Blake Hillman Bio
Blake Hillman is an American professional ice hockey defenseman who plays for the Hartford Wolf Pack in the American Hockey League (AHL). He was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the sixth round, 173rd overall, in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Hillman contributed to his team’s success while playing three years at the University of Denver, where he was a member of the 2017 NCAA Champion Denver Pioneers. After a strong collegiate career, he made his NHL debut in 2018 and continues to play professionally.
Early Life and Background
Blake Hillman was born on January 26, 1996, in Elk River, Minnesota, United States. Growing up in a state known for its strong hockey culture, Hillman was exposed to the sport at a young age. His early experiences in hockey laid the foundation for his future career. He played two seasons in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Dubuque Fighting Saints and Waterloo Black Hawks before moving on to collegiate hockey.
Path to Hockey
Hillman attended the University of Denver, where he played three seasons with the Denver Pioneers. During his time there, he developed his skills and became a key player on the team, helping them secure the NCAA Championship in 2017. His performance in college hockey caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks.
Blake Hillman Career
Early Career (2018–2021)
After being drafted, Blake Hillman signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on March 27, 2018. He made his NHL debut just a few days later on March 30, 2018, in a game against the Colorado Avalanche. Hillman recorded his first career NHL goal on April 4, 2018, in a match against the St. Louis Blues, contributing to a 4–3 victory for the Blackhawks. However, after the 2018 season, he was not tendered a qualifying offer by the Blackhawks, making him a free agent.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Following his release from the Blackhawks, Hillman faced challenges in finding a new team. He signed a one-year contract with the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL on July 26, 2019. During the 2019–20 season, he recorded 13 points in 35 regular season games. He also had loan spells with the Grand Rapids Griffins and Stockton Heat in the AHL. On January 20, 2021, he signed with the South Carolina Stingrays for the remainder of the ECHL season. After a successful stint with the Toledo Walleye and time with the Grand Rapids Griffins and Providence Bruins, Hillman signed a one-year AHL contract with the Hartford Wolf Pack on July 6, 2022.
Notable Works and Milestones
Blake Hillman’s signature achievement includes being part of the 2017 NCAA Championship-winning team at the University of Denver. He has also represented Team USA at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge, contributing to their gold medal victory.
Blake Hillman Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Blake Hillman has not received any major award nominations, but his contributions to his teams, especially during his collegiate career, have been noteworthy.
Blake Hillman Awards Won
Blake Hillman was a member of the 2017 NCAA Champion Denver Pioneers, marking a significant achievement in his hockey career.
Blake Hillman Family
Information regarding Blake Hillman’s family is not publicly available, and details about his parents or siblings remain undisclosed.
Personal Life
Blake Hillman’s personal life is largely private, with no public information available regarding his marital status or relationships.