Chicago Blackhawks defenseman prospect Blake Hillman signed a two-year entry-level contract Tuesday, the team announced. Scott Powers of The Athletic first reported the news.
Hillman, who was drafted by Chicago in the sixth round in 2016, will be the sixth player in franchise history to wear No. 55. He will join Chicago immediately, and one defenseman will need to be benched or reassigned to the AHL for Hillman to play in the Hawks’ final five games this season.
Hillman had three goals and nine assists during his junior season in 41 games for Denver. The 22-year-old’s season ended Sunday with the Pioneers falling 5-1 to Ohio State in the Midwest Regional final. The 6-foot-1, 193 pounder had two shots in a block in two tournament games.
He helped Denver win the national championship last season at the United Center in Chicago. The left-handed shot has developed the past two seasons as into a shutdown blueliner.
Hillman is the third Chicago prospect to sign with the team in team this spring. The Hawks also signed Finnish defenseman Joni Tuulola and NCAA forward Dylan Sikura of Northeastern after wrapping up their season.