Two more Stanley Cup Champions were traded last week during the draft. Troy Brouwer left for Washington and Brian Campbell left for Florida. Both trades were sad for the fans, but good for the Blackhawks.
Brian Campbell's contract was way too high for the Blackhawks to keep paying. He is very important to the team, but the Blackhawks couldn't keep dragging his salary along. Troy Brouwer was probably going to be leaving Chicago sometime this summer anyway because he would be asking too much for his new contract. The Hawks were smart to get something out of losing him, instead of nothing. Both players will be missed in Chicago, but having them gone will help the Blackhawks fill out a gritty fourth line and maybe grab a second line center.
The Blackhawks ended up drafting 11 players this year. Three guys stood out. Mark McNeill, Phillip Denault, and Andrew Shaw were among the top picks for the Hawks. McNeill is a center that plays well on both ends of the ice. Denault is a passionate winger, and Shaw is a forceful and aggressive center. All three of these picks will someday become great Blackhawks players or be used in a trade at some point. They all have great talent. McNeill is already praised for playing a pro-style which will be helpful as he transitions to the professional level.
Overall, the Blackhawks had a good couple draft days. They made room for free agent signings with the trades and they drafted a few good players that will help the Blackhawks be good in the future.
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