3 Chicago Blackhawks prospects with a strong chance of playing NHL games next season

The most recent set of games for the Chicago Blackhawks have been some of the more entertaining efforts from the team all season, thanks to the youth movement.

Fans are now seeing the young talent integrated into the lineup even more as of late, with 2024 second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov being the most recent to make his debut in the team's matchup against the Colorado Avalanche.

These exciting changes to the lineup have resulted in the Blackhawks playing much better as a team with a more competitive spirit behind each effort whether ending in a win or a loss.

This has led fans wanting more and wondering who the next players could be entering the mix and getting their chance to prove themselves in the NHL.

The Blackhawks have been patient with their young players and are not shy to let them over-ripen in the AHL to ensure they are truly ready for NHL action. However, there has been some pull-back on this mindset with players such as Levshunov getting called up much earlier than expected.

Certain prospects such as Sam Rinzel, Ryan Greene, Dominic James, etc. will likely be among those starting next year in Rockford (AHL). A player like Rinzel could make a strong argument to get NHL games, though it would be expected for him to get reps as a top player in Rockford first as he transitions to the professional game.

These are three Chicago Blackhawks' prospects who have a fighting chance at seeing NHL games next season:

Ilya Safonov

Safonov is a player who was seen as a long shot when he was drafted but has established himself as a potential bottom-six player for the future.

The former sixth-round pick in 2021 is nearing the conclusion of his KHL season with Ak Bars Kazan, an organization he's been with since the 2018-19 season.

He's become a solid contributor in the KHL over recent seasons, the 23-year old has 21 points in 48 games this season while also being a plus twenty in the plus/minus category.

While not a high-end scorer, the six-foot-four inch center brings a reliable defensive game with a physical edge which are all traits that could fit well into the Blackhawks' bottom-six when he comes over to North America.

With there being some potential roster spots opening up after this season, Safonov could find himself battling for a place on the team out of camp as a physical shutdown center.