Palmer signs with Rockford

Former Brahmas goalie remains in Chicago Blackhawks system

The Rockford IceHogs announced on Monday that Joe Palmer has been signed to two-way AHL/ECHL contract.

Palmer, 22, competed in his first season of pro hockey with the Brahmas in 2009-10. The Yorkville, New York native appeared in 32 contests, finishing the season 13-10-4 with 2.75 goals against average and a .914 save percentage.

“We are thrilled to have Joe back for a second season as we felt he made great progress last year,” Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard said. “We are very excited to follow his development during this season.”

The goalie played three seasons of NCAA hockey at Ohio State University (NCAA), where he appeared in 71 games and compiled a career record of 25-36-9 to go along with 3.04 goals against average and a .889 save percentage. Palmer also represented the USA in the 2008 IIHF World Championship.

The 6-foot, 1-inch, 205 pound net minder was selected 96th overall (Round 4) by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He participated in his second Blackhawks prospect camp earlier this month

Palmer may see time this season with the Toledo Walleyes, the IceHogs' ECHL affiliate.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith