Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Wyatt Kaiser

Wyatt Kaiser took a step forward in 2025-26, there is no question about that. Kaiser played in 77 games, posting 17 points (six goals, 11 assists) in that time. He also averaged a career-high 19:37 of ice time, showcasing the trust he earned with the coaching staff. Kaiser also had the tall task of playing with Artyom Levshunov for majority of the season, making his -16 plus/minus a little easier to stomach.

Kaiser’s underlying numbers are, well, a bit underwhelming. Again, how much of Kaiser’s performance was dragged down by the inconsistencies of Levshunov last season? In addition, Kaiser was in the defensive zone about 53% of the time to begin a shift. He was leaned on to provide stability on the defensive side.

Making only $1.7 million next season, Kaiser could be in line for a nice payday with another improved season. Regardless, Kaiser will be a key piece behind Bowen Byram and Alex Vlasic next season.

Player Grades

Blackhawks Cowboy’s Grade: B

As a big Kaiser guy for a long time, this season felt vindicating. Wyatt Kaiser burst onto the scene this year. With 17 points, Kaiser more than doubled his previous career high. On top of that, Wyatt Kaiser’s 36 takeaways were good enough to lead the team. Throughout the season, Kaiser showed flashes of great play. His skating on the blue line kept many plays alive throughout the year. As a young defenseman, the inconsistencies were there. But overall, it was a very good season manning the blue line for Kaiser.

Tony Marchese’s Grade: B

Kaiser continued to largely impress on the Blackhawks blue line in 2025-26. The 23-year-old logged career highs almost across the board and appeared in 77 games for the Hawks while averaging just over 19 minutes a night. Sure, his +/- took a bit of a hit compared to previous years, but outside of that, there wasn’t too much to complain about. With room for even further development, Kaiser has already solidified himself as an NHL caliber defenseman and should be a solid middle pairing guy for years to come.

Ron Luce’s Grade: B+

How about Wyatt Kaiser? After an incredible finish to the 2024-25 season, Kaiser stepped into the role as most dependable defenseman in 2025-26. Kaiser was able to work well with the unpredictable Artyom Levshunov, and found a way to play with everyone in the lineup. Kaiser’s not an offensive menace, but 17 points in 77 games is a respectable total. Kaiser is certainly in position to take another step forward, and was well worth a high grade.

What’s On Tap Next?

As mentioned, Kaiser could be in line for a nice contract after next season with another strong season. There is a good chance he will once again play alongside Artyom Levshunov, and a step forward for the young Belarusian should make Kaiser’s job easier as well. That said, he figures to be a second-pair guy for the Hawks in 2026-27.

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

Next Up: Kevin Korchinski