2017 NHL draft to be held in Chicago
By JAY COHEN, Associated Press
Feb 11, 2016 4:18 PM CST
Chicago Blackhawks left wing Dennis Rasmussen (70) is unable to get a shot on San Jose Sharks goalie Martin Jones (31) as Logan Couture also defends during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2016, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)   (Associated Press)

CHICAGO (AP) — The 2017 NHL draft is coming to the home of the Chicago Blackhawks.

Commissioner Gary Bettman made the announcement at the United Center on Thursday. It is the first time hosting the draft for the Blackhawks, something Bettman said was a complete surprise to him.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel said no public money will be used to finance the event, and it will have a huge economic impact on the city. He said it will be similar approach to the one for the NFL draft, which will be held in Chicago this year for the second straight year.

The 2016 NHL draft is in Buffalo from June 24-25.

The league says ticket distribution plans and other details for the draft will be announced later.