Braceful returns to USA Hockey after serving as a scout for the Chicago Blackhawks for the previous two seasons (2021-23), where his duties ranged from amateur scouting across the United States for upcoming NHL Drafts, to pro scouting, including evaluating players who may be involved in future trades or free agent signings for Chicago. 

While with Chicago, Braceful served as the director of player personnel for the 2022 U.S. Under-18 Men’s Select Team at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Red Deer, Alberta, and was on staff of the U.S. Junior Select Team that won the 2022 World Junior A Challenge in Cornwall, Ontario.  

“I am thrilled to be back with USA Hockey and can’t wait to get started in my new role and continue to bring the best young American talent to the NTDP,” said Braceful. “I would like to thank the Chicago Blackhawks organization, particularly Kyle Davidson, Mike Doneghey and Rob Facca for allowing me to grow professionally and work in the National Hockey League.” 

Prior to departing for the NHL, the Detroit native served as assistant director of player personnel for three seasons at the NTDP (2018-21), where his focus was on recruiting and evaluating prospective players for the NTDP.