One of those players is the Chicago Steel's own Michael Hage, who is linked to the Chicago Blackhawks at 18th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Hage is projected to be drafted outside of the top 10 of the 1st round but could prove to be a great selection, as his willpower to persevere has been defined by recent struggles.
Hage is originally from Mississauga, Ontario, and left home early to join the Chicago Steel in the USHL. He left home to excel in junior hockey in the USHL and accomplished that, but when he returned home for the Holiday the day in July ended in tragedy as his father Alan drowned during the festivities.
After the tragic event, he had to return to training to keep a sense of normalcy, while keeping his father in his memory. Not to mention the distance between himself and his family being an issue for the forward, he also suffered an injury to his shoulder during the first day of camp with the Steel, an unfortunate event.
He would come back stronger during the 2nd season of his career with the Chicago Steel.
Hage's Coach Mike Garman:
Hage's career has improved since his first season when he would only play 13 games with the Steel.
During his second season in 2023-2024, he would push himself past all expectations, scoring 75 points( 33 G, 22 A) in 54 games.
His story would be a major factor in how clubs viewed him, including the Nashville Predators scout Jean-Phillip Glaude.
He has the traits many teams, including the Blackhawks, should covet as Captain of the Chicago Steel.
He is currently projected to go outside the first half of the first round in the 2024 NHL Draft, a perfect spot for the Blackhawks to swipe him up.
Source: Habsetlnh
A horrible tragedy struck a possible future Montreal Canadiens player
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JUIN 22 | 97 ANSWERS A Terrible Tragedy Strikes a Future Chicago Blackhawks Prospect Should the Blackhawks draft Michael Hage? | ||
Yes | 48 | 49.5 % |
No | 49 | 50.5 % |
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