A.J. Spellacy is still the kind of Blackhawks prospect worth tracking closely.
The 20-year-old has already been a talking point once at Chicago training camp, and after signing his entry-level deal a couple of months later, he remains firmly on the radar. He’s coming off a solid season with the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL, where he posted 32 points in 51 games, and he also suited up for Team USA at the World Juniors. The expectation is that he’ll be with the Rockford IceHogs next season, but he’s the type of player who could make Chicago pause and take a longer look when camp opens.
At development camp in July, Spellacy pointed to the traits he wants to lean on most if he’s going to force his way into the conversation.
"I think just that power forward-type. I think really using my speed, being physical, throwing the body around out there, and obviously, be a good PK (penalty kill). I think that's what every team needs, and I think that's somewhere where I could help."
That same camp also gave him a chance to reflect on the week itself. When asked what he enjoyed most, he said simply getting back around the group stood out.
"Probably just getting back on the ice here and seeing all the guys. I know it's been a while since I've seen a lot of them. So yeah, it's always good to get back in the facility, get on the ice, and just hang out with some of the guys."
Spellacy also had some fun away from the rink.
"Yesterday was pretty fun. We went to the driving range. I know a lot of the guys love golf, so that was fun, and we played some mini putt after."
On the ice, the lessons were straightforward and practical. He said the camp work focused heavily on pace control, body positioning, and making cleaner decisions with the puck.
"I think a lot of just like slowing the game down, like going in the corners, really using your body to puck protect, and having good posture. Getting your head up to make plays from loose pucks, and we worked a lot on that. And then just getting the pucks in good areas to be able to make a play."
Looking ahead, Spellacy made clear what he’s chasing with Chicago.
"I'd say... I put in the work every day just to one day wear the jersey and represent this organization, and do whatever I can to help the team. I think that's like a dream of mine to play a long time for this organization and help the team a lot."
Scott Wheeler of The Athletic previously noted that Spellacy was "A three-star free safety and wide receiver recruit." He ultimately went the hockey route, and the Blackhawks like what that decision has brought them: a feisty 6'3", 204-pound forward who can kill penalties and bring physical edge. If he doesn’t crack a bottom-six role out of camp, those are still the same tools that should keep him on Chicago’s shortlist.
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