Thrashers Activate Evander Kane; Reassign Forward Tim Stapleton

[Thrillhouse]

The Atlanta Thrashers have activated forward Evander Kane from Injured Reserve and have reassigned forward Tim Stapleton to the Chicago Wolves (AHL), according to General Manager Rick Dudley.

Kane, 19, has appeared in 40 games this season, recording 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) while ranking third on the team in goals. The 6-2, 195-pound, left wing has earned 52 points (27 goals, 25 assists) in 106 career NHL games with the Thrashers (2009-10 to 2010-11).

The Vancouver, British Columbia, native was selected in the first round, fourth overall, of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Stapleton, 28, has seen action in 11 games with Atlanta this season after originally being signed as an unrestricted free agent on Nov. 30. His NHL totals include three goals in 21 career games with Atlanta (2009-10 to 2010-11) and Toronto (2008-09). Stapleton added a shootout goal in a Thrashers 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on Dec. 30.

The 5-9, 180-pound center has contributed with two points (two assists) in two games with the Wolves this season. Prior to signing with Atlanta he registered 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) in 20 games with the San Antonio Rampage (AHL). The Forest Park, Illinois, native has earned 160 points (66 goals, 94 assists) in 174 career games over four AHL seasons with Portland (2005-06), Toronto (2008-09), Chicago (2009-10 to 2010-11) and San Antonio.