The Chicago Blackhawks have added some physicality to their team with the signing of Jordin Tootoo. The 33-year-old has agreed a 1-year, $750’000 deal with the 6-time Stanley Cup Champions.Tootoo has spent his career in the NHL playing with a bruising, aggressive style that has seen him rack up 982 penalty minutes. The Churchill, Manitoba native was originally drafted in the 4th round (98th overall) of the 2001 draft, with many believing his size, 5’9’’ and 195lbs, would hinder his chances of forging a long career in the league. Tootoo was a bruiser even before he entered the NHL, picking up 874 penalty minutes in just 220 WHL appearances for the Brandon Wheat Kings. The Canadian forward continued this streak throughout his NHL career and holds the distinction of being the Nashville Predators’ all-time leader in penalty minutes.He is ranked eighth all-time in games played for the Predators, with 486. His 725 penalty minutes and 63 major penalties are both records for the Predators. After a nine-year stint in Nashville, Tootoo took his physical style to the Detroit Red Wings and most recently with the New Jersey Devils. In total, Tootoo has earned 63 goals and 158 total points during his NHL career, whilst also carrying a plus/minus rating of -54.Tootoo will now give the Blackhawks some physicality to support the numerous skilled skaters already on the roster, including the likes of Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane.
