Check out Rink prospect guru Jimmy O’Malley and Rink staffers for a LIVE reaction podcast:

The players that the organization selects will be listed below, with links to their prospect profiles and all their vital stats.

2025 Blackhawks NHL Entry Draft

Chicago Blackhawks Draft Picks

Trades made leading to and during the draft:

Date	Outgoing Player/Pick	Opposite Team	Player/Pick Received
6/13/25	Victor Soderstrom		Ryan Mast and a 2025 7th round pick
6/21/25	Joe Veleno		Andre Burakovsky
7/1/25	2026 sixth-round pick		Sam Lafferty

Trade Analysis

• The Boston Bruins acquired Victor Soderstrom from the Chicago Blackhawks for Ryan Mast and a 2025 7th round pick

The Boston Bruins acquired Victor Soderstrom from the Chicago Blackhawks for Ryan Mast and a 2025 7th round pick

• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired forward Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken in exchange for forward Joe Veleno

The Chicago Blackhawks acquired Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken for Joseph Veleno

• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired a 2025 1st round pick (#29) from the Carolina Hurricanes for a 2025 2nd round pick (#34), a 2025 2nd round pick (#62), a 2027 5th round pick

The Chicago Blackhawks acquired a 2025 1st round pick (#29) from the Carolina Hurricanes for a 2025 2nd round pick (#34), a 2025 2nd round pick (#62), a 2027 5th round pick

The post Chicago Blackhawks 2025 Upper Deck NHL Entry Draft Tracker appeared first on The Rink.

The players that the organization select will be listed below, with links to their prospect profiles and all their vital stats.

Trades made leading to and during the draft:

Date	Outgoing Player/Pick	Opposite Team	Player/Pick Received
5/24/2024	2024 1st round pick (#20), 2024 2nd round pick (#54), and a 2024 2nd round pick (#61)		2024 1st round pick (#18) and 2024 2nd round pick (#50)
6/26/24	2027 fourth round pick		Ilya Mikheyev (15% rretained), Sam Lafferty, and a 2027 2nd round pick
6/28/24	2024 2nd round pick (#34), and a 2024 2nd round pick (#50)		2024 1st round pick (#27) - Marek Vanacker
6/29/24	2024 3rd round pick (#92)		2025 3rd round pick

Trade Analysis

• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired a 2024 1st round pick (#18) and 2024 2nd round pick (#50) from the New York Islanders for a 2024 1st round pick (#20), 2024 2nd round pick (#54), and a 2024 2nd round pick (#61)
• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired Ilya Mikheyev (15% retained), Sam Lafferty, and a 2027 2nd round pick from the Vancouver Canucks for a 2027 4th round pick
• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired a 2024 1st round pick (#27) from the Carolina Hurricanes for a 2024 2nd round pick (#34) and 2024 2nd round pick (#50)

The Chicago Blackhawks acquired a 2024 1st round pick (#27) from the Carolina Hurricanes for a 2024 2nd round pick (#34) and 2024 2nd round pick (#50)

The post Chicago Blackhawks 2024 NHL Entry Draft Tracker appeared first on The Rink.

The 29-year-old, 6-foot-2-inch, 192-pound Ilya Mikheyev began his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2019. He signed a four-year contract with the Canucks on July 13, 2022, which has two years remaining at an average annual value of $4.75 million, but the Canucks retained 15% of that deal, so Chicago is on the hook for $4,037,500 for this coming season and next.

Mikheyev has 131 points (60 goals, 71 assists) in 270 regular-season games with the Maple Leafs and Canucks, and four points (two goals, two assists) in 30 playoff games. He can play both wing positions and can easily slot in the Blackhawks’ top six, while also helping Davidson hit the salary cap floor.

Davidson also picked up a name familiar to Blackhawks fans in acquiring the rights to forward Sam Lafferty. Lafferty had his best NHL season with the Blackhawks in 2022–23, when he put up 21 points (10 goals, 11 assists) in 51 games before he was traded to the Maple Leafs on Feb. 27, 2023, prior to the trade deadline. He is scheduled to become a UFA on July 1, but the Blackhawks have negotiating rights to now sign him ahead of that date. The 29-year-old would be able to fill a bottom-six spot if the Blackhawks are able to sign him.

Lafferty was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fourth-round (No. 113) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. He has 83 points (36 goals, 47 assists) in 289 regular-season games and three points (one goal, two assists) in 21 playoff games with the Penguins, Blackhawks, Maple Leafs and Canucks.

Analysis

Davidson continues to weaponize his salary cap space and flexibility to take on short-term bloated contracts from teams facing salary cap issues and acquiring additional assets along the way. Mikheyev and Lafferty are fine depth players who can fill out the roster this season as the Blackhawks continue to draft and develop a young core around last season’s prized draft pick Connor Bedard. The fact that Davidson was able to get Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin to eat 15% of Mikheyev’s salary is a master-class move.

This is some voodoo magic shit. You turn an essentially worthless 4th into a 2nd, a possible top 6 roster player and potentially another who had success here. Also helps you get to the floor for 2 seasons. #Blackhawks https://t.co/IeHQLGRwK5

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) June 27, 2024

This move opens up all kinds of possibilities for the Blackhawks. If Mikheyev can re-ignite his career, after knee surgery, he could be a trade deadline flip candidate this year or next. Davidson could eat a portion of his salary and make Mikheyev a reasonably cheap depth acquisition for a contender. If they keep him for the next two seasons, given he has fully recovers from said knee surgery, Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson has a flexible veteran forward to add to an already experienced group of mentors with Nick Foligno, Taylor Hall, Andreas Athanasiou, Ryan Donato, Jason Dickinson, Seth Jones and Connor Murphy.

Lafferty could give the Blackhawks an opportunity to do something that you often hear from fans: Bring back a fan favorite. If Davidson can re-sign him, Lafferty could also be a trade deadline flip once again. His rights could also be traded at the draft for another asset or as part of another deal as well. The Blackhawks are scheduled to make eight picks in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft this weekend.

The post BREAKING: Blackhawks acquire Mikheyev, Lafferty and draft pick from Vancouver Canucks appeared first on The Rink.

The players that the organization selected are listed below, with links to their prospect profiles and all their vital stats.

Trades made leading to and during the draft:

Date	Outgoing Player/Pick	Opposite Team	Player/Pick Received
6/26/2023	RFA Rights to Ian Mitchell and Alec Regula		Taylor Hall, and UFA rights to Nick Foligno. Foligno was signed to a 1 yr $4M contract for 23/24
6/29/2023	Future Consideration		Josh Bailey and a 2026 2nd round draft pick. Bailey was put on waivers for buyout purposes.
6/30.2023	2023 2nd round pick (51 overall)		2023 6th round pick (#167 overall) and a 2024 2nd.
6/30/2023	2024 7th-round pick		Corey Perry

Trade Analysis

• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno from the Boston Bruins for Ian Mitchell and Alec Regula
• The Philadelphia Flyers acquired a 2023 2nd round pick (#51) from the Chicago Blackhawks for a 2024 2nd round pick and a 2023 6th round pick (#167)
• The Chicago Blackhawks acquired Corey Perry from the Tampa Bay Lightning for a 2024 7th round pick

The post Chicago Blackhawks 2023 NHL Entry Draft Ticker appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-host Jeff Osborn , Rink prospect writer Ray Napientek and The Rink Colorado‘s Aaron Goldschmidt wrap up the Blackhawks first day of the NHL draft.

• • The Stan Bowman and the Blackhawks took a “safe” pick selected Lukas Reichel
  • What we might expect from tomorrow’s rounds 2-7
  • A couple of surprise moves from other teams.

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The post Blackhawks Rinkcast – Season 3, Episode 24 – Day One Draft Wrap appeared first on The Rink.

With the Chicago Blackhawks likely picking toward the back end of the top 10 in this year’s NHL Entry Draft, I would like to unpack why the organization needs—yes, needs—to draft Russian goaltending phenom Yaroslav Askarov.

The current situation

It is no surprise there will soon be a changing of the guard in net for the Blackhawks. Longtime goaltender Corey Crawford is quickly approaching the end of his esteemed career, with likely just another year or two left in his tank, at most. Crawford’s recent injury struggles are well documented, and the netminder could be one collision away from being finished between the pipes.

Additionally, the Blackhawks balked at the opportunity to secure the long-term outlook of the position, trading away Robin Lehner at the trade deadline rather than locking him up to a contract extension.

With Crawford’s playing days likely coming to an end in the near future, the organization will need to answer the question of who will serve as the next Blackhawk great in the crease.

In addition to Crawford, backup goaltender Malcolm Subban is set to be a free agent this offseason. Subban, acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights in the Lehner deal, is 26 years old and will be a restricted free agent. The 2012 Boston first-round pick has struggled to establish himself as a legitimate NHL option, not seeing regular playing time until the 2017–18 season, playing 22 games for Vegas with a 2.68 goals against average (GAA) and a .910 save percentage.

However, since then, Subban’s numbers have steadily dropped off, posting a 3.18 GAA and a .890 save percentage in 20 appearances for the Golden Knights this season before coming to Chicago, where he saw just 70 seconds of action on March 3 against Anaheim while Crawford was momentarily pulled from the game. Though the Blackhawks could choose to bring back Subban, he likely does not factor into the team’s long-term plans between the pipes, as his limited usage while in Chicago seems to indicate, meaning the organization needs to either acquire or develop its next big-time netminder.

The Blackhawks’ history of drafting goaltenders

Of course, some could point to the Blackhawks’ failure to draft and develop quality goaltending talent as a reason to pass on Askarov. Since selecting Crawford (and Mike Brodeur) in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Chicago has picked 12 goaltenders. Those 12 netminders have combined to make just one appearance in the NHL, as Kent Simpson played just 20 minutes in a 7–3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Dec. 14, 2013, allowing two goals on seven shots faced.

However, on the contrary, of those 12 goaltenders, only three were selected in the first three rounds of a draft, with Simpson being the only second-round selectee (the last of three second-round picks that year) and none being chosen in the first round. The overwhelming majority of those 12 goaltenders could be described as the Blackhawks taking a flier to see if they might become something down the road, an unlikely proposition regardless of position as the draft progresses.

All this to say, the Blackhawks have not invested a high-end draft pick in a goaltender since Crawford, as he was the last netminder selected with one of Chicago’s first three picks in a draft.

Another important thing to note is the quality of player a team would ideally be looking for with a top-10 pick. As The Rink’s own John Jaeckel has pointed out previously, with a top-10 pick, a team should likely be hoping it can acquire a No. 1 center, a No. 1 defenseman or a No. 1 goaltender, or at worst, a future first-line winger capable of producing at a high-end level. Of course, by being at the bottom of the top 10, the likelihood of getting a No. 1 center or defenseman is not as high as it would be with a lottery pick, despite this year’s draft class widely being considered to be fairly deep. The other “No. 1” category? Bingo.

Additionally, many would argue the best draft strategy is to select the best player available, and if that player fills a need, even better. The draft is a valuable tool to restock the cupboards and develop the next great wave of talent for an organization. A team should be selecting players that improve its situation, whatever that may look like, regardless of position, timeline or nationality.

However, with the tandem Chicago was icing in net prior to the stoppage of play pretty clearly not being the long-term answer between the pipes, a thorough analysis of other goaltenders within the organization is warranted before potentially using a first-round pick on a netminder.

In the system

The Blackhawks currently have three goaltenders under contract for next season in Collin Delia, Kevin Lankinen and Matt Tomkins, who split time with the Rockford IceHogs this season. While Delia and Lankinen could prove to be serviceable backups at the NHL level, neither is likely to develop into a legitimate top-end starting goaltender. Tomkins likely does not have much of a future in the NHL, at least not in Chicago, as he is rather comfortably the third-best option of that trio.

Two goaltenders currently hold a minor-league contract or a professional tryout agreement (PTO), as 24-year-old Tom Aubrun was signed out of Norwich University earlier this month while 2014 sixth-round pick Ivan Nalimov signed a PTO with the IceHogs in March just prior to the stoppage of play.

Though Aubrun, a native of Chamonix, France, has boasted impressive numbers thus far in his career, he is likely a wild card at this point, having spent the last four seasons playing at the NCAA DIII level for the Cadets. Aubrun took over the starting job as a junior in 2018–19, posting a 1.70 GAA and .929 save percentage in 28 games before dominating all season long as a senior with a GAA of 0.77 and a save percentage of .967 in 27 outings, highlighted by a remarkable nine-game shutout streak prior to the remainder of the team’s season being canceled.

While Aubrun’s gaudy numbers do warrant attention, he will need to prove himself at a higher level of play before being considered to be a legitimate NHL option down the road. Aubrun will likely spend the 2020–21 season with the Indy Fuel of the ECHL.

Nalimov has been an interesting case since being selected by the Blackhawks in 2014. The Russian has bounced around in his native land, playing for seven teams since the start of the 2016–17 season with mixed results. Though Nalimov does have raw talent, he appears to be a headcase, which likely does not bode well for a chance at NHL stardom, especially at this stage of his career.

Unsigned prospects

Chicago owns the rights to three additional goaltenders on its reserve list, as Dominic Basse, Alexis Gravel and Wouter Peeters all stand without a contract in hand.

After struggling in his first season in North America in the USHL during the 2017–18 season, Peeters has since spent the majority of his time back in Europe, where he will likely remain for the rest of his career. The native of Belgium appears to be nothing more than a failed use of a third-round pick in 2016.

Like Aubrun, Basse is very much an unknown wild card at this point in time. Though possessing raw ability, the 2019 sixth-rounder is also an unproven commodity. Basse will head to Colorado College next season.

At this time, Gravel is likely the goaltender within the Blackhawks’ system with the highest ceiling, having displayed his ability well over the last four seasons with the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. Though Gravel may have the potential to become a starting goaltender at the NHL level, that is far from a guarantee. Chicago will need to make up its mind on Gravel in the near future, as the organization will lose his rights on June 1 if he is not signed prior to then.

To summarize, while any one of the netminders currently within the organization could theoretically develop into a serviceable NHL option—after all, anything can happen, as some might claim—the likelihood any of them will become elite, Stanley Cup-worthy talents is extremely slim.

Other avenues for finding the goalie of the future

Of course, the Blackhawks could opt to sign a high-end free agent goaltender. But, by passing on bringing back Lehner, that route likely is not in the cards given the team did not want to spend the required money to do so after the big Swede fell into their lap last summer.

Chicago could also attempt to trade for a goaltender of the future, as it seemed they might have in March when rumors swirled of Russian prospect Ilya Sorokin’s rights heading to the Blackhawks. However, the price to acquire a young goaltender of that calibre in a trade would be high, and the organization has not successfully swung a deal for a goalie of the future since acquiring Jocelyn Thibault in 1998.

So, where does that leave the Blackhawks in terms of finding a long-term answer in the cage? How are the majority of elite goaltenders acquired? The NHL Entry Draft. Cue Askarov.

Why Askarov?

Askarov is widely considered to be the best goaltending prospect since Carey Price in 2005. What does that indicate? Askarov is viewed as a generational type of netminder. His draft stock is higher than other touted goaltenders over the last 15 years, including Andrei Vasilevskiy, Ilya Samsonov and Spencer Knight. In fact, since Price and Tuukka Rask were selected in 2005, just 13 goaltenders have been chosen in the first round, seven of which have been since 2010.

Over the last decade, more and more teams have seemingly decided drafting a goaltender in the first round may not be worth their pick. This philosophy is evidenced by the somewhat drastic change in the number of netminders selected in the first round in the last two decades, as 22 goaltenders were selected in the first round between 2000 and 2009 compared to just seven from 2010 to 2019.

Some may also be leery of the “Russian factor,” as Askarov could theoretically never come over to play in North America. However, in recent years, the likes of Vasilevskiy, Samsonov and Igor Shesterkin have decreased that concern by showing high-end Russian goaltenders can very well make and follow through with the commitment.

Despite all this, Askarov has been considered a slam-dunk first-round pick for this year, with many proclaiming him worthy of a top-10 selection. Again, this is because of Askarov’s obvious talent and his potential to legitimately become a franchise-altering goaltender and annual Vezina Trophy candidate.

Askarov has been nothing short of sensational in nearly every stop of his young career. He has dominated in international tournaments against his age group over the past three seasons and has only come back down to earth in an average showing at the 2020 World Junior Championships, where he posted a 2.71 GAA and a .877 save percentage in five appearances. But, Askarov still had an impressive 2019–20 campaign otherwise, highlighted by a gold medal in the Gretzky Hlinka Cup and a strong showing in his first-ever KHL game for SKA St. Petersburg, a 23-save performance in a 4–2 win.

The stars align

As noted earlier, with nothing of substantial quality looming in the netminder pipeline, now is the time for the Blackhawks to break the trend and finally invest a quality draft pick in a goaltender. By filling that hole, the organization can entirely focus on other gaps in the system, knowing arguably the biggest vacancy is taken care of. And, with the best goaltending prospect in the last 15 years potentially being on the board when General Manager Stan Bowman announces Chicago’s newest draftee, the timing could not be any better.

The post Why the Chicago Blackhawks need to draft Yaroslav Askarov appeared first on The Rink.

Sean Farrell
Games: 44
Goals: 15
Assists: 41

Scouting notes:
Sean Farrell is a playmaker. He does an excellent job of finding his teammates and generating offense. Farrell is a quick decision maker and shows a soft touch on his passes. Farrell shows the ability to make plays under pressure and protect the puck despite his smaller frame. He stretches the defense well with his passes and creates space for himself with his stick handling and patience. Farrell has very good hockey sense. He does not let his lack of size hurt him along the boards and in front of the net. One thing to pick on, Farrell can look to not be as selfish and shoot the puck more.

Projection: Late first round or early second round

Brendan Brisson
Games: 45
Goals: 24
Assists: 35

Scouting notes:
Brisson is always in a position to score goals. He finds the open spots in the defense with ease and holds off defenders in tight very well. Brisson supports his teammates and makes it easy for them. He goes hard to the net with a purpose and is a hard-nosed forward. When Brisson keeps his feet moving, he is a handful for defenders to contain, as he battles along the boards very well. With added strength, Brisson will be really difficult to contain. He plays with a ton of urgency in all three zones. Brisson possesses a good shot and nice touch and shows the ability to make plays at high speeds. His skating is excellent.

Projection: Late first round or early second round

Sam Colangelo
Games: 44
Goals: 28
Assists: 30

Scouting notes:
Colangelo can score from all over the ice. He shows an easy release on his shot and can get that shot off quickly and in tight, finishing second on the team with 28 goals. Colangelo has a nice release, but can also make plays with his positioning in deep and with his drive to the net. He skates hard with a drive in his stride. When playing at top speed, he can beat defenders wide. Colangelo is good on his edges and does a nice job of missing defenders with his shiftiness and deception. He transitions quickly from the defensive zone. Colangelo plays with good positioning and an active stick in his own zone. His hockey sense is off the charts.

Projection: Late first round or early second round

Luke Reid
Games: 45
Goals: 2
Assists: 17

Scouting notes:
Reid is a smart, resourceful defender. He has a simple approach to his game. He supports his defensive partner well. Reid seems to always be in a good position and makes simple plays to move pucks out of his zone. Reid has a nose for the puck in his own zone. His determination is excellent along the boards and wants to win battles. He is a smooth skater, but with some development can really take his skating to another level. Reid could be a sneaky shutdown defender at the next level with that added skating. He played against top weapons in the USHL and handled them well. Reid also shows a willingness to play a physical style.

