.....what about Keith Yandle?
- BURDA13

Would love to have Yandle on the Hawks and if they could shed enough salary in the off season. Having a top 4 of Keith, Hammer, Seabrook and Yandle would be cheating. But because math that doesn't work out.

NYR would need proven scoring and\or a mobile defender coming back to make it worth their while since I think they need to try and win now. Not sure how the Hawks get that done since they need the same things.

so, if you guys need some junk to fill in the bottom of your roster, let us know.

we have plenty to go around.
- Tumbleweed

You can keep Polak IMO.

Hawks won't be adding to the bottom 6 but looking for a 1LW.

If something does happen with the Leafs - it could be for more of the older prospects in Rockford. Some of which would probably make Babcock's roster.

Thanks for all the rumors JJ! Best blogger on this site.

Regarding the rumors with Scotty watching the Bolts game.. If JT Brown is being discussed it could mean one of our bottom 6 might be going the other way. Dont know, but it seems like the Hawks are still focused on Drouin.

Getting excited over pounding the AVS and saying that the team has "arrived" or whatever seems premature. Colorado is not good. Yay for winning games they should win though.

I also think that most GM's \ front offices in the league aren't completely stupid. Meaning, they aren't going to eat Bickell's deal for free.

It should also be fairly obvious at this point that the Hawks are a 1 line team (scoring wise) and any top 6 talent is going to be an overpay at this point.

And if you further look at the Hawks roster, they are set up right now to run into the playoffs with some combination 2 rookies and two guys who don't look like they are going to be able to offer much outside of "intangibles" and veteran whatever for half of the blue line positions. So any improvement there will "cost."

I wouldn't make a deal with them as a GM unless they had a prospect that really did it for me (TT, Dano, Gus Gus to start). Or they were willing to move a "core" or centerpiece.

Plenty of other teams looking to add that may have more flexibility to eat bad dollars or part with something shinier. Why do the Hawks any favors?

Thanks for all the rumors JJ! Best blogger on this site.
- ikeane

Thank Keaner. You're too kind.

Thanks for the updates, JJ.

To me, the real question with some of these rumored LWs is whether or not they are the solution for this season at 1LW. Boedker and Drouin both seem like future answers, which is fine in general, but what is the answer this year?

I'm okay with Shaw playing 1LW this year. He's certainly earned it.

The Jets rumor is certainly a bit odd. Admittedly I haven't watched a lot of Chiarot. What do they project with him?

Regarding dealing Bickell, I would think any deal has to be more attractive than buying out the final year this summer for it to be considered. Same with Scuderi.

Getting excited over pounding the AVS and saying that the team has "arrived" or whatever seems premature. Colorado is not good. Yay for winning games they should win though.

I also think that most GM's \ front offices in the league aren't completely stupid. Meaning, they aren't going to eat Bickell's deal for free.

It should also be fairly obvious at this point that the Hawks are a 1 line team (scoring wise) and any top 6 talent is going to be an overpay at this point.

And if you further look at the Hawks roster, they are set up right now to run into the playoffs with some combination 2 rookies and two guys who don't look like they are going to be able to offer much outside of "intangibles" and veteran whatever for half of the blue line positions. So any improvement there will "cost."

I wouldn't make a deal with them as a GM unless they had a prospect that really did it for me (TT, Dano, Gus Gus to start). Or they were willing to move a "core" or centerpiece.

Plenty of other teams looking to add that may have more flexibility to eat bad dollars or part with something shinier. Why do the Hawks any favors?
- fattybeef

This is pretty much spot on, top to bottom. And as I hear it, TT, Dano and Gustafsson are the asks from other teams.

This is pretty much spot on, top to bottom. And as I hear it, TT, Dano and Gustafsson are the asks from other teams.
- John Jaeckel

100% no on Gusto. That kid is a keeper.

Wish my blogger has the sources to provide rumors......

JJ, ur one of the best on this site hands down, keep up the good work....
- Ur Not Me

Wow, thanks bud. You know in fairness, I have some seniority now after 7 years, only a few bloggers left who were here when I got here (Meltzer, Tessier, Ek, Engels, one or two others maybe) and that has allowed me to accumulate some sources. So in all honesty, some of this is just surviving and showing up on my part and nothing more. But I REALLY appreciate your support.

Boedker is similar to Saad. He isn't as strong but he is faster. Having him fly down the ice with or without the puck would open up lanes for Toews and Hossa.
- Dabearshawks

I agree, Toews and Hossa need someone to take the attention off of them. Boedker will definitely give them more speed, but what I'd really like to see is if Toews and Hossa can make Boedker a better player like we've seen in Panarin and Anisimov.

