• Rockford IceHogs defenseman Joni Tuulola signed with KooKoo of the Finnish Liiga. Tuulola was not likely to see time with the Blackhawks and probably did not want to spend yet another season in the AHL. The Finland native played 114 games with Rockford over parts of the last three seasons and had 22 points (six goals, 16 assists). Chicago will retain his rights, but we have likely seen the last of the 24-year-old blue liner.
• Rockford IceHogs forward Tim Soderlund was loaned to Almtuna IS of the HockeyAllsvenskan league. The 22-year-old Swede split last season between Rockford and the Indy Fuel during an injury-plagued season. He was limited to 36 games and scored nine points (three goals, six assists).
• Blackhawks 2019 fourth-round draft pick left wing Michal Teply was loaned to BK Mlada Boleslav of the Czech League. Teply was signed to an entry level deal on April 4 after playing last season with the Winnipeg Ice of the WHL. He had a very successful year in Winnipeg, scoring 63 points (29 goals, 34 assists) in 53 games. He is likely slated to spend the 2020–21 season with the Rockford IceHogs if/when the NHL and AHL seasons open. Since he was initially drafted out of the Czech Republic, he can avoid the NHL/CHL agreement that would normally force players to return to the CHL rather than playing in the AHL.
• Rockford IceHogs center Philipp Kurashev was loaned to HC Lugano in Switzerland’s National A League. The 20-year-old 2018 fourth-round draft pick also suffered through an injury-plagued season on Rockford last season. Kurashev only appeared in 36 games and scored 19 points (seven goals, 12 assists).
• Recent Blackhawks signee Pius Suter was loaned to GCK Lions of Switzerland’s National B League. Suter was signed as a free agent on July 16 and is expected to compete for a roster spot with the Blackhawks when training camp eventually takes place.

The post Blackhawks news and notes — Sept. 8, 2020 appeared first on The Rink.

Before the postseason, Olli Maata was tabbed as a likely buyout candidate. By all accounts, he had a pretty solid series against the Vegas Golden Knights and now may be sticking around regardless of his hefty price tag. We can all whine about Brent Seabrook’s contract, but he will be back and that is that. Duncan Keith will be still be in the fold. Adam Boqvist will continue to grow as a player, and Calvin de Haan will likely return. Slater Koekkoek is now a restricted free agent, and if the Hawks are trying to make room for highly touted prospect Ian Mitchell, then we may have seen the last of Koekkoek and Bowman could deal his rights. Sure, Bowman could keep him with a cheaper deal and then have Koekkoek and Lucas Carlsson round out No. 7 and 8 on the depth chart and leave it at that.

But, that is exactly what that would be, “leaving it at that.” Candidly speaking, other than a possible marginal upgrade with Mitchell in the mix (though he is hardly a can’t-miss prospect), the Hawks’ blue line will again be mediocre, they will be outshot frequently and will need to rely on their goaltending and offense to win games. So, barring a much-needed shakeup in the back, which may or may not happen, that is what we are looking at.

So, what does that mean for the rearguards of Rockford? Well, one thing that Bowman has prioritized in recent years is the acquisition of defensive prospects. Some will argue he has drafted and acquired too many that are of the same style. I am of that mindset as well, but there is some significant talent in the bunch, and the 2020–21 Rockford IceHogs could have players in a defensive unit with with realistic NHL aspirations.

Rockford has some holes to fill on defense, with some from last year’s squad up for contract who likely will not be re-signed. T.J. Brennan and Ian McCoshen will most likely not be back and the same can possibly be said for Joni Tuulola. In addition, some recent later-round draft picks by Bowman will not be signed. 2019 seventh-round pick Cole Moberg will head back to Prince George for his final year in the WHL, which is smart for him. Roope Laavainen, a 2017 fourth-round draft choice, has signed a pro deal in the IPK second division in Finland. 2017 fifth-round selection Jakub Galvas has signed in Finland with Mikkelin Jukuritt. Alex Vlasic, a solid 6-foot-6 second-round prospect from the class of 2019, will most likely be skating for Boston University for the next two seasons. None of those names will be seen anytime soon. But, while those guys may factor in at some point or never, there are assets under contract who will be skating 90 minutes northwest of Chicago. Where do they fit in? Let’s take a look.

