OHL Writers

Canadian Hockey League Announces Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years

Posted on February 10, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

Fans can now vote from February 10–March 10 at contests.chl.ca/CHL50vote to help shape the final No. 1–50 ranking & enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Kelowna for the Championship Game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, plus access to a special event with CHL/NHL alumni

TORONTO, ON – As part of its 50th anniversary season, the Canadian Hockey League today proudly announced the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years (since 1975–76), recognizing the most influential and accomplished alumni from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) over the past half century (see complete alphabetical list below).

Featuring a remarkable collection of Hockey Hall of Fame inductees alongside former and active NHL players, the Top 50 list celebrates five decades of excellence across the CHL Member Leagues. Spanning every position, the list includes six goaltenders, nine defencemen, and 35 forwards.

Reflecting that three-league foundation, the Top 50 list includes 20 players who appeared in the OHL, 18 in the QMJHL, and 13 in the WHL. In total, 31 of the 50 honourees have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, while 11 remain active in the NHL. The group also features 20 Olympic champions, underscoring the CHL’s legacy on the international stage. Championship pedigree runs throughout the list, as 15 members were crowned Memorial Cup, and 34 went on to win the Stanley Cup — combining for 81 Stanley Cup Championships over their playing careers.

“This list reflects the extraordinary legacy of the CHL and the impact our players have had on the game at every level,” said Dan MacKenzie, President of the CHL. “From generational talents to championship leaders, the Top 50 celebrates five decades of excellence — players who defined eras in the WHL, OHL and QMJHL, and who include Hockey Hall of Famers, legends of the game, and active NHL stars who continue to shine on hockey’s biggest stages.”

Fan Vote Now Open
Alongside today’s unveiling, the CHL has launched a fan vote running from February 10 through March 10, inviting fans to submit their Top 10 from the Top 50 list at contests.chl.ca/CHL50vote. Fan voting will help inform how the CHL ultimately ranks the players 1–50, with the final ranking to be revealed later this spring. Fans who participate will also have a chance to win one (1) trip for two (2) to Kelowna, BC, including transportation, hotel accommodations, and tickets to the Championship Game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, plus access to a special event featuring CHL/NHL alumni from the CHL’s Top 50 list.

