Chicago added another big defenseman to the organization with its first of two picks in the fourth round.
The Blackhawks selected Ethan Del Mastro, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound defenseman who is a left-handed shot. Del Mastro spent the 2019-20 season with the OHL’s Mississauga Steelheads, tallying seven assists in 57 games. There was no 2020-21 OHL season, although Del Mastro did play for Team Canada’s Under-18 World Junior Championships team with two assists in seven games.
Adding a defenseman from the @OHLSteelheads! pic.twitter.com/TdVbZ8dq06
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 24, 2021
Chicago obtained this pick by trading Madison Bowey to the Vancouver Canucks at the 2021 trade deadline.
Here’s a quick scouting report on Del Mastro from Elite Prospects:
He uses his pocket when handling, rapid support of his partners, constant activations — you name it. With his long reach, four-way mobility and, above all, his physicality, Del Mastro could play the role of the ‘’engager’’ on an NHL pairing. He likes to work opponents 1-on-1.
According to Ben Kerr from Last Word on Sports, Del Mastro moves well for a player of his stature:
Coming in at 6-foot-4, Del Mastro also has outstanding skating for his size. He is extremely mobile and this makes him extremely good defensively and can help him develop his offensive game. He has a strong and powerful stride. This gives him very good speed and acceleration in both directions. He also has very good agility and edgework. This allows Del Mastro to maintain good gap control. He also has strong pivots, allowing him to transition from offence to defense and vice-versa. Del Mastro is also strong on his skates for his age, playing physically and winning battles on the boards and in front of the net. As he continues to add muscle to his frame, this should continue to improve.