Lucas Carlsson — LHD

Let’s assume that Mitchell lives up to the hype machine and immediately makes the Hawks’ roster out of camp. Well, many fans want to see Carlsson as a permanent fixture with the big club as well. He is included on this list is even if that is indeed the case, as under the current defensive structure, he may still see some time in the AHL next season. Carlsson is a smooth skater that moves the puck well, can provide some offense and plays responsibly in his own end. In a mere six games with the Hawks this past season, he was steady. If Bowman and Jeremy Colliton do not plan on playing him, and have him around to practice and sit in the press box for games, that makes little sense. If Maatta is bought out, the window is open for Carlsson, unless the Hawks go shopping. With two strong seasons under his belt in Rockford, it is time for the Hawks to get serious about this player or look to move him.

Lucas Carlsson carries the puck during a Rockford IceHogs game. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Dennis Gilbert — LHD

Known for his toughness and adding a spark when he is in the lineup in Chicago, Gilbert is easy to root for. He played 21 games with the big club last season, but candidly, if he plays more than that in Chicago next season, it will be clear that the Hawks are really struggling. The kid has a ton of heart, but his long-term prognosis is most likely to be an AHL regular. For Rockford, ultimately he will have the chance to be a leader and could be a solid contributor for any AHL team for a long time. He will see some games in the NHL this season, but it is hard envision that with regularity.

Hard-nosed Dennis Gilbert could see another season of shuttling back and forth from Rockford to Chicago. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Blackhawks)

Nicolas Beaudin — LHD

Beaudin will likely need another full year in Rockford, and then it will be make-or-break time for him. Some think we are already there and would like to see him dealt now for team upgrades in the event he does not pan out. He is not big at 5-foot-10, is only 20 years old and showed last season that he does need to refine his defensive habits and his skating before progressing to the NHL. Posting 15 points and a minus-5 rating in Rockford last season is evidence of that. There is upside and another season in Rockford will do him well, but is this recent first-round pick expendable? Perhaps.

First round pick Nicolas Beaudin is one of two #Blackhawks making an NHL debut tonight at the United Center. pic.twitter.com/2KhMfDas72

— Eric Lear (@EricLear312) March 11, 2020

Chad Krys — LHD

With the signing of Wyatt Kalynuk this summer, excluding Carlsson, that is the three left-handed defensive prospects of the same mold: mobile, offensive, undersized and not refined defensively. Unfortunately, Krys is one of those three, and you begin to wonder where his next stop will be professionally. He is similar to fellow BU alum Adam Clendening, where you want to like him but his limitations prevent that. For Rockford, Krys could have a very good year. The 2016, second-round pick will be a third-year pro and is a good enough skater at the AHL level. Still, his gap control and his in-zone play need attention. He will not be ready to make the jump to the NHL in 2020–21 and you start to wonder if he ever will, considering the logjam of prospects at his position. When Bowman is considering moves this offseason, do not be surprised to see his name involved in a potential trade.

Chad Krys plays a similar style to a number of young defensemen in the system, which may limit his prospects within the organization. (Photograph courtesy of the Texas Stars)

Wyatt Kalynuk — LHD

There was a lot of buzz about this kid when he signed with the Hawks in July. Kalynuk has elite skating ability. When he skates forward, he flies and creates an enormous amount of offense. That will be exciting to see as a first year pro in Rockford. What he was unable to prove at the NCAA level is having the ability to win 50/50 pucks in his own end. The AHL is still an upgrade from the Big 10, and he will have some work to do, unless the intentions are to groom him solely into a power play specialist. There has been excitement about Kalynuk and it is warranted, but a full year in the “A” is necessary.

"A good, well-rounded player that I think has a good opportunity to step in and contribute at the NHL level."

Assistant General Manager Mark Eaton shares his thoughts on new #Blackhawks defenseman Wyatt Kalynuk. pic.twitter.com/NEDGOlKlbk

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 18, 2020

Alec Regula — RHD

Of all the current defensive prospects in the treasure chest for the Blackhawks, this may be the one with the most upside. I do not traditionally bet against London Knight alums coached by Dale Hunter, and I would not bet against this one either. I am not sure what Steve Yzerman was thinking when handing over Alec Regula for Brendan Perlini last fall, but that is his and Detroit’s problem. Regula is big, tough, right-handed, can skate and can provide offense. He tallied 60 points in 56 games in his final season in London, and while Mitchell could win fan popularity contests in the future, Regula could be an anchor for the Hawks down the road. He is 6-foot-4, 205 pounds and is still figuring it out, but has a high ceiling. Yes, he will more than likely see a full year in Rockford, but if he continues to progress at the rate he has the last few years, he will be in Chicago before we know it.

