Brandon Saad – A top six player who is about to see a big raise coming his way. In the final year of his entry-level contract, Saad will demand a new deal around the $4M per season, and that should be a fair rate for him.

Adam Clendening – One of their top prospects for a couple seasons now, there will be a few holes opening up next year so he should fill one of those spots. 

Tim Erixon – He will probably receive an inexpensive contract to stick with the Blackhawks. He's certainly bounced around in his young career but Chicago could be a nice landing spot for him and the price should be right for the Blackhawks to find a home for him.

David Rundblad – Much like Erixon, he's bounced around but could be an inexpensive piece to find a home in Chicago.

Markus Kruger – Much like Saad, Kruger is a key piece that will need to be re-signed.  He won't be as expensive as Saad, as Kruger fills a bottom six role, but still a main cog in their engine going forward.

Joakim Nordstrom – Also coming off his entry level contract, Nordstrom has filled in nicely on the fourth line and has shown he is ready to stay full time next season. He should be an inexpensive re-signing for the Blackhawks.

Scott Darling – He has been a big player for the Blackhawks this season and has shown he can be an effective NHL goalie when needed. He will probably sign a two-way deal with Chicago and bounce back and fourth again next year between the NHL and AHL, depending on injuries.

Klas Dahlbeck – He got a call-up recently and although he didn't see a lot of ice-time during his short, four game stint, he is close to being ready for a more regular role with the Blackhawks. 

Who needs a new contract, but will be looking for a new team?

Brad Richards – Here's a guy who came into Chicago and had a golden opportunity to prove he could still contribute on a quality team but to say his season thus far has been a disappointment would be an understatement. 

Michael Rozsival – He will be 37 when next season starts up and you have to wonder if he will be back with the Blackhawks. A defensive defenseman, he still plays about 16 minutes per game for the Blackhawks but will need to take a pay cut from his current cap hit of $2.2M if he wants to be back with Chicago.

Daniel Carcillo – An inexpensive player for Chicago this year "may" be back next year as he does offer some grit to the bottom end of their line-up, but only if he is willing to sign another low-end type of contract.

So as you can see, the Blackhawks have some big choices to make, and soon. With key guys like Saad and Kruger needing new deals, and close to half of their existing defence all looking for new contracts, there will be some changes in Chicago before the puck drops next year.   

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From my family to yours, I want to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  Feel free to follow me on twitter @chrispudsey