Blackhawks Acquire Montador from Sabres

The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Wednesday evening that they have acquired the negotiating rights to defenseman Steve Montador from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a seventh round pick in the 2012 or 2013 Entry Draft. The year of the pick is likely conditional on the Blackhawks getting Montador signed to a contract or not. He will be eligible for unrestricted free agency on July 1. In 73 games last season, he had five goals and 21 assists for 26 points and 83 penalty minutes. Assuming the Blackhawks can get Montador under contract before he becomes a free agent, this is a decent move for the team. He will bring plenty of grit and toughness to the blueline, as well as some offensive skill. If Chicago can get him signed, he should be a good fit for the team.