Chicago Blackhawks Sign Prospect

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed prospect Gavin Hayes to a three-year, entry-level contract that will begin next season.

Hayes was selected with the 66th overall pick of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the Blackhawks, and it is safe to say that the Blackhawks do not regret the selection in the slightest. The 18-year-old just put together an excellent season with the Flint Firebirds, as he has 41 goals and 81 points in 66 games. This is excellent when noting that he only posted a 49-point campaign in 65 games last season for Flint. Thus, it is apparent that he is heading in the right direction with his development.

Hayes will need some time to work on his game before making the jump to the NHL, but the Blackhawks are in a position where they can be very patient with their prospects. We will need to wait and see if the Michigan native can become an impact player for them later down the road, but when looking at how well he is performing in junior, it certainly seems possible.

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