BREAKING: #Blackhawks sign Alec Regula to entry level deal
by @PuckinHostile#HockeyTwitter #BlackhawksProspects #Rinkrats https://t.co/foVPxxGB0O

— The Rink – Hockey coverage (@TheRinkOfficial) November 11, 2019

Rockford still has a few gaps on the back end and one or two right-handed defensemen will most likely be inked before the AHL season commences in December. Nick Seeler may very well play a few games in Rockford, but if the Hawks hang on to him, he will most likely be with the big club in a very limited role.

As always, the NCAA is a solid feeding ground for AHL talent and there are some strong rearguards that can contribute to the Hogs. Among the promising blue liners that are unsigned are some of the following:

Josh Maniscalco — RHD (Arizona State)              

Maniscalco is a rock. At the completion of his sophomore year at ASU, he registered 11 goals and 21 assists in 36 games. Though a rising junior, he is undrafted, and with so much uncertainty facing college hockey, luring him into a professional contract is worth considering. At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he is a legitimate professional prospect and ultimately, the NHL is not out of reach for him.

Connor Moore — RHD (Boston College)

For four seasons, Moore played in every situation for the Eagles. He can kill penalties, contribute on the power play and his gap control and willingness to battle for loose pucks are among his attributes. Had the season not been cancelled for him and his third-ranked Eagles, a Frozen Four appearance could have been in the cards, and he may have be penned to a deal by now. He could be a player that would fill a nice roll with the other prospects in Rockford.

Four-year Boston College letterman Connor Moore could be a useful addition to the Rockford IceHogs. (Photograph courtesy of DistinctAthlete)

Mike Lee — LHD (Sacred Heart)

Sacred Heart had a season for the ages and was NCAA-bound for the first time in program history. Lee was a big reason for that. 33 points in 32 games and a left-handed defenseman that can play both sides. He could be useful for the Hogs in 2020–21, and could be a decent contributor for a few seasons.

The post ANALYSIS: Assessing the Rockford IceHogs’ blue line for 2020–21 appeared first on The Rink.

After nixing an NHL deal with Chicago that would have put Mitchell into the fold with the Blackhawks this season, the 2017 second-round pick returned to Denver University for his junior season, where he served as the Pioneers’ captain. After a spell of “will he or won’t he” from the Blackhawks’ fan community, everyone can breathe a little easier knowing that the coveted defenseman will be playing his professional hockey with the Blackhawks.

Ian Mitchell headlined the Chicago Blackhawks’ NCAA prospects this season. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Sun-Times)

An already accomplished NCAA prospect, Mitchell played with Team Canada this past December at the Spengler Cup in Switzerland. He tallied a goal and an assist in four games played, helping Canada win their 16th Spengler Cup.

In three seasons playing at Denver, Mitchell skated in 116 games and tallied 89 points. He was part of the 2018 NCAA Championship team as a freshman and was named to the NCHC All-Rookie Team in the 2017–18 season. Mitchell was named a NCHC Second Team All-Star as a sophomore in 2018–19 and a NCHC First Team All-Star this season as a junior. Mitchell was also named the Pioneers’ Team MVP this season with 32 points in 36 games played prior to the NCAA season being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At 5-foot-11 and tipping the scales around 180 pounds, Mitchell is not the most physically imposing defenseman, but he played heavy minutes over the last two seasons at Denver and all indications are that he will be able to play at the speed and physical level seen in the NHL. It is important to note that Mitchell will need time to adjust and more than likely is not the singular missing piece to the Blackhawks’ woes defensively. But, signs do point to Mitchell getting a crack at the NHL right away once he joins the organization, which is hopefully sooner rather than later.

The post Blackhawks, Ian Mitchell agree to terms on entry-level contract appeared first on The Rink.

In his final season with Red Deer, Hagel tallied 41 goals and 102 points to finish fourth in points in the WHL. Since then, the Alberta native has worked his way into the forefront of the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect system, as he is on pace for one of the most prolific rookie scoring seasons in Rockford IceHogs AHL franchise history.

