Dominic James, drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 6th round (173rd overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft, is showing significant growth as he enters the 2024-2025 NCAA season as captain of the UMD Bulldogs.
His development as a two-way center has earned him recognition for his production, leadership, and defensive capabilities. In the 2023-2024 season, James recorded 28 points (10 goals, 18 assists) in 35 games, tying for the most assists on his team. Notably, three of his goals came on the power play, highlighting his versatility in various situations.
While his offensive numbers are solid, James is primarily known for his strong play in the defensive zone and his effectiveness on the penalty kill. His ability to shut down opponents and his work ethic make him a valuable asset in the bottom-six forward role he is projected to fill at the NHL level.
What sets James apart is his leadership. As the Bulldogs' captain, he's gained the kind of experience that NHL teams, including the Blackhawks, find attractive. His well-rounded skill set and leadership qualities suggest that he could carve out a niche as a reliable, defensively-minded forward in the NHL.