Blackhawks Sign Marcus Krüger to Three-Year Deal

The Blackhawks announced on Wednesday that they have agreed to a three-year, entry-level contract with 20-year-old center Marcus Krüger. The deal has a salary cap number of $735,000.

Krüger is considered one of the top forward prospects, arguably the best center, in the Blackhawks organization. He is expected to stay in Sweden for one more year.

The Hawks drafted Krüger in the 5th round (149th overall) of the 2009 draft. He is barely 20 (born May 27, 1990) and is listed at 6’0 and 180 pounds. Krüger ended the 2010 World Junior Championships with a bronze medal as part of Team Sweden, contributing six assists. Sweden defeated Switzerland 11-4 in the bronze medal game.

Krüger has been described as a skilled playmaker with elite hockey sense and a good long passer. He works well in all three zones, and his leadership has been commended. Krüger’s scouting report says he needs to get a bit stronger to compete at the NHL level. With one more year in Sweden, he might be ready for a shot in Chicago.