large lead before the game was even half over, is the Sabres had more time to chip away and by the end of the second period they were within a goal (4-3). If the Hawks were fighting for a playoff spot, I would be angry as hell, but this is one of many reasons they are not, they can NOT hold a lead. Good teams can protect leads and what the last two games taught us is you can't just play a really good half a hockey game and expect to be rewarded. This is a problem, duh.

The positives:

• Fast Start: Again, the Hawks came out flying outplaying and outhitting the Sabres as they roared to 3-0 by the end of the first period and 4-0, a minute and a half into the second. It's great to see the Hawks starting out so quickly and they've been scoring the first goals more often. Earlier in the season it was a habit to see them fall behind early and never recover or comeback.

• Goals a Plenty: Calvin de Haan's goal came as a result of a sweet pass from Taylor Raddysh. The second goal was all Sam Lafferty who threw a big hit to retrieve the puck from the corner, then proceeded to the front of the goal to tip a McCabe point shot. The third goal was vintage Johnny Toews with a beautiful move to the front of the goal and the fourth was a nice feed from DeBrincat to Seth Jones who moved in from the point. After the Sabres tied it at 4, the Cat snapped his 38th of the season to take a 5-4 lead, but of course, we know the Hawks can't hold a lead. The PP was 2/2, so that's positive. Another good offensive output with lots of goals, but it was all for naught.

Bad Thoughts:

• Blown lead: How many times this season have the Hawks failed to hold on to a lead? It seems like every time the momentum is turning against them when they have a lead, they collapse, crumble and go into panic mode. They stop doing what they were doing, they can't clear the puck out of their own end, they continue to to make east-west plays not advancing the puck, especially in the neutral zone and their own end and they get too fancy in the other teams zone and don't get pucks to the net. How do you stop the mo, relieve the pressure and slow the game down? They had to have felt it as soon as the Sabres scored their second goal, they just lost a game where they blew a big lead and clearly unless you are blind to the signs, you have to do something to stop the bleeding. Call a time-out, throw some hits, start a fight, throw loose change on the ice, whatever it takes! That's where good coaching and well disciplined players comes in. This has to be addressed in the off-season.
  
• The setup for the inevitable winning goal seemed like it was meant to happen. All the circumstances surrounding it, the Sabres had tied it with just over two minutes left, Dylan Strome receives a hooking penalty with about a minute left in a tie game, Tage Thompson scores on a once in a lifetime fluke goal with 12 seconds left. Comeback complete.

• Bad call: The penalty Strome received was such a non-call, the refs should be embarrassed. Strome clearly used his stick on Jeff Skinner's stick in the slot area and he fell because Strome out-muscled him as Skinner was falling forward already. (see above photo). Strome only used his stick on Skinner's stick, not on his hands and not touching his body at all, a really good defensive play. Earlier in the period, Skinner felt he was violated and proceeded to scream and whine to the refs. According to Colby Cohen, between the benches, Skinner continued to bark at the referee even through a commercial break. You have to wonder if all those intimidating threats do influence and make the ref question their earlier non-call. The fact Skinner could get away with his verbal assault without getting a penalty or misconduct is unbelievable. And to add insult to injury, supposedly, the ref Skinner was targeting was working one of his first NHL games and he was the ref that ultimately made the last minute penalty call. Seems like a premeditated call to me. If this is the case, this is another example of the incompetent and oh, so frustrating inconsistency of NHL refereeing this season. It was a bad call and it cost the Hawks the game.
  
• Bizarre goal: It took the replay to realize how the puck went in. Thompson took the shot from inside the circle, his stick shattered in half, the lower half went with the puck that hit the back boards then ricocheted off Lankinen's skate to deflect into the net. You would never be able to recreate that shot. When Thompson took the shot and his stick broke, he was on the way to the bench to get another stick when it went in. What a way to lose!

 

 

• It took Kevin Lankinen three smashes of his goal stick to break it completely.

Up next: Hawks take a trip to Florida to face a couple cup favourites, Thursday in Florida and Friday in Tampa Bay. both games at 6:00 CST.

A 3 Goal Lead Is Safe, Right?: Blackhawks Blow It!

