Chicago Blackhawks bring up defenseman Ethan Del Mastro from the minors

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Blackhawks are taking a closer look at one of their top prospects for at least a couple of days.

Defenseman Ethan Del Mastro was recalled from Rockford of the American Hockey League on Thursday.

The 21-year-old Del Mastro was selected by Chicago in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL draft.

The Blackhawks (23-50-5) host Nashville on Friday night and play Carolina on Sunday in their home finale.

“We’re hoping he’ll play tomorrow, possibly the home game Sunday and then maybe get him back in the groove in Rockford,” coach Luke Richardson said of Del Mastro. “But it’ll just depend on health here, too.”

Blackhawks defenseman Alex Vlasic missed practice on Thursday in what the team announced as a maintenance day. Connor Murphy, one of the team’s top defensemen, is expected to play against the Predators after missing most of the season with a groin injury.

“I feel fully capable of everything I’m doing on the ice,” Murphy said. “There’s always going to be a little bit of soreness, I think, but as long as it’s not pain, then I’m happy with that.”

Del Mastro has seven goals and 30 assists in 66 games with Rockford. He also was selected for the 2024 AHL All-Star Classic in San Jose.

Del Mastro said he wasn’t thinking about a promotion, but he is “super excited” for the opportunity.

“I knew they had a small amount of games left so it was more-so just focusing on Rockford and then it kind of caught me off guard,” he said. “But it’s pretty awesome.”

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