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NHL Trade Talk Recap: Blackhawks, Canucks, Oilers

NHL Trade Talk Recap Jan. 11: What are the top objectives at the deadline for the Oilers, Blackhawks, and Canucks? Plus tons of NHL action.

by
Jim Parsons
January 11, 2025

In another NHL Trade Talk Recap (Jan. 11), we looked closely at three teams and their top objectives heading into the NHL Trade Deadline. The Edmonton Oilers want to upgrade their blue line, but have to find out where Evander Kane sits first. The Vancouver Canucks need a top-four puck mover, and the Chicago Blackhawks are going to sell. But they have to limit their mistakes.

There was also action on Saturday as the Canucks shut out the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Oilers battled back against the Blackhawks, and more.

Top NHL Trade Talk Recap Story:

Oilers Rally Back Against Blackhawks, What Do Oilers Need at the Deadline?

The Oilers had another slow start but found a way to rally back versus the Blackhawks on Saturday, taking over the final two periods. It was a 4-3 comeback win, with Zach Hyman potting the game-winner on the power play. What were the key takeaways?

We also talked Jeff Skinner being a healthy scratch and how that’s coming across to the fan base. We also asked if Rasmus Andersson would change his tune if traded to the Oilers. After all, he did tell the media that he hates the team.

Read the Entire Jeff Skinner Post Here:

Canucks Shut Out Leafs, What Do They Need at the Deadline?

The Toronto Maple Leafs got booed off the ice after a brutal performance on Saturday. Kevin Lankinen earned a shutout win for the Canucks, their first against Toronto in Toronto.

When it comes to the trade deadline, according to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Canucks aren’t just looking for a defenseman. “The Canucks have been pining for a more efficient puck-mover on the back end since training camp broke.” Can they find a partner for Quinn Hughes? He remains an elite player, but he’s playing all the time.

Blackhawks Will Be Sellers, What Do They Do at the Deadline?

As for the Blackhawks, Seravalli also wrote that GM Kyle Davidson could “go scorched earth and sell off veterans, but to what end?” The better play might be to sell, starting with Taylor Hall, but the take their time, moving only assets that get the team a solid return. Don’t just sell to sell.

Read More Than the Recap Here:

How Good is Jakub Dobes?

Old Prof took a closer look at the progression and projection of Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jakub Dobes. Before this season, he wasn’t on anyone’s radar. Now, he’s a budding future star.

Who is he? And what has made him so darn good this season?

Read a More In-Depth Bio on Dobes