3 Chicago Blackhawks trade candidates heading into 2025

There's a new bench boss in Chicago, and some new life into the Blackhawks. Anders Sorensen has given the Blackhawks a new voice, and fresh perspective on where the team can go, and now it's up to GM Kyle Davidson to continue putting building blocks in place for success.

The Blackhawks are 12-21-2 on the year, and are once again headed for the NHL Draft Lottery. Davidson's tasked with making a few moves before the March 7 trade deadline to build around Connor Bedard and ensure losing doesn't become the norm moving forward in the windy city. Here's three Blackhawks who are likely traded in early 2025:

Taylor Hall

Easy target. Hall is a pending UFA who does want to stick around Chicago, but Davidson may have other ideas. Hall has struggled this season, and even was made a healthy scratch by former coach Luke Richardson. Through 34 games, Hall has scored seven times, while adding 11 assists for 18 points. He's making $6 million this season and owns a 10-team no-trade clause. Recently, hockey insider Pierre LeBrun mentioned Hall as a fit for Utah HC:

Hall has a modified no-trade clause, so his agent, Darren Ferris, could have a role in helping the Hawks find a suitor. So hear me out here: Utah HC as a buyer! This is only realistic in a world in which Utah stays in the race in the second half. They could use a little more offense. Hall has some brand-name cache that would be fun to bring into the NHL’s newest market, and Utah has plenty of cap room, plus a strong desire to stay in the playoff chase.

Ryan Donato

Donato is having a strong season, scoring 11 goals and 20 points through his first 33 games. He's a pending UFA, on the books for $2 million this season, and doesn't hold any trade protection. Teams like the Minnesota Wild or Colorado Avalanche could be involved here as they are both looking for secondary scoring.

Pat Maroon

The veteran role player knows how to win in the playoffs, and while he's been a great influence on the young Blackhawks, Maroon is likely on the move before March 7. So far this season, he's recorded one goal and eight points in 32 games, seeing 11:41 of ice-time per game, including a spot on the second power-play unit. Maroon will be on the radar of several contending teams, and is essentially a lock to be traded.