Blackhawks Select Anton Frondell with the Third Overall Pick

Heading into the NHL Entry Draft, many Chicago Blackhawks fans got used to the idea of taking Swedish forward Anton Frondell with the third overall pick. Then, over the past few days, there was a lot of speculation that the San Jose Sharks would select him over Michael Misa with the second pick. After the New York Islanders selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the first pick, the Sharks stuck to the original plan and drafted Misa.

Frondell is far from a consolation prize. After a terrific junior season in 2023-24, he was promoted to HockeyAllsvenskan, Sweden’s second-tier professional league. Playing against much older players, he put up 11 goals and 25 points in 29 games. He had a disappointing showing at the U18 World Junior Championships with a goal and two assists in five games.

The 6-foot-1 center’s best attributes are his awareness, hockey IQ, and complete 200-foot game. His top speed is hard to defend, but it takes him a couple of extra strides to get there compared to other top players in the draft. However, that can be worked on and improved through coaching.

Frondell uses his big frame to shield the puck from defenders and win battles along the boards and in front of the net. He is willing to go to the dirty areas of the ice and wins far more one-on-one battles than he loses. Frondell is most effective in the dangerous areas of the ice and excels at controlling the puck in tight spaces. He has an impressive one-timer in his arsenal and a quick and deadly wrist shot.

The young forward is a well-rounded player who plays a stout defensive game. He hounds the puck, constantly applying pressure on the opponent and forcing turnovers. His attention to detail shines when he doesn’t have the puck. What he accomplished in an older league was impressive. He’s a complete two-way center who is just scratching the surface of his ability.