OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for January, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.



East Division –  Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)

Brantford Bulldogs rookie forward Jake O’Brien is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

O’Brien is currently holding outstanding grades in three grade 11 courses, including an overall average of 92.3 percent across Marketing, Designing Your Future, and Health at Ancaster High School.

“Jake has demonstrated impressive academic achievement across a breadth of courses,” said Bulldogs Academic Advisor Sean Nicholson. “His teachers regularly note the diligent attention he pays to his studies, and how he’s always on time with his assignments, even after a long road trip. Jake is a role model for other e-learning students and has managed to achieve the perfect balance between academics and his on-ice commitments”.

The 16-year-old from Toronto, Ont. has played 38 games this season, recording seven goals and 34 assists for the Bulldogs. O’Brien’s 43 points make him the only OHL rookie with than a point-per-game so far this season. Winning the 2023 OHL Cup to be crowned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, the 6-foot, 165Ib. forward was Brantford’s first round (8th overall) pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 program. O’Brien was selected to represent Canada Red at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge last November.



Central Division –  Jaiden Newton (Barrie Colts)

Barrie Colts rookie forward Jaiden Newton is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Newton is currently holding an “A” average in two grade 11 courses, including an 85 percent average in Transportation Technology, an 82 percent average in High Performance Athlete Co-op, as well as a 78 percent average in grade 12 Business Leadership at Innisdale Secondary School.

“J.D.’s teachers have remarked that he is a hard working student who attends his classes regularly and always submits his work on time,” said Colts Academic Advisor Chris Cudmore.

The 16-year-old Whitby, Ont. product has played 26 games this season, recording a goal and four assists for the Colts. The 5-foot-11, 167Ib. centreman was originally selected in the second round (26th overall) by Barrie in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Whitby Wildcats U16 program.



Midwest Division – Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters)

Erie Otters rookie defenceman Matthew Schaefer is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Schaefer is currently holding excellent grades in four grade 11 university-level courses, including a 97 percent average in Speech, a 91.36 percent average in Visual Arts Exploration, a 98 percent average in Public Speaking, and a 93 percent average in Innovation at Fairview High School, as well as a 95 percent average in online grade 11 English at Blyth Academy.

“Matthew has excelled in the classroom throughout this season, maintaining an average of 95% through five academic courses so far this school year,” said Otters Assistant General Manager and Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve. “Matthew is an extremely mature, responsible young man, and he has transitioned into the OHL very well. He is a pleasure to work with both on and off the ice, and is very deserving of this recognition.”

Selected first overall by the Otters in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Halton Hurricanes U16 program, the Stoney Creek, Ont. native has registered two goals, 11 assists, and 13 points over 38 games played in Erie this season. The 6-foot-1, 162lb. blueliner was selected to represent Canada White at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge last November, captaining his team to a gold medal.



West Division – Jacob Brown (Flint Firebirds)

Flint Firebirds goaltender Jacob Brown is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Brown is currently achieving a high average across five grade 12 university-level courses, with a 95 percent average in Career Management, a 95 percent average in Physical Fitness, a 95 percent average in Personal Finance, a 92 percent average in Psychology, and a 95 percent average in Co-op at Linden High School.

Brown has played to a 2-4-2-0 record with the Firebirds this season, recording a 4.82 goals-against average and an .836 save percentage in 10 appearances. The 6-foot-2, 176lb. Yarker, Ont. native was the Firebirds’ fourth round (80th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Greater Kingston Gaels U16 program. Brown made 23 appearances with the Timmins Rock of the NOJHL last season, playing to an 18-1-3 record,  along with a 1.49 goals-against average and .925 save percentage.

2023-24 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
January – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
December – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)
November – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)

Central Division:
January – Jaiden Newton (Barrie Colts)
December – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)
November – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves)
October – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)

Midwest Division:
January – Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters)
December – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
November – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights)
October – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)

West Division:
January – Jacob Brown (Flint Firebirds)
December – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds)
October – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)

###

The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavours.

A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totalled more than $25 million.

A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.

About Hockley Valley Resort
Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometres of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.

Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

GREENTREE AND HILLEBRANDT NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 28, 2024.



Spitfires’ Liam Greentree Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

2024 NHL Draft-eligible forward Liam Greentree of the Windsor Spitfires is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, contributing three goals, four assists and seven points while registering a plus-6 rating in two games.

Greentree recorded a career-high six-point night with three goals and three assists on Saturday, being named the game’s first star as the Spitfires defeated the Peterborough Petes 8-2. He found the scoresheet again on Sunday, registering an assist in a 5-2 loss to the Saginaw Spirit.

A recently turned 18-year-old from Oshawa, Ont., the 6-foot-2, 198lb. forward ranks eighth among all OHL point-getters, recording 64 (27-37–64) through 41 outings as the Spitfires own a record of 14-27-3-1 on the season. Selected in the second-round (34th overall) by Windsor in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Greentree has put up 52 goals, 57 assists and 109 points in 102 regular season contests. Rated 12th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft, Greentree recently represented Team White at the Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game held in Moncton, NB last week, registering the team’s sole marker.

