The 2024-25 OHL season saw Marrelli progress in his offensive output, totalling 74 points across 67 regular season games. During the OHL playoffs, his point production increased even higher than the regular season, registering 36 points in only 21 games. Marrelli stepping up his offensive game during the playoffs bodes well for his competitive nature when he matches up against professionals in the AHL next season. Look for Marrelli to play in the top four with powerplay time for the Cleveland Monsters, and should he seize that opportunity and thrive, he might just see his first NHL minutes this season. With that said, it’s more realistic for him to spend a couple of seasons in the AHL honing his defensive habits before making it to the NHL most likely as a bottom pairing defenceman with power play time.

The Columbus Blue Jackets signed Marrelli to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Marrelli was selected 86th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Marrelli is a player who looks the part with good size, athleticism, and movement skills. He thinks the game well and has made the right decisions, even if it means making the easy play. Marrelli’s production was great, but I don’t think he’s as dynamic offensively as the points would suggest. He’s a decent defender, but if he hopes to make the NHL you would want him to improve in that area if he isn’t the most dynamic offensive player. Still, right-shot defensemen with his size and athleticism are coveted by NHL front offices, and if he can take major strides, he could break into the NHL in time.

April Ranking: HM