The Chicago Blackhawks shared earlier today that Ethan Del Mastro was assigned to AHL Rockford. No corresponding transaction was made.
Recalled in mid-December, the defenseman only got into one game, recording 15:07 of ice time in a loss at Toronto on December 16. At 22, Del Mastro is among the Hawks’ more notable prospects, forecasting as a long-term solid third pairing defender with untapped raw potential, so sitting in the press box was naturally not beneficial.
Del Mastro will rejoin an IceHogs club where he still ranks as the second highest scoring defender, despite spending the past few weeks away. Only ranking above is Kevin Korchinski, another intriguing lefty. A nice find in the fourth round of the 2021 draft by Chicago, the Ontario native Del Mastro stands at 6’4” and has shown real two-way upside in the AHL. He managed to make 24 appearances for the Blackhawks last season, notching six points as a respectable -3 on a bottom feeding team.
As veteran Matt Grzelcyk entered the fold this season, Del Mastro’s opportunities at the highest level have been more limited. Chicago, currently at .500, has turned the corner from their struggles in previous years. However, still a long shot for the playoffs, at some point GM Kyle Davidson could consider moving Grzelcyk, a pending unrestricted free agent, and opening a spot for the steady youngster in the spring to stay in the lineup.
Until then, Del Mastro figures to be the team’s top option to call upon if any injuries affect their blue line, and will continue his development in Rockford.
Trade Grelcyk? I want them to extend him. I like him.What are they gonna get for him? Another draft choice they don’t need? Time to start keeping the good players. I have no idea why this guy couldn’t get a job except a PTO. He’s been a big help on the Hawks excellent PK with Mikheyev and Dickinson. I’d move Dickinson and keep the other 2. Now that the Hawks have only 6 D men you know somebody is gonna get hurt. It’s inevitable.
Murphy is probably going to get traded but he has quietly had a good season as well, i do feel like the Hawks should keep at least one of Murphy or Grzelyck given its better to at least have 1 or 2 veterans on defense, im ok with them both staying the rest of the year given the picks that would be acquired more likely could be nothing anyways might as well have a couple extra months of mentorship which would probably be the most valuable decision
Is he holding a boomerang?