A Recent NHL Mock Draft for Blackhawks Fans to Consider (Especially After the Top Two Picks)

The Chicago Blackhawks are entering a pivotal offseason as they look to accelerate their rebuild with high draft capital. With the NHL Draft Lottery results now finalized and the top two picks secured by other teams, Blackhawks fans are turning their attention to what realistic options remain at No. 3 overall—and beyond. While Connor Bedard and Adam Fantilli went 1-2 in the actual 2023 draft, the 2024 class presents a different landscape, one where Chicago could still land a transformative talent.

This mock draft evaluates the most plausible scenarios for the Blackhawks at No. 3, based on current prospect rankings, team needs and insider reporting from NHL.com and Sportsnet. We’ll break down the top candidates, analyze fit, and project how Chicago’s selection could shape its future core.

Why the No. 3 Pick Matters More Than Ever for Chicago

After finishing 28th in the league during the 2023-24 season, the Blackhawks improved their draft odds but fell just outside the top two in the lottery. That leaves them with the third-overall selection—a slot that has historically produced franchise-altering players. In the last decade, picks at No. 3 have included Nathan MacKinnon (2013), Aaron Ekblad (2014), and Jesperi Kotkaniemi (2018), showing both elite upside and variability.

Chicago’s current roster lacks a true No. 1 center and a dynamic offensive defenseman—two areas where the 2024 draft class offers strong solutions. General Manager Kyle Davidson has emphasized adding “high-skill, high-compete” players, making this pick critical for shaping the next wave of Blackhawks talent.

Top Prospects in Play at No. 3

1. Macklin Celebrini – C, Boston University

Celebrini has emerged as the consensus top alternative to the top two picks, combining elite hockey sense with two-way maturity beyond his years. At 6’0” and 185 lbs, he may not project as a physical enforcer, but his anticipation, playmaking, and defensive responsibility draw comparisons to a younger Jonathan Toews.

He led all NCAA freshmen in points per game (2.15) and won the Hobey Baker Award as the nation’s best college player—a rare feat for a freshman. His ability to elevate linemates and control tempo at even strength makes him an ideal fit for Chicago’s require for a true first-line center.

Why he fits the Blackhawks: Celebrini’s leadership and NHL-ready IQ could fast-track Chicago’s rebuild. He wouldn’t just fill a hole—he could develop into the face of the franchise sooner than expected.

2. Zeev Buium – D, University of Denver

If Chicago opts to address its blue line need, Buium stands out as the most complete defenseman available. A smooth skater with elite puck-moving instincts, he logged over 25 minutes per game for Denver as a sophomore and led all NCAA blueliners in points per game (1.28).

His offensive upside is evident, but it’s his defensive positioning and willingness to block shots that elevate his projection. Scouts compare his game to a younger Moritz Seider—someone who can quarterback the power play while logging tough minutes.

Why he fits the Blackhawks: With Seth Jones aging and Alec Regula still developing, Chicago lacks a true top-pairing puck mover. Buium could step into that role within two seasons, especially if paired with a stay-at-home partner.

3. Carter Yakemchuk – D, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)

Yakemchuk represents the high-upside, boom-or-bust option. A 6’2” defenseman with a heavy shot and physical edge, he led WHL defensemen in goals (16) and points (48) despite missing time with injury. His release and net-front presence draw comparisons to a younger Erik Karlsson in offensive zones.

However, questions remain about his defensive consistency and decision-making under pressure. He projects as a potential No. 1 power-play quarterback but may need time to refine his all-game impact.

Why he fits the Blackhawks: If Chicago wants to add a dynamic offensive weapon from the blue line—someone who can generate shots and drive possession—Yakemchuk offers the highest ceiling in the draft.

4. Cole Eiserman – C/LW, USA U18

Eiserman slipped slightly in midseason rankings due to injury concerns but remains one of the most prolific goal-scorers in recent draft memory. He scored 82 goals in 54 games for the USA U18 team—a video-game number that highlights his elite shot and net-front instincts.

While his playmaking and skating need refinement, his ability to find open ice and finish chances is rare. He projects as a top-six winger with 30-goal potential, possibly more if he develops into a play-driving forward.

Why he fits the Blackhawks: Chicago’s wing depth is thin beyond Lukas Reichel and Frank Nazar. Eiserman could provide an immediate scoring boost and complement a playmaking center like Celebrini or Korczak.

How the Blackhawks Might Approach the Pick

According to The Athletic, Davidson has told scouts to prioritize “impact players who can elevate teammates”—a phrase that favors Celebrini or Buium over pure shooters. However, with the team already showing interest in adding offensive firepower, Eiserman or Yakemchuk cannot be ruled out.

Trade scenarios also remain possible. If a team ahead of Chicago (say, Anaheim at No. 2) prefers a defenseman, Chicago could potentially trade down to acquire additional assets while still selecting a top-tier forward like Eiserman or Celebrini.

Key Takeaways for Blackhawks Fans

• The No. 3 pick offers a chance to draft a franchise cornerstone, whether at center (Celebrini), defense (Buium or Yakemchuk), or wing (Eiserman).
• Macklin Celebrini is the safest, most NHL-ready option and directly addresses Chicago’s greatest need: a true No. 1 center.
• Zeev Buium provides elite puck-moving ability from the blue line—a long-term solution to Chicago’s lack of a top-pairing offensive defenseman.
• Carter Yakemchuk and Cole Eiserman offer higher boom-or-bust profiles but could deliver elite offensive upside if they develop.
• Chicago’s decision will hinge on whether they prioritize immediate need (center) or long-term asset accumulation (defense or wing with trade potential).

Looking Ahead: What This Pick Means for the Rebuild

Regardless of who Chicago selects at No. 3, this pick represents a critical inflection point in the rebuild. The Blackhawks have not drafted a top-three talent since Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews in 2003 and 2006, respectively. Landing a player of Celebrini’s or Buium’s caliber could shorten the timeline to competitiveness by years.

More importantly, it signals that the Davidson-led front office is executing its plan with precision—using draft capital not just to accumulate picks, but to build a core capable of sustaining success.

For fans weary of losing seasons, the promise of a true impact player arriving via the draft offers renewed hope. And with the top two picks off the board, the Blackhawks’ opportunity to make a franchise-altering selection at No. 3 has never been more meaningful.