How did Blackhawks get here: Stan Bowman’s draft history with defensemen

Photo by Chase Agnello-Dean/NHLI via Getty Images Connor Murphy of the Chicago Blackhawks plays against the Edmonton Oilers in NHL actionThey’re likely having a better season than last year, a trend that should continue, but that’s not saying much. Three of Chicago’s best defensemen came via trades, and of the seven defensemen (more) permanently on this roster, only Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook were drafted by the Blackhawks (Erik Gustafsson was an Oilers pick).

So how did they get here? There will be a wave of defensemen like Adam Boqvist, Ian Mitchell and Nicolas Beaudin in the future, but where is the wave of defensemen to help in the present? Here’s a brief glimpse into general…