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Thoughts on the Blackhawks/Coyotes trade?

November 26, 2018, 1:21 PM ET [19 Comments]
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In this edition of the hotstove, we share our thoughts on the big trade between Chicago and Arizona.



Todd Cordell

I think this trade is pretty reasonable for both sides.

Arizona was desperate for more offense and Nick Schmaltz will provide that. Since the beginning of 2017-18, Nick Schmaltz has averaged 1.76 points per 60 at 5v5. That's a solid number and much better than Brendan Perlini's average of 1.00. Schmaltz is a more effective player through the neutral zone, too.

From Chicago's perspective, they're downgrading from Schmaltz to Perlini in hopes Dylan Strome can turn into a player. His underlying numbers are respectable and he's never really gotten consistent minutes with decent linemates. I think he is capable of more if given a real chance alongside someone like Alex DeBrincat on the 2nd line. If that proves true, Chicago will be comfortable with the deal as well.

Arizona made the safer bet but, again, I could see it paying off for both parties.

James Tanner

The Coyotes and Blackhawks have made an interesting trade here. I am a huge Dylan Strome fan and I think the Coyotes have held him back (who knows why? Is Tocchet terrible? Does he have off-ice issues? Attitude problems? I can only go by his stats.) And his stats are good.

Strome is a 6'4 potential #1 centre who would have won the AHL scoring title if he wasn't called up. He was almost a point a game during the only time he was really given any minutes. This year, his most common linemates were Crouse and Cousins. His shooting percentage is under 4%. The Hawks could really hit this out of the park.

On the other side of the coin, if the Coyotes weren't prepared to punt the season or fire their coach, this move had to be made. Schmaltz is a really good return and they are trading a potential #1 for a guaranteed #2 who can also become a #1. He's faster and better defensively. There are good odds he's the best player in this deal. So this is a short-term win for the Coyotes based on circumstance, and they could get really, really hammered on this deal in the long run. It will be interesting to see. As for Perlini, they could have waived him and I would not have cared.

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