ESPN Chicago

  (2:23 PM)

Guys, Jesse is going to be just a few minutes late. Just posted a story on Toews missing tomorrow's game, but Q said he's progression.

ESPN Chicago

  (2:23 PM)

Progressing

Jesse Rogers

  (2:49 PM)

Sorry I'm late -- Hawks had a late practice and then we had some tech difficulties. Here we go...

Ilija (Tucson, AZ)

What are the Hawks offering other teams in terms of trade bait? Obviously prospects and draft picks, but any roster players?

Jesse Rogers

  (2:52 PM)

I'm sure Michael Frolik is available, as well as any role players, if it means getting an impact player in return. More than likely a trade won't happen using roster players unless it was a big one and the Hawks had to offer someone like Dylan Olsen.

Jeff R (Dallas)

The guys played last night with a tremendous level of energy. Is this team as is good enough to make it to the Finals with that level of energy, or, is it even possible to maintain the level of energy every night for this team?

Jesse Rogers

  (2:53 PM)

It's possible once you get to the playoffs, they'll play like this every night -- that's what's so great about the playoffs. But most hockey observers think they are a player or two short to go all the way, but that doesn't mean they can't -- it just means they won't be a favorite.

Nino (Gurnee)

If someone told you before the season that the Hawks would go through a staggering 0-for-30 run on the PP, with no major injuries to pin it on, you would have said:

Jesse Rogers

  (2:55 PM)

I would have said it happens even though it sounds incredibly tough to be that bad, but power plays especially go through streaks, both good and bad. Just like the 9-gm losing streak, this one has lasted longer than I thought.

Paul (Chicago)

The second unit on the PP is a complete joke. Why not go with 25 on that unit to give them some speed. We can still keep 15 on the ice for screen purposes.

Jesse Rogers

  (2:56 PM)

I have no problem with that suggestion -- I agree that 15 should still be there. You can still get breakaways on PPs, so I have no problem with having Stahlberg out there for that.

Matt (Ames)

After not making any deals to help get the team out of their skid, how likely do you think Bowman is to make a move now that the team is playing well again?

Jesse Rogers

  (2:57 PM)

I don't think the team playing well has anything to do with whether he makes a deal or not. They are still short for the playoffs if for no other reason than injuries. They need a center or defenseman, possibly a grinder-type. Those will helpful with or without injuries.

Shmavid (Chicago)

Jesse, Dylan Olsen has looked better every game he's played. Do you think he can stick around even with a healthy Hjalmarsson and Mantodor?

Jesse Rogers

  (2:59 PM)

Absolutely. The Hawks have a recent history of bringing along their young defensemen that make an impact late in the season. I think right now he's at least their no. 6 even with everyone healthy, however, there's no telling if he'll hit a wall down the stretch. That's why you need reinforcements.

Sam (Evanston)

What's Hammer's progress so far?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:00 PM)

He's looking good. Practiced hard again today and should play tomorrow.

Alex (ISU (Normal))

Jesse, after the recent losing streak and the start of this new one, along with recent play, is it too son to be optimistic about this seemingly rejuvenated Hawks team?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:01 PM)

I'd say maybe a little, however, these last few games have been very encouraging. Winning tight, low-scoring games has not happened very often this year but the fact that they're doing it now is a good sign for the upcoming months.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:02 PM)

Ok, sorry folks. I was dictating those answers cause was having internet problems. So now I can give you more detailed answers...will stay on till about 3 pm. sorry for delay and confusion today

Sonny (Clayboh, FL)

Do you think Coach Q will eventually put Hayes in a Big Buff type of role? Stick him in front of the net and let him knock in the strays from the snipers?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:04 PM)

I think its coming to do that. The kids confidence is sky high. I dont think Sharp is the answer in front of the net. Thats who was there without Toews in the lineup..when youre 0-32 you may as well try something else right?

