The Chicago Blackhawks have one of the best prospect pools in the NHL, that's no secret. On Tuesday, that pool of talent received another metaphorical notch in its belt with news out of the University of Minnesota. Per the Minnesota Golden Gophers Men's Hockey Team, defenseman prospect Sam Rinzel has been named the Frank Pond winner as the program's Rookie of the Year.
Rinzel was selected by the Blackhawks with the 25th pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. The young blueliner was the third first-round pick made by the Blackhawks in that draft, following Kevin Korchinski and Frank Nazar. Now, Rinzel is already turning heads in the NCAA.
In 38 games as a freshman, Rinzel tallied 28 points (two goals, 26 assists). He also racked up All-Big Ten Second Team honors, Big Ten Conference All-Freshman Team honors, and was a Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Year finalist.
Rinzel was one of two Minnesota freshmen to be drafted by the Blackhawks. Oliver Moore, a 2023 first-round pick, had a great freshman campaign, tallying 33 points (nine goals, 24 assists) in 38 games. Still, Rinzel took home the Frank Pond trophy.
Frank Pond was a team captain for the Golden Gophers and was named the head coach back in 1930. To this day, the Rookie of the Year trophy is named in his honor.
Rinzel will likely play three years at Minnesota before signing with the Blackhawks. His 6-foot-4 frame and offensive prowess make him an intriguing future addition to the Hawks' young blue line.
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