Following UMD's 3-1 loss to St. Cloud State in the NCHC Quarterfinals, junior UMD defenseman Wyatt Kaiser has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, as announced by the club Tuesday afternoon. 

Kaiser was selected by the Blackhawks in the third round (81st overall) in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. A native of Andover, Minn., Kaiser played a huge role on the blueline the last three seasons. While wearing the Bulldogs in 97 games, the blueliner compiled 52 points over seven goals and 45 assists. In 35 games this past season, Kaiser set career highs in goals, assists and points as he registered five goals and 18 assists for 23 points. 

The blueliner has helped his team make two NCHC Frozen Faceoff appearances and scored the third goal in the 3-0 game to win UMD the Frozen Faceoff last season. Kaiser has also made two runs in the NCAA Tournament with UMD. With his performance this year, Kaiser earned NCHC Defenseman of the Week twice and All-NCHC Second Team Honors. Last year, the defenseman competed for Team USA at the 2022 World Junior Championships. During the 2020-21 season, Kaiser tabbed a NCHC Rookie of the Week honors. He also earned a spot on the NCHC All-Conference Rookie team and received All-NCHC Honorable Mentions. 

Wyatt joins former UMD Assistant Coach Derek Plante in the Blackhawks organization.