Blackhawks trade up with Islanders in first round

The Chicago Blackhawks moved up in the first and second rounds of the 2024 NHL draft through a trade with the New York Islanders on Friday.

The Blackhawks received the 18th and 50th overall picks of the draft from the Islanders. In turn, New York pocketed the 20th and 54th selections in addition to receiving the 61st overall pick.

Chicago has been acquiring assets in a total rebuild and had three second-round picks in this year's draft. After adding talent through the draft in the past few years -- including taking Connor Bedard No. 1 overall last year -- the Blackhawks appeared ready to turn quantity into higher quality in this year's draft.

The 2024 NHL draft begins June 28 at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Rounds 2-7 will be conducted June 29.

Information from Field Level Media was used in this report.