Blackhawks Select Adam Boqvist With 8th Pick In NHL Draft

The Chicago Blackhawks had a terrible season in 2018-19 which left them in the position that they are currently in. The Blackhawks own the 8th pick and 27th pick in the 1st Round of the NHL Draft.

Blackhawks’ GM Stan Bowman was active before the draft and tried to move up from the 8th spot.

Bowman on movement in the draft order: “We’ve had discussions about moving up…” but also the Top 7 teams are not as interested in moving down, due to uncertainty after the Top 2 spots.

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) June 21, 2018

Bowman was unable to convince the teams who are drafting ahead of the Blackhawks to swap picks in a trade. However, StanBo is more than confident that the team will get a difference maker with the 8th pick in the 2018 NHL Draft. Someone that can come in on day one and make an immediate impact.

Bowman on this weekend’s draft and the Top 10 pick: “We expect to get a really special player there. We’re not tied to any specific position.”

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) June 21, 2018

Well, Stan opted to address their biggest glaring hole on the roster by selecting Swedish defenseman, Adam Boqvist.

What Does Adam Boqvist Bring To The Blackhawks?

Adam Boqvist is a 17-year-old right-handed defenseman who has elite skills on the offensive end of the ice. Boqvist often draws comparisons to another elite defenseman, Erik Karlsson.

Boqvist has drawn comparisons to Erik Karlsson. But he’s a way off.

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) June 23, 2018

Adam Boqvist is one of many scouts’ favorite prospects in the draft this year. Curtis Joe of eliteprospects.com gave an elaborate analysis on Boqvist’s game. Joe describes Boqvist,

“A dynamic offensive defenseman that can carry plays with the puck on his stick. A highly mobile and nimble skater that moves with fluidity, balance, and confidence. Utilizes an active stick and creates turnovers frequently. Could be more proactive in his own end, but has shown progression in understanding lanes and reading unfolding plays; most of his best defensive work comes through the neutral zone, as there is a lot less time and space to work with, and it is in those moments that Boqvist shines.”

I think it is pretty clear that Adam Boqvist is going to help out immensely whenever he is on the ice. The Blackhawks can use all the help they can get because the team looked absolutely lost last season. Curtis Joe then goes into greater detail about Adam Boqvist’s skillset.

“Offensively, Boqvist is electric; he has the toolbox of a top line forward. Slick puckhandling ability paired with excellent vision and positional awareness makes him a dangerous threat every time he is on the ice. He also takes advantage of the attention and bodies he draws towards himself in creating space for teammates. All-in-all, Adam Boqvist is a complete offensive defenseman who knows how to get the puck from point A to the back of the net, and can make it happen all by himself.”

Sure, words are nice, but visual evidence is even better. Don’t worry, I have you covered. Check out Adam Boqvist’s offensive prowess firsthand in this highlight reel from the 2018 IIHF U18 tournament as a member of Team Sweden. Keep an eye on number 3’s soft hands, pinpoint shot accuracy, puck handling, skating, and great ice awareness.

Where Does Adam Boqvist Fit?

It is only a matter of time before we see Adam Boqvist donning a Blackhawks sweater and playing at the Madhouse on Madison. With the type of offensive skills that Boqvist has, I think he could fit well on a couple different lines.

Right now, I think Boqvist would complement Duncan Keith very nicely, and could very well be the replacement for Keith down the road. However, if head coach Joel Quenneville decides to veto that pairing, there are a couple different line pairings that I have in mind.

I think Boqvist could also play well alongside Brent Seabrook. Seabrook is slowing down and could use a linemate who can help prevent odd-man rushes. It also wouldn’t hurt to be able to learn some valuable tips from both of the alternate captains in the process. If Quenneville opts to not give the young Swede meaningful minutes on the ice, then I think a 2nd or 3rd line pairing of Erik Gustafsson and Adam Boqvist could also make sense.

Although selecting Adam Boqvist does help the team, I do not think this pick will help the team much in this upcoming season. Keep in mind that Boqvist is only 17 years old and will need some time to adjust to playing North American hockey. Blackhawks’ fans may not see him for 2 or 3 years.

Adam Boqvist said at the draft combine that he’s 2-3 years away from being NHL-ready. “I need to work on everything because it’s the best league in the world. But I think in 2-3 years, I hope I can play in the NHL.”

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) June 23, 2018

However, I am keeping an open mind when it comes to the Adam Boqvist pick and you should as well. Boqvist has all of the tools to be your new favorite player when he does get his shot with the Blackhawks.

Welcome to Chicago, Mr. Boqvist!