NHL Insider reveals the asking price from the Hawks for Alex DeBrincat
Scoring goals in the National Hockey League is the hardest thing to do. That's why, when a multi-time 40-goal scorer becomes available, the asking price is definitely going to be lofty.
It is well known that the Chicago Blackhawks are embarking upon a "scorched Earth" type rebuild. They have plenty of quality assets available via trade, but perhaps none are more intriguing than Alex DeBrincat.
A recent report had suggested that the Hawks could be looking for a haul not unlike what they received for winger Brandon Hagel from the Tampa Bay Lightning at the dealine - two first round picks and two young players. However, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman revealed on Monday that the package they're looking for in exchange for DeBrincat is a younger player (presumably of similar skill level), a 1st round pick and a top prospect.
It would appear to be less than the asking price for Hagel upon first glance, but really, it's much higher. Both Boris Katchouk and Taylor Raddysh are former 2nd rounders who haven't amounted to much at the NHL level yet and are both 24 years of age. The two first round picks that the Hawks received in the deal for Hagel are lottery protected and are likely to be very low first round picks.
In DeBrincat's case, using the Leafs as an example, the pieces that the Hawks would be getting back would equate to something like Rasmus Sandin, Matthew Knies and an unprotected 1st round pick. Certainly a lofty ask, but the Hawks will get something similar and possibly more from another team - especially if a bidding war ensues.
I would imagine a team like the Detroit Red Wings could have an interested in a player like DeBrincat. The Wings are on their upswing and could use a player of DeBrincat's skill level to help push them to the next level. The fact that he's just 24 years old would check out as well, as he would fit into Detroit's potential contention window.
The Wings have 10 picks in this year's draft and own all of their next 3 first round picks. They also have a boat load of intriguing prospects to work with. Another team who may be interested if the Hawks insist on moving DeBrincat to the Eastern Conference could be the Ottawa Senators. Not unlike the Wings, the Senators have 11 picks in this year's draft, a slew of dynamic prospects at all positions and own their next 3 first rounders. The Devils are also team with known interest who are in a similar position who may be able to offer the best package.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 20 | 126 ANSWERS NHL Insider reveals the asking price from the Hawks for Alex DeBrincat Will the Hawks deal DeBrincat this summer? | ||
| No | 44 | 34.9 % |
| Yes | 62 | 49.2 % |
| They'll deal him closer to the deadline | 20 | 15.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
