THREE THINGS: Get to know Henri Jokiharju

The Blackhawks have agreed to terms with Henri Jokiharju on a three-year entry-level contract, which runs through the 2020-21 season. Here are three things to know about the Finnish defenseman who Chicago selected 29th overall in 2017.

2. KING OF PORTLANDIA

Jokiharju was taken 25th overall by Portland in the 2016 CHL Import Draft. He just completed his second season for the Western Hockey League's Winterhawks. As he adapted to the North American game, Jokiharju saw his production tick upward in year two.
Following a 48-point rookie campaign, Jokiharju recorded 71 points (12G, 59A) in 63 games in 2017-18.

On a team with a few NHL first round picks, Jokiharju shined as the Winterhawks top defensive point producer. He was named to the WHL West Second All-Star Team.

3. SOLID PROJECTIONS

Clearly Jokiharju is an excellent prospect, having been selected in the opening round of the draft. He is so highly regarded that International Scouting Services said he has "no real weakness."
NHL Central Scouting lauded Jokiharju's skating ability saying he is an, "excellent skater who is very elusive with the puck and can beat the forecheck with a pass or his skating ability."

They added, "(he's a) very good passer with excellent vision - quickness and mobility allows him to take away time and space defensively."
He was Central Scouting's 19th ranked skater.
Jokiharju himself compares his style to that of New Jersey Devils blueliner Sami Vatanen. He has plenty of upside as an offensive defenseman with hope to one day quarterback a power play at the NHL level.