Blackhawks Prospect Spotlight: Isaak Phillips
Isaak Phillips is just one of the many young defenseman the Blackhawks have waiting in the wings for their crack at the NHL. Everyone seems to have their own opinion on how the young defenseman rank in terms of future potential, but I think Isaak Phillips has a strong case to be the best of the bunch.
Phillips was drafted in the 5th round of the 2020 NHL Draft, falling to the Blackhawks at pick number 141. He spent 2018-2020 playing for the Sudbury Wolves of the OHL. In his two seasons in the OHL, Phillips tallied 40 points in 131 games, registering a 10 +/- along the way. Phillips is known for his strength, physicality, puck handling, passing, speed, and shot blocking. Phillips has all of the skills necessary to become a very solid defenseman with scoring potential.
In the 2020-21 season, Phillips debuted in the AHL with Rockford, tallying 9 points in 27 games, and a +/- 3. During this past season, Phillips skated in 64 games for Rockford, tallying 25 points and finishing with a +/- 0. Phillips also skated in 4 games in Chicago. He went pointless and registered a +/- 1 during his short stint. Phillips also played in his first playoff series since he turned pro, skating in 5 games for the IceHogs. Phillips registered 2 points in those games and logged a 3 +/-.
It was evident that Phillips needs to get bigger, faster, and stronger to take the next step in becoming an NHL regular. The potential is there. The skillset is there. Phillips needs to take next season to fine-tune his craft and continue to play his type of strong game, which will poise him to make a push to become an NHL regular in the near future.
| POLL | ||
Are you optimistic about Isaak Phillips? | ||
| Yes, he has a bright future | 57 | 53.8 % |
| No, he hasn't proven anything | 49 | 46.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
