Blackhawks Aim to End 'Trade Deadline Sellers' Era

Young core hopes to make meaningful playoff push after veteran departures

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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As the Chicago Blackhawks trade away veteran players like Jason Dickinson and Connor Murphy ahead of the NHL trade deadline, the team's young core led by Connor Bedard is determined to turn things around and end the franchise's recent struggles as 'trade deadline sellers'. Captain Nick Foligno acknowledges the emotional toll of seeing longtime teammates depart, but believes the team's promising young talent can propel the Blackhawks back to contention in the near future.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks' flurry of trade deadline moves signals a shift in the franchise's direction, as they look to rebuild around their promising young players like Bedard rather than compete with an aging veteran roster. This transition could be difficult in the short term, but the team is hopeful it will lead to a return to relevance and sustained success down the line.

The details

The Blackhawks have already made a pair of trades this week, sending defenseman Connor Murphy and center Jason Dickinson to the Edmonton Oilers. Captain Nick Foligno acknowledged the 'bittersweet' emotions of seeing longtime teammates depart, but believes the team's young core led by Connor Bedard is ready to step up into leadership roles and help the franchise turn the corner. Bedard, who has already been an alternate captain this season, is eager to learn from the departing veterans and help the Blackhawks avoid being 'trade deadline sellers' in the future.

  • The NHL trade deadline arrives at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2026.
  • The Blackhawks play the Vancouver Canucks at 7:30 p.m. on the same day as the trade deadline.

The players

Nick Foligno

The 38-year-old Blackhawks captain who has been through many trade deadlines in his 20-year NHL career.

Connor Bedard

The Blackhawks' young star forward who has already been an alternate captain this season and is seen as a key part of the team's future.

Jason Dickinson

The former Blackhawks center who was traded to the Edmonton Oilers this week.

Connor Murphy

The former Blackhawks defenseman and alternate captain who was also traded to the Oilers this week.

Alex Vlasic

The 24-year-old defenseman who is now the longest-tenured Blackhawk and is expected to take on a greater leadership role.

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What they’re saying

“For a guy like Murph, it is bittersweet because you love him and what he's meant to this organization and the city (and) how he's come in and been a real great ambassador for the Blackhawks through probably a tough time and tough transition. He's always kept his head up and led the right way, so to see him get an opportunity with a really good team is gratifying for us all.”

— Nick Foligno, Blackhawks Captain (Chicago Tribune)

“It's definitely pretty weird but a great honor and cool opportunity for me to be here with everything that this organization has been through since I've been here. I'm really grateful for my experience here and looking forward to the future.”

— Alex Vlasic, Blackhawks Defenseman (Chicago Tribune)

“Yesterday was really tough. (Dickinson), I've been with the whole time, he's like an older brother to me. It sucks for sure.”

— Connor Bedard (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.