Can Blackhawks' Korchinski earn a full-time roster spot next season?

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Kevin Korchinski has had a difficult time getting into the Blackhawks lineup on a regular basis. He has the talent and size, but he cannot play his way onto the team full-time. With small adjustments and a strong work ethic, he could make a serious run at a full-time position next season. Does he have what it takes to do so?

What has happened to this point?

Korchinski was drafted by Chicago with the seventh overall pick in 2022 after many successful seasons with the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League (WHL). He was a prospect that was on many boards and was even thought of as a player that teams would trade up for. After Chicago drafted him, they thought they had their franchise defenseman. While that has not happened yet, there is still a real possibility he could turn out to be a top-four defenseman when he gets his chance. His lack of success in the NHL is not because of talent but rather of chances at the next level.

At 6'1 and 185 pounds, he fits the mold of an average-sized defenseman, but he can hold his own. This season, Korchinski has played for both Chicago and its American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs. For Rockford, he has poasted two goals and 24 assists for 26 points in 53 games along with 48 penalty minutes. He is not only a puck-moving defenseman who can produce offensively, but he also has a physical style. He does have a place on an NHL roster, but things have to work out for him to be a full-time player with the Blackhawks.

What needs to happen for success?

For Korchinski to be a regular on the Chicago blue line, a few things have to happen. He has to have a strong training camp where he outperforms most of the defensemen there. He has to get noticed, stay on their radar, and contribute offensively in exhibition games. Another thing that has to happen is an open roster spot. Defenseman Maatt Grzelcyk is an unrestricted free agent after this season, and if he does not re-sign, that opens up one spot. Defenseman Ethan del Maestro is a restricted free agent, and if he does not sign, that opens up another. However, Korchinski is also a restricted free agent. It is hard to believe he will not re-sign in Chicago after being a high draft pick with potential and offensive upside. Two positions could be available for the taking, but Korchinski has to earn it, as nothing will be given to him.

While he does have loads of potential, he has not given the Blackhawks enough reason to keep him, given his offensive output. Through 105 NHL games with Chicago, he has six goals and 13 assists for 19 points. Is the low production based on his not performing well? Is it because he has not been given the ice time to show what he can do? This seems like a  for the youngster, and if all else fails and he is moved, he could be an outstanding player for another organization. It could be a thing where he just does not fit into their plans. A lot will be decided in the coming months, and it could be something to keep an eye on.

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