The Chicago Blackhawks' rebuild has gone well in terms of good fortune over the past few years. They landed the #1 overall pick in 2023, which handed them Connor Bedard. Last year, they secured the #2 overall pick, giving them Artyom Levshunov. Together with Ryan Donato, Frank Nazar, and Alex Vlasic, it feels like they have a strong young core coming together. The problem is that this hasn't translated into winning yet. They still need a co-star to pair with Bedard, more help on defense, and a legitimate option at head coach.
By the sound of things, it appears GM Kyle Davidson might be aiming to solve those first two problems in one fell swoop. According to Geoff Hannah of NHL Trade Rumors, the Blackhawks are talking about a blockbuster trade involving the #3 overall pick with the Buffalo Sabers.
The latest trade proposal making rounds in NHL insider circles could be a game-changer for both clubs:
Chicago Blackhawks receive: Bowen Byram, JJ Peterka, 2025 first-round pick (9th overall)
Buffalo Sabres receive: Lukas Reichel, Nolan Allan, Laurent Brossoit, 2025 first-round pick (3rd overall)
The true prize of that deal is Peterka. The 23-year-old right winger is coming off an All-Star-caliber season for the Sabres, scoring 27 goals with 41 assists. It looks like he's on the cusp of stardom. Putting him alongside Bedard could unlock the Blackhawks' offense like never before.
The Chicago Blackhawks would be ready to win if this happens.
Peterka alone would be a tremendous get. However, one must not overlook Byram. He is a sturdy, young defender with 31 assists this past season. He also brings something else critical to the table: championship experience. He was with the Colorado Avalanche when they won the Stanley Cup in 2022. This doesn't even mention they're still getting the 9th overall pick in the 1st round, allowing them to add another promising young talent. Time will tell if this rumor blossoms into reality. The NHL draft is June 27th. The Chicago Blackhawks go on the clock around a half hour into the action. That is how long the two teams have to work something out. This team will be much tougher going into 2025-2026 if it goes through.
