The Chicago Blackhawks are adding an impressive goaltending prospect to the organization. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reports that Drew Commesso will turn pro and sign his three-year entry-level contract. Charlie Roumeliotis of NBCS Chicago confirms that the deal will start in 2023-24.
Commesso, 20, just finished his junior season with Boston University, helping lead the Terriers to the Frozen Four. In 34 appearances this year, the 2020 second-round pick posted a 24-8 record and .913 save percentage, continuing what has been an incredible few years.
In 2021, Commesso was included on the US World Championship squad as the extra goaltender, taking home a bronze medal without appearing in a game. He played at the Olympics the following year, posting a perfect 2-0 record with a .964 save percentage.
As a prospect, he ranks among the game’s best in net, and immediately gives the Blackhawks a legitimate “goalie of the future” to develop. With the complete teardown still in progress, it will be years before Chicago is expected to contend. That gives Commesso plenty of time to hone his skills in the minor leagues, where he’ll likely spend all of next season.
Been waiting for this one. Well done. Goalie certainly looks a little better for the future. Maybe someone will actually want Mrazek next year at the deadline. Sorry, Lost my head for a second there.
WHat about Dominic Basse at St. Cloud State drafted a few years ago or can he sign with anyone now?
Haven’t heard that he’s leaving school yet. He was actually the backup at the tournament. But he has more time to decide but that would be cool. Soderblom is actually an RFA this year. But I think they want him back. For some reason they let Lankinen walk last year.
Interesting fact, I just looked it up and Basse was actually drafted the year before Commesso so maybe he has only one more year before they have to sign him. Not really sure how that works. Anyway the Hawks have Cap money so if they need to they can sign a FA if they like one. Stauber looked decent in his cup of coffee and Soderblom looks competent so G not as dire as it was going into this year anyway.