Hjalmarsson reacts to leaving Chicago in humble, emotional way.

In a deal that left many wondering, beloved Niklas Hjalmarsson was traded to the Coyotes in exchange for Connor Murphy and Laurent Dauphin. Many asked ''in exchange of who?'', but it's too late anyway. 

Hjalmarsson is known to be the perfect professional, being kind with fans and intense on the ice. He was interviewed by the Chicago Tribune and reacted to his trade. 

“I was a little shocked at first,” Hjalmarsson said. “But I knew my name was out there in rumors.”

Of course, with the salary cap situation in Chicago, something had to give. The Hammer was a juicy trade bait and it happened, but with a questionable return, at least to the fans' eyes. Speaking of whom, Hjalmarsson had only good words. 

“I had the best time in Chicago," Hjalmarsson said. "I enjoyed every single year playing in front of the best crowd in the league and the best fans. I was spoiled and had a great time. Now it’s time for me and my family to move on and create some new memories.”

He will be dearly missed in Chicago, but life goes on nonetheless!