5 dynamic forward prospects for Blackhawks fans to know before the 2024 NHL Draft

Julius Miettinen, C/Everett

Listed as a center in Pronman’s rankings and at Tankathon, Elite Prospects also Julius Miettinen as a winger. That said, he will likely factor in as a center before anything else, and one with an imposing 6’3, 207 lbs build, which should be enticing if you’re looking for players who boast ideal size. 

As with Linus Eriksson, Julius Miettinen isn’t ranked as highly as some of the other better forwards listed in this slideshow, but Pronman has him at 26th overall with comparisons to Eetu Luostarinen. He played in Finland’s U20 SM-sarja until 2022-23 before arriving in North America to join the Everett Silvertips of the WHL. 

His first year in the WHL looked promising as Miettinen put up 31 goals and 67 points in 66 games before scoring an additional two goals and four points in nine postseason outings. There is no question Miettinen will be a pick for two-to-three seasons down the line, more likely two if his game continues to develop. 

While the Blackhawks certainly want to build around Connor Bedard with strong, top-six potential talent, depth will also come to the forefront. Luckily for the Hawks, depth is what Miettinen would bring once he’s NHL-ready. He may not evolve into a top-six forward, but he will deepen any lineup he’s on, and it might just be Chicago’s.