Rockford Roundup: Ethan Del Mastro Buries His First Goal

This follows on the heels of a 6-2 win over the Iowa Wild Friday night. While Rockford started out 1-2 on the season, they’ve rebounded well by winning two adding a 3-0 win over Grand Rapids last night. But Del Mastro notched his second point in as many games when he had an assist in Friday’s victory.

Blackhawks Prospect Has Offensive Instincts

Now don’t read that wrong. It’s obviously referring to his ability on the ice and not to be the next Don Rickles.

But Rockford IceHogs head coach Anders Sorensen knows the pedigree that came to him for the season.

“He’s got some offensive instincts,” Sorensen said. “His numbers in juniors were good and I know at the World Junior Championships he played more of a shutdown role.”

Those offensive instincts are something his staff is looking to hone some more on his way to the big club.

“We’re giving him an opportunity to work on his offensive side of the game, at the same time as improving his defensive side of it,” Sorensen said.  “He has a good demeanor and handles things, takes feedback well, and asks very mature questions for his age.”

With two points in five games, that offensive side is certainly coming along early on. Like Sorensen alluded to, Del Mastro’s numbers in junior hockey speak were solid.  In 52 games between Mississauga and Sarnia, he had 59 points (7-52) while adding 10 assists in 16 OHL playoff games.

So while the IceHogs staff will be working to continue that trend, Del Mastro stands as another very intriguing prospect for the Blackhawks as a fourth round pick.

Ethan Del Mastro continues to make a compelling case as a potential steal for the Blackhawks.

IceHogs Overtime: Commesso Posts A Shutout; Anderson Pots Another Goal

After a tough outing against the Chicago Wolves, Drew Commesso bounced back in a loud way with an 18-save shutout in the 3-0 victory over Grand Rapids.

Joey Anderson recorded his fourth goal in as many games as he notched an empty netter to finish off the Griffins.

The IceHogs are off for a week before playing Manitoba on the road next Saturday.