Three-Time Stanley Cup Champion Defenseman Signs with the Blackhawks
Over his illustrious 15-year career, defenseman Alec Martinez has impacted the game on the rink for the teams he has played for. The veteran Los Angeles Kings defenseman was initially moved from the Kings to the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2019–20 season, and he has already played for the latter team for five seasons. Martinez scored two goals in the 2023 Stanley Cup Finals while playing for the Golden Knights, helping Vegas win the Stanley Cup for the first time ever. Martinez was a sought-after commodity on the defensemen free agent market when he entered free agency this offseason following another impressive campaign last season. According to CBS Sports, the Blackhawks have signed Martinez to a one-year deal for four million.
The 36-year-old defenseman played his collegiate hockey career at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio with the RedHawks for three seasons from 2005-08. During his collegiate career, Martinez scored 21 goals, 46 assists, and 67 points in 123 games played. While playing with the RedHawks in 2007, the Los Angeles Kings would draft Martinez in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft and would be named to the 2009-10 season opening night roster for the Kings. With the Kings, Martinez was an integral part of Los Angeles hoisting two Stanley Cups in two of three seasons from 2012 to 2014. During the Kings’ second title run in 2014, Martinez ended up scoring two series-winning goals against the Blackhawks in the Western Conference Finals and against the New York Rangers in the Stanley Cup Finals. Over his 11-year career with the Kings, Martinez scored 62 goals, 136 assists, 198 points, and 16 power-play goals.
Martinez has played in 221 games over the last five seasons with the Golden Knights, totaling 21 goals and 58 assists, showcasing his scoring prowess on the Vegas blue line. Martinez has established a solid reputation as a dependable defenseman who can both block opponents' scoring opportunities and provide offensive support during his career. Martinez has the respect of both teammates and opponents due to his ability to block shots and defensive awareness in crucial times. His ability to join the rush and move the puck well will give the Blackhawks’ offensive game plan a new look heading into next season.