Hagel’s stock on the rise with IceHogs

This should come as no surprise to those that know Hagel’s game. After finishing with 279 points in 259 WHL games, Hagel was expected to produce points at the professional level.

“Coming in last year for eight games and getting some touches in was good for me,” Hagel said about joining the IceHogs last season. “Got to come here and get used to the people and the players, so when I came back this year, I knew more of what to expect and that allows me to play the way I need to play.”

Hagel’s comfort level with the IceHogs has translated into a high-energy style of play that has been rewarded by head coach Derek King this season, affording Hagel meaningful ice time and opportunities on both the power play and the penalty kill.

For a rookie coming into the professional ranks, the transition from junior hockey can take a physical toll on a young player. But, with his style of play, Hagel has found it easier than most to make the jump to the next level.

“There’s a lot of new things you learn through recovery and nutrition and how important that is,” Hagel said. “As a rookie, you’re kind of on your own now, living on your own, so you have to figure things out now for yourself. We have a great leadership group on this team that is really on top of those things, so that has made my transition as easy as it can be.”

Only 3 #IceHogs have scored 20+ goals in their rookie season since 07-08:
Matthew Highmore (24)
Tyler Sikura (23)
Tanner Kero (20)
Brandon Hagel has 17 goals through 45 games this season. He is on pace for 28 goals, which would be the highest total since 2012-13 (30, Morin) #AHL https://t.co/3f8FPZ6vLa

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) February 5, 2020

What may be a surprise to IceHogs and Blackhawks fans alike are both Hagel’s work ethic and skills away from the puck.

His ability to put up points, as well as apply pressure defensively, kill penalties and play with an edge has allowed him to separate himself from the pack in the Blackhawks’ prospect system. His work this season did not go unnoticed by the parent club and Hagel received his first NHL recall in January.

“I don’t feel like my work away from the puck is underrated,” Hagel said. “People notice that and it’s continued to be a part of my game as a whole. My work ethic is the No. 1 thing that I have to focus on. Obviously, people notice it and I’m putting up numbers, too, so that always helps.”

While he did not get to make his full NHL debut during his first NHL recall, Hagel still took away a vote of confidence from the Blackhawks organization after getting the opportunity to learn from the pros in Chicago.

“It was nice just to even go up there and just get comfortable around the guys and staff,” Hagel said. “Everyone was so welcoming and that made it easier for me to do what I needed when I was up there, especially when it’s your first time up and you don’t really know what to expect. It’s just good to know what I have to do to get back there and hopefully get that opportunity again.”

Brandon Hagel skates against the San Antonio Rampage during the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of the San Antonio Rampage)

On a roster that began the season so inexperienced, and has endured a heavy amount of turnover due to injuries and recalls, Hagel has been one of the most consistent offensive factors for the IceHogs.

“There’s always going to be change,” Hagel said. “We’ve been through a lot of it this year and it’s just one of those things that you have to let it roll. Can’t think about it too much and stick to your game.”

Hagel and the IceHogs went through a difficult month of January, which snowballed from an equally difficult end of December. Going 3–14–2 from Dec. 21 to Feb. 1, the IceHogs have fallen from second in the AHL Central Division to sixth. While somehow keeping within striking distance of a Calder Cup Playoff spot through that stretch, the IceHogs have won back-to-back games heading into their next contest on Saturday and regained their confidence.

Rockford will need to continue to lean on Hagel’s offensive production, which has him third on the team with 25 points and leading the way with 17 goals this season. Hagel’s 17 tallies rank in a tie for fourth among rookies scorers and he is on pace for 28 goals this season, which would set the IceHogs’ AHL franchise record for rookies.

The post Brandon Hagel on historic rookie pace for IceHogs appeared first on The Rink.

Kirby Dach
Dach has been a nice addition to Chicago this season, but the plan for Dach has been obvious. Jeremy Colliton and staff were to take it easy with him early on in the season and allow him to adjust to playing professional hockey against men, a big step up from his days in Saskatoon.

The 19-year-old forward has found the back of the net seven times in 45 games so far this season to go along with his seven assists, all this while averaging 13:36 of ice time. He has only played 16 minutes or more a night 10 times this season, eight of those coming since Dec. 29.

At 6-foot-4 and 197 pounds, the Alberta native has shown an ability to use his size to protect the puck and find his way to the net against smaller defenseman. This skill will only get better as he matures and develops his professional game.

