Rockford IceHogs exit interviews

The Rockford IceHogs put a cap on their season with their annual end-of-the-year exit interviews. After finishing the regular season in seventh place in the AHL Central Division, the IceHogs missed the Calder Cup Playoffs for the second time in the last three years. Paired with the Chicago Blackhawks missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second year in a row, this year marks the first time since becoming the AHL affiliate of the Blackhawks that Chicago and Rockford both missed the postseason.

There are a number of reasons why there is not playoff hockey being played in Rockford this season: coaching changes, injuries, recalls and assignments of key players, etc., but the IceHogs simply could not support their stellar team defense with enough scoring on a regular basis to get them over the hump and into the Calder Cup Playoffs. The league’s best goalie group of Collin Delia, Kevin Lankinen and Anton Forsberg were regularly let down by the league’s lowest scoring offense. Rockford finished the season with a 30–2–2 record when scoring three or more goals in a game, while on the flip side, lost 19 games this year when holding their opponents to two or fewer goals in a game.

But let’s not beat a dead horse any longer.

Interim head coach Derek King

IceHogs head coach Derek King did pretty much as well as he could have been asked after taking over the IceHogs from Jeremy Colliton in early November. King inherited the reigns of a 6–3–3 IceHogs team on Nov. 6 and finished the season with a 35–31–10 record, a 29–28–7 record with King as head coach. As of Wednesday, King’s status with the organization is still undecided, but one would figure he managed his position well enough to be given a chance to remove the interim tag from his coaching position.

Dylan Sikura (46 games played, 17 goals, 18 assists)

One of the brightest spots for the IceHogs this season was Dylan Sikura‘s emergence as a force to reckon with at the AHL level. While his well-hyped arrival in the Blackhawks organization has not lived up to the billing at the NHL level (11 points in 38 NHL games, no goals), Sikura tied Peter Holland for the highest points per game rate for the IceHogs this season at 0.76 points per game. In his first full professional year, Sikura finished third on the team in scoring, having played nearly 20 fewer games than the other Rockford scorers in the top five. He also finished eighth in rookie goal-scoring with 17 tallies on the year. Sikura becomes a restricted free agent this summer after completing a two-year deal with the Blackhawks organization.

Jordan Schroeder (62 games played, 19 goals, 26 assists)

Veteran forward Jordan Schroeder had one of his best AHL seasons of his career in 2018–19 with the IceHogs. Finishing with a career-high 45 points, Schroeder was consistently one of the most relied-upon players for the IceHogs. Paired with Holland down the stretch of the season, Schroeder found scoring chemistry with his newly acquired teammate and it showed. Over his final 25 games of the season, Schroeder tallied 21 points, including a five-game point streak and four multi-point games. Schroeder becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his one-year deal with the Blackhawks organization. 

Henri Jokiharju (30 games played, two goals, 15 assists)

While there is some debate whether or not Henri Jokiharju actually needed to play with the Rockford IceHogs this season, it showed that his time in the AHL made an impact on him on the ice. Jokiharju finished second on the team in scoring for defensemen (excluding Darren Raddysh), having played half as many games as the leading scorer in Lucas Carlsson. Jokiharju logged heavy minutes with the iceHogs and played in all situations. His 0.57 point per game pace was the highest on the team for defensemen and his plus-7 rating was tied with Sikura for the best rating on the roster. Jokiharju will be joining Finland’s World Championships camp this Summer. Jokiharju has two years remaining on his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Luke Johnson (53 games played, 18 goals, 13 assists) 

After starting the season with the Chicago Blackhawks, Luke Johnson joined the IceHogs in late November for the remainder of the season, save for two games in December. Johnson set new AHL career-highs in goals and points this season, playing all over the lineup. One of the more consistent players on the roster this season, Johnson’s physical aspect of his game seemed unchanged as his ability to score and generate scoring chances improved from last season. Johnson becomes a restricted free agent this summer after completing his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks organization.

Collin Delia (26 games played, 13–8–4, 2.48 goals against average, 0.922 save percentage)

Along with Sikura, another major bright spot for the IceHogs and Blackhawks this season was the continued improvement and development of goaltender Collin Delia. After joining the organization last season and ascending from the ECHL Indy Fuel to the Chicago Blackhawks in one season, Delia again played major roles for both the Blackhawks and IceHogs. Finishing this season with the second-best save percentage in the AHL, Delia, along with Lankinen and Forsberg, made up the best goaltending group in the league this season based on save percentage. Many have speculated that he projects to be the future No. 1 goaltender in the Blackhawks organization and if he continues his development trajectory, he will be. Delia signed a three-year, $3 million contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks this season, which kicks in next year.

Dennis Gilbert (63 games played, five goals, nine assists)

Winner of the team’s ‘Most Improved’ award this season, defenseman Dennis Gilbert truly came a long way from the beginning of the season. His confidence grew as the year progressed and his ice time increased. At the beginning of the year, Gilbert seemed to do little more than throw his weight around on the IceHogs’ blue line. But as they year went on, he began to open up more in the offensive zone while continuing to be a menace defensively. Gilbert ranked third on the active roster for scoring defensemen and led the team with seven fighting majors. Gilbert has two years remaining on his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Matthew Highmore (12 games played, three goals, six assists) 

The 2018–19 season could have been much different for the Rockford IceHogs had Matthew Highmore been healthy the full year. After tallying seven points over his first eight games of the year, Highmore was lost to a shoulder injury for nearly five months. He returned at the beginning of April, only to re-injure the shoulder and not finish the season on the ice for the IceHogs. Highmore had a lot of promise heading into this season, having set the AHL franchise rookie goal scoring record in 2017–18. Highmore probably would have been like Sikura was this season, up and down with the Blackhawks had he been healthy, but his games lost for the IceHogs truly had an impact across the board. Highmore has one year remaining on his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Anton Forsberg (32 games played, 15–15–2, 2.64 goals against average, 0.919 save percentage)

Much of what was said about Delia before can be repeated for Anton Forsberg this season. Consistently under-supported offensively, Forsberg took the majority of starts for the IceHogs this season after beginning the year as the backup in Chicago. His .919 save percentage finished as the fourth-best in the AHL this season. Forsberg becomes a restricted free agent this summer after completing a two-year contract with the Blackhawks he signed in the summer of 2017.

Victor Ejdsell (61 games played, 12 goals, 17 assists)

It is hard to label Victor Ejdsell‘s 2018–19 season a complete disappointment, but the expectations on him heading into the year certainly did not help his cause. Many, including myself, felt Ejdsell had a better than 50–50 chance of making the Chicago Blackhawks’ NHL roster coming out of training camp. He did not, nor did he receive a recall to the Blackhawks all season. Ejdsell dealt with injuries at times this year and only recently had found his stride within the offense. He still can show flashes of the scoring and playmaking ability that made him an intriguing prospect for the organization, but putting it all together consistently remains his issue. Ejdsell becomes a restricted free agent this summer after completing his two-year entry-level contract that he signed with the Nashville Predators in May of 2017.

Andrew Campbell (64 games played, three goals, five assists)

While there was little chance he would suit up for the Chicago Blackhawks this season, Andrew Campbell did everything asked and expected of him for the Rockford IceHogs this season. As he mentions in his exit interview, there is more to be measured that just numbers for his success this season. He was named a playing captain for the AHL Western Conference at the AHL All Star weekend this year, a testament to his longevity and leadership at the AHL level. Campbell served as a sort of assistant coach for the IceHogs this season, providing a veteran leadership presence for a young locker room. Campbell becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his one-year contract with the Blackhawks organization.

Alexandre Fortin (47 games played, six goals, six assists)

After a quick two-game stint with the IceHogs to begin the year, Alexandre Fortin joined the Blackhawks for a generous portion of the season, skating in 24 games at the NHL level, before rejoining the IceHogs for the remainder of the season. At multiple points over the two years that Fortin has spent with the Blackhawks and IceHogs organizations, he as shown the abilities to be a dangerous speedster who can create space and scoring chances with his feet. His downfall is his ability to actually finish those chances. Over the final 21 games of the season, Fortin tallied just three points. The abilities are there, but putting them together needs to be the next step for Fortin. He has one year remaining on his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Andreas Martinsen (38 games played, three goals, eight assists)

Another forward who played a good portion of his 2018–19 season with the Chicago Blackhawks before coming to the Rockford IceHogs, Andreas Martinsen was exactly as expected in his time with the IceHogs: a physical player who can now and again contribute offensively and provide a veteran presence in the locker room, same as his role last season with the IceHogs. The problem is that he has more than likely reached his ceiling with the Blackhawks and IceHogs organizations. Martinsen becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his one-year contract with the Blackhawks.

Tyler Sikura (50 games played, seven goals, 12 assists)

Similar to the season of Victor Ejdsell, Tyler Sikura‘s 2018–19 campaign was a let down. After playing his first full season in the AHL last year and finishing second in the team in goals and third in points in 2017–18, the elder Sikura failed to reach that productivity this season. Hampered by injuries for a while this year, Tyler was now and again the net-front presence he was last season, but did not reach his same ice time nor did he have the same opportunities on the power play that he had last year. Like Martinsen, Tyler has more than likely also reached his ceiling with the IceHogs organization. He becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his one-year contract with the Blackhawks.

William Pelletier (41 games played, seven goals, 10 assists)

Rockford’s 2018–19 ‘Man of the Year,’ William Pelletier bounced back from missing nearly half of the season due to injury to provide jump and energy into the lineup late in the season. Pelletier’s highlight of the year came from scoring back-to-back goals just 13 seconds apart against the San Antonio Rampage on April 2 to spark an epic comeback win. Unfortunately, those were his final two points of the season. Pelletier plays above his 5-foot-7 frame and can provide a bit of offense at the AHL level. He becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his one-year AHL contract with the Rockford IceHogs.

Terry Broadhurst (40 games played, four goals, eight assists)

Hampered by injuries this season, Terry Broadhurst‘s return to the IceHogs did not really live up to what both he or the team maybe would have hoped for. Broadhurst started hot with five points in his first eight games with the IceHogs, but tallied just seven more points over his other 32 games played this season. At 30 years old, it is unclear what the next step will be for Broadhurst in his playing career, as he becomes an unrestricted free agent after completing his one-year contract with the Rockford IceHogs.

Blake Hillman (54 games played, one goal, three assists)

In and out of the lineup for a portion of the season, Blake Hillman seemed to stall in his development in his first full professional season. After joining the organization late last season, Hillman looked like he might be in line for a shot at the NHL roster entering last summer. He never took that next step. Inconsistent with the puck on his stick, Hillman still has a lot of hockey ahead of him and could be brought back into the mix next season. He becomes a restricted free agent this summer after completing his two-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Nathan Noel (46 games played, two goals, four assists) 

It is hard to get a true read on Nathan Noel. He has dealt with injuries the last two seasons with the IceHogs, but when healthy, he looks the part of a decent depth AHL player. He mixes speed, physicality and a good touch with the puck on his stick at times, but cannot find it consistently. He has one year remaining on his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Josh McArdle (19 games played, one goal, two assists)

The first Rockford-area native to play for the IceHogs, Josh McArdle was a solid ECHL call-up for Rockford this season. He was able to step in during a thin stretch of the season for the iceHogs when they were dealing with injuries to the blue line. He played 33 games with the Indy Fuel in the ECHL this season, his first full professional season. McArdle becomes an unrestricted free agent after completing his one-year contract with the Rockford IceHogs.

Dmitry Osipov (Eight games played, zero goals, two assists)

A big-bodied defenseman like Dmitry Osipov was missing from the IceHogs roster for the majority of the season. While Gilbert and Campbell both weigh in at over 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Gilbert was the only true physical presence in the defensive group for Rockford. Osipov, coming in at 6-foot-4 and 234 pounds, provided a physical element that King wanted more of in his lineup. Osipov played in 66 games with the Indy Fuel in the ECHL this season, totaling 13 points. He becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing his contract with the Indy Fuel.

