2011 NHL Draft: Mock Draft Picks for the Chicago Blackhawks

We’re one week away from the 2011 NHL Draft, and most media outlets are now releasing their mock drafts.

So, in an effort to make life easier for Blackhawks fans, we looked around at who some of the experts think might be on the Hawks’ radar at the 18th overall selection.

• Gare Joyce, ESPN.com
  Nicklas Jenson, RW, Oshawa (OHL) – “A great skater who’ll stretch defenses when he comes down the wing. Teams are projecting significant growth in Jensen’s game, based on the belief that he’ll fare better after this year’s experience playing in North America.“
• Mike Morreale, NHL.com
  Sven Baertschi, LW, Portland (WHL) – “Switzerland-born forward is being touted as next Nino Niederreiter. Had 34 goals, 85 points in 66 games.“
• Adam Kimelman, NHL.com
  Tomas Jurco, RW, Saint John (QMJHL) – “Hawks fans will find he’s more than just the guy with the fancy puck skills in all those videos.“
• Steven Hoffner, NHL.com
  Vladislav Namestnikov, C, London (OHL) – “Flashy center would add depth to Hawks’ offense.“
• Deven Persaud, NHL.com
  Ty Rattie, RW, Portland (WHL) – “Another Winterhawk off the board as Chicago attempts to build its forward depth.“

As more mock drafts are released (including TSN’s on Tuesday), we’ll update this piece.