Alex Debrincat was traded to the Senators this off-season, in a deal that some saw was one of the worst moves the Blackhawks have made in recent history. Coming off of one of the best seasons in his career, Debrincat was dealt for three draft picks, while having one year left on his contract that has a $6.4M AAV. In a full 82 games last season, Debrincat scored 41 goals and added 37 assists for 78 points, just under a point per game total. With a struggling, rebuilding Blackhawks team, I would argue that he was the best player on the squad last season other than Patrick Kane.
Scott Powers of the Athletic says that Alex Debrincat didn’t have plans to commit to the Blackhawks long-term, so it seemingly makes sense the Hawks made a move to trade him to get what they could, and not lose him for nothing.
With that being said, I feel like they could’ve gotten more out of any team that wanted him. Yes, his contract was hefty but he’s definitely worth it, and he’s probably going to be making north of $9M AAV on his next contract, wherever that may be. I think he’s going to wait it out, and see how Ottawa plans to move forward, before deciding.
"The Sens offer was by far the best on the table"Scott Powers - The Athletic
Powers also mentions that the fact that Debrincat doesn’t have an extension in place with the Senators just yet, may prove he doesn’t know where he wants to be long-term yet.
If that’s the case, that opens up the very slim possibility of a Blackhawks reunion at the end of the season. Believe me, I’m aware the chances are slim, but I’m always one for positive thinking, especially for a guy who can pot 40 goals a season.