JJ, do you believe the addition of Boedker (hypothetically) will make the first line "lethal" as was reported?

Once again thanks for the rumors.
- 93Joe

Boedker actually reminds me a lot of Patrick Sharp, a young Patrick Sharp, maybe not the pure sniper/scorer Sharpie is/was, but he has that versatility to play all over the ice and sheer speed (more than Sharp ever had).

There was a special chemistry with Saad and JT and Hossa.

And I will just say this, speed kills in hockey. Other teams always had to account for Saad and the stretch, transition pass, and they would have to with Boedker. The Hawks have 3 defensemen who excel at it, and even Rozy is not bad in that regard.

That fear, in turn, opens everything up for the other two guys. Give Toews and Hossa note room to operate and create and only good things happen.

Thanks so much JJ and everyone else for the info/good posts...

Since JJ started it (WPG) I can now confirm it. The Hawks are talking with the Jets (started during the All Star break) but its for more than just a DMan. Right now its a multi player deal that would involve one active roster player from the Hawks. And JJ is right, there is no discussion between the teams regarding Buff or Ladd...the Hawks would like Ladd, but the EC bidding prices are too high. Look for a move from the Jets relatively soon.

As for folks being concerned about Boedkker's +/- rating, the thing to look at with a player like that is their commitment to defence. Is he just a "hawk" waiting for breakout passes, and the answer is no. He hustles on defence and back checks...and on a line with Toews and Hossa, NO ONE would consider "dogging it" for a second, so IMO its not an issue at all.

As DBH said, Boedkker's speed will open up massive space for both Toews and Hossa with the puck, and that can only help their production.

As for teams asking for Teravainen, I was told the #1 player that teams are calling on is Marko Dano. If the Hawks will part with Dano, they'll get Drouin, and could close on a number of deals around the league.

Also, I have been hesitating saying the particulars about CAR, but Francis and Bowman have kicked the tires on a Jeff Skinner deal, where CAR would be taking back part of his contract. But again, they want Dano and no Bickell. I was told that for Dano Bowman was wanting to add a DMan, but that involved CAR taking back a current roster player. Bowman and Francis have also discussed Staal, Rask and Versteeg. Two notes on Eric Staal, he wants to come to CHI and has agreed to play LW on the Toews line, should the need arise. The issue is his massive Cap hit...so Staal would more than likely become a rental player. Again, it could happen because Francis likes Marko Dano, however, as Wiz said, I just don't see Bowman moving Dano (at all) for anything less than a future roster player.

As JJ mentioned, Bowman currently is in talks with a NUMBER of teams, and with that an even larger number of players. Bowman has a "preferred" short list, but is allowing himself to go in any number of directions should those deals fall apart.

A couple of final notes, VAN has reproached the Hawks yesterday and "upped" their end of deal that would see them acquiring Dano. There's no word from CGY right now, as Treliving has asked ownership for another week to "see" if they can make a playoff push (incredible).

Have a great day everyone!

Boedker actually reminds me a lot of Patrick Sharp, a young Patrick Sharp, maybe not the pure sniper/scorer Sharpie is/was, but he has that versatility to play all over the ice and sheer speed (more than Sharp ever had).

There was a special chemistry with Saad and JT and Hossa.

And I will just say this, speed kills in hockey. Other teams always had to account for Saad and the stretch, transition pass, and they would have to with Boedker. The Hawks have 3 defensemen who excel at it, and even Rozy is not bad in that regard.

That fear, in turn, opens everything up for the other two guys. Give Toews and Hossa note room to operate and create and only good things happen.
- John Jaeckel

That is exactly right JJ, more open puck handling space for both Toews and Hossa will simply lead to more goals being scored. That's why Boedkker would be a nice fit on that line...which is also why Drouin might be a nice fit on that line.

Wow, thanks bud. You know in fairness, I have some seniority now after 7 years, only a few bloggers left who were here when I got here (Meltzer, Tessier, Ek, Engels, one or two others maybe) and that has allowed me to accumulate some sources. So in all honesty, some of this is just surviving and showing up on my part and nothing more. But I REALLY appreciate your support.
- John Jaeckel

Far too modest.