Also considered for the award this week, Winnipeg Jets prospect Colby Barlow of the Owen Sound Attack recorded seven points (4-3–7) in three games. Dalyn Wakely of the North Bay Battalion also had a standout week, registering two goals and five assists in three games.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Quentin Musty (Sudbury Wolves)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)
 



Colts’ Sam Hillebrandt Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Sam Hillebrandt of the Barrie Colts is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season following a pair of wins with a 2.40 goals-against average and .940 save percentage.

Stopping a total of 78 shots last week, Hillebrandt turned aside 38 of the 41 attempts he faced on Thursday as Barrie defeated the Owen Sound Attack 7-3. The 6-foot-1, 166lb. netminder was back in the crease with a 40-save performance on Saturday, stopping all four shootout attempts that came his way to earn first star honours in a 3-2 shootout win over the Oshawa Generals as the Colts improved to 18-24-1-0 on the season.

An 18-year-old from Riverview, Florida., Hillebrandt owns a season mark of 11-11-0-0, posting a 3.29 goals-against average and .907 save percentage. Originally hailing from Michigan, Hillebrandt played in the Detroit Little Caesars AAA program before moving to Florida. He won a gold medal with the United States National Junior Team at the 2024 World Juniors in Sweden. The Colts signed Hillebrandt as a free agent ahead of the 2022-23 season after he spent the  2021-22 season with the Florida Alliance North 16U organization.

Also in the running for the award this week, Nathan Day of the Flint Firebirds played to a 2-0 record, with a 2.36 goals-against average, and .917 save percentage. Charlie Schenkel of the Soo Greyhounds was solid in the crease, playing to a 2-0 mark with a 2.00 goals-against average and .923 save percentage.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)

2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects perform on-ice testing

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — Forty of the Canadian Hockey League’s top prospects for the 2024 NHL Draft completed on-ice testing Tuesday ahead of the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, which is set to take place tomorrow at the Avenir Centre in Moncton, N.B.

The Sport Testing Combine conducted by the Okanagan Hockey Group offered all players in attendance the opportunity to showcase their individual strengths while gauging their fitness and skill levels among their peers for NHL management and scouts to evaluate.

On-ice tests included forward and backward sprints, weave agility, transition agility, and reaction drills performed with and without the puck:

30M Forward Skate
1 – Julius Miettinen (Everett Silvertips / WHL) — 3.866 seconds
2 – Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL) — 4 seconds
3 – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) — 4.063 seconds
4 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 4.098 seconds
5 – Nathan Villeneuve (Sudbury Wolves / OHL) — 4.122 seconds

30M Forward Skate with Puck
1 – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL) — 3.902 seconds
2 – Nathan Villeneuve (Sudbury Wolves / OHL) — 3.984 seconds
3 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 3.985 seconds
4 – Eriks Mateiko (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL) — 4.051 seconds
5 – Ben Danford (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 4.08 seconds

30M Backwards Skate
1 – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) — 4.442 seconds
2 – Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL) — 4.461 seconds
3 – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL) — 4.482 seconds
4 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 4.614 seconds
5 – Ben Danford (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 4.671 seconds

30M Backwards Skate with Puck
1 – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL) — 4.551 seconds
2 – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) — 4.603 seconds
3 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 4.625 seconds
3 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 4.625 seconds
5 – Ben Danford (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 4.699 seconds

Weave Agility
1 – Carson Wetsch (Calgary Hitmen / WHL) — 10.487 seconds
2 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 10.498 seconds
3 – Henry Mews (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) — 10.602 seconds
4 – Sam O’Reilly (London Knights / OHL) — 10.779 seconds
5 – Luke Misa (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL) — 10.801 seconds

Weave Agility with Puck
1 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 10.693 seconds
2 – Luke Misa (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL) — 10.968 seconds
3 – Tanner Howe (Regina Pats / WHL) — 10.977 seconds
4 – Harrison Brunicke (Kamloops Blazers / WHL) — 10.979 seconds
5 – Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs / OHL) — 11 seconds

Transition Ability
1 – Henry Mews (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) — 13.368 seconds
2 – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL) — 13.38 seconds
3 – Berkly Catton (Spokane Chiefs / WHL) — 13.503 seconds
4 – Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL) — 13.506 seconds
5 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 13.525 seconds

Transition Ability with Puck
1 – Henry Mews (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) — 13.902 seconds
2 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 13.918 seconds
3 – Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL) — 14.054 seconds
4 – Luke Misa (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL) — 14.073 seconds
5 – Colton Roberts (Vancouver Giants / WHL) — 14.134 seconds

Reaction
1 – Terik Parascak (Prince George Cougars / WHL) — 9.165 seconds
2 – Ethan Procyszyn (North Bay Battalion / OHL) — 9.559 seconds
3 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 9.717 seconds
4 – Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) — 9.751 seconds
5 – Luca Marrelli (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 9.77 seconds

Reaction with Puck
1 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) — 9.959 seconds
2 – Ethan Procyszyn (North Bay Battalion / OHL) — 9.973 seconds
3 – Luke Misa (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL) — 9.99 seconds
4 – Carson Wetsch (Calgary Hitmen / WHL) — 10.012 seconds
5 – Luca Marrelli (Oshawa Generals / OHL) — 10.19 seconds

Overall
1 – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL) 
2 – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL)
3 – Carson Wetsch (Calgary Hitmen / WHL) 
4 – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals / OHL)
5 – Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL)

MUSTY AND DROBAC NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 21, 2024.



