Chicago Blackhawks set to take advantage of NHL rule implemented by new CBA on these specific players

In the current CBA, which expires at the end of the 2025-26 NHL season, drafted CHL players under 20 years old couldn't play in the AHL.

Their only options before turning 20 were the CHL or the NHL, which was frustrating for many teams in the past, although it made sense for junior teams.

That restriction was lifted in the new CBA. Now, teams can loan one 19-year-old to their AHL team.

PuckPedia reported that there's an effort being made to apply this change for the 2025-26 season instead of waiting for next year.

A new report suggested that the Blackhawks could benefit from that rule, as two young players in their organization could be suited to play in the AHL soon.

If the NHL and the CHL agree to that rule and make it happen for the 2025-26 season, the Blackhawks will certainly consider giving either A.J. Spellacy or Marek Vanacker a shot at making the Rockford IceHogs roster.

Even if both players could benefit from another year in juniors, getting to the AHL earlier may accelerate their development.

A.J. Spellacy had a great training camp last season and could have another great one in the next few weeks. The Hawks' third-round pick in 2024 suffered an injury in last year's playoffs, which makes a return to the OHL with the Windsor Spitfires a serious possibility for him.

The other candidate, Marek Vanacker, drafted 27th overall in 2024, finished last season strong with 11 points in an 11-game playoff run with the Brantford Bulldogs. He has the speed and size to compete at a higher level.

Rushing players' development isn't always a good idea, and since the Blackhawks aren't in a hurry, it would be surprising to see them use that rule this year. The option will still be on the table, at worst by the start of the 2026-27 season, when the new CBA takes effect.