JJ, is this more or about the same activity the team has every year? I would like to know from someone with sources, How do trade talks begin, with Stan or Scotty contacting the other teams? Does Scotty push players Stan's way, or does Stan get Scotty to pull them in?
- powerenforcer

I think a little more activity. Here's why (in a nutshell):

1) The Hawks would really like to add on both the blue line AND upfront. They have limited cap room. So it follows then that they'll be exploring a LOT of scenarios.
2) I think they want their additions on the ice, under Q, as soon as possible to get them slotted and coached up and optimized for the playoffs.

As far as the other question, teams contact the Hawks, the Hawks contact other teams. I think a lot of the contact is between Stan and other GMs but I have also heard that there are conversations that start (and end) with Scotty—but that is the exception, rather than the rule. For example, Tampa. Scotty lives down there and has a LONG, RESPECTFUL relationship with Steve Yzerman, and so I hear they do talk. Doesn't exclude Stan. But Scotty plays more of a lead role perhaps.

My belief is that Stan and Q talk a lot about deals, more so than in the past. AND that Stan has a bit more autonomy than he used to in making deals as far gaining organizational buy in. He should. The guy has proven himself. And a GM MUST have the latitude to move quickly on things—which in my opinion, he did not have in the past.

Also, I haven't heard a thing about Bickell being moved. The Hawks will simply have to either "ride him out" for one more season, or buy him out in June and take a 2 year Cap hit...he simply cannot skate at the NHL level right now, which is what I reported to everyone here this past summer. Bickell can talk all he wants about his "vertigo" issues, but the swelling in his left knee never once came out over the summer...and half a season of pounding on it, hasn't helped.

Thanks so much JJ and everyone else for the info/good posts...

Since JJ started it (WPG) I can now confirm it. The Hawks are talking with the Jets (started during the All Star break) but its for more than just a DMan. Right now its a multi player deal that would involve one active roster player from the Hawks. And JJ is right, there is no discussion between the teams regarding Buff or Ladd...the Hawks would like Ladd, but the EC bidding prices are too high. Look for a move from the Jets relatively soon.

As for folks being concerned about Boedkker's +/- rating, the thing to look at with a player like that is their commitment to defence. Is he just a "hawk" waiting for breakout passes, and the answer is no. He hustles on defence and back checks...and on a line with Toews and Hossa, NO ONE would consider "dogging it" for a second, so IMO its not an issue at all.

As DBH said, Boedkker's speed will open up massive space for both Toews and Hossa with the puck, and that can only help their production.

As for teams asking for Teravainen, I was told the #1 player that teams are calling on is Marko Dano. If the Hawks will part with Dano, they'll get Drouin, and could close on a number of deals around the league.

Also, I have been hesitating saying the particulars about CAR, but Francis and Bowman have kicked the tires on a Jeff Skinner deal, where CAR would be taking back part of his contract. But again, they want Dano and no Bickell. I was told that for Dano Bowman was wanting to add a DMan, but that involved CAR taking back a current roster player. Bowman and Francis have also discussed Staal, Rask and Versteeg. Two notes on Eric Staal, he wants to come to CHI and has agreed to play LW on the Toews line, should the need arise. The issue is his massive Cap hit...so Staal would more than likely become a rental player. Again, it could happen because Francis likes Marko Dano, however, as Wiz said, I just don't see Bowman moving Dano (at all) for anything less than a future roster player.

As JJ mentioned, Bowman currently is in talks with a NUMBER of teams, and with that an even larger number of players. Bowman has a "preferred" short list, but is allowing himself to go in any number of directions should those deals fall apart.

A couple of final notes, VAN has reproached the Hawks yesterday and "upped" their end of deal that would see them acquiring Dano. There's no word from CGY right now, as Treliving has asked ownership for another week to "see" if they can make a playoff push (incredible).

Have a great day everyone!
- MexicoHawk

Thanks for the kind words also, Mex and for the info.

As far as Boedker, a couple of things really jump out at me when I watch him—aside from his great speed.

1) He is an athlete. This guy can not only fly but he is highly skilled in all the essentials, 360 degree skating, passing, shooting.

But Jack Skille is also a very good athlete, which leads to:

2) Boedker has been incredibly well-coached at all levels. I said he reminds me of Sharp but he also reminds me of TT and Hossa in that his skill and sense is so refined. Like 81 and 86, he is a guy who could play any of the 5 skating positions because he has all the hockey basics down, and he thinks the game at a high level.

Personally, I think this guy could be a huge star with the Hawks where he would be surrounded by talent that he has not played with in Arizona—not even close.

Thanks so much JJ and everyone else for the info/good posts...

