Gavin Hayes, a promising forward in the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect pool, has recently ignited his scoring touch with the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs after a strategic coaching session. A few weeks ago, Hawks development staffer Will Moran introduced Hayes to clips of Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman, illustrating how Hyman’s work behind the net could inspire Hayes to elevate his game. Since then, Hayes has experienced a remarkable scoring streak, demonstrating renewed potential for NHL impact.
Lessons from Zach Hyman Fuel Hayes’ Offensive Upswing
During a video session, Moran highlighted the effectiveness of Hyman’s play around the back post, which Hayes embraced enthusiastically.
“Will showed me how [Hyman] gets to the back post and grits it up in front of the net,”
Hayes explained on Sunday.
“That threw that in my head, and obviously, it has worked out.”
This insight has translated into on-ice results, as Hayes has erupted with six goals in his last eight contests and amassed 15 points across 22 games since Christmas alone.
Hayes’ Scoring Spree Revives Prospect Status
Prior to this recent burst, Hayes, a third-round pick from 2022, had compiled only 22 points in 77 AHL games since last season began, making this surge a substantial development. His improvement has pushed him back into discussions among the Blackhawks’ crowded prospect pool, especially as he begins to establish himself as a potential bottom-six NHL forward with goal-scoring ability. Although his path to the NHL is far from certain, this momentum reignites hope within the organization.
Consistent Effort and Attitude Earn Praise from Coaching Staff
Rockford IceHogs head coach Jared Nightingale acknowledged Hayes’ perseverance through tough stretches without scoring.
“Gavin [has] had a lot of opportunities,”
Nightingale said.
“They weren’t going in for him, but he kept a really good attitude and showed up with the same mindset each day, wanting to get better. I’m happy for him. He’s had all those chances, and now they’re starting to go in.”
This mental resilience has been a key factor in Hayes’ recent success and increased playing time.
Hat Trick Highlights Confidence and Offensive Skill
Hayes’ confidence was on full display during a recent game against San Diego, where he recorded his first professional hat trick. He netted two slick goals off rushes in the opening period and finished with a gritty score from the low slot. His assertiveness carried into the rematch the very next day, where although he didn’t score, Hayes showcased high confidence by moving decisively in the offensive zone and earning a prime scoring chance with a sharp deflection in front of the net.
Growth Reflected in Expanded Role and Ice Time
Beginning the season on the IceHogs’ fourth line, Hayes has steadily worked his way into top-six forward and power-play roles as injuries and NHL call-ups have created openings. Increased ice time has allowed him to capitalize on his scoring abilities.
“It was a slow start, and then I got in a groove and started playing a little bit more and started shooting the puck a little bit more, and the confidence came with that. Bounces started going my way,”
Hayes noted. His physical presence has also strengthened, complementing his growing offensive output.
Playing Style and Comparison to Established NHL Prospects
Standing 6-foot-1, Hayes has enhanced his puck-handling and playmaking by leveraging his vision on the ice.
“I’m holding onto [the puck] a little bit more, making plays, because I can see the ice pretty well,”
he stated. Fellow Hawks prospect Marek Vanacker also drew inspiration from Hyman’s style, partly due to their connection with the Brantford OHL team, owned by Hyman’s family, where Vanacker and former prospect Nick Lardis play. Hayes’ gritty net-front presence and complementary scoring resemble traits seen in NHL winger Tyler Bertuzzi, though Hayes’ ceiling likely won’t reach elite goal-scoring heights.
Prospect Progression and Future Outlook Within Blackhawks Organization
At 21 years old, soon turning 22, Hayes still has substantial room for growth. When compared to fellow 2022 Day Two picks, he now outpaces teammates Samuel Savoie, Aidan Thompson, and Paul Ludwinski in Rockford, although Ryan Greene has already made his NHL debut. Meanwhile, the rapid NHL success of sixth-round pick Dominic James with the Tampa Bay Lightning remains a benchmark for the Blackhawks’ developing prospects. Hayes’ rebound this season provides motivation that he could carve out a rewarding NHL career if he sustains his current trajectory.
JUST 30 SECONDS INTO THE GAME⏱️ https://t.co/12IJKnbWYA pic.twitter.com/JuYmQPATvO
— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) February 22, 2026
