The Chicago Blackhawks have made a trade. Longtime defenseman Duncan Keith will go to the Edmonton Oilers for Caleb Jones and a third-round pick. While it’s been speculated for weeks that the team would trade Keith, our questions are finally answered as he goes to Edmonton. Furthermore, it was announced that the Blackhawks will not retain any of Keith’s $5.538M. According to CapFriendly, Jones’ average annual value (AAV) is only $850K compared to Keith’s 5.538M over the next two seasons. Also, the 2021/22 season is the last year of Jones’ current deal.
Deal appears to be done: Duncan Keith to Edmonton for Caleb Jones and a third-round pick. No salary retention. #Blackhawks— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) July 12, 2021
What Does It Mean for the Blackhawks?
Essentially, the Chicago Blackhawks make room in the cap to possibly pursue Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman, Seth Jones, who happens to be Caleb’s brother. Elliott Friedman on his podcast “31 Thoughts” stated back on the 3rd of July that Seth has an interest in the Blackhawks. In addition, he has heard that Seth would love to team up with his brother Caleb. Meanwhile, this trade to move Keith could help the Blackhawks try to get Seth from the Blue Jackets. Regardless, it would have to be a sign-and-trade since Seth is in the last year of his deal. His AAV is at $5.4M for the 2021/22 season.
Chicago is a very real destination for Seth Jones; can't hurt to have brother Caleb on the roster— Ryan Kennedy (@THNRyanKennedy) July 12, 2021
Though, to make the deal possible, the Blackhawks would need a verbal commitment from Seth Jones that he will stay in Chicago long-term. Teams are not willing to trade assets for a possible one-year rental. The Blackhawks could have a solid chance to get Seth Jones since the team does have Caleb now. But, what they send back also complicates things. Nonetheless, getting a defenseman like Caleb could make things interesting for a blue line that is already young. Unfortunately, losing a veteran presence in Keith could be a setback as well.
Duncan Keith will Forever be a Blackhawks Legend
Duncan Keith will be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame when it is all said and done. While this is fresh, Blackhawks fans will always remember Keith as part of the core that brought three Stanley Cups to Chicago. His resume will speak for itself when it comes to getting his number retired by the Blackhawks.
Duncan Keith's run with the #Blackhawks may never be duplicated.
– 2nd-most games played in team history
– 2nd-most points by a defenseman
– 3x Stanley Cup winner
– 2x Norris winner
– 2x Olympic Gold winner
– 2015 Conn Smythe winner
– 7 teeth left on the ice
Thank you, Duncs. pic.twitter.com/zkJvJkfPQK— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) July 12, 2021
From everyone in Chicago, we thank you Duncan for everything you’ve done for the team and the city. Best wishes to Keith in Edmonton, and welcome Caleb Jones to Chicago. One thing is for sure though, keep all eyes on a possible trade between Columbus, and Chicago involving Seth Jones.
My name is Zach Martin, and I am the Chicago Blackhawks beat writer for Belly Up Sports and Belly Up Hockey Follow me on Twitter for the most up-to-date Blackhawks content and news. I’m a co-host on a hockey podcast, Cannons & Tomahawks, that talks about all things NHL.
