6 Blackhawks Players Who Are Currently on the Hot Seat

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CHICAGO, IL – APRIL 01: Chicago Blackhawks center Artem Anisimov (15) controls the puck during a game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Chicago Blackhawks on April 1, 2019, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Artem Anisimov

After being acquired in 2015 as part of the first Brandon Saad trade, Artem Anisimov got off to a good start. During his first two seasons in Chicago, Anisimov posted consecutive 40+ point seasons — 42 points in 2015-16 and 45 points in 2016-17.

It was at this point that he looked to be a steady 2nd line center. He was the pivot in one of the most dominant lines in the NHL at the time, Panarin-Anisimov-Kane.

Anisimov’s newly found success wouldn’t last too long though. His linemate, Artemi Panarin, would be traded to the Blue Jackets in exchange for Brandon Saad after the 2017 Blackhawks playoff implosion.

Since Panarin was traded in 2017, Artem Anisimov has struggled to find a steady, productive role. He has bounced between the second, third, and fourth lines and even played on the wing a few times.

This seemingly neverending struggle may have Anisimov shipped to another team this offseason. He was reportedly being shopped around the trade deadline back in February, but to no avail.

Now that his modified no-trade clause will fall off during the 2019-20 season, the Blackhawks could be motivated to part ways with Artem Anisimov. Dylan Strome’s emergence has made Anisimov much more expendable.

Anisimov is owed $4.55 mil AAV through the 2020-21 season. I’m not expecting a huge return for Anisimov unless it’s some type of package deal. A mid-round pick and a prospect would likely be the return at this point.