from Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun,

- The Chicago Blackhawks are confusing — on so many levels. They had a nice young developing player in Brandon Hagel. So they traded him away for two first-round picks. Likely late picks from Tampa. Picks that may come around in 2024 or 2025 or later than that, if they come around at all. Why move what looks like a sure thing when you’re not certain of what you’re getting in exchange?

- After an interrupted season followed by a shortened season, this is a strange full regular season for the Eastern Conference of the NHL. There are basically 20 games to go and no playoff races left. The most meaningless quarter-season I can remember.

- Teams that can win the Stanley Cup: Colorado, Calgary, Tampa Bay, Florida, and Carolina. That’s my list, that’s all subject to change tomorrow.

a few more hockey notes...