As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare for the 2024 NHL Draft, they hold two pivotal first-round picks, one at #2 and the other at #18. While the second overall pick is likely to secure either Artyom Levshunov or Ivan Demidov, the 18th spot opens up intriguing possibilities. Among these, Trevor Connelly stands out as a promising candidate, and his potential selection merits closer examination.
Trevor Connelly’s skill set makes him a compelling choice for the Blackhawks. Known for his excellent skating and playmaking abilities, Connelly consistently demonstrates his prowess with the puck. His performance in the USHL, where he tallied 31 goals and 47 assists, underscores his dynamic offensive capabilities. Adding a player of Connelly’s caliber could significantly enhance Chicago’s offensive depth, especially if paired with a talent like Connor Bedard. Bedard, already noted for his exceptional shooting skills, could develop strong on-ice chemistry with Connelly, potentially creating a formidable offensive duo.
Hailing from Tustin, California, Connelly is an American left winger with aspirations of becoming an NHL star. Being selected in the mid-first round would be a significant milestone in his career. His development will continue at Providence College in the NCAA for the 2024-25 season. Competing in Hockey East, Connelly will face high-caliber opponents regularly, including teams like Boston University and Boston College, known for their robust hockey programs. This competitive environment will be crucial for his growth, providing him with the experience needed to transition to professional play.
The likelihood of Connelly being available at the 18th pick is fairly high, given the draft’s emphasis on defensemen this year. However, his exact draft position remains unpredictable due to varying team preferences. If a team in the mid-teens highly values Connelly’s skill set, they might select him earlier, but the Blackhawks have a strong chance of acquiring him if they deem him the right fit. Should they pass on Connelly, he is likely to be picked soon after by another team, potentially a playoff contender looking to bolster their roster with young talent.
For the Blackhawks, selecting Connelly would be a strategic move. His skating and playmaking abilities align well with the team’s needs, and his potential to grow alongside other promising prospects within the organization makes him an attractive option. Connelly’s ability to create plays and his offensive versatility would address the franchise’s need for a speedy, dynamic winger capable of contributing significantly both in scoring and in setting up goals.
In conclusion, as the Blackhawks navigate their options for the 18th pick, Trevor Connelly presents a compelling case. His proven track record in the USHL, coupled with his future development at Providence College, positions him as a valuable prospect for Chicago. With the potential to form a dynamic partnership with Connor Bedard, Connelly could become a key player in the Blackhawks’ future. Thus, considering Connelly at the 18th spot—or even trading up slightly to secure him—could be a wise move for the franchise as they aim to build a competitive team for the future.
