Chicago to Host 2017 NHL Draft

This would be the first time Chicago has hosted the NHL Draft, and it comes at a time when the sport’s popularity is at its peak in the city.

National Hockey League commissioner Gary Bettman formally announced Thursday afternoon that the Blackhawks are hosting the 2017 National Hockey League draft.

The draft will be held June 23-24, 2017 at the United Center.

Also reporting the news that the NHL and the city of Chicago will announce the city as the host of the 2017 NHL Draft is ESPN’s Pierre Lebrun.

It will be the first time Chicago has hosted the event in its 53-year history. “It’s always fun to bring these jewel events to Chicago”, team president John McDonough said during Thursday’s press conference.

“We are excited that by this event, we will be able to showcase our franchise and the city of Chicago on the world stage”, Blackhawks Chairman Rocky Wirtz said. During the 2015 NHL Draft, a total of 27 trades were completed and included players such as David Legwand, Milan Lucic and Anti Niemi.

Sources haven’t confirmed the United Center as the official site, but previous year the event was held at the home rink of the Florida Panthers and in 2016 will be at the First Niagara Center, the home of the Buffalo Sabres.