With the 2024 NHL draft fast approaching the Chicago Blackhawks will have a tough decision to make regarding the second overall pick. The Blackhawks hold both the 2nd and 18th pick in the NHL draft, with many eyes being turned toward the 2nd pick. Many analysts predict that the draft will begin at the 2nd pick, with the San Jose Sharks expected to select Boston University’s Macklin Celebrini first overall. This leaves Chicago with the chance to select Russian Forward Ivan Demidov.
Demidov is considered the second best prospect in the draft class and has been heavily linked to Chicago. Chicago has also been linked to other names particularly Artyom Levshunov. There has been alot of speculation that Chicago prefers Levshunov over Demidov. However, the Blackhawks need to be targeting Ivan Demidov with the 2nd pick. The debate over who the Hawks should select 2nd overall should already be over. Let’s cover some reasons as to why Demidov is the right move for Chicago.
Blackhawks Draft Dream is Pairing Ivan Demidov With Connor Bedard Would Be a Dream Scenario
Demidov is an electric playmaker who has a hockey sense that is matched by few players. Demidov has been touted as a pass first style of player and with Connor Bedard’s electric shot, this pair would be dangerous. Demidov’s ability to read defenders and find space without the puck can also make him a dangerous weapon for a guy like Bedard who also has a reputation as a solid passer himself.
Chicago had themselves a duo similar in style to Demidov and Bedard not too long ago. Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are one of the best duos in NHL history. The pair lifted multiple Stanley Cups throughout the 2010’s cementing the Blackhawks dynasty. Even though the duo’s are not identical to each other, the Blackhawks have the opportunity to repeat this same formula with their new core. Kyle Davidson should consider this when making his decision on draft night.
The Blackhawks Need Wingers
The Blackhawks have many strong prospects on the way. However, a majority of the forward prospects are centres. The Hawks should look to add a piece on the wing who can be a top six producer. Even if he isn’t playing on the same line as Bedard, Demidov can be a great addition to the top six.
Outside of Colton Dach and Lukas Reichel, the Hawks don’t have many formidable winger prospects that have a clear timeline to the NHL. Getting Demidov could really help the Blackhawks bulk up their core of winger prospects. It will also take pressure off some of the prospects in the AHL like Dach.
The Recent Matvei Michkov News Changes Alot
The latest news shifts the focus for the Blackhawks draft plans. The Philadelphia Flyers prospect Matvei Michkov broke some big news this week. Michkov announced that he would terminate his contract with the KHL and join the Flyers next season. What does this have to do with Ivan Demidov? Well Michkov went from being arguably a top three player in the 2023 draft to falling to the 7th pick. The reason behind this was due to teams fearing that Michkov wouldn’t leave Russia. Now that Michkov has decided to leave this could change the view teams have on Demidov and other Russian prospects.
While there has not been major concerns over Demidov staying in Russia, the Michkov news could be a good sign for Demidov. This news could mean that the Blackhawks would be more willing to take a shot at Ivan Demidov. Chicago now will not have as much reason to be fearful to risk Demidov not coming over to the NHL. While Demidov is expected to return to Russia, he doesn’t seem to be bound by his KHL contract. This is good news for a Hawks team who would like to see him in the NHL sooner rather than later.
The 2024 NHL draft is days away and Chicago has a big decision on their hands. The Blackhawks have a chance to get a potential star in Ivan Demidov. They can also fill a major need for a playmaking winger on the roster. The Hawks are building something special with Connor Bedard and need to surround him with talent. Ivan Demidov is exactly what Chicago needs.
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