Reese Johnson (Six games played, zero goals, four assists)

A late-season signing from the Red Deer Rebels of the WHL, Reese Johnson stepped into the IceHogs’ lineup late in the season alongside his Red Deer teammate Brandon Hagel and made an immediate impact. Johnson showed flashes of playmaking skill and a high motor in his small sample of AHL play. He looks to be a part of the IceHogs’ lineup next season as he begins he three-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

Brandon Hagel (Eight games played, zero goals, one assist)

Speaking of Hagel, the WHL’s fourth-leading scorer this season joined the IceHogs late in the year after signing as a junior free agent in October. While he only tallied one assist in his eight games with Rockford, Hagel’s scoring ability should make him a key figure for the organization to keep an eye on going into next season. He begins a three-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks next season.

Philipp Kurashev (Three games played, zero points)

Another late-season addition for the IceHogs this year was QMJHL standout Philipp Kurashev. After leading the Quebec Remparts in scoring this season, Kurashev joined the IceHogs for their final three games of the season. While not tallying a point in those three games, Kurashev’s 125 points over the last two seasons with Quebec, paired with him showcasing his abilities at the World Juniors this past January, make him an exciting prospect for the Blackhawks and IceHogs heading into the summer. He begins a three-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks next season.

The IceHogs’ 20th anniversary season did not end with another run at the Calder Cup, but it was far from unsuccessful.

https://twitter.com/goicehogs/status/1118597418000560128

For the depth of the Chicago Blackhawks organization, the IceHogs have plenty of players to be excited about for the future and be encouraged for how many of them are progressing in their careers.

What’s next?

A giant thank goes out to the great media and communications staff with the Rockford IceHogs for providing all the videos of the exit interviews.

The Calder Cup Playoffs begin this week, but not for the IceHogs. Stay tuned to The-Rink for more news and analysis on the Chicago Blackhawks organization, top to bottom, as the spring and summer roll along.

The post Rockford IceHogs 2018–19 season exit interviews appeared first on The Rink.

Milwaukee Admirals def. Rockford IceHogs, 4–2

The IceHogs came into Wednesday’s game, trying to shake off the memory of the 8–2 drubbing that the Admirals put on them on Saturday night prior. Anton Forsberg got the start in net for Rockford, opposite Troy Grosenick for Milwaukee.

The IceHogs came out of the gate with way more energy and pop in their game on Wednesday night than they did on either Friday or Saturday. Rockford was rewarded for their efforts just beyond the mid-way point in the first period when Jordan Schroeder netted his 19th goal of the season. In his first game back from injury, Jacob Nilsson setup Schroeder from behind the Admirals net for the 1–0 goal. Schroeder with 43 points this season is now one point away from tying his single-season career high in the AHL. The Rockford lead would only last two and a half minutes as the Admirals tied it at 1–1 with just over five minutes remaining in the period.

It would remain 1–1 into the second period until Milwaukee took the lead on a Justin Kirkland goal just over seven minutes into the middle frame. Kirkland wrapped around the IceHogs net and slammed home his eighth goal of the season to give the Admirals a 2–1 lead, which they held into the third period.

In the third period, the IceHogs regained momentum and turned a Milwaukee turnover into a game-tying goal. Rookie defenseman Chad Krys, making his professional debut, gathered a loose puck into the Admirals zone and garnered the attention of two Milwaukee defenders. With the middle of the ice open, Krys threw a no-look drop pass to Anthony Louis and he went high, stick-side to beat Grosenick for the 2–2 goal. The goal marked Krys’ first professional point and Louis’ 12th goal of the season. It was also just the second goal scored for Louis since January 12, and just his sixth point since that same date. Louis had 25 points in the first 39 games of the season.

Rockford IceHogs forward Anthony Louis celebrates a goal against the Milwaukee Admirals. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Unfortunately for the IceHogs again, their momentum swing would be short-lived as the Admirals re-took the lead on an Austin Watson tip goal just three minutes later. After having killed-off a five-on-three Milwaukee powerplay, the IceHogs fell victim to a bad-luck bounce off of Forsberg and Watson was there to bang in the loose puck. Watson, playing on a conditioning loan, scored his first AHL goal since October 2016 and followed it up later in the period with an empty-net tally to seal the 4–2 win for Milwaukee.

Anton Forsberg made 33 saves on 36 shots in the loss, which was his fourth loss in his last six starts. Forsberg’s record falls to 14–13–2 on the season with a 2.58 GAA and a 0.922 save percentage. Rockford was able to kill all four Milwaukee powerplays, but came up empty on three powerplay chances themselves. Rockford holds the league-worst powerplay with a 14.4 percent success-rate, while having the AHL’s 11th ranked penalty-kill with a 82.3 percent kill-rate.

Calder Cup Playoff Race

Although the IceHogs fell in regulation to the Admirals, as well as the Stars topping the Moose in regulation, it remains just a one-point difference between the four teams in the AHL Central Division in the fourth through seventh spots.

1. Chicago Wolves (67 GP) – 40–19–8 – 88 pts
2. Grand Rapids Griffins (57 GP) – 38–19–10 – 86 pts
3. Iowa Wild (68 GP) – 34–22–12 – 80 pts
4. Milwaukee Admirals (68 GP) – 29–24–15 – 73 pts
5. Texas Stars (69 GP) – 33–29–7 – 73 pts
6. Manitoba Moose (67 GP) – 33–28–6 – 72 pts
7. Rockford IceHogs (68 GP) – 31–27–10 – 72 pts
8. San Antonio Rampage (68 GP) – 27–34–7 – 61 pts

The IceHogs hold games in hand currently over the Stars, with all eight of their final games coming against Central Division opponents to close the season.

Roster Moves

Following the loss on Wednesday, the IceHogs made a trio of moves that will benefit their ECHL affiliate Indy Fuel. Defensemen Josh McArdle and Dmitry Osipov, along with forward Spencer Watson were all sent down to the ECHL

Rockford IceHogs forward Josh McArdle celebrates a goal against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

McArdle, having the most experience of the three in the AHL this season, has played in 19 games for the IceHogs with a goal and two assists.

Osipov, who joined the team two weeks ago, played in four games with one assist.

Watson has played in 10 games for the IceHogs, scoring one goal and two assists of his own.

All three will join the Fuel as they push for the Kelly Cup Playoffs, sitting in fifth-place in the ECHL Central Division with 68 points, four behind the Kalamazoo Wings.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action this weekend as they continue their current homestand. On Saturday, the IceHogs host the Grand Rapids Griffins for a 6 p.m. CT puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center. Rockford holds a 6–3–0 record this season over the Griffins.

Following Saturday night’s game, the IceHogs turn around and host the Chicago Wolves for the final time this season. Puck drop on Sunday is set for 4pm CT at the BMO Harris Bank Center as this season’s edition of the Illinois Lottery Cup Rivalry comes to a close. The IceHogs lead the season series over the Wolves with a 6–4–1 record.

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Rockford IceHogs def. Chicago Wolves, 2-1 (SO)

The IceHogs came into Wednesday night’s contest with a slim one-point lead over the Texas Stars for fourth-place in the Central Division. In the AHL, the top four teams in each Division make the Calder Cup Playoffs, so the race in the Central Division has come down to two spots: a race between the top three teams for first-place and a race between the other five teams for fourth-place. Rockford “leads” the fourth-place race currently and the win over Chicago helped keep their one-point lead alive for another night.

Rockford IceHogs forward Victor Ejdsell celebrates a goal against the Chicago Wolves. Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

The IceHogs and Wolves were scoreless through the first period, but it took just under four minutes in the second period for Victor Ejdsell to breakthrough and get the game’s first goal. Alexandre Fortin put a shot on net that deflected off a Wolves defender and Ejdsell was able to re-direct it on net and get by Oscar Dansk. The goal was Ejdsell’s 10th of the season and gave the IceHogs a 1-0 lead.

Rockford IceHogs forward Jordan Schroeder celebrates with his teammates after scoring a shootout goal against the Chicago Wolves. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

The lead would last almost to the end of the period, but with just under two minutes to go in the middle frame, the Wolves were able to get a breakaway chance on a Rockford powerplay and Cage Quinney found the back of the net. Quinney’s 17th of the season tied the game at 1-1 heading into the third period.

Neither team was able to break the 1-1 tie in the third period, thanks to some stellar goaltending on both ends of the ice from Delia and Dansk. The game would head to overtime, and while Rockford had at least three chances in the extra frame to put the game away, including a Henri Jokiharju shot off the post and a failed Dennis Gilbert breakaway chance, they would come up empty and the game would head to the shootout.

In the shootout, the Wolves and IceHogs were both shut down in the first and second rounds with Dansk and Delia making two saves a piece. It wasn’t until Jordan Schroeder‘s turn in the top of the third round that a breakthrough was made as he beat Dansk with a patient backhand move. It was down to Delia against T.J. Tynan with the game on the line and Delia was able to make a five-hole save to seal the win for Rockford.

Mood:
COLLIN DELIA VICTORY STRUT#IceHogs top #Wolves in the shootout!#RFDvsCHI #AHL#HockeyTwitter pic.twitter.com/M5SmCK8HNs

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) March 21, 2019

Delia celebrated with a McMahon/McGregor style strut and it was well-deserved after his 32-save performance against the Wolves. With the win, the IceHogs are riding a four-game win streak and keep hold of the fourth spot in the Central Division. Delia improved his record to 10-6-4 with a league-leading (min. 20 GP) 0.932 save-percentage and a 2.26 GAA which ranks second in the AHL (again, min. 20 GP).

It a hotly contested, playoff-like rivalry game against the Wolves, the IceHogs were able to kill all six powerplays against them, but as 0-for-5 on their own powerplay. Rockford ranks eighth in the league on the penalty-kill with an 82.6% kill-rate.

Calder Cup Playoff Race

With the shootout win over the Wolves, the IceHogs kept hold of the fourth spot in the Central Division with 72 points this season. The Texas Stars defeated the Grand Rapids Griffins on Wednesday night, but remain one point behind Rockford in fifth-place.

1. Chicago Wolves (64 GP) – 37-19-8, 82 pts
2. Grand Rapids Griffins (64 GP) – 35-19-10, 80 pts
3. Iowa Wild (65 GP) – 34-19-12, 80 pts
4. Rockford IceHogs (65 GP) – 31-24-10, 72 pts
5. Texas Stars (66 GP) – 32-27-7, 71 pts
6. Manitoba Moose (64 GP) – 31-27-6, 68 pts
7. Milwaukee Admirals (65 GP) – 26-24-15, 67 pts
8. San Antonio Rampage (65 GP) – 27-31-7, 61 pts

Rockford’s final 11 games this season will all be against Central Division opponents, including three straight games against the Milwaukee Admirals coming up in their next three games.

Roster Updates

Late Wednesday night, the IceHogs made an addition to their roster by signing 2014 Blackhawks draft pick Fredrik Olofsson. Drafted in the fourth round by Chicago in 2014, Olofsson played the last four seasons at Nebraska-Omaha, skating in 137 games and tallying 95 points (35 G, 60 A) in his NCAA career. Olofsson set a career-high in points with 34 as a Senior this year.

Blackhawks forward prospect Fredrik Olofsson of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. (Courtesy: Omaha Athletics)

Olofsson also has spent time playing for Team Sweden in his junior ranks, skating with Sweden in the 2016 World Junior Championships and tallying three points in seven games. He joins the IceHogs on a PTO deal and could factor into the Rockford lineup as the Calder Cup Playoff push continues.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Friday as they open a three-game set against the Milwaukee Admirals that will stretch over six days until Wednesday, March 27. On Friday, the IceHogs travel North to Milwaukee for a 7pm CT puck drop at the Panther Arena. Following Friday night’s contest, the IceHogs turn around and host the Admirals for a 6pm CT puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center. Finally, on Wednesday March 27, the IceHogs again host the Admirals for a 7pm CT puck drop in Rockford. This season, Rockford holds a 4-2-1 record over Milwaukee with all four IceHogs wins decided by one goal.

The post IceHogs, Delia Stop Wolves In Shootout Win appeared first on The Rink.

Rockford IceHogs def. Grand Rapids Griffins, 5-4 (OT)

The Rockford IceHogs, playing their only game within an 11-day span, hosted the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday night. With the Griffins coming into the game tied for the Central Division lead with the Chicago Wolves, and the IceHogs holding a two-point cushion over the Texas Stars for the fourth and final Calder Cup Playoff spot in the Central, both teams had a ton on the line as far as the Divisional battle goes.

With Collin Delia getting his second-straight start in net since returning to the IceHogs at the end of February, Rockford was able to get on the board early and often.

After giving Delia zero goals of support in his return game against the Wolves, Rockford took a 1-0 lead at the mid-way point of the opening period thanks to a Jordan Schroeder powerplay goal. Just over four minutes later, it would be a 2-0 IceHogs lead after Spencer Watson tipped a shot from Lucas Carlsson. Watson’s first goal with the IceHogs and first goal in the AHL this season gave Rockford a comfortable lead heading toward the final moments of the first period. That was until Dennis Gilbert was able to find a rebound and score his second goal of the season with under two seconds left in the period to give the IceHogs a 3-0 lead after 20 minutes of play.

Things would begin to get dicey for the IceHogs from then on as the Griffins would net two goals in the second period from Turner Elson and Wade Megan to cut the Rockford lead to 3-2 heading into the third period of action. Less than a minute into the final frame, the Griffins tied the game thanks to a powerplay goal from Matt Puempel, his 21st goal of the year. Things began to turn back in the IceHogs’ favor in the third period when Jordan Schroeder potted his second goal of the game with just over six minutes to go in the contest. Schroeder’s 17th goal of the season gave Rockford a 4-3 lead, but it would be a second goal from Puempel in the period to tie it up at 4-4. The 22nd goal of the season for Puempel would be enough for the Griffins to force overtime.

Rockford IceHogs forward Jordan Schroeder (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

With both teams securing one point on the night, the all-important overtime point was up for grabs. Delia was able to stop both shots he faced in the four-plus minutes of extra time, and the newly acquired Peter Holland was able to play hero for the IceHogs. Schroeder found an open Holland in the slot from behind the net and he was able to get the game-winner past Harri Sateri with just 36 seconds left in the overtime period for the 5-4 win.

Collin Delia made 24 saves on 28 shots faced to earn his first win since returning to the IceHogs. His record on the season moves to 8-6-4 with a 2.36 GAA and a 0.929 save-percentage.

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Collin Delia makes a save against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Jordan Schroeder tallied two goals and an assist on the night for his first three-point game of the season and first since March 16, 2018 with the Cleveland Monsters. Schroeder’s 17 goals this season is his highest total since his 2011-12 season with the Chicago Wolves, where he netted 21 goals in 76 games. Since February 1st, Schroeder has 14 points in 13 games.

Peter Holland played the hero for the IceHogs in overtime, scoring his second goal with the club since joining the team on February 18. Holland has four points in five games with the IceHogs, 53 points in 57 games this season in total, tied for sixth in the AHL in scoring.

Finally, Luke Johnson, Lucas Carlsson, and Henri Jokiharju all tallied two assists apiece for the IceHogs in the overtime win. Jokiharju has 12 points in his 13 games with the IceHogs this season. Lucas Carlsson leads all IceHogs defenders in points with 28 points in 55 games this season, tied for fourth in the AHL for rookie defenders.

Calder Cup Playoff Push

Following Friday night’s win, the IceHogs remain in fourth-place in the AHL Central Division, two points clear of the Texas Stars in fifth-place. Rockford remains the leader in the Division in games played to this point this season.

1. Chicago Wolves (56 GP) – 33-17-6, 72 pts
2. Grand Rapids Griffins (57 GP) – 31-17-9, 71 pts
3. Iowa Wild (57 GP) – 29-17-11, 69 pts
4. Rockford IceHogs (59 GP) – 27-23-9, 63 pts
5. Texas Stars (57 GP) – 27-23-7, 61 pts
6. Milwaukee Admirals (58 GP) – 24-22-12, 60 pts
7. Manitoba Moose (57 GP) – 27-25-5, 59 pts
8. San Antonio Rampage (57 GP) – 25-26-6, 56 pts

Rockford holds the fourth and final Divisional spot in the Calder Cup Playoff picture, with 16 of their final 17 games to close the year coming against Central Division opponents.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Saturday, March 9 as they travel to Manitoba to take on the Moose. Rockford will take a full week off between games, allowing for the other Central Division teams to catch up and surpass them in the games played department. After a week off, the IceHogs take on the Moose in back-to-back weekend games in Manitoba on March 9 and 10. Saturday’s puck drop is set for 6pm CT, while Sunday’s puck drop is set for 2pm CT at Bell MTS Place. Rockford holds a 1-0-1 record against the Moose this season.

The post IceHogs Top Griffins In Overtime Thriller appeared first on The Rink.

IceHogs Hold Position In Calder Cup Playoff Push

The Rockford IceHogs are doing it again. Making a push in the final two and a half months to make the Calder Cup Playoffs was the path to success last season for the IceHogs on their way to the Western Conference Finals, and this season they are looking to repeat that same path.

A hot run from Collin Delia in net, a consistent power-play threat, and a trio of point-producers in Cody Franson, Chris DiDomenico, and Adam Clendening propelled the 2017-18 IceHogs into the postseason and this season may have a number of players ready to fill similar roles.

Rockford was able to overcome a 4-0 deficit on Saturday against the Iowa Wild and come out on top in a 5-4 shootout win. Multi-point nights coming from Jordan Schroeder (2G), Henri Jokiharju (2A), Jacob Nilsson (2A), and Luke Johnson (G, A) led the way for the IceHogs behind a 33-save effort from Kevin Lankinen. The shootout winner was provided by Victor Ejdsell, who also had an assist in the game.

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Kevin Lankinen makes a save. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Following Saturday night’s come from behind win, the IceHogs again turned to Lankinen in net and again he was able to deliver a goaltending performance good enough to get the IceHogs another win. With multi-point night’s from Jordan Schroeder (G, A), Andrew Campbell (2A), Luke Johnson (G, A), and William Pelletier (G, A) the IceHogs took a 5-2 win over the San Antonio Rampage and took hold of fourth-place in the AHL Central Division with 58 points.

Rockford has tallied at least one power-play goal in five of their last six games and have six power-play goals over that six-game span.

Rockford came out of the weekend with a two-point edge over the Milwaukee Admirals in fifth-place and trailing the Chicago Wolves by four points for third-place. A total of ten points separate the second-place Iowa Wild (63) from the tied for last place Manitoba Moose and San Antonio Rampage (53) in the Central Division.

With his pair of wins over the weekend, Kevin Lankinen improved his record to 7-6-3 on the season, with a 2.47 GAA and a 0.911 save-percentage. Lankinen has won five of his last six starts for the IceHogs. He ranks ninth in the AHL in GAA of goalies to play at least 15 games this season, and the IceHogs’ team save-percentage of 0.917 is the highest in the Central Division.

Jokiharju, Schroeder Powering IceHogs Offense

Rockford holds a 6-2-0 record so far in the month of February, coming out of a 4-6-1 month of January. Over the last 19 games since the calendar turned to 2019, leading the IceHogs in scoring is Jordan Schroeder with 14 points in that span. Just in the month of February, Schroeder leads the IceHogs with nine points in eight games. Leading Rockford in scoring with 33 points in 45 games this season, Schroeder has been a consistent offensive producer on a team that has lacked in goal-scoring for most of the season.

The IceHogs are tied with the Manitoba Moose for the fewest goals scored this season (133) but the gap between the IceHogs inept offensive numbers has closed over the last few weeks. Giving the teams goaltenders a chance is key for Rockford this season as the team holds a 22-2-2 record this season when scoring at least three goals as opposed to a 3-19-6 record in games scoring two or fewer goals.

Rockford IceHogs forward Jordan Schroeder takes a shot against the Iowa Wild. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Helping Schroeder with the offensive load since his assignment to the IceHogs is defenseman Henri Jokiharju. The rookie has been a consistent offensive threat since joining the IceHogs at the beginning of February. In eight games this season, Jokiharju has seven points, including five points over his last three games. Jokiharju’s 0.88 points per game pace is currently the highest on the team among active players, leading Schroeder (0.73) and Luke Johnson (0.67).

Rockford IceHogs defenseman Henri Jokiharju (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Also among the leaders for the IceHogs offensively continue to be Jacob Nilsson (seven points in last five games) and Luke Johnson (seven points in last seven games) who both are coming into their own as the season moves into the latter-half of the schedule.

While keeping pucks out of the net has not been an issue for the IceHogs this season, ranking a respectable tenth in fewest goals allowed (150), Rockford is going to need to call upon their early season leaders to get back to their forms of the first few weeks of the season.

A player like Anthony Louis (one point in last eight games) still ranks among the top five of the team in scoring, but has seen his scoring pace fall off in the last few weeks. If Louis can find his touch again and the rest of the roster continues to chip in, the IceHogs will continue to push Milwaukee, Chicago, and the rest of the Central Division as the Calder Cup Playoffs loom around the corner.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Wednesday as they take on the Grand Rapids Griffins. The first of three road games in-a-row for the IceHogs after a 6-game homestand, the IceHogs hold a 3-3-0 record against the Griffins this season. Puck drop for Wednesday night’s contest is set for 6pm CT at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids.

The post IceHogs Hold Onto Playoff Spot With Weekend Wins appeared first on The Rink.

Grading The Rockford IceHogs: Forwards

This season has been a frustrating one for the IceHogs offensively. They rank last in the league in goals per game (2.28) and total goals scored (105) and have a -25 goal differential. Much different from last season, where the IceHogs ranked 7th in total goals (239) and averaged 3.14 goals per game. Rockford lost one of their major contributors offensively early this season when Matthew Highmore went down with a shoulder injury in November. Pairing that with a few players under-achieving based on their performances last season and the IceHogs find themselves in their current position, lacking consistent offense.

Incompletes (Less than 15 AHL games played)

• William Pelletier (14 GP, 2 G, 4 A, +3, 12 PIM)
  • Pelletier started the season on the sidelines, out with an upper-body injury. Since joining the IceHogs regular lineup, he has provided a bit of an energy spark, with the ability to provide some offense. Pelletier’s speed and ability to play above his size are his best assets.
• Andreas Martinsen (9 GP, 0 G, 3 A, +/-0, 8 PIM)
  • After beginning the season with the Chicago Blackhawks, Martinsen made his AHL debut with the IceHogs earlier in January. Since joining Rockford, Martinsen has provided a physicality element that the IceHogs hadn’t had in the first half of the season. He’ll continue to be a large-body forward that can cause troubles around the net.

