The fact that the Chicago Blackhawks had six players under the age of 24 in their staring lineup by the end of last season says all you need to know about the club's recent success in identifying and developing young talent.
Included in that group were young superstars Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews and future blue-line studs Brent Seabrook and Cam Barker.
Obviously, with that many youngsters in the NHL, the cupboard at the minor and junior level can't be as full as it might have been, under different circumstances, but there are still several good prospects in the Hawks' organization. The club is especially strong at the forward positions, with a half dozen players close to being ready to join Kane, Toews and Patrick Sharp in “the show.”
Here are the Fantasy Hockey Network's ranking of the top five fantasy prospects in the Chicago Blackhawks' system:
1. Jack Skille, RW – Perhaps the most NHL ready of the Hawks' prospects, the Fairbault, Minnesota native has a complete skill set that should make him a top six forward soon in Chicago.
Blessed with size, speed and a blistering shot he can get away in a hurry, Skille has the tools to be an offensive player and a love of contact that can make him physically dominating at times.
The seventh overall pick in the 2005 entry draft needs to improve his defensive game and continue to get stronger to effectively play his style of game at the next level.
2. Igor Makarov, RW – The 20-year old Russian plays a strong two-way game and is just loaded with skill and offensive potential.
A strong, seemingly effortless skater with deceptive puck handling skills and a super quick release, Makarov plays with energy and is effective on both the fore-check and back-check.
Needs to get stronger and more experience but has the potential to be an elite offensive player, if the development goes as planned. One to watch for sure.
3. Kyle Beach, C – Beach is an interesting hybrid player—part power forward, part agitator in the Claude Lemieux mode.
The Everett Silvertip has a scorer's touch and is not afraid to go into traffic to create chances. Most scouts rated him as one of the most competitive players available in the 2008 draft from the blue line in. He also has a mean streak and is not afraid to drop the gloves, making him a double threat in those fantasy leagues that reward penalty minutes.
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