Bryan Bickell just wanted to prove he belonged in the NHL with the Blackhawks. That's what he repeatedly said as he became the player most often recalled from the Rockford IceHogs last season.
Bickell, a 6-4, 223-pound winger, did just that. Bickell and the Hawks have agreed to a three-year, one-way deal worth a total of $1,625,000, a source told the Sun-Times. He will make $500,000 this coming season and $525,000 and $600,000 the following years.
Bickell had three goals, four points and a plus-4 rating in 16 games during the regular season, seeing plenty of time on the top line with Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane. He should help fill a physical void left by the departures of Dustin Byfuglien and Ben Eager.
The 41st overall pick in 2004, Bickell also played in four games in the playoffs, finishing with an assist and a plus-3 rating.
General manager Stan Bowman said earlier this week that the team will announce the signings of Bickell, Jack Skille and defenseman Jordan Hendry soon.
The Sun-Times reported last week the Hawks and Skille agreed upon a one-year deal worth $600,000.
When announcing any sports signing state the age of the player. Very important fact not listed in the article.