Just when we thought the Chicago Blackhawks were turning some kind of corner, they proceed to blow a three goal lead going into the third period and lose in overtime to the Vegas Golden Knights. With a two game winning streak and a "comfortable" 3-0 lead against the Knights after two periods, the Hawks went into panic mode, something we've seen all too often this season. The Knights were desperate for a win to keep their playoff hopes alive, but how can the Hawks fall apart so quickly in a game they had seemingly had complete control of? Sorry Jets! At least they got a loser point and got points in all 3 games on this road trip, as if that's any consolation.

Quick thoughts/rants:

• Comeback/collapse: This win was Vegas's first ever 3+ third period comeback...in their history! It's funny how momentum changes so quickly and when the Vegas fans woke up when they scored their first goal by Chandler Stephenson and it was hard to stop the stream-roller effect. When they scored that goal, I had a bad bad feeling this Hawks collapse could happen. I feel sick!
• Lankinen: The turning point was clearly the first Vegas goal which led to tying the game a short time later. The Hawks gave up three goals in 2:52 within the first three and half minutes of the third, this seems to be a habit this season, As they say, any lead is never safe no matter by how many goals. The first goal Lankinen should have had, a clear shot from the circle and it went through him (under the arm). A couple other ones were deflections with heavy traffic in front, but the OT was another he should have stopped. It's unfortunate because Lankinen had a strong game in the first two periods. Also, has Lankinen ever won in OT? I recall last season he seemed to lose in overtime, a lot.
• Hawks scoring: The Hawks actually played well during the first two periods. Goals from Dominik Kubalik (his first in while), Jonathan Toews and Dylan Strome, it was looking promising. The Kane/Strome/DeBrincat line was always a threat and in the third during the catastrophic collapse, they were the only threat. Nice to see the Cat get his 37th of the year. What a season!

• Dadonov: The irony that Evgenii Dadonov scored the OT winner for Vegas is hilarious. Earlier in the week, as an obvious salary dump, he was traded to the Ducks, but an idiotic oversight by the Knights management who didn't realize Anaheim was on Davonov's no-trade list is inexcusable (and laughable!). No fault to Evgenii's he is out to prove they were making a mistake and he's scored some big goals since. Still doesn't solve their cap issues and I really hope they can't dress certain players because of this and they miss the playoffs. C'mon hockey karma gods!
  

• ABC...#*@!!: My first world problem complaints about the broadcast continue with another national game on ABC/ESPN+. The play by play was fine, but the camera angles are driving me crazy! During the power-plays (for both teams), the prolonged camera angle was from the highest possible corner either in the close end or the far end of the ice. The other PP angle was behind the net and when a goal was scored at that angle, I had no idea where the puck was before it went in the net. Clearly this must be an issue, because during the second period intermission, Mark Messier and Chris Chelios had differing opinions on the TV camera angles. Chelios said it was too far and too high up, while Mess said it was a good teaching angle because you can see all the players on the ice at once. But, NOT during the live play, for a replay it's fine for a "teaching moment", but come on!! I've brought this issue up before and it only occurs during ABC broadcasts, so whoever is editing or doing the switching and choosing the camera angles, get someone else that knows something about telecasting hockey!...end rant.

Up next: I'll be watching the Jets/Coyotes game on Sunday. The Blackhawks return home to host the Buffalo Sabres on Monday at 7:30 pm CST.

California Dreaming?: Blackhawks Shoot Out The Kings

We must be dreaming, playing the back-end of a back to back, the Chicago Blackhawks needed the maximum time to beat the LA Kings in a shootout 4-3 for a 2 game sweep of California. After the overtime period failed to produce a goal, Alex DeBrincat ended the game with the winner scoring the only goal of the shootout. For much of the game the Hawks were hanging on and for the most part were out played, with Collin Delia turning in a solid game. Too much zone time in their own end and the Hawks scoring on their opportunities despite Kings goalie, Jonathan Quick also playing in a strong game.

Random thoughts:

• Scoring: Patrick Kane had another multiple point night with 1 goal and 1 assist and Alex DeBrincat scored his 36th goal and 1 helper. Technically, the shootout goal doesn't count towards his season goal total. Sam Lafferty was finally rewarded for his hard work with his 4th goal set up by a shifty pass from Taylor Raddysh.

• The power-play?: After the power-play clicked against Anaheim, the Hawks "special teams" almost let them down. Within the opening seconds of their first PP, the Hawks gave up a shorthanded goal. The Hawks then took an undisciplined bench minor for too many men on the ice and the Kings immediately cashed in on their power-play. The Hawks had a power-play in overtime, but it was with only 28 seconds left and finished the night 0/4..
  
• Where now?: Hailing from Rancho Cucamonga, California, Collin Delia got the start in his hometown (close by) with family in attendance and kept his team in the game, especially in the first when the Blackhawks were out played badly 12-5, but the Hawks came out of the period with the lead with Kane's 21st of the season. He finished the game with 43 saves on 46 shots and didn't allow a goal in the shootout. He was one of the stars of the game.

• For some reason the Blackhawks wore their home red jerseys. Since the ESPN+ broadcast begins with the drop of the puck, I didn't hear an explanation. I would love it if the NHL went back to the home light colour jerseys and the visiting team wearing their dark (and more colourful) jerseys. Seeing the red Hawks jerseys at a Jets home game would be incredible! I have to admit back when I had season tickets for the Jets in the early 80's, one of the highlights was to see the visiting teams "nicer looking" threads. Back to last night, maybe it was because the Kings wanted to wear those goofy shiny chrome helmets.
• Speaking of ESPN+...could the broadcast be any more annoying? Leah Hextall's pronunciation of Collin D-lee-a was laughable and Ray Ferraro said it differently each time. This should really make Hawks fans appreciate how good we have it with the Blackhawks telecast, including the in-studio analysis, instead of the national on ESPN/TNT, yikes!

Up next: Off to Vegas for an afternoon game on Saturday at 2:00 pm CST. Oh no, another national telecast!

Staying Up Late With The Hawks And The Ducks: Worth It!

The Blackhawks kicked off a West coast road trip in Anaheim with a close win against the struggling Ducks. This is the first game for both teams since the trade deadline on Monday and though the Hawks didn't add any new players from the deadline, it saw the return of Reese Johnson from injury. Johnson took the place of Ryan Carpenter on the 4th line, who was dealt to the Calgary Flames and Kevin Lankinen returned to the net after Marc Andre Fleury went to Minnesota.  It'll be up to Lankinen to carry the load for the rest of the season and hopefully he can improve on his 3 wins this season. 

Positives:

•  A win: is a win and any wins the Hawks get between now and the end of the regular season will only help the confidence of this fragile organization. With so many players (Kubalik, Strome, Kurachev, Lafferty, de Haan, C.Jones, Gustafsson, Lankinen) becoming free agents (UFA/RFA) this summer, this will be an opportunity for those players to show they want to stay, so I expect the team won't be coasting to the golf course just yet. The Hawks actually have more cap space than they've had in years, so they can afford to sign some of these players, so let's see who plays their way back and who plays themself off the team. Looking elsewhere is another option.

Dylan Strome's beautiful deflection was the game winning goal.

• Power-play: The Hawks PP went 2/3 and it has looked strong the last couple games. Brandon Hagel's spot on the PP has been replaced by Taylor Raddysh who has scored 2 goals (one last night) since he's joined the Hawks. When Strome, Kane, DeBrincat and Jones are on, the power-play can be lethal. You can't deny there is chemistry with the addition of Raddysh.
  

• Kevin Lankinen: As mentioned above, Lankinen isn't enjoying a good season, though he's played good at times, his inconsistent play (and bad bounces) has only given him 3 wins to show for it. Make that 4 wins after last night's win. He played extremely well, especially in the first period and maybe with more starts his confidence will bring him back to the level he was playing earlier last season. He will get the majority of starts, with Colin Delia called up from Rockford to back him up. The Blackhawks only have Arvid Soderblom signed to play goal next season, so it'll be up the Lankinen to prove he is worthy of a re-sign.

• Sam Lafferty: What can you say about Lafferty? Since he arrived in Chicago from the Pens, in a trade for Alex Nylander, he has been a major surprise, for not only dressing every night for the Hawks, but for his energetic, hard nose play. He has been noticeable and last night he had several grade A chances created from his speed and aggressive style, he seemed to be everywhere. His line with Kurachev and Dach actually had the second most ice time besides the Strome line. He reminds me of Hagel last season, who worked his ass off and created many of his own opportunities, but didn't have a scoring touch. Hagel found it this season and if Lafferty can finish more plays, he can be a very efficient player for the Hawks going forward. Definitely should be re-signed this summer.

