Blackhawks Daily: Cole Guttman Re-Signs; Trade Rumors

Cole Guttman has a chance to build on a terrific run with the IceHogs for another year. The Chicago Blackhawks and Guttman agreed to a one-year extension worth $775k. It’s also a two-way contract.

Guttman was the AHL Player of the Month back in March before injury knocked him out for the season–and to the IceHogs detriment–the playoffs as well. Guttman played well in Rockford and was a catalyst for their strong play later in the season.

Cole Guttman did spend time with the Blackhawks, suiting up for 27 games before heading back to Rockford for the season. With a two-way deal, it provides opportunity to be back up with the Hawks. But if Kyle Davidson plans on upgrading the roster significantly, that will block a few spots that might have otherwise been open.

Speaking of upgrades–the latest on the Patrik Laine potential trade is that new manager Don Waddell is revealing a bit more of what he’s looking for when it comes the eventual split.

Don Waddell on Patrik Laine: "We're still working with his agent. He's still in the program. Once he gets out, we expect any day or sometime soon, teams I've talked about, they wanna talk to him. It's too early to say about money. Our hope is we wouldn't have to hold money." #CBJ

— Mark Scheig (@mark_scheig) June 20, 2024

I looked at a Laine acquisition back in November when there was still some additional value with his numbers. Obviously things have changed some, but Laine could find that scoring touch in the right circumstances. It’s just one of many names to continuously keep an eye on–especially since the Blackhawks are likely to be mentioned with any name that pops up.

Blackhawks In Case You Missed It

Tij Iginla and Zeev Buium are the latest prospects we look at for the 2024 NHL Draft. What about Cole Hutson, who grades out as a late first-round pick but might be more than analysts expect?

Tyler Bertuzzi is an intriguing name that could contribute for the Blackhawks. But does he check the boxes at the right price?

What about Steven Stamkos if he makes it to free agency? Short term, big dollars, and goal scoring with a championship pedigree. It should get a serious look from the Blackhawks

Stanley Cup Final Coverage From Florida Hockey Now

Paul Maurice may not come out and say it, but yeah, the pressure is really on now for the Florida Panthers

Matthew Tkachuk put it all out there before Game 5, giving his guarantee that they’d take the Cup. It didn’t work out as such and he spoke to it after the game

Hockey Now Network

Detroit Hockey Now: Speaking of building blue line out, the Detroit Red Wings played hardball with one of their promising prospects who likely gets a shot at full time status next year.

New Jersey Hockey Now:  A look at five defenseman the New Jersey Devils could take potentially bring in

San Jose Hockey Now:  According to some reports, Barclay Goodrow is pretty miffed with the New York Rangers, especially after being claimed by the San Jose Sharks.