Top 50 CHL Players of the Last 50 Years (Alphabetical)
Bedard, Connor / Forward (WHL, Regina Pats – 2020-23) / (Chicago Blackhawks – 2023-Present)
Bergeron, Patrice / Forward (QMJHL, Acadie-Bathurst Titan – 2001-03) / (Boston Bruins – 2003-2023)
Bossy, Mike / Forward (QMJHL, Laval National – 1972-1977) / (New York Islanders – 1977-1987)
Bourque, Ray / Defenceman (QMJHL, Trois-Rivières Draveurs & Sorel/Verdun Blackhawks – 1976-79) / (Boston Bruins & Colorado Avalanche – 1979-2001)
Brodeur, Martin / Goaltender (QMJHL, St. Hyacinthe Laser – 1989-92) / (New Jersey Devils & St. Louis Blues – 1991-2015)
Carbonneau, Guy / Forward (QMJHL, Chicoutimi Saguenéens – 1976-80) / (Montréal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues & Dallas Stars – 1980-2000)
Coffey, Paul / Defenceman (OHL, Kingston Canadians, Soo Greyhounds & Kitchener Rangers) / (Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers, Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Carolina Hurricanes & Boston Bruins – 1980-2001)
Crosby, Sidney / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 2003-05) / (Pittsburgh Penguins – 2005-Present)
Doughty, Drew / Defenceman (OHL, Guelph Storm – 2005-08) / (Los Angeles Kings – 2008-Present)
Draisaitl, Leon / Forward (WHL, Prince Albert Raiders & Kelowna Rockets – 2012-15) / (Edmonton Oilers – 2015-Present)
Ferraro, Ray / Forward (WHL, Portland Winterhawks & Brandon Wheat Kings – 1982-84) / (Hartford Whalers, New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, Atlanta Thrashers, St. Louis Blues – 1984-2002)
Fleury, Marc-André / Goaltender (QMJHL, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles – 2000-04) / (Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks & Minnesota Wild – 2003-25)
Francis, Ron / Forward (OHL, Soo Greyhounds – 1980-82) / (Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes & Toronto Maple Leafs – 1981-2004)
Fuhr, Grant / Goaltender (WHL, Victoria Cougars – 1979-81) / (Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues & Calgary Flames – 1981-2000)
Gilmour, Doug / Forward (OHL & QMJHL, Cornwall Royals – 1980-83) / (St. Louis Blues, Calgary Flames, Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres & Montreal Canadiens – 1983-2003)
Gretzky, Wayne / Forward (OHL, Peterborough Petes & Soo Greyhounds – 1977-78) / (Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues & New York Rangers – 1979-99)
Hall, Taylor / Forward (OHL, Windsor Spitfires – 2007-10) / (Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Arizona Coyotes, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks & Carolina Hurricanes – 2010-Present)
Hawerchuk, Dale / Forward (QMJHL – 1979-80, Cornwall Royals) / (Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, St. Louis Blues & Philadelphia Flyers – 1981-97)
Iginla, Jarome / Forward (WHL, Kamloops Blazers – 1993-96) / (Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche & Los Angeles Kings – 1995-2017)
Kane, Patrick / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 2006-07) / (Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers & Detroit Red Wings – 2007-Present)
Lafontaine, Pat / Forward (QMJHL, Verdun Juniors – 1982-83) / (New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres & New York Rangers – 1983-98)
Lecavalier, Vincent / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 1996-98) / (Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers & Los Angeles Kings – 1998-2016)
Lemieux, Mario / Forward (QMJHL, Laval Voisins – 1981-84) / (Pittsburgh Penguins – 1984-97 & 2000-06)
Lindros, Eric / Forward (OHL, Oshawa Generals – 1989-92) / (Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs & Dallas Stars – 1992-2007)
Luongo, Roberto / Goaltender (QMJHL, Val-d’Or Foreurs & Acadie-Bathurst Titan – 1995-99) / (New York Islanders, Florida Panthers & Vancouver Canucks – 1999-2019)
MacInnis, Al / Defenceman (OHL, Kitchener Rangers – 1980-83) / (Calgary Flames & St. Louis Blues – 1981-2004)
MacKinnon, Nathan / Forward (QMJHL, Halifax Mooseheads – 2011-13) / (Colorado Avalanche – 2013-Present)
McDavid, Connor / Forward (OHL, Erie Otters – 2012-15) / (Edmonton Oilers – 2015-Present)
Modano, Mike / Forward (WHL, Prince Albert Raiders – 1986-89) / (Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars & Detroit Red Wings – 1988-2011)
Murphy, Larry / Defenceman (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1978-80) / (Los Angeles Kings, Washington Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs & Detroit Red Wings – 1980-2001)
Neely, Cam / Forward (WHL, Portland Winterhawks – 1982-84) / (Vancouver Canucks & Boston Bruins – 1983-96)
Niedermayer, Scott / Defenceman (WHL, Kamloops Blazers – 1989-92) / (New Jersey Devils & Anaheim Ducks – 1991-2010)
Perry, Corey / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 2001-05) / (Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers & Los Angeles Kings – 2006-Present)
Price, Carey / Goaltender (WHL, Tri-City Americans – 2002-07) / (Montreal Canadiens – 2007-22)
Pronger, Chris – Defenceman (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1991-93) / (Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, & Philadelphia Flyers – 1993-2012)
Propp, Brian / Forward (WHL, Brandon Wheat Kings – 1976-79) / (Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars & Hartford Whalers – 1979-94)
Recchi, Mark / Forward (WHL, New Westminster Bruins & Kamloops Blazers – 1984-88) / (Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Tampa Bay Lightning & Boston Bruins – 1989-2011)
Richards, Brad / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 1997-2000) / (Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks & Detroit Red Wings – 2000-16)
Robitaille, Luc / Forward (QMJHL, Hull Olympiques – 1983-86) / (Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers & Detroit Red Wings – 1986-2006)
Roy, Patrick / Goaltender (QMJHL, Granby Bisons – 1982-85) / (Montreal Canadiens & Colorado Avalanche – 1984-2003)
Sakic, Joe / Forward (WHL, Lethbridge/Swift Current Broncos – 1985-88) / (Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche – 1988-2009)
Savard, Denis / Forward (QMJHL, Montreal Juniors – 1977-80) / (Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens & Tampa Bay Lightning – 1980-97)
Shanahan, Brendan / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 1985-87) / (New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Hartford Whalers, Detroit Red Wings & New York Rangers – 1987-2009)
Smith, Bobby / Forward (OHL, Ottawa 67’s – 1975-78) / (Minnesota North Stars & Montreal Canadiens – 1978-93)
Stamkos, Steven / Forward (OHL, Sarnia Sting – 2006-08) / (Tampa Bay Lightning & Nashville Predators – 2008-Present)
Stevens, Scott / Defenceman (OHL, Kitchener Rangers – 1980-82) / (Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues & New Jersey Devils – 1982-2004)
Tavares, John / Forward (OHL, Oshawa Generals & London Knights – 2005-09) / (New York Islanders & Toronto Maple Leafs – 2009-Present)
Thornton, Joe / Forward (OHL, Soo Greyhounds – 1995-97) / (Boston Bruins, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers – 1997-2022)
Weber, Shea / Defenceman (WHL, Kelowna Rockets – 2001-05) / (Nashville Predators & Montreal Canadiens – 2005-21)
Yzerman, Steve / Forward (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1981-83) / (Detroit Red Wings – 1983-2006)

The CHL’s Top 50 Players were selected by a panel of more than 40 media members who submitted ranked 1–50 ballots guided by a weighted evaluation framework designed to ensure consistency across eras. Panelists considered a player’s impact beyond the CHL — including NHL and international success, major awards and championships, and Hall of Fame recognition — alongside on-ice achievement in the Member Leagues, reflecting what players accomplished during their time in the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL through production, individual honours, team success, and sustained dominance. Selections also accounted for historical significance, recognizing milestones, era-defining influence, generational impact, and lasting contributions to CHL history.

To be eligible, players must have competed in at least one full season in the WHL, OHL, or QMJHL during the CHL’s 50-year history beginning in 1975–76; for players who competed in 1975–76 and also played prior to that season, their entire CHL career was considered when evaluating on-ice accomplishments.

OHL CUP TOP 10 RANKINGS – WEEK 11:JR. CANADIENS CLIMB TO SECOND, QUINTE RETURNS TO LIST

Posted on February 10, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Tuesday, February 10, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced the 11th edition of the OHL Cup Top-10 Rankings for the 2025-26 season, with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens back up to second on the list while the Quinte Red Devils return to the Top 10 for the first time since December 2nd. The ALLIANCE London Jr. Knights also rose two spots, up to fifth on this week’s instalment.

The weekly rankings, determined by a panel of scouts from OHL member teams, highlight the top teams competing for an opportunity to play in the 2026 OHL Cup hosted by the GTHL, which will showcase 25 teams featuring talent eligible for the OHL Priority Selection that will take place at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston on June 12-13, 2026.