Quick notes:

• It was 70 years ago (1952), when Bill Mosienko scored the three fastest goals in league history with 3 in 21 seconds. Blackhawks coach, Derek King scored 3 in 78 seconds when he played with the Islanders in 1991 which is the third fastest.
• Speaking of King, he and Ducks coach, Dallas Eakins were roommates when they both played for the Leafs back in 1998-99 and coached together with the Toronto Marlies starting in 2009. Just saying...
  

Up next: another late one against the LA Kings tonight at 9:00 pm CST. The Jets host the Sens at 7.

NHL Trade Deadline: What The Hawks and Jets Did

That was a quick turnaround! Note, the cool mask stays, for now.

 

The Winnipeg Jets were active on trade deadline day, while the Blackhawks dealt the biggest name to the Wild. After the dust settled, including some deals announced after the 3:00 pm EST deadline, these are the trades involving the Blackhawks and Winnipeg Jets:

Blackhawks traded:

• Marc Andre Fleury- (Minnesota Wild): The biggest name and potentially the most impactful player traded was the Fleury who went to the divisional rival, Minnesota Wild. No surprise, we pretty much knew he was going somewhere at the deadline and St. Paul is a short distance from Chicago, so Fleury's family can stay in Chicago. Return: conditional first round pick (2nd unless Minnesota make it to conference finals and Fleury wins at least 4 games) I hate conditionals, this means we have to hope the Wild go far in the playoffs, sucks!

• Ryan Carpenter (Calgary Flames): Doesn't get much in return, but gives the vet an opportunity with a contender. Good move by the Flames. Return: fifth round pick in 2024 

Jets traded:

• Andrew Copp (New York Rangers) and a sixth round pick: The impending UFA's trade was announced minutes before the close of the deadline and he will be a big loss for the Jets. They made a few moves earlier in the day to try to fill his spot, but his versatility will be especially missed. Return: conditional first round pick (2nd unless the Rangers win 2 rounds and Copp plays 50% of the games), conditional 22/23 second round, 2023 fifth round and Morgan Barron.

• Nathan Beaulieu (Pittsburgh Penguins): No room on the roster for the scrappy Beaulieu. I think he's injured again. Return: 2022 conditional seventh round pick.
• Bryan Little's contract & Nathan Smith's signing rights (Arizona Coyotes): Bryan Little's playing career is probably done, now the Coyotes can pay him (aka: salary dump). Smith was drafted in 2018 and is currently playing college, but he's unsigned. If the Yotes can't sign him, he'll become a free agent. Return: 2022 fourth round pick
• Nelson Nogier (Los Angeles Kings): In a swap of minor league players that won't affect the present Jets lineup. Return: Markus Phillips (Moose-bound)
  

Jets added:

• Mason Appleton (from Seattle): Familiar to the Jets already as Appleton was unprotected and taken by Seattle during the entry draft. Appleton probably thought he would have an expanded role on the Kraken and not be a bottom 6 player. Didn't happen, so he's better off playing on a better team. Brought in to help fill the hole a departing Copp will leave. Gave up: fourth round pick in 2023.
• Zach Sanford (from Ottawa): Generic winger who becomes a UFA after the season. He has 9 goals and 8 assists this season. Will also fill a hole in the third or fourth line. Gave up: 2022 fifth round pick.

So, the Hawks end up not trading DeHaan and Kubalik, but trade Fleury, Carpenter and Hagel. In the process they acquired draft picks, including 2 first rounders (with the potential of a third) and a couple of decent young players from the Lightning. Not a bad outing by rookie GM, Kyle Davidson.

The Jets had to trade Copp, he didn't want to extend, so they got what they could. I don't know much about Barron and the picks could be iffy, so similar to Fleury, we may have to cheer on the Rangers at least for two playoff rounds. As the old saying goes, "the team that gets the best player will win the trade". Appleton and Sanford are uneventful, so these moves will hurt more than it helps. And why didn't they trade Stastny??!

Up next: Jets play at home against Vegas (again!) on Tuesday and the Hawks don't play until Wednesday for a late one against the Ducks.

Close, But Oh So Far Away: Hawks Lose Twice

It was not a fun time this weekend for the Hawks.

