Bowen Byram or Alex Turcotte?

In a little over three weeks on Friday, June 21st, the Chicago Blackhawks will have to make a final decision on the 3rd overall pick. There has been a lot of speculation surrounding a handful of prospects, but it seems like it could be down to just two players at this point.

If the Blackhawks take a forward in the first round for the first time since Nick Schmaltz in 2014, then there are a lot of different ways they could go. A current top option is 18-year-old Alex Turcotte. Turcotte is an ultra-competitive center that has tremendous skill and speed. He plays a strong 200-foot game and has an unmatched compete level. Despite his 5’11”, 185 lb frame, Turcotte wins a substantial amount of puck battles. He prides himself on his competitive nature and the fire he plays with every game. That sounds exactly like the type of player the Blackhawks need right now. Here’s a quick look at the vision and skill Turcotte possesses.