Opening Night Options, 2LW?

Team: 2017-18 Chicago Blackhawks

Initial Creation Date: Jul. 4, 2017

Published: Jul. 4, 2017

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

For simplicity sake, this is operating under the assumption that all veterans/new signings are given first crack at the lineup over younger guys who I see up at some point this year (Hayden, Hino, Dauphin, Debrincat, Pokka, Oesterle)

I think the Hawks absolutely need a move for a 2LW (E. Kane, Neal, JVR)? Maybe they think Sharp can keep it luke warm until Debrincat is ready. But with this roster they have just under 3.9 million for that 23rd spot once Hossa is put on LTIR. Thoughts on who is expendable and value of possible targets?

Assuming Debrincat, Schmaltz and Hartman are off limits, I would imagine Hayden, Hino, Knott or Fortin would be desired players in addition to early round draft picks (considering money would need to be retained by trading partner).

I used basic LTIR for this simply to show how much room they would have for an addition. If any of the discussed moves were to happen, the Hawks would hypothetically make it before the season, and then place Hossa on LTIR, meaning they would have little to no room for in season additions. The other option is staying under the cap to begin the season, and then place Hossa on LTIR after opening night to re gain that cap space and create in season flexibility. However, I would view it extremely unlikely that you could acquire a solid 2LW after the season begins, and waiting until teams fall out of contention near the deadline seems scary to me with the moves Dallas has made, Winnipeg being a year older/better, Minnesota and St. Louis being dangerous as always, and Nashville looking to prove even more this year. Waiting too long could back fire