Ranking the Chicago Blackhawks Top 25 Prospects: No's. 21-25

No. 24: Ilya Safonov (2021 Draft: Round 6 #172 overall)

Safonov was drafted as an over-age player after spending the 2020-21 season fully in the KHL (Russia). He's a big center (6'4" 205lbs) who plays a strong defensive game, though his skating is a weakness.

The 2022-23 campaign saw Safonov tally 37 points in 64 KHL games for Ak Bars Kazan which made him stand out as someone the Blackhawks would want to bring over to North America.

This past season saw a dip in production for Safonov with 13 goals and 20 points in 67 games. When he was drafted, he was not known for his offensive production, though he has proven to be a solid contributor at the professional level.

Safonov also is among the leadership group for Ak Bars Kazan, he has worn a letter on his jersey for the past two seasons which is looked upon favorably in a prospect. His contract in the KHL expires at the end of the 2024-25 season (subscription needed) which will be interesting to see if he makes the jump to North America.

Ilya Safonov's potential is likely that of a bottom-six center who can possibly play on special teams units.

No. 23: Aidan Thompson (2022 Draft: Round 3 #90 overall)

Aidan Thompson, similar to Ilya Safonov, was drafted as an over-ager at 20 years old after playing in the USHL for the Lincoln Stars.

Thompson is the first on this list to have been drafted by Kyle Davidson, and he has the tools of a prototypical Davidson draft pick. He is a strong, fast skater who plays with a high motor and a strong two-way game.

At the University of Denver, Thompson tallied 30 points in 44 games, a drop in production from his 32 points in 32 games during the 2022-23 season.

After winning the NCAA Championship with Denver, Thompson is returning for his junior season. He will be 23-years old when his season ends, and it could be argued a prospect of his age should be transitioning to the AHL this season.

He will look to be one of Denver's top players as they look to defend their championship. If he takes a step forward, he could possibly join the IceHogs roster toward the end of next season.