Blackhawks: How Stan Bowman created a successful retool
Looking back at the 2017 NHL Draft, the Blackhawks absolutely nailed their first and second round picks, which has set them up for current and future success.
player. 94. Scouting Report. Finland. Henri Jokiharju. 29. Pick Analysis. Defenseman
Snagging Henri Jokiharju with the 29th overall pick was an absolute steal for the Blackhawks. As the team’s former top-prospect, Jokiharju is an exciting young defenseman who has an extremely smooth offensive game. In addition to formerly holding the title as the Blackhawk’s top prospect, Jokiharju also brought hope to a massive positional issue of defensemen
Although he is no longer with the team, nailing this draft pick was crucial in the Blackhawks retooling process, as holding a top prospect in the organization is always a massive asset to have. Despite the fact that he did not play an NHL game in Chicago in 2019, his impact has already been felt this season through the play of the individual for which he was traded.
player. 94. Pick Analysis. AJHL. Ian Mitchell. 57. Scouting Report. Defenseman
It is very uncommon to draft two high-level prospects with only one first round pick in a draft, but the Blackhawks were able to do so in taking college defenseman Ian Mitchell in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. Mitchell has yet to sign a pro contract, but we could likely see him do so this Summer. Mitchell is a player who truly excels at both ends of the ice.
Perhaps is greatest tool in his arsenal is his skating ability, as he is one of the best-skating defenseman in college hockey. Although undersized at only 5ft 11 inches, it has yet to be an issue for the 20-year-old. After Mitchell does finally sign with the club, the Blackhawks could see him come up to the NHL as soon as next season. He is very close to NHL-ready and is yet another exciting young piece in the Blackhawks defensive core.