The Chicago Blackhawks are entering a new era.
Connor Bedard will be an immediate boost to the franchise, and they need to give him a supporting cast.
With essentially every aspect of their roster being barren of depth and talent, the team will have to get creative.
Having tens of million in cap space, however, will make things easier.
Merzlikins Emerges as an Option for the Blackhawks
The Columbus Blue Jackets are in a similar situation to the Blackhawks, barring the soon-to-be generational player joining their team.
They do have
Johnny Gaudreau and
Patrik Laine on the roster, so their aim is to be competitive as soon as possible.
Many are expecting them to attempt to dump a bad contract in the off-season, which would most likely be either
Erik Gudbranson, or
Elvis Merzlikins.
Merzlikins signed a major deal paying him $5.4-million per season over five years with the Blue Jackets, but has underperformed thus far.
Possibility of a Rebound
A change of scenery could be just what he needs, and at 29, he could still have some amazing years as the Blackhawks grow into a contender.
Getting assets along with Merzlikins would only sweeten what could be a very high-reward trade for the Blackhawks.
ADS
RELATED ARTICLES
ADS
