Five Blackhawks rookies that are leading the charge for Chicago

Ian Mitchell

Ian Mitchell seems to be making the transition to the NHL nicely. Through 14 games this season Mitchell is still waiting for his first goal, but he has registered an assist. The ‘Hawks have given Adam Boqvist or Duncan Keith the majority of the power-play time this season, but as the year progresses I would not mind watching Mitchell quarterback the ‘Hawks power play.

Mitchell is an offensively minded defenseman. This season is in large part for him to get comfortable in this new environment and adapt his game to the NHL. Colliton seems to be given him as many chances to succeed as possible, as he has the second-most starts in the offensive zone compared to the other defensemen on this team. The only defenseman with a higher percentage of faceoff starts in the offensive zone is Adam Boqvist with 56% compared to Mitchell with 50%.

Brandon Hagel

Hagel is another rookie finding his way in the NHL. While he has not scored a goal yet, he does have a few assists and 12 hits this season. Watching Hagel play reminds me of Andrew Shaw or Ryan Hartman back five or so years ago. I think a player like Hagel definitely makes the bottom six better and the ‘Hawks are lucky to have him out there right now.

With players like Lucas Wallmark out because of COVID and other players missing time along the way, having a player like Brandon Hagel around through the taxi squad is a huge benefit for the team.

It is only a matter of time before Hagel and Mitchell score their first goals. How long do you think before they net the first goals of their careers?