Wednesday night, when the Blackhawks face off against the Buffalo Sabres, Hawk fans may get a glimpse of a couple of guys that could be on Stan Bowman's trade radar.
The Sabres are 19-21-5 this season, including a 2-6-2 run in their last ten games. Barring some sort of explosion of wins, they'll be looking to deal a few players and pick up a few prospects at the trade deadline.
The biggest name is center Derek Roy. Roy is not a huge player, but would be considered an elite #2 center. He's a tireless worker who's scored 30+ goals in his career. Putting him on a line with Marian Hossa and (eventually) Patrick Sharp would be a great thing for him. Roy has been one of the biggest offensive threats in Buffalo. Here, he'd be more of a complimentary piece. With better line mates, his production will certainly go up. Roy's cap hit is $4,000,000 and is signed through next season.
The next player is Paul Gaustad. While offense is not his forte, playing pissed off hockey is. He's the physical forward the Hawks have been seeking. He can play both center or wing, and is more than willing to drop the gloves. He has 18 points and 118 PIMS this season. His cap hit off $2,300,000 expires after this season, when he will become an unrestricted free agent.
Also, be sure to keep an eye on defenseman Robyn Regehr. The 31 year old veteran spent all of his career, until this season, with the Calgary Flames. He is a very physical and aggressive player, who has a decent point shot. The knock on his would be his puckhandling, but the Hawks have more than enough d-men who can move the puck. Regehr offers just what the Hawks need on the blue line. Physicality and intimidation.
Any or all of these Sabres would fill needs for the Blackhawks. Derek Roy is the best candidate, but will also take the biggest package to obtain. Regardless, here's your incentive to watch the boring and bad Sabres tonight.
Filed under: Blackhawks, Chicago Blackhawks, danny mac show, jay zawaski, NHL, sports, stan bowman
Tags: buffalo sabres
