Sam Rinzel
Sam Rinzel is an American professional ice hockey defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League. He was drafted by the Blackhawks 25th overall in the 2022 NHL entry draft. He played college ice hockey for the University of Minnesota.
Playing career
At the conclusion of his junior season with the University of Minnesota in 2024–25, Rinzel concluded his collegiate career by signing a three-year, entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on March 29, 2025. He played in nine games in the 2024–25 NHL season and registered five assists.During the 2025–26 season, Rinzel scored his first NHL goal during a 3–2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on October 11, 2025. On December 8, after recording eight points in 28 games, he was assigned to the Rockford IceHogs, Chicago's American Hockey League affiliate.