It’s hard to keep track of all the transactions in the American Hockey League (AHL), and it’s hard to care about most of them either. So, every Tuesday, Mike Fink looks at the big ones and their impact on the teams involved.
Ville Koivunen Called Up (Again) to Pittsburgh
- The roller coaster ride for Ville Koivunen continues. This weekend alone, he was sent down for a game against the Toronto Marlies and called up again on Tuesday.
- Every season, there’s at least one borderline NHLer who is called up and sent down throughout the season. Koivunen has been that player this time, and the question is whether it’s hurting his development.
Carter Yakemchuk Called Up to Ottawa
- This is a move the Ottawa Senators had to make with Lassi Thomson out long-term.
- Carter Yakemchuk is their top defense prospect but not ready for the NHL, especially with his struggles on the defensive side. So, expect him to play minimally in his first few NHL games.
Rangers Giving Some Kids a Shot
- The New York Rangers are already in their “let the kids play” era, so why not bring in a few more names?
- The Rangers called up Dylan Garand over the weekend, and the longtime AHL goaltender finally made his NHL debut on Sunday.
- The Rangers also called up Adam Sykora, who has been one of the best forwards in Hartford this season with 12 goals.
- The Rangers also sent down Connor Mackey, who played that extra defense role.
Dennis Hildeby Called Up to Toronto
- With the Toronto Maple Leafs battling injuries in the net, it looks like Dennis Hildeby will stay with the NHL team.
- The Marlies are tested once again in the net, and John Gruden, who has already had the team playing above its weight, will have his hands full with the goaltending.
Michael Brandsegg-Nygård Sent Down to Grand Rapids
- The Grand Rapids Griffins get back one of their best forwards, and they can use him. The Griffins have a 3-5 record in March and are no longer the dominant team in the AHL.