Chicago Blackhawks: Top 10 Prospects Entering 2018

5. Dylan Sikura, RW [23 years old]

Stats:

Northeastern University (NCAA) – 35 gp, 22 g, 32 a, 54 p. 14 PPG, 1 SHG, 4 GWG.

Chicago Blackhawks – 5 gp, 0 g, 3 a, 3 p.

Dylan Sikura is the best forward prospect the Chicago Blackhawks have in terms of NHL readiness and was one of the best players in the NCAA last season. He was third in scoring, second in points per game, and tied for sixth in assists.

A large portion of Sikura’s 22 goals with Northeastern came on the power play, though he didn’t get much time there for the Blackhawks last season. He is more of a playmaker than goal scorer, but he does have a scoring touch.

Sikura is also an excellent skater, one that adds speed to the Blackhawks, something they were generally missing last season. He was also a clutch scorer, getting four game-winning goals, and that bodes well for his performance in upcoming playoff series.

Sikura had three assists in five NHL games last season, carrying a large offensive zone start percentage (64.3%). That indicates more to come, especially because he could see a bump in time to playing on the first line with Saad and Toews this season, or he could lock down a third-line role and play consistently.

This season, a middle-six role could suit him perfectly, and give him time to adapt and grow. His ceiling is lower than the next four players, and there are players behind him on this list with higher ceilings. But he’s NHL ready and bound to play consistently with the Chicago Blackhawks.