Matthew Highmore of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

• Matthew Highmore (8 GP, 3 G, 4 A, +2, 6 PIM)
  • As mentioned before, Highmore was lost from the IceHogs lineup in November due to a shoulder injury. Surgery will potentially keep him away from the ice for the rest of the regular season. If Highmore can return later this season and jump back into the lineup, the IceHogs hopefully will not be far from the playoffs so Highmore could be the extra offensive push they need.
• Justin Auger
• Brett Welychka
• Hunter Fejes
• Radovan Bondra
• Connor Moynihan

IceHogs Forwards Report Cards

• Anthony Louis (46 GP, 10 G, 17 A, -3, 14 PIM)
  • Leading the IceHogs in scoring, Louis has done everything asked of him from the IceHogs as far as point-production goes. The under-sized winger is a key figure on the powerplay, but a powerplay that ranks 30th in the AHL (15.1%). Grade: B
• Jacob Nilsson (43 GP, 11 G, 9 A, -6, 18 PIM)
  • For his first season playing professionally in North America, Nilsson has been pretty much as advertised for the IceHogs. Playing in the top-six forwards group and on both the powerplay and penalty-kill, Nilsson plays a well-rounded game for the AHL level, but an extra-gear in his game would be welcomed for Rockford. Grade: B-
• Alexandre Fortin (21 GP, 2 G, 4 A, +4, 4 PIM)
  • Beginning the season with the Chicago Blackhawks, Fortin was supposed to be a speed and energy spark at the NHL level. His finishing ability wasn’t up to the big league standards and his assignment to Rockford this season has seen the same results. Fortin is fast and always a danger on breakouts, but his finishing ability still leaves much to be wanted. Grade: C

Dylan Sikura of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

• Dylan Sikura (35 GP, 12 G, 14 A, +4, 6 PIM)
  • One of the few bright spots with the IceHogs offensive attack, Sikura has just about lived up to his billing coming into his first full season playing professionally. While his role with the Blackhawks was thought to be more of a top-nine scoring option, his abilities are still rounding out in the AHL. His speed and scoring touch have helped push Rockford but he needs more help. Grade: B+
• Luke Johnson (25 GP, 7 G, 7 A, -8, 18 PIM)
  • Johnson started the season as a bottom-six option for the Blackhawks as former head coach Joel Quenneville was a fan of his game. Since being assigned back to the IceHogs, Johnson has shown what got him to the NHL in the first place, in bursts. Physical, hard-working, and with ability to score, Johnson’s filled his role with Rockford well, but development beyond last year seems marginal. Grade: C+
• Matheson Iacopelli (27 GP, 2 G, 2 A, -7, 19 PIM)
  • Once thought to be on the cusp of being a top-nine forward option for the Blackhawks just less than two years ago, Iacopelli has yet to find his consistent role at the AHL level. Having spent quick stints with the Indy Fuel both last season and this season, Iacopelli may be falling out of favor with the Blackhawks organization in their long-term plans. Grade: C-
• Jordan Schroeder (37 GP, 10 G, 14 A, -8, 8 PIM)
  • One of the more consistent offensive options the IceHogs have been able to call on this season, Schroeder has played his role as the veteran scorer perfectly. Holding the highest point-per-game rate of regular skaters this season, Schroeder may not be getting the call from the Blackhawks this season, but he continues to show why he has never had trouble scoring at the AHL level. Grade: B

Jordan Schroeder of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

• Nick Moutrey (29 GP, 0 G, 1 A, -5, 18 PIM)
  • Size and aggressive play are the keys to Moutrey’s game for the IceHogs. Not looked at as a scoring option, head coach Derek King is a fan of using Moutrey in an energy role to help spark his teammates and be a pain to play against. But for a team that is at the bottom of production in the AHL, Moutrey will need to chip in a point here and there. Grade: C-
• Nathan Noel (38 GP, 2 G, 4 A, -5, 47 PIM)
  • While Noel plays his role well for the IceHogs, his development beyond a pesky bottom-six forward hasn’t been there this season. While he plays with an edge, Noel is not the player you want to rely on to be a physical presence for your team. A bit more offensive production could show his skill-set is rounding out and make him more of a key figure for the IceHogs. Grade: C
• Victor Ejdsell (35 GP, 6 G, 11 A, -5, 16 PIM)
  • It’s hard to call Ejdsell the most disappointing player on the IceHogs this season, given that his production is in the top-third of the team. When he made his debut with the IceHogs and Blackhawks last season, it appeared Ejdsell was next to be a fixture in Chicago’s forwards group. If Ejdsell could find his scoring touch on a more consistent basis, he could play his way back into consideration in Chicago and get Rockford back into the Calder Cup Playoff push. Grade: C

Victor Ejdsell of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

• Terry Broadhurst (32 GP, 4 G, 5 A, -9, 12 PIM)
  • Broadhurst, much like Schroeder, was brought into the Rockford organization to provide a veteran presence to a young locker room and hopefully chip in offensively to push the team forward. While his locker room presence is regularly praised, his offensive output hasn’t been up to the level he has shown in the past. If he could regain a bit of that regular production, the Illinois native could help the IceHogs from a bottom-six perspective. Grade: C-
• Henrik Samuelsson (40 GP, 2 G, 5 A, -8, 33 PIM)
  • Another player for Rockford that plays a physical game first, then focuses on offensive production, Samuelsson has shown in the past that he has more to offer. Scoring at nearly a half-point per game pace last season, he has yet to find that kind of pace this season. If Samuelsson could chip in an extra bit, the IceHogs could find themselves fighting out of the Divisional cellar. Grade: C-
• Graham Knott (44 GP, 3 G, 7 A, -6, 20 PIM)
  • Knott has yet to show why the Chicago Blackhawks used their 2015 second-round draft pick on him in over a year and a half of AHL playing time. His skating and willingness to play physically has improved from last season to this season, but if there is more to see from Knott, he has yet to tap into it. On the positive side, he has already topped last season’s point total (9). Grade: C-
• Tyler Sikura (33 GP, 6 G, 8 A, +2, 14 PIM)
  • Similar to the situation that Ejdsell is in from last season to this season, the elder Sikura has yet to find the form that made him third on the IceHogs last season in scoring. While Tyler’s game remains the same, playing as a net-front presence and being able to play on both the powerplay and penalty-kill, he has not found the same scoring touch that he had last season. Battling injuries, Sikura can hopefully return to the regular Rockford lineup and help improve the goal-scoring around the net. Grade: C+

While the IceHogs haven’t been playing too far below average for what their roster makeup currently consists of, it’s clear why the offensive production from the forwards group has been low. Missing from the equation this season is a legitimate AHL-level finisher for players like Louis, Schroeder, and Sikura to feed pucks to.

The potential for late-season reinforcements to arrive in Rockford is there, it hopefully will not be something that the IceHogs rely on. If they can find a way to increase production from within, they will have a shot at yet again making a late-season Calder Cup Playoff push. If not, it will be a short Spring at the BMO Harris Bank Center.

Up next on Wednesday we will give out grades for the Rockford IceHogs Defenseman group.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs return to action following the AHL All-Star break on Friday, February 1 as they host the Chicago Wolves in another installment of the Illinois Lottery Cup Rivalry this season. Following Friday night’s game in Rockford, the IceHogs travel North to Milwaukee to take on the Admirals on Saturday night.

Puck drop on Friday at the BMO Harris Bank Center is scheduled for 7pm CT. The IceHogs hold a 4-3-1 record against the Wolves this season. On Saturday night, puck drop is scheduled for 7pm CT at the UW-Panther Arena in Milwaukee. The IceHogs hold a 3-2-1 record against the Admirals this season.

The post Rockford IceHogs Mid-Term Grades: Forwards appeared first on The Rink.

IceHogs Take Wins Over Manitoba, Iowa Into AHL All-Star Break

Heading into the weekend, the Rockford IceHogs were looking at a very real possibility of falling into dead last in the AHL Central Division, had they not earned points against either the Manitoba Moose or the Iowa Wild. In back-to-back home games, the IceHogs were able to secure four points out of a possible four, getting a shootout win over the Moose on Friday and a win in regulation over the Wild on Saturday night.

With those results, the IceHogs headed into the AHL All-Star Weekend sitting tied in sixth-place in the Central Division (19-19-8, 46 points) with the San Antonio Rampage based on points, but are tied for the bottom spot in the Division with the Manitoba Moose, based on point-percentage.

Rockford IceHogs def. Manitoba Moose, 4-3 (SO)

Kevin Lankinen would get the start on Friday night for the IceHogs against the Manitoba Moose. Lankinen had recorded just one win for the IceHogs since the Christmas Holiday break, going 1-3-2 over that stretch. Rockford found themselves trailing at the end of the first period thanks to a Moose powerplay goal from former IceHogs forward Marko Dano. His fifth goal of the year put Manitoba ahead 1-0 after the opening 20 minutes.

Rockford would be in a bigger hole in the second period as the Moose took a 2-0 lead just under three minutes into the second period thanks to Sami Niku‘s third goal of the season. Just past the mid-way point of the period, Luke Johnson would tally his sixth goal of the season, coming on the powerplay, to cut the Manitoba lead in half. But he one-goal deficit wouldn’t last long for the IceHogs as the Moose re-took a two-goal lead with less than five minutes to play in the middle frame after Michael Spacek‘s sixth goal of the season, the second Manitoba powerplay goal of the night.

Needing to find a big comeback in the third period, the IceHogs pushed to the final two minutes of the third period before finding a breakthrough goal. With two minutes to play, Dylan Sikura buried his team-leading 12th goal of the season to cut the Manitoba lead to 3-2. Then in dramatic fashion with Lankinen pulled, the IceHogs pulled even at 3-3 thanks to a Jordan Schroeder slap-shot with just seven seconds remaining in regulation. Schroeder’s 10th of the season sent the IceHogs and Moose to overtime, securing at least a point for both teams.

There would be no breakthrough for either team in the extra three-on-three period, so it would have to go to the shootout. Both Lucas Carlsson and Jordan Schroeder would convert their chances against Eric Comrie, and Lankinen shut the door on Logan Shaw and Seth Griffith to seal a comeback 4-3 win for the IceHogs in the shootout. Lankinen finished the game with 25 saves on 28 shots, improving his season record to 3-5-3, with a 2.50 GAA, and a 0.907 save-percentage.

Rockford IceHogs def. Iowa Wild, 3-1

Following Friday night’s comeback win, the IceHogs turned around and hosted the Iowa Wild on Saturday night in Rockford. On Rockford’s annual Autism Awareness Night, the IceHogs wore special uniforms and had a special night in store for the home crowd.

Anton Forsberg got the start for the IceHogs, coming into the game dropping six of his last seven starts in regulation since the Christmas Holiday break. One thing that Forsberg was able to take advantage of on Saturday night was the IceHogs’ discipline, taking just two penalties on the night and allowing the Wild just one powerplay, which the IceHogs were able to kill-off.

After a scoreless first period, the IceHogs would get on the board first, thanks to a powerplay goal from Jacob Nilsson on Rockford’s only powerplay opportunity of the night. Nilsson’s 11th goal of the year gave the IceHogs the lead early in the second period, but it would be Iowa’s Louie Belpedio scoring his fourth goal of the season with just 20 seconds left in the period that would force a 1-1 tie game into the third period.

Rockford responded early in the third period to break the 1-1 tie game thanks to Terry Broadhurst‘s fourth goal of the season. Broadhurst, who just broke-out of a 23-game goalless streak, now has goals in two of his last three games and is on a three-game points streak. Rockford held their 2-1 lead through the rest of the period, and with the Iowa net open late in the game, Luke Johnson netted his seventh goal of the season to make it a 3-1 final score.

Anton Forsberg ended the night with 33 saves on 34 shots faced, improving his record this season to 9-9-1, with a 2.68 GAA and a 0.917 save-percentage. Forsberg also tallied his first assist of the season, getting a secondary credit on the Johnson empty-net goal, his fourth AHL point of his career.

Following the weekend’s action, the IceHogs special teams took a bit of a hit in the overall rankings as the powerplay dropped to 15.1-percent on the season. Rockford ranks 30th in the AHL on the man-advantage this season, but ranks 19th in powerplay opportunities with 179. On the penalty-kill, the IceHogs are doing much better with an 82.8-percent kill-rate, ranking them 8th in the AHL. The IceHogs rank 14th in the AHL with 180 times short-handed this season.

At the AHL All-Star Break, Anthony Louis leads the IceHogs in points with 27 (10 G, 17 A), followed by Dylan Sikura with 26 points (12 G, 14 A), and Jordan Schroeder with 24 points (10 G, 14 A) this season.

Andrew Campbell Shines At AHL All-Star Skills Competition

Following the back-to-back wins, the IceHogs headed into the AHL All-Star Break, except for defenseman Andrew Campbell. Campbell was honored with being named the AHL’s Western Conference playing Captain for the AHL All-Star Weekend, becoming the lone IceHogs representative after Collin Delia’s recall to the Chicago Blackhawks.

Absolute power move by The Captain. Lets the jock hang free in a locker room full of All-Stars #AHLAllStar pic.twitter.com/BgTc1LKIq4

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) January 27, 2019

Campbell, in his 11th season as a pro, was named the playing Captain for the Western Conference to make his first AHL All-Star appearance in his career. Campbell has played in 695 AHL games in his 11 professional seasons with 145 points. He also has skated in 42 NHL games since being drafted in 2008 by the Los Angeles Kings.

#2 on the ice, but #1 in our heart pic.twitter.com/7wVMBxuXUg

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) January 28, 2019

Competing in the Hardest Shot and the Team Breakaway Relay events, Campbell showed his power with the slap-shot, hitting triple digit with a 100.0 MPH clapper on his third attempt. Only Lehigh Valley Phantoms forward Greg Carey would hit a harder shot, winning the contest with a 100.4 MPH slap-shot.

