OHL offensive juggernaut poised to crack Blackhawks top six

The Chicago Blackhawks went into the summer with potentially four forward spots to fill. They were temporarily filled by the likes of Lance Bouma, Jordin Tootoo, Tommy Wingels, and Tomas Jurco.

Bouma and Wingels were signed this offseason, while Jurco was acquired for a draft pick midseason. Tootoo signed a one-year deal with the team last summer, and had his contract extended.

Three young prospects for the organization have stepped up this September, giving head coach Joel Quenneville and general manager Stan Bowman some “welcome” headaches.

Alex Debrincat, 19, was drafted in the 2nd round in 2016. The diminutive forward came along with elite offensive skills that translated to dominant production in the OHL for three seasons. He managed 3 consecutive seasons with over 100 points.

There were concerns about how his game would translate to the NHL level, but he’s shown that he can perform throughout the lineup. He could slot in with the likes of Patrick Kane or Jonathan Toews come puck drop. He’s definitely one to watch out for.

John Hayden is another prospect who looks to have made his mark with the Hawks organization. He suited up for Chicago 12 times last season, posting 1 goal and 3 assists. This year, he appears to have rounded out his game – he’s more physical, his skating has improved, and he’s creating more scoring chances.

Vince Hinostroza had a lot of opportunities to stick around with Chicago last season, getting 49 games in. He only managed 14 points in that time, finding himself up and down with their AHL affiliate in Rockford. This training camp, he’s utilizing his top-end speed with much more regularity. He’s better in all zones after a season of inconsistency.

Hayden and Hinostroza can easily push themselves onto the 4th line, leaving the Blackhawks brass with tough decisions to make. Bouma, Tootoo, Wingels, and Jurco are all subject to waivers, and they may not want to risk losing any of them.

Decision time is coming.