Two years after selecting Connor Bedard first overall and one year removed from taking Artyom Levshunov at No. 2, the Chicago Blackhawks once again find themselves near the top of the NHL Draft board—this time with the third overall pick. While the team made efforts to move up for Macklin Celebrini, another trade-up attempt might prove too costly, especially with the potential to secure a franchise-caliber player at No. 3.
General Manager Kyle Davidson has shown an aggressive approach to drafting in recent years, but there’s no guarantee he’ll trade up again. With strong talent projected to be available at third overall, it might be wise for the Blackhawks to hold onto their pick—unless a deal for an already-established NHL player materializes, as recent rumors suggest.
Assuming Chicago keeps the third pick, several exciting prospects could be in play. One of the most promising is Swedish forward Anton Frondell, who just turned 18. Despite playing against older competition in HockeyAllsvenskan, Sweden’s second-tier league, Frondell posted impressive numbers: 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points in 29 games.
Those stats stack up well against current NHL stars who once played in the same league. William Nylander recorded 27 points in 35 games at a similar age, and David Pastrnak had 24 in 36. Frondell’s scoring pace of 0.86 points per game outshines both, suggesting he could have significant NHL potential.
Although Frondell’s numbers don’t match the flashy stats often seen in junior leagues like the OHL or QMJHL, his success against stronger, older competition hints at a smoother transition to the pro level. If the Blackhawks stay at No. 3 and select Frondell, they might just land the best player in the draft when all is said and done.
