3 players the Chicago Blackhawks could move at the trade deadline

Even though it’s only December, it’s not too early for the Blackhawks management to start discussing the March 7th NHL Trade Deadline.

Like last season, the Hawks have several players who will be unrestricted free agents after this season. Unlike last season, GM Kyle Davidson will be much more active in moving those players for assets to improve the team’s future.

So, who are the top 3 trade candidates on the Hawks, and what could the team get in return for their services?

Taylor Hall

Hall, 33, had a slow start to the season after knee surgery in November of 2023.

He only has mustered six goals and 13 points in 28 games this season, but he has shown flashes he could be a valuable top-nine contributor to a contender.

He has three points in three games since Anders Sorensen took over as interim head coach, and he posted a hat trick against Dallas in late November. 

Hall was solid in the playoffs during his time as a Bruin, tallying 12 points in 14 games. He’s not the player he was two years ago, but if Davidson retains some salary, he could fetch the Hawks a second-round pick and maybe even a prospect if there’s a bidding war for his services.

Ryan Donato

The Massachusetts native has been one of Chicago's most reliable offensive contributors this season. He leads the team in goals with 10 and is on pace to score 48 points this season.

Donato’s $2 million cap hit will entice several suitors with his ability to play up and down the lineup will improve any team’s forward depth.

If he continues to produce as he has, Donato could fetch a second or third-round pick or a quality prospect.

Alec Martinez

Though Martinez is 37, he is a reliable shut-down defenseman who can play in all situations.

More importantly, he is a three-time Cup champ and logged significant minutes during those runs with the Kings and Golden Knights.

Martinez has served as a commendable stopgap on the Hawks’ blueline as the team has allowed Artyom Levshunov and Kevin Korchinski to develop at their own pace, but his experience will be more valuable on a contender come the spring.

Like Hall, if Davidson eats some of his cap hit, Martinez should fetch a quality draft pick and/or prospect at the Deadline.