The Chicago Blackhawks’ future just got a little more exciting after moving up in the draft lottery from 12th overall to third overall. This is an absolute game-changer for the Blackhawks who could be well on their way to a fast track rebuild if they can pick the right player.
With the third overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Blackhawks will have endless options, the Hawks could package the third overall pick and a prospect for an elite NHL ready player, potentially move up in the draft or have their choice of any player not named Jack Hughes and Kappo Kakko.
The best option for the Chicago Blackhawks is to hold onto the draft pick and draft a player that can join the ranks of Jonathan Toews, Dylan Strome, Denis Savard, and Eddie Olczyk.
Two players Blackhawks fans should keep an eye on this summer are defenseman Bowen Byram and Center Dylan Cozens. These are the players I think can step in immediately and fix a lot of problems on the Blackhawks roster.
Bowen Byram
Byram is a 6-foot-0, 193 pound smooth skating left-handed defenseman from Vancouver. In 67 games this year with the Vancouver Giants in the WHL Byram has 71 points.
Byram is a strong skater that protects the puck well, he’s a dynamic offensive threat and is a fearless defender that isn’t afraid to use his body. Byram is projected to be a cornerstone defenseman that draws comparisons to Drew Doughty.
Dylan Cozens
Cozens is a 6-foot-3, 183-pound jack of all trades center/right-wing from Whitehorse, Yukon. In 65 games with the Lethbridge Hurricanes in the WHL this year Cozens has 84 points.
Cozens is a complete 200 foot player that brings tons of energy. He’s a fast skater with a surprisingly quick first step, can score from anywhere on the ice with his excellent wrist shot and net-front presence. Cozens hits hard and his defensive ability separates him from the rest of the draft. His game is similar to Ryan Kesler.
The Blackhawks will be able to add a very good player this year and will have a chance to get back into the playoffs very soon.
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