Amidst a dismal season, the Chicago Blackhawks confront pivotal decisions regarding Seth Jones and other players. Jones, who requested a trade, is tied to a hefty $9.5 million annual contract for the next five years and has displayed solid offensive stats (27 points in 42 games) despite injury setbacks. The significant salary demands pose a challenge for management, especially considering his declining speed at 30 years old.

The Blackhawks are also considering the future of Connor Murphy, a dependable defenseman looking for playoff opportunities after 721 regular-season games without a playoff appearance. Murphy's contract, set at $4.4 million for one more season, may entice teams looking for defensive assets. Meanwhile, Ryan Donato is enjoying a career year, and if the Blackhawks can secure a solid return for him, it could be an avenue for rebuilding.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are not considering trading star player Auston Matthews, even if they experience another early playoff exit. With Matthews and William Nylander holding no-movement clauses, the Leafs aim to build their franchise around these key players. Although a first-round loss could prompt significant changes within the organization, Matthews is firmly in their plans. Recent discussions have raised questions about the potential of Mitch Marner playing center amid injuries, which could provide depth if John Tavares is not re-signed.

Additionally, trade discussions are swirling around Connor Murphy of the Chicago Blackhawks, who is seen as a desirable asset for contending teams. Murphy’s ability to play on the second pairing and his physical presence make him an attractive option, but the complexities of the Seth Jones contract and salary cap issues could hinder potential trades.

Despite the potential for an early playoff exit, the Toronto Maple Leafs are not considering trading star player Auston Matthews. Both Matthews and William Nylander possess no-movement clauses, indicating that they will be central to the team's future. While significant changes might be contemplated if the team falters again in the playoffs, Matthews is safe. The Leafs have also been hesitant to experiment with Mitch Marner as a center, a role that might have been beneficial given their injury issues.

In Chicago, the Blackhawks are facing strategic decisions regarding Connor Murphy, who is gaining interest from contending teams. His versatility on defense and remaining contract year could appeal to teams looking to bolster their blue line. Meanwhile, Seth Jones' hefty contract complicates Chicago's salary cap situation, limiting their options.

Jordan Greenway participated in the morning skate with the Buffalo Sabres, returning from a mid-body injury sustained on December 15. Coach Lindy Ruff stated that Greenway's return would depend on his progress and physical readiness, with no set date established. Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames placed Kevin Bahl on injured reserve, with an estimated recovery of a few weeks. The Chicago Blackhawks welcomed Connor Murphy back after he missed 13 games due to a groin injury, while Miro Heiskanen of the Dallas Stars faces a longer absence of several weeks for recovery. The Ottawa Senators will be without Nick Cousins for six to eight weeks following a knee injury. Additionally, Yanni Gourde from the Seattle Kraken is expected to miss five to seven weeks post-surgery for a sports hernia.

With Jeremy Swayman potentially returning to the Boston Bruins lineup after a recent upper-body injury, the team is optimistic about his swift recovery. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres face challenges as defenseman Rasmus Dahlin missed practice, although forward Ryan McLeod could be ready to play. The Carolina Hurricanes are making headlines with a significant trade for Mikko Rantanen, while their William Carrier is sidelined for a couple of months due to a lower-body injury that needed surgery.

In other injury news, the Chicago Blackhawks are dealing with Seth Jones and Connor Murphy absent from their recent showdown. The New Jersey Devils will be without Jacob Markstrom for at least a month due to a sprained MCL. Furthermore, the New York Islanders' Noah Dobson is expected to miss several weeks. The Philadelphia Flyers are also grappling with injuries, as Egor Zamula is out, and Pittsburgh Penguins’ Bryan Rust is classified as day-to-day.