Blackhawks send Ryan Hartman to Nashville for first-round pick

The Chicago Blackhawks trade young forward Ryan Hartman to the Nashville Predators for a first-round pick and a bit more.

Ryan Hartman is headed to Nashville as the Predators load up for another run at the Stanley Cup. Here is the full trade from TSN’s Bob McKenzie.

The Predators have been one of the most aggressive teams in acquiring talent over the last couple of seasons. Earlier this year, they brought in Kyle Turris is shore up their offensive skill. The addition of Hartman adds more depth to their already talented lineup.

Hartman has 25 points in 57 games for the Blackhawks this season. He scored 19 goals for Chicago last season. He played four playoff games for the Blackhawks last year, but didn’t register a point and finished minus-three with 14 penalty minutes.

He should slide into the third line on Nashville. The Predators added to their depth earlier in the day when they officially re-signed Mike Fisher to play the rest of the season.

The Blackhawks were reportedly looking for a first-round pick plus someone else in exchange for Hartman. Nashville thought enough of the Hartman to meet Chicago’s asking price. The first-round pick in 2018 will likely fall in the late 20’s. Victor Ejdsell is a 22-year-old forward who went undrafted to the Predators.

Next: NHL Trade Deadline 2018: Rumors and deals tracker

It’s possible that the Blackhawks aren’t done for the day. Being out of the playoff race has them in seller mode, and if they were willing to move Hartman, they would appear to be willing to move anyone. As for the Predators, we know they’re always looking for ways to upgrade their roster.