Blackhawks Player Grades: Wyatt Kaiser

The Chicago Blackhawks have a good problem on their hands with a plethora of young defensemen knocking on the door of the NHL. One such player has seen some NHL time over the last two seasons but thrived once playing considerable time in Rockford. Our next player grade is Wyatt Kaiser.

Kaiser was a third-round selection in the 2020 NHL Draft and spent three seasons at the University of Minnesota-Duluth before signing with the Hawks. He signed after his college season in 2022-23, appearing in nine games at the end of the campaign. Kaiser put up three assists and looked comfortable in 18:36 of average ice time .

Story of the Season

Entering 2023-24, Wyatt Kaiser was the presumed sixth defenseman on the roster and began the season in Chicago. After spending the first 20+ games on the NHL roster, Kaiser returned to the AHL to work on his game. After a strong showing in Rockford to the tune of 18 points (four goals, 14 assists) in 37 games, Kaiser returned to the NHL and played much better down the stretch in March, tallying three assists in just nine games while surpassing 20 minutes of ice time on several occasions.

Kaiser could be an early favorite for the upcoming season as a sixth or seventh defenseman. He'll compete with the likes of Louis Crevier, Isaak Phillips , and Ethan Del Mastro for that spot.

Player Grades

Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: C+

The 2023-24 season was a good development year for Wyatt Kaiser. He began the season with the Blackhawks, went to Rockford to work through some struggles and build confidence, and showed improvement upon his return to Chicago.

Tony Marchese's Grade: C

Wyatt Kaiser became an intriguing name on the Blackhawks blue line in 2023-24. The young defenseman got plenty of opportunity at the start of the season with the NHL club, but some growing pains saw him back in Rockford working out some kinks.

Appearing in 32 games at the NHL level and averaging over 17 minutes of ice time in those appearances, Kaiser finished the season at just a -4, which is quite impressive considering where the Blackhawks finished in the standings and in regards to goals allowed. The youngster was also able to notch seven assists in his time at the NHL level. A very solid development season for a 21-year-old defenseman.

Ron Luce's Grade: C+

Wyatt Kaiser had a rough start to the season, not looking quite as comfortable as he did in his nine-game showcase at the end of the 2022-23 season. However, after a quality 37 games in Rockford, Kaiser returned looking as good, if not better, than he did in his initial NHL stint. Now, Kaiser will be a name to keep an eye on if he's given an opportunity with a much more crowded blue line in 2024-25.

What's On Tap Next?

Wyatt Kaiser will compete with the aforementioned names for playing time at the NHL level, but that won't be easy. A loaded blue line with several veterans likely means Kaiser starts the season in Rockford. If he does, he could help headline one of the most talented blue lines in the AHL.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Wyatt Kaiser? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram !

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