The Chicago Blackhawks acquired forward Michal Handzus of the San Jose Sharks Monday in exchange for a 4th round selection in the 2013 NHL Draft.
A 2006 – 2007 member of the Chicago Blackhawks, Handzus has registered 2 points (1G, 1A) in 28 games and is a -9 during this shortened 2012 – 2013 season. Perhaps his most appealing numbers are at the faceoff circle, in which he has won 55% of his draws. Chicago could use a consistent center, and the 36 year-old veteran may be able to do that.
Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Stan Bowman commented Monday, “we could use some experience and some depth at center… Faceoffs are an area we’ve tried to get better at.”
Handzus has spent time St Louis, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Jose throughout his NHL career. He has recorded 461 points (180G, 281A) in 989 games while posting 32 points (11G, 21A) in 74 Stanley Cup Playoff appearances during his 13 year NHL career.
Shortly after acquiring Michal Handzus, Chicago assigned Brandon Bollig to its AHL affiliate Rockford Icehogs.
Michael Handzus will not play in Monday night’s matchup against the Nashville Predators in Chicago.