Chicago Blackhawks Midseason Player Report Cards

Defensemen

Seth Jones: B-
Jones missed a chunk of time this season with a broken finger and has produced just one goal in 35 games. He eats up a ton of ice time and does his best with weak defensive partners. He’s locked in for the long term, so ideally once the team starts competing and the cap rises, he can play up to his $9.5 million price tag.

Jarred Tinordi: D+
Tinordi is the Hawks’ enforcer on the blueline, routinely stepping up to fight (and winning) when a young player is downed by a hard hit. He throws a lot of hits but his lack of foot speed can get him in trouble, resulting in premium scoring chances for the opposition.

Kevin Korchinski: B
Korchinski has played a ton for a rookie defenseman but doesn’t have the points you would like to see out of a player of his offensive caliber (2 goals and 7 assists in 44 games). Nevertheless, the coaching staff has praised his commitment to the defensive side of the puck and isn’t worried about his lack of production. Korchinski has all the tools to become an elite defenseman in the NHL. He just needs more time to develop.

Alex Vlasic: A+
Vlasic has been tremendous this year on a brutal blueline, and his play has many suggesting the Hawks should lock him up long-term. His defensive acumen and growing offensive game have him looking like a stalwart in the Hawks' top-four for years to come.

Isaak Phillips: B
Phillips has progressed nicely since he was selected 141st overall in 2020. He has great speed and closing ability, but still experiences the mental blunders of a young defenseman. Overall, his play has been encouraging and he could develop into a solid top-six defenseman.

Jaycob Megna: B
Megna has played a quiet, consistent, defensively-sound game since he was claimed off waivers from Seattle. He has often been paired with younger defenseman as a safety net. Megna’s play so far has given him a shot at another NHL contract after this season.