Chicago Blackhawks: What Will They Do with Their Final Roster Spot?

The Chicago Blackhawks opened up a roster spot Monday, announcing that forward Ben Smith was being sent back down to Rockford. The Blackhawks may have some ideas on how they want to fill that spot before Wednesday's game in Minnesota.

Or they may have decided to take 22 players to tangle with the conference-leading Wild.

I'm fine with this move right now.

Smith is a talented prospect, but he was little used since coming up November 17th. He's much better off taking a regular shift with the IceHogs.

At this point, we're left to speculate on what the 'Hawks are going to do with the open spot. Okay, so let's speculate.

Option A: Here Comes A Trade

The Blackhawks may be working on obtaining a forward and need the spot formerly occupied by Smith for that new player. We all know Chicago could use a top-six forward, either on the wing or at center.

I don't think this is the case right now.

First, it seems a little early for GM Stan Bowman to be making deals based on his short history on the job.

Second, a trade for an impact player would probably involve at least one player on the current roster. That negates the need to clear a spot.

Option B: Another Call Up Gets His Shot

Chicago may be calling up another player from Rockford in Smith's place. Ideally, this would be a forward who could add some complementary scoring.

Who might that be? Brandon Pirri has been an active goal scorer in Rockford. He currently leads the IceHogs with 10 goals and 24 points.

Brandon Segal could provide some physical fourth-line play and has nine Rockford goals, but he won't score much in the NHL. I can't see Rostislav Olesz back up in Chicago this season for cap reasons.

Maybe Jeremy Morin gets a chance to come up and fill the net. He hasn't done that consistently in Rockford, though.

I'd say Pirri is in line for the call-up if the 'Hawks decide to go in that direction.

Option C: Stand Pat At 22 Players

The 'Hawks went with 22 players for much of last season.

They might be thinking they could manage for awhile with 12 forwards and John Scott, recalling Rockford players on a game-to-game basis if needed.

If Bryan Bickell is ready to get back to action and play like he wants a job in the NHL, then this is a possibility. In case of injury, players like Pirri, Morin and Smith could be brought up for a night.

On that note, a guy I wouldn't mind the club rewarding for a night is 2011 fifth-rounder Andrew Shaw, who has 14 points in Rockford. He has a nose for the net and seems to fear no one on the ice. Too bad he's not currently under contract with the Blackhawks.

Bowman may tip his hand soon as to what option the Blackhawks choose to employ regarding the opening.

If they decide to call up a player, I'd think it would be before departing for Minnesota. Bowman has placed calls to his NHL counterparts, so a deal is not out of the realm of possibility.

Is the best move a trade, another call-up or no move at all? We should soon see which option Bowman selects.