
McNeill, 24, was a first round pick in 2011 but has never developed the way the Blackhawks expected. McNeill has six goals and 22 assists (28 points) in 58 games with Rockford this season and has only appeared in just one career NHL game.
Four rookie forwards made the Blackhawks’ opening night roster, but McNeill is not one of them. McNeill will start the year in Rockford, where he has 48 goals and 44 assists (92 points) in 127 games over the last two seasons.
McNeill, 22, was the Blackhawks’ first round pick (18th overall) in 2011. He has 19 points (9G / 10A) in 29 games with Rockford this season and could make his NHL debut before the All-Star break.
Sounds like the 2011 first round pick is now ready to turn pro.
McNeill has 18 goals and 39 points through 37 games while playing on the Prince Albert Raiders of the WHL.