Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Blackhawks get the 25th overall pick in the draft?
The Blackhawks acquired the 25th overall pick and goaltender Petr Mrazek from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for the 38th overall pick. Chicago benefited from Toronto's salary dump trade.
Who did the Blackhawks select with the 25th pick?
The Blackhawks selected 17-year-old defenseman Sam Rinzel from Chaska High and the Waterloo Black Hawks of the USHL with the 25th overall pick.
What are Sam Rinzel's stats and physical measurements?
Rinzel had 38 points in 22 games with Chaska High, recording 9 goals and 29 assists. He stands 6'4" tall and weighs 181 pounds, making him a right-handed defenseman with exceptional skating ability.
Was Sam Rinzel considered a reach at the 25th pick?
Yes, selecting Rinzel at 25th overall is viewed as a stretch since he was mentioned as a potential second-round option. However, he matches what Head Coach Luke Richardson wants in a defenseman with his size, handedness, and skating ability.
What is Petr Mrazek's contract and how did he perform last season?
Mrazek has a yearly salary of $3.8 million that expires at the end of the 2024 season. Last year he posted poor numbers with a 3.34 goals against average and 0.888 save percentage over 20 games in an injury-riddled season.