DeMelo and Stanley are familiar with each other's game. DeMelo also played the first 2 years of Thachuk, Batherson, and played for Chabot's best year. He would replace Zub on RD and be guaranteed to play another year, unlike Zub who's UFA. You also get size on your D with Stanley on your LD.

Toews is basically a rental player. One who also probably wouldn't waive his clause for any stupid trade, if he would even be willing to. (Toews has openly voiced his anger towards CHI moves)

Why give up premium top pieces for someone we could just sign at the end of the year? (Have to pull a Habs mentality lol)

Axel J-F is still only 24 and could use him to help with the LW
Limoges is also still young at 25, who has 12 points in 12 GP in the AHL and can play C and LW. CHI is weak at the bottom 6 C and LW. Both these players could help CHI's depth, then can look at trading their attractive pending number of UFA's to build a future lineup. Before they lose them for nothing.