Chicago Blackhawks: 'Hawks Sign Defenseman Michal Roszival

The Blackhawks have signed former Phoenix defenseman Michal Rozsival to a one-year deal, according to ESPN Chicago's Jesse Rogers on Twitter. The deal is reportedly for $2 million.

Rozsival recorded 13 points last season with the Coyotes with one goal and 12 assists. He also had a plus-eight rating for Phoenix.

What It Means

This move is more of a depth move than anything else. Rozsival will probably be the fifth defenseman on the roster. He will most likely pair up with Niklas Hjalmarsson on the Blackhawks' third defensive pairing.

The question is who the Hawks will get rid of or send down to Rockford. Dylan Olsen, Steve Montador and recently acquired Sheldon Brookbank are the three players who are most likely to either be dealt or sent down.

My guess is that Olsen will be sent down because he only played 28 games with the Hawks last season. He's also just 21 years old and could probably use a little bit more seasoning in Rockford.

This signing is an interesting one, but it could be a great addition to the Blackhawks' depth on the blue line. Rozsival can be very helpful on the penalty kill, and he could be utilized on the power-play unit as well. The Blackawks' biggest weakness was defense last season, and the addition of Rozsival can only help that unit get better.

Rozsival, 34, comes at a decent price and will add experience to a relatively young defensive unit.