The Blackhawks signed Kevin Korchinski to a two-year contract on Saturday, locking up their 2022 first-round pick before arbitration. The 22-year-old defenseman spent last season in the AHL with Rockford, appearing in 53 games as he continues his development after being selected seventh overall three years ago.
Korchinski has yet to establish himself as a regular in Chicago's NHL lineup, spending most of his time grinding in the minors. This deal keeps him in the organization while both sides avoid the arbitration process. The contract terms give the Hawks flexibility with a young player still working toward making a full-time impact at the NHL level.