This prospect is making it hard for Blackhawks to not consider an NHL recall

The 21-year-old defenseman has had flashes of offensive impact in his first few AHL games, and his confident puck play is getting fans talking again.

Rinzel started this season with the Blackhawks, where he logged one goal and seven assists in 28 NHL games before he was sent down to the AHL's Rockford IceHogs.

That eight-point start came while he faced the pressure of playing big minutes and adjusting to the pace of his second pro campaign.

The IceHogs assignment came after a dip in confidence and a reduction in ice time for Rinzel with Chicago. Head coach Jeff Blashill was clear the move wasn't a punishment but a strategic step to get Rinzel's «swagger with the puck back» with regular minutes and role responsibility.

Rinzel has notched multiple assists in his first few IceHogs games, showing crisp decision-making at both ends of the ice. He's been recognized for crisp outlet passes and quick reads that reflect the tools scouts raved about when Chicago drafted him.

From a fan perspective, this feels like a reset that could pay dividends down the road, not just a listless shove to the minors. People who follow the IceHogs closely are pointing out how his skating and composure have returned, and that's what made him a coveted defensive prospect in the first place.

Rinzel's 6-foot-4 frame and poise with the puck are trademarks of his game, and now he's getting chances in all situations at the AHL level. That consistency is something Chicago hopes he can translate back to the NHL later this season, or even this upcoming week, with a roster spot opening up due to Connor Bedard's injury.

There's also a broader pipeline angle here, with Rockford ice time seen as a key development tool for young defensemen. Rinzel's early production and regained confidence could speed up his path to becoming a regular on Chicago's blue line.