OHL Cup Top-10 Rankings (Week 11)

RANK	TEAM	LAST WEEK	WEEKS RANKED
1	Little Caesars (USA AAA)	1	11
2	Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)	4	11
3	HoneyBaked (USA AAA)	2	10
4	Upper Canada College (Ontario Prep)	3	11
5	London Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE)	7	11
6	Hill Academy (Ontario Prep)	5	11
7	Vaughan Kings (GTHL)	8	9
8	Mississauga Senators (GTHL)	6	8
9	Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)	10	8
10	Quinte Red Devils (OMHA)	–	3

Honourable Mentions: Barrie Colts (OMHA), York-Simcoe Express (OMHA), Credit River Capitals (OMHA), Markham Majors (GTHL), Ajax-Pickering Raiders (OMHA)

The 2026 OHL Cup will kick off with four wild card play-in matchups on Monday, March 30, 2026. All games will be held at Scotiabank Pond in Toronto before the Championship Final moves to the historic Mattamy Athletic Centre on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 2:00pm.

The OHL Cup has established itself as a premier development tournament, serving as a critical showcase for the next generation of hockey talent. More than 200 OHL Cup graduates have advanced to play in the OHL en route to the National Hockey League (NHL), including more than 110 players currently on NHL rosters.

Rankings will be updated weekly throughout the season as teams compete for positioning ahead of the 2026 OHL Cup tournament. More information on tournament qualification can be found here.

2025-26 CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott: Everett remains on top, Moncton climbs to No. 3 as Chicoutimi, Ottawa, and Barrie continue their rise

Posted on February 10, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) today unveiled its Week 20 edition of the CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott for the 2025-26 season.

Everett holds No. 1 for a second straight week (fourth time atop the list) behind a CHL-leading 41 wins and a .850 points percentage, coming off home victories over Kamloops and Victoria, powered by Carter Bear (11 points in his last four games) and Matias Vanhanen, who combined on Bear’s second hat trick of the season. At No. 2 for the third time in four weeks, Prince Albert remains relentless at 22-3-1-0 in its last 26 games — already the first WHL club to clinch a playoff spot — with Braeden Cootes posting seven points in three games to cap a strong week. And climbing to a season-best No. 3, Moncton outscored opponents 15-6 in a pair of road wins while locking in its postseason berth, continuing a dominant run since early November (31-4-0-1) fueled by Caleb Desnoyers and Teddy Mutryn, who each produced six points in two outings.

Just behind that top tier, three clubs are trending sharply upward, led by the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, Ottawa 67’s, and Barrie Colts. Chicoutimi moved up to No. 4 after a flawless 2-0 week highlighted by a statement road win that snapped the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada’s surge, with Ottawa Senators prospect Lucas Beckman shining early in his tenure as the Saguenéens keep pressure on the QMJHL leaders. Ottawa vaulted two spots back to No. 6 with a perfect week that included a 5-1 win over the Brantford Bulldogs and a one-goal decision over the Owen Sound Attack on a milestone day for head coach Dave Cameron, while Ryder Fetterolf continued to anchor the league’s stingiest goaltending numbers as the 67’s sit in striking distance atop the Ontario Hockey League. Meanwhile, Barrie climbed to a season-best No. 7 on the strength of five straight wins and a CHL-best 16-1-1-0 post-holiday surge, driven in part by trade-deadline addition Ben Willmott — and now the Colts get a measuring-stick opportunity with a head-to-head visit to Ottawa over the long weekend.

For the 2025-26 season, fans can catch every game with FloHockey streaming the OHL and QMJHL, and Victory+ serving as the home of the WHL. FloHockey features full regular-season and playoff coverage for the OHL and QMJHL, while Victory+ offers free access to every WHL game along with playoffs and more.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 20
1. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
2. Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
3. Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
4. Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
5. Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
6. Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
7. Barrie Colts (OHL)
8. Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
9 Penticton Vees (WHL)
10. Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2025-26-chl-top-10-rankings-week-20.

The next rankings will be released the week of February 16, following the 21st week of regular-season action in the CHL’s Member Leagues.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR FEB. 2-8, 2026

Posted on February 9, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, February 9, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Colts’ Ben Wilmott Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Barrie Colts forward Ben Wilmott is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording five goals, two assists and a shootout game-winner over three victories.

Wilmott got involved in all three Colts victories last week, starting with two goals and an assist in Friday’s 4-1 road win over Brampton. He followed-up that first star performance on Saturday at home to North Bay, tying the game at two with 1:14 remaining in the third period before scoring the deciding marker in the fifth round of a shootout as Barrie won 3-2. Wilmott finished off the week with two goals and an assist on Sunday in North Bay as the Colts beat the Battalion 7-4.

A 19-year-old from Long Valley, NJ, Wilmott has been one of the OHL trade deadline’s top additions, producing 21 points (12-9–21) in 14 games since being acquired from the London Knights. The 6-foot-1, 190Ib. centre has 55 points (24-31–55) over 51 games with a plus-26 rating in his first OHL season after spending the past two seasons in the USHL. He’s ranked 165th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the 2026 NHL Draft. Wilmott is committed to Ohio State University (NCAA).

2025-26 Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 22-28: Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 6-12: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 13-19: Adam Benak (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 20-26: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Harry Nansi (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 3-9: Alex Kostov (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 10-16: Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)
Dec. 1-7: Alex McLean (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 8-14: Christopher Brown (Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 15-21: Alex Pharand (Sudbury Wolves)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Egor Barabanov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 5-11: Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts)
Jan. 12-18: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 19-25: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Kevin He (Flint Firebirds)
Feb. 2-8: Ben Wilmott (Barrie Colts)

Petes’ Easton Rye Named Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week

Easton Rye of the Peterborough Petes is the Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week for the third time this season, going 2-0 with a 1.45 goals-against average and .951 save percentage.

