Chicago Blackhawks: 32-23-6, 70 pts, 10th in West, 3rd in Central
Status: ??
The defending Cup champs have been enigmatic all season long, and their playoff chances have suffered because of it. Not sure what or how they would add to a roster already laden with high levels of talent and salaries, but the current roster hasn’t been enough so far this season, and there’s no reason to expect that to change in the playoffs. Just goes to show you how quickly your window of opportunity can close in today’s NHL.
Columbus Blue Jackets: 31-24-6, 68 pts, 12th in West, 4th in Central
Status: Sellers
With the playoffs looking out of reach again for the Blue Jackets, they could hear more than a few offers tomorrow. With a number of capable defensemen on the roster, and very few good puck movers, they would probably like to make some changes to their blueline. Fedor Tyutin and Jan Hejda were rumored to be available, as was goalie Steve Mason. Gotta feel for superstar Rick Nash, who just can’t seem to get any real help in Ohio.
Detroit Red Wings: 38-18-6, 82 pts, 2nd in West, 1st in Central
Status: Passive Buyers
The Wings don’t have a strong history of making blockbuster deals on deadline day, and I wouldn’t expect this year to be any different. They’ve had injury trouble this season, but have fought through it in typical Red Wing fashion and have managed to stay at the top of their division and the tough Western Conference regardless. The only thing they might be interested in adding is a veteran goalie in case Jimmy Howard were to struggle in the playoffs. Don’t count on anything crazy from Ken Holland tomorrow, though.
Nashville Predators: 32-23-8, 72 pts, 8th in West, 2nd in Central
Status: Passive Buyers
The Predators don’t really have any glaring needs, although they could use some additional depth up front. The addition of Mike Fisher is probably about as significant a move that a cash-strapped team like Nashville can make mid-season, although it was rumored that veteran winger JP Dumont could be on his way out of town. GM David Poile denied these rumors today, but that doesn’t make them any less intriguing, does it?
