Former Michigan Tech forward Tanner Kero signed an amateur tryout contract with the Chicago Blackhawks‘ AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs for the remainder of the 2014-15 season, the team announced Monday.
Tero agreed to a two-year contract with the Blackhawks on Thursday, which will begin with the 2015-16 season.
Kero, 22, recorded 20 goals and 26 assists for a team-high 46 points in 41 games for the Huskies in his senior season. He led the Western College Hockey Association in points and was named its player of the year. He was one of 10 nominees for the 2015 Hobey Baker as one of the NCAA’s top players.
Here’s a scouting report from SB Nation College Hockey’s Chris Dilks:
As a pro prospect, Kero is a bit undersized, but makes up for that with excellent hockey IQ. His creativity and vision make him an excellent playmaker and he has decent scoring ability to go along with being responsible defensive player.
Before his collegiate career, Kero recorded 37 points in 55 games with the Fargo Force of the United States Hockey League in 2010-11.
Kero will report to the Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate in Rockford on an amateur tryout contract. His contract will go into effect next season like Vincent Hinostroza’s, who signed March 31.
Kero is the fourth college player the Blackhawks have agreed to terms with this season. They also recently signed free agent Kyle Baun (forward, Colgate) and past draft picks Hinostroza (forward, Notre Dame) and Mike Paliotta (defenseman, Vermont).
Acme World Sports, who represents Kero, also is the agency for Blackhawks forward Teuvo Teravainen and defenseman Kimmo Timonen. Blackhawks prospects Alex Broadhurt, Ville Pokka and Hinostroza are also Acme World Sports clients. Kero is the only one to have signed as a free agent.
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