Hawks deal Meszaros to Isles 2009-08-01 The Chicago Blackhawks this afternoon announced the long expected dealing of Andrej Meszaros. Surprisingly however Meszaros wasn't the only talented Hawk shipped out, the defenceman was sent to the isles along with Ville Leino and Keith Yandle for a trio of very talented youngsters. In return the Hawks got highly regarded prospects Jordan Eberle and Kevin Shattenkirk, as well as young power forward Chris Stewart. "We gave up a lot in this deal, but in return we added 3 terrific young players with extremely high ceilings" said GM Semonick. The key to the deal was dynamic scoring forward Jordan Eberle, who was dominant in the WHL and world junior before finishing his season by torching AHL opposition in a 9 game audition. He is likely still a year away from cracking an NHL roster, but when he does he has point per game upside. Kevin Shattenkirk enjoyed another fine season anchoring powerhouse Boston University's blueline. The undersized defenceman plays bigger than his size, and has tremendous 2-way potential. The most intriguing physical package of the 3 players the Hawks recieved was no doubt hulking winger Chris Stewart. He possesses quickness rarely seen in 6'2 230 pound wingers, and has also displayed a scoring touch. He could be a legitimate power forward, and fills a hole in the pipeline providing a potential long range replacement for veterans Jarome Iginla and Brenden Morrow. The deal also clears a good deal of cap space for the Hawks, as the less expensive and arguable superior player Alexander Edler will slide seamlessly into Meszaros' spot on the Hawks blueline. It remains to be seen whether or not the Hawks will still move Milan Michalek, as this deal opens up sufficient cap space for the club to sign the talented young winger.
