Could Patrick Sharp, Dustin Byfuglien or Kris Versteeg be dealt as a cost cutting measure? Could the Blackhawks shop for another goalie?

SPORTSNET.CA: Nick Kypreos reports the salary cap is making it difficult to keep great teams together, noting the Blackhawks salary cap issues could force management into dumping some players to clear sufficient space to re-sign Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane and Duncan Keith. Kypreos lists Patrick Sharp, Dustin Byfuglien and Kris Versteeg as possible trade candidates. He also points out the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins will need to find money to re-sign Sergei Gonchar, Mark Eaton and Kris Letang.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: The Penguins aren't in as dire need of retaining key players as the Blackhawks, who risk losing at least two good players before next summer if they hope to retain core players Kane, Toews and Keith. Sharp's name has popped up the most in trade rumors even though the Blackhawks would undoubtedly prefer to keep him. Cam Barker is another who could be potential trade bait.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE: Steve Rosenbloom recently speculated Blackhawks goalie Cristobal Huet has until Christmas at the latest to prove himself a capable starting goalie, otherwise management will likely step up the search for one, perhaps by shopping a scorer.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: If Antti Niemi should prove himself capable they might not have to go shopping but Rosenbloom has a point in that management isn't going to wait forever for Huet to prove himself, especially with a roster that has the potential to challenge for the Stanley Cup this season.