Following his final collegiate season, Oliver Moore signed with the Chicago Blackhawks and made an impact in his short NHL stint.
As we pick back up with our player grades series, its time to take a look at the future of the Chicago Blackhawks. After examining many of the veterans and the current faces of the franchise, we turn our attention to a late arrival during the 2024-25 season. After a strong collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, Oliver Moore joined the Blackhawks for a cup of coffee down the stretch last season.
Story of the Season
Mar 30, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Oliver Moore (11) shoots against Utah Hockey Club defenseman Nick DeSimone (57) during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Moore suited up for 38 games at the University of Minnesota in 2024-25, finishing fourth on the team in points with 33 (12 goals, 21 assists). After Minnesota’s premature end to their tournament run, Moore signed with the Blackhawks and played in the final nine games of the season, tallying four assists along the way.
Perhaps the most game-altering skill in Moore’s arsenal is his speed, flying around and disrupting the opposing team. Although the youngster has yet to find the back of the net, his speed can become a game-changing element in the team’s bottom-six as soon as next season.
Although Moore was drafted as a center, he’ll likely stick at wing next season. The young forward can develop as a part of the bottom-six, potentially playing higher in the lineup in the event of injuries. Overall, Moore got a small taste of NHL action in 2024-25, but should have a healthy chance of making the roster this fall.
Player Grades
Steve Kwiatkowski’s Grade: B-
Moore had a dissapointing college season with the University of Minnesota. The goals didn”t find their way into the net until the latter half of the season. I wasn’t too optimistic about Moore when he debuted. I feel a lot better now seeing his speed and his decision making. I won’t be surprised if he spends time in Rockford next year, although I don’t think he should.
Tony Marchese’s Grade: C+
FAST. That is the only word to describe Oliver Moore. In limited time with the Hawks last season, Moore didn’t look too out of place making the jump from the college ranks to the NHL, but he was far from the most impressive in the Hawks crop of youth that also made the jump to the NHL.
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Ron Luce’s Grade: B
Speed kills, and it is clear that Kyle Davidson wants the future of the Blackhawks to be fast. Moore joined the team late with fellow Golden Gopher Sam Rinzel and immediately made an impact. His game is FAR from perfect, but he was a fun player to watch. I think a B is a fair grade for the youngster who will likely start the season with the team come October.
What’s On Tap Next?
For Oliver Moore, training camp will be the next crucial step in his development. The young forward will likely receive every opportunity to make the team, but he needs to prove he’s ready. If he isn’t, a trip to Rockford to begin the year is certainly a possibility. However, if Moore continues to play like he did during his cup-of-coffee stint, he will see NHL action in 2025-26.
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