NHL Trade Rumors: 5 players Blackhawks should target

The Chicago Blackhawks are once again going to be buyers at the NHL trade deadline. Here are five players they should target. 

Contending for a Stanley Cup title has become an annual tradition for the Chicago Blackhawks. Ever since winning their first championship in over 40 years in 2010, they’ve made it to the playoffs each season. And likewise, each season the Hawks have been aggressive buyers at the trade deadline.

This year, it’s different. Chicago put a lot of faith in their younger players this offseason and it has paid off. They’ve filled holes they were expected to and because of this, the team doesn’t have any glaring holes.

Of course, the Hawks will still be looking to add depth. You can never have too much of it and you’re never thankful for it until you need it. If you don’t have it, you’ll miss it if and when you need it.

Chicago must address their forward depth. Also, they have a stagnant power play they should be looking to improve. Chicago’s usually good for making at least one blue line depth move each year as well. Here are five players you should expect them to target.

5. Cody Franson

The Hawks have no fewer than seven or eight defensemen who Joel Quenneville trusts. That’s quite the compliment considering he’s a hard guy to please. However, looking at their defensemen, they could use a puck mover. Cody Franson of the Buffalo Sabres fits the bill.

His cap hit will be an issue, but don’t question Chicago’s front office. They get things done. The Hawks have been relying heavily on their top three lines (namely their top two). So perhaps Coach Q will adopt the seven defensemen strategy for the playoffs. If he does, Franson could be a guy who adds something to the power play.