The Blackhawks formally announced the signing of four players to NHL entry level deals. Forward Dominik Kahun, defenseman Darren Raddysh and goalie Kevin Lankinen all signed two-year deals while defenseman Lucas Carlsson signed a three-year contract.
German forward Dominik Kahun
As reported back in April and again earlier this month, the Blackhawks signed Czech born German forward Dominik Kahun to join the organization after a very successful Olympic stint this past February. Kahun also won the champion with his team, EHC München, in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL).
Rockford Icehogs defenseman Darren Raddysh
Darren Raddysh, the brother of Tampa Lightning prospect Taylor, was signed to an AHL deal last June, after a successful 5-year career with the Erie Otters. The 6’0″ 200 lbs defenseman played 66 regular season games with the Rockford Icehogs this season, registering 22 points (5G-17A). His solid play in the regular season and this year’s Calder Cup playoffs earned him a longer look by the Blackhawks.
Swedish Defenseman Lucas Calsson
Signing a 3-year deal is Swedish defenseman Lucas Carlsson. Carlsson just finished up his season the SHL with Brynäs IF. The 6’1″ 187 lbs 2016 fourth round pick of the Blackhawks has been playing in the top Swedish professional league for most of four seasons. This past year Carlsson put up 17 points (7G-10A) in 44 games.
Finnish Goaltender Kevin Lankinen
Lankinen is a 6’2″ 185 lbs, 23-year-old Finnish goaltender who has been playing with HIFK in the top Finnish pro league, Liiga. Lankinen has had some extremely impressive stats in the top-tier Finnish league, improving each season. He finished the 14-15 season with a 2.29 GAA and .910 sv% in 24 games, the 15-16 season with 2.36 GAA and .906 sv% in 22 games, the 16-17 season 2.14 GAA and .920 sv% in 42 games and, finally, this season he finished with 1.33 and a .946 sv% in just 13 games. He is sure to add some competition for next season between Jean-Francois Berube, Anton Forsberg and Collin Delia.
Here is a big save by Lankinen a few seasons back: