The Blackhawks used the 2026 NHL Draft’s seventh round on a player who fits the classic late-round gamble: William Sorbrand, taken at No. 200, is the kind of prospect who can force people to take a second look.
Sorbrand wasn’t the kind of name that jumped off every board, and he doesn’t profile as a franchise-changing scorer. But Chicago sees a player with enough size, edge and skill to matter if his game keeps moving in the right direction.
At 6-foot-3 and 203 pounds, he brings center depth, adds needed bulk down the middle and gives the Blackhawks a physical presence they can use. He was also described as the heaviest hitter on open ice in the draft.
That physicality is part of the appeal, but it’s not the whole story. Sorbrand is a relentless forechecker who still brings speed for a player his size.
He uses long strides to get on opponents quickly, close off passing lanes and make life uncomfortable for defenders. His two-way game is considered strong, and he has the offensive touch to hover around a point-per-game pace.
Chicago’s system seems to suit that blend of size, production and grit.
There are still parts of his game that need sharpening. His puck decisions under pressure will need work, even if the rest of the package looks promising.
If everything comes together, Sorbrand projects as a second- or third-line center, with enough upside to see some top-line minutes. He could also help on the power play by planting himself in front of the net and using his frame to create problems.
Last season, Sorbrand played for Timra IK Jr. in the Swedish J20 SuperElite league and put up 10 goals, 18 points and 42 penalty minutes in 28 games.
The timeline is not immediate. Sorbrand is expected to spend another season or two in Sweden before turning pro, with the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL likely waiting about two to three years for him, assuming things go well.
Chicago is not treating him like a project that needs panic or rushing. He already has the body, the 200-foot game and enough offensive upside to suggest he can handle AHL hockey when the time comes.
The Blackhawks will need patience, but the upside is clear enough to keep Sorbrand on the watch list. If he tops out as an AHL player, Rockford still gets a center who can be a force down the middle. If he keeps developing, Chicago may have found a late-round pick with real NHL value.
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