Chicago Blackhawks Prospects: Projecting 2017 Defensemen

Luc Snuggerud

At a time when the Blackhawks’ prospect pool was a little more full, the Luc Snuggerud pick went under the radar. Since he was drafted, he’s emerged as one of the best defensive prospects in the system. Snuggerud played at Eden Prairie High School for most of high school before he was drafted, the same team former Blackhawk Nick Leddy played for. He had 139 points in 134 career games in the USHS before transitioning to the USHL for 7 games. From there, Snuggerud played for the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He developed into a stud defenseman in the NCAA, tallying 65 points in 113 career games. Snuggerud also impressed in the 13 games he played for Rockford after he signed an ELC with the Blackhawks in May.

Snuggerud has lots of potential, and still has time to produce into a solid second or third pairing defenseman. He’s an offensive-minded player who distributes the puck exceptionally, especially on the rush. His best skill is joining in on the attack and being the quarterback of the power play. Like the others that have been mentioned, he has to strengthen his defense a little more. In an interview with The Athletic’s Scott Powers, Snuggerud even admitted to having improve in some areas of his game. Adding a little more size can also help him a bit, as well. Overall, this is another guy the Blackhawks have that can emerge with the team in the near future. Luc Snuggerud has a great chance at making the Opening Night roster in September.

Henri Jokiharju

This was one of the big steals on the 2017 NHL Draft, in my opinion, even though he was projected to be drafted around where the Blackhawks picked him (29th overall). Henri Jokiharju was a dominant player at the beginning of his career in Finland while playing for Jr. A and Jr. B teams. Two years ago, he scored 30 points in 37 games with Jokerit U18, as well as 6 points in 10 playoff games. With Tappara U20, Jokiharju tallied 29 points in 47 games, which is mighty impressive. He really came into his own when he joined the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL, proving the ability he has. He had 48 points in 71 games, good for second in scoring by defenseman on Portland behind Oilers prospect Caleb Jones.

Jokiharju’s biggest asset is his skating. His solid speed puts him at a great advantage over others. He also transitions smoothly from forwards to backwards when defending. His mobility helps him power past others and carry the puck into the offensive zone, showcasing his offensive instincts and excellent passing skills. Defensively, Jokiharju is more developed than others his age. He’s not very physical, and much like Duncan Keith, gets his stick in shooting and passing lanes. Despite not being the biggest defenseman on the ice (6’1”, 187 lbs), he’s not easily intimidated by opposing players. Henri Jokiharju easily has the highest ceiling out of all of the defensive prospects the Blackhawks have. While he most likely won’t make the transition to The Show this season, he has a very good chance to do so next season.

Next: Chicago Blackhawks: Notes from Day Two of Prospect Camp

We want to hear from you guys! What do you think of the Chicago Blackhawks prospect camp so far? Who has the best chance of making the roster for Opening Night?