Kyle Davidson on Blackhawks' future: 'We’re in a really, really exciting spot'

(670 The Score) Coming off one of the worst seasons in franchise history, the Blackhawks are nonetheless plenty excited about their future.

That’s because of how the Blackhawks have progressed early on in a rebuilding process led by general manager Kyle Davidson. Despite a 23-53-6 mark this past season, the Blackhawks watched coveted prospect Connor Bedard emerge as the likely Calder Trophy winner as the NHL’s top rookie and a young core around him make strides.

The Blackhawks now hold the No. 2 overall pick in the NHL Draft, and Davidson is prepared for the team to shift to a more competitive phase.

“We’re in a really, really exciting spot right now,” Davidson told the Mully & Haugh Show on Thursday. “The last couple years have seen us accumulate some really special players through the draft, obviously with Connor (Bedard) being the main headliner among them. But great depth at all the positions, draft capital moving forward, cap space moving forward. I think we’re positioned very, very well to maintain the upward trajectory that not only have we seen in the prospect level the last few years but hopefully soon on the ice as well. So, we’re in a really good spot, we’re really excited with where we’re at and I think it’s only going to get better in June.”

While Davidson was careful to note that the Blackhawks must use their salary cap space carefully and also keep in mind they'll need it to retain their own players in the years to come, Chicago could improve its roster in free agency. Stars like Steven Stamkos and Patrick Kane are set to available on the open market. The Blackhawks could also look to add from the next tier of free agents.

The NHL Draft will begin on June 28. The Sharks are expected to select forward Macklin Celebrini with the No. 1 overall pick. Beyond that, there's great intrigue in how the Blackhawks will use the No. 2 pick. As he looks ahead, Davidson is carrying a best-player-available mindset.

"We're standing in a position of strength now where we don't need a certain type of forward, we don't need a certain type of defenseman," Davidson said. "We can just go with the player we think fits best."