Young defenseman's time with the Chicago Blackhawks reportedly comes to an end
Photo credit: NHL.com
A recent move made by the Chicago Blackhawks is reportedly the ending of the road for a young defenseman with the team after a major move was completed today by general manager Kyle Davidson.
Matt Grzelcyk had a great season last year with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the best of his career, tallying one goal and 39 assists for 40 points in 82 games.
However, he remained available in free agency for nearly the entire offseason, until today, when he agreed to sign a professional tryout with the Chicago Blackhawks.
For the Blackhawks, who needed to add a veteran presence to their blue line, it was an easy decision, especially considering the low risk associated with PTOs.
What's interesting is what this means for the rest of the defensive group entering the training camp.
Young Blackhawks defenseman will likely start the season in the AHL
If Grzelcyk ends up signing a standard player contract, someone will need to make room, and the ripple effect could push one of Chicago's top prospects down to Rockford.
With Sam Rinzel impressing late last year and Artyom Levshunov pushing for a bigger role, there's a growing sense that Korchinski might be slipping down the depth chart.
"Interesting.
I think this confirms they want Korchinski to start in the AHL.
I wonder about Levshunov"
I think this confirms they want Korchinski to start in the AHL.
I wonder about Levshunov"
But that doesn't mean his value has diminished.
Korchinski has 92 NHL games under his belt already and is the most offensively gifted left-handed shot among Chicago's prospects.
Many rumors state that the Hawks appear poised to trade one of their defensemen expected to reach the NHL.
Grzelcyk's PTO might force tough choices, but it also gives the Blackhawks valuable flexibility, both in the lineup and on the trade market.
With Korchinski, Artyom Levshunov, Sam Rinzel, Nolan Allan, and Ethan Del Mastro all waiver exempt, expect plenty of movement between Rockford and Chicago as the season plays out.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 16 | 268 ANSWERS Young defenseman's time with the Chicago Blackhawks reportedly comes to an end Do you think the Blackhawks are making the wrong decision by becoming older? | ||
| Yes | 132 | 49.3 % |
| No | 136 | 50.7 % |
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