The Chicago Blackhawks continued their effort to funnel young talent into the organization by signing top prospect John Hayden on Sunday. The two-year entry-level deal begins now as Hayden reports to Chicago, and it’s expected that he’ll make his NHL debut before the end of the season.
Hayden could’ve walked as a free agent in August if he didn’t sign, but the Blackhawks sold him on the opportunity he’ll get here. And not only was his ELC limited to two years as a 22-year-old, but by having one of those years burned now, he’ll become a restricted free agent following his proper rookie season.