Latest Chicago Blackhawks trade rumors
CHICAGO SUN-TIMES: Mark Lazerus wonders what the Chicago Blackhawks will do with their extra salary cap space. He feels the Blackhawks must do something this summer. They can’t go into 2018-19 with their current roster and expect to make the playoffs in the very competitive Central Division. Lazerus suggests bringing back center Marcus Kruger in the Marian Hossa trade could make Artem Anisimov more expendable, which could free up an additional $4.55 million per season. That could create room to pursue Justin Faulk or maybe Faulk and Jeff Skinner. He also suggested it could be enough to pursue Max Pacioretty.
Will the Detroit Red Wings trade Andreas Athanasiou?
DETROIT FREE PRESS: Despite the Detroit Red Wings’ recent re-signing of winger Andreas Athanasiou to a two-year, $6-million contract, Helene St. James said it wouldn’t be surprising if they traded him at some point. “If they get a good offer — at least a second-round pick or a good prospect, preferably a defenseman — he could be flipped to help the rebuild,” she wrote. St. James acknowledged Athanasiou’s speed and offensive skills but noted he’s a streaky scorer and his defensive game needs improvement. She suggested his new contract could also bolster his trade value.
What will the Ottawa Senators do with Matt Duchene?
Matt Duchene is due to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. There’s no indication he’s had contract extension discussions with GM Pierre Dorion. With the Ottawa Senators rebuilding and seemingly on the verge of trading their franchise player, one wonders where Duchene fits into their plans. For that matter, does he even see a long-term future in Ottawa? The Senators are in the midst of a significant rebuild that could take years to complete. Duchene is now in his late-twenties and entering his 10th NHL campaign. He’s only tasted post-season action twice, in 2010 and 2014 with the Avalanche. He could soon reach the stage in his career where he places a priority on playing for a Stanley Cup contender. That’s not going to happen anytime soon in Ottawa.
Duchene is in the final season of a five-year, $30-million deal. Approaching unrestricted free agency for the first time, this will be his best opportunity to cash in big while still in his playing prime. Duchene could seek over $7 million annually on a seven- or eight-year deal. Should that prove too expensive for the Senators, they could shop his services before next year’s 2019 NHL trade deadline.