 

It wasn't a good weekend for the Chicago Blackhawks, they were close in both games to the Minnesota Wild and the Winnipeg Jets getting within one and giving up empty net goals. The Hawks played horribly in St. Paul on Saturday, as goaltender, Kevin Lankinen kept it close, while on Sunday, back at home they lost a see-saw battle despite a spirited near comeback after a brutal second period. If the Hawks were in playoff contention those losses would have been devastating losing to division rivals, but with this lost season we can only search for the positives.

The Positives:

• The new players acquired in the Brandon Hagel trade, Taylor Raddysh and Boris Katchouk lined up for the opening faceoff against the Wild in their debut with the Hawks. Both played well and Raddysh even had a couple shifts with former junior teammates, Alex DeBrincat and Dylan Strome.

• Speaking of Raddysh, he had a strong game on Sunday assisting on Toews goal and scoring his first goal with the Hawks on the power-play. He was noticeable all night, using his speed, playing over 15 minutes and was probably their best player.

• Alex Vlasic played both nights after earlier in the week signing his entry level deal coming directly from Boston College. He was steady and confident, despite playing limited minutes easing into the NHL. There could be an opening for him next season on the blue line as the Hawks could use a D with his size and skill.
• Kevin Lankinen still can't win a game, but he played well in the loss to the Wild. He will be depended on for the rest of the season because (just announced as I'm writing this!) Marc Andre Fleury has been traded to the Minnesota Wild. I heard the rumours yesterday about the possibility of Fleury to the Wild and was somewhat surprised he started against the Jets. Now he has to fly back to Minnesota, oh that sucks!!

The Negatives:

• As mentioned above, Fleury's departure, though it wasn't unexpected, leaves a huge hole in goal. Whether they try to re-sign Fleury in the off season (doubtful, but may depend on how things go in Minny) or make a trade/free agent in the summer, I can't picture Lankinen being the starter next season.
• The Hawks are consistent, only in finding ways to lose. They've lost three in a row and 4 of their last 5 games. Playoffs are out of reach, so giving some of the younger players/prospects more playing time should be priority. Ending the season with some wins would be nice too and remember the Hawks won't have a first round pick this season (unless they win the draft lottery), so tanking further has no benefit either. Ending the season with long losing streaks will NOT bode well with Hawks fans. (Edit: The Hawks retain a first round pick from the Wild in the Fleury deal.)
  
• Caleb Jones: With his increased ice time (he played 24:28 against the Jets) and responsibility, the younger Jones has been dishing out the giveaways more and more. In each game on the weekend there were multiple bad passes in front of his own net that are getting so blatant that the coaching staff has to take notice. He plays with a lot of energy, but sometimes it's frenzied and he seems frazzled and confused a lot in his own end. Once he improves his defensive game, then he deserves to can stay in the lineup.
• Almost scary moment when Fleury lost his catching glove and was beat by a one-timer from "no mercy" Kyle Connor. It's a good thing he didn't stop it with his hand (especially if you're a Wild fan) because he instinctively threw his hand out to make a stop.

Quick Takes: 

• Saturday's broadcast was Pat Foley's last road game. Looking forward to more Pat and Eddie calls for the rest of the season and it just won't be the same next year. Sadly, I was forced to watch the Jets broadcast on Sunday because my NHL Live streaming has a black-out for the local team's games. How much am I paying for this service!
• Stu Grimson: Strange to see the 'Grim Reaper" as an in-studio analyst on the Blackhawks broadcast on Saturday. I thought he still worked on the Predators telecast, but supposedly he's now a senior analyst for the NHL Network. Good to see him associate with his ex-team, always a fan favourite in Chicago.

Up next: I'm watching the trade deadline programs right now, so we'll recap the activity involving the Hawks and Jets.

What Will the Jets Do Before The Deadline?

What players will be celebrating after the deadline? photo by Jonathan Kozub/via Getty Images

 

 Winnipeg Jets GM, Kevin Cheveldayoff was talking to Sara Orlesky from TSN between periods during the Jets/Bruins TSN broadcast and he discussed what type of player the Jets might pursue at the deadline. He said because they are tight to the cap any deal would mean a salary in and a salary out, in reality the Jets have about 4.9 mil of cap space. He said they would be interested in acquiring a middle 6 forward and with the Jets two pending UFA's, Paul Stastny and Andrew Copp coincidentally considered 2nd or 3rd liners, it sounds like he would be looking to replace one or both of them since they're depth isn't as deep as previous seasons. I think they should upgrade their "second" line with someone to replace Stastny on the Wheeler and Scheifele line.

