Multiple news pieces coming from the Chicago Blackhawks organization today! Vinnie Hinostroza was traded back to the Blackhawks, and the Florida Panthers received AHL forward Brad Morrison. In addition, the Blackhawks announced forward Bradon Hagel will not practice today due to COVID-19 protocol.
Vinnie Hinostroza Traded Back to Blackhawks; Hagel on COVID List
Hinostroza has not played many games for the Panthers this year. With such a good team, there aren’t enough roster spots for him. In nine games with the Panthers, Hinostroza has not registered a point. He is a -2 and averaged about nine minutes of ice time per game. His Corsi is a 42.6% with a miserable relative Corsi of -14.7. In his six year NHL career, Hinostroza has played 255 games, scored 34 times and assisted on 66 goals for 100 points. On Florida, he is not needed, as they have skilled centres on all four lines.
Benefits for the Blackhawks
The Blackhawks need depth forwards, especially centres, with Jonathan Toews out with an undisclosed illness. Even with Kirby Dach returning to the lineup, the Ryan Carpenter is not the ideal centreman for the fourth line. As the trade deadline approaches, having Hinostroza allows the Hawks to move Carl Soderberg, the rental centreman to fill the bottom lines. This would allow them to free up cap space and get another valuable player or picks in return. Even though Hinostroza is not the most impactful player, having him back in the red sweater will ensure the Hawks have four competent centres come playoffs.
As April 12th approaches, look for the Blackhawks to make moves for depth forwards. In such a tight race with the Nashville Predators and the Columbus Blue Jackets for the fourth playoff spot, the Hawks will need a boost. While their top two lines are perfect, the offence falls off as one goes down the depth chart.
Main Photo:
Illinois’ own returns home!
Forward Vinnie Hinostroza has been acquired in exchange for forward Brad Morrison. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/uyGSlzKw6r
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 2, 2021
