Hagel signs NHL contract with Chicago

The 20-year-old Morinville, Alberta native was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in round six of the 2015 NHL Draft. He became a free agent after going unsigned by the Sabres and passing through the 2018 draft without being picked. He skated at rookie camp earlier this fall with the Montreal Canadiens.

Hagel failed to earn a contract with the Habs, but earned plenty of interest from other teams, according to Rebels GM/head coach Brent Sutter.

There were quite a few teams that were following him,” Sutter noted. “The Blackhawks went above and beyond to get him signed. For Hags it’s outstanding and for our organization it’s great. It’s a credit to Hags.”

Hagel has been on fire to start the 2018-19 WHL season, piling up 28 points (12G, 16A) through 15 games to sit third overall in league scoring.

With an NHL contract secured, the new challenge for Hagel, one he says he’s up to, is to maintain his high level of play through the rest of the current Rebels season.

“I just love to win and when you love to win I think determination and that stuff comes with it.”

The Blackhawks said Hagel, to the delight of the Rebels and their fans, will remain with Red Deer for the rest of this season.

by Troy Gillard (Twitter: @Troy_Gillard)

Hagel signs NHL contract with Chicago

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