Paul (Chicago)

With Hammer back tomorrow, who sits?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:05 PM)

Its a good question. AS goofy as it is that Scott only plays a few min I think Q likes having him in there...so either Lepisto or Frolik is my guess...Scott would move back up front for frolik. Im going that route..

brett (grayslake)

Did you find out why Crow broke his stick?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:06 PM)

Oh, yeah. I tweeted out that Crow got mad and broke his stick on the crossbar at prac today. He took a puck in his right shoulder that stung him and got mad...

Tony (Bensenville)

Jesse, why is Stan Bowman unable to pull the trigger on a trade to help this team. Is he being hampered by upper management, is he just incompetent or unwilling?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:07 PM)

Those are all good questions..until he does pull the trigger we have to say hes simply getting beat. Maybe hes getting beat by more experienced GM's or maybe he's getting beat because he's too cautious with his picks and prospects..dont know the whole story until after the trade deadline..but this much we know: he's had interest in several d-man that have moved and hasnt bagged on yet.

Mike (Great White North)

Do you see any defense men coming on the market late. Anybody out there that will help us??

Jesse Rogers

  (3:09 PM)

I think Vishnovsky in Anaheim could be a target..maybe Allen in Carolina..I would bet there is a name that hasnt been tossed around the Hawks are looking at...have to sniff it out...they could use Vish but price is hefty..

Chris (Chicago)

What will Bowman add now? I know the team is playing well, but I don't think we are quite cup ready with this group. I hope this run isn't lulling Stan to sleep on our needs.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:10 PM)

I think they could still use a top 6 forward preferrably a center as well as a D-man as well as a 4th line type...so I mean there are people out there....I'd be SHOCKED if he did nothing. absolutely shocked...now, he might do something that no one ends up liking..but they will get a body or two for sure, in my opinion. how good? not sure

Ryan (Vegas)

how about a deal with dallas for burish and ott?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:14 PM)

I would get burish in a heartbeat...easy deal to make..not sure about OTT. not as easy and not as cheap..and not having a great season..I actually had heard some things over the weekend that led me to believe they might close to getting burish..def have shown interest but hasnt happened yet..maybe he wont leave town after the game tomorrow or maybe he plays for the home team...just not sure, if they are interested, why it hasnt happened..unless they want to see if another deal goes down first...can get him on monday...btw, ruutu signed back with carolina so hes off the market

Ray (GH)

as we're at the deadline do you, if you were the GM, sell high on Stalberg?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:17 PM)

That's one of those questions you cant answer without a deal to look at. If you can get an impact veteran player..legit top 6 center or what not and stalberg is part of the deal, yes i would. But to make a blanket statement its too hard...bottom line, he's not part of the major core so if dealing him gets you better you do it..heck, if dealing part of the core gets you better you do it...but most of the time, deadline deals dont involve big parts of your team..most of the team...a HUGE deal might require it though

Kenny (Chicago)

Any truth to the rumor on Bowman calling up Hayes to dangle him as trade bait? I don't want to lose him for a mid-tier rental, he's the big power forward that bickell hasn't been the past couple of years.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:19 PM)

That's a silly rumor. They are trying to win games right now...he came up at the end of a losing streak...not sure they are worried about showcasing....I dont think a GM tells Stan "bring up that kid and let me see him play". it was the right move. Shaw hit a wall..Hayes turn...not saying it NEVER happens but the scenarios the hawks are/were in I just dont see it...bottom line if they were going to inlcude him in a deal,I highly doubt leaving him in the minors or brigning him up affects it

Mark (Chicago)

Answer the Toews/Concussion question please.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:21 PM)

I dont think he has a dignosed concussion..but think he was banged around enough to feel it...going back a few games and then sunday against st. louis he had a few battles with Langenbrunner I think...be one thing if he left the game after a big hit but we didnt see it..anyway, might be splitting hairs..the way Q talked its not crosby like, lets put it that way...i think he's back this weekend..at least thats what im hearing the plan is...

fan (IL)

think kane will stay at center if he continues to play the way he did last night when 19 gets back?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:22 PM)

Im going to say no. I think that a short term thing..Now, ou never say never..if he has 2-3 games as well as he played last night...you let that run its course..but is there long term, no way.

