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Blackhawks take Kirby Dach 3rd Overall

June 21, 2019, 11:02 PM ET [661 Comments]
Tyler Cameron
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT


I will admit, I didn't have Kirby Dach as high on my list of the potential 5 prospects the Blackhawks would call at #3.

My list would have been:

Byram
Turcotte
Cozens
Zegras
Dach

Then again, I've said is numerous times, I'm not an NHL scout and not the best person to rely on for this decision.

Here was my Kirby Dach blog for your reference though.

If you're in the category of this being a "terrible pick" or "Stan should be fired" keep in mind all that goes into this pick.

There is his skill set obviously that Mark Kelley and his scouting staff analyze. Then there is the combine to judge his fitness level on a variety of areas; Blackhawks strength and conditioning guru, Paul Goodman plays a big role there. Then there is the interview process. Bowman, Kelley and other key members tireless interview these players to determine what type of character they are getting. They vet old coaches, teammates and family to round out their impression of the player.

Obviously, the Hawks liked what they saw in Dach as they didn't scout him too heavily throughout the season. It was mentioned that Detroit sent people to visit him throughout the season, and even Rob Blake went and watched Dach live.

When looking at everything, you do have to remember Dach was ranked 3rd by Central Scouting in North America, 2nd skating forward behind Jack Hughes.

His skills are there as a big guy who can score, shows elite passing, rounded out with a real strong 2-way game.

The Hawks posted this picture that they had canned and ready to go right after Dach was drafted:



(Courtesy: Chicago Blackhawks)

“… I maybe see things that other players don't, and (kind of) predict plays that happen two, three steps ahead, I'm always kind of playing that chess game and not what's happening right now, but what's happening three, four seconds later, that's what kind of separates me from other players." (Kirby Dach)

This kid is a gamer. He wants to get better in all facets of the game is meticulous in doing so in a strategic way.

You have to like that about him.

Get to know him a little bit more here:

(Courtesy: WHL)

I had heard Alex Turcotte was going to be the pick for the Hawks but just like last year, when I heard Oliver Wahlstrom was "their guy", the Hawks went in a different direction with a guy like Kirby Dach.

I'm really warming up to the pick and will trust the Hawks scouts.

I also will say this, please don't expect Dach to make the team next year. He could… but just pretend that he's going back to the Saskatoon Blades.

The Hawks will not rush him but if Dach shows up to camp with his 6'4 / 198 lbs frame and pushes his way on the team, I don't think anyone will be shocked.

I do like that the Hawks put out that photo (with Dach's #77) titled "centers of attention" which might be a great sign that they are dedicated to him being a part of their future at centre vs. starting him at wing. That could obviously change, but if you have Toews, Strome and Dach down the middle for the next 5+ years, the Hawks are in great shape.

What are your thoughts on Dach?

--

I'll have rumors as they come in tonight and/or tomorrow.

See ya out there!

TC
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