Blackhawks sign G Michael Leighton

[DMelt36]

Just saw it come across on Twitter.

You likely remember Michael Leighton as the goalie who gave up this goal:

What you may not know is this:

Leighton used to be a Hawk.

Drafted by the Hawks in the 6th round of the '99 draft. Spent the 02-03 and 03-04 seasons with the team.

http://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leighmi01.html

 

[DMelt36]

All the Hawks beat writers are indicating that Leighton is more likely to replace Jason LaBarbera than Antti Raanta. LaBarbera was the goalie for Rockford much of last season, so looks like Raanta will stay with the parent club. Although I imagine Leighton would get the call over Simpson/Carruth if injuries required a goalie to be called up.

 

[DMelt36]

Sounds like Leighton had a pretty good year in the KHL. This is from Scott Powers' story at ESPN Chicago

Leighton, 33, spent last season in the KHL with Donbass Donetsk and was 20-15 with a 1.74 goals-against average and .934 save percentage. He is 35-41-14 with a 2.97 goals-against average and .901 save percentage in 105 career NHL games.

 

[Diehardfan]

I didn't care for his game the last time he was here.....this has the stench of Khabibulin all over it.

 

[JZsportsfan]

I would definitely assume Leighton is the guy if Raanta or Crawford miss any time due to injury

 

[Jntg4]

Just saw it come across on Twitter.

You likely remember Michael Leighton as the goalie who gave up this goal:

What you may not know is this:

Leighton used to be a Hawk.

Drafted by the Hawks in the 6th round of the '99 draft. Spent the 02-03 and 03-04 seasons with the team.

http://www.hockey-reference.com/players/l/leighmi01.html

Correct, I did not know that the image was hosted by tripod.

 

[DMelt36]

Correct, I did not know that the image was hosted by tripod.

Haha it's appearing for me again now.

 

[DMelt36]

I didn't care for his game the last time he was here.....this has the stench of Khabibulin all over it.

That was over a decade ago with vastly inferior teammates. I imagine he's quite different now.

That being said, doesn't appear he's expected to be a Hawk this year. It's Rockford for him.

 

[Capt. Serious]

Really wish the Hawks would make Raanta earn the backup job.

 

[Diehardfan]

Really wish the Hawks would make Raanta earn the backup job.

That's probably the reason that Leighton is here....insurance in case Rannta folds his tent. Let's just hope that doesn't happen.