Which Blackhawks rookie defensemen will break out this season?
As we watch the Blackhawks tank for a shot at Connor Bedard in the 2023 draft, it won't be surprising to see them save their younger talent for future seasons. With the Hawks signing veterans in order to flip them at the trade deadline, we might not see rookies until after that happens.
When it comes to defensemen, there are now six players on the roster who could be considered veterans of the game. Beyond Jack Johnson, Seth Jones, Caleb Jones, Jake McCabe, Connor Murphy and Riley Stillman, which rookies might we see get their chance to prove themselves?
Ian Mitchell and Nicolas Beaudin
Both Mitchell and Beaudin were utilized during the 2020-2021 season with 39 and 19 games, respectively. They saw less ice time last season and were consistent players on the Rockford IceHogs. Mitchell earned 35 points (11G, 24A) in 57 games, and Beaudin earned 16 points (2G, 14A) in 66 games.
Of the two, it's more likely that Mitchell would get more chances for Chicago over Beaudin. Even so, they're both familiar with the players in the locker room and could be assets to the team.
Jakub Galvas and Isaak Phillips
Although Phillips has one more AHL season under his belt, both he and Galvas each played a few games for the Blackhawks last season. Last season for the IceHogs, Galvas had 20 (2G, 18A) in 59 games and Phillips had 25 points (10G, 15A) in 64 games. If either of them is given more chances next season, they both have the speed and development to be successful.
From what we've seen of them last season, they're capable of utilizing their size and strength on the ice. They've each played 18 and 15 games for the Blackhawks, respectively, and they make their presence known through powerful shots and hits. Regula has more experience through Rockford, with 26 points (4G, 22A) in 41 games.
When Vlasic joined the team last season, he stayed with the Blackhawks through the rest of the season. With some time in Rockford to further develop, he could be ready in time for the rebuild.
Any of these players could see ice time next season even if it's only for a few games. More likely than not, we might not truly see their potential until after the Blackhawks tank through this next season.
| POLL | ||
Which of these defensemen would you like to see more of next season? | ||
| Ian Mitchell | 60 | 28.6 % |
| Jakub Galvas | 41 | 19.5 % |
| Alec Regula | 40 | 19 % |
| Someone else... | 69 | 32.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
