Insider reveals the 3 defenseman fighting for the remaining Chicago Blackhawks roster spot

That means the Blackhawks have three defensemen in mind who have a shot at taking the opening roster spot against the Florida Panthers next Tuesday:

Nolan Allan, Ethan Del Mastro, and Matt Grzelcyk.

This means a crucial roster cut will be made within the next few hours, or days, of a prominent defenseman being sent packing.

Del Mastro has had a really rough preseason. He hasn't seemed to have been in position and looks a little lost in both the offensive and defensive zones.

Him and Connor Murphy have not been working out together, and it's really hindering him.

Between those things and the turnovers, it's been a start to forget for Del Mastro. He might be looking at a trip to Rockford Icehogs.

There was so much hype for him coming into this preseason after showing some promising flashes last year, and it was sure he'd maybw be in the top four as well, but it looks like he's going to need a little more time with the Icehogs.

Allan looks like the player who's going to get the spot based off of more NHL experience and Del Mastro's play alone. However, he's still a competent, young defenseman who can give you good minutes when needed, while obviously still going through growing pains along the way.

Grzelcyk, 31 years old, is the veteran of the bunch looking for a roster spot as he was signed on a PTO. He hasn't looked great, though, and will most likely not get it because of the current youth movement in Chicago as well.

Either way, whoever gets this spot (looking like Allan), it will be well earned.