The Chicago Blackhawks and first-round draft pick Marek Vanacker agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level contract that runs through the 2026-27 season, the team announced Monday.
The contract carries a $975,000 annual salary cap hit.
Vanacker, 18, was the No. 27 overall pick of June's draft by Chicago.
Playing for the Brantford Bulldogs of the Ontario Hockey League during the 2023-24 season, the forward set regular-season career highs in games played (68), goals (36), assists (46) and points (82). He added seven points (three goals, four assists) in six postseason games in 2023-24.