Demidov, a playmaking Russian forward who could complement Connor Bedard, and Levshunov, a versatile Belarusian defenseman who exudes confidence with the puck, are almost certainly the two options the Hawks will choose between.
by GoldWhale
@Chicago Blackhawks
6 Comments
What are the other options. Silayev and Lindstrom?
It’s going to be a constant debate at 2. personally, i think it should be Demidov. The hawks have a lot of defensive talent in their system. While none are as highly touted as Levshunov would be, the offensive talent in the Hawks pipeline is severely lacking, much more so than the defensive side. Giving Bedard the talent of a guy like Demidov, while hoping Moore and Nazar develop would greatly help the hawks team.
We’re going to have this same post every day until they’re actually on the podium
One thing I find interesting in the article is that it talks about the possibility of Levs turning pro right away. Not sure if that’s likely given how long it takes for D to develop. More broadly speaking, I wonder if being able to keep a better eye on Levs will be a factor for KD (not saying it should, but you never know). This is a interesting debate for sure.
“exudes confidence with the puck” isn’t very interesting praise for a defenseman. What does that mean? That when he has the puck he does fancy shit with it? I’ve seen his play away from the puck and its awful, he is disinterested most of the time.
If we don’t take Demidov with this pick, it would be one of the worst picks of all time. I don’t think Lev should even go 3rd or 4th, 5th at most, and I think he is still risky at that position, but pickings are slim. Use 18 or 50 to find a smart defenseman who can play a system and anchor a pairing, solid depth.
Demidov. He’s unreal. If he drops like Michkov, whichever team that drafts him is going to be laughing their asses off in a few years. Levahunov should be fine too. I guess you can’t lose with either pick.