Chicago Blackhawks Lock Up Alex Vlasic To Long-Term Deal

The Chicago Blackhawks have locked up another huge piece of their future — and we do mean 'huge.' 6-foot-6 defenseman Alex Vlasic has agreed to a six year extension with a $4.6 million AAV.

#Blackhawks have signed D Alex Vlasic to a 6-year, $4.6M AAV contract extension, per @ByScottPowers
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) April 25, 2024

Vlasic was the second-round pick of the Blackhawks in the 2019 NHL draft, the 43rd selection overall, and was scheduled to become a restricted free agent this summer. His new deal locks him up through the 2030 season. And it's a dream come true for the Chicago kid.

“It’s amazing being able to play for my hometown team, the same city I grew up in, so I’m not really looking to go anywhere else. So yeah, I want to be here as long as possible," said Vlasic.

After a slow start to his career over the past couple of seasons, the 22-year-old broke through big time in 2023-24, soaring to the top defensive pairing, playing in 76 games for the Hawks, and being counted on for 21:29 of ice time per night. He blocked 148 shots, while registering 16 points and a minus-4 rating, not bad on a team that surrendered 111 more goals than it scored.

His own teammates recently voted him as one of the most underrated players on the team ("who doesn't get enough credit"), though he has gained more attention around the NHL.

A nice move for the Blackhawks, as they continue to build for the future.

Photo: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports