The Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect pool has seen significant development over the years, with the addition of high-profile prospects like Connor Bedard and the promotion of players like Alex Vlasic. Following the 2024 NHL Draft, the Blackhawks have made several new additions to their player pool, including their top pick Artyom Levshunov.
Here are the top five Chicago Blackhawks prospects to watch out for during the 2024 NHL season:
5: Gavin Hayes (LW)
Gavin Hayes was drafted in the third round with the No. 66 overall pick. He has shown progress and had a solid season in the OHL, splitting his time between the Flint Firebirds A and the Soo Greyhounds. Hayes also represented the USA Under-20 team in the WJC-20 tournament. With 76 points last season, he is expected to play for the Rockford IceHogs next season and has the potential to be called up to the Chicago Blackhawks.
4: Drew Commesso (G)
Drew Commesso was drafted in the second round with the No. 46 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. He is considered the top goaltending prospect in the Chicago Blackhawks’ system, boasting a 90.6% save percentage. Commesso played 38 games with the Rockford IceHogs last season and finished with a 2.65 goals against average. He has been with the prospect pool for some time now and is starting to find his rhythm in the net.
3: Sacha Boisvert (C)
Sacha Boisvert was drafted in the first round with the No. 18 overall pick in this year’s draft. He has impressed scouts with his goal-scoring and playmaking abilities while playing for the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL. Boisvert recorded 68 points in 61 games last season and is considered one of the top prospects in the Blackhawks’ system. He may choose to play for the University of North Dakota next season.
2: Marek Vanacker (LW)
Marek Vanacker was drafted in the first round with the No. 27 pick in this year’s NHL draft. He had an outstanding season in the OHL, leading the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect pool with 82 points in 68 games. Vanacker showcased his skills while playing for the Brantford Bulldogs. As a talented two-way player, he has demonstrated abilities beyond his age.
1: Artyom Levshunov (D)
Artyom Levshunov was selected with the second overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Although he still needs to develop as a player, joining Michigan State late last summer, Levshunov has displayed remarkable grace and athleticism on both ends of the ice. He has the potential to be one of the top NHL prospects to watch this season, regardless of team.With these talented prospects in their pool, the Chicago Blackhawks are focused on developing their young talent and building a strong future for the franchise.