Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Sam Rinzel

Sam Rinzel began the season in the NHL, serving as one of seven defensemen that Jeff Blashill regularly played early in the season. However, the early season excitement wore off, Rinzel’s minutes reduced, and he was ultimately sent down in early December. Upon returning to Rockford, the Blackhawks wanted him to find his rhythm with the puck that he displayed in his short nine-game stint in 2024-25.

Rinzel went down to Rockford, didn’t post gaudy offensive totals, but put up solid numbers. In just 23 AHL games, Rinzel posted 14 points (two goals, 12 assists) for the IceHogs. Once some of the injuries and trades occurred, Rinzel returned to the NHL in late January, and became a regular following the Olympic break.

Ultimately, Rinzel may have left some to be desired, especially with his ice time numbers falling. That said, 14 points (four goals, 10 assists) in 54 games is a decent output for a player that clearly played above expectations after arriving from the University of Minnesota in 2024-25. Next season, the expectations for Rinzel certainly rise.

Player Grades

Blackhawks Cowboy’s Grade: C

The preseason Calder calls for Sam Rinzel have aged like milk. Rinzel underperformed this season compared to expectations; no two ways about it. His game looked out of place at the end of the season and was often bullied due to a lack of awareness and thin frame, eventually spending time in Rockford. However, there is still the potential that we saw at Minnesota. He had some excellent moments and will just need to continue developing.

Tony Marchese’s Grade: C+

Sam Rinzel didn’t quite live up to the initial hype that he built up in his cup of coffee with the Blackhawks at the end of last season, where he looked like he was already performing at a top-4 NHL defenseman level. It eventually led to Rinzel taking a step back and heading to the AHL to get some additional seasoning. Overall, Rinzel still showed signs of being an important piece of the rebuild, but also tempered expectations. C+ with a lot of room for growth.

Ron Luce’s Grade: C+

Making the trip up and down to Rockford, Sam Rinzel showed promise late in the season, but struggled at times early. A demotion to the AHL was met with one message, “find your swagger with the puck again.” Rinzel did some of that once he returned to Chicago, but still didn’t light the world on fire. A step forward like we saw from Wyatt Kaiser two seasons ago would be huge for Rinzel. For now, an above average grade is fair, but not much above for what its worth.

What’s On Tap Next?

Sam Rinzel will certainly be one of the most examined young players on the Blackhawks’ roster next season. A step forward will be an encouraging sign for the rebuild, but Rinzel still has lots to prove.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Sam Rinzel? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

Next Up: Alex Vlasic