Colangelo, a projected second-round pick, recorded 58 points in 44 games for the Chicago Steel in 2019-20 to lead the USHL with 1.32 points per game.
The Chicago Blackhawks are interested in Chicago Steel forward Sam Colangelo for the upcoming 2020 NHL Draft, according to The Athletic’s Scott Powers. Colangelo’s 28 goals and 58 points last season both were ranked third of all USHL skaters, and the Stoneham, Massachusetts native also led the league with a plus-32 plus/minus rating.
Colangelo, still 18-years-old until Dec. 26, could be available when the Blackhawks are on the clock with the 46th overall selection. Most scouts have the Northeastern University commit going in the late-first to mid-second round, with TSN’s Bob McKenzie ranking Colangelo 41st in his final 2020 NHL Draft ranking. With a sizeable 6-foot-2, 207-pound frame, Colangelo fits what the Blackhawks are trying to add to their current forward group. Size AND skill. Hence Kirby Dach being drafted over Alex Turcotte, Dylan Cozens, etc. last year.
On the offensive side of things, Colangelo has been described as a power forward who frequently uses his size to get to the dirty areas and score goals. Unlike Dach, he is a more of a goal scorer than a playmaker and likes to shoot the puck from all areas of the ice. Colangelo’s quick hands give him the ability to change angles and deceive opposing goaltenders.
Defensively, Colangelo can play a gritty game and is willing to throw a hit to separate his man from the puck. He has sound overall hockey IQ and uses his stick to break up passing lanes and force turnovers. Colangelo has also spent time on the penalty kill in the past, which could make him more versatile as a professional.
Overall, if Colangelo can continue to get stronger during his time at Northeastern University, then he has top-six upside at the NHL level. Colangelo has the skill to be an effective offensive player, but he also possesses enough speed, physicality, and defensive play to be a role player at the next level.
Two players Colangelo has been compared to by scouts: Blake Wheeler and Auston Matthews.
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