Blackhawks Recall Defensemen Korchinski and Rinzel Amid Injury

Prospects called up to boost blue line depth with Wyatt Kaiser sidelined

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled defensemen prospects Kevin Korchinski and Sam Rinzel from their AHL affiliate in Rockford, as defenseman Wyatt Kaiser was placed on injured reserve. This move aims to provide added depth on the blue line with Kaiser out and the Blackhawks' defensive corps facing challenges.

Why it matters

With no Blackhawks defensemen participating in the Olympics, Korchinski and Rinzel have an opportunity to earn meaningful ice time and contribute to the team's struggling offense and defense. Their performance could influence the Blackhawks' defensive strategies as the season progresses and Kaiser works towards recovery.

The details

Korchinski, the Blackhawks' 7th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, is expected to fill the role vacated by Kaiser as a left-handed defenseman. He has posted a 5-45-50 scoring output over 101 AHL games, but with a minus-39 rating overall. Rinzel, who impressed in his NHL debut late last season, has earned 14 points in 23 AHL games this year but is one of four right-handed defensemen competing for minutes on the Blackhawks' active roster.

  • On February 4, Wyatt Kaiser was placed on injured reserve.
  • The Blackhawks announced the recalls of Korchinski and Rinzel on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Kevin Korchinski

A defenseman prospect selected 7th overall by the Blackhawks in the 2022 NHL Draft, who has posted a 5-45-50 scoring output over 101 AHL games with a minus-39 rating.

Sam Rinzel

A defenseman prospect picked by the Blackhawks in the 2022 NHL Draft, who impressed in his NHL debut late last season with five assists in nine games, but has struggled to earn consistent ice time this season.

Wyatt Kaiser

A Blackhawks defenseman who suffered a lower-body injury and was placed on injured reserve, but is expected to return before the end of the season.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This recall signals a critical moment for Chicago's defensive unit, testing how emerging players like Korchinski and Rinzel can contribute under pressure. Their performance could influence the Blackhawks' defensive strategies as the season progresses and Kaiser works towards recovery.