Campbell in the CCM Hardest Shot:
98.3
99.5

…And 100.0 Pure Brawn pic.twitter.com/8O8j228knO

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) January 28, 2019

In the Breakaway Relay event, Campbell was able to put one home against Hershey Bears goaltender Vitek Vanecek, helping the Western Conference overcome the Eastern Conference to win the AHL All-Stars Skills Competition, 17-14.

Soups is playing chess and everyone else is playing checkers

The Captain shoots first, purposely lulls the goalie to sleep, and the Western Conference goes on to win the Breakaway Relay pic.twitter.com/Gm8RRCS3rr

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) January 28, 2019

Stick taps from his whole squad as Campbell skates over to accept the trophy for the Western Conference's win tonight

Orange slices and Capri Sun for everyone, and we're back at it tomorrow night! pic.twitter.com/ktWu3ItTDl

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) January 28, 2019

Campbell joins the AHL Central Division All-Stars on Monday night for the AHL All-Star Challenge, pitting all four divisions against each other in three-on-three games in a round-robin format. The Central start the night against the Atlantic Division, before taking on the North Division and then finishing against the Pacific Division in the round-robin portion. The AHL All-Star Challenge begins on Monday at 7pm ET in Springfield, Massachusetts.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs return to action following the AHL All-Star break on Friday, February 1 as they host the Chicago Wolves in another installment of the Illinois Lottery Cup Rivalry this season. Following Friday night’s game in Rockford, the IceHogs travel North to Milwaukee to take on the Admirals on Saturday night.

Puck drop on Friday at the BMO Harris Bank Center is scheduled for 7pm CT. The IceHogs hold a 4-3-1 record against the Wolves this season. On Saturday night, puck drop is scheduled for 7pm CT at the UW-Panther Arena in Milwaukee. The IceHogs hold a 3-2-1 record against the Admirals this season.

The post IceHogs, Campbell Excel Over AHL All-Star Break appeared first on The Rink.

IceHogs In A Goal Famine

Around this time last season, the Rockford IceHogs paired a multi-faceted offensive attack with stellar goaltending on their way to a playoff push that saw them reach the Calder Cup Western Conference Finals. It seems that both ingredients from last season are going to be needed once again for the IceHogs to find a playoff push yet again in the second half of the season. While goaltending has been a positive for the IceHogs this season, a collective 2.69 GAA and a 0.915 save-percentage from Collin Delia, Anton Forsberg, and Kevin Lankinen, their offense has been lacking.

This season, the IceHogs have scored two goals or fewer in 26 games this season. In those 26 games, the IceHogs hold a 2-18-6 record. On the opposite side, the IceHogs have scored three goals or more in 18 games this season. When the IceHogs score 3 or more goals, they hold a 15-1-2 record. It doesn’t take a genius to decipher that the more goals you score, the better your chance is of winning a game, but for the IceHogs this season, all but one game when scoring at least three goals has come away with at least one point in the standings.

So what can the IceHogs do to create more scoring chances? Or is it down to their roster and who is and who is not pulling their offensive weight?

The Usual Suspects

This season has seen a trio of forwards pushing the offensive pace for the IceHogs. Starting with the team-leader in scoring, Anthony Louis. After finishing last season at the top of the scoring charts as a rookie, Louis is once again pacing the Rockford roster in points with 26 through 44 games. Louis holds the team-lead in assists with 16 and is tied for second in goal-scoring with 10 so far this year.

Rockford IceHogs forward Anthony Louis. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

A constant fixture on the Rockford powerplay, Louis uses his shifty skating ability to his advantage to get to the open areas to get pucks on net. His on-ice vision is tops on the team and he uses his hands to set-up teammates often. The one thing hurting Louis is his lack of size at the professional level. Unable to consistently take the puck top the net, Louis’ perimeter game can only take him and the IceHogs so far on offense.

Also playing a more perimeter game for the IceHogs is rookie Dylan Sikura. Still one of the top forward prospects in the Chicago Blackhawks’ system, Sikura has been good, but not great in his first full-professional season. Ranking tied for second on the team in points with 23, and leading the roster in goals with 11 this season, the younger Sikura brother has been a focal-point of the Rockford offense this season.

Rockford IceHogs forward Dylan Sikura fires a shot against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Much like Louis, Dylan Sikura uses his skating speed and agility to his advantage to mask his lack of physical ability to get to tough areas of the ice. Sikura is not afraid to shoot the puck from anywhere on the ice, as is evident from his team-leading 107 shots on goal, four more than Louis’ 103, even though playing 11 fewer games. The problem with Sikura, and many of the IceHogs’ top-offensive threats, is that he relies on other to create space for him to find lanes to the net or to utilize his hands. When Sikura is allotted time and space, his game excels but it is hard for him to find that when paired alongside forwards that share his skill-set and size.

The same can also be said for Jordan Schroeder this season. Tied with Sikura in points this season with 23, Schroeder ranks alone in third on the team in goal-scoring with nine this season. The veteran of the group of top-scoring IceHogs, Schroeder, another under-sized skill winger, is a figure on the powerplay with Sikura and Louis, utilizing his ability to distribute the puck. Schroeder also ranks behind Sikura and Louis in shots on goal this season with 98.

Rockford IceHogs forward Jordan Schroeder makes a pass against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Although he is an under-sized player, Schroeder is not afraid to get below the net and try to set up offense from around the net and try to get and keep the puck deep in the IceHogs offensive zone. The problem for the likes off all three players is that they cannot be expected to carry the weight of the team by themselves. The hard truth is that they works best as complimentary players to other forwards who can create space, either with size and physicality or by being equally as skilled. While size is not always a benefit, it can’t hurt to be able to pair top-skill players with those who can give them space to work and also contribute offensively. Something the IceHogs took advantage of last season.

Supporting Cast?

The most disappointing returning player from last season’s IceHogs team might just be the elder Sikura brother in Tyler Sikura. Last season, Sikura played his first full season in the AHL and did not miss his opportunity to make an impact. Last season, Tyler Sikura finished second on the team in goals with 23, and third on the team in points with 39. Currently, Sikura ranks tied for fifth in goals with just 6 tallies on the season, while ranking seventh overall in points with 14 this season.

Tyler Sikura of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Sikura was used in a top-six forward role for the majority of last season when he was producing. As a player who can make his impact around the net, Sikura hasn’t been able to find his groove this season and has been demoted to the third and fourth-line groupings for the majority of the season. If the IceHogs want to increase their offensive production, maybe a move up in the lineup and a role as a garbage-goal scorer in the crease could boost both Sikura’s game and the IceHogs offense.

While Tyler Sikura could provide a spark up front with his physical presence, the IceHogs could also use any speed up-front that they can get. Speed, Alexandre Fortin has. What has not come full-circle for the second-year pro is his finishing ability. While he can fly down the ice and use his foot-speed to create offensive chances, Fortin’s ability to finish those chances created hasn’t developed like the Chicago Blackhawks had hoped at this point.

Alexandre Fortin of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Fortin has tallied just five points in 19 games this season with the IceHogs, and has not recorded a point in his last 12 games. In fact, all five of Fortin’s points this season came in a four-game span from December 15-21. While his speed makes him an asset in most any role with the IceHogs, Fortin will have to find a way to generate points if Rockford is to climb out of the bottom of the AHL Central Division.

Much like Sikura from last season to this season, another player that hasn’t fully lived up to the hype generated for him for the 2017-18 playoff push is Victor Ejdsell. Talking about a player who could provide size and skill, the six-foot-five Swede hasn’t been able to light the lamp consistently this season and has yet to regain the level of play he finished with during the Calder Cup Playoff run last season. Ejdsell ranks sixth on the team in points with 17 and is tied for fifth in goal-scoring with Sikura with six goals on the season.

Victor Ejdsell tries to control a rebound against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Grand Rapids Griffins)

Ejdsell’s inconsistency this season has been curbed as of late, scoring six points in his last eight games, but from time to time his lack of involvement in the offensive zone leaves a lot to be desired. Playing in his first full season in North America, he has the size and has shown the skill-set to be an asset in a top-six forward role, but he has yet to show a complete, rounded game for the IceHogs this season. If Ejdsell could find an extra edge to his game, he could provide the physical presence and top-end skills to complement a Dylan Sikura or Anthony Louis.

Finally, one of the top performers for the IceHogs this season from the defensive group has been M.I.A as of late. Darren Raddysh ranks third on the team in points this season with 22, ranking in a tie for fourth in goal-scoring with 7 this year, but has not scored since the Christmas holiday break and has just three points over that 13 game span.

Darren Raddysh of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Grand Rapids Griffins)

Another fixture on the Rockford powerplay units, Raddysh has already equaled his point production from last season with 22 points in 44 games (22 points in 66 games last season), but has not gone longer than nine games between goals this season prior to the Holiday break. Raddysh plays a solid two-way game and is not afraid to jump into the offensive zone to try to create chances. If he could be given more freedom to do so from the blue-line, Raddysh could step up and be the point-producer the IceHogs need if their forwards group cannot pull the weight necessary.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs return to action on Friday night as they play host to back-to-back homes games this weekend. On Friday night, the IceHogs host the Manitoba Moose for a 7pm CT puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford. Manitoba is currently the only team behind the IceHogs in the AHL Central Division based on overall points. The IceHogs dropped a 2-1 shootout loss to the Moose on October 28, the only previous matchup between the clubs this season.

On Saturday night, the IceHogs host the Iowa Wild on Autism Awareness night. Puck drop on Saturday night is scheduled for 6pm CT. Rockford holds a 2-4-1 record against the Wild this season following a 4-1 loss in Des Moines in their last meeting.

The post IceHogs Goal-Scoring Slump Continues appeared first on The Rink.

IceHogs Fall Twice Over Weekend

Coming off the biggest margin of victory since November 4, the IceHogs had themselves a bit of momentum heading on the road for three games in Texas starting on Friday night against the Stars and then Saturday and upcoming on Tuesday against the San Antonio Rampage. While they didn’t totally lack scoring over the weekend, scoring three goals in each game, Rockford was only able to come away with one point out of a possible four points.

Texas Stars def, Rockford IceHogs, 4-3 (SO)

Against the Stars, the IceHogs found success on the powerplay, tallying two goals on the man-advantage thanks to efforts from Dylan Sikura and Anthony Louis, the top-two point leaders for the IceHogs this season. The goal coming between the powerplay tallies for the IceHogs, which was the 2-2 game-tying goal at the time, came in highlight-reel form from Nathan Noel. His second goal of the season came on a mid-air shot, cutting across the middle of the ice.

Find it below at the 1:55 mark of the game highlights:

Noel wasn’t only active on the score-sheet for the IceHogs, but also on the fight card for the night. Noel dropped the gloves with James Phelan early in the third period, Noel fell one assist short of a Gordie Howe Hat-Trick on the night. Also dropping the gloves earlier in the game was defenseman Dennis Gilbert as he squared up with Samuel Laberge.

Gilbert leads the IceHogs this season with 5 fighting majors, followed by Noel with 3 fighting majors to his name. All of last season, Rockford totaled 11 fighting majors. So far through 40 games this season, the IceHogs have 15 fighting majors. While maybe it’s a case of roster make-up this season to last, or that teams who are facing more adversity feel the need to drop the gloves more as a means of sparking the team, the IceHogs have shown bite this season while their play on the ice has left more to be desired. After having the least amount of fighting majors last season in the AHL, the IceHogs rank 14th in the league so far this season.

Kevin Lankinen got the start for the IceHogs against the Stars and made 26 saves on 29 shots faced. Lankinen has allowed three or fewer goals in his last seven-straight starts dating back to October 17, but sees his overall record this season drop to 2-4-3 with a 2.51 GAA and a 0.908 save-percentage. In the shootout, Travis Morin was the only Stars skater to beat Lankinen for the deciding goal, while Victor Ejdsell, Dylan Sikura, and Anthony Louis were unable to convert for Rockford.

San Antonio Rampage def. Rockford IceHogs, 4-3

Following Friday’s shootout loss, the IceHogs headed South on I-35 to San Antonio for their first of two games in four days against the San Antonio Rampage. Anton Forsberg got the start for the IceHogs, looking to break out of a three-game personal losing streak in net.

