One thing the Chicago Blackhawks were not good at during the Stan Bowman era was developing second-round talent. In the NHL, some very important players are second-round picks, with others exceeding expectations. Sure, Alex DeBrincat was a hit because he should've been a first-round talent, and Alex Vlasic was developed by the Kyle Davidson-lead Blackhawks. Other than that, Brandon Saad is the only memorable second-round pick to flourish into a meaningful contributor for the Hawks.
Insert Ryan Greene. The Boston University product posted three straight 30-point seasons at BU, captaining the team in his third and final year. The 57th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft has a chance to join Frank Nazar and Kevin Korchinski as everyday contributors to the Blackhawks' future from that first Kyle Davidson class.
Greene's season was short in Chicago. After a 38-point campaign (13 goals, 25 assists) in 40 games, Greene joined the Blackhawks after the Terriers were eliminated in the Frozen Four. Despite playing just two games, and failing to generate much on the scoresheet, Greene played competitive hockey as the team's third-line center.
There is rumored belief that Kyle Davidson and the front office see Greene as a player who can skip Rockford in 2025-26 and be ready for everyday minutes in the NHL. Although that remains to be seen, it highlights the importance of his late-season taste of game action to prepare him for the fall. Even if he isn't ready, he will get plenty of run with the Rockford IceHogs until he is ready to contribute everyday in Chicago.
Ryan Greene only played two games in the NHL. So, it's a little difficult to grade based off of those performances. That said, I thought he looked fine in those two games. Greene had eight shot attempts and four scoring chances in both games.
Greene's tenure was much too short to give him a full grade. He looked okay in his two appearances, and limited any glaring mistakes, however it is tough to grade his performance as anything other than average in limited time.
Despite just two games, Ryan Greene did exactly what the Blackhawks want him to do. He was already considered by the front office as a middle-six forward, likely playing center. If he can progress into a really good third-line center, the Blackhawks will be very happy. He played responsibly and looks like a piece of the future. I'll happily give him a nice grade as a newcomer.
Greene may be a foundational bottom-six or middle-six piece for the Blackhawks moving forward. That said, we are only scratching the surface of his ability against NHL-level talent. What will 2025-26 bring for Greene in the organization?
Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Ryan Greene? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!
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