Chicago Blackhawks: Top 10 Prospects Entering 2018
1. Henri Jokiharju, D [19 years old]
Stats:
Portland Winterhawks (WHL) – 63 gp, 12 g, 59 a, 71 p (12 pgp, 3 g, 5 a, 8 p). 6 PPG (26 A), 1 GWG, 211 SOG, 1.13 pts/g [1 PPG (1 A), 43 SOG, .67 pts/g].
Boqvist and Henri Jokiharju have very similar ceilings. Both are believed to be future first pairing defensemen for the Chicago Blackhawks, though the former may be the number one guy and Jokiharju the number two.
They’ll still play very similar minutes and will likely both get opportunities on both special teams units. Both are also, at this point in time, shoo-ins to play for the Chicago Blackhawks at some point in the future.
The main difference thus becomes, who is more NHL ready. Jokiharju has Boqvist beat in this category and thus becomes the Blackhawks’ number one prospect (at least right now). He might be playing in the NHL as soon as next year, with the Chicago Blackhawks blue line continuing to look unimpressive and the need for more talent. It’s not known what role Jokiharju would have (likely third pairing, possibly being sheltered by Brent Seabrook), but the belief is that he could be in the NHL this season.
Next. Blackhawks All-Time Dream Team. dark
He did quite well in the WHL these past two seasons and before that was a difference maker in the Finnish Jr. A SM-liiga. He was tied for third in defensive scoring in the WHL, 15th in goals by a defenseman, second in blue line assists, and was fifth in points per game. He was tied for 20th in points per game in the playoffs. Jokiharju is excellent and could be a difference maker this season.