McDonell played for his hometown Rebels as a 15 year old. He then played one year with the Cornwall Colts before completing a stellar four year OHL career with the Guelph Storm. His junior career was highlighted by a Memorial cup appearance and a silver medal as part of Team Canada at the 1999 World Junior Hockey Championship. He was taken twice in the NHL draft; by Carolina in the 9th round in 1997 and by Detroit in the 6th round in 1999. His pro career includes 28 games in the ECHL, 304 games in the AHL, 361 games in the Swedish Hockey League, and 32 games in the NHL for the Columbus Blue Jackets between 2002 and 2004.
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