Kyle Davidson announces key signings to strengthen team roster
Photo credit: Chicago Sun-Times
Chicago Blackhawks boost roster with key re-signings.
In a significant move aimed at strengthening their lineup, the Chicago Blackhawks have secured continuity by re-signing forwards Marcel Marcel and Jackson Cates. These signings bolster the team's depth as both players return to the Rockford IceHogs for the coming season.
Marcel, a promising 20-year-old forward, is set to begin his second season with the IceHogs in the AHL. After making his debut last November in Manitoba, Marcel showed potential by contributing five assists.
His brief stint with the ECHL's Indy Fuel also added to his growing experience, where he tallied three points across six games.
"We are excited to see the steps that Marcel will take in his development as he enters his second season in the AHL," said IceHogs President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Mark Bernard. "His work ethic and attitude are exceptional, and we are confident that he will continue to build on his game and take steps forward."
Before joining the Blackhawks organization, the Pilsen, Czech Republic native had an impressive run with the Gatineau Olympics in the QMJHL, where he recorded 32 points in 54 games during the 2022-2023 season.
Marcel's international experience includes representing Czechia at the 2023 IIHF World Championships, helping his team to a silver medal with six points in seven games.
Jackson Cates, 26, is also making a return to Rockford. Last season, he scored 25 points in 50 games for the IceHogs. Cates, who originally joined Rockford on a professional tryout offer in December last year, quickly secured a standard player contract by the end of the month.
"We are very excited to have Jackson back with us this year," said IceHogs President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Mark Bernard. "From the moment he joined us last year, he proved to the staff to be a reliable player no matter where he played or what situation it may have been. Off the ice he has all the attributes we look for, and he will continue to be a great mentor for the young prospects."
Cates' career has been diverse, beginning in the Philadelphia Flyers organization and including a stint with the Bridgeport Islanders.
His AHL career totals include 59 points in 164 games, alongside a brief appearance in the NHL where he gathered two points in 20 games. Cates is also a former NCAA champion with the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
For further updates on Jackson Cates and his role with the IceHogs, check here.
These signings represent strategic moves by the Blackhawks to maintain a robust and experienced roster, reflecting their commitment to development and success in the upcoming seasons.
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11 JUILLET | 69 ANSWERS Kyle Davidson announces key signings to strengthen team roster Do you like the Blackhawks new signings? | ||
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