The 32 best NHL Draft prospects Blackhawks fans can't afford to overlook

9. Radim Mrtka, defense (WHL)

In his first North American season, Mrtka impressed many scouts with his ability to maneuver around the ice so well for someone his size. The 6-foot-6, 216-pound defender took strides in his puck-moving and shows lots of untapped potential as someone who can affect the game with both their size and skating ability. With 35 points in 43 games, Mrtka has shown promise as a mobile, puck-moving defenseman.

10. Roger McQueen, center (WHL)

Roger McQueen is a player whose potential seems sky-high, yet other factors at play hold him back from being higher on the list.

McQueen is a 6-foot-5 center with tons of offensive potential who can truly dominate play when he is at his best. However, this season saw him play only 17 games due to a Pars fracture of the spine which has left teams worried about his health. While that may be a risk regarding his development, the potential McQueen has is some of the highest in the draft if he can put it all together at the next level.

11. Carter Bear, winger (WHL)

There aren't many players in this draft that bring the work ethic and scoring ability that Carter Bear does. The young winger tallied 82 points in 56 WHL games this season before having his campaign ended by a partially lacerated Achilles. While that injury could raise concerns, Bear will undoubtedly be a first-round pick as his high-end work ethic and skill make him a problem for opposing teams. His aggressive play style is one that many teams will value, especially in the playoffs one day.

12. Justin Carbonneau, winger (QMJHL)

Another player whose ranking is lowered due to the lack of consistent competition in the QMJHL is Justin Carbonneau. The 6-foot-1 winger plays a fast game with one of the better shots in the draft, which was on display this season with 46 goals and 89 points in 62 games. His speed and craftiness with the puck make him a threat to defenders, though there is room to grow for him to better utilize his size and fine-tune his play.

13. Brady Martin, center (OHL)

Brady Martin seems like he will almost certainly be selected in the top 10 due to his physical play being among the best outside of the NHL. With 72 points in 57 games this season, Martin proved there is more offense to his game than most thought, which is why his draft stock has increased recently. His physicality is what he is known for, as he is a force in both the offensive and defensive zones due to his work ethic and checking ability.

14: Logan Hensler, defense (NCAA)

Logan Hensler may not be the flashiest pick in the draft, but he may be the steadiest defenseman in the draft with sound defensive instincts and a reliable game that should translate well in the NHL. As a freshman at the University of Wisconsin, Hensler tallied 12 points in 32 games. He is a strong skater who improved as the season went on as he became more acclimated to the physicality of the NCAA. He may be considered a safe pick, but Hensler looks the part of a steady second-pair defenseman in the future.

15. Kashawn Aitcheson, defense, (OHL)

Kashawn Aitcheson has seen his draft stock skyrocket this season as an incredibly hard-working player who is already a favorite of his coach and will continue to be in the future. The 6-foot-1, left-handed defender had a breakout season for the Barrie Colts with 59 points in 64 games, which included 26 goals.

Aitcheson is a relentless player who never gives up on a play and isn't afraid to play with an edge. His character and work ethic are sure to excite whichever team selects him.

16. Lynden Lakovic, winger (WHL)

After a breakout performance with 58 points in 47 games this season, Lynden Lakovic has solidified himself as a first-round talent in this year's draft. The 6-foot-4 winger is strong with the puck on his stick and continues to develop his scoring ability in the WHL. His combination of size and skating is what gives him a high potential if he can further elevate his game.