The Hockey News' main site is releasing their latest top 100 NHL prospects rankings. They shared their picks for 81 to 100 this week [https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/top-nhl-prospects-in-future-watch-2026-81-to-100], and a Chicago Blackhawks first-round pick made the cut: Vaclav Nestrasil. Nestrasil was given the No. 83 spot on The Hockey News' latest rankings. When looking at the season he put together at UMass Amherst in 2025-26, it makes sense that he is being considered one of the top prospects in the sport. Nestrasil recorded 13 goals, 18 assists, and 31 points in 34 games during his freshman year with UMass Amherst this campaign. With this, the 6-foot-5 forward undoubtedly showed good upside, and he is certainly a prospect who Blackhawks fans should be watching very closely. The potential for Nestrasil to become a nice part of the Blackhawks' roster in the future is certainly there. It is hard not to be excited about a big forward with plenty of skill like Nestasil, and it will be intriguing to see how he continues to develop his game from here.
