Toronto Maple Leafs poach monstrous Chicago Blackhawks 6-foot-3 free agent forward: An offer has been made

The Chicago Blackhawks prospect, Alex Pharand, was originally drafted 99th overall in the 4th-round of the 2023 NHL Draft.

The forward has a sizable frame, at 6-foot-3, and 192 pounds. Power-forwards typically come in that kind of build, and if we know anything if they can play physically and score; they're difficult to come by.

Well, it appears that GM Brad Treliving has something in store for the Blackhawks, a two-way forward.

The Maple Leafs are angling to steal Pharand from out of their clutches. As a result of the Blackhawks' inability to sign some of their prospects, or flat-out refusal, we never know; Pharand could be wearing a new crest the next time we see him.

Maple Leafs offer camp invite to Alex Pharand

Pharand has been given a chance to earn a spot in the Maple Leafs organization, with an invitation to the Rookie Showcase.

The 20-year-old forward can show Treliving and company what he's made of in front of the Leafs faithful.

The forward has spent the last four years of his career playing in the OHL with the Sudbury Wolves, and put up 59 points (17-42) as an OHL overager.

Treliving has to believe the 6-foot-3, 192-pound forward can be a factor in the Leafs organization; otherwise, there wouldn't have been an invitation.

This could turn out to be a case of coulda-woulda-shoulda for the Blackhawks if it all goes south for GM Kyle Davidson and company.

The Maple Leafs are restocking their prospect pipeline, albeit unconventionally. Pharand could be a shoo-in for a spot in the AHL or ECHL, depending on how he does during the showcase.