NHL · NHL Draft · published 2026-10-10T00:00:00+00:00 · via The Hockey Writers

Chicago Faces Concerns Over 2027 Draft Depth

The Blackhawks hold three first-round picks in the 2027 NHL Draft, but the class is viewed as weak. Landon DuPont headlines the group, with Nazar Privalov, Alexis Joseph, and Sergei Skvortsov among other options before a talent drop-off. Chicago may need to adjust its rebuild plans, especially with Connor Bedard recovering from shoulder surgery.

Expanded Detail

Chicago has made 11 first-round selections since Kyle Davidson became general manager in 2022, including Connor Bedard, Anton Frondell, Artyom Levshunov and Frank Nazar. The club skipped the opening round last year, sending the No. 4 pick to Buffalo for Bowen Byram.

For 2027, Chicago owns its own first-rounder plus Edmonton's and Florida's, acquired in the Jason Dickinson/Connor Murphy and Seth Jones deals. Scott Wheeler views the class as weak beyond Landon DuPont, Nazar Privalov, Alexis Joseph and Sergei Skvortsov. Bedard is recovering from summer shoulder surgery.

Context

The Blackhawks’ draft strategy could affect Chicago fans, young players and rival clubs. If the 2027 class is indeed shallow, trading picks may reshape opportunities for prospects and alter how other teams value selections. Bedard’s recovery may also influence expectations around the team’s timeline, potentially affecting attendance, local sports discussion and the broader NHL competitive balance. These outcomes remain uncertain and depend on player development, trades and health.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.

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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Blackhawks Should Be Worried About Weak 2027 NHL Draft Class.” Browse more stories.