The Chicago Blackhawks have signed Czech free agent defenseman Michal Kempny, according to ESPN's Craig Custance. It's been reported repeatedly during the past few weeks that the two sides were close to a deal and it appears they've bridged the gap coming off the conclusion of the World Championships.
Kempny, 25, scored five goals and 21 points in 59 games for Avangard Omsk in the KHL this past season. He added two goals and two assists in 11 games during the Gagarin Cup playoffs. He tallied two assists during the recent World Championships.
The 6-foot, 194-pound blue liner signed with Avangard after spending the past two seasons with HC Kometa Brno of Czech Extraliga.