Chicago Blackhawks: 3 New Jersey Devils to trade for at deadline

If the Blackhawks wanted to add a little bit of size, skill, and toughness to their forward group then Wayne Simmonds would be a perfect fit. He is a right-winger that New Jersey uses in a bunch of different roles. He has five goals and 14 assists for 19 points in 48 games played this season. He is clearly not the offensive guru that he once was but he can still provide a little bit in a depth role. He is also a very good net-front presence on the power play if need be.

Simmonds signed a one year deal with New Jersey over the summer so he would be a rental as well. He could literally play right wing on any line but would probably be the best fit on a third line. He can fight and score at different points which could be something the Hawks need. They don’t have a lot of size on the roster so Simmonds could change that if they wanted.

Simmonds also play extremely hard in every single game. He would be a perfect mentor to some of the young players currently in the Chicago locker room. It could be a very solid move for a team looking to add some depth for a run to the postseason. Simmonds would also be a very good presence if they did make it to the playoffs. The game always gets a little bit tighter out there so adding a guy like Simmonds could help the Hawks open it up.

The Hawks could end up being buyers if they continue to play well or they could lose a few in a row and become sellers. Either way, the first few weeks following the break are going to be very telling for how this season is going to go.