Brandon Hagel’s Trade: A Tough Call for Blackhawks That Paid Off

The Chicago Blackhawks faced some difficult decisions during their rebuilding phase, and while some moves may have hurt the team in the short term, they were crucial for future success. One of the most notable trades was sending Brandon Hagel to the Tampa Bay Lightning during the 2021-22 season.

Before the trade, Hagel had played 55 games, tallying 21 goals and 16 assists for 37 points. Though he wasn’t a point-per-game player, his scoring ability and tenacity were exactly what the Lightning needed. That spring, Hagel joined Tampa Bay in their quest for the Stanley Cup, marking his first appearance in the finals, although the Lightning ultimately fell to the Colorado Avalanche.

What transpired next was a pleasant surprise for both teams. While Hagel had room for growth, few anticipated his transformation from a solid middle-six forward to a star player on the first line. In Tampa, he became a point-per-game player, excelling in all three zones and earning a reputation as one of the NHL’s premier “pests.”

His accolades continued to grow, as he was selected for Team Canada in prestigious tournaments, contributing to the championship-winning 4-Nations Face-Off team in 2025 and the Silver Medal-winning Olympic team in 2026.

This past season, Hagel notched 36 goals and 38 assists for 74 points across 71 games, showcasing his elite talent when healthy. Last season, he recorded 35 goals and 55 assists for 90 points in a full 82-game slate. His ability to elevate his game would undoubtedly benefit any team, particularly when combined with his competitive spirit.

In a pivotal Game 2 against the Montreal Canadiens, Hagel made his presence felt, scoring his third goal of the playoffs and providing an assist. He also engaged in a spirited fight with former number one overall pick Juraj Slafkovsky, reinforcing his reputation as a clutch playoff performer.

While Hagel’s success in Tampa may cast a shadow on the trade, it was a calculated move for the Blackhawks at the time. The team received two roster players and a first-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, which they used to select Oliver Moore, a player who fits their long-term vision better than Hagel might have.

Hagel’s absence also contributed to the Blackhawks finishing as one of the league’s bottom teams this season, ultimately securing them a favorable chance in the draft lottery. Had they retained him, the outcome of the lottery—and their future—might have been drastically different.

Ultimately, the Blackhawks recognized that a successful rebuild required tough choices, and Hagel was one of several talented players let go, alongside Alex DeBrincat, Dylan Strome, and Patrick Kane. His recent playoff performance has reignited discussions about the trade, but the decision was a necessary step toward building a stronger future.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.