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Blackhawks Prospects Miss Frozen Four; Scouts Eye Draft Steals
9 Apr
Summary
- Blackhawks prospects John Mustard and Adam Gajan were eliminated from the NCAA Tournament.
- Mustard will return to Providence for another year before potentially signing.
- Scouts are focused on Keaton Verhoeff, a potential top-five NHL Draft pick.
Chicago Blackhawks prospects John Mustard and Adam Gajan saw their NCAA Tournament runs conclude without reaching the Frozen Four. Mustard and Julius Sumpf, playing for Providence, were eliminated by Quinnipiac in the Regional Semi-Final. Adam Gajan's Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs fell to Michigan in their Regional Final.
Mustard is expected to return to Providence for the 2026-27 season, with a possibility of signing an NHL contract and playing late in that same season. Gajan has already signed with the Blackhawks and will begin his professional career in the AHL, aiming for an NHL opportunity.
As the focus shifts to the NHL Draft, scouts are closely monitoring Keaton Verhoeff, a defenseman from North Dakota. Verhoeff is currently projected as a top-five pick, making him a significant target for the Blackhawks, who are expected to have a high draft selection.
Verhoeff, standing at 6'4" and 212 lbs, possesses an accurate shot and a high hockey IQ. While his skating requires some refinement, his offensive capabilities suggest he could quarterback a top power play unit in the NHL. His defensive play, particularly on the rush, is an area for development.
Beyond Verhoeff, scouts are also looking for other potential draft or signing prospects during the Frozen Four, reminiscent of undrafted players like Collin Graf who later found NHL success.
