With Patrick Kane sidelined for the next 12 weeks, it would seem unthinkable that the Chicago Blackhawks would have interest in moving one of their top forwards before the March 2 trade deadline. However, that may not be the case.
According to a report from Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune, the Blackhawks and Washington Capitals have had trade discussions involving forward Patrick Sharp.
Sharp’s productivity has declined this season. He has just 10 goals through Chicago’s first 48 games with a minus-13 rating. Sharp recorded 34 goals with a plus-13 rating in 82 games last season.
The 33-year-old signed a five-year contract extension worth $29.5 million in August of 2011. His contract carries an annual salary cap hit of 5.9 million until he becomes an unrestricted free agent following the 2016-17 season.
The Blackhawks made a deal earlier on Friday, acquiring veteran defenceman Kimmo Timonen from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for two draft picks.
Entering Friday, Chicago had a 37-20-5 record and is in third place in the Central Division.
