Tyler Johnson: A Valuable Asset for the Blackhawks
The NHL trade deadline is approaching, and teams are assessing their rosters to determine which players might generate interest from contenders. For the Chicago Blackhawks, this season presents a different situation compared to last year. With several key players already re-signed, including Jason Dickinson, Petr Mrazek, and Nick Foligno, it seems unlikely that they will be major players in the trade market.
Under coach Luke Richardson, the Blackhawks faced uncertainty leading up to last year’s trade deadline. Players found themselves on the insiders’ trade boards, and Richardson had to make difficult decisions based on “hockey reasons.” The team experienced constant roster changes, with players coming and going. The sudden disappearance of star player Patrick Kane in San Jose left the team in disarray.
However, this year things are looking more stable for the Blackhawks. Although they have a few players who might attract attention at the deadline, such as Tyler Johnson, general manager Kyle Davidson has already secured key players on expiring contracts. Richardson shared his optimism, stating that the team feels different this year due to their ability to retain players.
Tyler Johnson, the only Blackhawks player listed on Chris Johnston of The Athletic’s trade deadline board, sits at number 30. While it is unlikely that he will be moved before the deadline, it is not entirely out of the realm of possibility. Despite missing several games due to injury, Johnson has been productive when healthy this season. He recently scored his 10th goal in a game against the Vancouver Canucks. If not for his injuries, Johnson would likely be on pace for a 20-goal season. Additionally, his experience in Stanley Cup runs makes him an attractive target for teams looking to add veteran leadership.
One advantage the Blackhawks have is their willingness to absorb half of Johnson’s $5 million cap hit. This flexibility could make him an even more appealing option for teams in need of scoring depth. However, Johnson remains calm about the possibility of being traded, acknowledging that it is something he cannot control.
While Johnson does have a modified no-trade clause in his contract, allowing him to reject trades to 20 teams, he downplays its significance. He admits that he cannot recall which teams are on his list. Instead, Johnson’s focus is on recovering from his foot injury and getting back to feeling good on the ice.
Looking beyond Johnson, it is unlikely that any other Blackhawks players will be moved at the deadline. However, as Johnson wisely states, “we’ll see what happens.” With the trade deadline fast approaching, teams are making their final assessments and decisions. The Blackhawks may not be major players this year, but the unpredictable nature of the NHL trade market means anything is possible.
In conclusion, the Blackhawks have found stability this season compared to the uncertainty of last year’s trade deadline. Tyler Johnson’s potential trade remains a possibility, but his value to the team cannot be denied. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Blackhawks to see if any unexpected moves are made.