Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones has not requested a trade but he’s made it known that he and the franchise agree that the best for them is to part ways.
Jones and the Blackhawks are working together to explore trade possibilities, with the veteran defenseman acknowledging his desire to compete for a contender.
The blueliner told Chicago Sun-Times’ Ben Pope on Wednesday that while conversations are still ongoing between both sides, he and the team are working toward finding him a new home in the trade market.
“I would like to give myself a chance to win in my career,” Jones said. “I know that the money is not an easy thing to move, and that’s what we’re figuring out. If it happens, it happens.
“Obviously, while I’m here with the Blackhawks, they have my full effort (and) full attention to this team to try to get this team better.
Jones, 30, remains one of the NHL’s highest-paid defensemen, carrying a $9.5 million cap hit through the 2029–30 season as part of his eight-year, $76 million contract.
While that price tag could make trade talks complicated, the rising salary cap could make a deal more manageable for teams looking for a long-term defensive star.
Despite Chicago’s struggles, Jones has been productive, recording 26 points in 38 games while averaging 24:38 minutes of ice time per night.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger and The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, multiple teams have inquired about Jones’ availability ahead of the deadline even though Chicago had not actively shopped the defenseman.
Following Jones’ comments on Wednesday and Frank Seravalli’s report about the Blackhawk being “open to being creative” in finding a solution, it’s fair to assume both sides will part ways as soon as possible.
Two things that could be delaying a trade involving Jones, both related to his contract, are the possibility of Chicago retaining part of his salary and the fact that Jones’ contract includes a full no-move clause, giving him the right to agree only to be traded to a destination he approves.
