Several Blackhawks Prospects Showed Promise During Showcase.
It was a fantastic sight to see, especially after several months of NHL hockey being on hiatus for the summer. Several NHL organizations hosted rookie camps and games against other teams to assess their organizational depth following recent additions through the NHL draft.
The Blackhawks participated in the Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase, where they competed against the St. Louis Blues and the Minnesota Wild. Many players on both sides showcased their talented prospects; however, the Blackhawks had four players in particular who had excellent games and deserved mention.
First and foremost is Connor Bedard, who made an amazing start to his NHL career. He played in one of the two games against the Saint Louis Blues in the first game.
Bedard put on a show, demonstrating the potential of a budding superstar by scoring three goals and providing one assist for a total of four points, along with eleven shots on goal. This prospect lives up to the hype, and I believe he'll only improve as he settles into the Blackhawks organization and the team surrounds him with better players to build around.
Secondly, Wyatt Kaiser had an outstanding first game. While he sat out the second game alongside Bedard against the Wild, he caught the attention of management and the coaching staff during the first game. Kaiser, drafted in the third round of the 2020 entry draft, 81st overall, is a 21-year-old defenseman standing at 6 feet and weighing 172 pounds.
He showcased his defensive prowess, making it challenging for opponents to get past him. He continues to make a strong case for a spot on the NHL roster this season.
Colton Dach, the younger brother of former Blackhawks forward Kirby Dach, had extensive discussions with the coaching staff last year. He was advised to play more aggressively and physically to make a difference, and it appears he took that advice to heart.
During both games, the 20-year-old, who stands at six feet four and weighs 196 pounds, displayed a more physical and aggressive style of play. He was selected in the second round, 62nd overall, in the 2021 entry draft and possesses the versatility to play center and left wing, which bodes well for his career with the Blackhawks in different situations.
Lastly, Kevin Korchinski is the Blackhawks' top defensive prospect with a chance to make the team this year. After playing in the Memorial Cup with the Seattle Thunderbirds last season, despite an unfortunate defeat to the Quebec Remparts, Korchinski has every reason to strive for improvement.
During the prospect showcase, he looked extremely comfortable playing alongside Bedard, especially on the power play, where he contributed with two primary assists during the game against the Wild.
The Blackhawks split the series with a 5-0 win and a 7-4 loss.
| POLL | ||
Did you watch the Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase? | ||
| Yes | 49 | 57 % |
| No | 37 | 43 % |
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