Chicago Blackhawks top prospect has shockingly refused a contract offer from the organization

There must be something brewing in the water in Chicago, and it's not good, as top Blackhawks prospect Dominic James has decided to forego signing his ELC with the team.

The deal would've seen him suit up with the Rockford IceHogs as he'd sign a contract for part of the season, and the remainder of the year would be an ATO for the former Bulldogs forward.

James was selected 173rd overall in the 6th round of the 2022 NHL Draft. He hasn't had the best of luck, as his 2023-2024 season only saw him suit up for one game due to an injury.

Now, the prospect of signing with a team that is attempting to undercut his perceived value. Could he hold out until August and explore what other deals are available, other than the Hawks?

It's arguable that his value has increased this season, as he's played 35 games with the UMD Bulldogs and scored a total of 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists).

He also served as team Captain, but it seems like maybe GM Kyle Davidson isn't expecting much out of James if this is all he is offering at the moment.

The Blackhawks also don't have their house in order, as Anders Sorensen has failed to recover the last three-quarters of the regular season.

It could be a multitude of factors which has us pondering, is it the bad contract, or is it Chicago itself that is now off-putting to James?

Regardless, this could be a bad look for Danny Wirtz and the club as they lowball their own prospects.