Trading Niklas Hjalmarsson Makes Sense For Blackhawks

Flickr Photo via BridgetDS It’s safe to say Stan Bowman and Blackhawk fans alike are resting at least a little easier this summer. After last year’s salary dump bonanza, which saw multiple talents and fan favorites part ways with Chicago, many probably feel that no one on the roster is safe. But Blackhawks fans have had their fears quelled a bit, with Chicago expected to add more impact talent, rather than dump it, thanks to a bit more financial flexibilities this offseason. For the most part, it looks like the guys who are already locked up and don’t hold any type of free agent status, be it unrestricted or restricted, are safe. But there still remain just a few that could wind up as trade chips this offseason. One of those names is Niklas Hjalmarsson, the Hawks’ 23-year-old defenseman from Sweden. The 2010-11 campaign was his second full season with the Blackhawks, in which he appeared in 80 games. Those other two weren’t missed due to injury, but a s...