Where does Slater Koekkoek fit into Blackhawks plans?

Slater Koekkoek was a highly-touted prospect once upon a time after getting drafted No. 10 overall in 2012 by Tampa Bay. He was supposed to be part of their long-term plans on the blue line.

For whatever reason, Koekkoek struggled to break through and unlock his full potential. Injuries certainly haven't helped. He's had a few shoulder surgeries that have gotten in the way of his development as a young player. But he didn't mention that or use it as an excuse.

Koekkoek wanted to make it work in Tampa Bay. He reportedly never requested a trade, even though he continued to slip down the depth chart. It didn't help his cause that the Lightning have won 17 of their past 19 games, so there hasn't…