HF 's Blackhawks Top 20 Prospects, Fall 2008

Hockey's Future has released it's Top 20 Prospects for the Hawks, Badger Jack Skille is listed as the #5 prospect for the Hawks. HF also includes Jake Dowell and Matt Ford as "other notables". As wojo tactfully pointed out to me last time, the "other notables" are listed alphabetically, not by ranking.

Interesting that Ford is listed. Apparently HF did not get the memo that the Hawks were declining to sign Ford and that Ford subsequently signed with the Charlotte Checkers of the ECHL.

Anyway, here's what HF had to say about Skille as #5 in the Top 20.

5. Jack Skille, RW
6’1, 205 pounds
Drafted Round 1, 7th Overall, 2005
Born: May 19, 1987

Skille is best known for his speed, blistering shot, strength and contact game. Some see him as a top-six forward based on his offensive talent alone. However, his style of play and lethargic defense could reduce his role to something less than this. Unlike Brouwer, who can create scoring chances regardless of those around him, Skille is highly dependent on his linemates. Fortunately, Chicago has the playmakers to compliment Skille’s game.

You can also find full updated HF profiles for both Skille and Dowell. (Ford's profile, also recently updated, is available as well.)