Report: Oduya won’t return to Blackhawks

Johnny-Oduya;-Dallas-Stars;-Chicago-Blackhawks

The acquisition of Johnny Oduya is a huge part of the Stars' off-season success. (Jeff Roberson/AP)

Johnny Oduya will not be returning to the Chicago Blackhawks, according to several reports.

The 33-year-old UFA defenceman is expected to make his decision any day now, but his agent has said a return to the Stanley Cup champions won’t be happening.

The news of his impending departure isn’t altogether surprising — the cap-strapped Blackhawks just acquired another veteran blueliner in Trevor Daley in the deal that saw Patrick Sharp sent to the Dallas Stars.

According to a report in the Chicago Sun-Times, the Stars and Buffalo Sabres are said to be the top contenders for Oduya’s services.

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