Kevin Korchinski’s Position with the Chicago Blackhawks

Kevin Korchinski is in an intriguing situation as the 2026-27 season begins. The Chicago Blackhawks defenseman spent a significant portion of the offseason as a restricted free agent. While other RFAs like Connor Bedard and Drew Commesso finalized new contracts, there was uncertainty about Korchinski’s future with the team. This uncertainty ended with his signing of a two-year, $2.65 million contract on August 29.

In discussing the contract process, Korchinski remarked that he wasn’t overly concerned about reaching a deal, explaining that it was out of his control. He focused instead on personal development during the offseason, working with various coaches to improve his skills.

Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson adopted a relaxed stance regarding the timing of contracts, including those of Korchinski and fellow defenseman Ethan Del Mastro, who signed a two-year, $1.9 million contract in mid-September. Davidson emphasized the importance of player growth and gaining experience.

With Korchinski no longer exempt from waivers, the team retained him on the roster to prevent him from being claimed by another team. Despite adding other defensemen, such as Bowen Byram and Ian Cole, the contract indicated that the Blackhawks had plans for Korchinski, the 2022 No. 7 draft pick.

During preseason games against the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues, Korchinski had limited playtime with AHL-heavy lineups. The finalized roster included 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goaltenders. Eight defensemen, including Korchinski and Del Mastro, seemed logical initially, considering coach Jeff Blashill’s use of varied lineups last season.

Before the season opener, Blashill explained his approach to lineups, focusing on finding ways to win and suggesting no planned defensemen rotation. Korchinski and Del Mastro debuted in Buffalo while Byram was away, but Korchinski logged the least ice time among defensemen, and Blashill later praised Del Mastro’s performance.

Korchinski faces limited opportunities for play this season, reliant on injuries or off-ice matters among current top defensemen. Blashill appears hesitant to integrate him into the top six. The Hawks previously recalled Del Mastro from Rockford due to injuries, rather than Korchinski.

To build trust and earn a position, Korchinski emphasizes the importance of attentive practice and learning from experiences. Despite his rookie struggles in previous seasons, he remains focused on improvement.

Both Blashill and Davidson highlight the need to develop young talent, although Korchinski has yet to fully benefit from this. Mistakes are expected with such a young team, as Blashill stated regarding another player’s early-season performance.

Korchinski, currently a reserve option, embraces his situation by learning from more experienced teammates. He cites Byram and Cole as valuable influences for his development, identifying small successful aspects to incorporate into his game.

Cole is on a one-year contract, potentially signaling a timeline for Korchinski’s readiness. However, Korchinski acknowledges that frequent healthy scratches won’t aid his progress.

Ultimately, Korchinski’s priority is preparation for his opportunity, focusing on consistent practice, maintaining physical fitness, and being moment-ready.