On Saturday, the Chicago Blackhawks agreed to a two-year contract with defenseman Kevin Korchinski, 22, a restricted free agent who played in 53 games with Rockford of the American Hockey League last season after being the No. 7 pick in the 2022 draft. The deal secures the young blueliner through the 2025-26 season. Korchinski, a highly touted prospect, continues his development within the Blackhawks organization after splitting time between the NHL and AHL in his rookie year.

The contract reflects Chicago’s commitment to building around its core of emerging talent.