The Chicago Blackhawks have returned Brandon Saad to the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League.

Saad, selected 43rd overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, was held pointless in two games this season. He made the club out of camp but with Blackhawks veterans Viktor Stalberg and Ben Smith set to return from injury and Dan Carcillo returning from suspension, Chicago felt Saad was best developed in Saginaw this season.

The 18-year-old was one of the bigger surprises to come from NHL training camps this season.

In 59 games last season, the Gibsonia, PA native had 27 goals and 56 points.