Atlanta, GA (Sports Network) - The Atlanta Thrashers have recalled goaltender Kari Lehtonen from a conditioning assignment with the AHL's Chicago Wolves.

Lehtonen has yet to play in the NHL this season after undergoing back surgery on October 30. The procedure removed edges of bone that were applying pressure to nerve roots in his back in two locations. The Finn had previously undergone a back disc surgery on July 20 of last year.

Taken second overall by Atlanta in the 2002 draft, the 26-year-old Lehtonen was 19-22-3 with three shutouts, a 3.06 goals-against average and .911 save percentage in 46 games last season.

In 204 games over five NHL seasons, all with Atlanta, Lehtonen has posted a 94-83-17 record with 14 shutouts and a 2.87 GAA.