Shmavid (Chicago)

Jesse, a lot of people are upset that Bowman hasn't pulled off a trade yet. But if you look at the majority of trades made so far, teams acquiring help are overpaying a lot in my opinion. I want a move to happen as well, but not sure people would be much happier if we gave up high draft picks or top prospects for an average rental.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:25 PM)

There is something to that but you have to pay a price to win the cup or get close..you really care about a 2nd round pick? these rentals arent anything that special, I dont disagree..though I do like Kyle Quincey...but you need depth..one blocked shot, oine hit to the head and you are depleted...injuries cant be an excuse if you stand still and dont load up..especailly on the back end..and dont you think Ken Holland and Holmgren in Philly know what they're doing?? They paid the price, why not the Hawks?

bryan (naperville)

Are you still hearing anything on the trade front referring to goaltending depth????...I hate to say it because it can change so quickly, but last night Crawford reminded me of Niemi in the San Jose series back during the cup run...the man was standing on his head!!

Jesse Rogers

  (3:26 PM)

I never, even once, heard the Hawks were in the market for a netminder...there is no evidence or call to another team that proves that..so I think they figured they cant do better than what they have..only the same or worse..and craw on sunday was needed even more than last night I thought..both were good games

Will (Indianapolis)

I know Kruger is getting better as the season moves along, but I still feel like we need another center. Morrison hasn't been good enough to play unless we've had injuries. Is pirri gonna get another shot or are we gonna make another move?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:28 PM)

Pirri wont get a shot unless there is another injury..Toews went down and they went with Morrison so think Pirri isnt destined to be here any time soon...

Brian (Frankfort)

Jesse, with all the names that are in the rumor mill right now, two that have caught my eye are Centers Steve Ott and Mike Ribeiro from Dallas. Do you think either of these guys fill the depth the Hawks need at the center position? And do you think the Hawks have any interest in either of these two guys?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:30 PM)

Ribeiro is interesting to me...it will cost you next year but he could be a legit 2nd line guy they need...Im not sold on Ott..his money might not be worth it but Ribeiro could be a fit..price is probabaly high, not just the money but picks/prospects...I think they have inquired..they said no to grossman for saad so you know dalls is prob asking for him,etc.

Dave (Philadelphia)

Though he might be more natural as a 3rd line center, what do you think of keeping Kruger on the 2nd and giving Hossa a decent powerforward or sniping winger on the other side?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:32 PM)

I think its an option they are considering if they dont make a trade for a center...a top 6 left wing would fit fine..they could always start the playoffs like that then move things around--like sharp to center--if kruger cant handle it..maybe he can..kid keeps proving himself..but its not ideal..trade would be best

Dave (Canada)

Jesse, Maple Leafs fans are kicking themselves with the fact they let jimmy Hayes go. He is special with tons of upside. Is he going to stick this time?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:33 PM)

I simply cannot answer that. Shaw was going to the hall of fame and he leveled off..just have to wait, watch and see...

Eric (Schaumburg)

Is Seabrook the toughest player on this team, if not in the league? Nothing ever keeps him down..knock on wood. Last night, he blocked a shot with his stomach. On purpose.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:34 PM)

I think he is the toughest guy on the team..those blows to the head he's taken have been vicious and hes missed minimal time..he's up there for sure..

Steve (Chicago)

Do you think the recent re-emergence of Bryan Bickell has anything to do with his wrist getting better? He's been great recently and his size is always a plus.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:34 PM)

Wrist from last postseason? no, he's just playing with fear maybe? fear of losing his gig come playoffs..no one likes to sit at that time of year especially.

