The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that they have agreed to terms with defenseman Joni Tuulola (YOH-nee, TOO-uh-luh-la) on a two-year contract that begins next season and runs through the 2019-20 season. He will report to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.
Originally drafted by the Blackhawks in the sixth round (181st overall) of the 2015 National Hockey League Draft, Tuulola recorded career highs in goals (7), assists (23) and points (30) with Sport in the Finnish Elite League this past season. His assist and point totals led team defensemen. Spanning four seasons (2013-17), he registered 33 points (10G, 23A) in 141 regular-season games, while also picking up one assist in seven postseason contests with HPK of the Finnish Elite League.
Tuulola, 22, helped Finland to a Gold Medal at the 2016 World Junior Championship, compiling one assist in seven games during the tournament. Tuulola also represented his country at the 2014 U18 World Junior Championship, skating in five games.
Blackhawks agree to terms with Joni Tuulola
