Blackhawks Secure Vlasic For Six Years In A $4.6M A Year Steal

The Chicago Blackhawks have just announced a six-year contract extension for defenseman Alex Vlasic. The deal, worth a cap hit of $4.6 million per year, has been met with enthusiasm from both the team and fans alike. The contract, which runs through the 2029-30 season, is seen by many as a significant win for the Blackhawks.

Alex Vlasic, a 22-year-old defenseman, has had a breakout season with the Blackhawks, establishing himself as a key piece of the team's future. In his first full NHL season, Vlasic played in 76 games, logging 16 points (2 goals, 14 assists) and averaging 21:28 of ice time per game, the second-most on the team. His performance was a bright spot in a challenging season for the Blackhawks, who finished with a 23-53-6 record.

The contract extension is seen by many as a steal for the Blackhawks, given Vlasic's potential and the current market for defensemen. His cap hit of $4.6 million per year is comparable to other deals in the league, such as the seven-year, $4.3 million per year contract signed last summer by Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson. This similarity in contract terms suggests that the Blackhawks have secured Vlasic at a fair price, especially considering his strong performance this past season.

Vlasic's development over the past year has been a testament to his hard work and dedication. After a brief stint in the NHL in March 2022, where he scored a goal and an assist in his first taste of NHL action, Vlasic spent the next season in Rockford. This time in the AHL allowed him to play a big role on the blue line and gain confidence in his abilities. This experience was a significant step in his progression towards becoming a top-four defenseman in the NHL.

Looking ahead, Vlasic plans to continue to put in the work to improve his game. His focus for the offseason is to continue to put on some weight and get stronger, using his size as an asset. He also aims to develop a shoot-first mindset, making him a more dangerous threat from the blue line.

The contract extension is not only a win for the Blackhawks in terms of securing a talented young player for the long term, but it also sends a message to the rest of the league. It shows that the Blackhawks are committed to rebuilding and investing in their future. With Vlasic now a part of the team's young core, the Blackhawks are positioning themselves for a potential turnaround as soon as next season.

As for Vlasic, the contract extension is a vote of confidence from the team and a recognition of his talent and potential. It's a sign that the Blackhawks see him as a key part of their future and a player who can help lead the team back to success.