Since JJ started it (WPG) I can now confirm it. The Hawks are talking with the Jets (started during the All Star break) but its for more than just a DMan. Right now its a multi player deal that would involve one active roster player from the Hawks. And JJ is right, there is no discussion between the teams regarding Buff or Ladd...the Hawks would like Ladd, but the EC bidding prices are too high. Look for a move from the Jets relatively soon.

As for folks being concerned about Boedkker's +/- rating, the thing to look at with a player like that is their commitment to defence. Is he just a "hawk" waiting for breakout passes, and the answer is no. He hustles on defence and back checks...and on a line with Toews and Hossa, NO ONE would consider "dogging it" for a second, so IMO its not an issue at all.

As DBH said, Boedkker's speed will open up massive space for both Toews and Hossa with the puck, and that can only help their production.

As for teams asking for Teravainen, I was told the #1 player that teams are calling on is Marko Dano. If the Hawks will part with Dano, they'll get Drouin, and could close on a number of deals around the league.

Also, I have been hesitating saying the particulars about CAR, but Francis and Bowman have kicked the tires on a Jeff Skinner deal, where CAR would be taking back part of his contract. But again, they want Dano and no Bickell. I was told that for Dano Bowman was wanting to add a DMan, but that involved CAR taking back a current roster player. Bowman and Francis have also discussed Staal, Rask and Versteeg. Two notes on Eric Staal, he wants to come to CHI and has agreed to play LW on the Toews line, should the need arise. The issue is his massive Cap hit...so Staal would more than likely become a rental player. Again, it could happen because Francis likes Marko Dano, however, as Wiz said, I just don't see Bowman moving Dano (at all) for anything less than a future roster player.

As JJ mentioned, Bowman currently is in talks with a NUMBER of teams, and with that an even larger number of players. Bowman has a "preferred" short list, but is allowing himself to go in any number of directions should those deals fall apart.

A couple of final notes, VAN has reproached the Hawks yesterday and "upped" their end of deal that would see them acquiring Dano. There's no word from CGY right now, as Treliving has asked ownership for another week to "see" if they can make a playoff push (incredible).

Have a great day everyone!
- MexicoHawk

Who could the 'Hawks possibly want from VAN that isn't one of their younger talents? For Vrbata it would be an overpay; Burrows' production has fallen off a cliff from where it was 5 years ago; and no one else on the team is really worth it (Tanev is a good defense-men but he's apparently untouchable).

Thanks for the kind words also, Mex and for the info.

As far as Boedker, a couple of things really jump out at me when I watch him—aside from his great speed.

1) He is an athlete. This guy can not only fly but he is highly skilled in all the essentials, 360 degree skating, passing, shooting.

But Jack Skille is also a very good athlete, which leads to:

2) Boedker has been incredibly well-coached at all levels. I said he reminds me of Sharp but he also reminds me of TT and Hossa in that his skill and sense is so refined. Like 81 and 86, he is a guy who could play any of the 5 skating positions because he has all the hockey basics down, and he thinks the game at a high level.

Personally, I think this guy could be a huge star with the Hawks where he would be surrounded by talent that he has not played with in Arizona—not even close.
- John Jaeckel

You sold me. It also isn't terrible that he has slumped the last month or so. Maybe the price could be the same as Vermette but end up with Boedker signing here?

I think a little more activity. Here's why (in a nutshell):

1) The Hawks would really like to add on both the blue line AND upfront. They have limited cap room. So it follows then that they'll be exploring a LOT of scenarios.
2) I think they want their additions on the ice, under Q, as soon as possible to get them slotted and coached up and optimized for the playoffs.

As far as the other question, teams contact the Hawks, the Hawks contact other teams. I think a lot of the contact is between Stan and other GMs but I have also heard that there are conversations that start (and end) with Scotty—but that is the exception, rather than the rule. For example, Tampa. Scotty lives down there and has a LONG, RESPECTFUL relationship with Steve Yzerman, and so I hear they do talk. Doesn't exclude Stan. But Scotty plays more of a lead role perhaps.

My belief is that Stan and Q talk a lot about deals, more so than in the past. AND that Stan has a bit more autonomy than he used to in making deals as far gaining organizational buy in. He should. The guy has proven himself. And a GM MUST have the latitude to move quickly on things—which in my opinion, he did not have in the past.
- John Jaeckel

Excellent points JJ. First, Scotty is a LIVING LEGEND in the NHL. Half of the "old boys" group that run the NHL don't like him as they didn't come from any of his dynasties and carry a lot of jealousy to the almost "God-like" admiration Scotty gets (deservedly) in many circles. However, the other half are Scotty Bowman disciples through and through. I am told that Scotty has a very close relationship with Stevie Y. (and other GMs) and that Yzerman has "leaned" on him a number of times since taking the Tampa post. Conflict of interest? People in the NHL simply don't talk about it.

