Rumor: Chicago Blackhawks Targeting Some Big Name Free Agents

The Chicago Blackhawks surprised many this season with their play considering they were dealt a major blow not having their captain Jonathan Toews for the entire season. While 'Captain Serious' is expected back for training camp, this Blackhawks roster could look a little bit different once he returns. According to Phil Thompson of the Chicago Tribune, the team is expected to be in on several free agents.

Thompson goes on to name current Blackhawk Vinnie Hinostroza as a major priority to bring back after a trade with the Florida Panthers. Hinostroza posted some impressive numbers in his return to Chicago, scoring four times and adding eight assists in 17 games. Chicago is going to have a lot of money to work with as Brent Seabrook and Andrew Shaw account for $11 million of LTIR salary relief.

Two big names to look out for when it comes to contract talks are defensemen Dougie Hamilton and Tyson Barrie, with the latter much more likely to head to the windy city. Both players will have huge contract demands, but if the Blackhawks are willing to go five years plus, they could add Barrie to their mix. Two other names Thompson mentions is Zach Hyman of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Alexander Wennberg of the Florida Panthers. Both serviceable players who can play up and down your lineup and both would give the Blackhawks a huge boost to their forward group.

Look for Chicago to bounce back in a big way in 2021/22 after an under the radar type of season that saw them establish some goaltending and forward depth. Now let's see if they can add to their d-core with a big name free agent.