The IceHogs played from behind all night, only having a tied game at 0-0 or 1-1 for a combined 14:31 minutes of game time. The Rampage opened the scoring in the first period with Trevor Smith‘s sixth goal of the season. Rockford would tie the game early in the second period thanks to Dylan Sikura’s 11th goal of the season. San Antonio would break out for two goals in the second period following Sikura’s game-tier to take a 3-1 lead into the third period.

Rockford IceHogs forward Jordan Schroeder (Courtesy: Texas Stars)

Rockford would crawl back into contention early in the third period with a goal from Jordan Schroeder to cut the Rampage lead to 3-2, but Jordan Nolan would put San Antonio back on top by a two-goal lead with his 10th goal of the season. Schroeder would tally his ninth goal of the season to cut the Rampage lead to 4-3 with just 11 seconds to play in regulation and the comeback would be too little, too late for the IceHogs.

With his two-goal effort against San Antonio on Saturday night, Schroeder continues to be one of the most reliable point-producers for the IceHogs, second on the team with a 0.71 point-per-game rate this season, just behind Dylan Sikura’s 0.76 point-per-game rate. Schroeder also moved into a tie for second on the IceHogs in scoring this season with 22 points, equal to Dylan Sikura and three points behind Anthony Louis for the team-lead with 25 points.

Anton Forsberg made 35 saves on 39 shots faced, losing his fourth-straight game in regulation. Forsberg’s record this season now falls to 7-7-1, with a 2.86 GAA and a 0.912 save-percentage.

IceHogs Trending Down

The loss on Saturday night marks Rockford’s eighth loss in their last nine games (1-6-2) since the Christmas holiday break. Rockford’s 2-6-2 mark over their last ten games is also the second-worst ten game stretch in the AHL since December 21 behind the Ontario Reign. 

With 92 goals for this season, the IceHogs also have the second-lowest goal production in the AHL behind the Manitoba Moose. Rockford and Manitoba are the only two teams to not break the 100-goal mark this season and the Moose have played four fewer games than the IceHogs. The IceHogs are scoring 2.30 goals per game this season to Manitoba’s 2.38 goals per game, making them the lowest scoring team on average in the AHL.

While the two powerplay goal effort on Friday night against the Stars helped earn the IceHogs a point in the standings, they still rank in the bottom-third of the AHL in converting on the man-advantage. With a 15.2-percent success-rate on the powerplay, Rockford ranks 27th in the league converting with the advantage. A very disappointing mark given that the team ranks 13th in powerplay opportunities this season.

Conversely, on the penalty-kill, the IceHogs rank tied for fifth in the AHL with a 84.6-percent kill-rate. Rockford ranks 15th in the league in times shorthanded this season with 162.

Roster Updates

Neil Manning was added to the IceHogs roster from the Indy Fuel of the ECHL on Wednesday, with Matheson Iacopelli heading to the Fuel from Rockford in the same transaction. Manning has three games played this season with the IceHogs. Iacopelli has four points (2 G, 2 A) in 25 games with Rockford this season. UPDATE: Manning was re-assigned to the Fuel on Monday afternoon.

On Thursday, defenseman Luc Snuggerud was activated to the roster after being cleared to return to practice. He is yet to be cleared to return to game action. Snuggerud has not played with the IceHogs since suffering a head injury on November 3 against the Iowa Wild. Snuggerud had one assist in his four games played this season with the IceHogs.

On Friday, the Chicago Blackhawks traded Jan Rutta and a 2019 seventh-round pick to the Tampa Bay Lightning for Slater Koekkoek and a 2019 fifth-round pick. Rutta played in eight games with the IceHogs, tallying four points (G, 3 A). Koekkoek has 14 points (9 G, 9 A) in 85 career NHL games with the Tampa Bay Lightning and in 185 AHL games with the Syracuse Crunch, Koekkoek has 55 points points (12 G, 43 A).

Finally, the Chicago Blackhawks assigned defenseman Brandon Davidson to the IceHogs on Sunday afternoon. Davidson has played in 10 games with the Blackhawks this season with just one assist. Davidson has not played in the AHL since the 2014-15 season with the Oklahoma City Barons. In his 162 career NHL games, Davidson has 23 points (9 G, 14 A) and in 150 AHL games, Davidson has 28 points (11 G, 17 A).

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Tuesday night as they close the three-game Texas road-trip with another contest against the San Antonio Rampage. Following Saturday night’s loss, the IceHogs hold a 1-2-2 record against the Rampage this season. Puck drop for Tuesday night’s game at the AT&T Center is set for 7pm CT.

The post IceHogs Salvage One Point Over Weekend In Texas appeared first on The Rink.

IceHogs Take Five Of Six Points Over The Weekend

For the third time this season, the IceHogs faced a three games in three nights stretch of their schedule. With a road game against the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday night, followed by back-to-back home games against the Texas Stars and Griffins again, on Saturday and Sunday nights in Rockford. It was a hotly contested stretch as all three games were decided by one goal and two of them went to overtime.

IceHogs def. Griffins, 3-2 (OT)

On Friday night in Grand Rapids, the IceHogs topped the Griffins 3-2 in overtime to mark their third win in a four-game stretch, all coming by a 3-2 score in overtime. Behind Collin Delia’s 26 saves on 28 shots faced and Luke Johnson‘s two-goal performance, the IceHogs came out on top to begin the weekend’s slate.

Johnson opened the game’s scoring in the first period with a powerplay goal and closed it with the overtime winner, also on the powerplay. Johnson’s fourth goal of the season not only gave Rockford the win but also the first two-powerplay goal night since October 20 for the IceHogs. He also led the team in shots on goal with five, but the IceHogs were out-shot 28-22 by the Griffins, including being out-shot 14-4 in the first period.

Stars def. IceHogs, 3-2 (OT)

Following Friday’s win, the IceHogs returned home to take on the Texas Stars. Saturday also marked the AHL debut for defenseman Jan Rutta, who had cleared waivers from the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday afternoon.

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate a goal against the Texas Stars. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

With Anton Forsberg in net, the IceHogs again went to overtime for the second game in-a-row, but this time fell on the wrong side of a 3-2 finish as the Stars found the winner in the extra frame. Forsberg made 49 saves on 52 shots faced and was named the first star of the game, despite the loss. The Stars took an early second period lead but Rockford answered late in the middle frame with a powerplay goal from Jordan Schroeder. The third period would see the IceHogs take a 2-1 lead after Lucas Carlsson found the back of the net for the third time this season, but the Stars would tie the game just three minutes later and force overtime, where they would find the winner from Adam Mascherin.

The IceHogs were again woefully out-shot by the Stars 52-34, including being out-shot 15-7 in the first period and 5-1 in overtime. Forsberg’s overtime loss moved his record to 5-3-1 on the season, but his 49-save performance improved his save-percentage for the season to 0.917.

IceHogs def. Griffins, 2-1

The IceHogs closed the weekend on Sunday, taking on the Griffins for the second time in three days. Much like the first outing on Friday, it would be another one-goal game that would come out in favor of the IceHogs. The narrative of the weekend continued with the IceHogs being out-shot by Grand Rapids 38-29, 16-9 in the first period, but Collin Delia shut the door on the Griffins again making 37 saves. Over the weekend, the IceHogs were out-shot in three first periods by a 45-20 margin.

Rockford IceHogs defenseman Lucas Carlsson scores the eventual game-winning goal against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Rockford opened the scoring in the third period as Lucas Carlsson tallied his second goal in as many games, giving the IceHogs the 1-0 lead. Jordan Schroeder would add his second goal in as many games as well, totaling six on the year, to extend the Rockford lead to 2-0 before the Griffins got one on the board with just under 10 seconds to play in regulation to deny Delia his first shutout of the season.

Delia’s two wins and 63 saves on 66 shots faced over the weekend improved his record this season to 7-5-4, with a GAA of 2.34 and save-percentage of 0.933. His GAA is tied for the third-best in the AHL and save-percentage is the best in the league among qualified goalies.

One more stat for the road:

Rockford’s last seven wins have all been one-goal games. 16 of their 29 games this season have been decided by one-goal. Rockford holds a 8-2-6 record this season in one-goal games.

Jan Rutta Makes His Rockford Debut

Last Thursday, the Chicago Blackhawks placed defenseman Jan Rutta on waiver to be sent to the AHL. On Friday, Rutta cleared waivers and was sent to the IceHogs, although he did not join the team for Friday’s game in Grand Rapids. Instead, Rutta was in the lineup on Saturday night against the Texas Stars. Rutta was paired on the top-line with Lucas Carlsson for both games he played over the weekend.

Jumping right into the thick of the lineup, Rutta saw ice-time on both the powerplay and penalty-kill for the IceHogs. He did not record a point in either game he played in, but recorded six shots on goal and was a plus-one rating.

Rockford IceHogs defenseman Jan Rutta makes his team debut on December 15. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Prior to the 2017-18 season, Rutta joined Chicago as a free agent after playing four seasons with Piráti Chomutov in the Czech professional league. In 23 games this season with the Blackhawks, Rutta has tallied six points (2 G, 4 A) and has been in and out of the regular rotation. Not what the Blackhawks would want to see from a player they gave a $2.25M contract to this summer.

In 57 games last season with Chicago, Rutta totaled 20 points (6 G, 14 A) and looked to have a somewhat promising future as a member of the Blackhawks’ blue-line, but the price-tag on him has set standards too high for him to reach with his play this season.

IceHogs interim head coach Derek King, speaking with the media following Rutta’s team debut on Saturday, was very candid in his evaluation of Rutta and the “plan” for him to get back into the NHL, where King feels Rutta belongs.

#IceHogs HC Derek King on Jan Rutta: "He settled in. You can see he is an #NHL player. We're gonna take advantage of having him here & hopefully his play will open some eyes, maybe with another team, & he'll get outta here & be where he should be, in the NHL."#AHL#Blackhawks

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) December 16, 2018

#IceHogs HC Derek King on the plan for Jan Rutta in RFD: "I'll take him for the whole year if he's going to play like he did in the 2nd & 3rd period. I'm not sure what the plans are. Maybe CHI will being him back up, maybe a scout will see he fits their team."#AHL#Blackhawks

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) December 16, 2018

Speaking after the game, Rutta also added what this season has been like in Chicago and what he hopes to accomplish with the IceHogs.

Jan Rutta on his mindset coming to the #IceHogs from the #Blackhawks: "It wasn't a good start to the year. I'm here to work, looking forward to the work & you never know what's going to happen. Just wanna help the team & get better as a player & we'll see."#RFDvsTEX#AHL

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) December 16, 2018

It would seem that the goal for Rutta may be short-term with the IceHogs as he may be looking to find an NHL job elsewhere as the Blackhawks look at other options on defense from within their own system. That, or the Blackhawks might be giving him the Cody Franson treatment from last season. Only time will tell.

Blackhawks Recall Delia, Crawford To IR, Lankinen Joins IceHogs

On Sunday night, Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford exited the game against the San Jose Sharks after a collision in net. Dylan Strome had nowhere to go defending against Evander Kane and Logan Couture on a breakout chance and ran into Crawford, forcing the goalie to bear the brunt of the collision and hit the back of his head against the goal-post on his way down to the ice. Crawford immediately left the game after the hit and head coach Jeremy Colliton confirmed that Crawford would be placed in concussion protocol following the game.

Corey Crawford leaves the game after this nasty collision. pic.twitter.com/WCKD7Mgczh

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 17, 2018

As all Blackhawks fans know, Crawford missed ten months of action last season and over the Summer due to a concussion he suffered in December of last season. It was hit or miss for month about when or even if Crawford would return to the Blackhawks. He joined the team much earlier than most expected, and was doing his best to back-stop the woeful play in front of him with Chicago.

Late on Monday afternoon, the Blackhawks placed Crawford on injured-reserve, recalled Collin Delia to Chicago, and also brought Kevin Lankinen from the Indy Fuel of the ECHL to the Rockford IceHogs.

Now, a bad Blackhawks season has gotten all that much worse.

For Crawford, the most important aspect of this situation is his health. Brain injuries are becoming more and more serious to deal with, given the advancements in medical technology, diagnosis, and treatment. To have  to deal with two concussions in a 12-month span is nothing to scoff at, especially if one took ten months to recover from. Crawford is and always will be a cornerstone of the Blackhawks’ last decade of success and everyone hopes for a speedy and full recovery for him.

The reality for the organization now on the ice is that a giant hole is left on a roster that already is at the bottom of the league. Backup goaltender Cam Ward will undoubtedly get the majority of starts moving forward, but with the Blackhawks recalling Delia, they may just give the second-year pro an extended NHL opportunity after making his debut last season.

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Collin Delia makes a save against the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

For Collin Delia, the Blackhawks avoid any waiver-wire hassle moving him between the NHL and AHL as he is waivers-exempt. Delia made his NHL debut with the Blackhawks last season, playing in two games and coming away with a 1-1-0 record, 3.96 GAA and a 0.889 save-percentage. Far from the numbers he has put up this year with a 7-5-4 record, 2.34 GAA and a 0.933 save-percentage with the IceHogs. Keep in mind that he, along with Forsberg, have been playing behind the second-lowest scoring offense in the AHL.

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Anton Forsberg. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Anton Forsberg remains in Rockford for the time being. Forsberg has a 5-3-1 record in Rockford this year with a 2.62 GAA and a 0.917 save-percentage. He’ll undoubtedly get the majority of starts over Lankinen, who is 4-2-0 with a 3.18 GAA and a 0.893 save-percentage with the Indy Fuel this season, started the year in Rockford and has a 1-2-1 AHL record with a 2.69 GAA and a 0.889 save-percentage in four games with the IceHogs.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Wednesday night as they close a three-game homestand when they host the Milwaukee Admirals. Puck drop is set for 7pm CT at the BMO Harris Bank Center for the fifth meeting between the teams this season. Following that, the IceHogs are on the road against the Chicago Wolves on Friday, Dec. 21. Puck drop at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont is set for 7pm CT and will also be the fifth meeting between the Illinois Lottery Cup Rivals this year.

The IceHogs sit in fifth-place in the AHL Central Division with a 13-10-6 record and 32 points in the standings. Both rank behind the Admirals (1st, 37 points) and the Wolves (4th, 33 points).

The post IceHogs Win Two Of Three, Delia Recalled appeared first on The Rink.

Possible Chicago Blackhawks Recalls: Forwards

This Summer saw a lot of interest and chips put behind the fact that Victor Ejdsell and Dylan Sikura were penciled into the NHL regular lineup. Neither one of those players made the Blackhawks’ roster, but there was Luke Johnson and Alexandre Fortin making their NHL debuts early this year. Sikura and Ejdsell remain on the outside looking in at the Blackhawks from the Rockford IceHogs roster, but they remain two of the top options upfront for potential NHL call-ups.

Outside of those two, another lesser-recognized option has emerged after the 20-game mark for the IceHogs. Anthony Louis, last year’s point-leader in Rockford, is again near the top of point-production for the Hogs and continues to be an offensive-creator for a recently starved Rockford attack.

Dylan Sikura of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Probables

• Dylan Sikura: 22 GP, 15 Points (6G, 9A), +2
  • Sikura has lived up to his AHL hype for the most part this season. Leading the IceHogs in points and shots on goal (79), his ability to drive the Rockford offense is his biggest asset. If Sikura is going to make the leap to the NHL this season, he’ll have to prove that he can be more than a perimeter player or that he can create his own space with his speed.
• Victor Ejdsell: 21 GP, 11 Points (4G, 7A), -4
  • Ejdsell’s hype-train has lost a bit of steam after joining the organization late last season. Still one of the better shots on the IceHogs, Ejdsell continues to show has the skill-set to succeed in at the AHL level, he’ll have to show it more consistently if he wants to get a shot with Chicago.
• Anthony Louis: 22 GP, 13 Points (8G, 5A), +2
  • Another offensive driver like Sikura, Anthony Louis remains a consistent top-player for the IceHogs. After a breakout season last year, the third-year pro has the foot-speed and hands to make an impact in any game, but his size continues to be a hindrance. If Louis can continue to show his worth on both special teams units for Rockford and maintain his offensive production-rate, he should be rewarded with his first NHL action in Chicago.

Jordan Schroeder (right) is all smiles against the San Antonio Rampage. (Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs)

Dark Horses

• Jacob Nilsson: 22 GP, 7 Points ( 2G, 5A), -3
  • The Blackhawks organization took a flyer on Nilsson this summer, much like they did with players in the past like Michael Kempny and David Kampf. While both of those players have gone on to become NHL-regulars, Nilsson may be a bit away from that standard at the moment. A reliable secondary offensive option for Rockford, if Nilsson continues on his pace and proves his worth on the IceHogs penalty-kill, he may get a shot in Chicago.
• Jordan Schroeder: 13 GP, 10 Points (4G, 6A), -5
  • One of the veterans of the IceHogs forward group, Schroeder has been a key figure to the Rockford attack, when he is healthy. He leads the IceHogs in point-per-game percentage and has played a key role on the powerplay as of late. If for some reason the Blackhawks want to save their younger players from the horrors of their current form, a veteran like Schroeder could be an option.

Possible Chicago Blackhawks Recalls: Defensemen

While the Blackhawks’ defensive group has been arguably their biggest weakness this season, the rotation between Chicago and Rockford for blue-liners has been quiet. Gustav Forsling was an early-season player who was thought to be in line for a spot in the Blackhawks’ rotation, but began the year out of action with an injury. Once he was healthy, Forsling spent a cup of coffee’s worth of time with the IceHogs before making the leap to the NHL. Chicago has yet to send down any defensemen to the IceHogs this year, but if a move were made, there are two standouts among the Rockford group.

Carl Dahlstrom of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Grand Rapids Griffins)

Probables

• Carl Dahlstrom: 18 GP, 7 Points (G, 6A), -6
  • One of the more experienced defensemen on the IceHogs roster, Dahlstrom plays a game that the Blackhawks don’t really have in their defensive group at the moment: shut-down defense and blocking pucks. While he may not be the second-coming of Niklas Hjalmarsson, Dahlstrom’s physical presence and ability to skate with the puck could be enough for Chicago to give him another look late this season.
• Darren Raddysh: 22 GP, 14 Points (5G, 9A), +2
  • What Chicago doesn’t necessarily need is another offensive-minded defenseman. But with Raddysh, the IceHogs are benefiting from a player who can hold his own in both ends and makes his offensive bread with a dangerous slap-shot. His ability to contribute on the Rockford powerplay has been noticeable and he could be a “hey, we haven’t seen you yet” type of Blackhawks recall later this year.

Lucas Carlsson of the Rockford IceHogs. (Courtesy: Grand Rapids Griffins)

Dark Horses

• Lucas Carlsson: 21 GP, 9 Points (2G, 7A), -5
  • One of the seven rookie regulars for the IceHogs this season, Carlsson is the lone first-year defenseman who has played in every game this season that he has been healthy. Carlsson already has two professional seasons under his belt in the SHL with Brynäs IF and his experience shows. Responsible in his own end, Carlsson has been paired with Dahlstrom all season long and has been able to show off a bit of his offensive skill-set early this year.
• Joni Tuulola: 18 GP, 3 Points (G, 2A), -2
  • Tuulola joined the IceHogs late last season and made an immediate impression on Jeremy Colliton, eventually edging Darren Raddysh out of the lineup in the Western Conference Finals in the Calder Cup Playoffs last season. Playing with a good mixture of finesse and physicality, Tuulola is still a raw talent, but might have a shot at making the jump if he continues to progress.

What’s Next?

For Rockford, the IceHogs are off until December 1, when play host for a Saturday Night game against the Milwaukee Admirals at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford. Puck drop is set for 6pm CT. After that, the IceHogs host the San Antonio Rampage for a Sunday afternoon contest. Puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center is set for 4pm CT on Sunday.

For the Blackhawks, coming off of Tuesday night’s big loss against the Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago travels North of the border for a Thursday night game against the Winnipeg Jets. Puck drop on Thursday is set for 7pm CT at the Bell MTS Place. After that, the Blackhawks are on the road against the Nashville Predators on Saturday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7pm CT at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

The post A Look At Chicago Blackhawks Possible Recalls appeared first on The Rink.

Rockford IceHogs By The Numbers

The IceHogs this season have been on a bit of a roller coaster. Starting off the year by scoring three goals in their first two games, then hitting a stretch of the schedule where they scored five goals in four of five straight games. Following that, another scoring slump with back-to-back one-goal performances and then an overtime win to finish game ten on the year.

More from Colliton postgame on ths #IceHogs impression after 10 games: "We have some raw material to work with. We have talent, but have to be sharper, have to be cleaner and put things together."#AHL

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) November 3, 2018

While goal-scoring has been hot and cold to begin the year, there are a few constants for Rockford this season. Special Teams, solid goaltending, and Dylan Sikura have been major driving factors behind the success the IceHogs have enjoyed this year.

Forward Thinking

Through the first ten games of the season, the Rockford IceHogs have been paced in scoring by another hot start from a smaller-forward. Much like the start to last season for Vince Hinostroza, Rockford is enjoying a nine points (3 G, 6 A) in ten games stretch from rookie forward Dylan Sikura. Over the Summer, Sikura was penciled into a spot with the Chicago Blackhawks but found himself as one of the final cuts in training camp. Since then, Sikura has led the IceHogs offensively in his first full professional season and figures to push for NHL playing time in the near future if his current pace holds.

Here are the points leaders for Forwards for the Rockford IceHogs:

1. Dylan Sikura – 3 G, 6 A, 9 Pts
2. Tyler Sikura – 4 G, 3 A, 7 Pts
3. Matthew Highmore – 3 G, 4 A, 7 Pts
4. Victor Ejdsell – 3 G, 3 A, 6 Pts
5. Jordan Schroeder – 3 G, 2 A, 5 Pts
6. Anthony Louis – 3 G, 2 A, 5 Pts
7. Terry Broadhurst – 2 G, 3 A, 5 Pts
8. Jacob Nilsson – 4 A, 4 Pts
9. Henrik Samuelsson – 2 G, A, 3 Pts
10. Matheson Iacopelli – G, A, 2 Pts

Getting Defensive

The Rockford IceHogs defensive group may be one of the deepest in the AHL. Three rookies including Blake Hillman, Dennis Gilbert, and Lucas Carlsson all joined an already talented group in Rockford and have been pushing for significant ice-time. The Chicago Blackhawks also added veteran Andrew Campbell to the organization this offseason and he has provided steady work on the blue-line and has already played a leadership role in Rockford. With Darren Raddysh, Carl Dahlstrom and Joni Tuulola returning from breakout seasons last year, and the return to health of Gustav Forsling, the internal competition for ice-time has pushed the IceHogs defensemen into some standout play early in the year.

Here are the defensive leaders for the Rockford IceHogs:

1. Darren Raddysh – 3 G, 5 A, 8 Pts (+2)
2. Carl Dahlstrom – 5 A, 5 Pts (+1)
3. Lucas Carlsson – G, A, 2 Pts (-2)
4. Andrew Campbell – G, 1 Pt (+1)
5. Luc Snuggerud – A, 1 Pt (-4)
6. Dennis Gilbert – A, 1 Pt (-3)
7. Joni Tuulola – A, 1 Pt (-2)
8. Blake Hillman – A, 1 Pt (+4)
9. Gustav Forsling – 3 GP, 7 SOG (+2)

Holy Goalies!

Much like the defensive group for the IceHogs, competition for time in net is high for the Rockford tandem of Collin Delia and Anton Forsberg. When Chicago Blackhawks’ starter Corey Crawford returned to health, the organization were put into a tricky situation with Crawford, Cam Ward, and Anton Forsberg all on the NHL roster and all worthy of NHL ice-time. Forsberg was the odd-man out and came to Rockford, where Delia started the year as the defacto starter. Forsberg’s AHL resume out-weighs that of Delia’s but their play so far this season has been neck-and-neck, which is the best case scenario for the IceHogs. Head Coach Jeremy Colliton is a big believer in the notion that the players who deserve to play are the ones who will get to play, there are no favors to be had. The competition has brought the best out of both net-minders.

