BLACKHAWKS REACQUIRE LW ANDREW LADD
The Chicago Blackhawks acquired winger Andrew Ladd, defenseman Jay Harrison and forward Matt Fraser from the Winnipeg Jets for forward Marko Dano, a first-round draft pick in 2016 and conditional third-round draft pick in 2018.
What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
In Ladd, the Blackhawks land arguably the top trade-deadline rental forward available this season. As an added bonus, the 'Hawks know Ladd well since he was part of their 2010 Stanley Cup championship squad. He's also a big body who will probably play alongside Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa on Chicago's No. 1 line. That's important because the 'Hawks may have to get past the big, burly LA Kings in order to advance to another Stanley Cup final. Harrison and Fraser will add depth.
What does it give the Winnipeg Jets
For the Jets, this is a very good return for a pending unrestricted free agent. Dano is a talented, skilled and versatile forward who didn't seem to mesh well with Chicago's system. He is a talent, though. He should get a shot with Winnipeg before the end of 2015-16. The first rounder is an important piece to this deal, while the conditional pick will only land in Winnipeg if Chicago wins the Stanley Cup. Dumping two extra contracts (Harrison and Fraser) was also an important part of the deal.
Fantasy impact
Ladd's immediate fantasy value gets a fairly significant spike with this deal, though it will be a short-term move (as Ladd is almost certain to sign elsewhere as a UFA this summer). Dano's fantasy value also jumps up, and he now becomes a more intriguing keeper-league option for the long haul. Neither Harrison nor Fraser are expected to play with Chicago (barring a rash of unforeseen injuries).
Player focus
Winnipeg Jets
a first-round draft pick in 2016
a conditional third-round draft pick in 2018