BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN SMITH

Rockford, Ill. - The Chicago Blackhawks have assigned forward Ben Smith to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Smith, 23, has tallied 12 points (6g-6a) in 10 games for the IceHogs this season and leads the club with four power-play markers. Smith has recorded one goal in seven regular-season games with Chicago this season.

Chicago’s fifth selection (169th overall) in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft made his National Hockey League debut with Chicago last season, collecting one goal in six regular-season contests before notching three goals in seven Stanley Cup Playoff tilts.

The Avon, Connecticut native skated in 63 games for the IceHogs during the 2010-11 season, finishing with 19 goals and 31 points (19g-12a) during his first professional campaign. For his efforts, Smith was named the IceHogs 2010-11 Rookie of the Year.