He played junior hockey for the Winnipeg Rangers from 1964 to 1966, college hockey with the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs from 1966 to 1969, and for the Canadian National Team in 1969-70. The property of the New York Rangers, Newell turned pro with the Omaha Knights in 1969-70 and played minor pro until 1972, when he was traded to the Detroit Red Wings. Newell was called up for three games with the Wings in 1972-73 and another three in 1973-74 (scoring no points either time). He moved to the World Hockey Association's Phoenix Roadrunners in 1974-75, scoring 4 assists in 25 games.