Chicago Blackhawks Development Camp: Spotlight on Prospects

As the Chicago Blackhawks development camp progresses, prospects are engaged in ice drills with guidance from development coaches like Kendall Coyne Schofield. These practices help players adapt to the Hawks’ system. The 2026 draft class, experiencing Chicago for the first time, includes No. 35 pick Ryan Roobroeck, who expressed enthusiasm about the city. Meanwhile, the 2025 draftees aim to establish themselves in Chicago.

Václav Nestrašil

Václav Nestrašil, a right winger for the Blackhawks, had a notable winter season. The 19-year-old Czech player secured a silver medal at the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Junior Championships. Reflecting on his experiences, Nestrašil acknowledged the challenge posed by Sweden, led by Anton Frondell, who claimed the gold. “It was tough because Frondell beat us,” he joked. “He’s an incredible player and a nice guy. Watching his season and his transition to Chicago was impressive.” Nestrašil recorded 31 points, including 13 goals and 18 assists, in his freshman season with UMass. The transition to NCAA required adjustments, but he embraced the competitive environment.

Nestrašil shared, “Entering a league with players weighing over 200 pounds is challenging. I realized what was necessary, and gaining weight helped.”

The 6-foot-6, 205-pound right wing will continue with the Minutemen alongside Samu Alalauri, the 2026 No. 66 pick. After Alalauri’s selection, Nestrašil commented, “He seems like a great kid. I was hoping he would get drafted high.”

Mason West

Mason West, the 2025 No. 29 pick, practices at the Blackhawks Ice Center. Known for winning a state football championship at Edina High in Minnesota, West has shifted his focus entirely to hockey. “I’m just trying to have fun,” said the 18-year-old forward, recalling the championship experience. West scored 25 points with 10 goals and 15 assists in 38 games for the USHL’s Fargo Force. He attributed his hockey vision to his former quarterback role.

“I can see improvement daily,” West said. “It’s easier now without football since being a taller guy involves different movements.”

West, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 218 pounds, is preparing for the World Junior Summer Showcase and plans to join Michigan State in the 2026-27 season. “I look forward to practicing with high-level players,” West expressed about the Spartans.

Nathan Behm

Nathan Behm, one of the two No. 66 picks, also skated during the camp. The winger gained confidence after improving with the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers, tallying 86 points in the 2025-26 season. Behm is eager to start his college career at Arizona State.

“It’s a different schedule, with more gym time and significant practice,” Behm noted. “Every game becomes more meaningful.”

He aims to enhance his speed and explosiveness in the upcoming NCAA season.

Julius Sumpf

The Hawks picked Julius Sumpf at No. 98 in the 2025 draft. As a center, Sumpf contributed 21 points in his first year at Providence College. “Joining college is a big step,” Sumpf shared, “Facing older, bigger opponents has been beneficial.” He will play another season with the Friars alongside John Mustard, a 2024 third-round pick.

“It’s helpful having a teammate I know in Chicago,” Sumpf mentioned about Mustard.

Parker Holmes

Parker Holmes, chosen at No. 107 in the 2025 draft, scored 17 points with the OHL’s Brantford Bulldogs. This summer, he transferred to the Sarnia Sting.

Ashton Cumby

Defenseman Ashton Cumby, who went No. 162 in 2025, is set to play professionally with the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. Cumby aims to make a strong impression during his initial AHL tenure.

“Entering Rockford confidently and performing well is crucial,” Cumby stated. His development with the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds saw him post 17 points in the 2025-26 season.