Joined: Apr. 2017
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What Chicago wanted and the market was willing to pay are two separate things. I believe Chicago, based on everything I read, stood it's ground and wanted more then just a 2nd round pick...i'm guessing a prospect as well (be it a okay prospect/reclamation project or a good prospect). That said, since January 1st, strome is playing at over a point per game rate now that he's being correctly utilized as a top 6 center and has a standout line driving winger on his flank (Kane or Cat or both). Why would Chicago want to trade a young center then? I believe a lot of it has to do with his arbitration rights. While Strome's qualifying offer of $3.6M per year is easily manageable and a bargain at that, the problem is if he goes to arbitration, based on stats, he could be awarded in the $5M+ dollar to $7M range which would be concerning given his lack of defensive play (his weak spot, although better in the last few months) that most teams I would guess would not want him for $5M+. It's the arbitration rights that makes him a risky acquisition for all teams.
I think the hawks at this point likely try to sign him for $4M'ish for 2 to 3 years and if unsuccessful he will go to free agency. If successful, they can always move him at the TDL next year especially if he continues to put up a point per game.
That all said, Strome is not a winger and no team should acquire him for that intended purpose. He has proven time and time again, he is ineffective on the wing.