Lankinen Returns to IceHogs from Chicago Blackhawks

ROCKFORD, Ill. – The Chicago Blackhawks, the National Hockey League affiliate of the Rockford IceHogs announced today that goaltender Kevin Lankinen has been re-assigned to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Lankinen, 24, did not appear in a game with the Blackhawks after being recalled to the club on an emergency basis on Jan. 4. The Helsinki, Finland native is 7-7-1-0 with a 3.17 GAA and a .905 save percentage over 15 appearances with the IceHogs this season. He led the club to wins in four straight appearances from Oct. 30-Nov. 16 and later set the IceHogs' franchise-record for saves when he stopped 55 Milwaukee Admirals shots to backstop Rockford to a 2-1 overtime win over the AHL's then top-ranked team.

On Jan. 3, Lankinen was named the IceHogs' representative to the 2020 AHL All-Star Classic presented by Ontario International Airport in Ontario, California, which will take place from Jan. 26-27.

Additionally, the netminder was recently named a finalist for the Finnish Sports Gala's Role Model of the Year Award for his efforts in improving youth literacy in his home country. The winner of the award will be announced at the Hartwell Arena in Helsinki on Jan. 16.

Hogs Escape “Ruff” Winter with Dog Day Tonight vs. Manitoba:

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate Dog Day tonight, Jan. 8 at 7:00 p.m. against the Manitoba Moose at BMO Harris Bank Center. Bring your dog to the game with a $2 donation to local animal shelters. Fans can also enjoy $2 hot dogs and $5 craft beer. Pick up your Dog Day tickets at IceHogs.com or contact the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office at (815) 847-6399.