Projection: Mid-round pick

Mathieu De St. Phalle
Games: 49
Goals: 30
Assists: 30

Scouting notes:
De St. Phalle led the Steel with 30 goals as an over-ager for the NHL Entry Draft. He is active in the offensive zone and can find holes in the defense and make them pay with his shot. De St. Phalle has a nose for open spaces on the power play and is very active knowing he can score different ways. He pushes play with his skates. He also owns willingness to use his teammates and find the open play. De St. Phalle knows he will be getting the puck back. With the puck on his stick, he keeps eyes up and makes quick, decisive plays. De St. Phalle was used in all situations and is an active penalty killer. He has a willingness to block shots and reacts well defensively with hustle and a never-quit attitude. De St. Phalle will not be just a goal scorer at the next level.

Projection: Mid-round pick

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine
Games: 45
Goals: 26
Assists: 31

Scouting notes:
Fontaine plays with an obvious confidence. He looks to make plays with his top-end speed. He can get a shot off quickly and has accuracy. Fontaine seems to always be around the puck and making plays. Fontaine has his head on a swivel and shows a knack for making simple plays with his line mates. He does not slow down through the neutral zone. When his feet are moving, he is tough to stop offensively. Fontaine is another over-ager for the NHL Entry Draft.

Projection: Mid to late-round pick

Victor Ostman
Games: 30
Save percentage: .913
Goals against average: 2.34

Scouting notes:
The Swedish goaltender uses his 6-foot-3 frame economically and positions himself well. Ostman shows the ability to make saves without any extra effort, but is also highly athletic. His athleticism may be underrated because he makes it look too easy. He moves well laterally, but can get out too far and get lost in traffic on cross ice passes. Ostman is strong on his pads and hard to knock around. He secures the lower half of the ice with strength and battles to see pucks through traffic. Ostman shows a compete level that NHL teams look for in a goaltender.

Projection: Mid to late-round pick

Jimmy Dowd
Games: 48
Goals: 4
Assists: 22

Scouting notes:
Dowd is an effective defenseman. He plays a simple game in all three zones. He is the type of defenseman you do not notice until you watch the game film, then you see his overall impact. Dowd plays with good hockey sense and creates separation from his defenders with smooth stick handling. He is locked in defensively in his own zone and plays a solid positional game. His stick always seems to be in passing lanes. Dowd wants his team to win and will do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Projection: Late-round pick

The post Scouting the Chicago Steel: 2020 NHL Entry Draft prospects appeared first on The Rink.

If you have not checked out previous videos please take a look:

Highlight video of Victor Ejdsell
Highlight video of Dominik Kahun
Highlight video of Lucas Carlsson
Highlight video of Jacob Nilsson
Highlight video of Kevin Lankinen
Highlight video of Adam Boqvist

In the second video this spring, feature writer Jeff Osborn worked long and hard to bring you a highlight video of one of the Blackhawks’ top forward prospects, Dominik Kubalik.

The 6-foot-2, 187-pound Czech-born left wing had a breakout year in the the Swiss National League with HC Ambrì-Piotta (25 goals, 32 assists) in 50 games, where he was also the team’s top scorer. He continued his success in the Swiss Cup playoffs, scoring five points (four goals, one assist) in three games. He also played in the 2019 IIHF World Championships, scoring 12 points (six goals, six assists) in 10 games. On January 24, 2019, Kubalik’s rights were acquired by the Blackhawks from the Los Angeles Kings for a fifth-round pick in the 2019 NHL entry draft.

EDIT – On 5/29, The Blackhawks announced they had officially signed Kubalik to a one-year $925,000 entry level contract

Please enjoy our highlight reel, share with your friends on social media and feel free to let us know if you enjoy this kind of content.

You can find all of our video material or our exclusive YouTube channel.  Please subscribe to be notified as each of our new videos are released.

The post Chicago Blackhawks prospect spotlight: Dominik Kubalik (VIDEO) appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” are joined by staff writer Ray Napientek to chat about the few things abuzz in Blackhawks speculation.

• Blackhawks potential suitors for Ilya Mikheyev
• Kris Versteeg returns to Rockford
• Derek King named Rockford head coach
• Mark Eaton discussed Hawks defensive prospects
• Just what IF the Blackhawks draft Bowen Byram?
• Kane officially a nominee for Ted Lindsay Award
• Don Granato and the Blackhawks mutually part ways
• A little Chicago Steel talk at the end
• We answer some listener and reader questions

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

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The post Blackhawks Rinkcast – Episode 52 – School’s out for Summer appeared first on The Rink.

If you have not checked out last year’s videos please take a look:
Highlight video of Victor Ejdsell
Highlight video of Dominik Kahun
Highlight video of Lucas Carlsson
Highlight video of Jacob Nilsson
Highlight video of Kevin Lankinen

To kick this year off, feature writer Jeff Osborn worked long and hard to bring you a highlight video of Blackhawks top prospect Adam Boqvist.

The 6-foot, 180-pound Swedish defenseman had a really exceptional year in the OHL, with the London Knights (20 goals, 40 assists) in 54 games. He was signed by the Blackhawks last July after they selected him eighth overall in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. The intention was to keep a closer eye on his development in North America as opposed to Sweden.

Please enjoy our highlight reel, share with your friends on social media and feel free to let us know if you enjoy this kind of content.

You can find all of our video material or our exclusive YouTube channel.  Please subscribe to be notified as each of our new videos are released.

The post Chicago Blackhawks prospect spotlight – Adam Boqvist (VIDEO) appeared first on The Rink.

The Colorado Avalanche, via the Ottawa Senators, came into the event with the best chance to take the first overall prize of U.S. National Development Program center Jack Hughes or big Finnish wing Kaapo Kakko thanks to last season’s trade of Matt Duchene. Duchene has been since traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both Columbus and Colorado qualified for the playoffs, while Ottawa decided to keep last year’s first round pick and took big power forward Brady Tkachuk, who had himself a solid 45-point (22 goals, 23 assists) rookie season.

Once the ping-pong balls dropped and the final lineup was announced, the Blackhawks moved all the way up to third overall. This will prove to be a very important draft year for the future of this team. The New Jersey Devils will pick first overall and the New York Rangers will pick second overall.

pic.twitter.com/0xiRKWOVu6

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 10, 2019

Last season, the Blackhawks came into the 2018 NHL Draft Lottery as the seventh overall pick and left the building with the eighth overall selection. The story played out very well and they were able to select Swedish phenom Adam Boqvist with their pick.

When you already know that the NHL rigged the draft lottery for you #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/dKYp8Liyrm

— Aaron Goldschmidt (@lateinthegoldie) April 10, 2019

The post BREAKING: Blackhawks to pick third overall in the NHL Entry Draft appeared first on The Rink.

Finally is the Blackhawks’ seventh round choice, left wing Josiah Slavin.

Josiah Slavin
2017–18 Team: Lincoln (USHL)
Date of Birth: December 31, 1998
Place of Birth: Erie, Colorado
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 189 lbs
Shoots: Left
Position: LW

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: Not Ranked
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: Not Ranked

NHL Comparable: Josh Archibald

Overlooked last year in his first year of draft eligibility, Slavin had a bounce back season this year with the Lincoln Stars in the United States Hockey League.

Slavin began his career in the USHL playing for the Tri-City Storm in 2016–17. In a limited role, Slavin posted six goals and seven assists in 49 games. Slavin started this season well, recording a goal and an assist over the first three games of the season. On Oct. 4, Slavin was traded to Lincoln, where he was given a larger role. He made the most of the opportunity, tallying 23 goals and 19 assists in 60 games for the Stars to become Lincoln’s second-highest point producer.

While not an elite talent, Slavin pairs good skill with a high work ethic to be effective. Perhaps his best offensive weapon is his wrist shot, which he gets off quickly with good power and accuracy. Slavin’s 23 goals led Lincoln this season. Slavin enjoys using his big frame to get to the front of the net, and with good hands, Slavin can put away rebound opportunities effectively.

Slavin is a tireless skater who shows a lot of effort on the ice. He has decent speed and can get up and down the ice well. Though not high-end, Slavin’s skating is workable and should be able to get to a pro level.

Unquestionably, though, is Slavin’s best trait: his character. He is very much a team-first player. Slavin has a very good attitude and works as hard as anybody. This selflessness and work ethic make Slavin a natural leader. On Wednesday, June 20, the Stars announced Slavin would be the team’s captain next season. Slavin and his older brother, Jaccob, who plays for the Carolina Hurricanes, regularly express their devout Christian faith and point to it as their strength and source of success as hockey players and as people.

Both Slavins are products of the Colorado Thunderbirds, a youth program in Colorado that has churned out many quality players over the years, including Seth Jones, Brandon Carlo, Troy Terry and Nick Shore.

Implications for the Blackhawks
It is hard to go wrong with taking a player in the last round with some skill, good work ethic and leadership abilities. If Slavin pans out and can become an NHL player, great. If not, he can at least serve as a good influence to other prospects in the system.

Timeline
Slavin will return to Lincoln for one more season. He will then attend Colorado College, where he will likely spend at least three years. After college, he would likely need a year or two in the minors to prepare for the NHL. If Slavin makes it to the game’s highest level, it likely would not be until at least 2023–24.

Projection
If Slavin follows in his brother’s footsteps of making it to the NHL, it would likely not be anything more than a fourth line role. But, with the good head on his shoulders and work ethic, he could become a reliable depth player coaches love.