Wolves’ Quentin Musty Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

San Jose Sharks prospect Quentin Musty of the Sudbury Wolves is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, contributing two goals, eight assists and 10 points while registering a plus-5 rating in three games.

Musty recorded a season-high six-point night with two goals and four assists on Thursday, being named the game’s first star as the Wolves defeated the Barrie Colts 7-3. The 6-foot-2, 202lb. left-winger found the scoresheet again on Friday, registering a helper in a 7-3 loss to the Erie Otters. Musty closed out the weekend with a three-point performance on Sunday, tallying three assists as Sudbury earned their second win of the weekend against the Colts, this time on home ice.

An 18-year-old left-wing from Hamburg, NY., Musty’s 1.81 points-per-game this season is the second-highest production rate in the OHL. He ranks second among all Wolves point-getters with 56 (21-35–56) through 31 outings as the Wolves own a record of 23-14-3-2, good for second in the Eastern Conference. Selected in the first-round (26th overall) by the San Jose Sharks in the 2023 NHL Draft, the former first overall pick by the Wolves in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection has put up 59 goals, 106 assists and 165 points in 134 OHL regular season contests. Sharks signed an entry-level NHL contract with San Jose on Oct. 4, 2023.

Also considered for the award this week, Wolves teammate and St. Louis Blues prospect Dalibor Dvorsky recorded nine points (5-4–9) in three games. Chicago Blackhawks prospect Gavin Hayes of the Soo Greyhounds also had a standout week, registering seven points (3-4–7) in three showings.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Quentin Musty (Sudbury Wolves)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)
 



Bulldogs’ Matteo Drobac Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Matteo Drobac of the Brantford Bulldogs is the OHL Goaltender of the Week,  playing to a 3-0 record including a shutout, along with a 1.00 goals-against average and .957 save percentage to help the Bulldogs move atop the Eastern Conference standings.

Making a total of 66 saves last week, Drobac stopped 18 of the 20 shots that came his way on Wednesday as the Bulldogs defeated the Oshawa Generals 3-2. The 6-foot-2, 199lb. netminder returned to the crease on Saturday, blocking 22 of the 23 shots he faced in a 5-1 win over the Windsor Spitfires. Drobac closed out the weekend with a 26-save shutout to earn first star honours on Sunday, blanking the Mississauga Steelheads 3-0. Sunday’s victory saw Drobac become the winningest goaltender in Bulldogs history as his 56th career victory surpassed the previous mark held by Kaden Fulcher (2015-18).

Playing to an 18-8-4-2 record, the 20-year-old from Oakville, Ont. has registered two shutouts, along with a 3.20 goals-against average, and a .893 save percentage in 32 games this season. Selected in the sixth round (110th overall) by the Bulldogs in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection, the former 2022 OHL champion has appeared in 100 career regular season contests, recording a 3.29 goals-against average and .890 save percentage over four seasons, going 56-31-8-2 in the process.

Also considered for the award this week, top 2024 NHL Draft prospect Carter George went 2-0 with a 0.50 goals-against average and .982 save percentage including a shutout, while Saginaw Spirit netminder Andrew Oke also went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .951 save percentage.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

BONK AND SIMPSON NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 14, 2024.



Knights’ Oliver Bonk Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Philadelphia Flyers prospect Oliver Bonk of the London Knights is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, contributing five goals and six assists while registering a plus-6 rating in three victories.

Bonk recorded a career-high five-point night with two goals and three assists on Wednesday, being named the game’s second star as the Knights defeated the Sarnia Sting 9-2. He found the scoresheet again on Friday, registering a goal and an assist in the Knights’ 6-1 win over the Saginaw Spirit. Bonk closed out the weekend with a third consecutive multi-point contest, extending his current point streak to eight games with a pair of goals and assists as the Knights blanked the Owen Sound Attack 10-0. Bonk’s current eight-game run has included seven goals, 13 assists and 20 points.

A recently turned 19-year-old from Ottawa, Ont., Bonk ranks third among all OHL defencemen in points this season, recording 44 (12-32–44) through 33 outings as the Knights own a record of 29-11-0-1, good for third in the Western Conference. Selected in the second-round (26th overall) by London in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot-2, 179lb. blueliner has put up 22 goals, 65 assists and 87 points in 110 regular season contests. Bonk helped the Knights reach the OHL Championship Series last season, recording 11 assists in 21 playoff matchups. Selected in the first-round (22nd overall) by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2023 NHL Draft, Bonk recently represented Team Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship earlier this month. He signed a three-year, entry-level NHL contract with Philadelphia on Aug. 21, 2023.

