Blackhawks By Design: Second Pair Defensemen

After a lovely summer weekend, we're back with 'Blackhawks By Design'. So far, we've observed the following groups that will possibly make up the Chicago Blackhawks' roster this fall. 

• Third Pair & Depth Defensemen
• Fourth Line & Depth Forwards
• Goalie
• Third Line Forwards

Now, the conversation shifts to the second defensive pairing. On one hand, there is a blue line staple for this team for the last six years who will man one spot. The other spot is completely up for grabs. Without further ado, let's get into it. 

Connor Murphy

The staple, the veteran, the leader. Connor Murphy is one of the undisputed leaders on the Blackhawks roster. After being acquired for Niklas Hjalmarsson following the 2016-17 season, Murphy quickly became a fan favorite and a staple on Chicago's blue line. Whether its blocking shots, jumping into the play offensively, killing penalties, or roughing up opponents, Murphy does a little bit of everything for Chicago. 

Prior to the 2021-22 season, Connor Murphy was inked to a four-year contract extension. Murphy received a modest raise, jumping from $3.85 million per season to $4.4 million per season. 

That extension kicked in at the beginning of the 2022-23 season, leaving Murphy with three more seasons at a nice number for what he brings to the table. Murphy will be asked to do a lot next season, as he was in 2022-23. Without Jake McCabe on the Blackhawks' blue line, Murphy is by far the team's best stay-at-home defenseman. That said, he's also coming off a career-best seven goals last season. 

Murphy will wear an alternate captain's "A" this season without a single doubt. In addition, he'll be asked to support what will likely be a young defenseman on his other side. Who that will be you ask?

Kevin Korchinski

Kevin Korchinski had an outstanding 2022-23 season, which ended with a Memorial Cup appearance and a WHL championship for the Seattle Thunderbirds. In 54 regular-season games, Korchinski totaled 73 points (11 goals, 62 assists) in a tough Western Hockey League. Korchinski was a natural on the offensive side and made improvements in his defensive game as well. 

Add another 14 points in 19 WHL playoff games and you have a successful campaign for the 2022 No. 7 overall pick. Although he might not spend the entire season with the Blackhawks, I'm convinced he's going to get at least seven to nine games, allowing his contract to slide another year. 

Giving Korchinski an early look will give him an important taste of NHL action. After learning what it takes to play in the NHL, Korchinski can take that newfound knowledge back to Seattle for one more season before sticking in Chicago for good. 

It'll be fun to see Korchinski in Chicago, but it will likely be short-lived before he returns to Seattle. That said, he can certainly blow away the expectations and make a case to stick around longer. It all comes down to how the young defenseman plays. 

Other Names to Watch

With the number of depth names in the mix this season, there is a chance that the likes of Wyatt Kaiser, Isaak Phillips, Alex Vlasic, and even Ethan Del Mastro could get looks next to Connor Murphy. However, the season very well might start with the top defensive prospect for Chicago getting an extended look. The spot will likely be a shuffle all season long, but that will be a spot with a lot of anticipation. If one of the youngsters can stick opposite of Murphy, then the Blackhawks will be well on their way to building a strong top 4 of the future. 

What's On Tap Next?

Now that 2/3 of the defense is covered, and half of the forwards are covered, we'll move into the top six forwards. Next up, we examine the second forward line. This groups features a lot of skill and speed, making for a lot of anticipated fun in 2023-24.