The Chicago Blackhawks added another young forward to their future talent pool. Alexandre Fortin had an appealing performance at the Blackhawks Rookie Camp and it landed him a three year entry level deal with the team. Even after being passed up in two consecutive NHL drafts, his dream has been fulfilled.
Fortin, who had 19 goals and 24 assists in 54 games with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies from the QMJHL seemed to have impressed the Hawks coaching staff. The forward was full of confidence in his play at the United Center during the rookie camp and it has paid off.
“I wanted to come here and prove who I am,” Fortin said to the Chicago Tribune. “I was always a little bit low profile and now I have what I wanted and it’s perfect.”
After silently passing through two NHL drafts, the youngster will find himself playing with one of the best prospect growth teams in the NHL.
Alexandre Fortin’s Talent Has Finally Been Noticed
Although Fortin isn’t likely to play with the Hawks anytime soon, and he will continue to develop with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies for the time being. When he’s allowed to play professionally, one can guess that he’ll continue growth with Hawks AHL affiliate; the Rockford IceHogs.
Signing Fortin continues the team’s strategy of finding talented young forwards to fill the gaps in the future. With salary cap troubles and an expensive core, dealing with draft talents and prospects is the most affordable way to go. Fortin is just one of many cases that fans are witnessing joining the teams young charge.
The Hawks are using young players like Ryan Hartman, Kyle Baun, Sam Carrick, Vinny Hinostroza, Tanner Kero, Tyler Motte, and Nick Schmaltz. The talent is visible in all of the players mentioned. Now Fortin has been added to that group of names who will be the future stars of the franchise.
The Blackhawks organization expects Fortin to have another strong year in the QMJHL. After that it’s up to him to write his future with the Hawks.
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