What players could have a change of address before the end of Monday?

• Andrew Copp (forward): Copp is due to become a UFA this summer and I have doubts they will resign him. Last summer, he avoided salary arbitration by signing a one year 3.64 mil contract. He wants more money and term, but he's too rich for the Jets blood and I sense Copp is disgruntled with how he's been treated. There are definitely teams that would want to add a solid, versatile and decent scorer for a playoff run and the Jets should take any offers seriously. The other option is they lose him at the end of the season for nothing. (FYI: Copp was the interview guest between the 2nd and 3rd periods) Will he be traded? Good possibility. 7/10

• Paul Stastny (forward): The first time the Jets traded for Stastny was at the trade deadline in 2018, the year the Jets made it to the conference finals. He was a brilliant addition to upgrade the Jets offense on their playoff run. This season he is playing higher in the lineup than he should due to injuries and maybe a lack of depth. Similarly to Copp, he makes about the same amount, he's a UFA and to lose him for nothing would hurt (maybe not as much as Copp). Will he be traded? I would trade him, but...6/10

• Pierre-Luc Dubois (forward): I added Dubois to the list because he becomes a RFA at the end of the season. It's good timing that Dubois is having a very good season and has replaced as the team's top centre. He's the type of player the Jets have needed, big, skilled and has a good touch around the net. His chemistry this season with Kyle Connor has been a revelation. I believe the Jets will sign Dubois to a long term extension, at least they should. Will he be traded? Definitely not, but stranger things have happened. 2/10
• Blake Wheeler (forward): There has been an increased animosity towards Wheeler, especially earlier in the season, but he's settled in and we see flashes of vintage Wheeler every once in a while. He's the leader and heart and soul of the team, so it would take some kind of offer to deal him, but I can't a team taking on his 8.2 mil cap hit. He's under contract for two more years after this season. I'm guessing Chevy wants to keep together and build around their core (Wheeler, Scheifele, Ehlers, Morrissey, Hellebuyck, Connor, Dubois) everyone around is expendable and interchangeable. Will he be traded? Not likely, this season. 4/10

• There are other players that are RFA's after this season (Kristian Vesalainen, Evgeny Svechnikov, Adam Brooks, Jansen Harkins, Eric Comrie) and they'll probably sign a couple of them, but they won't have much value in a trade unless they were added to a deal.
• Who might they be looking to add? I read that the Jets might have interest in Dominik Kubalik from the Hawks. He could be a good add if he can get his scoring touch back. Playing in a winning environment with different linemates (Wheeler/Schifele or Lowry/Copp), this could be a good match. Other possibilities, Jake DeBrusk from the Bruins and Phil Kessel (if Arizona retains most of his salary),
  

After last night's disappointing loss to the Bruins, Chevy must be scratching his head to decide what direction to take. They aren't out of the playoff race yet, but the games are ticking down quickly. The Jets have a pretty favorable schedule in the next week or so against teams they should and have to beat. I suspect they won't be trading away players just to dump salaries/contracts and they might not want to disrupt the chemistry of this team. I honestly believe the current roster isn't good enough and they need to inject a spark of some sort. Whether it's a top 6 scorer or a 3rd line grinder, they need to stir the pot a bit with hopes to advance forward. For all we know, the Jets might not do anything at the deadline and let the current roster determine the destiny of their playoff chance. Don't hold your breath for a big trade.

No, Say It Ain't So: Blackhawks Trade Brandon Hagel!

Brandon Hagel is a Tampa Bay Lightning.

I knew I should have written my last post earlier about the possibility of what Blackhawk players would be traded before the deadline. Clearly, Kyle Davidson didn't read it before he completed his trade talks with the Lightning or he doesn't care about the opinion from a guy that lives in Winnipeg. Yes, it's true Brandon Hagel along with a pair of fourth rounders in 2022 and 2024 were traded to the Lightning for two first round picks in 2023 and 2024 along with forwards Taylor Raddysh and Boris Katchouk.

