Chicago Blackhawks slammed with scary news on trade market

The Chicago Blackhawks find themselves in a pretty solid position heading into the NHL offseason, as they possess a decent amount of cap space and own expansive draft capital that they could use toward potentially building a contender going forward.

The Blackhawks have missed the playoffs six years in a row, equaling their longest drought since 1952. However, they have shown clear improvement over the last couple of seasons, so they may not be as far off as you may think.

Could that mean established stars may start viewing Chicago as an appealing destination this summer?

It’s what the Blackhawks are hoping for, as they are aiming to make at least one notable free-agent signing, and it would be nice if they could cash in some of their assets in a significant trade, as well (players do have some pull there).

For example, Detroit Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin was recently floated as a potential target for Chicago, but is it realistic? Larkin just answered that question.

Dylan Larkin update is bad news for the Chicago Blackhawks

Larkin has asked the Red Wings for a trade, and he has now provided a list of three preferred destinations: the Vegas Golden Knights, the Minnesota Wild and the Florida Panthers.

What do all three of those teams have in common? They are all contenders. Yes, the Panthers missed the playoffs this year, but they just won two straight Stanley Cups and made it to three in a row. The Blackhawks do not exactly possess that resume in their current form.

So, what does this mean for Chicago?

Well, Larkin does not speak for veterans everywhere, but it could be an indication that some of the top players available this offseason do not exactly view the Blackhawks as a marquee landing spot. Considering the Hawks managed just 72 points this season, it’s not hard to see why.

The hope is that big names see the potential in a young Chicago squad led by Connor Bedard, but perhaps it’s still a bit too soon for the Blackhawks, who have yet to actually prove they are going to be contending anytime soon.

Chicago will surely land someone of significance this offseason, but it might be more difficult than people initially anticipated.

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