There’s still plenty of time for action prior to Monday’s NHL trade deadline, but in the weekend leading up to the transaction freeze, there was a clear winner. The Chicago Blackhawks, winners of three of the last six Stanley Cups, loaded up and established themselves as the favourites to win again.
Some have quailed at the cost. Others may debate the necessity. Both are mistaken.
The entire purpose of asset management is to help teams win championships by ensuring effective use of available resources. With a Stanley Cup within reach, now is not the time to balk at moving a late first-round pick who might pay off in five years in exchange for someone who will immediately help in a major way.
Nor should there be any question as to the necessity. The league’s salary cap forced the ‘Hawks to pare down their roster in the offseason. Despite an impressive campaign, this is not a flawless team; rather, it’s a club that succeeded despite its flaws. General manager Stan Bowman went a long way toward correcting many of them with a strong 48 hours.
Chicago paid a heavy price in ...
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Article written by Jonathan Willis
Blackhawks Affirming Cup-Favourite Status with All the Right Deadline Moves
February 27th, 2016 by Jonathan Willis Leave a reply »
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