The Chicago Blackhawks are expected to take a significant step forward this coming season. Chicago has not made the playoffs since 2020 and has regularly been one of the worst teams in the league since drafting Connor Bedard. The superstar center, however, is now finally getting some help. General manager Kyle Davidson has brought in Bowen Byram and Patrick Kane this summer.
The additions, as well as a massive five-year, $75 million ($15 million AAV) extension for Bedard, push the Blackhawks to the spending limit. According to PuckPedia.com, Chicago has just $2.8 million in projected cap space. Despite this, Davidson has a few aces up his sleeve. Thanks to previous trades, the Blackhawks have three first-round draft picks in 2027.
The Athletic’s Scott Powers believes that Davidson will use two of these selections to land impactful players this winter. This, of course, hinges on the Chicago Blackhawks being in range of a potential playoff spot in 2027. “There are a lot of different ways to use those draft picks, but I’d be surprised if the Blackhawks don’t trade at least two of them to help improve their NHL roster,” writes Powers.
Powers also suggests a way for Chicago to help free up necessary cap space if they need it. According to the writer, the Blackhawks can opt to place Ryan Ellis on long-term injured reserve to use his $6.25 million salary elsewhere. Davidson previously acquired the defenseman from the San Jose Sharks in January. The veteran, however, has not played in the NHL since 2021.
Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson has Options in Trade Market
GettyThe 2026-27 season will be extremely important for the Chicago Blackhawks and Kyle Davidson.
Assuming the Chicago Blackhawks opt to swap two first-round draft picks, Davidson can go in several different directions. The team’s top exec may choose to target a rental ahead of the trade deadline. This would essentially help tell the loyal fanbase that the club is serious about winning.
There could be several quality players available in this scenario. The forward market for rentals, specifically, may be very attractive come February. Star veterans such as Mark Stone, Alex DeBrincat, Ryan O’Reilly, and Drake Batherson are all set to become unrestricted free agents next summer.
Nevertheless, targeting a rental is a risky option for the Chicago Blackhawks. The club finished 31st out of 32 NHL teams this past season. While they should improve, it seems unlikely that Chicago will truly compete for a Stanley Cup trophy this upcoming campaign. Because of this, Davidson should look to acquire players who can help his team in 2027 and beyond.
Chicago Hopeful to Keep Third 2027 First-Round Pick
A solid start to the 2026-27 season will be crucial for Davidson and the Chicago Blackhawks. With Bedard locked down for the next five years, the club has to start making annual playoff pushes. The addition of Kane should certainly help ease the offensive burden on the superstar center. The future Hall of Famer, now 37, had 57 points in 67 games with the Detroit Red Wings last year.
Along with rooting for their beloved club, Blackhawks fans should also hope the Edmonton Oilers continue to play well in the Western Conference. Due to a stipulation in a previous trade, if Edmonton’s 2027 first-round pick, which Chicago currently owns, is inside the top 12, the Oilers can keep the selection and send their 2028 first-round pick to the Blackhawks instead.
Blackhawks Expected to Trade Multiple Draft Picks to Land Star