The Chicago Blackhawks are in a rebuilding phase and are focused on building around the 19-year-old phenom Connor Bedard.

With their current struggles this season, placing them at the bottom of the standings, they will likely have another high draft pick, possibly first overall, in the 2025 NHL Draft.

So, selecting the right prospect will be key for them to become a future dynasty.

This year’s draft class is loaded with talent, including four players who would be home run draft choices if the Hawks are selecting at the top of the draft.

However, the question remains: “Who should the Blackhawks select first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft if the land the top pick?” Should they strengthen their blue line with Matthew Schafer? Add a gritty power forward like Porter Martone on their top six? Choose a goal-scorer like Michael Misa? Or do they bring in a two-way playmaker like James Hagens?

Each of these players offers a unique skill set, but only one can wear the red, white, and black in Chicago.

Here are four players the Hawks should consider so long as their top pick is still at the top of the draft…

Matthew Schaefer

Matthew Schaefer is by far, one of the best defenseman in the 2025 NHL Draft Class. He is known for his two-way ability on the ice and has potential to become a top-tier NHL defenseman.

The Blackhawks defense has struggled overall this season and adding a player like Schaefer can turn their whole defensive structure around. With his skating, physicality, and competitiveness, Schaefer would be a great addition to Chicago’s backend.

Porter Martone

Porter Martone is a gritty power forward for the Brampton Steelheads of the OHL. He has drawn comparisons to Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk due to his size and skill.

The Blackhawks need a “Matthew Tkachuk” type player in their lineup. While Patrick Maroon brings grit and grind to the team, he probably would not be around for the rebuild considering that he signed a one-year deal contract with the team in the offseason last year. Martone, on the other hand, could be a long-term answer and bring top notch potential to be a top-six forward for years to come.

Michael Misa

Michael Misa would be a great addition for the Hawks because of two words: goal scoring.

Although not Alex Ovechkin, his knack for finding the back of the name could make him one of the NHL’s elite scorers and most importantly, one of the league’s top offensive players soon.

The Blackhawks may have their first line of Tyler Bertuzzi, Connor Bedard, and Frank Nazar, Misa could slot in for second line center. His ability to generate offense and finish plays will provide depth scoring that the Blackhawks need during their rebuild and get back to being a competitive team.

Not only that, but a Bedard and Misa tandem would be a lethal combination and one that would light up the scoreboard every night.

James Hagens

I think every Hawks fan wants James Hagens on the team. As the projected 2025 first overall pick, Hagens is an exceptional talent and is known for high hockey IQ and strong two-way game. His ability to convert on offense and defense would make him a top-tier for the Blackhawks in many years to come.

Pairing Hagens with Bedard would be an unstoppable one-two punch for Chicago. Just imagine, Hagens’ playmaking ability and scoring touch combined with Bedard’s lethal shot and skill would generate a lot of offense and creativity to the team.

Closing Thoughts…

Despite being the worst team in the league, the Blackhawks have a strong chance to draft first overall once again. Fun fact: if this happens, this would be the second first overall pick for the Blackhawks in just two years since drafting Connor Bedard in the 2023 NHL Draft so choosing the right player for this draft would be key.

Think about it: The Devils had two first overall picks in a short span (2017-2019). In 2017, they drafted Nico Hischier first overall, and in 2019, they drafted Jack Hughes first overall and they’re having great seasons with New Jersey.

So the Blackhawks will have to choose wisely come the 2025 NHL Draft. Who would be the next young prospect to make an impact for the Chicago Blackhawks during this rebuild?