Misiak’s first real exposure to the AHL has been a step back on the scoresheet, but it fits the profile of where he’s at development wise. Through 27 games in Rockford, the offense hasn’t followed him from junior, and he’s mostly been used in low leverage minutes where structure and pace take priority over creativity. The skill is still there, it just has not shown up consistently shift to shift. That’s a sharp contrast from last season in Erie, where he was a primary driver of offense. At the pro level, the adjustment is about speed and detail. Plays close faster, and Misiak is still learning when to simplify. The long-term upside remains, but this season is about building habits, not chasing production.

Misiak skated in his sophomore OHL season in 2024-2025, playing in 60 games, scoring 23 goals (both identical to his rookie campaign), and 36 assists. Seeing him take the step toward being a point-per-game forward is a welcome sight, though the soon-to-be 21 year old won’t make his paycheque in the NHL as a top-line scorer. Misiak will likely be more of a bottom-six banger who can chip in with the occasional offense. Keep your eye on him, and watch to see if he starts to outplay that projection.

Misiak was selected 55th overall by the Blackhawks.

Martin Misiak is a quick forward with tremendous intensity. His motor is a real standout ability and he uses it in tandem with strong skating mechanics to cover a ton of ice and push the pace of play relentlessly. He scans the ice well and applies very good defensive pressure, which makes him a very effective forechecker. His hands don’t always keep up with his feet and he lacks deception as a puck carrier, but he projects well as a bottom-six energy winger and has the upside to leverage his playmaking and awareness to become a middle-six centre.

Misiak’s skating is very strong, very quick out of a stopped position combined with strong crossovers and polished edgework. These qualities allow Misiak to adjust quickly while constantly moving in all zones (no wasted strides), showing off his ability to anticipate defensive schemes. Misiak is usually F1 on forecheck, isn’t overly physical but doesn’t shy away from contact in the corners or in front of the net. For these reasons, he is being used as the bumper on PP2 and fully understands when he’s under pressure. Misiak was used as a winger but projects as a centerman due to his responsible play in all three zones. His exceptional skating will allow him to play in the middle of the ice in the higher pro levels.