Are Blackhawks Targeting Canucks About a First-Round Draft Trade?

Specifically, The Athletic’s Scott Powers took a look at draft plans and wondered if they might do anything something else with the Vancouver Canucks. He writes:

The Blackhawks aren’t optimistic about their chances to move up from their second first-round pick at No. 19. Even if the Blackhawks package the No. 19 pick and a second-rounder or two, that probably isn’t enough for a team to budge from a top-15 selection. The Vancouver Canucks might be the only team that could make sense.

He adds that the Canucks might be open to making a move if it means shedding an overpriced contract. He notes, “If the Blackhawks took on one of those contracts and packaged a first- and second-round pick, maybe that would entice the Canucks to trade the No. 11 pick.” With the No. 11 pick, the Blackhawks could potentially add another future top-level player.

The Blackhawks Are Still Rebuilding Despite Winning the Lottery

He adds that the Blackhawks are ready to listen to any team that wants to offload a contract this offseason. While they get the best player in the draft, they know they are still a ways away from competing and will act like a rebuilding club for the next couple of seasons. He adds, “The Blackhawks know eventually they’re going to have to worry about their cap space again, but that’s at least a few years away. There’s even a possibility of the Blackhawks acquiring a player and then buying him out. They have that sort of flexibility for now.”

Next: