Blackhawks Recall Forward Dominic Toninato

The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled veteran forward Dominic Toninato from AHL Rockford, marking his first stint with the club since signing.

The Chicago Blackhawks needed their current two-day break after two horrid games on the west coast over the weekend. On Monday, the club made a pair of roster moves, sending forward Landon Slaggert and defenseman Sam Rinzel down to the AHL to join the Rockford IceHogs. Slaggert failed to get consistent chances in the lineup, and Rinzel saw his minutes dwindle as the team’s seventh defenseman because of his struggles. Now, both players will get ample opportunity to play and grow in Rockford.

Originally, the team did not announce any corresponding moves. On Tuesday, the Blackhawks announced that they have recalled veteran forward Dominic Toninato from Rockford. In 24 AHL games this season, Toninato has 17 points (five goals, 12 assists) which is good for third on the team.

Toninato signed a two-year deal with the Blackhawks when free agency opened on July 1, 2025. In an effort to improve the veteran depth of this team, Kyle Davidson quickly pounced on Toninato, who will now get his first chance with the Blackhawks.

With Rinzel’s demotion to the AHL, the Blackhawks may return to a 12 forward, six defensemen model after playing 11/7 for majority of the season. The design was intended to give the young defensemen playing time, but Rinzel’s detour negates the need for such model. This may also mean fans will see more of Sam Lafferty along with Toninato in the lineup starting on Wednesday.

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The veteran has played 189 career NHL games over eight seasons with the Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, and Winnipeg Jets. With 35 career points (13 goals, 22 assists) in that body of work, Toninato is relied on more for his relentless nature and physicality than he is his scoring prowess. That said, in seasons with more than 40 games played, Toninato can provide respectable depth scoring.

What’s On Tap Next?

The Blackhawks meet the New York Rangers at the United Center on Wednesday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT on TNT.