Dach has also looked solid in his own zone. Many rookies struggle defensively with structure and positioning, but Dach has made a smooth transition in this area. Chicago fans should take this as a huge positive when it comes to the rookie, as he seems to “get it between the ears” when he is on the ice.

As he gains more ice time and trust from the coaching staff, Dach is here to stay in Chicago’s top-six forward group for years to come.

Kirby Dach (@kdach77) goes top shelf via the backhand.

Oh, and it's a birthday goal. pic.twitter.com/JwIqDXXzp1

— NHL (@NHL) January 22, 2020

Alex Vlasic
With only three points in 21 games on the backend for Boston University this season, many would assume the 18-year-old is struggling for the Terriers. This could not be further from the truth. College hockey is quite the adjustment for freshman defensemen and Vlasic has shown he has the skills to play against tough competition.

The Wilmette, Illinois, native uses his size and solid hockey IQ to his advantage when on the ice. His ability to adjust is an excellent sign for Chicago fans. Stan Bowman needed to add size in last year’s draft and Vlasic stands 6-foot-6-and 199 pounds. Vlasic’s 19 blocks on the season places him fourth on the Terriers this season.

Expect the freshman to finish strong this season while being trusted in all situations for the Terriers.

Alex Vlasic makes a clean block and an interception to allow the shorthanded Terriers to clear the zone. Good penalty-killing by the freshman. #BUvsMC (via @CBSAllAccess) pic.twitter.com/Q6detLotn0

— Boston Hockey Blog (@BOShockeyblog) January 18, 2020

Michal Teply
Chicago’s third pick in the fourth round, Teply showed well in camp and found his way to the Winnipeg Ice in the Western Hockey League. With 15 goals in 34 games, the forward can light the lamp while finding his teammates with 22 assists. As a point-per-game player, Teply needs to work on his defensive-zone talents.

The Czech Republic native showed well again offensively during the World Junior Championships this season. His five assists in five games is a testament to his skills. With that being said, his -5 rating in as many games shows his difficulty keeping the puck out of his own net, even if the stat is flawed.

Teply scores his second of the night 7 seconds into the power play!

ICE take a 4-2 lead!

Michal Teply
Peyton Krebs
Isaac Johnson pic.twitter.com/DIL35n4u6b

— Winnipeg ICE (@WHLWpgICE) January 26, 2020

Antti Saarela
The Finnish forward had a rough showing at the World Junior Championships this season with zero points in seven games. He also finished with a -5 rating during the tournament. But, as an 18-year-old in the tournament, Chicago fans should not be worried.

The winger has shown the ability to play against men in the Liiga back home in Finland. The left-handed shooting forward has 10 points in 26 games for fourth place on Ilves. His struggles at the World Juniors looks more like an anomoly than the norm.

Antti Saarela started scoring for Ilves. He was not the most productive player at the WJC but founds ways to score in Liiga. Also had an assist later in the period. pic.twitter.com/5bXDqChcjs

— yp (@jrabane) January 18, 2020

Dominic Basse
A surprise pick by Bowman in the sixth round, Basse found himself playing for the Youngstown Phantoms in the United States Hockey League. Despite sporting a 3.77 goals against-average and a .881 save percentage, Basse’s stats should not be taken too seriously for now, as the USHL can be a difficult place to play for young goaltenders.

At 6-foot-6 and 197 pounds, Basse uses his positioning and athleticism to his advantage. In several viewings this season, Basse has made some highlight-reel saves while giving up a few “soft” goals from time to time, which, again, is common for a young goaltender in the USHL.

Basse is committed to Colorado College and will have options on his plans for next season over the summer.

@dominic_basse with the saves tonight! Let’s go Phantoms! https://t.co/T47b9DGR7S

— x – Youngstown Phantoms (@YtownPhantoms) November 30, 2019

Cole Moberg
Moberg finished out Chicago’s draft when he was selected in the seventh round. The Prince George Cougars assistant captain has 22 points in 39 games. The North Vancouver native has six goals in his third season with the Cougars.

Moberg has shown he can put points on the board while playing a solid defensive game in his own zone. As a seventh-round pick, the expectations are always low, but Moberg could surprise the Chicago brass.

https://twitter.com/JDylanBurke/status/1192305404086116352

The post Catching up with Chicago’s 2019 NHL Entry Draft selections appeared first on The Rink.