Blackhawks Draft Profile: A Q&A with Adam Fantilli

The Blackhawks are going into rebuild mode. So to say that they could get a top 3 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft is not crazy. I had the pleasure of getting to ask some questions to one of the best young up and coming players the hockey world will soon know about: Adam Fantilli, Chicago Steel centermen. 

Fantilli, 17, has played his last 2 seasons with the Steel in the USHL. Through 103 games with them, he has 110 points, averaging just over a point per game. His skating ability, mixed with his elite level offensive touch are just two things that make him one of the best prospects for the 2023 draft. 

The Blackhawks snagging Adam in the top 3 would be a match made in heaven. His ability to carry a line offensively, mixed with a very solid two way game make him an ideal prospect that the team can build around. His natural talent and ability make him one of the most exciting players to watch, and he is almost guaranteed to be an NHL superstar very soon.

Without further adieu; here are the questions and answers!

Growing up, who did you look up too, whether that be a family member or a player you watched, and why? 

Adam: I think like most kids, I can’t pick just one person. I’d have to pick my whole family for different reasons. My father because of the example he been with me in my career every step of the way, my mother for her sacrifice and determination and my brother for giving me constant competition on and off the ice. 

You’ve played with some really strong players, is there any teammate that stands out as far as work ethic that you try to model your game after?

Adam: I have been extremely fortunate to have played with some amazing players the last couple years in Sean Farrell, Josh Doan, Joe Miller and Jackson Blake. Being on a line with Sean and Josh for the back half of the 2020-21 season was really big for me because of how they took me under their wings and taught me so much about parts of the game I didn’t necessarily focus on or have as strong points. They really helped bring my game to another level come playoff time. And this season, playing with Joe and Jackson was extremely enjoyable because of the chemistry we formed and the creativity we were allowed to have almost all season long. 

Did you have a favourite player, team growing up? Why?

Adam: I grew up in a Boston Bruins household so naturally that is my favourite team and it’s who I cheer for. But I’ve had many favourite players growing up, when I was younger I couldn’t keep my eyes off of Marc Savard and today I watch tons of film on Nate MacKinnon, Auston Matthews and Patrice Bergeron. 

You’re one of, if not the best player available in the 2023 draft. Do you feel like there’s any pressure on you? If so, how do you deal with that yourself?

Adam: I try not to really think about the draft too much to be completely honest. I prefer to keep my head down and out of the media because for me, I just try to consistently better my game and become the best player I can be.

A huge thank you to Adam Fantilli and the entire Chicago Steel organization for this opportunity. Best of luck to Adam.