David Pagnotta: The Blackhawks Are Shopping the 4th Pick and It's a Sign of Desperation
The 2026 NHL offseason is shaping up to be absolute chaos, and the Chicago Blackhawks are right in the middle of it. According to insider David Pagnotta, Chicago is ready to move that 4th overall pick, which tells you everything you need to know about where this team stands heading into the summer.
The Knies Question and What It Means for Chicago
Pagnotta dropped Matthew Knies's name as a potential target, and yeah, he's the exact type of player the Blackhawks need. He's got the style, the age, and the contract situation works. But here's the thing: is he really worth the 4th pick? The problem is massive uncertainty. If Stenberg somehow slips because San Jose decides to go defenseman at 2, then Chicago might land their top 6 winger without trading up. But Knies probably isn't going to be as good as Stenberg anyway. And honestly, would Toronto even move him if they're keeping Matthews and Nylander? Probably not.
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The lottery has completely handcuffed the Blackhawks. They should've been at 2 overall, but instead they're at 4. That would've made everything straightforward. Now they're forced to either sit and pray Stenberg falls or get creative with trades. Pagnotta suggests a package like Korch, the 4th pick, and the 34th overall could entice San Jose to move back two spots so Chicago can grab Stenberg. In that scenario, the Sharks get a young defenseman, their choice at 4, and a high second rounder just for sliding back. It's worth considering.
Look at the current lineup: Bedard on the left, Nazar and Frondell on the right, Kantserov below them. Even if Frondell has a Calder-worthy year, Kantserov steps in as productive, and Bedard puts up 100 points with growth on the backend, it's not enough. The Blackhawks have obvious holes. This offseason has to be the one where they nail it. The front office can't afford another swing and miss.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.