Best Name In NHL Pipeline Signs With Rockford

When 19-year-old Marcel Marcel was drafted, the primary focus of many fans was on his unique name.

However, the forward is out to prove that he has what it takes to be an NHL skater one day, and he seems to be aiming to get his shot as soon as possible. Less than a month after he was drafted in the fifth round, Marcel (or Marcel?) signed a one-year deal with the Rockford IceHogs, where he’ll be under the watchful eye of many Blackhawks staff from day one.

Profile

Marcel is a Czech winger who is primarily unique in his size. He stands at 6-foot-4, 243-pounds with a punishing game. He was selected 42nd overall in the 2022 CHL Import Draft by the Gatineau Olympiques, where he logged 32 points in 52 games. Marcel had an opportunity to be drafted last summer, but wasn’t taken. As prospects are able to be taken until they turn 21, he was finally drafted by Chicago this year. Now, he’ll suit up for Rockford this fall in a sudden change of scenery.

Is All This Legal?

Though recently-drafted junior prospects aren’t typically allowed to immediately join the AHL, the Blackhawks are making use of a stipulation in the rules that allows for an “overager” like Marcel, who’s almost 20, to sign with the team. Even if that wasn’t the case, European skaters are allowed to jump right into the AHL, so Marcel chose to do so.

Benefits

Marcel will hope to find a home in the AHL for the time being, and it’s a great opportunity for the young prospect. The AHL is a big step up from the junior hockey that he otherwise would have played this season, as he’ll face off against talented skaters of all ages while within shouting distance of the NHL. Chicago isn’t exactly worried about throwing him out there too early, as his size allows for him to compete with much older players. He previously played in the Czech professional league, so he shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to high-level talent.

Marcel’s signing is a great move all around. He is a raw prospect, so there’s always a chance he flounders in his new league. However, he’s challenging himself by moving up, and if he succeeds there, he’ll be a huge value for the Blackhawks. After drafting him in the fifth round, Chicago could have the best value in the draft on its hands if Marcel is able to gain traction at the high-level AHL.

The move gets Marcel into professional hockey without kicking in his entry-level contract years, so it truly is a win for everyone without too much downside. The Blackhawks will still have his rights at the end of his one-year deal, and Marcel will get to play alongside high-level talent like Joey Anderson and Gavin Hayes, an opportunity he wouldn’t have gotten in the QMJHL. Plus, if Marcel is able to produce at a high level this season, he’s just steps away from the NHL, and could see playing time in Chicago more quickly than anyone expected.