Blackhawks recall intriguing forward from the AHL's Rockford IceHogs ahead of facing Stars Saturday

The Blackhawks made the call earlier Monday, bringing Slaggert back from Rockford after a short AHL stint that looked more like maintenance than development.

At 23, he remains part of the organization's near-term evaluation group.

Slaggert has dressed for 10 NHL games during the 2025-26 campaign, scoring one goal while averaging modest minutes in a bottom-six role. His usage has been straightforward: short shifts, north pressure, and a limited offensive leash from head coach Jeff Blashill.

In Rockford, the numbers came quickly. Slaggert produced four points on two goals and two assists across eight games, good for a 0.50 point per game pace that mirrors his college-to-pro transition curve.

The Blackhawks are thin on reliable forecheckers who can keep pace with faster teams, and Slaggert fits that profile. Drafted in the third round in 2020 by Chicago, his value has always been about pace and detail.

There is a sense among fans that Slaggert never looks out of place, even when the box score stays quiet, and that quiet reliability matters on a rebuilding roster.
Coach usage will decide the impact. Slaggert's straight-line speed helps on controlled exits, and he tends to finish checks without drifting out of structure, which keeps the defensive layer intact.

Chicago enters the matchup against the Dallas Stars needing legs more than flash.

Dallas ranks among the league's better transition teams, and Chicago has struggled containing speed through the neutral zone with the absence of Connor Bedard as he recovers from his injury.

Slaggert's recall hints at a possible rotation on the fourth line or a temporary bump alongside veterans who can insulate his offensive reads. His entry game is simple, chip and chase, but effective when supported.

The Blackhawks face the Stars on Tuesday at American Airlines Center, a tough building where mistakes compound quickly. Chicago's staff will value predictable shifts over risky creativity.

Whether Slaggert sticks beyond this recall remains open, every NHL game adds clarity to his long term role.