Michigan, Minnesota Move On; Could Landon Slaggert Sign Soon?

The expected advancement of Michigan and Minnesota happened Saturday night as both took care of business in their respective games. The Wolverines finished off Notre Dame while the Golden Gophers sent Penn State packing. But the other question now, as the other Big 10 Blackhawks prospects move on, is if Landon Slaggert will sign with the Blackhawks sooner rather than later.

Slaggert potted another goal, giving him a pair in both Big Ten tournament games and giving him a round 20 for the season. If he inks a deal with the Hawks, he can slot into the lineup and cut his teeth at the NHL level for what might be a handful of games.

Of course, much remains to be seen.

Have always admired the competitiveness and class of @slaggs_9. What transpired moments ago was truly moving.

After his @NDHockey team was knocked out of the @B1GHockey playoffs, Landon brought the game puck to center ice and presented it to @umichhockey captain @jtruscott55.

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 10, 2024

Davidson on Landon Slaggert: ‘Relentless, High Compete Style’

Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson was asked about Slaggert several times on Friday following the trade deadline and his assessment of Slaggert was positive.

“He had a great year offensively especially, goal scoring, kind of found a little extra goal scoring punch, which I think is good for his confidence,” Davidson said.  “Again, being a leader there, getting a lot of time and playing against some pretty good teams in the Big Ten is a great experience.

But he just continued that style of play, the relentless, high compete style and added a little bit of offense this year, which was good to see and good for his confidence when his season is done and hopefully we can turn him pro.”

Davidson spoke often about confidence with not only the current roster, but many of the prospects as well. That confidence piece, something that will help push past a rebuild, is what Chicago needs in large doses. Slaggert’s leadership skills are lauded across the board, and he fits the profile of what Chicago is trying to build on and off the ice. High character, top notch skill, and hockey IQ that will carry the Hawks into contention.

So after a career season with Notre Dame, could Slaggert’s next trip be a couple hours further to the Blackhawks?

In that regard, Davidson deferred.

“That’s a conversation for another day when there are no more games for them,” Davidson said.  “Until there are no more games, we’ll just kind of just let them on their team.”

48 hours later, Slaggert’s collegiate game are finished. We’ll see soon what the Blackhawks are thinking.

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