Blackhawks Prospects Report: Oliver Moore Lights the Lamp

Blackhawks prospect Oliver Moore tallied a goal and an assist in the United States’ 7-2 win over Latvia Tuesday. Fellow prospect Frank Nazar had so far taken the lionshare of attention in the US games, notching eight assists so far in the tournament.

Moore’s presence had been quieter, heading into the tilt with Latvia having just an assist. But he’d been active , driving some entries and making plays that led to scoring chances. The goal was a cherry on top.

With the United States headed to the semifinals against Finland on Thursday, it’ll be another chance for the prospects to shine on the national stage.

Meanwhile with Canada bounced by Czechia 3-2, Macklin Celebrini’s tournament comes to a quiet end after generating a buzz with a five-point game earlier in the tournament. He ends with four goals and as many assists, and there’s always considerable debate as to whether the World Juniors helps or hurts draft stock.

He’s still considered the odds on favorite as the top pick in the draft, but with Canada’s early exit, the excitement that Connor Bedard and the star studded group from last year certainly contrasts with the mood following Canada’s loss.

Lardis, Ludwinski Continue Their Tear in the OHL

Aside from Oliver Moore and the World Junior Blackhawks prospects, Nick Lardis keeps up his pace with Brantford, sitting fourth in the league with 27 goals and enjoying a three-point performance against Erie on New Years Eve. He has 14 points in his last ten games, with eight finding the back of the net.

It’s been a heck of a season for Lardis, who is just seven goals off of a goal-per-game pace. But not only is Lardis making noise in the OHL, so is Paul Ludwinski, who has 39 points in 30 games.

Not selected by team Canada for the World Juniors, Ludwinski instead went after it in the O, notching 13 points (3-10) in his last six games. He potted a pair of goals in Kingston’s victory over Ottawa, and has registered at least one point in 22 of the 30 games he’s played this season.