The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that the team has reached an agreement with the forward Marek Vanacker He is on a three-year, entry-level contract ($975,000 cap hit) that runs through the 2026-27 season.

Vanacker, 18, is set to record career-highs in games (68), goals (36), assists (46) and points (82) with the Brantford Bulldogs of the Ontario Hockey League in the 2023-24 season. His 36 goals and 82 points are the most among all Brantford skaters, while his 46 assists are second on the club. He will also record seven points (3G, 4A) in six OHL postseason games in 2023-24. His four assists and seven points are second among all team skaters.