3 Players Blackhawks Could Trade Next

With rebuilding teams like the Chicago Blackhawks, you have to assume players on expiring contracts or a younger player with a bit of team control that doesn't fit into the future plans will be available for trade. That is what we have here as the Blackhawks, despite drafting Connor Bedard, aren't a playoff contender yet. Trades will surely come by the trade deadline.

Jason Dickinson

Jason Dickinson definitely got some attention at last season's trade deadline when he had a year remaining on his deal. I think some teams might have been turned off by the longer commitment there. But this season is his last under contract at $2.65 million AAV and he's been effective in his role. He will likely line up as the third line center with the potential to even play higher. He finished last season with nine goals and 30 points in 78 games, his best season in the NHL to date. As a rental, teams will show interest once again if he plays at a similar pace.

Colin Blackwell

Colin Blackwell might be one of those depth insurance trades for a team and the Blackhawks should be more than willing to execute. He will have trouble getting into games regularly, but is fully capable of. He missed about 30 games last season, but with the New York Rangers a few years ago, he showed that he can produce, scoring 12 goals and 22 points in 47 games. In a different situation, he could find some of that scoring again. The Blackhawks won't mind moving him for a late round pick this season as a rental.

Tyler Johnson

Tyler Johnson has the potential to be one of those mid-level trade deadline additions that won't cost a lot due to his cap hit, but will be effective in a different lineup. Half of his $5 million AAV cap hit will definitely have to be retained, so it will only cost a team $2.5 million against the cap, which is doable. He is a strong veteran presence that put together 12 goals and 32 points in 56 games last season. In the last year of his deal, the Blackhawks will be trying to move him and should get a couple bites.