Report: Blackhawks likely to demote young summer acquisition

Mark Lazerus of the Chicago Sun reports this afternoon that the Chicago Blackhawks are likely to send a young defenseman down to Rockford to get some ice time.

The Blackhawks have some good depth at D right now - with the blue line featuring Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook, Michal Kempny, Connor Murphy, Jan Rutta, Gustav Forsling, and Cody Franson. 

This leaves Jordan Oesterle on the outside looking in. Joel Quenneville likes the player - but with the depth they have, it will be hard to slot him in much, barring poor performances and injury. Sending him to Rockford is the best option for him - he'll get plenty of playing time and the ability to prove that he is in fact an NHL defenseman.

Oesterle will have to clear waivers should he be sent to the AHL.