In a move aimed at fostering development and providing valuable ice time, the Chicago Blackhawks have assigned defenseman Sam Rinzel and forward Landon Slaggert to their AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs. The Blackhawks announced the roster moves on Monday.

Rinzel, a first-round pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, is considered one of the Blackhawks' top prospects. The 21-year-old has played 28 games with the Blackhawks this season, recording eight points (one goal, seven assists). He also shares fifth among League rookies with 29 blocked shots. Despite showing promise, Rinzel's ice time has fluctuated, and the assignment to Rockford is seen as an opportunity to regain his confidence and refine his game.

"This is not a punishment — it's timing and development," reports Hockey HotStove. "Rinzel has shown NHL flashes but needs consistency and heavier usage. A stint in Rockford should give him a chance to run the power play, tighten his defensive reads, and regain confidence after a demanding first half of the season".

Slaggert, 23, has appeared in 10 NHL games with Chicago this season, scoring one goal. He has also posted 16 hits and four blocked shots. Prior to the assignment, Slaggert had one goal in three AHL games with Rockford. The forward's playing time with the Blackhawks has been limited, averaging just over nine minutes per game. The move to Rockford is expected to provide him with more consistent minutes and opportunities to develop his offensive game.

Second City Hockey reports that Slaggert's situation differed from Rinzel's, noting that Slaggert hasn't been included in the lineup consistently. He last played on November 26th, logging less than five minutes of ice time.

The Blackhawks are currently in a rebuilding phase, prioritizing the long-term development of their young players. Rockford has played a key role in this process, providing a structured environment for prospects to adjust to the professional level. Several current Blackhawks players have benefited from development time with the IceHogs.

The IceHogs' coaching staff will focus on providing Rinzel and Slaggert with opportunities in various situations, including special teams, to broaden their skill sets. The Blackhawks hope that this increased ice time and focused development will accelerate their progress and prepare them for larger roles with the NHL club in the future.

According to the Associated Press, the Blackhawks, with a record of 12-11-6, have lost eight of their last ten games. Following a lackluster road trip, the team hopes these roster moves will contribute to a positive change in momentum. With Rinzel and Slaggert in Rockford, Sam Lafferty is expected to draw back into the Blackhawks lineup until Nick Foligno returns from injury.