Local boy Marek Vanacker made the Bulldogs faithful proud in 2026 as he jumped into the seat vacated by Nick Lardis on Jake O’Brien’s wing, and drove to a familiar location- the top of the OHL’s goal scoring leader board- with 47 goals and 35 assists for 82 points in 60 games. Blackhawk fans and fantasy managers alike will begin turning out to Jake O’Brien appreciation nights after he helped raise the profiles of two Chicago prospects in as many seasons, but those concerned about Vanacker being a passenger can look to Lardis’ success in the NHL as a positive sign.

Vanacker was starting to find his stride before injuries interrupted a promising draft-plus-one season. His speed and ability to create off the rush remain his calling cards, and he still managed 45 games and a solid playoff showing despite the setback. Now healthy, he’s expected to play a key role for a Brantford team chasing an OHL title. Vanacker’s offensive tools are clear, but his overall play-driving needs work. If he can tighten up his game play that in that area, he has the skill and pace to emerge as a strong long-term fantasy option.

Marek Vanacker had a strong year in Brantford, racking up 24 goals and 42 points in 45 games while playing with pace and bite. He was top five in team scoring being teammate such as Nick Lardis (71 goas on the season) and recently drafted Jake O’Brien (32 goals) and followed it up with 11 points in 11 playoff games, showing up in the moments that matter. His game mixes skill, speed, and compete, and he is starting to take shape as a legit middle-six winger. With his offensive progression and mature approach, Vanacker looks like a solid bet to crack the AHL lineup next season if the Blackhawks feel he is ready.

Vanacker was selected 27th overall, the teams’ third first round selection.

As per Instat, Vanacker led the OHL in scoring chances (321) and was 6th in shots on goal (310), while measuring high in zone entries and breakouts. Vanacker showed to be a contributing force to a well balanced team attack rather than just the benefactor of a solid pivot feeding him. Look for Vanacker to showcase at Blackhawk’s training camp, but with Lardis likely earning a regular NHL role and Roman Kantserov coming to Chicago for the upcoming season, Vanacker will need to bide his time and continue his development in 2026-2027.

Vanacker is another player who took major strides over the course of the season. Vanacker is a good skater and projects as an above average skater at the NHL level. He has a good shot, good hands, and plays a decent two-way game as well. I’m not sure there’s enough high-end hockey sense or playmaking for him to find his way into a top 6 or PP1 at the NHL level, but his ability to score and play off the puck suggest he could be a solid 3rd line option on the wing. Jordan Harris

April Ranking: 56th