Former Blackhawk ‘Resurrecting' Career in Buffalo

Former forward for the Blackhawks and Illinois-native Vinnie Hinostoza was once a promising prospect for his hometown team, even playing parts of three seasons with the club. Until July 12, 2018, that is, when he was considered the sweetener in a trade to the Coyotes that saw Chicago unburden itself from Marian Hossa's contract following his medical retirement. Hinostroza's first season in the desert was actually his most productive at the NHL level, posting career highs in goals (16), assists (23) and points (29) in 2018-19.

After that, things got tougher on the young forward, with each season since then displaying regressing offensive numbers. He looked sharp on his way back through Chicago last season, but former General Manager Stan Bowman opted to let him go once more. He signed on with the Sabres for one season at League-minimum salary, which at the time seemed like an indictment that it could be his last chance in the NHL.

Whatever his League status was before the season, he's made the most of his opportunity in Buffalo, putting together his best NHL season since 2018-19 with 12 goals and 24 points in 57 games. His skill with the puck has always been strong, but the tenacity he's shown over the last calendar year has raised his game to another level.