Chicago Blackhawks Complete 3-Player Roster Move With Rockford IceHogs

Rookie Nolan Allan was sent down to keep Chicago at the 23-player limit.

Athanasiou's return follows captain Nick Foligno's injury in a game against the Golden Knights, adding depth with a 14th forward.

The 30-year-old, in year two of a $8.5MM deal, has played just 33 games for Chicago since signing in 2023, dwelled by injuries and healthy scratches.

After clearing waivers in November, he proved himself in Rockford, posting 8 goals and 16 points in 16 games despite a fracture in his wirst.

His five games with Chicago this season were unproductive, averaging 9:36 with no points, and the team was at a disadvantage with him on the ice.

Wyatt Kaiser, a 22-year old defenseman, has toggled between the NHL and AHL this year, sticking with Chicago's roster before a late December demotion down to the IceHogs.

Back in Rockford since January, he's managed 1 goal and 6 points in 52 games across both teams.

His 17:39 average ice time with the IceHogs, and 46.7 CF% ranks third among active Hawks skaters, his time in the AHL has certainly paid off and could earn him a potential lineup spot.

Allan, a 21-year-old first-round pick, heads to Rockford after 43 NHL games this season.

With 1 goal and 8 points, he's averaged 15:08, adding 48 blocks and 61 hits.

But his 41.5 CF% is near the bottom of the team, and the Blackhawks was outscored 34-19 in his 5v5 minutes, a stint in the AHL is much needed atm to reset his game.

Athanasiou's provides forward depth amid injury concerns, and a lackluster of offense from the Blackhawks.