Rye helped the Petes skate to home wins over Owen Sound and Sudbury, stopping 36-of-38 in Thursday’s 3-2 overtime win over the Attack that featured a Kieron Walton hat-trick. Rye made 22 more saves on Saturday as the Petes defeated the Sudbury Wolves 4-1, giving Rye a league best-tying 28 victories on the season.

A 19-year-old from Peterborough, Rye is 28-11-1-1 with a 2.71 goals-against average, .917 save percentage and two shutouts over 41 games. His 1,203 saves are the second-most in the OHL this season. Rye was Peterborough’s fifth round (89th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection and has played to a career mark of 39-29-3-2 with a 3.34 goals-against average and .904 save percentage over 79 career regular season games in maroon and white. He is committed to Bentley University (NCAA).

2025-26 Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Jason Schaubel (Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 22-28: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
Oct. 6-12: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 13-19: Patrick Quinlan (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 20-26: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights)
Nov. 3-9: Matthew Minchak (Kingston Frontenacs)
Nov. 10-16: Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
Nov. 17-23: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 24-30: Zach Bowen (Brampton Steelheads)
Dec. 1-7: Vladislav Yermolenko (Niagara IceDogs)
Dec. 8-14: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Dec. 15-21: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)
Jan. 5-11: Zachary Jovanovski (Guelph Storm)
Jan. 12-18: Matthew Humphries (Oshawa Generals)
Jan. 19-25: Carter George (Soo Greyhounds)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Zach Bowen (Brampton Steelheads)
Feb. 2-8: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)

Sting’s Kale Osipenko Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Kale Osipenko of the Sarnia Sting is the OHL Rookie of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.95 goals-against average and .943 save percentage.

Osipenko helped the Sting win a pair of important road matchups in their hunt for a spot in the 2026 OHL Playoffs. He made 42 saves on Friday night in Oshawa, helping the Sting overcome the Generals 5-3, and followed-up with 24 saves on Saturday in Brampton as the Sting defeated the Steelheads 2-1 on a Jordan Bax overtime-winner.

A 17-year-old from Renfew, ON, Osipenko is 4-3 with a 2.77 goals-against average and .910 save percentage through seven games since being called-up from his hometown Wolves of the CCHL. The former seventh round (126th overall) pick by the Sting in 2024 is 11-5-1 with a 2.41 goals-against average and .930 save percentage in 18 games with Renfew this season. He represented Canada East at the World Junior A Challenge earlier this season, posting a 2.39 goals-against average and .931 save percentage through four outings.

2025-26 OHL Rookie of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Sept. 22-28: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 6-12: Jaxon Cover (London Knights)
Oct. 13-19: Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 20-26: Jaakko Wycisk (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 3-9: Easton Walos (Sarnia Sting)
Nov. 10-16: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 17-23: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit)
Dec. 1-7: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Dec. 8-14: Robin Kuzma (Kingston Frontenacs
Dec. 15-21: Caleb Mitchell (London Knights)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 5-11: Charlie Murata (Flint Firebirds)
Jan. 12-18: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 19-25: Ryerson Edgar (Niagara IceDogs)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Keaton Ardagh (Brampton Steelheads)
Feb. 2-8: Kale Osipenko (Sarnia Sting)

Spitfires Prospect Jake Windbiel Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Windsor Spitfires prospect Jake Windbiel of the LaSalle Vipers is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average, .971 save percentage and one shutout.

Windbiel was at his best on Thursday night, turning in a 40-save shutout as LaSalle defeated the visiting Komoka Kings 7-0. He turned aside 26-of-28 shots on Saturday as the Vipers skated to a 5-2 road win over the St. Marys Lincolns, pulling back above .500 with a record of 20-19-3-0.

Turning 18 on Wednesday, Windbiel hails from Elk Grove Village, Illinois and is 14-9-2-0 with a 3.64 goals-against average and .899 save percentage with two shutouts over 29 games in his second year with the Vipers. The 6-foot-4, 215Ib. netminder was Windsor’s seventh round (124th overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Chicago Mission AAA program. Windbiel has played to a career mark of 31-22-2-0 with a 3.58 goals-against average and .899 save percentage over 61 regular season games with LaSalle. He won his OHL debut on Dec. 29, 2024 at Sault Ste. Marie, making 32 saves in a 10-6 victory.

2025-26 GOHL Prospect of the Week
Sept. 10-21: Brendan Gerber (Elmira Sugar Kings/London Knights)
Sept. 22-28: Alex Forrest (Cambridge RedHawks/Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Liam Edgcumbe (Pelham Panthers/Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 6-12: Caden Bell (St. Catharines Falcons/Niagara IceDogs)
Oct. 13-19: Reed Straus (Elmira Sugar Kings/Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 20-26: Gensen Geldart (Chatham Maroons/Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Lyndon Cabral (Listowel Cyclones/Erie Otters)
Nov. 2-9: Jake Ritson (Strathroy Rockets/London Knights)
Nov. 10-16: Ulysses Lombardi (Waterloo Siskins/Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Alex Campeau (London Nationals/London Knights)
Nov. 24-30: William Camputaro (St. Thomas Stars/Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 1-7: Ian Robinson (Port Colborne Sailors/Kitchener Rangers)
Dec. 8-14: Kalyn McQueen (Cambridge RedHawks/Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 15-21: Alexander Lisi (Chatham Maroons/Owen Sound Attack)
Dec. 29- Jan. 4: James Elliott (St. Catharines Falcons/Soo Greyhounds)
Jan. 5-11: Vaughn Barr (St. Marys Lincolns/Erie Otters)
Jan. 12-18: David Buchman (Brantford Titans/Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 19-25: Myles Dunn (St. Thomas Stars/Sarnia Sting)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Sammy DiBlasi (Chatham Maroons/Saginaw Spirit)
Feb. 2-8: Jake Windbiel (LaSalle Vipers/Windsor Spitfires)

2025-26 CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott: Silvertips reclaim No. 1 as Raiders, Bulldogs round out top three; Wildcats, Tigers, and Rangers surge

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) today unveiled its Week 19 edition of the CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott for the 2025-26 season.

The Everett Silvertips (39-6-2-1) surged to No. 1 for the first time since before the holiday break after a perfect 3-0 week that stretched their win streak to seven and kept them pacing the CHL in wins and points percentage. The Prince Albert Raiders (37-7-4-0) settled in at No. 2 after winning two of three, continuing to trail only Everett across the Western Hockey League and CHL in key team measures while remaining one of just two clubs above the .800 mark. Meanwhile, the Brantford Bulldogs (34-7-6-1) climbed back to No. 3 behind an 11-game point streak (9-0-2-0) that has fueled one of the CHL’s most consistent seasons, highlighted last week by a pair of home wins and continued top-of-the-table form in the Ontario Hockey League.

Further down the list, several clubs continued to trend upward, led by the Moncton Wildcats (35-8-2-1), who pushed their win streak to seven and climbed to a season-best No. 4 while maintaining their grip on the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League’s top spot. The Medicine Hat Tigers (34-8-3-3) also kept climbing, jumping into sixth after two home wins and continuing a torrid run since early November, powered by the high-end production of twins Liam Ruck and Markus Ruck. Rounding out the risers, the Kitchener Rangers (32-11-4-1) returned to the CHL Top 10 for the first time in 11 weeks at No. 10, riding a 12-game point streak and continuing a post–mid-December surge that has made them one of the OHL’s hottest teams.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 19
1. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
2. Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
3. Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
4. Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
5. Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
6. Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
7. Penticton Vees (WHL)
8. Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
9. Barrie Colts (OHL)
10. Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2025-26-chl-top-10-rankings-week-19.

The next rankings will be released the week of February 9, following the 20th week of regular-season action in the CHL’s Member Leagues.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR JAN. 26-FEB. 1, 2026

Posted on February 2, 2026February 2, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, February 2, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Week for regular season games ending Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Firebirds’ Kevin He Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Winnipeg Jets prospect Kevin He is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording three goals, three assists and six points over a pair of contests.

He scored in Friday’s game against visiting Barrie, one the Firebirds let get away late in a 6-5 overtime loss. Saturday brought a season-high five-point showing including his third shorthanded goal of the season as part of a two goal, three assist effort in a 6-3 Firebirds win over visiting Sarnia. The five-point effort gave He 20 points (8-12–20) over 13 games since being acquired by Flint on Dec. 28th.

A 19-year-old from Nobleton, ON, He has produced 51 points (22-29–51) over 41 games in this, his fourth OHL season. The 6-foot, 182Ib. left-wing owns career totals that include 110 goals, 103 assists and 213 points over 233 career regular season games since being Niagara’s second round (25th overall) pick in 2022. He joins Windsor’s Liam Greentree as the only active OHL player with more than 100 career goals and 100 career assists. He, who was born in Beijing, China, was chosen by the Winnipeg Jets in the fourth round (109th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, becoming the first Chinese-born player ever selected in the NHL Draft. The Jets inked him to a three-year entry-level NHL contract on Dec. 17, 2024.

Steelheads’ Zach Bowen Named Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week

Zach Bowen of the Brampton Steelheads is the Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season, helping the Steelheads secure five of a possible six points with a 1.99 goals-against average and .934 save percentage while turning aside 85 shots.

Bowen made 21 saves on Friday night in Guelph, backstopping the Steelheads to a 4-1 win over the Storm. He continued to help Brampton’s pursuit of a playoff spot on Saturday at home to Oshawa, stopping 31-of-32 in a 2-1 win over the Generals. Bowen wrapped-up the weekend with a 33-save performance in Sunday’s 4-3 overtime road loss to the Generals, helping the Trout earn a point despite their being outshot 37-24.

A 20-year-old from Kanata, ON, Bowen is 14-19-2-1 with a 3.35 goals-against average and .891 save percentage over 36 games in his fourth OHL season. Formerly London’s fourth round (77th overall) pick in 2022, he’s played to a career mark of 47-57-7-4 with a 3.59 goals-against average and .894 save percentage with two shutouts in 124 career regular season games between London, Peterborough and Brampton. Bowen was voted to the OHL’s first all-rookie team with London in 2022-23, the same season he claimed the F.W. Dinty Moore Trophy for the league’s lowest rookie goals-against average.

Steelheads’ Keaton Ardagh Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Brampton Steelheads forward Keaton Ardagh is the OHL Rookie of the Week, scoring three times while adding an assist as the Steelheads collected five of a possible six points.

Ardagh started the weekend with his third multi-goal performance of the season, scoring twice as Brampton defeated the Guelph Storm 4-1 on the road. He picked up a primary assist on a Nathan Amidovski goal in Saturday’s 2-1 win over visiting Oshawa, and scored his 11th goal of the season on Sunday as the Trout fell 4-3 on the road in Oshawa.

A 16-year-old from Clarington, ON, Ardagh has posted 15 points (11-4–15) and has yet to take a penalty through 45 games in his first OHL season after being chosen by the Steelheads in the first round (15th overall) from the OHL Cup champion Toronto Jr. Canadiens AAA program. The 6-foot, 163Ib. right-wing recorded 45 points (24-21–45) over 28 games in his U16 AAA campaign, adding six points (3-3–6) over seven outings at the OHL Cup.

Spirit Prospect Sammy DiBlasi Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Saginaw Spirit prospect Sammy DiBlasi of the Chatham Maroons is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .959 save percentage.

DiBlasi turned away 13 shots on Friday in Sarnia as the Maroons skated to a lopsided win over the Legionnaires. He came out with a strong performance back at home on Saturday, turning aside 34-of-35 shots in a 6-1 win over the Strathroy Rockets.

A freshly-turned 19-year-old from Saginaw, DiBlasi is 14-4-1-2 with a 2.98 goals-against average and .912 save percentage over 25 games in his second season with Chatham. Saginaw’s ninth round (176th overall) pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, DiBlasi appeared in two games with the Spirit in 2024-25. He owns a career mark of 26-6-4-2 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .916 save percentage over 42 career GOHL contests with Chatham.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on February 2, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, February 2, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Month for January.

Player of the Month – Jack Pridham (Kitchener Rangers) – 11 GP, 8G, 12A, 20 PTS., +14
Leading the OHL in scoring during the month of January, Chicago Blackhawks prospect Jack Pridham of the Kitchener Rangers has been named OHL Player of the Month after recording 20 points (8-12–20) over 11 games. Pridham recorded at least one point in 10 of his 11 January outings, highlighted by six multi-point performances as the Rangers surged to the top of the Western Conference standings.

Pridham’s most notable effort came on Jan. 15th when he recorded a hat-trick and an assist in a Rangers victory over the Saginaw Spirit. He now leads Kitchener in scoring this season with 62 points (31-31–62) over 46 games.

A 20-year-old overage forward from Stouffville, ON, Pridham was selected in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks. He is in his fourth OHL season and has played a key role in Kitchener finishing January as the number one seed in the Western Conference. Selected by the Rangers in the ninth round (177th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Pridham has 116 points (58-58–116) over 94 regular season games with Kitchener.

Defenceman of the Month – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts) –-11 GP, 3G, 11A, 14 PTS., +13
New York Islanders prospect Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts has been named OHL Defenceman of the Month after producing 14 points (3-11–14) over 11 games in January while posting a plus-13 rating. He recorded four multi-point performances during the month and continues to rank among the league’s most productive blueliners.

Through 38 games this season, Aitcheson ranks third among OHL defencemen in scoring with 46 points (22-24–46), while his 22 goals lead all defenders across the league. His plus-32 rating stands as the OHL’s second-best, while he is also tied for third in team scoring for the Colts.

A 19-year-old from Toronto, ON, Aitcheson was selected 17th overall by the New York Islanders in the first round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles. His 57 career goals are the most by a blueliner in Barrie Colts franchise history. His 147 points (57-90–147) are 11 shy of Brandt Clarke, who holds the Colts franchise mark for career points by a defenceman. Aitcheson won a bronze medal with Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.

Goaltender of the Month – Carter George (Soo Greyhounds) – 7 GP, 5-1-0-1, 1.71 GAA, .925 SV%, 2 SO, 147 SV
Los Angeles Kings prospect Carter George of the Soo Greyhounds has been named OHL Goaltender of the Month after posting a 5-1-0-1 record in January, accompanied by a league-best 1.71 goals-against average and .925 save percentage over more than 400 minutes of action. He was the only OHL goaltender to record two shutouts during the month and the only netminder to play over 400 minutes with a save percentage above .925.

George also made history on Jan. 21st, scoring his second career goal in the Ontario Hockey League. With the tally, he became the first goaltender in OHL history to score two goals, and just the second goaltender in CHL history to accomplish the feat, joining François Brassard of the QMJHL. The goal also marked the second by a goaltender in Soo Greyhounds franchise history.

Acquired from the Owen Sound Attack on Jan. 7th, George began his Greyhounds tenure with five straight wins, two shutouts, and a goal in his first five games with the club. A 19-year-old from Thunder Bay, ON, George is 15-10-0-4 on the season with a 2.72 goals-against average and .906 save percentage through 30 games. Now in his fourth OHL season, George owns a career record of 62-56-9-10 with a 3.14 goals-against average and .909 save percentage with seven shutouts over 143 regular season contests. He was selected in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. Internationally, George has represented Canada at the World Juniors in back-to-back years, winning a bronze medal in early January in Minnesota.

Rookie of the Month – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) – 12 GP, 8G, 11A, 19 PTS., +3
NHL Draft eligible Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Klepov has been named OHL Rookie of the Month for January after leading all rookies with 19 points (8-11–19) over 12 games. Klepov finished the month six points clear of the next closest rookie scorer, recording five multi-point performances and points in nine of his 12 outings.

The 17-year-old posted two four-point games during the month, doing so on Jan. 4th and again on Jan. 17th as the Spirit continued to gain traction in the Western Conference. He was also a standout at the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game on Jan. 14th in Peterborough, earning Connor McDavid 97 Award MVP honours with his goal and two assists for the victorious Western Conference.

A native of Deerfield Beach, FL, Klepov is playing his first OHL season after being selected by Saginaw in the first round (35th overall) of the 2025 CHL Import Draft. He is a top prospect eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo and earns Rookie of the Month honours for the second time this season, having also received the award in October. Klepov, who won gold with the United States at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, is currently the 16th ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings.

2025-26 OHL Performers of the Month

Player of the Month:
January – Jack Pridham (Kitchener Rangers)
December – Riley Patterson (Niagara IceDogs)
November – Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
October – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)

Defenceman of the Month:
January – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts)
December – Anthony Cristoforo (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Adam Jiricek (Brantford Bulldogs)
October – Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires)

Goaltender of the Month:
January – Carter George (Soo Greyhounds)
December – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
November – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
October – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)

Rookie of the Month:
January – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
December – Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
November – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)

OHL Writers’ Draft Eligible Players of the Month: January

Posted on February 1, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

FORWARD OF THE MONTH: NIKITA KLEPOV – SAGINAW SPIRIT

Nikita Klepov earned the honor on the strength of a dominant January, posting 8 goals and 11 assists across 12 games. All but one of his goals came at five‑on‑five, and he was held off the scoresheet only three times during the month. He delivered five multi‑point performances, and in every game in which he scored — save for one — he also added at least one assist, underscoring just how impactful he was shift after shift.

