Prospect Will Smith is an intriguing prospect that scouts and experts can't seem to fully agree on. Many big board rankings have Smith ranked between 5th and eighth going into this draft, but many can also see Smith going in the top 4 due to the uncertainty surrounding winger Matvei Michkov.
The 18 year old centerman had a ridiculous season with the U.S. National U18 team. Smith skated in 60 games, scoring 51 goals and tallying 76 assists on his way to a 127 point season. Smith also managed to score 9 goals and tally 11 assists through 7 games for Team USA at the World Juniors this season.
While not landing Bedard or Fantilli may be a big disappointment to Blackhawks fans, Will Smith is a great player that Chicago can build around. Smith is committed to Boston College for the 2023-2024 season, but would seemingly be able to make the leap to Rockford after one year, barring injury like we saw happen with Frank Nazar. Smith's skill with the puck on his stick, abilities in the offensive zone, and winning pedigree make him an intriguing prospect that the Blackhawks would be lucky to add if the ping pong balls don't fall their way.
