Rockford IceHogs Re-Sign Forward Dylan McLaughlin

(Photo by Todd Reicher via IceHogs Flickr)

The Rockford IceHogs announced today that they re-signed forward Dylan McLaughlin for the 2021-22 season. 

The 25-year-old Center led the IceHogs in scoring during the shortened 2020-21 season with 8 Goals and 14 Assists for 22 Points in 28 Games. His season started off a bit slow, but his two overtime goals in consecutive games led to the IceHogs’ first and second victories over the Grand Rapids Griffins on March 13 and 16. After that, he stepped up his game - becoming one of the team’s most consistent players. 

His contribution to the IceHogs was recognized when he was named “Most Improved Player” at the conclusion of the season. 

Before turning pro, McLaughlin played 4 seasons at Canisius College scoring 59 Goals and 89 Assists  for 147 Points in 152 Games. He was a Hobey Baker Award (Top NCAA Collegiate Hockey player) Finalist in 2017-18.

At the conclusion of his senior year, the IceHogs signed the undrafted free agent to a 2-year AHL deal. He finished out the 2018-19 season with the IceHogs notching 2 Assists in 7 Games. The 2019-20 campaign saw him splitting time between the IceHogs and Indy Fuel (ECHL), and he became a full-time IceHog in 2020-21. So far in his IceHogs career, he has 10 Goals and 21 Assists for 31 Points in 63 Game. 

This is a great signing for the team. With the amount of young players and recent draft picks on Rockford’s roster, McLaughlin was a veteran presence - at the young age of 25 himself - and he led by example with his hard work and determination. His absence would have been felt next season had he not returned. His game has gotten better each year, and I look forward to seeing his progression next season.