Also considered was Ben Wilmott of the Barrie Colts who had 7 goals and 8 assists through 13 games. Cooper Dennis of the Brantford Bulldogs also drew attention with 7 goals and 7 assists though 11 games.

DEFENSEMAN OF THE MONTH: CHASE REID – SOO GREYHOUNDS

With 4 goals and 8 assists across 9 January games, Chase Reid earns the nod this month. Three of his four tallies came on the power play, and one stood up as a game‑winner. He delivered a multi‑goal performance on January 25 against North Bay and added a single multi‑assist outing, underscoring his steady, game‑to‑game impact.

Also considered was Parker von Richter of the Barrie Colts who posted 3 goals and 9 assists through 13 games in January.

GOALTENDER OF THE MONTH: EASTON RYE – PETERBOROUGH PETES

Easton Rye posted a 7-3-0-0 record in January to lead the Petes. In total, he faced 292 shots, stopping 272 of them for an impressive .932 save percentage.

Also considered was Sebastian Gatto of the London Knights who went 5-1-0-0 and a .931 save percentage. Arvin Jaswal of the Barrie Colts went 5-0-0-0 with a .932 save percentage.

Previous Months

Forward

Caleb Malhotra – Brantford Bulldogs – September

Tristan Delisle – Owen Sound Attack – October

Alex Kostov – Flint Firebirds – November

Caleb Malhotra – Brantford Bulldogs – December

Nikita Klepov – Saginaw Spirit – January

Defenseman

Carson Woodall – Windsor Spitfires – September

Carson Woodall – Windsor Spitfires – October

Chase Reid – Soo Greyhounds – November

Anthony Cristoforo – Windsor Spitfires – December

Chase Reid – Soo Greyhounds – January

Goaltender

Michael Newlove – Windsor Spitfires – September

Vladislav Yermolenko – Niagara IceDogs – October

Ben Hrebik – Barrie Colts – November

Ben Hrebik – Barrie Colts – December

Easton Rye – Peterborough Petes – January

OHL’s Draft Eligible Statistical Leaders: January

Posted on February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s/ Photo by OHL Images

If you’re anything like me, you’re more than ready to turn the page on January and the mountain of snow it delivered. But the end of the month also signals something far more intriguing: a fresh look at which of the OHL’s draft‑eligible talents are setting the pace as we head into the heart of the season.

Here is a look at the statistical leaders as of January 31, 2026.

Points Leaders
Player	Team	GP	G	A	Pts
Nikita Klepov	Saginaw	47	28	34	62
Caleb Malhotra	Brantford	46	23	38	61
Egor Barabanov	Saginaw	48	20	39	59
Ryan Roobroeck	Niagara	47	27	28	55
Cooper Dennis	Brantford	47	25	28	53
Pierce Mbuyi	Owen Sound	48	25	28	53
Carson Woodall	Windsor	48	9	44	53
Alex Kostov	Flint	43	23	29	52
Michael Dec	Erie	47	20	28	48
Ben Wilmott	Barrie	48	19	29	48
Goal Scoring Leaders
Player	Team		GP	G	GPG
Ethan Belchetz	Windsor		45	29	0.64
Nikita Klepov	Saginaw		47	28	0.60
Ryan Roobroeck	Niagara		47	27	0.57
Cooper Dennis	Brantford		47	25	0.53
Pierce Mbuyi	Owen Sound		48	25	0.52
Tristan Delisle	Owen Sound		48	24	0.50
Jasper Kuhta	Ottawa		41	24	0.59
Caleb Malhotra	Brantford		46	23	0.50
Alex Kostov	Flint		43	23	0.53
Adam Novotny	Peterborough		39	23	0.59
Assist Leaders
Player	Team		GP	A	APG
Carson Woodall	Windsor		48	44	0.92
Egor Barabanov	Saginaw		48	39	0.81
Caleb Malhotra	Brantford		46	38	0.83
Nikita Klepov	Saginaw		47	34	0.72
Christopher Brown	Soo Greyhounds		47	30	0.64
Alex Kostov	Flint		43	29	0.67
Chase Reid	Soo Greyhounds		41	29	0.71
John Banks	Owen Sound		46	29	0.63
Ryan Roobroeck	Niagara		47	28	0.60
Cooper Dennis	Brantford		47	28	0.60
Defencemen Point Leaders
Player	Team	GP	G	A	Pts
Carson Woodall	Windsor	48	9	44	53
Chase Reid	Soo Greyhounds	41	18	29	47
Anthony Cristoforo	Windsor	42	16	27	43
Artem Gonchar	Sudbury	45	10	25	35
Parker von Richter	Barrie	49	7	27	34
John Banks	Owen Sound	46	2	29	31
Andoni Fimis	London	48	5	20	25
Cole Emerton	Barrie	48	3	22	25
Vladimir Dravecky	Brantford	38	7	16	23
Alexander Bilecki	Kitchener	47	7	16	23
Goaltenders Leaders – Goals Against Average
Player	Team	GP	Min	GA	Avg
Ryder Fetterolf	Ottawa	28	1697	54	1.91
Sebastian Gatto	London	22	1235	45	2.19
Jack Lisson	North Bay	24	1356	52	2.30
Jaeden Nelson	Ottawa	19	1144	46	2.41
Matthew Minchak	Kingston	23	1307	55	2.52
Jason Schaubel	Kitchener	21	1229	54	2.64
Ben Hrebik	Barrie	33	1998	91	2.73
Easton Rye	Peterborough	38	2232	103	2.77
Gavin Betts	Kingston	27	1514	77	3.05
Vladislav Yemolenko	Niagara	34	1875	101	3.23
Goaltending Leaders – Save Percentage
Player	Team	GP	SH	SVS	SV%
Ryder Fetterolf	Ottawa	28	745	691	0.928
Ben Hrebik	Barrie	33	1202	1111	0.924
Sebastian Gatto	London	22	569	524	0.921
Matthew Minchak	Kingston	23	682	627	0.919
Easton Rye	Peterborough	38	1220	1117	0.916
Jack Lisson	North Bay	24	603	551	0.914
Jaeden Nelson	Ottawa	19	502	456	0.908
Vladislav Yemolenko	Niagara	34	1046	945	0.903
Jason Schaubel	Kitchener	21	538	484	0.900
Gavin Betts	Kingston	27	756	679	0.898