What others are saying
“Josiah is an impressive young man with all of the necessary qualities to be a great leader. He has been an incredible ambassador of the Stars organization during his time in Lincoln. We look forward to working with him, along with the rest of our leadership group, to continue to drive the culture of the Lincoln Stars.”
— Cody Chupp/Lincoln Stars Head Coach

“We like the project there. We think where he is on the curve, he’s gonna play another year and then go to Colorado College. We just like the whole project.”
— Mark Kelley/Chicago Blackhawks VP of Amateur Scouting

The post Draft Pick Profile: Josiah Slavin appeared first on The Rink.

Next is the Blackhawks’ sixth round choice, goaltender Alexis Gravel.

Alexis Gravel
2017–18 Team: Halifax (QMJHL)
Date of Birth: March 21, 2000
Place of Birth: Berlin, Germany
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 222 lbs
Catches: Full-Right
Position: G

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: 3 (North American Goaltenders)
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: 1 (North American Goaltenders)

NHL Comparable: Devan Dubnyk

Gravel is a big, right-handed goaltender who has spent the last two seasons playing for the Halifax Mooseheads in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Gravel has been highly touted at points over the last couple of years and has at times looked fantastic. However, he has struggled with consistency and with his development, which led to some questions about his potential and therefore his draft stock.

The first thing that stands out about Gravel is his huge frame. At 18 years old, he is already 6’3” and weighs 222 pounds. This size helps him cover a lot of the net, a big plus for goaltenders. It seems that, more and more, successful upcoming goaltenders have larger frames like Gravel’s, so this is certainly a trait in his favor.

Gravel has good quickness, especially given his size. He is an athletic goaltender who has good reactions. Gravel is a good skater and can challenge shooters well, with the ability to move back in his net and a shooter gets closer to shut down deke opportunities. Gravel is a butterfly goalie and his quickness allows him to speedily get into his butterfly position.

Given his size, Gravel has pretty good strength, especially in his legs. His powerful legs allow him to react to bang-bang plays. Gravel is a battler and holds his own in net-front scrambles and goal line stands. He fights hard to track pucks through traffic and never quits on a play gone wrong. Gravel is highly competitive, which helps him make saves when things get hectic.

Gravel’s glove is one of his biggest strengths, as he can quickly flash it to make a big save. He is good at keeping it up in a ready position. Gravel is able to control rebounds better than most at his level, which will help him in his development.

Positioning is another strength for Gravel. He is very good at staying square to shooters, which, in addition to his size, helps him cut down angles. Gravel’s quickness helps him recover and stay square to shooters on rebound opportunities as well.

However, there are some issues Gravel will need to fix before he is ready to play at the NHL level. His lateral mobility leaves a lot to be desired. As a result, he can get beaten if the puck is moving across the ice quickly or if there is a quick, cross-crease pass. He does not handle the puck particularly well, and as such, often chooses to stay in his goal instead of playing the puck. Gravel can also work on his mental strength, as he has the tendency to ruminate on bad goals and let them affect his play. There is also some concern about his stick positioning, as he can sometimes leave his five hole exposed.

Gravel is a second-generation goaltender, as his father, Francois, played professionally for over a decade and represented France at the 1998 Olympics. The elder Gravel was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1987 but never made it to the NHL.

Implications for the Blackhawks
Gravel was a nice pick up for the Hawks, especially in the sixth round. With as many goalies picked early on day two, it was a little surprising to see Gravel fall to the sixth round, given he was ranked as the third-best North American goalie by NHL Central Scouting. As such, the Blackhawks may have lucked out. Gravel will need a long time to reach his potential, similar to Corey Crawford, who was drafted in 2003 but did not play regularly with Chicago until 2010–11. The Hawks have not drafted a goalie recently with nice upside, so taking Gravel could be a nice addition to the organization once he develops.

Timeline
Gravel is categorized as a project because of the aspects of his game he needs to work on. While having decent potential, he will take longer than other goalies to reach it. Gravel will return to Halifax this season and will likely spend another year or two there before turning pro, where he would likely spend a few years in the minors before being a legitimate option at the NHL level. Gravel likely will not be ready for regular NHL action until at least 2022–23 or 2023–24.

Projection
Gravel has the size and quickness needed to be a good goaltender at the NHL level. Whether he could become a reliable starter remains to be seen, but with proper development, Gravel should be a decent NHL backup at the least.

What others are saying
“At 6’3” and 220 pounds, Gravel already has the frame needed to be a pro goaltender. Gravel is a strong skater. He can get out of his crease to cut down angles, making full use of his frame and giving shooters little to look at. Gravel can back up quickly, taking away the ability to deke him. He also tracks pucks well but could stand to work on his lateral push. Gravel sometimes looks awkward when moving side-to-side. He also needs to adjust his stick position and close off the five hole. These adjustments would really help his game. He gets into and out of the butterfly quickly. Gravel has strong, quick legs that take away the bottom of the net. His glove hand is also particularly strong.”
— Ben Kerr/Last Word on Hockey

“Alexis is a guy we think has a lot of potential. And with goalies you have to be patient with them, they take a little bit longer (to develop). But he’s got a lot of ability, he’s got the size to be an NHL goalie, and I think that’s part of it. We’re happy that he was there and we were able to get him.”
— Stan Bowman/Chicago Blackhawks General Manager

Gravel’s draft-day interview can be viewed below:
https://www.nhl.com/blackhawks/video/alexis-gravel-on-being-drafted/t-298273022/c-60673103

The post Draft Pick Profile: Alexis Gravel appeared first on The Rink.

Next is the Blackhawks’ fifth round choice, center Mikael Hakkarainen.

Mikael Hakkarainen
2017–18 Team: Muskegon (USHL)
Date of Birth: January 26, 1998
Place of Birth: Helsinki, Finland
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 193 lbs
Shoots: Left
Position: C

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: 179
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: Not ranked

NHL Comparable: Frans Nielsen

Mikkael Hakkarainen is an overage center who spent this season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the United States Hockey League. As a 20 year old, Hakkarainen used his skill set to control play in many areas of the game.

Hakkarainen is a good skater with nice speed and acceleration. He has good hustle and likes being around the puck. His agility allows him to weave across the ice with the puck and make quick directional changes. Hakkarainen displays his effort through his skating. He seems to always be moving, even through checking and pressure along the boards.

Hakkarainen possesses a good shot marked by its accuracy and quick release. His wrist shot and snapshot are definitely his best shots, and he could probably stand to use them more often.

Hakkarainen is a gifted playmaker with good vision and hands. He is able to make nice passes without forcing it. Hakkarainen is a creative and unselfish player.

Hakkarainen is reliable in all three zones, as he has good hockey smarts and awareness. He is able to shut down the opposition in his own end and can transition the play to offense well with his good passing skills. Hakkarainen is also excellent at taking face offs.

Despite having some concussion issues at the beginning of the season, Hakkarainen returned mid-season and lit it up offensively for Muskegon, registering 46 points in 36 games this season. By the end of the season, Hakkarainen had established himself as a dominant force in the USHL.

Overall, Hakkarainen was a late-bloomer and is still a bit of a project, but he has some tools needed to be a reliable NHL player, albeit with limited long-term upside.

Implications for the Blackhawks
Hakkarainen adds some depth to the Blackhawks’ lacking center prospect pool. While he has been a successful player at the USHL level, the offensive production would likely not translate to the NHL. However, thanks to Hakkarainen’s sound all-around game, he could develop into a reliable bottom-six player for the Hawks in the future. His ability at the dot is also something the Blackhawks are lacking.

Timeline
Hakkarainen is committed to attend Providence College in the fall, where he will likely spend at least two or three years before turning pro, where he would then likely spend a year or two developing in Rockford. If Hakkarainen makes the jump to the NHL, it likely would not be until at least 2021–22 or 2022–23.

Projection
If he makes it to the NHL, Hakkarainen would slot in as a bottom-six skater. He has proven to be good defensively and has enough playmaking ability to contribute some offensively. Despite posting good offensive numbers this season in the USHL, Hakkarainen will likely not be relied upon as a scorer at the NHL level, but could be a player capable of being a low-end two-way center.

What others are saying
“Hakkarainen was extremely solid in this game. He was a constant threat playing really quick and effective passing game creating many scoring opportunities and having some himself. He read the play extremely well being in the right place at the right time. The forward is a good stick-handler but he doesn’t make unnecessary dangles. His speed, agility and acceleration were impressive for this level of play. Even though he didn’t show much grit, he seemed physically more mature than most of the other players. He took care of his defensive responsibilities well too.”
— Asko Huuki/Finn Prospects

“I think what attracted us to him was, when you went and saw him play, he got on the scoresheet but even if he wasn’t on the scoresheet you noticed him play. He played hard. 200-foot.”
— Mark Kelley/Chicago Blackhawks VP of Amateur Scouting

The post Draft Pick Profile: Mikael Hakkarainen appeared first on The Rink.

Next is the Blackhawks’ fourth round choice, center Philipp Kurashev.

Philipp Kurashev
2017–18 Team: Quebec (QMJHL)
Date of Birth: October 12, 1999
Place of Birth: Munsingen, Switzerland
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 190 lbs
Shoots: Left
Position: C

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: 61
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: 68

NHL Comparable: Evgeny Kuznetsov

Philipp Kurashev is a skilled Swiss-born center playing for the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Kurashev possesses high-end offensive skills, which he displayed this season, tallying 60 points in 59 games.

One of Kurashev’s biggest strengths is his skating ability. He has very good speed, which he can get to quickly with excellent acceleration. Kurashev uses his edges very well, having the ability to cut quickly to the middle of the ice for scoring chances. Kurashev knows how to use his powerful skating well, as he often skates through checks to create offense. He has strong legs, making him very tough to knock off the puck.

Kurashev has a nice shot featuring a very good release. He can really get the puck on net in a hurry. Kurashev’s shot has good accuracy and decent power as well. He is comfortable shooting the puck in all situations and is not afraid to use any of his shots. Kurashev is good at getting pucks through to the net in traffic, which can often create rebound opportunities for teammates.

