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One concern looms for the Chicago Blackhawks' reported target at 3rd overall


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Sam Walker
May 21, 2025  (10:41)
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Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson 3rd overall pick announcement
Photo credit: NHL.COM

According to a recent report from Chicago Hockey Now, their may be a decision breaker with the Blackhawks' decision at third overall at this upcoming draft.

The biggest criticism of Hagens among Blackhawks fans is his size. If he were an inch taller, to put a 6 in the foot column, there would be far less angst about adding him to the mix. The NHL is not a big man's game anymore. Yes, you don't want to have a team full of small forwards, but you win with speed and skill in today's NHL. That's what Hagens brings to the table. He has enough talent to make up for being 5-foot-11. Size can be found easily via trades and free agency.

Size can defintely be an issue, and with Porter Martone likely being available at 3rd overall for the Blackhawks, how could they pass up on a 6-foot-2, 213lb frame?
Although Martone has the size and puck protection skills, which would compliment Connor Bedard, Hagens has the skillset that could keep up with him.
Hagens is a cerebral player. His ability to see and process the game can't be coached. He utilizes his hockey sense to push the pace of play, then his elite-level skill set finishes off opponents. Hagens fits right into the type of team Kyle Davidson is trying to build. He's smart, fast, and deadly off the rush. It's hard to get pushed around by larger players if they can't catch you. His skating allows him to elude defenders and create open space. Once in the clear, he is equally dangerous shooting the puck or setting up his teammates.

An interesting factor as well is that James Hagens has played with current Blackhawks forward Oliver Moore and defenseman Sam Rinzel, as well as Frank Nazar.
Setting Hagens up for a smoth transition to the Blackhawks.
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MAI 21   |   333 ANSWERS
One concern looms for the Chicago Blackhawks' reported target at 3rd overall

Do you think the Chicago Blackhawks should select a sizeable player, or a small skillful player with their third overall pick?

Size over skill!18655.9 %
Skill over size!14744.1 %
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