Leighton was originally drafted by the Chicago Balckhawks and made his NHL debut with them in the 2002-03 season. He played in eight games that season and 41 the next (splitting time with the Norfolk Admirals. He spent all of 2004-05 in Norfolk.
In 2006-07, Leighten logged in one game for the Nashville Predators and four with the Philadelphia Flyers. He resurfaced again in 2007-08 with the Carolina Hurricanes and played there for 2.5 seasons, before Philly reacquired him via waivers. He played one game in 2010-11 and one in 2012-13 with the Flyers. He joined the Rockford IceHogs last season.
Leighton is a good fit for the IceHogs. He gives the parent club Blackhawks extra insurance, while also serving as a pseudo-coach for the young goalies in Rockford. Of course, he also wants his chance to shine, whether it is a Calder Cup championship in Rockford or a Stanley Cup title in Chicago.
Leighton had a very good night during the 4-3 win. He stopped 33 of 36 shots, including many tough saves.
We had the pleasure of taking part n the post-game media session. That interview is below (courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs). A full recap on the victory can be found at IceHogs.com. You can also read my story for Tru School Sports at Rockford IceHogs Move to 4-3.
Video courtesy of IceHogs TV IceHogs.com
