Kevin Korchinski Recalled From Rockford

Kevin Korchinski was called up from the Rockford IceHogs by the Chicago Blackhawks on March 27 with 10 games left in the regular season. The Blackhawks used their remaining call-up to see how Korchinski has improved since his last call-up on Dec. 9. 

With other defensemen jumping Korchinski in the depth chart many fans are left wondering what the future holds for the seventh overall pick in 2022. After an impressive WHL season with the Seattle Thunderbirds in 2022-23 (73 points in 54 games and a Memorial Cup Final appearance), it was clear that there was nothing more to gain at that level for the offensive-minded defenseman. Due to his age and CHL contract, Korchinski wasn't eligible for the AHL. After an impressive start, Korchinski played the entirety of the 2023-24 season with the Blackhawks. 

It wasn't great. But keep in mind, at 19 he was one of the youngest players in the league learning one of the toughest positions on a historically bad Blackhawks team. Additionally, Korchinski tragically lost his father, Larry, in Dec. 2023. 

76 games later with 15 points to show for it, Korchinski has spent the majority of his second year pro with the Rockford IceHogs. Once touted as a potential No. 1 defenseman for the Blackhawks, some fans are quick to write him off. When players surpass expectations like Alex Vlasic or show high promise like Artyom Levshunov, it's easy to understand why. 

Korchinski has 27 points in 54 games with Rockford. Korchinski made a very brief nine-game appearance in Dec. 2024 and averaged 17 minutes a game. He had zero points but the Blackhawks had a 51% expected goals share when he was on the ice. 

Let's not forget the skills that make Korchinski a potentially valuable blue-liner. His skating is excellent, he's fast, has solid puck handling, and he's a great passer. Defensemen take around 200 NHL games to feel comfortable. Give Korchinski a chance.