Sam Rinzel

Sam Rinzel (born June 25, 2004) is an American professional ice hockey defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League (NHL). 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 (AHL) affiliate.

International play

On December 16, 2023, Rinzel was named to the United States junior team to compete at the 2024 World Junior Championships.

Career statistics Regular season and playoffs

International Year Team Event Result GP G A Pts PIM 2021 United States HG18 5th 4 0 0 0 2 2024 United States WJC 7 0 1 1 2Junior totals 11 0 1 1 4

Awards and honors Award Year RefCollege Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year 2025 All-Big Ten First Team 2025 All-Big Ten Second Team 2024 All-Big Ten Freshman Team 2024 AHCA West First Team All-American 2025