Everyone knew that Patrick Sharp was going to be traded at some point this offseason.
The Blackhawks sent Sharp and prospect Stephen Johns to the Dallas Stars for Trevor Daley and Ryan Garbutt. After the Stars retained 50 percent of Garbutt's salary, the Blackhawks were able to add two NHL contracts to the team for $4.2 million, while shipping out Sharp's $5.9 million cap hit, saving them $1.7 million in cap space.
Chicago currently has just under $1 million in cap space. But with just 13 forwards, six defensemen and two goaltenders with NHL contracts, the Blackhawks will need to trade away someone else.
The Blackhawks still have to re-sign Marcus Kruger, who remains a restricted free agent that will quite easily earn a contract well over $1 million.
But who is the most likely trade candidate?
Bryan Bickell's contract stands out as the most obvious choice. His $4 million cap hit doesn't match his production or role with the team, but finding a trade partner may prove to be difficult. Bickell's contract runs for two more seasons, and he finished with just 28 points, his second highest of his career.
Should the Blackhawks free up that $4 million in space, they would be able to re-sign Kruger, and they would have some additional cap flexibility. They will more than likely look to add one or two more players on cheap contracts or entry-level contracts.
(h/t The Hockey News)
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