It was almost two years ago exactly (March 11, 2020), when Hagel made his NHL debut, the last game that season before the pandemic lockdown. Last season, Hagel had 9 goals and 24 points in 52 games, while this season he has broken out in a big way with 21 goals and 37 points so far in 55 games. Bagel's play since entering the NHL has attracted the attention of his teammates and fans with his undetermined work ethic, he was to be a key player for a rebuild in Chicago. I'm disappointed he's leaving because he is the type of player the Hawks need more of and though he was a late draft pick in 2016, he's a late bloomer that can only make a team better. Tampa is a pretty good team already, so this add (and still staying under the salary cap) will be help even more, as if they need more help.

What do the Hawks get back? The draft picks aren't until 2023 & 2024, so truly the rebuild has begun. Hopefully next year and the year after the Lightning falter badly so we can an earlier pick, which is doubtful. Taylor Raddysh will be familiar to Alex DeBrincat and Dylan Strome as linemates in junior when they played for the Erie Otters. The line was lethal combination that put up huge numbers together. Whether Raddysh will get an opportunity to play with the pair or even get into the lineup might be answered this weekend when the Hawks play a pair of games against the Wild and Jets. In the last meeting between the Lightning and Blackhawks, Raddysh scored a goal, so he has NHL level skills. I don't know much about Katchouk, he's former second round pick and he has 6 points during his first NHL season in 38 games. 

All in all, the Hawks got back a good return, but until the draft picks are drafted, we won't know who got the best of the deal for several years. Generally though, the team that receives the best player in the deal (including picks) wins the trade, but who knows. The Lightning could possibly win two more cups during this time too. I don't think the Blackhawks are done trading yet. An indication who might be dealt will be during the game against the Wild. A health scratch may mean that player is leaving Chicago soon. Stay tuned!

What The Hawks Might And Should Do Before The Trade Deadline

On Monday, the NHL's trade deadline comes and goes and the question for hockey fans is, who comes and goes? For the Blackhawks, they most definitely will be sellers, so who on the present team will be on a different team as of Monday at 3:00 EST? Kyle Davidson made a few minor deals when he was interim GM, (Laffery for Nylander and Gabriel for Chad Krys), as the real GM he could make a statement by being active. The team isn't going anywhere, so they'll probably shed some contracts and take back prospects or draft picks. It's so much more exciting when they are buyers to upgrade the team for a playoff run. I'll breakdown who I think might be available and what they should do and for fun I'll put a rating out of 10 for the likelihood of getting traded..

• Marc Andre Fleury (goal): Most of the talk around the league regarding the Hawks involves the availability of goalie, Marc Andre Fleury. Fleury has undoubtedly been the Blackhawks MVP this season and though the team has a losing record and will miss the playoffs again, imagine how worse the team would be if they didn't have the Flower in the nets. He has been responsible for many "goalie" wins when otherwise they had no business winning. He has kept the team competitive most nights and other contending teams with questionable goaltending will be inquiring about Fleury. There will be teams very interested, especially for last year's Vezina winner, possibly the Leafs, Oilers, Wild or even the Golden Knights could take him back (though, I would be shocked!). Fleury was only signed to a one year deal for this season, so unless they are planning to re-sign Marc Andre or he expresses he would like to stay in Chicago, the best thing of both parties would be a trade. Fleury could have a chance to compete in the playoffs and the Blackhawks could get a worthwhile return for their valuable asset. Fleury's recent history in the playoffs hasn't been a slam dunk that he'll be a difference maker, but his experience and competitive drive have been noticeable this season despite the collapse of the team early in the season. Will he be traded? Not totally convinced he will leave. 7/10
  
• Calvin de Haan (defense): One of the premier shot blockers and defensive defensemen in the league, I expect de Haan will attract some interest. The fact that de Haan will be a UFA after this season and the Hawks want to give some of their younger prospects an opportunity, now is the time to trade de Haan. As much as I like Calvin, he could fetch maybe a second rounder, a first might be too hopeful (which would be better than nothing if they let him walk this summer) and if Chairot can get a first rounder in 2023, a prospect and a 3rd rounder in 2022, this is a realistic request. Will he be traded? Very likely. 8/10
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• Erik Gustafsson (defense): I'm not sure why the Hawks signed Gus, even at the league minimum salary, his hockey skills have noticeably deteriorated since his first time around with the Hawks. During last year's playoffs with the Canadians, Gus saw spot duty when he dressed and really the only time he played was on the power-play. He played as if the puck was a live grenade and I grimaced whenever play was in the Canadian's zone. This season he hasn't been awful, but his reliability and play on the point of the PP is nerve-racking. He's also a UFA, but I can't see him being in demand, maybe the Oilers will take him. Will he be traded? Probably not. 5/10
  
