It’s time for another installment of NHL rumors. As we approach the end of October, the NHL scene is still buzzing with speculation. General managers are exploring various strategies to strengthen their rosters, some opting for signings while others may pursue trades. One team aiming to enhance their forward lineup is the Chicago Blackhawks, and this edition of NHL rumors focuses on their efforts to increase their center depth.
All NHL rumors originate from original sources and can change at any time.
**Chicago Blackhawks Seek Additional Center Depth**
Rumor: Several insiders, including Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, report that the Blackhawks are looking to enhance the depth in their center positions. This was highlighted in a recent written update from 32 Thoughts.
Analysis: Friedman noted that the Blackhawks have been monitoring potential centers in the past few weeks. Although Chicago has made some trades to improve their standings, they are still experiencing slow progress.
Currently, the Blackhawks sit at the bottom of the Central Division with a 2-6-1 record as they head into Monday’s games. Despite making numerous signings, they remain at the bottom of the standings.
While the team has some promising young talent, they will require time to mature. It appears Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson is attempting to provide the younger players with some veteran support.
**Capitalizing on Assets**
One way the Blackhawks could secure a center is by utilizing their numerous draft picks. According to Blackhawks beat writer Ben Pope and podcast host Jay Zawaski, the team could leverage their abundance of draft selections to acquire a center.
Pope noted that the team possesses 11 first and second-round picks over the next three NHL Drafts, which could be valuable in obtaining a center in their mid-20s to bolster the lineup.
Chicago must also be mindful of the 50-contract limit, as mentioned by Pope. The Blackhawks likely won’t be able to sign all the players they draft if they retain all their picks, so bundling selections in a trade could help avoid this issue.
**Anticipating Growth**
There are several promising young players on the roster, but they have yet to secure the number-two center role. Frank Nazar has not claimed the second-line center position, and Philipp Kurashev has not made a strong impression.
Making a trade would be the next step in improving Chicago’s lineup. However, Pope notes that Davidson is reluctant to part with any top-tier prospects, as he has a wealth of young talent developing in Rockford in the AHL, which he likely wants to retain.
Friedman mentions that several teams, such as the Nashville Predators and Calgary Flames, are also seeking center help. This places Chicago in a favorable position to make a trade, given their ample draft assets.
