Seth Jones Trade Rumors: Blackhawks Defenceman Open to Move

Image credits: AP Photo/George Walker IV

The Chicago Blackhawks are facing a potential shake-up in their lineup as defenceman Seth Jones has expressed his desire to be traded to a more competitive team. Jones, who signed an eight-year, $76-million contract with the Blackhawks in 2021, has been with the team for four seasons and has seen the team undergo a significant rebuild. Despite his commitment to the team, Jones has made it clear that he wants to play for a team that has a chance to win a Stanley Cup.

According to reports, Jones and his agent, Pat Brisson, have been discussing the possibility of a trade with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson. While Jones has not formally requested a trade, he has made it clear that he is open to moving on to a contender. The 30-year-old defenceman has a full no-movement clause, which gives him control over potential trade destinations. Jones' contract, which carries a $9.5 million cap hit, may be a hurdle in trade talks, but it is not impossible to move. The Blackhawks may need to retain part of his salary to facilitate a trade.

Jones' teammates, including captain Nick Foligno, have expressed support for the defenceman's decision. Foligno stated that Jones' desire to win a Stanley Cup is understandable and that it will not affect his play on the ice. Interim coach Anders Sorensen also expressed confidence that Jones will continue to perform well despite the trade rumors. The NHL trade deadline is approaching on March 7, and it remains to be seen whether the Blackhawks will be able to trade Jones to a contender. Potential trade destinations for Jones include the Winnipeg Jets, Carolina Hurricanes, and Columbus Blue Jackets.

The situation with Jones is just one of several trade rumors circulating around the NHL. Other teams, such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Montreal Canadiens, are also expected to be active in trade talks. The Maple Leafs may be looking to address their roster needs, while the Avalanche may be seeking to add depth to their lineup. The Canadiens, meanwhile, may be looking to sell off assets after a disappointing season. Some potential trade targets include:

• Jonas Siegel's suggestion that the Maple Leafs should throw caution to the wind and address their roster needs
• Adam Proteau's belief that the Avalanche could be buyers for depth at the trade deadline
• Stu Cowan's expectation that the Canadiens will be sellers at the trade deadline

The trade deadline is always a time of uncertainty and excitement in the NHL, and this year is no exception. With several high-profile players potentially on the move, fans will be eagerly watching to see how the landscape of the league changes in the coming weeks. As the deadline approaches, teams will be looking to make moves to strengthen their lineups and make a push for the playoffs. The situation with Jones and the Blackhawks is just one of many storylines that will be unfolding in the lead-up to the trade deadline.