Early in MacDonell's second season in the OHL, he was traded to the North Bay Centennials.  He played with former Rangers: Tyson Kellerman and George Halkidis.  The Centennials needed a tiebreaker to make the postseason where they were promptly dispatched by the Toronto Majors in 4 straight.  MacDonell was unable to play in any games during the post season.

Alex MacDonell seemed to get a fresh start when the Centennials moved to their new home in Saginaw.  Playing on a very inexperienced blueline MacDonell seemed to come into his own.  The ranging defender proved to be a tall task for some of the stronger forwards in the league.  Playing regularly on the absolute worst team in the OHL, MacDonell recorded a respectable plus/minus of -14.  MacDonell also developed more of a nasty edge to his game, more willing to fight, and also willing to bully players infront of his own goalie.

He started his overage season with the Saginaw Spirit, but quickly fell victim to the numbers game despite his +7 in only 7 games.  He joined the Georgetown Raiders on a team studded with former OHLers, including former Rangers' netminder: Matt Harpwood.  An injury to the Rangers' Marcus Smith opened up a spot on the blueline for the Rangers, and Alex MacDonell seemed like an easy fit for the position.  MacDonell brings a moderate amount of offensive talent, as evidenced by his two powerplay goals in Saginaw, however his main assest is his game as a stay at home defender.  MacDonell uses his size well, while he doesn't dominate physically, he does use his reach effectively.  Alex uses, that reach often to poke check those at the Rangers' blueline.