• Patrick Kane (forward): Kane's name has come up in trade rumours, but he's untouchable, right? I'm not so sure, Kane has one more year left at 10.5 mil and Kyle Davidson, the new permanent GM stated he would let Kaner decide if he wanted to stay for a rebuild or play elsewhere. I'm sure Davidson would at least look at what is offered back. I thought earlier in the season Kane's play was uninspired and he seemed uninterested, but he has turned in a solid season and his play with DeBrincat may have sparked his play. He's chasing Hawks records, he's now 2nd all-time for assists and points, so maybe he's content playing in Chicago. I can't see him leaving this season, but this could be a serious discussion over the summer or next season. I personally would like to see him finish his career in Chicago, I would hate to see him go elsewhere to haunt his former team. Will he be traded? Doubtful 4/10
  
• Dominik Kubalik (forward): Dom is due to be a restricted free agent this summer after his 3.7 mil per/yr expires and though his value right now isn't high, he is expected to be paid more. The Hawks really can't afford him as his dollar value this season hasn't brought the returns they were expecting as Kubalik has struggled to score goals with only 11 so far. He is a streaky, but elite scorer and when he gets on a roll he is one of the most dangerous shooters on the team besides the Cat and Kane. He's trended downward since his first season when he sniped 30 goals and last year a disappointing 17. He's played up and down the lineup, with the opportunity to play on the top lines and the second PP unit and it would be shame to give up on Dom, but if he can get back a good return it should be considered. Supposedly, Anaheim, Edmonton and possibly Winnipeg might be interested. Will he be traded? Good chance 7/10 

• Dylan Strome (forward): A month ago Strome would have been near the top of the list of players that could be traded, but now it's less likely. If they wanted to trade him his value has definitely increased as he's had a pretty good couple of weeks, so they might want to reconsider. The Hawks depth at centre isn't deep, especially when Toews is out, Dach might be better suited to wing and Ryan Carpenter might not be around long (see below). Riding high on the top line with DeBrincat and Kane, we should see how this goes since Strome is showing signs he was worthy of being a high first rounder. I'm worried if he's dealt they won't get a fair return. Will he be traded? Not likely 6/10
• Ryan Carpenter (forward): Carpy is one of those players that could be a good addition to a playoff bound team. He's a good penalty killer, excellent fore-checker and a solid defensive 4th line forward, perfectly built for the playoffs. He's a character guy that isn't afraid to stand up for his teammates, a very valuable asset for any team. He's on an expiring contract and he's a good bang for his 1 mil. Will he be traded? Very possible. 8/10
• Brandon Hagel (forward): I heard that there have been inquires about Hagel. he is exactly the kind of player you want on your team. He is a relentless hustler, energizer bunny with " a nose over puck mentality" and this year has become a dependable scorer. He's fourth on the team in scoring and second in goals with 21, but the question is, can we expect more from Brandon or is this a one-off. Judging by his work ethic and the effort he puts out every shift it's hard to bet against him. He is a 6th round pick and if it's true team's are offering a first rounder he has exceeded expectations. He's a low cap hit and has two more years on his contract after this year. Personally, I wouldn't trade him. Why take the gamble of a draft pick for a player that you know what you have. There have been so many disappointing first rounders the Hawks have drafted and traded for that it's not worth the risk. Will he be traded? I hope not! 5/10

• Alex DeBrincat (forward): Apart from Fleury, the Cat has been the best Hawk this season. His goal scoring has been one of the few bright spots and consistency for team offensive. He has one more season at 6.4 mil (cap hit) and if I were the GM I would be talking extension as early as this summer. He has become one of the top elite goal scorers in the league, so I know there would be great interest if the Hawks were to insanely trade him. I would say he's the only untouchable (my opinion) player on the present roster. Will he be traded? No way! 2/10

There are a few other players on expiring contracts (Kurashev (RFA), Lafferty, C. Jones, Lankanen, Dach (RFA), but I don't think any of them will be traded. I can see the Hawks re-signing all of them to reasonably affordable contracts. I'm expecting the Hawks to make a few deals, but it won't be a fire sale. I'm guessing a lot of deals might happen on the weekend, so stay tuned!

Up next: What will the Jets do at the trade deadline?