NHL Trade Rumors: Proposed Trade Sends Jonathan Huberdeau To Chicago Blackhawks
Adam Gretz of Bleacher Report has proposed a trade that could potentially reshape the futures of both the Calgary Flames and the Chicago Blackhawks.
The suggested deal involves sending star forward Jonathan Huberdeau to Chicago in exchange for elite defenseman Seth Jones.
Huberdeau, once a top-five offensive player in the NHL during his time with the Florida Panthers, has struggled to adapt to the Flames' style of play since joining the team.
Since December 31st, Jonathan Huberdeau has 29 points in 35 games. That's a 68 point pace over 82 games.
— Robert Munnich (@RingOfFireCGY) March 27, 2024
It's his best stretch of games since joining the Flames.
He would have even more points if his linemates could finish off some of the nice passes he's made recently. pic.twitter.com/OxugtYYTmw
His eight-year, $84 million contract has quickly become one of the league's most burdensome deals. However, a fresh start in Chicago's up-tempo system, alongside emerging superstar Connor Bedard, might help Huberdeau regain his scoring prowess and revitalize his career, as noted by Gretz.
Over his two years in Calgary, the 30-year-old has recorded 27 goals and 80 assists for 107 total points across 160 games played.
For the Blackhawks, acquiring Huberdeau could provide the offensive boost needed to complement Bedard, potentially restoring Huberdeau's production to his previous elite level, which we saw in the 2021-22 season, where he recorded 30 goals and 85 assists across 80 games played.
This change in environment and playing style could help unlock Huberdeau's full potential, giving Chicago a dynamic offensive duo. He has seven years remaining on his contract, carrying an AAV of $10.5M.
On the other side, the Flames would receive Seth Jones, a strong defenseman whose contract, although still substantial, is one year shorter and $1 million less per season than Huberdeau's.
This swap offers Calgary some financial relief and addresses their pressing need for defensive reinforcements after they moved on from Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin.
Seth Jones picks up his 4th assist of #MensWorlds 🇺🇸
— Four Feathers Podcast (@FourFeathersPod) May 16, 2024
pic.twitter.com/VoDQgJ23E5
Jones has six years remaining on his 8-year, $76M contract ($9.5M AAV), signed back in 2021.
Over his three years in Chicago, the 29-year-old has recorded 25 goals, 94 assists, 119 total points, a -90 plus/minus rating, 282 hits, and 411 blocked shots across 217 games played.
This proposed trade presents a mutually beneficial solution for both teams. Huberdeau could thrive in a more fitting offensive system in Chicago, while Jones would bolster Calgary's defense, making the financial and hockey aspects of the deal align well for both franchises.
By offering a fresh start for two talented but currently underperforming players, this trade could be a win-win scenario that helps both teams achieve long-term success.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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