Ethan Del Mastro excels after Chicago Blackhawks call-up

Ethan Del Mastro is having a strong season with the Chicago Blackhawks. After facing challenges in training camp, he has made significant progress since being called up to the NHL on January 23. Initially, he struggled to find his place and was assigned a lesser role in the AHL, while his friend Nolan Allan moved up the ranks. As of now, Del Mastro is set to play in his 19th NHL game this Saturday against the St. Louis Blues. He has been averaging nearly 18 minutes of ice time per game, and over 20 minutes this month. He has formed a strong defensive partnership with veteran Connor Murphy, becoming a key player for the team. Despite the Blackhawks currently experiencing a six-game losing streak, Del Mastro's skills on defense have shone through. He uses his 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame effectively without relying on big hits. Instead, he focuses on positioning and tactical plays to help his team. Del Mastro scored his first NHL goal on February 27 in Las Vegas. His growth this season has made him a hopeful long-term asset for Chicago's defense as the team rebuilds. Coaches believe in his potential, highlighting his vision, skating ability, and dedication to improving his game.