This was in Pope’s piece in the ST’s

People around the league have speculated Martone might not interest the Hawks because his subpar skating and inconsistent play don’t fit their recent track record of focusing on elite skaters with high work ethic. But Davidson suggested he might diversify what he’s looking for this year.

‘‘We do have a lot of players that are similar in their strengths,’’ he said. ‘‘In some respects, I think that’s how you build identity. In others, you can bring in players — if you’ve got enough [already] — that it’s not going to take away from the core strength of your team. So you can bring players in that have a different skill set, that are more of a complementary piece. That’s definitely something we’re considering.’’

Davidson also emphasized the Hawks definitively view Bedard and Frank Nazar as NHL centers — they’re not considering moving one to the wing — so a prospect’s likelihood of being able to play center in the future doesn’t matter much to them. That might most affect Desnoyers, who is considered the truest center of the bunch.

More Pope…

Trading picks or prospects for young players already under contract appeals to Davidson more, but he cautioned — as usual — that trade partners aren’t easy to find. Indeed, there aren’t many teams currently entering rebuilds and looking to auction off guys like the Hawks did three years ago.

“It’s something that we can explore, and we’ve got the ammo to access [it] if something comes available,” he said. “So we’re open to it, but it’s really hard. Everyone wants good players, and then when they get them, they don’t want to give them up. That’s why a lot of these players are either acquired via the draft, or using assets that they’ve gotten from the draft or draft capital. Everything stems back to the draft.”

DeBoer out in Dallas.
- MartiniMan

Not surprised, can’t take your franchise goalie out in an elimination game after giving up two goals. He then throws Oettinger under the bus in his post game comments. It will be interesting to see who they now hire, maybe Lavs or Torts?

Draft Prospect Profile:
BRYCE PICKFORD - RD
Height: 6-0
Weight: 183
DOB: 02-04-06 Age: 19 (Undrafted 2024)

2024-25 MEDICINE HAT WHL 48-20-27-47 (PO: 18-13-11-24) PPG: 0.98 PIM: 34
2025-26 MEDICINE HAT WHL --

Pickford played two years in Seattle and was an agile and responsible defenseman. He is instinctive and able to break up plays and move the puck up ice. Playing on a rebuilding Seattle team, his scoring did not stand out. This seems to have changed with Medicine Hat this year as he is at a point per game, and better in the playoffs. Had an excellent game against Rimouski in the Memorial Cup with 2 goals and some good defensive plays; but a not-so-good final with a -3 against London. Liked Pickford's game when I saw him in Seattle, think he might be a good value pick for refilling the defense pipeline.

Central Scouting Final Ranking: 100 (NA)
Wiz: 133

Elite Prospects: https://www.eliteprospect...yer/733570/bryce-pickford
"Pickford breezes through his minutes. He’s a risk- mitigating defender who keeps attacks to the outside, wins battles for retrievals, and eliminates off-puck threats. From the point, he manages space by stepping in or laterally to pressure before passing or faking and shooting. He flashes some puck carrying and vision on breakouts, too."

The Hockey Writers: https://thehockeywriters....l-draft-prospect-profile/
"Pickford’s ability to break pucks out of the defensive zone is one of his best assets. He transitions play quickly, makes smart passes under pressure, and creates space for his teammates. Despite his offensive nature, he plays a responsible defensive game too, knowing when to step up and when to hold back for the most part.

He went undrafted in 2024, but it surely shouldn’t happen this time around. His production and ability to perform in big moments all make him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams looking for a puck-moving defenseman who can control the game, especially in the offensive zone and on the power play."
- totem

Thanks Totem, appreciate all the profiles you’ve putting up, good reading.

This was in Pope’s piece in the ST’s

People around the league have speculated Martone might not interest the Hawks because his subpar skating and inconsistent play don’t fit their recent track record of focusing on elite skaters with high work ethic. But Davidson suggested he might diversify what he’s looking for this year.

‘‘We do have a lot of players that are similar in their strengths,’’ he said. ‘‘In some respects, I think that’s how you build identity. In others, you can bring in players — if you’ve got enough
- HawkintheD[already] — that it’s not going to take away from the core strength of your team. So you can bring players in that have a different skill set, that are more of a complementary piece. That’s definitely something we’re considering.’’

