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Chicago Blackhawks send defenseman to the AHL: A move that should be in play for Sam Rinzel

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Sam Walker
December 4, 2025 (11:41)

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The season hasn't gone as smoothly for Sam Rinzel lately and maybe that's a signal that a detour to the Rockford IceHogs (AHL) could do him good.

After a promising 2024-25 debut with the Chicago Blackhawks, his minutes have cratered with the club's decision to roll a seven-defenseman rotation.

That shift has meant far less ice time and even a «benching» in the third period of the most recent game, per reporter Scott Powers.

"Sam Rinzel played just one shift in the third period and on last night. It sounds like a coach's decision. He finished with 9:30 of ice time for the game. With the Hawks going with the seven defensemen, there can be pros and cons for the young defensemen."

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Rinzel logged just 9:30 in that outing, a large drop from the 20+ minute averages he saw as a rookie.

Rinzel's last 'standout' performance that garnered a lot of attention was back in October against the Montreal Canadiens.

His dip in usage feels less like a reflection on his potential than a byproduct of lineup structure and coaching choices.

Given that he remains the top prospect in Chicago's system, it might be time to consider letting him play big minutes somewhere he can build back his rhythm.

AHL time could restore Sam Rinzel's edge

Sending Rinzel to Rockford offers a chance to run on top pairing minutes, quarterback the power play, and log heavy minutes, all under less pressure than the NHL brings.

He thrived under that kind of responsibility last season during his college days and early Blackhawks games, showing smooth skating, good vision, and composure.

As a big, mobile defenseman skating at 6'4" and now roughly 195 pounds, Rinzel has the build to dominate at the AHL level and regain his confidence, a confidence he seemed to bring to Chicago last spring when making the jump from college hockey.

Moving him to Rockford doesn't close the door on his NHL future; rather, it could prime him to reclaim a prominent role when he returns.

In the end, this isn't about punishment, it's about development.

A reset with the IceHogs feels like the right move for both his future and the organization's long-term defense plan.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Projected lineups: Blackhawks hope Bedard continues buzzing vs. Kings Thursday

Oilers pull out of Laurent Brossoit trade talks over reason that could scare suitors away

Connor Bedard's highlight-reel goals outshined by Golden Knights Tuesday night

POLL
DECEMBRE 4 \| 190 ANSWERS Chicago Blackhawks send defenseman to the AHL: A move that should be in play for Sam Rinzel Do you think moving Sam Rinzel to Rockford IceHogs now would help him reach his potential faster?
Yes, go to Rockford	136	71.6 %
No, stay in Chicago	54	28.4 %
List of polls

Chicago Blackhawks send defenseman to the AHL: A move that should be in play for Sam Rinzel

The season hasn't gone as smoothly for Sam Rinzel lately and maybe that's a signal that a detour to the Rockford IceHogs (AHL) could do him good.

AHL time could restore Sam Rinzel's edge

Do you think moving Sam Rinzel to Rockford IceHogs now would help him reach his potential faster?