CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks have signed two highly promising young players, Oliver Moore and Sam Rinzel, to entry-level contracts.
Both Moore and Rinzel recently played for the University of Minnesota, whose season ended with an NCAA Tournament loss to Massachusetts.
Their contracts are for three years, concluding after the 2026-27 season, each with a $950,000 salary cap hit. They are anticipated to make their NHL debut on Sunday against Utah.
Moore commented on leaving college, saying, “It’s emotional leaving teammates and friends, but we both felt ready for the NHL and have no regrets about taking this step.”
Moore and Rinzel are key components of Chicago`s developing talent pool, aimed at revitalizing the team. The Blackhawks may also add Ryan Greene, another prospect, after Boston University`s season concludes.
Moore, 20, was drafted 19th overall in 2023, while Rinzel, also 20, was a first-round pick in 2022.
Moore, known for his speed, scored 12 goals and 21 assists in 38 games in his second season at Minnesota, totaling 21 goals and 45 assists in 76 college games.
Moore has won two World Junior Championship gold medals with the U.S., and Rinzel was part of the 2024 gold-medal-winning team.
Rinzel, also from Minnesota, recorded 10 goals and 21 assists in 39 games this season and was recognized as the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Rinzel expressed his excitement, “Taking this step is a dream come true. It’s an opportunity to test myself at the highest level, and it was too good to pass up.”
Tristan Blackwood