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Jake McCabe's Market is Growing as Deadline Looms

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Ron Luce | Last updated 2/11/23

Jake McCabe might become Kyle Davidson's most popular trade chip for the Blackhawks as the March 3 deadline approaches.

It is no secret that the Chicago Blackhawks are the most fascinating team entering the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline on March 3. Not only are franchise pillars and cornerstones Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews potentially on the move, other significant pieces will also likely be dealt. Names such as Sam Lafferty, Max Domi, and Andreas Athanasiou have been brought up in trade talks. However, it appears one name in particular is drawing a lot of interest. Jake McCabe appears to be Kyle Davidson's most lucrative trade chip at the moment.

As indicated by NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun, the Blackhawks are asking for quite the return in exchange for McCabe. Rather than having an expiring contract as most rental trade deadline candidates possess, McCabe has two more seasons after this one on his contract at a respectable $4 million AAV. That's the reason the Hawks are looking for a first-round pick in return.

However, the Blackhawks can weaponize their cap space yet again, as Davidson indicated he would before the season started, and retain half of McCabe's salary for the next two seasons, making him the best bargain on the market for a contending team.

That in mind, LeBrun indicates that the price goes up if the Blackhawks are to help a team from a dollars and cents perspective. McCabe provides a sound defenseman with some offensive ability, and contenders in need of that could be getting the best deal available for multiple seasons. That said, what would be the additional ask for retaining salary if a possible trade already includes a first-round pick?

Thoughtfully, a package including a first-round pick, mid- to high-tier prospect, and another lower draft pick could be the ask from the Hawks if they retain on McCabe's salary. If the Hawks want to get really creative, a third team could help further reduce that cost if they are willing to hold some additional money back, for a price of course.

Nonetheless, while speculation will continue leading up to the deadline, it is very clear that the Blackhawks have a meaningful trade chip in the form of McCabe. If they get their ask at the deadline, Kane and Toews aside, McCabe will help the Blackhawks possibly accelerate the rebuild with a lucrative return at this coming deadline.