JJ is also right about the improving Bowman/Quenneville relationship. Bowman is no longer fighting the fact that Joel controls the "lineup card" and as such EVERYTHING gets run past Q first, which is exactly the way that Q wants it (and should have it...he's one of the three best coaches in hockey history!).

The process involving trades is pretty similar league wide. All GMs have an email grouping of each other, and they will fire off "teasers" or "floats" on a consistent basis, so that everyone around the league has an idea of what is or isn't available. From there, specific GMs who have an interest email back privately, and then talks proceed. The thing to note in the Cap age is this...not everything works out because of Cap issues, so GMs MUST have "shortlists" and "longlists" if they expect to make deals. This is why Bowman can be sitting on a potential deal with CAR for weeks, without closing on it...he's looking for something better elsewhere...and that team might be doing the exact same thing as well...and so it goes...

Who could the 'Hawks possibly want from VAN that isn't one of their younger talents? For Vrbata it would be an overpay; Burrows' production has fallen off a cliff from where it was 5 years ago; and no one else on the team is really worth it (Tanev is a good defense-men but he's apparently untouchable).
- TommyHawk

Burrows will never be a Blackhawk. Burrows will never, ever be a Blackhawk. Burrows. Blackhawk. Never.

Ok. Back from my safe space.

Who could the 'Hawks possibly want from VAN that isn't one of their younger talents? For Vrbata it would be an overpay; Burrows' production has fallen off a cliff from where it was 5 years ago; and no one else on the team is really worth it (Tanev is a good defense-men but he's apparently untouchable).
- TommyHawk

A multi player deal has been discussed involving youth and age. The issue is the Cap cost to CHI. Vancouver "upped" their end by agreeing to take back more salary on the veteran player. That's all that I can say.

Thanks so much JJ and everyone else for the info/good posts...

Since JJ started it (WPG) I can now confirm it. The Hawks are talking with the Jets (started during the All Star break) but its for more than just a DMan. Right now its a multi player deal that would involve one active roster player from the Hawks. And JJ is right, there is no discussion between the teams regarding Buff or Ladd...the Hawks would like Ladd, but the EC bidding prices are too high. Look for a move from the Jets relatively soon.

As for folks being concerned about Boedkker's +/- rating, the thing to look at with a player like that is their commitment to defence. Is he just a "hawk" waiting for breakout passes, and the answer is no. He hustles on defence and back checks...and on a line with Toews and Hossa, NO ONE would consider "dogging it" for a second, so IMO its not an issue at all.

As DBH said, Boedkker's speed will open up massive space for both Toews and Hossa with the puck, and that can only help their production.

As for teams asking for Teravainen, I was told the #1 player that teams are calling on is Marko Dano. If the Hawks will part with Dano, they'll get Drouin, and could close on a number of deals around the league.

Also, I have been hesitating saying the particulars about CAR, but Francis and Bowman have kicked the tires on a Jeff Skinner deal, where CAR would be taking back part of his contract. But again, they want Dano and no Bickell. I was told that for Dano Bowman was wanting to add a DMan, but that involved CAR taking back a current roster player. Bowman and Francis have also discussed Staal, Rask and Versteeg. Two notes on Eric Staal, he wants to come to CHI and has agreed to play LW on the Toews line, should the need arise. The issue is his massive Cap hit...so Staal would more than likely become a rental player. Again, it could happen because Francis likes Marko Dano, however, as Wiz said, I just don't see Bowman moving Dano (at all) for anything less than a future roster player.

As JJ mentioned, Bowman currently is in talks with a NUMBER of teams, and with that an even larger number of players. Bowman has a "preferred" short list, but is allowing himself to go in any number of directions should those deals fall apart.

A couple of final notes, VAN has reproached the Hawks yesterday and "upped" their end of deal that would see them acquiring Dano. There's no word from CGY right now, as Treliving has asked ownership for another week to "see" if they can make a playoff push (incredible).

Have a great day everyone!
- MexicoHawk

interesting stuff.

you ever reveal who your sources are / how you're connected to the team?

JJ, Mex, Thanks for answering my question. It is interesting for us "outsiders" to really understand the relationships these GM's have with one another.

Thanks for giving us the information you get,it must be hard to hold some stuff back (because we know you know more than you write about).