These 3 Chicago Blackhawks' Prospects Have Quietly Had Very Promising Seasons

Alex Pharand

Pharand's game this season has reached new heights as he excels in what will be his final season of junior hockey.

Drafted in the fourth-round of the 2023 NHL Draft, Pharand's standout traits were his size, skating, and overall compete level.

Standing at 6-foot-3 inches and 192 pounds, Pharand brings size that is not in abundance throughout the young forwards in the system. His offensive game has taken a step forward this season with 43 points in 40 games for the Sudbury Wolves (OHL), already surpassing his point total of 30 points in 68 games last season.

Pharand's breakout season makes his stock rise dramatically in the Blackhawks' system after having a step-back last season where he posted less points than the season prior.

As a big forward who brings speed and energy to the ice, Pharand's offense taking that next step could be huge for his development going forward as he prepares to conclude his junior hockey career.

Next season, Pharand will join the IceHogs to being playing professional hockey. He will likely spend at least a couple of seasons in the AHL before getting serious looks at the NHL level, but his style of play could allow him to rise even further in the rankings.