Leroy (Harrogate UK)

Do you think that Sharps wrist is still affecting him?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:35 PM)

Yes..cant tell you how much but yes

Josh Martin (Dekalb, IL)

Jesse I know you are probably getting a ton of questions on the power play but what would you do moving forward to get it rolling again? To me it seems they don't have the right people on the point. They seem hesitant to shoot and when they do let it rip they miss the net. This a need that could be addressed before the offseason or are they looking to move forward with what they have?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:36 PM)

Yeah, Ive said it a lot..Hossa should be back there with sharp and seabrook...go find one more via trade..a pilot or what not...or make the kane the pilot but tell him once in a while he has to dump and chase it..not exactly his forte..

Chris (Purdue)

Hey Jesse, lets be honest, Toews is battling a concussion right now isnt he? Ever since that SJ game where he got absolutely beat up (made me sick to watch), he hasnt been anywhere close to the Toews we know. Just has looked off and that SJ game he really took a beating. Whats your take?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:38 PM)

I agree and thats why its hard to say if he got belted in the st. louis game or just a cumulative affect...either way, doesnt matter, short term is the key..thats the way I look at it..whereas a full-on concussion from one big blow might be longer...that make sense?

Jack (Illinois)

Stan has made one small move in Morrison. Seems like maybe he is going to just stand pat with this team and try and ride them to the cup. All of your other trade predictions have already been traded to other teams.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:39 PM)

So he's on to other guys..no way he stands pat..unless he's forced to.

Pearce (Chicago)

Quenneville drives me crazy with his constant line changes. Jesse, what are your favorite line matchups with the current roster of forwards?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:42 PM)

He's getting closer in my opinion..been saying for a while Stalberg is a perfect fit on that 3rd line with bolland..and I guess bickell..thought frolik could handle it but he's just not playing with great confidence on offensive end..and that line WILL need to provide some offense just as it did last yr, and the yr before with ladd and versteeg and the yr before with havlat, etc...I dont have a problem with sharp/toews/kane but that means they HAVE to make a trade for another top 6 to play with hossa...other wise, drop sharp down with hossa and kruger and I guess try Hayes up top...brunette, mayers...whoever..is fine for now for a 4th line but Id get burish and make that line tougher and faster

Jeff (Arlington Heights)

Why do you think it took so long for Crawford to learn to stay in his crease? It was evident during the loosing streak both goalies were out of position on too many plays.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:44 PM)

I question a few things during that streak in terms of why it took so long..maybe they were overcompensating for a defense not exactly doing their part..its hard to know why it took so long but its all a process...should be just glad they and he came out of it before the season tanked!

Dan ( Northbrook)

Heard a good take on the radio about GM's not willing to deal the farm if they don't think they have a legitimate shot at the cup. You think Bowman believes this team could win it even if he adds a top six and dman?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:47 PM)

I simply dont believe the Hawks will EVER believe that with this core in place. No way..last year would be about the only time they would of and I dont think they did then...you get in, you can win..BUT I do think GM's can be gun shy about pulling big deals..but to answer your question, I dont believe that for a second..teams almost always convince themselves they have a shot...this isnt the stars in 10th place or something...this is a legit team with star players

Al (Chicago)

TSN's Trade Bait list has Carter, Gaustad, and Roy as potential trade-able players- Have any of these names come up or do you think one of them could fit our center-needs?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:48 PM)

I think Roy would be the one from that group..he fits...

Rich (New York)

Why does Q insist on playing Scott at D if he only gets a few minutes per game? Might as well only dress 19 guys to begin with. Doesn't help the team one bit when Scott plays D

Jesse Rogers

  (3:49 PM)

He keeps playing him because of what went down in SJ..people taking liberties..thats simply why..for insurance out there..

Al (Chicago)

We all probably heard the "rumored" Kane for Miller trade but (forgetting that one) what rumor have you heard that was the most outrageous?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:50 PM)

I dont know . I dont follow goofy stuff like that..maybe poeple thinking hawks would get Nash..never going to happen

Joey (Elmhurst) [via mobile]

If we add a Dman, what's the market for Montador or ODonnell or Lepisto? Seems we'd have one too many.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:50 PM)

no market..just throw in to help the deal get done maybe..or buried in the minors..not so much montador..

