The Chicago Blackhawks are unlikely to win more games than they lose in 2025-26, but they are hoping to see progress from certain players. They’d also like to be more competitive in games, even if they ultimately lose.
In order to do that, they may consider taking from areas of strength in order to address areas of weakness. That may involve making a trade or two before the off-season is over.
Chicago has multiple players who stick out as candidates to be moved for help. Every trade chip has a different reason for being on the block, but they all have value on the market if a team were to take that type of risk.
These are the three who stick out as good players who can bring something back to Chicago in a deal:
Kevin Korchinski
Kevin Korchinski is a highly skilled offensive defenseman who was a top-ten draft pick. His development has mostly taken place outside of the NHL since his rookie year ended, and he hasn’t quite forced his way back into the lineup with certainty.
The rise of other top prospects at the position within the organization makes him a great trade chip. Plenty of teams would be willing to take the chance on his ceiling. If they can get a developing forward, one who may also be a project, in return, Kyle Davidson may consider it.
Lukas Reichel
It’s starting to look pretty obvious that Lukas Reichel won’t ever be a high-end offensive producer in the NHL. However, he does have the ability to play a bottom-six center role. He has to accept and execute that, which may be better off for another team. A change of scenery does players justice sometimes.
As a part of a trade package for help in other areas, he is young enough to be enticing to another team that may be towards the end of a rebuild and needs depth up front.
Connor Murphy
Connor Murphy is the eldest defenseman on the team. The second-oldest isn’t even within a few years of him. The youth movement on the roster that took place in 2025-26 makes him the leader.
With that said, veteran teams looking for a number four to help them in their quest to win the Stanley Cup may overpay for a guy like Murphy. If he can land Chicago another prospect or high-end draft pick, they would not hesitate to at least consider the option.
All three of these men are good players who still have many more years in the NHL. It just might not be with the Chicago Blackhawks for different reasons.
