By Salem Chicago News Staff
CHICAGO — September 26, 2026
The Chicago Blackhawks loaned defenseman Connor Mackey to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League on Friday, trimming the training camp roster to 28 players.
The move came one day after the team sent forwards Sacha Boisvert, Connor Mylymok and AJ Spellacy to Rockford on Thursday. The current camp roster stands at 17 forwards, eight defensemen and three goaltenders.
The cuts signal which players remain in the mix as head coach Jeff Blashill shapes the lineup for the 2026-27 regular season. Blashill met with media Thursday on day nine of training camp to discuss player performances and preparedness for the season ahead.
Mackey signed a two-way contract with the Blackhawks in July. The 27-year-old defenseman appeared in limited NHL action last season.
Boisvert, 20, was selected in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft and is considered one of the organization’s top forward prospects. His assignment to Rockford does not preclude a recall before the regular season opens.
Mylymok and Spellacy also signed contracts with the organization this summer. Both are expected to develop in the AHL system before competing for NHL roster spots.
The Blackhawks enter the 2026-27 season with heightened expectations after a busy offseason. The franchise signed star center Connor Bedard to a five-year contract extension in July and agreed to terms with forward Patrick Kane on a two-year deal. Defenseman Bowen Byram, acquired from Buffalo in June, signed a six-year extension.
Chicago opens the preseason schedule in the coming days. The regular-season opener is set for October, with the full schedule and national TV broadcast slate already announced.
