Three Chicago Blackhawks Prospects Close to Making the Jump from College

Aidan Thompson

Aidan Thompson is in an interesting situation as he finishes his sophomore season at the University of Denver (NCAA). Selected with the 90th pick in the third round of the 2022 NHL Draft, Thompson was an overage player who was eligible for the previous two drafts but went undrafted. He entered his draft-plus-one year as a 20-year-old freshman with Denver, where he tallied 32 points in 32 games on a contending squad.

This season, Thompson's offense has seen a dip with 28 points in 38 games, but has been more consistent throughout the year after a slow start. The 5'11 170lbs centerman fits the mold of a Kyle Davidson draft pick, playing a faced paced game with high intensity and defensive responsibility.

At 22 years old, Thompson is around the age when a lot of college prospects begin to take the next step into professional hockey. Ultimately, his NHL future will depend on how well his game translates to the pros in Rockford (AHL), which is where he will likely play for a season or two.

With a lot of young talent coming to the IceHogs next season, Thompson could be a part of that youth movement. His game is well-rounded and he has the capabilities of a bottom-six forward in the NHL, and he may be the next prospect in line to sign their entry-level contract.