Guerin Slezak commits to RPI
The '06 defenseman will return to the ice after missing a year due to an ACL injury
A few weeks ago, RPI picked up a commitment from ‘06 Defenseman Guerin Slezak to complete their blue line. Slezak is a left shot listed at 5’10” and 187 LBs who has been with Cedar Rapids in the USHL for the last 3 years. He was previously committed to Princeton and originally supposed to spend another year in the USHL due to injury issues. He tore his ACL in the 2025 playoffs and then tore it again in November when he was due to make his return. The likely reason that he is moving on from Princeton is due to the new 5 in 5 rule that starts the eligibility clock at 19 years old and then allows players up to 5 seasons of play. If Slezak went back to junior hockey for another season as an overager, he would only have 3 years of collegiate eligibility. By enrolling now, he gets 4 years.
Slezak missed all of this season due to his injury, but the season prior, he had 3 goals, 8 assists, and 11 points with a +12 rating in 61 games. The past 2 seasons, he also served as the captain of the Roughriders, showcasing his exemplary character and leadership. On the ice, Slezak profiles as a defensive defenseman. He has a strong stick, which allows him to separate players from the puck. His defensive positioning is always very good to prevent passes to the slot area and stop scoring chances. He is a well-balanced skater who keeps a tight gap and forces opponents to the outside. Lastly, he is very safe with the puck and rarely makes mistakes or turns it over. Overall, he will add safe and reliable play in his own end.
Slezak will join the Engineers this fall and slot in as the 9th D to start behind Hilditch and Heroux as he comes back from his injury. He will provide valuable leadership and character in the locker room while being a safe option in a depth role on the blue line. I’m excited to see him at RPI soon. Congratulations to Guerin and his family!