The Chicago Blackhawks are officially in last place in the NHL, not that we're entirely surprised, but it shines a brighter light on the future of the organization. In the prospect system, there's plenty to be optimistic about and it continues to get better as this season goes on. From the development of the young players with the Rockford IceHogs, to the handful of prospects potentially heading to the World Junior Championships, the light at the end of the rebuild tunnel is getting bigger, even if it doesn't feel like it's getting closer.

Mario Tirabassi is keeping tabs on the amateur ranks in North America. He will make a deep dive into the NCAA ranks and the Canadian junior leagues. ...