Chicago Blackhawks prospect suspended for one game after raging outburst in OHL game

Vanacker, drafted in the second round in 2024, and who recently made OHL history with his Bulldogs teammates, lost his composure after Friday's final horn and threw a late punch at a referee around Parker Von Richter. The moment escalated fast, and the league responded quickly.

The 18-year-old entered the night with 31 points in 22 games, a strong follow-up to last season's 61-point breakout.

His competitive edge has always been part of his profile, but this moment crossed a clear line.

The clip circulating online shows the referee stepping aside as the players engaged, and unfortunately it's too violent to show.

It ended with Vanacker receiving a game misconduct for unsportsmanlike conduct, setting the stage for Saturday's discipline.

By Saturday morning the Ontario Hockey League announced a one-game suspension for actions on Friday in Brampton, confirming his absence for Brantford's weekend slate.

Fans saw the replay and immediately voiced frustration, noting they love Vanacker's drive but want better judgment when emotions spike in tight games.

Chicago drafted Vanacker for his speed, edge, and finishing touch, and moments like this remind everyone that development includes handling chaos. The Blackhawks monitor every prospect closely, especially ones projected for middle-six roles in the coming years.

Brantford losing the threat in Vanacker for even one game shifts their forward matchups noticeably.

The Blackhawks will not panic over a single lapse, especially since Vanacker rarely takes reckless penalties. He averaged under one minor penalty every four games before this weekend, a stat confirmed by team and league logs.

Chicago's front office usually values emotional competitiveness, and prospects mature through setbacks. This is one of those checkpoints, not a defining mark.