The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) final between the London Knights and Oshawa Generals is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown, steeped in history and fueled by high stakes. This year’s series marks a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s final, where London dominated Oshawa in a sweep. Both teams have been on a warpath this season, carving their way through the playoffs to set up another dramatic battle for the J. Ross Robertson Cup.
Last Season’s Final: London’s Domination
The 2024 OHL final was a one-sided affair, with the London Knights cruising to a 4-0 series sweep over the Generals. The Knights overwhelmed Oshawa with their firepower, outscoring them 31-9 in four games. Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan was the series MVP, finishing with 34 points in 18 playoff games. Oshawa struggled to find an answer to London’s relentless offense, and their goaltending simply couldn’t keep pace with the Knights’ relentless attack.
Now, a year later, the Generals are hungry for redemption. They’ve made adjustments, added depth, and refined their approach, hoping to avoid a repeat of last season’s heartbreak.
How They Got Here in 2025
Both teams have steamrolled through the playoffs, proving why they deserve to be in the final.
London Knights
London continues to be an OHL powerhouse, sweeping the Kitchener Rangers in the Western Conference final. In fact, the Knights are riding an incredible 17-game playoff win streak, dating back to last season.
Their offense has remained elite, led by Cowan, who has eight goals and 27 points in 12 playoff games. Defenseman Sam Dickinson, a San Jose Sharks prospect, has been a crucial presence on the blue line, shutting down opposing top scorers while contributing offensively. Meanwhile, goaltender Austin Elliott has held firm, sporting a 2.31 GAA and a .904 save percentage.
Oshawa Generals
Oshawa matched London’s dominance by sweeping the Barrie Colts in the Eastern Conference final. The Generals boast three of the top five playoff scorers, making them a far more dangerous team than they were last year.
Colby Barlow (13 goals, 29 points), Luca Marrelli (six goals, 31 points), and Beckett Sennecke (12 goals, 27 points) have been instrumental in Oshawa’s success. Goaltender Jacob Oster has been solid between the pipes, earning 12 wins with a 2.82 GAA.
This version of the Generals has more offensive firepower and a stronger defensive core compared to last year’s squad. Will it be enough to finally take down London?
Regular Season Matchups
The two teams met twice during the regular season, splitting their matchups:
December 6, 2024: Oshawa defeated London 5-3 in a statement win on the road.
March 2, 2025: London edged Oshawa 4-3, showcasing their resilience.
These matchups suggest this final will be far more competitive than last year’s one-sided sweep.
Players to Watch
London Knights
Easton Cowan (F) – London’s star forward, Cowan is a clutch player with elite playmaking skills.
Sam Dickinson (D) – two-way defenseman who plays a pivotal role in London’s structure.
Austin Elliott (G) – If Elliott keeps up his form, London will be nearly impossible to beat.
Oshawa Generals
Luca Marrelli (F, Columbus Blue Jackets prospect) – Leads the playoffs in points and is a nightmare for defenders.
Colby Barlow (F, Winnipeg Jets prospect) – A pure goal-scorer with an incredible finishing touch.
Jacob Oster (G) – The key to Oshawa’s defensive success—his ability to shut down London’s offensive weapons will determine this series.
Final Thoughts
This OHL final will be nothing short of spectacular. Oshawa is better prepared than last year, with more depth and confidence. London, however, remains the gold standard of the league, carrying their perfect playoff record into the championship series.
Can the Generals finally dethrone the Knights? Or will London continue their dynastic run? Buckle up—this series will be a thrilling battle for OHL supremacy.
Who do you think will come out on top?
OHL Writers 