When the Chicago Blackhawks stepped away from the 2011 NHL Entry Draft’s first round, they did so adding two strong prospects to their farm system in Mark McNeill, picked at No. 18, and Phillip Danault, picked at No. 26. McNeill came into the draft after a very impressive season for the WHL’s Prince Albert Raiders, posting 81 points in 70 games during the 2010-11 season.
As a big-bodied forward with a demonstrated scoring touch, there was plenty of reason for the Blackhawks brass and fans alike to be excited about his potential as someone the team could develop into a good player at the NHL level.