Davidson also emphasized the Hawks definitively view Bedard and Frank Nazar as NHL centers — they’re not considering moving one to the wing — so a prospect’s likelihood of being able to play center in the future doesn’t matter much to them. That might most affect Desnoyers, who is considered the truest center of the bunch.

When you hear the sound of hooves behind you ,think horses not Zebras . I hope we are thinking Zebras . Martone is the Zebra in this heard of picks . He has the stripes ,Size ,grit ,going to the dirty areas ,great hands ,compete level , agitator . Everything that you need in a playoff performer .Don't overthink it, take Martone 3rd .

This was in Pope’s piece in the ST’s

People around the league have speculated Martone might not interest the Hawks because his subpar skating and inconsistent play don’t fit their recent track record of focusing on elite skaters with high work ethic. But Davidson suggested he might diversify what he’s looking for this year.

‘‘We do have a lot of players that are similar in their strengths,’’ he said. ‘‘In some respects, I think that’s how you build identity. In others, you can bring in players — if you’ve got enough
- HawkintheD[already] — that it’s not going to take away from the core strength of your team. So you can bring players in that have a different skill set, that are more of a complementary piece. That’s definitely something we’re considering.’’

Davidson also emphasized the Hawks definitively view Bedard and Frank Nazar as NHL centers — they’re not considering moving one to the wing — so a prospect’s likelihood of being able to play center in the future doesn’t matter much to themt might most affect Desnoyers, who is considered the truest center of the bunch.

Ok the skating thing us getting old he can skate above average skating and whio in this draft class has flaws all of them. I think this is just lip service if Bedard and nazar are your centers then need big wingers to play with martone fits that bill. So does Frondell.

When you hear the sound of hooves behind you ,think horses not Zebras . I hope we are thinking Zebras . Martone is the Zebra in this heard of picks . He has the stripes ,Size ,grit ,going to the dirty areas ,great hands ,compete level , agitator . Everything that you need in a playoff performer .Don't overthink it, take Martone 3rd .
- oldduffman

I know KFC is looking for skating, but let's say M. Tkachuk was available (2nd worst skater behind Maroon). And we had the assets to grab him, that would be a no-brainer, right? So Martone doesn't skate like Sonja Henie, who cares, obviously he skates well enough to put him in the top 10 in the draft. If one of the top two isn't available, I'm with the Duffer, grab that guy and don't look back.

I know KFC is looking for skating, but let's say M. Tkachuk was available (2nd worst skater behind Maroon). And we had the assets to grab him, that would be a no-brainer, right? So Martone doesn't skate like Sonja Henie, who cares, obviously he skates well enough to put him in the top 10 in the draft. If one of the top two isn't available, I'm with the Duffer, grab that guy and don't look back.
- Matt_Foleys_bro

Martone might be a fine pick. He isn't Matt Tkachuk and probably never hits that level of NHL production, but yeah, not everyone needs to be a burner. Generally the players in the top 5 are better skaters than Martone, but he might be a useful NHL winger with a decent chance to be a first or second line winger.

When you hear the sound of hooves behind you ,think horses not Zebras . I hope we are thinking Zebras . Martone is the Zebra in this heard of picks . He has the stripes ,Size ,grit ,going to the dirty areas ,great hands ,compete level , agitator . Everything that you need in a playoff performer .Don't overthink it, take Martone 3rd .
- oldduffman

Unfortunately there’s lots to think about.

Martone, a big, strong two way, physical forward who has lots of skill and is an exceptional passer. He may be the perfect linemate for Bedard.

Desnoyers and Frondell are both excellent two way players who are being compared with guys like Toews and Barkov. If scouts think either projects to that type of player, I think this is where the pick should be.

Hagens is probably the best offensive player of the aforementioned. If Chicago’s scouts don’t see Desnoyers or Frondell as anything but decent two way players, you eliminate them. If Martone isn’t seen as having high upside you eliminate him. That leaves KD choosing the best available and not having to factor in the intangibles the other players were thought to offer.

