After saying all season there was no way he would let restricted free agent Brandon Saad go, Chicago Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman traded the rising star to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday The Hawks sent Saad, fellow forward Alex Broadhurst and defenseman Michael Paliotta to the Blue Jackets in exchange for forwards Artem Anisimov, Marko Dano, Jeremy Morin and Corey Tropp and a fourth-round selection in the 2016 NHL Draft. ckuc@tribpub.com
That Dano is a pain in the ass to play against. He's going to be a real good player. Put him with Toews or Kane, I think he will flourish. Anisimov is a solid third line option. Like Saad but I think Dano is really talented. He was impressive when he played against the Rangers. Right now Saad is the best player in the deal. However, Saad was playing with 2 great players. I think Dano is a guy that is a good bet to be a steal in fantasy pools next year. This also tells me they plan on giving a kid the call up.
Columbus will have major cap problems soon unless they find a taker for Hartnell or Jack Johnson. Johnson sucks.
I am not shocked by this move. It is an example that salary cap moves hockey players. What surprises me it's Columbus and their pitch for a playoff position. They are on the cusp. But I like this trade more for the Hawks....who keep their core and add better than adequate periphery players....anyone say 'dynasty'.
