Caleb Desnoyers finds his way into possibly being drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks

The 2025 NHL draft is quickly approaching, with just over one month until teams will make their way up to the podium and select who may become the next star of their franchise.

This year, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves with the third-overall pick, and there is no clear-cut option for them at that spot.

The draft seems to open up after the first two picks, assuming Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa are selected in the top two.

However, some believe Misa may be available at third overall, though the odds of that happening are not high. This leaves the Blackhawks with a decision to make between Porter Martone, Anton Frondell, and James Hagens.

However, another player has entered the conversation as a potential top-five pick.

Caleb Desnoyers of the Moncton Wildcats in the QMJHL had an excellent draft year in the junior ranks and looks to be a sought-after player in this year's draft as a skillful two-way center.

Desnoyers may not be the popular pick at this spot, as it seems the majority of fans are hoping for Martone to be the Blackhawks' selection, but the overall game he brings to the table has intrigued teams all season long.

With 84 points in 56 games this season, Desnoyers proved himself as a more than capable scorer before having an electrifying 30 points in 19 playoff games. Though, one thing to note is he plays in the QMJHL which is largely considered to not have the same talent level as the other two Canadian junior leagues (OHL and WHL). Going into this draft, Desnoyers is set to be the first QMJHL player drafted in the first round since Nathan Gaucher of the Anaheim Ducks in 2022.

While the overall competition level in his league may leave some teams skeptical, there is no denying the impact Desnoyers has when he is on the ice. He is a strong skater who uses that speed to be a presence in both the offensive and defensive zones. His passing is among his strong suits as he has above average vision that helps him generate plays and high-danger chances.

At 6-foot-one and 172 pounds, it is no secret that Desnoyers could benefit from bulking up before jumping into professional hockey. Given the style he plays as a two-way center, putting on more muscle will be crucial for him at the next level when facing much stronger opponents.

Desnoyers seems to be a player who could fit perfectly in a team's top six as a potential second line center. While that may seem to be a low projection for a top-five pick, his skillset and understanding of the game at both ends brings reason to believe his potential could go even higher than what it is at right now.

Whether or not Desnoyers is the best player available, on paper, for the Blackhawks, there is no denying that recent draft projections have him almost safely slotted as a top-seven pick and could be someone targeted by the Blackhawks come draft day.