Another of Kurashev’s strengths is his vision and passing ability. Kurashev seems to always know where his teammates are and can find them and get the puck to them in a heartbeat. He is able to make difficult passes look easy. Kurashev enjoys combining his skating and playmaking abilities. He regularly uses his feet to create space and draw defenders to him before making a tape-to-tape pass or a nice area pass for a teammate to skate into. Kurashev’s playmaking ability also helps him be highly effective on the power play as a distributor. Kurashev is also really good in the cycle because of his ability to make plays while moving his feet.

Kurashev is a bit of a hit-or-miss player in the defensive end. He uses his skating well to cover ice and support his defensemen. He is comfortable in board battles and clearing the front of the net, and his decently sized body helps him do so effectively. His skating and play making help him transition play from defense to offense quickly. However, his positioning and awareness can be an issue. He can sometimes be too focused on the puck and lose track of his man or his positioning. But, with proper coaching, this should be able to be rectified.

The biggest knock on Kurashev is his lack of consistency. Kurashev is a game-changing player in some games but is non-existent in others. He has loads of offensive talent, but often does not use it enough to be a constant threat.

Implications for the Blackhawks
Kurashev is another high-risk, high-reward prospect for the Hawks. If he can figure out his consistency issues and improve in the defensive end, he could be a nice NHL center option, likely in a middle-six role, though his game fits a top-six role better. While not overly large, Kurashev should still fill out his body enough to have adequate size to play his style, a style the Blackhawks do not really have right now. If he pans out, he could be a steal and give the Hawks added depth.

Timeline
Kurashev will likely still need at least a couple of years before turning pro to really figure out his game. He would likely benefit from a year in Rockford as well. If he ever gets to the NHL, it would likely not be until at least 2021–22.

Projection
Kurashev has the raw talent to be a dynamic forward, similar to someone like Evgeny Kuznetsov. But, with his consistency issues, it is possible, if not likely, he would not reach that high of a level. If Kurashev can pull it together, he could be a serviceable middle-six center in the NHL with some nice offensive upside. He could prove to be one of the steals of the draft if he is able to round out his game and translate it consistently at the NHL level.

What others are saying
“Kurashev is a dynamic skater. He is lightning quick, with a great first step, top-notch acceleration, and incredible top speed. He can blow by the defence, creating breakaways and odd-man rushes in transition. Kurashev can also take a defender wide and cut to the net. He is agile, with the ability to make quick cuts and weave in and out of traffic. Kurashev has a powerful stride and good balance. He is tough to knock off the puck and can make plays off the cycle as well. … Kurashev has good vision and can play the role of playmaker. He uses his quickness and ability to make quick cuts to open up passing lanes and find teammates. He can control the puck on the half boards on the powerplay and look to set up a scoring chance. Kurashev has the poise and patience to extend plays an wait for a teammate to get open.”
— Ben Kerr/Last Word on Hockey

“Kurashev is a good all-around player who wants to get involved in the play any way he can…strong playmaking abilities with excellent creativity and vision…quickly finds open lanes to get through and when he has multiple options, he typically always tries to connect with a teammate rather than fire a shot on net himself…needs to shoot more as he has a dangerous release…his explosive first steps allowed him to reach his top speed quickly…gives his opposition fits as he is dangerous on zone entries with his quickness and creative puck skills…electrifying hands make him dangerous to score anywhere around the opponents net…at times can force pucks and create turnovers by trying to be too careless with his passes…defensively, he can play a crucial role…follows his player tightly, and is engaged into puck battles deep in the zone…also provides an outlet for his defenseman to hit on the breakout…has to improve on his face-offs quite a bit if he wants to become an NHL center, but he does display top-six potential at the NHL level.”
— Aaron Vickers/Future Considerations

The post Draft Pick Profile: Philipp Kurashev appeared first on The Rink.

Next is the Blackhawks’ second third round choice, right wing Niklas Nordgren.

Niklas Nordgren
2017–18 Team: HIFK Jr. (Finland)
Date of Birth: May 4, 2000
Place of Birth: Helsinki, Finland
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 169 lbs
Shoots: Right
Position: RW

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: 21 (European Skaters)
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: 19 (European Skaters)

NHL Comparable: Alex DeBrincat

Niklas Nordgren is a high-end offensive right wing from Finland playing for the HIFK Junior team. Nordgren dominated at the junior level and impressed in limited Champions Hockey League action with the main HIFK squad, marking four goals and two assists in two games. Nordgren was also excellent for Finland in the U-18 World Junior Championship, tallying eight goals and two assists in 10 tournament games en route to a gold medal.

Nordgren boasts a top-notch shot with a fantastic release. He has the ability to change the appearance of his release, which throws off goaltenders. While his wrist shot is definitely his main weapon, his snapshot, slap shot, one-timer and backhand are all good as well. He is a threat to score with all of them.

While having a high-end shot, Nordgren is a good playmaker as well. He has good hands and vision, which allow him to be a very good passer. Nordgren is able to locate his teammates and get the puck to them. He has surgeon-like ability to thread slick passes through tight gaps. Nordgren’s patience with the puck allows him to create space as plays develop, which he can either turn into a scoring chance for himself or distribute the puck to his teammates.

Nordgren is a very reliable player defensively. He regularly kills penalties because of his hockey sense and ability to break up passing lanes with his stick. He supports his defenders well and does not mind coming deep into his zone to do so. He takes pride in playing sound defense and clearly works hard defensively, as he is a good backchecker.

The big knock on Nordgren is his skating. He does not have top-end speed and lacks good acceleration. Improving his skating is paramount for him to become an NHL player.

Implications for the Blackhawks
Nordgren seems to be a high-risk, high-reward type of player. He has loads of offensive skill, enough to potentially contribute in the Hawks’ top six. But, if he cannot drastically improve his skating, he will not get to that level. He has a similar high-end offensive game as Alex DeBrincat, but does not skate as well as DeBrincat. Nordgren could prove to be a fantastic pickup for the Blackhawks if he can get his skating up to par.

Timeline
Nordgren will definitely need at least a couple of years before having a shot at coming to the NHL. He needs to add muscle, as he has a very small frame at just 5’9” and 169 pounds. But again, the skating ability is the big issue. Playing in the top Finnish league should help get him to a workable level.

Projection
Nordgren oozes the offensive ability needed to be a top-six winger in the NHL, but his skating very well could keep him from getting there. He is very much a boom-or-bust type of pick, as he will either pay big dividends or will not contribute at the NHL level at all. Time will tell.

What others are saying
“Nordgren has a ton of offensive skill. He has an excellent wrist shot, with a very quick release. It is both powerful and accurate. He can fool goaltenders by varying that release. Nordgren also has a good snapshot and strong one-timer. He can even score with his backhand. Nordgren has good hockey sense. He finds soft spots in the defence, getting himself open for scoring opportunities. Despite his size, Nordgren is willing to go to the net. When he gets there, he is able to get deflections and can score on rebounds.”
— Ben Kerr/Last Word on Hockey

“Niklas Nordgren had a great start to his professional career when he scored three goals on his professional debut in a Champions Hockey League game. He hasn’t had the same kind of success in Liiga but his offensive production in the Finnish junior league has been amazing. Nordgren is a very talented offensive winger who works hard and understands his defensive responsibilities so that he’s not a liability defensively. He seems to be more of a playmaker than a goal-scorer but also has an excellent wrist shot.”
— Jokke Nevalainen/Dobber Prospects

The post Draft Pick Profile: Niklas Nordgren appeared first on The Rink.

First up is the Blackhawks’ first third round choice, center Jake Wise.

Jake Wise
2017–18 Team: USA U-18 National Team Development Program (NTDP)
Date of Birth: February 28, 2000
Place of Birth: Naples, FL
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 195 lbs
Shoots: Left
Position: C

NHL Central Scouting Final Ranking: 38
NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking: Not Ranked

NHL Comparable: Travis Konecny

Once considered to be a potential top-10 draft pick, Jake Wise’s draft stock entered free fall after an average 2016–17 season and an injury to start this season. However, with a lights-out second half of the season, Wise re-established himself as a worthy prospect.

By the time June rolled around, some analysts believed Wise could sneak into the first round because of his strong late-season performance. Slotting in as the second line center on an absolutely loaded USNTDP U-18 team, Wise was able to slide under the radar a bit to find his game again. Wise managed to tally 43 points in 38 games this season.

Wise is a good skater. He has good speed and acceleration. One of his biggest skating strengths is his ability to change speed quickly and effectively thanks to his quick feet and high-end edgework. This ability allows him to excel in one-on-one situations, as he keeps defensemen guessing on what he will do. He can open up passing and shooting lanes with his feet for himself and his teammates, another valuable trait.

Wise possesses high-end hands. His stickhandling ability is excellent and he is very comfortable with the puck on his stick. Wise is capable of combining his hands and skating to beat defenders on the rush, but does not mind being patient to set up developing plays.

Wise has good vision, allowing him to be an effective passer. He reads plays well and recognizes the best places to get the puck to his teammates. Wise is able to make pinpoint passes, but does not force high-risk passes. His hockey sense and smarts are high-end, which helps him make the best decisions with the puck.

While not an elite shooter, his shot features a quick release and good accuracy, though not overly powerful. However, Wise is generally a pass-first type of player, as is evidenced by the 32 assists he registered this season. With his high-end release, he could stand to shoot the puck more, which would make him a more dangerous threat offensively.

Wise is responsible defensively and exudes good effort in his own end. He takes pride in his backchecking and does well supporting his defensemen. His smarts allow him to effectively recognize threats and adjust accordingly. He needs to add strength to help clearing the front of the net.

Implications for the Blackhawks
Many expected the Hawks to take a forward with at least one of their first round picks, so being able to grab a center some thought had first round potential with their first third round selection was a great get for the team. He should give the Blackhawks some added reliable depth at the center position, though not for a few more years.

