Blackhawks Eyeing Evan Rodrigues in Possible Trade?

Over the last four seasons, Rodrigues has eclipsed 30 points in every season, with three of those four seasons ending with 15 or more goals. He's an incredible middle-six forward on a contending team, and would likely be a top-six player if he ended up in Chicago. He has two years remaining on his current deal at $3 million average annual value. 

For a trade like this to make sense, the Blackhawks would likely be sending back an NHL roster player rather than prospects and draft picks, unless Florida is exclusively looking for salary cap relief with a possible move. Regardless, this deal has to make sense for Chicago, which could mean moving on from someone like Jason Dickinson or Ilya Mikheyev, to swing it. 

Realistically, there's reason to believe the Blackhawks checked in, but aren't overly serious about acquiring Rodrigues. Taking on his contract could have been enough for Kyle Davidson to engage in a brainstorming session and figure out if there was a trade present that made too much sense. Maybe a larger deal will come to fruition if Rodrigues arrives in Chicago, but who knows?

Davidson should always take due diligence on players like Rodrigues, especially when a team like the Panthers are in a tough position. At this moment in time, the fit feels off and the validity of Pagnotta's report can certainly be questioned. Regardless, hearing the Blackhawks pop up in trade target talks shows they may not be 100% settled on their roster for the 2025-26 season and could make for some mid-summer fun for hockey fans in the Windy City.