Former Blackhawks Forward Leaves NHL, Signs in Switzerland

Former Chicago Blackhawks forward Brett Connolly has not been able to land an NHL contract for this upcoming season and has decided to sign on with HC Lugano in Switzerland.

Nuovo straniero per il Luganohttps://t.co/SMDipv5oyE

— HC Lugano (@H_C_Lugano) September 5, 2022

The 30-year-old Connolly is a former first-round pick, sixth overall of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He appeared in nine games with Chicago in 2021-22, recording one assists. He was sent down to the Rockford Icedogs of the AHL, where he performed well, collecting 35 points in 37 games. In 536 career NHL games, Connolly tallied 101 goals and 195 points. 

According to reports:Connolly joined the Washington Capitals’ informal skates before training camp at MedStar Capitals Iceplex in late August. However, the 30-year-old told The Athletic’s Tarik El-Bashir that there is no arrangement to come back to Washington and just came to skate while in town. He would later attend Tom Wilson’s wedding.

Photo credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports