The Chicago Blackhawks have surprised fans by calling up goaltender Drew Commesso and sending Isaak Phillips to the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. Reports suggest that backup goalie Arvid Soderblom will miss tonight’s game due to illness, providing a reason for the move.
Commesso’s stay in Chicago is likely to be brief as Soderblom’s absence is due to an illness. While he is not anticipated to make his first career start tonight, he could play if Petr Mrazek struggles. Testing out Commesso might be beneficial for the Blackhawks, especially against a Nashville Predators team with offensive difficulties. He is regarded as the top goaltending prospect for the team, having posted an 18-16-4 record with the IceHogs last year, alongside a .906 save percentage and a 2.65 goals-against average, including two shutouts. However, Commesso faces stiff competition for a full-time call-up with Mrazek and Soderblom performing well, and Laurent Brossoit on the mend.
On the other hand, Phillips has been moved down for the third time this season. He has yet to play for the Blackhawks and has only appeared in one game for Rockford. While he may not be secured a long-term position on the Blackhawks’ defense, gaining consistent playing time would greatly benefit his development.
