As we count down the days to the 2023 NHL Draft in Nashville (just two weeks!), many fans’ attention has shifted to the 19th overall pick. We all know who the first overall pick should be, as the Blackhawks will be selecting the face of their franchise in Connor Bedard. However, the possibilities with the other first-round pick are seemingly endless. Chicago could select a multitude of different players, or even use the pick to trade up or back in the first round. With the pick toward the bottom of the first round, it’s nearly impossible to predict what GM Kyle Davidson plans to do with it. However, the Blackhawks may have dropped hints on a few possibilities.
Daniil But
According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, the Blackhawks are very interested in taking a look at But with the 19th overall pick. Davidson hasn’t shied from the topic, as he discussed drafting a Russian this year:
“I think it’s case by case, whether it be contractual obligations, you’re always asking — even this predates any of the current situation in the world, is you’re always trying to get a sense of their willingness to come and want to play in North America. That’s always a question you have, but on the face of it, as a general rule, I don’t think there’s apprehension. I think you just have to do a little more work, I think, given the circumstances right now.”
The idea of taking a Russian prospect in the draft, especially with an ever-valuable first-round pick, is rather intimidating. With travel restrictions becoming more strict by the day, there’s no guarantee that a draft pick would even be allowed to leave the country.
But But’s talent may be too good to pass up with the 19th overall pick. He’s widely considered to be a first-round prospect. He has an odd skill set for the Blackhawks, as he’s massive (6’ 5”, 203 lbs.), but has the puck handling and shooting skill of a much smaller skater. Despite concerns about his size, he’s expected to be one of the best Russian prospects in the class.
Andrew Cristall
At the NHL Combine, Chicago’s next golden boy had glowing ratings of a fellow prospect - Andrew Cristall. Cristall, who was Bedard’s best friend since age five, put up 95 points in 54 games with the Kelowna Rockets last season. Bedard said of Cristall, “He’s an offensive threat every time he’s on the ice,” and Cristall proved that prowess as he prepared for the draft.
He displayed high-end skill as well as elite scoring ability, but his game has a few holes. He’s not the best skater, nor is he very good defensively. But his productivity on the offensive end, as well as his friendship with the Blackhawks’ face of the franchise, could be enough for Chicago to take him in the late first round.
When it comes to the NHL Draft, no two mock drafts are the same. While the possibilities are endless for the Blackhawks’ 19th overall pick, a few names are starting to stand out as potential candidates. From a player that may never come to the U.S. to the #1 pick’s childhood buddy, the potential for Chicago’s pick is limitless.
