Chicago Blackhawks winger Tyler Motte has been reassigned to the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL, the team announced Tuesday. The move presumably signals the impending return of Marian Hossa, who should be ready to come off injured reserve soon following a couple weeks off.
Motte, 21, started his rookie year in strong fashion and found himself on the top line next to Jonathan Toews before long. That move didn’t last, however, and over the past few weeks, he’s struggled in a small year on the fourth line. In 33 games this season, Motte has just four goals and three assists.