It is now common knowledge that the Chicago Blackhawks plan to use this upcoming 2025-2026 season as a platform for their young players to gain experience. Nick Lardis, Artyom Levshunov, Jack Pridham, and others are gearing up for a major competition in training camp. What people don't know is whether #3 overall pick Anton Frondell will be part of those plans. There is no question that the Blackhawks see a bright future for him. What they haven't clarified is whether that future starts immediately this season.
New information may have cleared that issue up. According to Gunnar Nordström of Expressen, Frondell will attend camp with the Blackhawks and return to Sweden for another season with Djurgården.
According to what Expressen learns, Anton Frondell, 18, is close to signing a rookie contract with the Chicago Blackhawks.
But Djurgården fans can rest assured.
Frondell will remain in Stockholm and Sweden to play with Djurgården in the SHL season 2025-26.
This isn't a big surprise. Frondell said he would likely return home for another year if he weren't guaranteed a roster spot. After all, the SHL is considered one of the three best hockey leagues in the world. He will get plenty of meaningful experience against good competition. It also gives him another chance to chase the league championship after Djurgården lost in the Finals.
Anton Frondell can get experience there that he may not get this season.
Right now, the Blackhawks are working to sort out what they have. Several young guys appear ready for their opportunities after spending a couple of years in the minors. They've earned their shot. Anton Frondell will get his. That is a given. He's a top-three pick. Chicago has big plans for him. The beauty of the situation is that they don't need him right away. He can be free to stay home and keep honing his craft, building confidence as he matures. Next year, he should be ready to join the ranks of what will hopefully be a more seasoned and quality hockey team. If things progress as hoped, Frondell will make them significantly better upon arrival next summer.