What an entertaining series...these goalies are literally under assault.

It seems like 75% of the shots have been high-danger chances. It could be 6-5 with lesser goalies.

Couple more profiles today:

Draft Prospect Profile:
ALEX MISIAK - LHRW
Height: 5-11
Weight: 173
DOB: 06-22-07 Age: 18

2024-25 (various) CZE 48-12-12-24
2024-25 WATERLOO USHL 28-7-11-18 PPG: 0.64 PIM: 12
2025-26 (TBD)

Misiak is the younger brother of CHI 2023 2nd rounder Martin Misiak. Like Martin, he came over to the USHL in his draft year. He also played 48 games in Slovakia with various squads, including some international play and some games in the top Slovak league. Most scouting reports comment on his offensive skill, vision and good motor, whereas his defense is a work in progress. Not clear where he will play next year, but being in one place for the entire year may help his consistency. Wide range of predictions where he might be drafted (mid rounds or later).

Central Scouting Final Ranking: 92
Wiz: 161

Elite Prospects: https://www.eliteprospect...player/619031/alex-misiak

The Athletic: https://www.nytimes.com/a...25-prospects-top-100-cut/
"He plays a driven, middle lane game with decent skill and a nose for the net. He’s not a natural individual creator or playmaker, but he makes plays for his linemates, plays hard and has some secondary skill. In my viewings, he has worked to involve himself in the action and keep his feet moving. I think he’s got the ability to slow it down as well and has more offense than his good but not great numbers with Waterloo and the national team indicate."

The Hockey Writers: https://thehockeywriters....l-draft-prospect-profile/
When Misiak has the puck on his stick, he shows great flashes of high-end skill. Thanks to his strong playmaking and vision, he constantly scans the ice for an open teammate and makes the available pass. His playmaking is not the only thing he can do in the offensive zone, though, as he also possesses a strong shot in his arsenal. In the short time he suited up in a Blackhawks uniform, he showed that his shot was efficient and effective, scoring seven goals on 50 shots on goal. On the defensive side of the puck, Misiak needs to improve his game. He sometimes struggles to pick up his assignments and coasts in the defensive zone. When fully engaged, he shows the capability of playing physically and flashes solid defense.

Draft Prospect Profile:
LUKAS SAWCHYN - RW/LW
Height: 5-10
Weight: 174
DOB: 02-27-07 Age: 18

2024-25 EDMONTON WHL 66-15-40-55 (PO: 5-2-1-3) PPG: 0.83 PIM: 27
2025-26 EDMONTON WHL

Lukas Sawchyn is the younger brother of Gracyn Sawchyn, 2023 Round 2 selection of FLA, and they now play together for WHL Edmonton. Spent a year with Chicago Steel but did not score much. Though smaller than his brother, he plays a remarkably similar game, always around the puck and has good skills in most areas. Always in the middle of the play, goes to the middle of the ice and looks to set up offensive plays. Will need to add some bulk and strength as he moves to higher leagues. Would expect more scoring coming as this was his first year in the WHL. Could become a bargain selection if he slid to 4th round or later in the 2025 draft.

Central Scouting Final Ranking: 69
Wiz:

Elite Prospects: https://www.eliteprospect...ayer/785511/lukas-sawchyn
"Name a handling skill and Sawchyn likely has it. He’s an ankle-breaking, hit-absorbing highlight-reel machine with quick- twitch hands, deception, and perfect first-touch plays. He dangles through and around traffic and then gets low and powers right into opponents’ space. Never content to stick to the perimeter, he uses his skills to power off the wall and get inside for the best chance."

Game Highlights 2024-25: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Xwt8sGlb9s

https://www.nhl.com/news/...l-career-before-nhl-draft

Mason West moving to hockey full time after the football season. He's committed to hockey, but still a chance that he gets injured in the football season. Wonder how that affects his draft position.

Off Topic:
Was able to turn the channel on tv yesterday to watch and hear Steve Stone doing color commentary on a White Sox game replay. First time in a long time.
GREAT color commentator.

