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New Blackhawks enforcer Dillon Boucher followed improbable route to NHL: 'I thought about quitting'

RALEIGH, N.C. — Like most people in Rockford, hockey journeyman Dillon Boucher was fast asleep at 11:30 p.m. Monday night.He was awakened by his IceHogs linemate and roommate, Connor Mylymok, pounding on his door."I had no idea what was going…

By Ben Pope · Chicago Sun Times

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 8:38 PM

Key Things to Know

Dillon Boucher reached the NHL with Chicago at age 29 after nearly quitting during his collegiate hockey career.
Boucher went undrafted in 2015 and played junior, Canadian college, ECHL, and AHL hockey before his NHL debut.
His AHL deal was upgraded to a two-way NHL contract on July 1 before earning a call-up.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Chicago Blackhawks enforcer Dillon Boucher made his NHL debut at age 29, completing an improbable journey to the league. After going undrafted in 2015, Boucher spent nearly a decade playing Canadian junior, collegiate, ECHL, and AHL hockey, at one point contemplating retirement before committing to a professional career.

Boucher signed a two-way NHL contract in July and was called up after forward Nick Lardis suffered an injury. Known for his aggressive, physical presence, Boucher registered nine hits in his first two games and engaged in a spirited fight with Tampa Bay's Jeff Viel, providing desired grit for Chicago.

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New Blackhawks enforcer Dillon Boucher followed improbable route to NHL: 'I thought about quitting'

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