Timeline
Wise is headed to Boston University next season, where he will likely spend at least a couple of years. The earliest Wise could conceivably take the United Center ice would likely be 2020–21.

Projection
Wise has the ability to become a middle-six centerman. While he likely doesn’t have a ton of high-end offensive upside, he should become a serviceable two-way player who is good in his own end and can contribute offensively.

What others are saying
“Top-end playmaker with superior vision and hockey sense who is the power play architect for Team USA’s under-18 team. Wise has excellent hand-eye coordination and razor sharp awareness, and he’ll rarely make a mistake when opponents giftwrap a scoring chance. He also possesses a highly-accurate shot that seems to give goalies a hard time.”
— Steve Kournianos/The Draft Analyst

“Wise is an incredibly intelligent player with the ability to read and react to the play developing around him. He was an offensive catalyst for Team USA, providing them with a combination of goal scoring and playmaking ability. He works extremely hard with or without the puck, and is always looking to generate a scoring chance. Wise does a lot of the little things right.”
— Future Considerations

The post Draft Pick Profile: Jake Wise appeared first on The Rink.

3rd round
69th pick: Jake Wise, C, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)
Some felt Wise had the potential to sneak into the first round. The fact the Blackhawks were able to grab him in the third round is great value.
74th pick: Niklas Nordgren, RW, HIFK Jr. (Finland)
The Hawks clearly like Nordgren, as they traded up to take the talented winger. He dominated this year in the Finnish junior league and played well on the international stage as well.

4th round
120th pick: Philipp Kurashev, C, Quebec (QMJHL)
Kurashev, a Swiss-born player, was a point-per-game player for the Remparts this season. He has excellent skating and good skill. Many view him as a high-risk, high-reward prospect.

5th round
139th pick: Mikael Hakkarainen, C, Muskegon (USHL)
Hakkarainen is a Finnish center who has spent the last couple of seasons playing in the United States in the USHL. He spent part of the 2016–17 season playing for the Chicago Steel.

6th round
162nd pick: Alexis Gravel, G, Halifax (QMJHL)
Gravel entered the season regarded as one of the best goaltender prospects in this year’s draft class. He has a sound technical foundation and could prove to be a valuable pick.

7th round
193rd pick: Josiah Slavin, LW, Lincoln (USHL)
The younger brother of Carolina Hurricanes rising star defenseman Jaccob Slavin, Josiah was passed over in last year’s draft. Slavin posted 42 points this season for the Lincoln Stars, a big uptick from his 14 points in 2016–17. Slavin has high character; the Stars recently named Slavin as their captain for next season.

Takeaways
The Blackhawks clearly established a trend with this draft: small, skilled players who can skate. With Slavin being the only skater above six feet tall, the Blackhawks did not appear to care about size. Additionally, the team appeared to have been willing to swing for the fences, as players like Boqvist and Kurashev are noted as being boom-or-bust prospects.

Though not yet formally announced, it is expected all of the Blackhawks’ draftees will be in attendance at the team’s upcoming prospect camp, likely to be held in mid-July.

The Rink’s full draft pick profiles on today’s picks will be available throughout the upcoming week.

The post Blackhawks NHL Draft Day 2 Recap appeared first on The Rink.

Though not necessarily being viewed as a consensus first round pick by most, the Blackhawks were very high on Beaudin and were excited to be able to add him to the organization because of his high-end playmaking style.

Beaudin is the type of defenseman the Blackhawks crave. He is a very smart player with outstanding vision and offensive ability, specifically the ability to get the puck to his forwards. Beaudin is also capable of quarterbacking his team’s power play, something he did well with Drummondville this season.

While having decent mobility, skating is certainly an area Beaudin will need to improve to get to the NHL. He has decent speed and agility, but does not have the best acceleration. He can also improve his footspeed in regard to backwards skating, as he can be beat on the outside. However, Beaudin does possess a pretty solid foundation, which helps him stay balanced when clearing the front of the net and battling along the boards for pucks.

Beaudin possesses a pretty good shot. His slap shot is not overly powerful, but he does a good job getting it through traffic to create scoring chances. His wrist shot is probably his best shot, with good power and accuracy and a quick release.

However, the crown jewel of Beaudin’s game is definitely his vision and passing ability. He has a knack for finding teammates and making good decisions with the puck. Beaudin’s good hands allow him to complete difficult passes. Beaudin is very comfortable with the puck on his stick and enjoys bringing attention to himself so he can find an open teammate. Beaudin can also push the pace with long stretch passes. His high-end playmaking ability is evidenced by the 57 assists he registered in 68 games in the regular season and eight more assists in 10 playoff games.

Beaudin’s defensive game is still a work in progress, though he showed signs of growth this season. His awareness and hockey sense really helps him out and helps make up for his deficiencies, such as his relatively small frame, being just 5’11” and 175 pounds.

Beaudin will definitely need at least a couple more years of development before being able to crack the Blackhawks lineup, but in time he should prove to be a nice piece on the Hawks’ blueline.

Implications for the Blackhawks
The Blackhawks are set up nicely for the future on the right side of their defense with 2018 #8 overall selection Adam Boqvist and 2017 draftees Henri Jokiharju and Ian Mitchell. Being left-handed, Beaudin gives the Blackhawks a nice piece to develop. He has the potential to be a power play quarterback and slot in as a second-pairing defenseman down the road.

What others are saying
“Beaudin is a very good stick handler and passer. He plays the role of power play quarterback, setting up teammates, and being creative at the blue line. He is very smart and anticipates the play, spotting open teammates and hitting them with tape-to-tape passes through tight openings. Beaudin is also very good on the rush. He protects the puck well and can skate the puck out of tight situations. He also is willing to rush the puck up the ice. Beaudin’s vision helps him to make a strong first pass, and to start the transition game for the Voltigeurs.”
— Ben Kerr/Last Word on Hockey

“He’s got great vision. (His) hockey sense (is) off the chart. (He) reads the play really well. He’s ahead of the play, he sees it coming. He’s becoming a complete defenseman also. His defending is really getting better and better. He takes pride in it. He can be playing against the best players on the other side and also bringing a lot of offense. (He is) a solid player and a transition guy that can move well with great vision.”
— Dom Ducharme/Drummondville Voltigeurs Head Coach

The post Blackhawks select Nicolas Beaudin appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks were thrilled to get Boqvist, as they likely were very surprised he was still available. The Hawks were expected to select right wing Oliver Wahlstrom, but with Boqvist available, Chicago likely could not pass up the chance to grab the high-end defenseman.

An elite offensive defenseman, Boqvist prides himself on his top-notch skating ability. Boqvist has the ability to break games open with his feet and is an effortless skater. He is very slippery and difficult for defenders to contain.

Boqvist is an excellent passer with great vision. He is a top-notch playmaker and can make high-difficulty passes look easy. Boqvist also possesses a good shot, with great accuracy and a high-end release. Boqvist has an uncanny ability to create shooting lanes for himself with his feet.

Though still a few years away from being ready for the NHL, Boqvist has the potential to be a franchise defenseman, an exciting thought for the future of the Blackhawks’ blueline. Hawks fans should get their first look at Boqvist during the upcoming Blackhawks Prospect Camp, expected to be help in mid-July.

Looking back to our draft prospect profile on Boqvist, he should be a good fit for the Hawks:

Implications for the Blackhawks
With as much elite offensive potential as Boqvist has, he very well may be off the board by the time the Hawks are picking at eighth. But, if he is still available, he could be an excellent choice to be a blueline building block for the future. A one-two punch of Boqvist and Jokiharju on the right side of the defense would be simply amazing. The Blackhawks really do not have a top-pairing right-handed defenseman right now, so they could do worse than drafting Boqvist to develop into that spot, especially considering the rapid decline of Brent Seabrook.

What others are saying
“A dynamic offensive defenceman that can carry plays with the puck on his stick. A highly mobile and nimble skater that moves with fluidity, balance, and confidence. Utilizes an active stick and creates turnovers frequently. Could be more proactive in his own end, but has shown progression in understanding lanes and reading unfolding plays; most of his best defensive work comes through the neutral zone, as there is a lot less time and space to work with, and it is in those moments that Boqvist shines. Offensively, Boqvist is electric; he has the toolbox of a top line forward. Slick puckhandling ability paired with excellent vision and positional awareness makes him a dangerous threat every time he is on the ice. He also takes advantage of the attention and bodies he draws towards himself in creating space for teammates. All-in-all, Adam Boqvist is a complete offensive defenceman that knows how to get the puck from point A to the back of the net, and can make it happen all by himself.”
— Curtis Joe/Elite Prospects

“Boqvist is as good a playmaker as he is a shooter. He is equally dangerous in both offensive aspects. He can score from anywhere on the ice. If he doesn’t have the shooting lane, he can complete almost any pass. It’s usually the right pass and on the tape. He does all of this at a high rate of speed as he is a dynamic skater. Need an example of how offensively gifted he is? When his team needed a shootout goal, he was called upon to deliver and usually did. Of course the question with an offensive defenseman is how good is his two-way game? In Boqvist’s case, it’s decent. There’s certainly work to be done especially in his own end, but it’s improved. He’s actually really effective breaking up plays in the neutral zone. He uses his speed and stick handling to do this. Where he needs to improve is his size and strength in order to become more effective in his own zone. He thrives in open space, but needs to solidify his play in tight spaces.”
— Mark Scheig/The Hockey Writers

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This year’s draft is intriguing for a number of reasons. This draft class is notorious for having a boatload of high-end defensemen available, as well as a handful of top-end wingers. Looking at the last five drafts, nine defensemen were selected in each of the first rounds of the 2013, 2016 and 2017 drafts, while only eight were selected in the first round in 2015 and just five in the first round in 2014. However, in a draft class with as much blue line quality as this year’s, the first round tonight could see as many as 13 defensemen selected if our top 31 players are all selected or if tonight’s events mimic the mock draft below. The last time at least 10 defensemen were selected in the first round of a draft was 2012, when 13 were chosen, including a remarkable eight of the first 10 players selected.

Additionally, there is seemingly no guarantee about what will unfold after the Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes pick first and second, respectively. Montreal holds the third pick, and being in the market for a first line center, the Canadiens could opt to move the pick for immediate help. Or, if Montreal keeps the pick, they could decide to go a bit off the board to get their long-desired top pivot instead of drafting a higher-ranked player like Filip Zadina or Brady Tkachuk.

With the fourth pick, the Ottawa Senators have a decision to make. Ottawa must give up either this pick or their first round pick next year to the Colorado Avalanche to complete the Matt Duchene trade. If the Senators send this pick to Colorado, they will miss out on a player like Zadina or Tkachuk, who would be a big building block moving forward in their rebuild. But, if they choose to keep this pick and send next year’s first round pick, they may miss out on the chance to draft first overall and pick phenom Jack Hughes were they to win the draft lottery after what is expected to be another poor season.

Other teams within the top 10 may also consider moving their picks, though likely only if the return is strong enough. Rumors have swirled regarding the availability of the first round picks belonging to Arizona, Detroit, Vancouver and Chicago, who pick fifth through eighth, respectively. It is also possible some huge names could be on the move as well throughout the evening. Additionally, with all of the aforementioned teams needing help on their blue lines, it is possible highly ranked players like Zadina and Tkachuk could slide down the draft board.

So, without further adieu, let’s take a look at what might happen in what is shaping up to be a very exciting first round tonight. Though some of these picks could be moved prior to the selection, they will be predicted as the draft order currently stands.

1. Buffalo Sabres
Team Needs: LW, D, G
Options with the pick: Rasmus Dahlin, Andrei Svechnikov

Draft selection: Rasmus Dahlin, D, Frolunda (Sweden)

The Sabres take the slam dunk, can’t-miss Swedish phenom who will immediately upgrade their defense and be a face of the franchise for the foreseeable future. While Svechnikov would be a worthy first overall pick in other years, there is no mistaking what the Sabres have available to them in Dahlin. He is a franchise-altering, generational player who will help bring Buffalo out of their long and painful rebuild.

2. Carolina Hurricanes
Team Needs: C, RW, G
Options with the pick: Andrei Svechnikov, Filip Zadina, Brady Tkachuk

Draft selection: Andrei Svechnikov, RW, Barrie (OHL)

The Hurricanes pick the dynamic Russian goal scorer to become their long-term go-to offensive weapon. Svechnikov finally gives Carolina a legitimate top-end scorer who will fit in nicely with the likes of young stars Sebastian Aho and Teuvo Teravainen and top prospect Martin Necas.

3. Montreal Canadiens
Team Needs: C, RW, D
Options with the pick: Filip Zadina, Brady Tkachuk, Jesperi Kotkaniemi

Draft selection: Jesperi Kotkaniemi, C, Assat (Finland)

Montreal indeed goes off the board to get their hopeful first line center of the future. Kotkaniemi rocketed up the draft rankings this spring and established himself as the best center available. Though he may not have the elite offensive ability of Zadina or the all-around heavy game of Tkachuk, Kotkaniemi fills Montreal’s biggest need.

4. Ottawa Senators
Team Needs: LW and D
Options with the pick: Filip Zadina, Brady Tkachuk, Noah Dobson, Quintin Hughes, Adam Boqvist

Draft selection: Filip Zadina, RW, Halifax (QMJHL)

Despite right wing not necessarily being an area of great need for the Senators, they take the best player available in Zadina, a high-end sniper. Zadina should become a huge piece of Ottawa’s offense moving forward as they navigate their tricky rebuild. For what it’s worth, if this pick is moved to the Avalanche, they would likely take Zadina, too.

5. Arizona Coyotes
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Brady Tkachuk, Noah Dobson, Quintin Hughes, Evan Bouchard, Oliver Wahlstrom, Adam Boqvist

Draft selection: Brady Tkachuk, LW, Boston University (NCAA)

Arizona grabs the best player available in Tkachuk, making him a second-generation Coyote after his father, Keith. While Arizona could easily look toward taking a defenseman, Tkachuk is just too good to pass up. If a player like Tkachuk does not adequately round out Arizona’s plethora of high-end young forwards, not many would.

6. Detroit Red Wings
Team Needs: RW, D, G
Options with the pick: Noah Dobson, Quintin Hughes, Evan Bouchard, Oliver Wahlstrom, Adam Boqvist

Draft selection: Quintin Hughes, D, University of Michigan (NCAA)

The Red Wings go for the slam dunk pick in the smooth Wolverine defenseman. Hughes gives Detroit a legitimate long-term top-pairing defenseman. His familiarity with playing in Michigan (both with the US National Team Development Program and for the Wolverines) is a nice fit as well. While Hughes may be a bit one-dimensional, this pick just makes sense.

7. Vancouver Canucks
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Noah Dobson, Evan Bouchard, Oliver Wahlstrom, Adam Boqvist

Draft selection: Noah Dobson, D, Acadie-Bathurst (QMJHL)

Vancouver goes for the best player available in Dobson, who increased his draft stock with an excellent showing in the postseason en route to a Memorial Cup championship. Filling a big need doesn’t hurt, either. Dobson is a smooth-skating, two-way defenseman who can play in all situations and log big minutes.

8. Chicago Blackhawks
Team Needs: C, RW, D
Options with the pick: Evan Bouchard, Oliver Wahlstrom, Adam Boqvist, Barrett Hayton, Joe Veleno

Draft selection: Oliver Wahlstrom, RW, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)

The Blackhawks get their guy in Wahlstrom, a lethal finisher. While wingers are not necessarily the biggest need for Chicago, Wahlstrom should be able to finally fill the void next to Jonathan Toews on the Hawks’ top line and give the team a legitimate top-end sniper. Another option could be slotting him in opposite Patrick Kane if head coach Joel Quenneville would rather keep Alex DeBrincat on the first line. A combination of Wahlstrom and Kane could be devastating for the opposition. Bouchard and Boqvist may have drawn more consideration from the Blackhawks if they were left-handed, as the Hawks likely feel they are set for the future on the right side with 2017 draftees Henri Jokiharju and Ian Mitchell. By selecting Wahlstrom, Chicago cements their top-six forward group for the foreseeable future, with Wahlstrom joining Toews, Kane, DeBrincat, Brandon Saad and Nick Schmaltz.

9. New York Rangers
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Evan Bouchard, Adam Boqvist, Ty Smith

Draft selection: Evan Bouchard, D, London (OHL)

The Rangers snag the best player available in Bouchard, a high-scoring offensive defenseman. New York does not have much in the cupboard in terms of right-handed defensemen behind Kevin Shattenkirk, so Bouchard gives them a legitimate top-four right-handed defensemen who should be a valuable piece of their rebuild moving forward.

10. Edmonton Oilers
Team Needs: RW, D, G
Options with the pick: Adam Boqvist, Barrett Hayton, Joe Veleno, Ty Smith, Joel Farabee

Draft selection: Adam Boqvist, D, Brynas (Sweden)

Assuming Wahlstrom, Edmonton’s top target, is taken by Chicago, the Oilers will instead look to Boqvist, a high-end right-handed offensive defenseman, something the Oilers are lacking. He has all the tools needed to be an elite offensive defenseman in the future. Adding another high-end option to get the puck to Connor McDavid is nice as well.

11. New York Islanders
Team Needs: C, D, G
Options with the pick: Barrett Hayton, Joe Veleno, Ty Smith, Bode Wilde

Draft selection: Barrett Hayton, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

The Islanders are in good shape with wingers, and with no goaltenders expected to be taken in the first round, they can focus on picking a center and a defenseman with their back-to-back picks. With the future of John Tavares currently uncertain, the Islanders would like to shore up down the middle in case Tavares leaves Long Island. Hayton, although not close to what Tavares brings, is the best center available, boasting a reliable two-way game. With newly crowned Calder Trophy winner Mathew Barzal being the future of the Islanders in the middle, Hayton would be able to comfortably slot in as a number two center, a role he could excel in, especially with the talented wingers he would likely find himself between.

12. New York Islanders (Acquired from Calgary)
Team Needs: C, D, G
Options with the pick: Joe Veleno, Ty Smith, Bode Wilde

Draft selection: Ty Smith, D, Spokane (WHL)

Turning their attention to their second pick, the Islanders take the best defenseman available in Smith, a good two-way blueliner who excelled in an expanded role this season with Spokane.

13. Dallas Stars
Team Needs: C and RW
Options with the pick: Joe Veleno, Joel Farabee, Grigori Denisenko, Vitali Kravtsov

Draft selection: Joe Veleno, C, Drummondville (QMJHL)

Dallas picks the best player available in Veleno, who will add solid center depth for the Stars. Veleno is a very well-rounded player, similar to Jonathan Toews, and while lacking an elite ceiling, he should become a nice long-term piece in Dallas.

14. Philadelphia Flyers (Acquired from St. Louis)
Team Needs: LW and RW
Options with the pick: Joel Farabee, Grigori Denisenko, Vitali Kravtsov, Serron Noel

Draft selection: Joel Farabee, LW, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)

With plenty of options available on the wing, the Flyers opt for Farabee, an undersized, but skilled left winger. Farabee is at his best when playing with highly skilled line mates, as he played on a line with Wahlstrom and 2019 top prospect Jack Hughes, and Philadelphia can certainly offer that.

