The Chicago Blackhawks may be in the midst of a rebuild, but if you’re looking for signs of what’s coming next, look no further than the pipeline. While fans in Chicago are already buzzing about Connor Bedard, the organization has a trio of overseas prospects who are quietly (and in some cases, not so quietly) making serious noise. Let’s take a closer look at three recent draft picks who are impressing across the Atlantic-and could be donning the Blackhawks sweater sooner than you might think.
Anton Frondell: The SHL Standout
First up is Anton Frondell, the Blackhawks’ third overall pick from last year. The 18-year-old center is already turning heads in Sweden’s top league, the SHL, and it’s not just because of his draft pedigree. Frondell has logged 34 games this season and has tallied 15 goals and 22 points-impressive numbers for a teenager playing against grown men in one of the world’s best professional leagues.
What makes Frondell’s production even more encouraging is his ability to adapt across different levels of play. He’s been a force for Sweden’s U20 team, notching 10 goals and 13 points in just 11 games at the International-Jr level, and added another five goals and eight points during a strong showing at the World Juniors.
Frondell’s blend of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him a versatile option for Chicago’s top-nine forward group next season. Whether he slots in at center or shifts to the wing, he looks like a player who could make the jump to the NHL without needing a lengthy adjustment period. Unlike some prospects who need time to acclimate to the pace and physicality of pro hockey, Frondell has already been battling against seasoned pros-and thriving.
Roman Kantserov: The KHL Scoring Machine
If Frondell is the steady riser, Roman Kantserov is the rocket. At 21 years old, Kantserov is lighting up the KHL this season and making a compelling case that he’s ready for the NHL right now. He sits fifth in league scoring despite playing three to four fewer games than most of the names around him, and his 29 goals in 49 games are a testament to his finishing touch and offensive instincts.
Kantserov’s production isn’t just about volume-it’s about consistency and impact. He’s been a threat in every situation and has shown the kind of offensive upside that could make him a perfect fit alongside Bedard in Chicago’s top six. The Blackhawks are reportedly working to bring him over before the end of the season, and if that happens, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him make an immediate impact.
With the team looking to move pending UFAs at the trade deadline, Kantserov’s potential arrival adds another layer of intrigue. He could step right into a scoring role and give fans a glimpse of the future-one that looks a lot more exciting with him in it.
Ilya Kanarsky: The Goalie Holding the Fort
Goaltending prospects are notoriously tricky to project, but Ilya Kanarsky is making it hard to ignore his progress. The 21-year-old netminder, a seventh-round pick just last year, is putting up strong numbers in the VHL despite playing behind a struggling team.
Kanarsky’s record (7-14-8) doesn’t tell the full story. What jumps off the page is his .925 save percentage and 2.54 goals-against average-numbers that suggest he’s doing everything he can to keep his team competitive night in and night out. For a goalie facing heavy workloads and plenty of high-danger chances, that’s no small feat.
While he’s still a few years away from making the jump to North America, Kanarsky is trending in the right direction. His next step will be proving himself in the KHL, but based on his current trajectory, that opportunity may not be far off.
The Blackhawks’ front office has made it clear they’re building for the future-and if these three prospects are any indication, the future is coming into focus. Frondell, Kantserov, and Kanarsky each bring something different to the table, but all three are showing signs that they could be part of the next wave in Chicago. For a fanbase eager to see what’s next, that’s plenty of reason for optimism.