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on January 30, 2026 by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Friday, January 30, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Academic Players of the Month for January, recognizing dedication to excellence in the classroom.

East Division – Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Draft eligible Ottawa 67’s forward Thomas Vandenberg is the East Division Academic Player of the Month for January, posting an 87% average in Grade 12 studies through Blyth Academy The Glebe. Vandenberg is currently studying Advanced Functions, English, World Cultures and Challenge and Change in Society.

“I continue to be impressed by Thomas’ academic efforts and results,” said 67’s Academic Advisor Eileen Duffin. “Thomas has earned the January Academic award as a result of his continued hard work, persistence and positive attitude. He sets an excellent example for fellow Ottawa 67’s student athletes.”

A 17-year-old centreman from Nepean, Vandenberg is enjoying a successful first season in the OHL, recording 17 goals, 17 assists and 34 points over 37 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-14. He recently represented the Eastern Conference in the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game held in Peterborough. Ottawa’s fifth round (93rd overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Vandenberg spent 2024-25 with the USHL’s Cedar Rapids Roughriders, recording 18 points (9-9–18) in 55 games. He is the 25th-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Vandenberg is committed to Providence College (NCAA).

Central Division – Brady Smith (Sudbury Wolves)
First-year Sudbury Wolves defenceman Brady Smith is the Central Division Academic Player of the Month for January, excelling in Grade 12 studies through St. Charles College in Sudbury.

“Brady is a true student-athlete,” said Academic Advisor Jennifer Humphrey. “He’s really demonstrated a great ability to balance academic requirements with a busy hockey career. He has worked very hard and is deserving of this honour.”

A 17-year-old defenceman from Oshawa, ON, Smith has recorded one assist over 20 games with the Wolves this season. The 6-foot-2, 194Ib. left-shot blueliner was the club’s sixth round (111th overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Oshawa Minor Generals AAA program. He recorded 13 points (2-11–13) over 51 games with the OJHL’s Stouffville Spirit in 2024-25.

Midwest Division – Braidy Wassilyn (London Knights)
NHL Draft eligible London Knights forward Braidy Wassilyn is the Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for January, securing high marks through his Grade 12 studies, including an 88% mark in English.

“Braidy consistently demonstrates an excellent work ethic and a high level of independence in completing his academic responsibilities,” said Knights Academic Advisor Wendy Glover. “He completes all assigned work thoroughly and on time without requiring reminders, and he approaches his studies with maturity and focus. Braidy is respectful, responsible, and thoughtful in his interactions, and his intelligence and kindness are evident in everything he does. He is a pleasure to work with and sets a strong example for others. We are proud of him in London!”

A 17-year-old from Campbellville, ON, Wassilyn has recorded 15 goals, 17 assists and 32 points over 40 games between the Knights and the Niagara IceDogs this season. A former fourth overall pick by Niagara in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Wassilyn recently suited up for the Western Conference in the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game. He’s the 50th-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Wassilyn is committed to Boston University (NCAA).

West Division – Harris Pangretitsch (Soo Greyhounds)
NHL Draft prospect Harris Pangretitsch of the Soo Greyhounds is the West Division Academic Player of the Month for January, posting a 95% average in Grade 12 studies through Superior Heights Secondary School. Pangretitsch is currently studying Canadian & International Politics, Business Leadership, Accounting and Advanced Math Functions.

“Harris has emerged from an academically strong group of teammates and to date has demonstrated an outstanding academic performance with an overall average of 95%,” said Greyhounds Academic Advisor Mary-Lynne Lukenda. “His 98% grade in Advanced Math Functions could not be achieved without sound time management, study skills and commitment. He has also played very well for the Greyhounds this season and exemplifies the ‘best of both worlds’ philosophy of the OHL.”

A 17-year-old defenceman from Toronto, Pangretitsch has a goal, nine assists and 10 points over 45 games on the blue line, to go with a plus-10 rating. The 6-foot-4, 216Ib. Pangretitsch spent the 2024-25 at Choate Rosemary Hall located in Wallingford, Connecticut, recording 15 points (6-9–15) over 25 games. The Greyhounds selected Pangretitsch in the fourth round (82nd overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros AAA program. He is the 152nd-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings.

2025-26 OHL Academic Players of the Month

East Division
January – Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
December – Colin Feeley (Oshawa Generals)
November – Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
October – Aiden O’Donnell (Oshawa Generals/Brantford Bulldogs)

Central Division
January – Brady Smith (Sudbury Wolves)
December – Ryerson Edgar (Niagara IceDogs)
November – Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion)
October – Cole Emerton (Barrie Colts)

Midwest Division
January – Braidy Wassilyn (London Knights)
December – Alexander Bilecki (Kitchener Rangers)
November – Eric Frossard (Guelph Storm)
October – Lucas Ambrosio (Erie Otters)

West Division
January – Harris Pangretitsch (Soo Greyhounds)
December – Chase Gaughan (Sarnia Sting)
November – Dimian Zhilkin (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)

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2025-26 OHL Performers of the Month

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