Ranking the Chicago Blackhawks' Top 25 Prospects: No's. 16-20

No. 17: Paul Ludwinski (2022 Draft: Round 2 #39 overall)

Paul Ludwinski has a lot of traits that will likely give him a chance in the NHL. He is a very fast skater who is relentless on the forecheck with an offensive game that started coming along better this past season.

As captain of the Kingston Frontenacs (OHL), Ludwinski had 69 points in 60 games and six points in five playoff games. He joined the IceHogs after his season ended in the OHL, going pointless in five games.

Ludwinski is a player who the Blackhawks are very high on due to his work ethic, speed, and leadership abilities. He is a strong competitor who carries himself well on and off the ice and is always working to improve.

His play style could reward him at the pro level, and he is going to be an exciting player to keep track of this season with the IceHogs. Ludwinski is always involved in the play which could make him rise even higher in the prospect pool.

Luwinski remains at No. 17 on this list for now, but his potential shows NHL promise. A good year in the AHL could change everything for the young center.

No. 16: Gavin Hayes (2022 Draft: Round 3 #66 overall)

Gavin Hayes comes in at No. 16 on this list, showing the amount of depth the Blackhawks have in their prospect pool.

Hayes has been a strong scorer at the junior level ever since he was drafted. His production in the OHL has continuously gone up every season, with him scoring 36 points in 27 games with the Flint Firebirds, and then adding 40 points in 28 games after a trade to the Soo Greyhounds.

The skill is apparent with Hayes, he is a player who knows how to put up points and has done so with ease in the OHL, earning him a spot on the 2024 World Juniors roster for team USA. During the tournament, Hayes tallied 2 assists in 7 games on the gold medal winning team.

Hayes' skating is not his strong suit, though his size (six-foot, one inch) and hockey IQ are what make up for it. The question is going to be how well his game translates to the pros.

This season, Hayes will debut with the IceHogs for his professional rookie season. If he is able to produce at a good rate in Rockford, Gavin Hayes could skyrocket up the depth chart for the Blackhawks.