Blackhawks Rumors: 3 trade candidates to watch in Chicago

Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson was hopeful his team would take a giant step forward in their development this season, but unfortunately, that hasn't been the case at all. Several players aren't meeting expectations, they've had injury troubles all season long, and currently sit with a 9-17-2 record, headed once again for the NHL's draft lottery.

Look for Davidson to continue to sell off some assets before the March 7 trade deadline, as the Blackhawks rebuild won't be finished any time soon. Here's three trade candidates to keep an eye on from the windy city:

Taylor Hall

Hall doesn't want to leave, but he may have no choice, get traded, and then perhaps turn around and re-sign with the Blackhawks this summer. The veteran winger is having a rough season, being benched at times, scratched at others, and while he is playing, hasn't necessarily been lighting up the scoresheet. Hall has six goals and 12 points in 27 games, he's a pending free-agent, carrying a $6 million cap hit and owns a 10-team no-trade clause. Hall's scored 20 goals just once in the last six seasons, it's going to be an interesting trade market to watch before March 7.

Ryan Donato

Donato has been one of the only bright spots in Chicago, recording 10 goals and 15 points in 26 games, good for second on the team in scoring. Davidson mid as well sell high on Donato, who is 28, a pending free agent, and is only making $2 million against the cap this season. Donato has versatility to play all over the lineup, so there's going to be contending teams considering him for their middle six. He's certainly someone Davidson should be shopping before the deadline.

Alec Martinez

Martinez signed just a one-year deal in Chicago and it was likely a trade/rental scenario was coming at some point. The veteran blueliner is on the books for $4 million this season, without trade protection, and if Davidson wants to retain some salary, the Blackhawks GM could fetch a decent return for the Stanley Cup champ. Martinez has posted one goal and four points in 15 games and plays over 20 minutes a night, on both sides of special teams. Even though he's getting up there in age, and slowing down, there will be a trade market for Martinez before March. 

Photo credit: David Banks-Imagn Images