Also considered for the award this week, 2024 NHL Draft-eligible defenceman Zayne Parekh of the Saginaw Spirit recorded nine points (5-4–9) in three games. Newly acquired Spirit teammate Owen Beck also had a standout week, as the Montreal Canadiens prospect registered nine points (3-6–9) in three games, including a single-game club record-tying six in his debut with the team.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)
 



Knights’ Michael Simpson Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Michael Simpson of the London Knights is the OHL Goaltender of the Week,  playing to a 2-0 record including a shutout, along with a 0.50 goals-against average and .983 save percentage.

Making a total of 58 saves last week, Simpson stopped 30 of the 31 shots that came his way on Friday night as the Knights defeated the Saginaw Spirit 6-1 at home. The 6-foot-1, 198lb. netminder closed out the weekend with a 28-save shutout to earn third star honours on Sunday, blanking the Owen Sound Attack in a lopsided 10-0 victory.

Playing to a 22-7-0-0 record, the 20-year-old from London, Ont. holds a league-low 2.58 goals-against average, along with a .908 save percentage in 31 games this season. The only goaltender to reach 20+ wins this season, the former 2023 OHL champion has appeared in 127 career regular season contests, recording a 2.98 goals-against average and .904 save percentage over three seasons, going 66-47-5-3 in the process. Selected in the 10th round (193rd overall) by the Peterborough Petes in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection, the 2023 OHL Playoffs MVP attended development camp with the Pittsburgh Penguins last summer.

Also considered for the award this week, Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .930 save percentage, while Kitchener Rangers netminder Tristan Malboeuf also went 2-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and .929 save percentage.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

ROMANI AND OSTER NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 7th, 2024.



Battalion’s Anthony Romani Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

North Bay Battalion forward Anthony Romani is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week for the second time this season, contributing four goals and two assists while registering a plus-4 rating in three games.

Romani scored a goal and added an assist on Thursday, being named the game’s second star as the Battalion defeated the Brantford Bulldogs 4-2. He found the scoresheet again on Friday, tallying a pair of goals in the Battalion’s 5-2 road win over the Ottawa 67’s. Romani closed out the weekend with a third consecutive multi-point contest, extending his current point streak to 15 games with a goal and an assist in a 3-2 loss to the Kitchener Rangers. Romani has compiled 13 goals, 15 assists and 28 points throughout the course of his 15-game point streak that dates back to Nov. 25th.

An 18-year-old from Pickering, Ont., Romani ranks second among all OHL point producers this season, recording 61 points (31-30–61) through 38 outings as the Battalion own a record of 18-14-5-1. The 6-foot-1, 184Ib. right-wing was North Bay’s third-round (41st overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 program. In 158 regular season games, Romani has put up 62 goals, 56 assists and 118 points. He’s reached the Eastern Conference Championship Series with the Battalion in each of the past two seasons, recording 12 points (9-3–12) across 33 career playoff games. Romani attended rookie camp with the Carolina Hurricanes this past September.

Also considered for the award this week, overage forward Connor Lockhart of the Oshawa Generals recorded six points (4-2–6) in four games. Sudbury Wolves forward Kocha Delic was also productive, recording five points (1-4–5) in a pair of wins last week.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)



Generals’ Jacob Oster Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the third time this season, playing to a 2-2 record with a 1.77 goals-against average, and .952 save percentage.

Making a total of 139 saves last week, Oster stopped 30 of the 33 shots that came his way on New Year’s Day as the Generals came up short against the first place Kitchener Rangers by a score of 3-2. Oster returned to the crease on Wednesday, making 42 saves to earn first star honours in a 1-0 loss at home to the Soo Greyhounds. He turned away another 32 shots on Saturday as the Generals earned their first win of the new year, defeating the Flint Firebirds 10-2. The 6-foot-3, 190lb. netminder closed out the weekend with a 35-save performance to earn first star honours on Sunday in Saginaw, helping the Generals defeat the Spirit by a score of 5-1.

A 19-year-old from Ottawa, Ont., Oster has played to a 15-13-3-1 record this season, posting a 3.03 goals-against average, and .905 save percentage. He currently sits second in OHL minutes played (1,884) and saves (903) this season. Selected in the fifth-round (92nd overall) by the Guelph Storm in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, the veteran goaltender has appeared in 115 career regular season contests, recording a 3.48 goals-against average and .887 save percentage over three seasons, going 48-44-8-4 in the process. Oster attended training camp with the Los Angeles Kings last September.

Also considered for the award this week, Michael Simpson of the London Knights went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .943 save percentage, becoming the first goaltender to 20 wins with a league-low 2.73 goals-against average.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for December, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.

East Division –  Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)

Peterborough Petes rookie defenceman Carson Cameron is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for December.

Cameron is currently holding an “A” average in three grade 11 university-level courses, including an 81 percent average in Physics, a 78 percentage average in Functions, and an 85 percent average in Fitness Leadership at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School.

“Carson is a responsible, conscientious student. He is currently enrolled in three academic classes with an 81% average,” said Petes Academic Advisor Shannon Fife. “Carson was able to maintain his studies while playing for the U17 World Juniors for Canada and continues to hold himself to a high standard.”

“Carson has done a good job transitioning into the OHL both on and off the ice,” added Petes General Manager Mike Oke. “Despite moving away from home, attending a new school, and the demands of a busy hockey schedule, Carson continues to maintain strong grades.”

The 16-year-old from Bobcaygeon, Ont. has played 26 games this season, recording one goal and 10 assists for the Petes. The 6-foot, 171Ib. blueliner was Peterborough’s first round (13th overall) pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Central Ontario Wolves U16 program. Cameron was selected to represent Canada White at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in November, bringing home a gold medal.

Central Division –  Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)

Mississauga Steelheads defenceman Parker Von Richter is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for December.

Von Richter is currently holding excellent grades in three grade 12 university-level courses, including an 86 percentage average in World Issues, a 74 percent average in Advanced Functions, and a 95 percent average in Families in Canada at Port Credit Secondary School.

“Parker is a player who requires no maintenance academically,” said Steelheads Assistant Coach, Matt Chiarantano. “He is truly a joy to have on our hockey club both on the ice and in the classroom. His diligence, proactiveness, and leadership are constantly on display. There is no question Parker fulfills all the standards required to receive this award.”

The 17-year-old hometown product has played 31 games this season, recording a goal and 10 assists for the Steelheads. The 6-foot-1, 183Ib. blueliner was originally selected in the third round (51st overall) by Mississauga in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros U16 program.

Midwest Division – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)

Owen Sound Attack goaltender Carter George is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for December.

George has completed three university-level courses this season, including a 95 percent average in English, a 95 percent average in Business Studies, and a 99 percent average in Co-op Studies. George continues to achieve outstanding grades in three additional university-level courses, including a 95 percent average in Advanced Functions, and a 92 percent average in Business Management Fundamentals at Owen Sound District Secondary School and Independent Learning Centre.

“Carter is an extremely hard-working student who always puts forth his best effort, on or off the ice,” said Attack Academic Advisor Sarah Rowe. “He’s always interested to see if his save percentage or his academic average is higher! His teachers describe him as a conscientious student and a leader who is the first to step in and assist his teammates. Carter is enrolled at OSDSS and ILC, allowing him to complete work at an accelerated pace. He demonstrates a maturity beyond his years and a very positive attitude. He is an absolute pleasure to teach.”

The 6-foot-1, 182lb. netminder from Thunder Bay, Ont. has appeared in 29 games this season with the Attack, playing to an 12-11-2-1 record with a 3.08 goals-against average and .912 save percentage. The OHL’s October Rookie of the Month was originally selected by the Attack in the third round (53rd overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. George represented Team Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup this past summer, backstopping his home country to a gold medal. George, who has been selected to compete in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in Moncton, NB later this month, is a ‘B’ rated prospect by NHL Central Scouting for the 2024 NHL Draft.

West Division – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)

Windsor Spitfires forward Cole Davis is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for December.

Davis is currently achieving an overall average of 82 percent across three grade 12 university-level courses, with an 85 percent average in Chemistry, an 80 percent average in English, and an 83 percent average in Biology at St. Anne Catholic High School.

“Cole is a wonderful young man who shines in the classroom and on the ice,” said Spitfires Academic Advisor Danielle Chevalier. “He always has a smile on his face and is willing to help anyone who needs it. He is a valuable player for the team on and off the ice.”

Named the OHL’s Rookie of the Month for November, Davis has been a solid contributor for the Spitfires this season, recording 12 goals, 10 assists, and 22 points in 34 games played. The 5-foot-10, Dutton, Ont. native was the Spitfires’ fourth round (65th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the York-Simcoe Express U16 program.

2023-24 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
December – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)
November – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)

Central Division:
December – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)
November – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves)
October – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)

Midwest Division:
December – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
November – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights)
October – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)

West Division:
December – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds)
October – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)

The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.

A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.

A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.

About Hockley Valley Resort
Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.

Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

CHL Team of the Month presented by CCM: December 2023

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce today the December edition of the CHL Team of the Month presented by CCM for the 2023-24 regular season.

F – Riley Heidt (Prince George Cougars / WHL)
7G-17A, 24 PTS, +11 in 11 GP in December

With 24 points in 11 games, Minnesota Wild prospect Riley Heidt of the No.2-ranked Prince George Cougars led the CHL in scoring during the month of December alongside Ruslan Gazizov (6G-18A) of the London Knights. To close out 2023, Heidt was held off the scoresheet just twice in December and he recorded seven multipoint contests over that stretch, which included matching a career-high five points (0G-5A) on December 15 against the Wenatchee Wild. The latter represented the fourth time both this season and during his career that the 18-year-old from Saskatoon, Sask., has registered five points in a single WHL game. Thanks to a strong month, Heidt now leads all CHL skaters with 70 points (22G-48A) during the 2023-24 campaign and he’s topped 20 goals for a third consecutive season. The 5-foot-11, 182-pound centre also leads all CHL skaters with 21 power-play assists, while his 28 power-play points rank tied for first alongside teammate Zac Funk. Having collected 17 assists during the month of December, Heidt is up to 48 helpers on the season, which currently stands as the third-most of any player in the CHL. The 2023 Minnesota Wild second-round pick is also one of just four skaters in the CHL to be averaging at least two points per game this season (minimum three games played).

F – Zac Funk (Prince George Cougars / WHL)
14G-8A, 22 PTS, +13, in 11 GP in December

Having scored a CHL-best 14 goals over the month of December, Zac Funk of the No.2-ranked Prince George Cougars becomes the first player this season to have been selected to the CHL Team of the Month presented by CCM for a second time. The 20-year-old from Coldstream, B.C., was a member of the CHL’s Team of the Month in October. Impressively, over his 11 games in December, Funk recorded hat-tricks against Tri-City (December 1), Portland (December 3) and Wenatchee (December 15). He has now tallied a total of six hat-tricks over the course of the 2023-24 campaign, which might help explain why he leads all CHL skaters with 40 goals this season. He’s also recorded 11 outings with two or more goals so far through 37 games this season. Over the month of December, Funk finished with a plus/minus rating of +13, which was the third-best mark in the CHL, and he was held off the scoresheet just twice in 11 games. Through 37 contests during the 2023-24 campaign, Funk is averaging over a goal per game, and he has tallied a CHL-leading 19 power-play goals. The 20-year-old has also set career-highs for goals (40), assists (29), points (69) and power-play goals (19) in a single season with his performance thus far in 2023-24. With 69 points as of January 4, the 6-foot, 210-pound right winger trails only his teammate Riley Heidt (70 points) in the CHL’s scoring race. 

F – Berkly Catton (Spokane Chiefs / WHL)
8G-15A, 23 PTS, +12, in 10 GP in December

Averaging 2.3 points per game over the last month, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Berkly Catton of the Spokane Chiefs was one of the CHL’s highest scoring players in December. Catton’s 23 points trailed only Prince George’s Heidt (7G-17A) and London’s Gazizov (6G-18A) for the CHL lead, and they were the most by any first-time draft eligible skater in the CHL. The 17-year-old from Saskatoon, Sask., is currently on a 10-game point streak, which he most recently extended with consecutive four-point efforts in a pair of games against the Tri-City Americans to wrap up 2023. In total, Catton had six multipoint contests in the month of December, and he recorded three or more points on four occasions over that stretch. Although Catton’s 55 points trail only Terik Parascak (26G-31A) in scoring among 2024 NHL Draft eligible skaters in the CHL, his 1.67 points per game this season leads that same group of skaters. The 5-foot-11, 164-pound centreman’s 55 points (22G-33A) also rank eighth among all WHL skaters, and he’s been held off the scoresheet just once over his last 14 contests. Having received an ‘A’ rating from NHL Central Scouting, Catton is a projected first-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, which is scheduled to take place June 28-29 in Vegas. Earlier in December, Catton was also one of 40 players selected to compete in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Wednesday, January 24.

D – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves / OHL)
2G-13A, 15 PTS, +3 in 11 GP in December

Currently on a 17-game point streak, the longest active streak of its kind in the CHL, Nick DeAngelis of the Sudbury Wolves had an excellent month of December. In 11 games over the last month, DeAngelis recorded 15 points, which were tied with Hunter Brzustewicz (1G-14A) of the Kitchener Rangers and Sam Dickinson (6G-9A) of the London Knights for the most by a defenceman in the CHL. The 19-year-old from King City, Ont., has registered a point in every game he has played in since November 15. It’s a stretch that has seen the third-year veteran tally five multipoint outings, including a career-high four-point effort (0G-4A) against the Barrie Colts on December 1. DeAngelis is now up to 27 assists on the season, which ranks tied for fourth among rearguards in the OHL. The 6-foot-2, 195-pound defenceman leads all Wolves blueliners with 29 points (2G-27A) in 33 games this season and his efforts last month no doubt helped the Sudbury Wolves close out 2023 as the OHL’s Eastern Conference leaders.

D – Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL)
6G-9A, 15 PTS, +7 in 11 GP in December

Along with Kitchener’s Brzustewicz (1G-14A) and Sudbury’s DeAngelis (2G-13A), 2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam Dickinson of the London Knights had 15 points to lead all CHL defenceman in scoring during the month of December. Moreover, no draft eligible blueliner in the CHL had more points last month than Dickinson. Through 11 games played, the 17-year-old from Toronto, Ont., also potted six goals, which trailed only Nathan Drapeau (7G-5A) of the Val-d’Or Foreurs for the most by any blueliner in the Canadian Hockey League in December. The 6-foot-3, 195-pound defenceman is now up to 34 points (11G-23A) on the campaign, which is tied for fourth among rearguards in the OHL. His 34 points also trail only Zayne Parekh (45 points) of the Saginaw Spirit and Carter Yakemchuk (39 points) of the Calgary Hitmen among 2024 NHL Draft eligible blueliners across the CHL. Having received an ‘A’ rating from NHL Central Scouting, Dickinson is a projected first-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, which is scheduled to take place June 28-29 in Vegas. Earlier last month, Dickinson was also one of 40 players selected to compete in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Wednesday, January 24.