What would a trade look like if islanders puvk Shaffer at one then San Jose takes Musa then islanders want hagens at three what players and picks make sense in a realistic trade between the two teams? For me it either starts with Eiserman or Ritchie then go from there. Thoughts?

What would a trade look like if islanders puvk Shaffer at one then San Jose takes Musa then islanders want hagens at three what players and picks make sense in a realistic trade between the two teams? For me it either starts with Eiserman or Ritchie then go from there. Thoughts?
- Scott1977

KD holds the cards. Ask for the moon and negotiate from there. Ritchie, Eiserman and the Isles unprotected first in 2026.

Ritchie is very close to being NHL ready. If Eiserman isn’t a fit for the team he can always be moved.

KD holds the cards. Ask for the moon and negotiate from there. Ritchie, Eiserman and the Isles unprotected first in 2026.

Ritchie is very close to being NHL ready. If Eiserman isn’t a fit for the team he can always be moved.
- paulr

Have you watched Ritchie in the last year? You've been high on him for a while. I've never seen him play (or at least didn't know that I saw him). What does he bring to the table?

https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/nhl-draft/2025-nhl-scouting-combine-mason-west-to-finish-football-career-before-nhl-draft

Mason West moving to hockey full time after the football season. He's committed to hockey, but still a chance that he gets injured in the football season. Wonder how that affects his draft position.
- totem

I am moving him back up on my board. I dropped him down and figured no reason to have him higher if he is going to be football player...

KD holds the cards. Ask for the moon and negotiate from there. Ritchie, Eiserman and the Isles unprotected first in 2026.

Ritchie is very close to being NHL ready. If Eiserman isn’t a fit for the team he can always be moved.
- paulr

That is a two prospec ts for one trade, and I don't know if the those two are big enough boyz to provide the noise to fill KD's latest "looking at different strength in players" comments.

Has KD traded the first pick in the 2nd round for Isaac Howard yet

Have you watched Ritchie in the last year? You've been high on him for a while. I've never seen him play (or at least didn't know that I saw him). What does he bring to the table?
- Chunk

I’ve seen Ritchie play live probably 70 or 80 times in the last four seasons.

Hes pretty big, 6’ 2 and about 200. He’s a strong skater with decent speed, he could use a better starting step. He’s exceptionally strong on his skates, he’s very hard to move off the puck. He stickhandles very well especially in tight spaces. He’s a very good playmaker, his on ice vision is verygood. He can also finish. Ritchie is strong in all three zones, he back checks well.

In his draft year Ritchie stopped getting involved physically. He was still productive but he avoided and never initiated contact. After the season word got out he played the season with a recurring shoulder injury, he dislocated it a number of times. So he’s physically and mentally tough.

And he’s been using the attached shoot out move the last few years.


https://youtube.com/short...BSymg?si=ib_0GZvHBeIVGqq_

That is a two prospec ts for one trade, and I don't know if the those two are big enough boyz to provide the noise to fill KD's latest "looking at different strength in players" comments.
- wiz1901

More simply if the prospects are any good plus the pick they would never do it. If they aren't any good we shouldn't do it. If they grade out "meh," why bother...

That is a two prospec ts for one trade, and I don't know if the those two are big enough boyz to provide the noise to fill KD's latest "looking at different strength in players" comments.
- wiz1901

The ball is in Darche’s court. If he covets Hagens he can pay through the nose or negotiate something more palatable. As I said, ask for the moon and see what happens. KD is in the driver’s seat if anyone wants the number three pick. If other GMs don’t like his asking price I’m sure KD will be happy to select a prospect at number three.

From Chris Peters.

Top prospect measurements at the NHL Scouting Combine so far...

Matthew Schaefer: 6-2, 186
Michael Misa: 6-1, 182
James Hagens: 5-10.5, 186
Anton Frondell, 6-1.25, 204
Porter Martone: 6-3, 204
Roger McQueen: 6-5.25, 198
Radim Mrtka: 6-5.75, 218

#NHLDraft #NHLCombine

Has KD traded the first pick in the 2nd round for Isaac Howard yet
- vabeachbear

Yes please!