Blackhawks recall Gustafsson, add depth to defense

The Chicago Blackhawks recalled defenseman Erik Gustafsson from Rockford of the American Hockey League, the team announced on Wednesday.

Gustafsson will provide depth as the team adjusts to the absence of Duncan Keith. The reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner and two-time Norris Trophy recipient is expected to miss four-to-six weeks following knee surgery.

Gustafsson recorded one assist in eight games with the IceHogs this season. The 23-year-old Swede scored four goals and set up 25 others in 55 contests with Frolunda of the Swedish Hockey League in 2014-15.

A fourth-round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 2012, Gustafsson will serve as the Blackhawks' seventh defenseman heading into their road game versus the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday.