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The Chicago Blackhawks have announced the extension of one of the last remaining RFAs on the eve of training camp, giving defenseman Wyatt Kaiser a 2 year $1.7 million deal.
The 23 year old dman is one of many promising defenseman in the Hawks organization. Last season, he recorded 4 goals and 4 assists in 57 games.
Over the duration of his 3 year career in Chicago, the 2020 3rd round draft pick has registered 4 goals and 14 assists in 98 games.
What does this move mean for Chicago?
With the Kaiser deal having finally put pen to paper, the Blackhawks will have a crowded young blueline this season. Kaiser is one of many under 25 dmen on the Hawks roster which also includes Alex Vlasic, Sam Rinzel, Arty Levshunov, Ethan Del Mastro, Nolan Allan and Louis Crevier. The grizzled veteran Connor Murphy remains along with potentially Matt Grzelcyk, who just signed with the organization on a PTO (professional tryout contract).
With all these defenseman clamoring for spots, there will not be enough for all of them in the lineup. Meaning, at least one of them is probably going to have to be moved. Another option is keeping those eligible for the AHL in the system this season.
Kaiser will look to assert himself as a long term option on the Chicago backend during this short term "prove it" deal. The Minnesota native's role with the club will likely elevate following this move as he aims to earn the trust of the Hawks brass.
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