A restricted free agent defenseman has signed a two-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks, ending his first professional season split between the NHL and the American Hockey League. The player, selected in the 2022 draft, appeared in over half the games last year while developing with the Blackhawks’ affiliate team. His transition from junior hockey to professional play marks a key move for the franchise’s defensive depth. Fans and analysts will watch to see how his offensive contributions and defensive stability translate at the NHL level.

On Saturday, the Chicago Blackhawks agreed to a two-year contract with defenseman Kevin Korchinski, 22, a restricted free agent who played in 53 games with Rockford of the American Hockey League last season after being the No. 7 pick in the 2022 draft.