Meet Anton Frondell, the Blackhawks prospect making quiet noise in Europe

Many Blackhawks fans were hoping the team would select Michael Misa in the 2025 NHL Draft. But when Misa was drafted second overall by the San Jose Sharks, the Hawks had to make their pick at No. 3 count — and they did just that.

Chicago selected Swedish forward Anton Frondell at No.3, and fans should be excited about what he brings. He's a perfect fit and checks off all the boxes in the Blackhawks' rebuild plan.

Frondell is a 6-foot-1, 200-pound power forward who plays a smart, strong two-way game. He notched 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) in 29 games last season in Sweden's HockeyAllsvenskan league.

He's known for his shot, great positional awareness, and physical style of play. Frondell also works hard on defense, wins puck battles, and is an effective penalty killer.

The main reason why this is a great pick for the Blackhawks is because they've been looking to pair someone with Connor Bedard, and Frondell fits exactly that. The Blackhawks have also been searching for skill and strength. Frondell brings that too. He has the tools to become a top-line forward and help carry the offense.

The one area he needs to work on is his speed. While he's not slow, improving his stride and quickness will be key to competing at the NHL level.

Frondell was part of the Blackhawks' development camp in July and is hoping to earn a roster spot this fall. He told WGN's Charlie Roumeliotis that if he earns a spot, he'll stay in Chicago. If not, he'll return to Sweden to play for Djurgardens. "If I get the chance to take a spot on the team, I will do everything I can to do that," Frondell said. "And if I'm not good enough, if I don't make it, I'm going back to Djurgardens."

For fans still thinking about Misa — don't worry. Anton Frondell is the kind of player who fits exactly what this team needs. He's smart, skilled, competitive, and exciting to watch. Him and Bedard on the same line would be unreal and will connect in all ways possible.

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