G – Olivier Ciarlo (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL)
4-2-0-0, 1.49 GAA, .941 SV%, 2 SO in six starts in December

Coming into the month of December, and playing for the Baie-Comeau Drakkar at the time, netminder Olivier Ciarlo carried a shutout streak that he would extend into one of the longest in QMJHL history. Over December 1 and 2, the 19-year-old from Laval, Que., posted a pair of shutouts against the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada on consecutive nights to give him three straight games with a shutout. During his next start on December 10 against Chicoutimi, Ciarlo would eventually give up a goal, but only after he had extended his shutout streak to 239 minutes and 56 seconds – which not only broke a Baie-Comeau franchise record, but now stands as the third-longest streak of its kind in QMJHL history. Ultimately, Carlo was just three minutes and 40 seconds shy of breaking the all-time QMJHL record held by former Rimouski Océanic netminder Philippe Desrosiers (243:35). On December 17, Ciarlo was acquired from Baie-Comeau by Blainville-Boisbriand, where he played a pair of games to wrap up the year 2023. In December, between the six games he played for the Drakkar and Armada, Ciarlo’s 1.49 goals against average (GAA) and .941 save percentage (SV%) ranked second among all goalies across the CHL who played at least 180 minutes. Among netminders in the CHL who played five games or more in December, Ciarlo’s 1.49 GAA and .941 SV% both ranked first. With a CHL-best 21 wins as of January 4, Ciarlo is also the only goalie who has topped the 20-win plateau so far during the 2023-24 campaign.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Month for regular season games played in December 2023.

Player of the Month – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)

London Knights forward Ruslan Gazizov is the OHL Player of the Month for December, leading the league with 24 points including six goals and 18 assists over 11 games as the Knights played to a mark of 8-3-0-0. The 5-foot-11, 185lb. Gazizov registered points in nine of his 11 outings, headlined by a four-point showing on Dec. 14th, followed by a season-high five-point performance on Dec. 15th., scoring a goal and four assists in London’s 8-2 win over the Owen Sound Attack. He proceeded to score twice on Dec. 17th at home to Sudbury, closing out the first half with an overtime game-winner. Gazizov racked up eight different multi-point performances in the month of December, helping the Knights enter the new year on a six-game winning streak.

Selected by the Knights in the first round, 12th overall of the 2021 CHL Import Draft, the 19-year-old comes-off a a solid first half of the season, registering 42 points (15-27-42) in 35 games. Gazizov continues his third-year campaign in London, tallying 48 goals, 70 assists, and 118 points over 145 career OHL regular season contests.

Also considered for the award this month, North Bay Battalion forward Anthony Romani registered eight goals, 13 assists, and 21 points (8-13-21) in 11 games played throughout December. He enters January on a 12-game point streak.

Defenceman of the Month – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves)

Sudbury Wolves blueliner Nick DeAngelis is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, riding an OHL season-high 17-game point streak into the month of January. DeAngelis recorded two goals, 13 assists, and 15 points over 11 December outings as the Wolves closed-out 2023 in first place in the Central Division. DeAngelis started the month with a career-high four assist performance as the Wolves beat the Barrie Colts 9-6 on Dec. 1st. He’s recorded at least a point in every game since Nov. 15th., the longest point streak by a Wolves blueliner in the last 25 years of OHL history. DeAngelis becomes the first Wolves blueliner to earn OHL Defenceman of the Month honours since Jack Thompson in October 2021.

A 19-year-old from King City, Ont., DeAngelis leads the Wolves offensively from the back end with 29 points (2-27–29) over 33 games this season along with a plus/minus rating of plus-13. The third-year veteran has registered a total of eight goals, 60 assists, and 68 points over 163 regular season contests spent between the Wolves and the Windsor Spitfires. The 6-foot-2, 195Ib. left-shot defenceman was originally selected in the second round (36th overall) by the Spitfires in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection before joining the Wolves this season. He attended training camp with the Columbus Blue Jackets in September.

Also considered for the award, Vancouver Canucks prospect and OHL scoring leader Hunter Brzustewicz (1-14–15) of the Kitchener Rangers and 2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam Dickinson (6-9–15) of the London Knights each registered 15 points in the month of December.

Goaltender of the Month – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves)

Marcus Vandenberg of the Sudbury Wolves is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for December, playing to a 6-2-1-1 record with a 3.07 goals-against average and .901 save percentage over 10 games spent between Sudbury and the Niagara IceDogs. Vandenberg, who was acquired by Sudbury on Dec. 8th after backstopping Niagara to wins over Kitchener and Peterborough to begin the month, proceeded to win his first two starts with Sudbury in wins over Kingston and Flint. He ended December with consecutive wins, making 22 saves in a victory over North Bay on Dec. 29th and 33 stops in Sault Ste. Marie as the Wolves defeated the West Division-leading Greyhounds 5-1 on Dec. 30th. Vandenberg is the first Wolves goaltender to claim the honour since Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen in December 2018.

A 19-year-old from Dorchester, Ont., Vandenberg has played to a season mark of 7-8-3-1 with a 3.61 goals-against average and .888 save percentage between Sudbury and Niagara. Selected by the Kitchener Rangers in the ninth round (177th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Vandenberg has appeared in 49 career regular season contests, tallying a 16-20-5-1 record, 3.71 goals-against average and .889 save percentage over three seasons.

