One day after mutually parting ways with assistant coach Don Granato, the Blackhawks announced Thursday that they have removed the interim label from Derek King's title and named him the head coach of the AHL's Rockford IceHogs. Anders Sorensen also received a multi-year extension to remain on the staff as an assistant.
While King may have been a worthy candidate for the vacant assistant coaching position on Jeremy Colliton's staff in Chicago, the Blackhawks like the continuity this gives them within the organization. King is familiar with Colliton's philosophy and has a strong rapport with his players.