Chicago Blackhawks’ 2024 first-round pick Sacha Boisvert can now sign after Boston University’s elimination. Speculation on his pro debut, timeline, and fit in the rebuild.

The door is officially open for Sacha Boisvert to make the jump to professional hockey. With Boston University’s season ending in a 5-3 loss to UConn in the Hockey East quarterfinals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, the Blackhawks’ 2024 first-round pick (No. 18 overall) is free to sign his entry-level contract at any time. While nothing is confirmed, speculation is rampant that the 19-year-old center could ink a deal soon, potentially debuting in the NHL before the 2025-26 season wraps.

Boisvert’s sophomore campaign at BU was a far cry from his standout freshman year at North Dakota, where he tallied 18 goals and 14 assists in 37 games. This season, hampered by injuries and inconsistencies, he managed just 3 goals, 14 assists, and 17 points in 26 appearances. Adding to the intrigue, Boisvert was a mysterious healthy scratch for BU’s critical win-or-go-home game against Northeastern on March 11, sparking rumors of an impending pro move. Coach Jay Pandolfo offered no details post-game, but the absence fueled talk that Boisvert’s college days were numbered.

Despite the underwhelming stats, Blackhawks brass remains high on Boisvert’s potential. Assistant GM Mark Eaton has noted that his hard-nosed, two-way style may be better suited to the pros than college, emphasizing his physicality and playmaking upside. The Hawks, sitting at 25-30-11 and focused on youth infusion amid their rebuild, have openly planned to sign him imminently once eligible. With two years of NCAA eligibility left, Boisvert’s decision to turn pro aligns with his pre-draft comments about accelerating his development.

Speculation points to a quick signing, possibly before the weekend ends or Monday, to allow for a potential NHL cameo. Visa issues could complicate matters for the Canadian-born forward, but if cleared, he might suit up as early as Tuesday against the Minnesota Wild, Thursday’s rematch with Minnesota, or Friday vs. the Colorado Avalanche.