15. Florida Panthers
Team Needs: RW and G
Options with the pick: Grigori Denisenko, Vitali Kravtsov, Serron Noel

Draft selection: Vitali Kravtsov, RW, Chelyabinsk (Russia)

Florida goes with the best right wing available in Kravtsov, who has improved his draft stock in the spring, climbing all the way to being the third-ranked European skater according to NHL Central Scouting behind Dahlin and Boqvist. While Kravtsov is not close to jumping to the NHL, he should pan out in the long run and prove to be a wise pick.

16. Colorado Avalanche
Team Needs: LW, D, G
Options with the pick: Grigori Denisenko, Serron Noel, Rasmus Sandin, Isac Lundestrom, Bode Wilde

Draft selection: Grigori Denisenko, LW, Yaroslavl (Russia)

The Avalanche take the best player available in one of the highest-skilled players in the entire draft class. Denisenko will need some time before joining the Avs, but he could make a huge impact alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen down the road. Denisenko resembles Patrick Kane in the sense he is incredibly slippery and can make world-class plays with the puck. Adding a player like that to an already-dangerous Avalanche offense is a scary thought for opponents.

17. New Jersey Devils
Team Needs: LW and RW
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Martin Kaut, Isac Lundestrom, Ryan McLeod, Dominik Bokk

Draft selection: Martin Kaut, RW, Pardubice (Czech Republic)

New Jersey looks at their needs and what is available and decides on Kaut, a solid two-way right winger from the Czech Republic. He plays a game similar to Marian Hossa, and improved his draft stock with an excellent showing at the World Junior Championship playing on a line with Zadina and Carolina Hurricanes prospect Martin Necas. Kaut’s ability to be a high-end playmaker is too much for the Devils to look past, envisioning Kaut forming a future trio with MVP Taylor Hall and Nico Hischier.

18. Columbus Blue Jackets
Team Needs: C
Options with the pick: Isac Lundestrom, Akil Thomas, Rasmus Kupari, Ryan McLeod

Draft selection: Isac Lundestrom, C, Lulea (Sweden)

With the Blue Jackets in pretty good shape in all areas for the future, they can take whoever they feel is the best player available. While there are plenty of solid options at center, Lundestrom has the best two-way game, a big plus for a team with the high-end offensive defensemen Columbus has.

19. Philadelphia Flyers
Team Needs: LW and RW
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Rasmus Sandin, Dominik Bokk, Bode Wilde

Draft selection: Bode Wilde, D, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)

Though not a need at the NHL level, the Flyers have made it known they would like to add another defenseman, ideally right-handed, with one of their picks. Farabee was too good to pass up with the 14th pick, and their guy is still on the board at 19th in Wilde, a wild (no pun intended) pony with a cannon of a shot and plenty of upside. General Manager Ron Hextall comes away with two of his top targets and is thrilled.

20. Los Angeles Kings
Team Needs: D
Options with the pick: Rasmus Sandin, Jared McIsaac, K’Andre Miller

Draft selection: Rasmus Sandin, D, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

Los Angeles has not drafted a defenseman in the first round in a while and are lacking quality defensive prospects. As such, they grab the safest defenseman available in Sandin, who played a solid two-way game this season for the Greyhounds.

21. San Jose Sharks
Team Needs: LW and D
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Jared McIsaac, Akil Thomas, Dominik Bokk, K’Andre Miller

Draft selection: Dominik Bokk, RW, Vaxjo (Sweden)

The Sharks are generally in pretty good shape, so they can afford to take a shot on a player who will take a bit longer to develop. At this point in the draft, Bokk probably has the most skill and upside.

22. Ottawa Senators (Acquired from Pittsburgh)
Team Needs: LW and D
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Jared McIsaac, K’Andre Miller

Draft selection: K’Andre Miller, D, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)

Ottawa needs to shore up their blue line, especially with the possible departure of Erik Karlsson. While Miller will need time to develop, he has the highest ceiling among the defensemen available. With the rebuild in Ottawa starting to kick into full gear, waiting for Miller should not be an issue.

23. Anaheim Ducks
Team Needs: LW
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Akil Thomas, Rasmus Kupari

Draft selection: Akil Thomas, C, Niagara (OHL)

Anaheim is set on the back end for the foreseeable future, and while currently strong down the middle, select Thomas, a well-rounded, hard-working player with nice offensive upside. He can play center and wing, which will give the Ducks added flexibility.

24. Minnesota Wild
Team Needs: RW
Options with the pick: Serron Noel, Jared McIsaac, Jett Woo

Draft selection: Serron Noel, RW, Oshawa (OHL)

New Minnesota General Manager Paul Fenton cannot believe Noel is still on the board at 24, grabbing him in a heartbeat. Noel is extremely raw and will need a lot of time to develop, but his amazing combination of size, speed and skill give him among the highest ceilings out of any of the players in the draft class.

25. Toronto Maple Leafs
Team Needs: C and D
Options with the pick: Jared McIsaac, Rasmus Kupari, Ryan McLeod, Jett Woo, Ryan Merkley

Draft selection: Rasmus Kupari, C, Karpat (Finland)

The Maple Leafs and new General Manager Kyle Dubas have made it clear the team will be picking the best player available when they are on the clock with the 25th pick. Kupari is very gifted offensively and would be a nice addition to Toronto’s young, high-end offense.

26. New York Rangers (Acquired from Boston)
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Jared McIsaac, Ryan McLeod, Jett Woo, Mattias Samuelsson, Ryan Merkley

Draft selection: Jared McIsaac, D, Halifax (QMJHL)

The Rangers opt to take the best player available with their second of three first round picks, adding a nice left-handed defenseman in McIsaac. He is a beast to play against defensively, which will nicely complement New York’s group of skilled blueliners.

27. Chicago Blackhawks (Acquired from Nashville)
Team Needs: C, RW, D
Options with the pick: Ryan McLeod, Jett Woo, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Mattias Samuelsson, Ryan Merkley, Calen Addison, Nicolas Beaudin

Draft selection: Nicolas Beaudin, D, Drummondville (QMJHL)

After bypassing two high-end defensemen at pick eight, the Blackhawks go a bit off the board to take a player they really like in Beaudin. Beaudin fits the bill of what the Hawks love in puck-moving defensemen, and being left-handed will help his cause, as Chicago already has their long-term right-handed defensemen in Henri Jokiharju and Ian Mitchell, as mentioned earlier. However, if the team would rather grab a more defensively minded player, Jett Woo and Mattias Samuelsson are good, left-handed options.

28. New York Rangers (Acquired from Tampa Bay)
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Ryan McLeod, Jett Woo, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Mattias Samuelsson, Ryan Merkley, Jesse Ylonen

Draft selection: Jesse Ylonen, RW, Espoo (Finland)

With their final first round pick, the Rangers take a shot on Ylonen, a skilled Finnish winger. He has high-end offensive ability, but needs to work on his defensive game and get stronger. But, despite the risk, the potential high reward could certainly pay off, especially given New York already made two picks.

29. St. Louis Blues (Acquired from Winnipeg)
Team Needs: C and D
Options with the pick: Ryan McLeod, Jett Woo, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Mattias Samuelsson, Ryan Merkley

Draft selection: Ryan McLeod, C, Mississauga (OHL)

St. Louis takes a shot on the best player still available in McLeod, one of the best skaters in this year’s draft class. He really needs to work on his physical game, as he currently does not embrace contact at all, something he will need to add to his game to excel in the NHL. Additionally, his seeming lack of motivation and drive makes him fall a bit on the draft board. But, despite the high risk, the potential high reward could certainly pay off, especially given St. Louis needs to add a high-end center, something McLeod can become…if he wants to.

30. Detroit Red Wings (Acquired from Vegas)
Team Needs: RW, D, G
Options with the pick: Jett Woo, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Mattias Samuelsson, Ryan Merkley, Calen Addison, Alexander Alexeyev

Draft selection: Mattias Samuelsson, D, USNTDP U-18 (USHL)

After picking elite offensive defenseman Quintin Hughes, the Red Wings grab Samuelsson, a solid defenseman with a huge frame. While Samuelsson has managed to put up respectable offensive numbers thus far in his career, he does not project as a high-scoring blue liner, rather, a highly effective and reliable defender who can occasionally contribute offensively, which is exactly the role Detroit will want him to fill behind Hughes.

31. Washington Capitals
Team Needs: RW and D
Options with the pick: Ryan Merkley, Calen Addison, Alexander Alexeyev

Draft selection: Calen Addison, D, Lethbridge (WHL)

Clearly, the Stanley Cup champions have an excellent and deep team with few holes. With the possible departure of stud blue liner John Carlson this summer, the Caps opt for Addison, a right-handed puck-moving defenseman with great skating ability.

The first round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft begins tonight at 7:30 EST on NBCSN. Rounds two through seven begin Saturday at 11 a.m. EST on NHL Network.

The post 2018 NHL Entry Draft Preview and Mock Draft appeared first on The Rink.

These are the trades that affected the selection and draft position:

The post 2018 Blackhawks Entry Draft Ticker appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com host Jeff “Gatekeeper” Osborn and co-host John Jaeckel throw together another last minute episode with Rink writers Mario Tirabassi and Aaron Goldschmidt.

thanks to @Wm_J_Lepetomane on Twitter for this fine creation

• The Blackhawks sign John Hayden and Vinnie Hinostroza
• Stan Bowman has a virtually useless press conference full of fluff, empty words and lip service
• The Corey Crawford saga is no closer to being answered
• What happens or what options do they have if this Crawford thing falls off the table
• We talk a lot of draft options and trade scenarios
• We wrap up the episode with some great listener/reader questions.
• Aaron ends with a bit of a hot take prediction.

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

Also, Please help spread the word to more #RinkRats and visit our sponsor www.PUCKHCKY.com. Use the discount code “THERINK” for 10% off all orders.

The post The Blackhawks Rinkcast – Episode 25 appeared first on The Rink.