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Blackhawks re-sign three

rfd_200.jpgChicago Blackhawks general manager Dale Tallon announced today that the National Hockey League club, parent club of the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs, has re-signed centers Dave Bolland and Jake Dowell, and goalie Antti Niemi.

Dowell, 24, appeared in 75 games with the IceHogs during the 2008-09 campaign. The Eau Claire, Wis., native registered six goals, 14 assists and 20 points during that time.

The alternate captain in 2008-09 for the IceHogs has appeared in 20 career games with the Blackhawks recording two goals and an assist. Dowell also helped the University of Wisconsin win a national championship in 2005-06.

Niemi finished his first stint in North America in 2008-09 appearing in 38 games for the IceHogs. The undrafted goaltender carried an 18-14-3 record with a 2.38 goals against average.

The Finland native made his first NHL start on Mar. 1, 2009, and recorded a 4-2 win over the Los Angeles Kings, stopping 22 shots. He has appeared in three games with the Blackhawks with a 1-1-1 record and a 3.40 goals-against average. Before coming to play in North America, Niemi played for three seasons with the Lahti Pelicans.

A second-round pick in 2004 by Chicago, Bolland finished his first full season with the Blackhawks in 2008-09. He skated in 81 games while tallying 19 goals, 28 assists and 47 points. Before moving up to Chicago, Bolland racked up six goals, four assists and ten points in 16 games with the IceHogs during the 2007-08 season.

In parts of three seasons with Chicago, Bolland has appeared in a total of 121 games, netting 23 goals, 41 assists and 64 points. Bolland was also voted by Blackhawks fans as the Unsung Hero during the 2008-09 campaign.