Sharp was not good this season in any way. Poor defensively, constantly missing the net. His points this season were incredibly quiet and hard to remember (outside of the gift in Game 5). The rumors that went around about his personal life were disgraceful. I don't know where they came from. Or why they were spread. I would not be upset to hear he's suing someone over that and credit hfboards moderators for not allowing that talk.
Sharp was amazing in his career for the 'Hawks, but this season was a mess for him. Trading him saves cap room and gives him a fresh start. I wish him well.
Having said that, Sharp will likely go to the East. Teams looking for scoring include:
1. Montreal
2. Washington
3. New York Islanders
4. Florida Panthers
5. Columbus Blue Jackets
6. New Jersey Devils
7. Carolina Hurricanes
8. Toronto Maple Leafs
9. Buffalo Sabres
10. Pittsburgh
Out of those teams, I'll assume Sharp would accept a trade to Montreal, Washington, New York, Toronto, and maybe Florida.
Perhaps Toronto ships out Kessel and replaces him with Sharp? If he's OK with Pittsburgh, perhaps they trade Malkin and take in Sharp? Chicago needs a center and the Islanders have a lot of center depth. Perhaps Anders Lee + a pick for Patrick Sharp? Or Frans Neilsen with retained salary (who will be a UFA next season, current 3.5 million contract).
My guess is he goes to the Islanders. They are going to a new arena and will want to make a splash. They are going to go after either Sharp or whomever St Louis/San Jose chooses to part with. Raanta might be a part of that deal as well, as NYI may need a backup with Neuvirth being a UFA.
To NYI:
Patrick Sharp
Annti Raanta
Mark McNeill
To CHI:
Frans Neilsen (25% retained)
Josh Ho-Sang
112th overall 2015