Blackhawks take two big swings in the second round

Chicago Blackhawks fans had to wait an extra day before any new players were added to the prospect pool. For the first time under Kyle Davidson, the team had no picks in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft after trading the fourth overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres for defenseman Bowen Byram. The wait didn’t take long as the Blackhawks had two of the first five picks of the second round.

No. 34 – Xavier Villeneuve (LHD) - Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

Many reports before the draft said the Blackhawks would look to build up their organizational depth on defense. They did that with the 34th overall pick, taking defenseman Xavier Villeneuve out of the QMJHL. This was a guy that many mock drafts had going in the first round. Davidson was more than happy that he fell into the second round.

There is a lot to like about Villeneuve, who many call the most dynamic defenseman of the 2026 draft class. He has super quick feet that he uses to move around defenders with ease. His scoring potential is through the roof, but he needs work with his decision-making and puck management.

Villeneuve is an elite power-play quarterback with shades of Lane Hutson. His offensive upside makes up for his defensive weakness. He has plenty of time to improve on his size, strength, and defense. Some are worried about his 5'11, and 162-pound frame. He’s an inch taller than Matt Grzelyck and will fill out a bit before turning pro.

No. 35 – Ryan Roobroeck (LW) – Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

Davidson didn’t want to wait to pick again at 37, so he traded that pick and his fourth-rounder to the New Jersey Devils for pick No. 35. The pick was used on Ryan Roobroeck, a 6’2, 209-pound winger who brings size, energy, and offensive skill. He can score from both in close and at a distance. Like Villeneuve, he’s a high-risk/high-reward pick.

Roobroeck has the talent to be a first-round pick. He started the season as a potential top-10 pick, but fell out of favor due to concerns about his engagement and work ethic. There were similar concerns about Alex DeBrincat in his draft year, and things worked out pretty well for him. His ability and instincts are good enough to be a top-six forward, but he needs to get his drive to catch up.

Personally, I like both of these picks. They are big swings that could pay off with two big-time contributors. With one of the deepest prospect pools in the NHL, Davidson can afford to make some more risky picks. Time will tell if either Villeneuve or Roobroeck becomes a boom or a bust.

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