Blackhawks fans, along with management and ownership, have enjoyed watching Connor Bedard immerse himself in the Blackhawks organization and its fan base. It's been a whirlwind past few months for the 18-year-old budding superstar, and with the ceiling through the stratosphere, the endless possibilities continue.
However, the Blackhawks are still in full rebuild mode and will be looking to sell off more of their talent this year at the trade deadline in March 2024 to continue recouping draft picks and prospects as the team reshapes its core.
The first team is his former team, the Tampa Bay Lightning. Johnson spent nine seasons with the organization after being signed as an undrafted player. He managed to win a Stanley Cup with Tampa and would bring pedigree to other teams looking for depth at center. The 33-year-old has played 683 career games, scored 180 goals with 226 assists for 406 points, and has a +51 rating.
The Arizona Coyotes are also on the list as the organization continues to acquire talent along with drafting their numerous picks. A player of Johnson's calibre would shore up the center position, especially on the second or third line, and give their second power-play unit a better chance at success.
He is currently completing a seven-year, $35 million contract, and his current cap hit is $5 million. The Blackhawks would likely retain a portion of his salary to make a trade workable.
