3 Trade Deadline Candidates for the Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks sit dead last in the NHL with a 14-28-3 and are once again attempting the tank. Even though the attempt is so far a success, selling the farm will help the team out greatly in the future. Among the already young roster, here are three players who will eventually leave the basement of the league by the trade deadline.

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Hall Gaining Traction Outside the Windy City

Taylor Hall, 33, is the most likely player to be traded in the Blackhawks organization. His knee surgery only allowed him to play ten games last season. Since his surgery, Hall has not been able to return to his Hart Trophy glory days. Currently, Hall has only recorded 22 points (eight goals and 14 assists) in 44 games. This is a large difference to his 61 points (20g, 41a) that he recorded just three years with the Boston Bruins.

The former Edmonton Oiler is in the final year of his four-year, $24 million contract that was signed with the Bruins in 2021. With an annual cap hit of $6 million, only five teams can handle his contract without retention (CBJ, CGY, ANA, SJS, and NYR). Taking into account the one year they’ll have to deal with, they will probably either take back a large contract or retain half to get a sweet haul in return.

Donato is Playing Well for his Young Age

Despite his age of 28, Ryan Donato is one of the older guys on the Blackhawks roster. His 24 points (13g, 11a) is the fourth highest on the team behind names like Tyler Bertuzzi and Connor Bedard. Donato has looked very solid for the Blackhawks as of late, last season he recorded 30 points (12g, 18a) in 78 games. Considering he is also in his final contract year, the Blackhawks may need to give him up to let their prospects get ice time in the future.

Donato is getting paid $2 million per contract year, which is extremely cap-friendly for many teams. He has played an important role on every team that he has played on in his career so far. Since he entered the league, Donato has always been a consistent 20-30 point scorer. In a league where depth scoring is a priority, Donato helps the cause in big numbers.

Jones Receiving Calls Despite Massive Contract

Seth Jones, 30, has been seen by many as a “big deal without making a big deal.” He is getting paid $9.5 million per year until 2030. The former Nashville Predator has a no-move clause and can only be traded with his permission. Jones has 16 points (3g, 13a) in 29 games played, which is quite diminishing considering his large contract.

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Despite his inconsistencies on the ice, the Blackhawks have reportedly been gaining handfuls of interest as of late. According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, “Teams are calling, and they’re asking about Seth Jones’ availability.” He is a quality defenseman that is overshadowed by his lack of offensive consistency. If the Blackhawks can find a way to work around his contract, then Jones is a must-trade. With a contract like his out of the organization, the Blackhawks can have more breathing room when it comes to a Bedard contract extension.

Next: 3 Trade Deadline Candidates for the San Jose Sharks this Season