The Blackhawks are going to the ends of the alphabet in search of a defenseman who could bolster their power play.
Zarley Zalapski is on their short list, if the Hawks brass can decide if they really like the Hartford blue-liner. Seven of his 13 goals this season have come on power plays, and a good share of his 38 assists probably have, too.
But Zalapski is inconsistent. He tends to disappear at times in games and the Hawks are worried about that.
Zalapski and Ottawa defenseman Norm MacIver, who will play Sunday at the Stadium, are two key trade possibilities for the Hawks as the NHL approaches its March 20 deadline for making deals.
Draft dodging: The Hawks could have had a draft pick as high as the second round from Buffalo this June if goalie Dominik Hasek had worked out better. But Hasek is only 10-9-3, which means the Hawks will receive a fourth-round slot from the Sabres.
The terms called for the Hawks to get a third-rounder if Hasek won as many as 25 games and a second-rounder if he had bagged 30 victories. The totals also include playoffs, but Buffalo’s postseason history hasn’t been very glorious.
Award winners: Chris Chelios became the fifth Hawk in five months to win the Three Star Award. Chelios earned the most points in February after these winners from previous months: Ed Belfour, Jeremy Roenick, Steve Smith and Dirk Graham.
Skate with stars: Fans can join four Hawks on Monday night at the State Street rink for a skate. Chelios, Jocelyn Lemieux, Stephane Matteau and Rob Brown will be there from 6 to 8 p.m. to take part in a promotion.
More Top Picks Best Thin Leather Wallets For Men