Chicago Blackhawks farm system: Most improved Rockford IceHogs players since January

The Rockford IceHogs have been off to a strong start since the beginning of 2024.

Every part of the team has contributed to the outstanding 22-11-3 record following December. There has been no lack of scoring from every line of offense. The back end has been consistent since the departure of Wyatt Kaiser, to Chicago. Goaltending has been consistent throughout 2024, with Jaxson Stauber taking over the franchise record for the longest winning streak by any IceHogs goalie in the history of the franchise, at eight straight wins. Drew Commesso has been just as hot, with a .912 SV% in the new year.

Having a 34-24-7 record thus far, Rockford is third in the Central Division, trailing only Grand Rapids for second by five points. Theoretically, the IceHogs could clinch the second spot, however, they will have to win the last seven games for 14 points, and Grand Rapids would need to lose their last six remaining games.

While second and third place face-off in the second round of the playoffs no matter what (top three Central are excluded from the first round), what's the big deal with second and third? What's at stake, is home-ice advantage. Something the IceHogs would gladly appreciate with the advantage of playing in front of the Rockford faithful.

With IceHogs having seven games remaining in the 2023-2024 regular season, Rockford must bring the New Year's momentum into the playoffs for a deep postseason run for the men in red. For the fans who remember last season, it came down to the final day of the regular season for the Hogs to clinch the final spot in the playoffs. It's a whole new story this year as the Hogs clinched with nine games remaining in the year.

Although it's a well-rounded IceHogs team, let's look into the most improved players since January.