Chicago Blackhawks’ 2016 Trades And Signings In Review

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Dec 20, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Marcus Kruger (16) skates with the puck during a penalty shot against the Ottawa Senators during the third period at the United Center. Ottawa defeats Chicago 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

March 8th, 2016: Chicago Blackhawks sign Marcus Kruger to a three-year contract for $9.25 million.

Initial Reaction: Kruger got the deal that Bowman promised him. Kruger took a 1-year deal last year so the Hawks could get under the cap.

Current Assessment: The amount of money given to Kruger was too high for a third-/fourth-line guy. Kruger will be traded in the offseason along with a younger player to help the Blackhawks stay under the salary cap.

Grade: C

March 14th, 2016: Chicago Blackhawks re-sign Viktor Svedberg to a two-year deal for $750,000 per year.

Initial Reaction: Svedberg is another depth signing. He is a capable defenseman who is good in short stints in the NHL. He will be in the AHL for the time being.

Current Assessment: Svedberg is currently in the AHL. He has appeared in 31 games with 2 goals and 7 assists.

Grade: C

March 31st, 2016: Chicago Blackhawks sign Robin Norell to three-year contract.

Initial Reaction: Norell is a young Swedish defender who was the fourth-round pick of the Blackhawks in 2011. He had played with Djurgardens IF for two seasons before joining the Rockford IceHogs.

Current Assessment: Norell is aiming for a spot on the NHL roster next season. He has 1 goal and 2 assists in 25 games with the IceHogs. This season is one of adjustment to the North American way of playing hockey for Norell.

Grade: C