The Chicago Blackhawks cleared some space among their depth forward group on Monday by placing Boris Katchouk on waivers. The team wants Katchouk to play consistently with the AHL Rockford IceHogs, and he'll have that opportunity after clearing NHL waivers on Tuesday.
Katchouk, a former second-round pick, fell out of favor among the Blackhawks' bottom-six forwards over the past week. So far this season, he has four points (two goals, two assists) in 17 games but hasn't suited up since Dec. 3.
Katchouk will now head to Rockford, where he should see an increased role. The Ontario native primarily served in a fourth-line role with the Blackhawks and averaged 12:08 of ice time this season.
"For a guy like that, he needs to skate and play in the games. That's what Rockford is there for," head coach Luke Richardson said of Katchouk's situation. "He definitely was disappointed, but we personally think it's the best thing for him right now."
With Katchouk out of the picture for now, Joey Anderson, MacKenzie Entwistle, Cole Guttman, and Reese Johnson will continue to get looks on the Blackhawks' third and fourth lines.
The Blackhawks are back in action Tuesday with a showdown against the Edmonton Oilers. Puck drop is at 9 PM CT and the game will air on ESPN.
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