ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – The 27th season for the Rockford IceHogs starts Saturday night and they will be led by several returning players and some new promising prospects.
One of those returners is 2024-25 Rookie of the Year Samuel Savoie. He played in all 72 games for Rockford last season with 7 goals and 22 points. His first AHL season was delayed after the forward broke his femur the year prior and recovered in the Canadian Hockey League.
“Enjoy the moment. The first game comes quick right after camp. You’ve got to be prepared and work hard,” said Savoie. “For new guys you don’t know the system, it’s your first year and you don’t know your teammates but bring 100% and go out there and play with a lot of gem.”
Chicago Blackhawks 2023 3rd-round pick Nick Lardis will start his rookie campaign with the IceHogs Saturday. He’s coming off a tremendous season in the CHL where he tallied 71 goals and 117 points in 65 games.
He actually made his AHL debut in Rockford’s 2023-24 regular season finale.
“I want to show my coaches I’m reliable in the defensive zone. A big part of pro hockey is being a good two-way forward so showing that right away,” said Lardis. “It’s going to be a learning experience the first couple of games, but I’m excited for it.”
Rockford’s home opener will be Saturday, October 11 at the BMO Center against the Milwaukee Admirals.
Copyright 2025 WIFR. All rights reserved.