Ryan (Work...)

What was the initial mindset behind trading for Morrison? Was he really supposed to be the answer as a 2nd line Center?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:51 PM)

hard to know..like betting on a long shot? doesnt cost much but reward is worth it? I guess that was the thinking

Mike (Hammond, IN)

Love the patient, play your own game plan, but it seems to take a period to get into and a great goalie to keep them in it in the first period. Your thoughts?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:53 PM)

Yeah, this time really doesnt play with desperation for 60 minutes do they? I know most teams dont night in and night out but how about a few nights?? They will in the playoffs, I think...but hey you cant always be perfect..this has been pretty good run despite getting down 1-0 in last 3 games..

Jeff (Chicago)

Jesse,When do you think you'll ever see a diving call made in the NHL?I point to the penalty call on Seabrook last night where he barely touched the guy buy he fell like he was shot in both legs.

Jesse Rogers

  (3:53 PM)

Man, they used to call much more often..i dont know why its not anymore...not that there are a lot of dives but cmon, we havent had one all season that I can recall

Brian (San Francisco)

It seems like defensemen are flying off the shelf. Anything in the rumor mill about who Stan is pursuing?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:55 PM)

I think Vishnovsky has moved to the near front but Im just unsure if that deal gets done..I think they would like him though

Jeff R (Dallas)

Everyone is mad at Scott playing. I can't believe I'm about to say it, but he hasn't looked as awkward lately. I know its been on limited minutes as of late, but he hasn't looked as slow and out of place recently... Agreed?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:56 PM)

I do agree..he had one really good shift last night keeping the puck in teh off zone..forced det to ice it and I believe they called their timeout..hes not going to kill you out there but he doesnt make a lot happen either..obviously very limited but he's been ok..I like what Q said to Pat foley about him..if hawks didnt have him, people would be screaming for him..they finally have the premier heavyweight in the league and thats a controversey...But Im with most people, if you dress him, play him more

Mike (Chicago)

How nuts would a STL-CHI playoff series be? Might be Scotts only chance to see some ice during the playoffs...

Jesse Rogers

  (3:57 PM)

About as nuts as Hawks/wings...4 one goal games, all tight, low scoring..that would be a heck of a series

Mir (Chicago)

Is there any weight to the Burish trade rumors?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:57 PM)

I said earlier I do believe there is.

Matt (Chicago)

Could Stan be saving his D trade bait so he can throw it all at a true, grinding second line Center, then commit to Olsen for the duration?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:58 PM)

Absoultely. Since prob any d-man out there isnt going to put you over the top, if you can get a center that will..yo do it..and of course, it actually helps your D if you have some really good two-way center.

Joe Koperski (Lisle)

Jesse trying to get one of my questions posted here, are the Hawks going to trade Emery?

Jesse Rogers

  (3:59 PM)

No

Paul (Mt. Prospect)

Do you think next years CBA with talk of cap going down to $60M is effecting Stan in pulling the trigger?

Chris (Chicago)

Do GMs have a harder time trading a guy who wears a letter? ie Derek Roy?

Chris (Skokie)

Are Dowell and Burish both out for the Stars tomorrow?

Jesse Rogers

  (4:00 PM)

Dowell is out..burish had the flu last night so would assume hed play by tomorrow but cant say for sure right now

Nate (Chicago)

Last attempt by me to hear about the Brendon Segal trade that happened last night. Can you at least acknowledge that it happened?

Jesse Rogers

  (4:01 PM)

Ok, I acknowledge that happened..but dont know the implications..its a minor leaguer for minor leaguer..thats one I need to ask stan next time I get the chance..

Jesse Rogers

  (4:04 PM)

Thats going to do it for today..great questions..stay with espnchciago.com for the latest on the trade deadline, etc. follow me on twitter @espnchihawks and check out my blog for updated stuff daily and of course at night after games..sorry if I missed your question..you can always email me at jrogers@espnchicago.com..talk to you next week after the trade deadline