Blackhawks' Former 7th Overall Pick Emerges As Trade Candidate
Korchinski is three years removed from his rookie season and still struggling to get into the Blackhawks lineup.
A Player Stuck In The Press Box
Korchinski was the seventh overall pick in 2022, and has played in just three of Chicago’s first 12 games this season.
He’s no longer waiver-exempt, which means the Blackhawks can’t send him to the AHL without exposing him to other teams.
There's no chance Kevin Korchinski gets put on waivers, yet he's still living in the team hotel, awaiting his housing letter. After a strong close to last season, Korchinski's trying to prove he belongs in the NHL. But will he get a fair shot? My story: https://t.co/5FkcaTgA4G
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) October 4, 2026
If everyone stays healthy, Chicago has no immediate reason to change its blue line, where Korchinski competes with Artyom Levshunov, Sam Rinzel, and others.
Korchinski has played 108 career NHL games, recording six goals, 20 total points, a -48 plus/minus rating, 110 blocked shots, and averaged 18:17 time on ice.
What Chicago Is After
The Blackhawks are 31st in points percentage after 12 games, and GM Kyle Davidson is reportedly looking to the trade market for outside help.
Kevin Korchinski, along with Dominic Toninato, are still on the ice LONG after the optional skate this morning. #Blackhawks He’s putting in the work. https://t.co/EfbJ88VI7n
— Gail Kauchak (@littlegailk) October 17, 2026
Davidson has reportedly been looking for shoot-first scoring wingers with size, and there have been a lot of scouts at the United Center, though the market is said to be lukewarm.