Also considered for the award this month, Oshawa Generals netminder Jacob Oster played to a 5-2-1-0 record with a 2.76 goals-against-average and .898 save percentage. Brayden Gillespie of the Guelph Storm also remained solid between the pipes, recording a 5-3-1-0 record with a 2.83 goals-against-average and .900 save percentage.

Rookie of the Month – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)

Brantford Bulldogs forward Jake O’Brien is the OHL Rookie of the Month, recording 15 points, including three goals and 12 assists over 10 appearances in December. O’Brien registered five multi-point showings over the course of the month, tallying 10 points in his last four games. He recorded a career-high three-point showing on Dec. 28th in a 5-4 win over the Oshawa Generals, followed by another three-point showing on Dec. 31st. O’Brien now ranks second among all OHL rookie skaters in points, registering 28 (5-23-28) through 27 games this season. O’Brien becomes the first Bulldogs player to be named OHL Rookie of the Month since Matthew Strome in March 2016.

A 16-year-old from Toronto, Ont., O’Brien currently ranks second in OHL rookie scoring with 28 points (5-23–28) through 27 games this season. The Toronto, Ont. native was selected eighth overall by the Bulldogs in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 AAA program. Crowned a 2023 OHL Cup champion, the 6-foot-1, 165Ib. forward was awarded the tournament’s Most Valuable Player Award, registering 17 points (7-10-17) through seven games played last spring.

Also considered for the award, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam O’Reilly of the London Knights was also a front-runner, collecting 15 points (3-12–15) over 11 games in December.

2023-24 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
December – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
November – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)

Defenceman of the Month:
December – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers)

Goaltender of the Month:
December – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)

Rookie of the Month:
December – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
November – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

DICKINSON AND GILLESPIE NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, December 31, 2023.



Knights’ Sam Dickinson Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam Dickinson of the London Knights is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording three goals, five assists and eight points over three games as the Knights went a perfect 3-0.

A 6-foot-3, 195Ib. left-shot defender, Dickinson put together the first of three straight multi-point outings on Thursday in Sarnia, recording a pair of assists in London’s 6-2 win over the Sting. Dickinson set a new career-high on Friday, posting two goals and two assists for four points as the Knights defeated the Sting 5-1. Dickinson was the game’s first star as he finished with six shots on goal and a plus/minus rating of plus-3. Dickinson closed out the week with a goal and an assist in Sunday’s 5-3 triumph over the Flint Firebirds, extending London’s winning streak to six games as the Knights enter 2024 sitting second in the Midwest Division. Dickinson was second among all OHL skaters with 18 shots on goal last week.

A 17-year-old from Toronto, Ont., Dickinson sits fourth among OHL blueliners with 34 points (11-23–34) over 35 games this season. His 118 shots on goal are the third-highest total among OHL rearguards. The former fourth overall pick of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection was voted to the OHL’s first all-rookie team last season after putting up 23 points (9-14–23) in 62 games. He was a big part of London’s success in the playoffs, helping them win a Western Conference title with eight points (4-4–8) in 21 playoff outings. Dickinson is currently an A-rated skater by NHL Central Scouting for the 2024 NHL Draft. He’s been selected to compete in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game set to take place in Moncton, NB on Wednesday, January 24th.

Also considered for the award this week, Owen Sound Attack overage forward Deni Goure set a new single game franchise record in Thursday’s 10-2 win over the Niagara IceDogs, with his eight points (3-5–8) in that game contributing to a total of 10 over three contests this week as the Attack went 1-2-0-0. Draft eligible Kingston Frontenacs forward Jacob Battaglia was also productive, recording seven points (2-5–7) in just two games last week.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)



Storm’s Brayden Gillespie Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Guelph Storm netminder Brayden Gillespie has been named the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season after he went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .947 save percentage in a pair of starts last week.

Gillespie came out of the holiday break with a first star effort on Thursday against Erie, stopping 28-of-29 in a 3-1 Storm win over the Otters. Gillespie backstopped Guelph to a fifth-straight win on Saturday, making 26 saves as the Storm defeated the Flint Firebirds 3-2 at the Dort Financial Center.

An 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Gillespie currently leads the OHL with a 2.69 goals-against average to go with a record of 17-9-1-1 with a .909 save percentage and one shutout over 29 games. The 5-foot-11, 173Ib. Gillespie was Guelph’s 11th round (207th overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. He split the 2022-23 season between the Storm, where he went 13-6-2-1 with a 3.40 goals-against average and .879 save percentage, and the GOJHL’s Ayr Centennials, where he played in 23 contests. Gillespie previously won the award this season during the week of Oct. 16-22.

Also considered for the award this week, London Knights goaltender Michael Simpson played to a 3-0 record with a 2.00 goals-against average and .910 save percentage as he earned wins over Sarnia and Flint. Also receiving consideration was Liam Sztuska of the Peterborough Petes, who registered a 52-save shutout victory on Sunday. He’d finish the week with a 2.86 goals-against average, .930 save percentage and record of 1-2-0-0.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.