By paNOW Staff

McNeill is a Blackhawk

Jun 24, 2011 | 8:20 PM

By Drew Wilson

paNOW.com Staff

Mark NcNeill has added a Chicago Blackhawk jersey to his collection. The Prince Albert Raiders Centreman tried on his Blackhawk jersey after being selected by the original six franchise in the first round of the NHL draft Friday night in Minnesota.

Hawks General Manager Stan Bowman made the 32 goal man from last season the 18th pick overall culminating a tremendous year for the Edmonton native who improved his point total by 57 and played in all situations against the top players from the other WHL teams. McNeill also led the Raiders with 49 assists in 2010-11.

One of McNeill's biggest attributes is his strength. The 6'2″ 210 pound power forward was overpowering opposition defenseman by the end of last season and was one of the strongest players at the NHL combine.

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McNeill is the first Raider taken in the first round since Kyle Chipchura was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in 2004. He is also the 14th first round selection produced by the franchise since 1983. McNeill joins the likes of Mike Modano, Chris Phillips and Scott Hartnell in that category.

dwilson@rawlco.com