After a red-hot start to the WHL season, Red Deer Rebels forward Brandon Hagel has an NHL deal.
The 20-year-old Morinville native signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks that runs through the 2020-21 season and has an average annual value of $925,000. He also earned a $92,500 signing bonus with the deal.
“It’s still sinking in. It’s surreal and it’s a dream come true,” said Hagel Tuesday before Rebels practice at Servus Arena.
Will be down at practice later this afternoon to get official confirmation. But @Bhags9 shared on Instagram that he’s signed with the Blackhawks. Great day for the kid. @Rebelshockey #WHL #RDR pic.twitter.com/DOZiN0BDfI
— Byron Hackett (@RDAbyronhackett) October 30, 2018
Hagel was never picked in the WHL Bantam Draft but after a strong start to his career with the Rebels, was selected by Buffalo Sabres in the sixth round, 159th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft.
After the Sabres did not sign him, the winger attended Montreal Canadiens rookie camp earlier this year. Even though no offer came, his belief never waived that he could earn an NHL contract.
“I’ve been through it before,” Hagel said.
“I was never drafted to the Western Hockey League. Drafted by Buffalo, didn’t sign and I think just moving forward, pushing forward and doing what I have to do. I can’t look back. I just looked forward and it worked out for me.”
Rebels GM/head coach Brent Sutter said when Hagel did return from Montreal, his motivation was at another level.
“He’s played extremely well. He had a lot of interest. There were quite a few teams that were following him. 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,” Sutter said.
“His tenacity this year and skill set– his shot has improved a lot. In a lot of ways, he is at a higher level than he was last year.”
Signed on! Forward Brandon Hagel has inked a 3-year entry-level deal that runs through the 2020-21 season ($925,000/AAV).
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 30, 2018
The forward will continue to play for the Red Deer Rebels of the WHL.https://t.co/uZaRk9IynS
The veteran forward has been on a torrid pace this year and is third in the WHL in scoring with 28 points (12G, 16A) through 15 games. His play has helped the Rebels to a 10-4-1-0 record and a third overall in the WHL.
“Obviously, my play has been pretty good this year but it has to keep going,” Hagel said.
“I just love to win and when you love to win I think determination and that stuff comes with it.”
He is expected to stay with the Rebels for the remainder of the WHL season.
Over his WHL career, Hagel has produced 74 goals and 131 assists in 208 games, all in a Red Deer Rebels uniform.
Email sports tips to Byron Hackett
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter