Blackhawks Recall Skille From Rockford

The 21-year-old forward appeared in Chicago’s first six games of the season, collecting one goal and five penalty minutes before being assigned to Rockford on Oct. 21. The Blackhawks’ first choice, seventh overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, Skille ranks fourth on the IceHogs with 16 goals and 38 points in 47 AHL contests.

Skille becomes the eighth first-round draft pick on Chicago’s active roster, which includes being the fifth selected by the Blackhawks, joining Brent Seabrook (2003), Cam Barker (2004), Jonathan Toews (2006) and Patrick Kane (2007).

Last season, the Madison, Wisconsin, native made his National Hockey League debut in 16 games with the Blackhawks, notching three goals and two assists. He also racked up 34 points (16G, 18A) and 44 penalty minutes in 59 regular-season contests with Rockford before helping the team reach the second round of the Calder Cup Playoffs with three points (2G, A) in 12 postseason tilts.

Prior to turning pro, Skille spent two seasons at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2005-07), recording 38 points (21G, 17A) and 47 penalty minutes in 65 career games. He was a member of the Badgers 2006 NCAA National Championship team during his freshman year.