The DeBrincat Trade: One Year Later

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Ryan Hall
July 8, 2023 (11:22)

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It came as a surprise to many Blackhawks fans when the team decided to make a change in culture and personnel by trading away their up-and-coming star, Alex DeBrincat, to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for three draft picks.

This trade signified the end of the current team configuration and conveyed to the fan base that the organization was moving in a new direction.

When the trade was announced, the Blackhawks received the 2022 first-round pick, a 2022 second-round pick, and a third-round pick in 2024.

Initially, this trade seemed puzzling, as draft picks do not always pan out.
Fortunately for General Manager Kyle Davidson, the trade has turned out to be extremely successful.

One of the Blackhawks' top prospects, defenseman Kevin Korchinski, has been showing significant development over the past year while playing for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL. Standing at six-foot-three and weighing 185 pounds, Korchinski played 54 games for the Thunderbirds, tallying eleven goals and 62 assists for a total of 73 points.

These impressive numbers were achieved by a defenseman, he also had 54 penalty minutes with a +50 rating.

Korchinski's performance in the playoffs was equally remarkable. In 19 games, he scored three goals and provided 11 assists, resulting in a total of 14 points. Although the Thunderbirds made it to the Memorial Cup, they ultimately fell short, losing to the Quebec Remparts. Nonetheless, this experience of a long playoff run will be valuable for Korchinski.

On the other hand, the DeBrincat situation with the Senators continues to unravel. After playing one season with the Senators, DeBrincat informed General Manager Pierre Dorion that he had no intention of signing a long-term contract with the team. This left Dorion in a difficult position, especially with new ownership about to take over and one of their prized stars showing no desire to stay.

Overall, the Blackhawks emerged as winners in this trade. With Korchinski's impressive performance and the other draft picks also showing promise, the future is looking brighter for the Blackhawks. Meanwhile, the Senators continue to struggle, making them appear weaker in comparison.