Three names the Blackhawks could select with the NO.2 overall pick

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Sam Walker
May 8, 2024 (12:09)

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Blackhawks Set for No. 2 Pick in the 2024 NHL Draft: Potential Game-Changers to Watch

The 2024 NHL Draft lottery wrapped up on Tuesday, and the Chicago Blackhawks have secured the No. 2 overall pick.

While the San Jose Sharks took the top spot and are likely to select Macklin Celebrini, a highly-touted two-way center, the Blackhawks also have a chance to draft a future star.

Even without the top pick, the Blackhawks have a great opportunity to add a significant player to their roster. Here are some promising young talents they might consider:

Ivan Demidov is a versatile forward, standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 180 pounds. He can play both winger and center positions. Known for his offensive skills, Demidov might have the highest scoring potential in the draft. This season, he scored 60 points, including 23 goals and 37 assists, in just 30 games for SKA-1946 in the Russian Junior Hockey League, despite a knee injury sidelining him for two months. He also had an impressive postseason, adding 28 points in 17 games.

D Sam Dickinson is a powerful defenseman at 6-foot-3 and 204 pounds. He has the skills to be a top-four defenseman who can handle various game situations. Playing for the OHL's London Knights, Dickinson scored 70 points (18 goals and 52 assists) across 68 regular-season games, ranking fourth among defensemen. He also contributed seven points in 12 postseason games.

D Artyom Levshunov has had an outstanding freshman year at Michigan State. At 6-foot-2 and 208 pounds, he's projected to be a top-pairing defenseman in the NHL. He tallied 35 points, with nine goals and 26 assists, in 38 games. His right-handed shot adds to his value on the ice.

C Cayden Lindstrom is a big, strong center at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds. He's seen as a potential top-six forward in the NHL. This season with the WHL's Medicine Hat Tigers, he notched 46 points in 32 games, despite missing time due to a wrist injury. Lindstrom's physical play and ability to perform in both offensive and defensive roles make him a compelling choice.

D Anton Silayev stands out with his height at 6-foot-7 and 211 pounds. He is a Russian defenseman who has already moved up to play in the KHL, where he recorded 11 points in 63 games and added two assists in the postseason. His ability to handle all facets of the game and his potential ceiling are exceptionally high.

With such talented players available, the Blackhawks are in an excellent position to select a player who could become a cornerstone of their team for years to come.