The Chicago Blackhawks have the honor of making two picks in the first round of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. Their first pick, the very first of the draft, has already been decided. Connor Bedard is the chosen one. However, there are still many quality prospects available after the 15th pick. Here are some of the players who may end up being available later in the draft.
Andrew Cristall, a left-winger from the Kelowna Rockets, may not be the strongest skater, but he managed to put up impressive numbers with 39 goals and 56 assists for 95 points, ranking 5th in scoring among all WHL skaters. He would be a great addition as an offensive play-driver.
Oliver Moore is a two-way center who can be used on both the power-play and penalty kill. He is known for his exceptional skating abilities. Moore scored 75 points in the US National Under 18 team, 25 points in the USNDP, and 9 points for Team USA in the under 18 World Championship. He may or may not be available at 19, and the Hawks may need to trade up for him.
Axel Sandin-Pellikka, a D-man, has recently been compared to Cale Makar. The young defenseman has made great strides in the SHL this year and made an impact in the J20 system in Sweden with 36 points in 31 games. Although he is considered undersized, he is still a solid option. However, given the draft's forward-heavy nature, Oliver Bonk may be the better choice.
Samuel Honzek is a versatile LW/RW who can play a two-way game. He had 56 points in 43 games for the Vancouver Giants in the WHL, despite missing significant time after suffering a cut leg in the 2022 IIHF World Hockey Championship.