Here are the stats for Collin Delia and Anton Forsberg through the first ten games of the season:

1. Anton Forsberg – 2 GP, 1-1-0, 1.98 GAA, 0.922 Save-Percentage
2. Collin Delia – 6 GP, 4-1-1, 2.64 GAA, 0.925 Save-Percentage

Well Isn’t That Special?

In their most recent outing, the Rockford IceHogs came away with a 3-2 overtime win over the Milwaukee Admirals in Milwaukee on Nov. 2. In that win, the IceHogs were forced to kill-off seven penalties and to their fortune were able to survive without giving up a powerplay goal against. One of the strengths early on for the IceHogs has been their special teams work. Unlike last season where the IceHogs ranked in the bottom-third of the AHL in both the powerplay and penalty-kill for a majority of the season, the start to this year has made the special teams units actually special.

Here are the special teams ranks for the Rockford IceHogs:

• #15 Powerplay in the AHL (9-for-47, 19.1-Percent)
  • Jordan Schoreder leads the IceHogs with 3 powerplay goals this year
• #4 Penalty-Kill in the AHL (40-for-45, 88.9-Percent)

What’s Next?

After Friday night’s overtime win against the Admirals, the IceHogs return home to begin a home-and-home series with the Iowa Wild. Saturday’s game is scheduled for a 6:00pm CT puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford.

Finally on Sunday, the IceHogs and Wild play the back-end of their home-and-home series and close a three games in three night’s stretch of play. Sunday’s puck drop is scheduled for a 5:00pm CT start at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa.

The post By The Numbers: Rockford IceHogs After Ten Games appeared first on The Rink.

Rockford IceHogs Look To Bounce Back

After only coming away with one point in the standings out of a possible four points last weekend, the IceHogs have a great opportunity to gain ground back in the Central Division as they play the Milwaukee Admirals and Iowa Wild for three games in three days. The IceHogs will travel to Milwaukee to take on the Admirals on Friday night before playing a home-and-home series against the Iowa Wild.

The IceHogs come into the contest dealing with some injury issues to a number of their key early season contributors and are potentially out for the weekend action. Matthew Highmore, Jordan Schroeder, and Carl Dahlstrom have all missed time recently due to injuries with Dahlstrom and Highmore exiting the IceHogs’ last game against the Manitoba Moose. In response, the IceHogs recalled forwards Brett Welychka and Radovan Bondra in recent days to fill the roster spots left by Highmore and Dahlstrom, figuring that those players may be out an extended period of time.

With two of their top point-producers out, the IceHogs will need to find more scoring out of their depth players to gain ground early on in the Central Division. Both Dylan Sikura and Tyler Sikura lead the team in points along with Highmore at seven a piece, but no other player is above a 0.70 point-per-game pace on the team besides Schroeder, who is still out. Victor Ejdsell has come around lately after a slow start to the season and could provide the offensive spark the IceHogs need.

Rockford boasts one of the best goaltending duos in the AHL with Collin Delia and Anton Forsberg tending net. For Delia, in six starts he holds a 4-1-1 record with a 2.64 GAA and a 0.925 save-percentage and will figure to get at least one game over the weekend. The other two games may end up falling to Forsberg, who made his IceHogs debut last week. Even though in a loss, Forsberg made 25 saves on 27 shots faced in his lone start in the AHL so far this season. Expect Rockford head coach Jeremy Colliton to give Forsberg two of the three starts to get him up to game speed after only playing one game, NHL or AHL, since the beginning of the year.

Milwaukee Admirals Report

The Milwaukee Admirals welcome the IceHogs into Milwaukee holding the best record at the top of the AHL Central Division. At 8-1-2, the Admirals hold 18 points in the standings and a 0.818 point-percentage which is 5 points ahead of the second-place Chicago Wolves. Milwaukee also has played the most games in the division heading into Friday night’s contest.

The Admirals hold the 11th ranked powerplay unit in the AHL with a 22.0-percent success rate, and rank third-best in the league on the penalty-kill with a 90.0-percent kill-rate. Expect the Admirals and IceHogs to both be dangerous on special teams Friday night on both ends of the ice, but that could effectively cancel each team’s strength out.

Milwaukee is paced in scoring by defenseman Matt Donovan with 12 points (6 G, 6 A) in 11 games played this season with fellow defenseman Frederic Allard behind him on the active roster with 10 points (G, 9 A) this season.

In net, the Admirals are led by Troy Grosenick and Tom McCollum. McCollum holds a 5-1-2 record with a 2.44 GAA and 0.913 save-percentage, while Grosenick has three games started this season and a perfect 3-0-0 record. Grosenick, recently returned from the Nashville Predators, has a 2.60 GAA and a team-leading 0.918 save-percentage.

Iowa Wild Report

The Iowa Wild also come into the weekend slate ahead of the IceHogs in the standings with a 5-2-0 record in their first seven games. With 10 points in the standings and a 0.714 points-percentage, the Wild sit third in the division based on the point-percentage ahead of the IceHogs and Manitoba Moose, who both also hold 10 points. As of Friday, the Wild have played the fewest games of AHL Central Division teams but will be on their own three games in three days trip like the IceHogs.

On special teams, the Wild have the most dangerous powerplay unit in the AHL with a staggering 38.5-percent success rate on the man-advantage. Iowa has the fewest amount of powerplay chances in the AHL with just 26, but have converted on 10 powerplays over their seven games. On the penalty-kill, the Wild rank 16th in the league with an 80.6-percent kill-rate. The IceHogs hold the 4th ranked penalty-kill in the AHL and it will be put to the test if they find themselves in the box against Iowa.

The Wild are paced in scoring by a trio of Luke Kunin, Cal O’Reilly, and rookie Mason Shaw, all with seven points to start the season. The Wild also have four players tied with six points each behind their top three scorers. Iowa has a good way of being dangerous from multiple points on the ice.

In net, the Wild are led by Andrew Hammond with six starts this season out of seven games. Hammond holds a 5-1-0 record with a 2.64 GAA and a 0.915 save-percentage. The other start in net for the Wild came from rookie Kaapo Kahkonen, holding an 0-1-0 record with a 3.13 GAA and a 0.893 save-percentage.

What’s Next?

The next three days are packed with action for the Rockford IceHogs, starting on Friday night. Travelling North to Milwaukee, the IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals on Friday night at the UW Panther Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00pm CT.

After facing the Admirals, the IceHogs return home to begin a home-and-home series with the Iowa Wild. Saturday’s game is scheduled for a 6:00pm CT puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford.

Finally on Sunday, the IceHogs and Wild play the back-end of their home-and-home series. Sunday’s puck drop is scheduled for a 5:00pm CT start at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa.

The post Rockford IceHogs Prepare For Jam-Packed Weekend appeared first on The Rink.

Rockford IceHogs Open BMO Harris Bank Center With Win Over Stars

Opening the BMO Harris Bank Center on Saturday night, the Rockford IceHogs played hosts to the Texas Stars in a rematch of the Calder Cup Western Conference Finals last season, where the Stars eliminated the IceHogs in Six games to advance to the Calder Cup Finals. It was also a welcoming game for the Stars to the Central Division after spending the last three seasons since the AHL moved to a four division format in the Pacific Division.

It wouldn’t take long for the IceHogs to begin their search for revenge as the Sikura brothers got Rockford on the board early for the game’s opening goal. Tyler Sikura was able to bang in a rebound off his brother Dylan Sikura‘s shot from the right circle and the IceHogs took a 1-0 lead. The lead wouldn’t last long, though, as the Stars would tie the game on a goal from James Phelan and then with less than a minute to play, a miscommunication led to the Stars getting a goal from Denis Gurianov to end the period 2-1 for Texas.

The middle frame would see Henrik Samuelsson net his first goal of the season, a rebound chance to tie the game at 2-2 less than two and a half minutes into the period. The Stars would once again answer the bell mid-way through the period as Justin Dowling would re-direct a shot from the blue-line past Collin Delia to give the Stars the lead at 3-2 heading to the third period.

Rockford would again tie the game in the third period as Matheson Iacopelli buried the cross-ice feed from Graham Knott to make it 3-3, mid-way through the final period. Not long after that, the IceHogs found the lead for good as Dylan Sikura would score his first goal of the season to give Rockford the 4-3 lead on a 3-on-3 rush. Darren Raddysh would add the empty-net insurance goal and the IceHogs come away winners over the Stars 5-3.

Postgame Reaction

Tyler Sikura

Dylan Sikura

Collin Delia gets his first win of the season, stopping 34 of 37 shots faced, earning the first-star of the night honors in the win. The IceHogs killed off both powerplays they faced against the Stars and scored on one of their six powerplay chances for.

Rockford IceHogs Route Hershey Bears

The celebration for the first win of the season wouldn’t last long for the IceHogs. After getting the 5-3 win on Saturday night, Rockford played host again on Sunday, this time hosting the Hershey Bears for an afternoon puck drop.

Much like Saturday’s contest, the IceHogs would get on the board early as Tyler Sikura, Henrik Samuelsson, and Anthony Louis teamed up for a great tic-tac-toe goal on the rush with Louis finishing it off for his first goal of the season. With the assist, Tyler Sikura hits a three-game point streak early on this season. The lead wouldn’t survive the period, though, as the Bears would tie the game on a Tyler Lewington shot from the blue-line that found its way by Collin Delia.

The game would enter the second period at 1-1, until the IceHogs capitalized on a powerplay opportunity with Dylan Sikura setting up Jordan Schroeder with a cross-ice pass that Schroeder put home for the 2-1 lead. Schroeder’s first goal of the season and Dylan Sikura’s third assist of the season, putting both Sikura brothers on three-game point-streaks. The Bears would answer back in the second period, a game-tying goal coming from Liam O’Brien on a quick turnaround shot to knot it up at 2-2, seven minutes into the period. But just over 90 seconds later, Graham Knott would find a rebound and get his first goal of the season to give Rockford the lead for good as they headed to the third period.

In the final frame, the IceHogs extended their lead to 4-2, thanks to a goal from Terry Broadhurst coming from a great feed from Jordan Schroeder for Broadhurst’s first goal with the IceHogs in his return this season. Broadhurst played previously with the IceHogs from 2012-2014. Matthew Highmore would add an empty-net goal late in the period to give the IceHogs the 5-2 win on Sunday.

Postgame Reaction

Head Coach Jeremy Colliton

Terry Broadhurst

Jordan Schroeder

Collin Delia, in back-to-back starts, earns his second win of the season with another 30+ save performance. Delia stopped 36 of 38 shots faced to rebound from his 21 of 26 first start of the season and improve his save-percentage to .906 after three games. The IceHogs were a perfect 3-for-3 on their penalty kills and scored on one of their four powerplay opportunities.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back on the road next weekend as they travel Southwest to Arizona to take on the Tucson Roadrunners. The IceHogs and Roadrunners square-off in back-to-back games on Saturday and Sunday, with both puck drops scheduled for 8:05 pm CT.

The post Rockford IceHogs Sweep Home-Opening Weekend appeared first on The Rink.

The 27 year old Schroeder is 5’9″ 170 lbs and spent most of last season in Cleveland playing with the Blue Jackets AHL affiliate.  In Cleveland, he had 36 points (14G, 22A) in 48 games.  He also played 21 games with the NHL club, registering only one goal and one assist.

Most likely, Schroeder will be spending the season in Rockford as a possible replacement for departed veteran leader Chris DiDomenico

Berube’s time with the Blackhawks seemingly came to an end, following the regular season, when he was sent home rather than to Rockford to join the Icehogs in their quest for the Calder Cup.  A December knee injury derailed a good start to his season, and he was never able to completely regain his form.  The Rockford goaltending duties were handled by Collin Delia and Jeff Glass.

Once Delia passed Berube on the organizational depth chart and Finnish goalie Kevin Lankinen was signed this spring someone had to go.  Don’t rule out another goalie getting moved, either, with the reports this morning of Cam Ward possibly signing with the Blackhawks on July first.

The post Blackhawks Acquire Jordan Schroeder For JF Berube appeared first on The Rink.