The Chicago Blackhawks have returned their second round draft selection of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Brandon Saad, to Juniors. The 43rd overall draft pick of 2011 became the first player drafted outside of the first round to start in the NHL in his draft year sin Ryan O’Reilly of Colorado in 2003-2004.
Saad really impressed the Chicago brass in the rookie camp and tournament, and NHL preseason. In six preseason games Saad scored one goal and two assists. He began the year on Chicago’s top line next to Patrick Kane and Patrick Sharp, and spent time on the second line with captain Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa.
"He's done some impressive things so far," Patrick Kane said prior to the announcement. "He had a great preseason and played well in the intrasquad games. I think that as time goes a long in the regular season, things get a bit tougher and I'm sure he'll realize that, but so far he hasn't made any mistakes."
Saad, who will return to his Junior club of Saginaw in the OHL, cannot be recalled this season barring an emergency situation. The Hawks had nine games to make the decision, but reached a conclusion early.
Saad will spend at least one more year with the Saginaw Spirit, where he tallied 27 goals and 28 assists for 55 points in 59 regular season games last season. In the post-season he collected 3 goals and 12 points in as many games. For a full review on Saad’s experience, refer to my previous article; “Brandon Saad One Happy Camper.”
- Kendall Grubbs
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