Domino Fallen: Andrew Ladd to Chicago

Photo courtesy of huffingtonpost.ca

The Blackhawks have bulked up to win yet again with their recent acquisition of Winnipeg captain Andrew Ladd.  Ladd, who won a Stanley Cup with the Hawks in 2010, will surely fit in with an already exceptional group of talent in The Second City.

He was also the biggest name on the trading block this season.  Full details of trade below:

So, full deal: Ladd, Fraser, Harrison for Dano, a first and a third-rounder in 2018 if CHI wins Cup. WIN retains 36 per cent of Ladd salary.

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 26, 2016

What Does This Mean For Pittsburgh?

I think it's a win for Pittsburgh.  First off, there is no way they had the available assets to pull off the deal.  Secondly, even if they did, they would have grossly overpaid.  I don't think it's a great business deal for Chicago, however, when you've won three Stanley Cups in a six year span, you can afford to make these "all-or-nothing" kind of deals.  Lastly, Ladd is a UFA in the off-season.  The Pens have traded for rentals for the last several seasons and none have panned out whatsoever.

So, good on GM Jim Rutherford to avoid going all-in on this trade.  Now, were the Penguins even involved in conversation with Winnipeg?

According to several sources leading up to the trade, the Penguins did have interest in Ladd.  However, according to Josh Yohe of DKPittsburghSports.com, that news may have been misleading:

The Penguins were never in on Ladd. Read more: https://t.co/DlxOTaadma

— Josh Yohe (@JoshYohe_PGH) February 26, 2016

Despite the conflicting reports/rumors, I have to side with Yohe here solely for the fact that he is more closely affiliated with the team than the other outlets drumming up the rumors.  As mentioned earlier, good on Pittsburgh avoiding the temptation of Ladd and holding the cards closer to their chest.

Do I believe the Penguins make a move between now and Monday?  Of course I do.  A blockbuster?  No.  Am I glad they didn't go after Ladd?  Yes.

Am I going to end this blog by summing up the fact that I'm like the "Speaks in Third Person" doctor from Scrubs?​  Yes, yes I am.