Player Name: Jack Skille
Player’s Current Team: Chicago Blackhawks
Player’s Current Address: c/o Chicago Blackhawks
Date Sent out: 10/17/08
Date Returned: 10/31/08 (14 days)
Why go after this autograph: Although I don’t like to admit it to people who work with me, I am a closet Blackhawks fan. Of course down here everyone is a Hurricanes fan and although I do root for them, I like the Blackhawks more. Jack was the 7th overall draft pick in the 2005 draft. Prior to joining the Blackhawks, he played for the University of Wisconsin, Team USA and the Norfolk Admirals. At this point in his career he is considered a prospect. Here is what Hockey Future Magazine has to say about him:
Talent Analysis
Opinions diverge fairly widely on Skille as a prospect. Some see him as a scoring power forward, others as at best a checking line player.
Without question, he possesses exceptional speed and a blistering shot that he can get off very quickly. He is a rock solid 205 pounds and quite strong, especially for his relatively young age. Against college and international competition, he showed an appetite for contact and could at times be physically dominating, whether in the corners or establishing position in front of the net.
Some question whether he will have enough size and strength to succeed playing that style at the professional level. Other questions about Skille include a reputation for lingering at center ice, waiting for outlet passes and ignoring defensive responsibilities, as well as an overall lack of hockey sense.
One advantage Skille should have at the pro level is his sheer speed and an underrated one-on-one game. He has an almost predatory ability to find a weak or tentative defender, who he will then exploit to generate breakaway opportunities. If Skille plays with superior passers and playmakers, he should be able to score consistently in the NHL.
So although he may never become a dominant player in the league, I still find that watching him is exciting and I do believe he will have an impact with the team. Jack, if you are reading, my wife and I have our fingers crossed for you.
Any Current Certified Autographs Available: Almost every hackey card set from 2006 on has at least one certified autograph of him and on eBay, they run anywhere from $2 – $20 depending on the set.
