Mason Zebeski of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HT
WT
DOB
POS
SH
OHL DRAFT
NHLCS
NAT
6’1”
186
Oct 4, 2005
LW
L
208th, 2021
103rd N.A.
CAN
SEASON
LEAGUE
TEAM
GP
G
A
PTS
2019-2020
SCTA U15
Oakville Rangers
25
8
8
16
2021-2022
OJHL
Oakville Blades
49
11
10
21
2022-2023
OHL
Mississauga Steelheads
66
5
6
11
2023-2024
OHL
Mississauga Steelheads
55
24
11
35
I am uncertain about Mason Zebeski’s draft placement, if any, but I think NHL Central Scouting has him placed too high compared to others who have ranked him too low.
Zebeski has not been a significant scorer in any of the levels where he has competed. Currently, he serves as a supporting player who can provide a high level of enthusiasm. He possesses strong skating abilities with rapid accelerations and utilizes his speed and strong work ethic to excel as a successful forechecker. He is unreserved in using his physical presence and positioning himself in front of the net to disrupt play.
Zebeski shows strong defensive skills and excels at penalty killing. If he reaches the NHL, he has the potential to serve as a reliable fourth-line player, contributing energy, defensive prowess, penalty-killing abilities, and occasional offense.
Nathan Aspinall of the Flint Firebirds. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HT
WT
DOB
POS
SH
OHL DRAFT
NHLCS
NAT
6’7”
189
Mar 30, 2006
LW
L
33rd 2022
102nd N. A.
CAN
SEASON
LEAGUE
TEAM
GP
G
A
PTS
2021-2022
ETAHL U16
Markham Waxers
27
17
22
39
2022-2023
OHL
Flint Firebirds
29
1
3
4
2023-2024
OHL
Flint Firebirds
65
18
16
34
Nathan Aspinall’s notable feature is his size. With his current physical build, he could enhance his performance in board battles and in front of the opposition net by adding some bulk. Nevertheless, his consistency at this level needs improvement.
Aspinall is a skilled skater despite his large size. He excels at moving in a straight line and has the ability to reach his intended destinations on the ice. He demonstrates strong awareness on the ice, exhibits proficient close-handling skills, possesses a powerful shot, showcases excellent vision, and has a high hockey IQ to complement his abilities.
Aspinall lacks a standout skill that guarantees his future as an NHL player, but scouts will appreciate his size. He is a player without clear concerns, and with more experience and added muscle, his physicality and work ethic could make him a hidden gem in the draft.
Kieron Walton of the Sudbury Wolves. Photo by OHL Images.
HT
WT
DOB
POS
SH
OHL DRAFT
NHLCS
NAT
6’6”
210
Apr22, 2006
LW
L
28th 2022
117th N.A.
CAN
SEASON
LEAGUE
TEAM
GP
G
A
PTS
2021-2022
AAA U16
North York Rangers
43
33
27
60
2022-2023
OHL
Sudbury Wolves
46
8
5
13
2023-2024
OHL
Sudbury Wolves
65
18
25
43
When analyzing Kieron Walton, it is important to move past the statistics, despite them being satisfactory. His performance can be deemed as acceptable, especially when taking into account the Sudbury Wolves’ roster depth and the challenging circumstances that sometimes-hindered Walton’s point output.
Walton’s height is the initial standout feature, as he is tall and already well-proportioned. Despite his size, he is a strong skater with impressive speed. His ability to strategize at a high level, paired with his speed and size, positions him as a dominant player in both the cycle game and on the rush.
Walton’s scoring abilities are well-established, but it is his playmaking skills that could truly shine. His proficiency in puck possession, combined with his size that makes him difficult to dispossess, high hockey IQ, and exceptional vision, may elevate his playmaking to his standout strength.
Walton’s size is bound to attract attention on its own. When you consider his skating ability, he becomes even more fascinating. You simply need to believe that you have witnessed enough potential in his limited role to anticipate much more in the future.
TSN will air complete coverage of all three of the CHL’s member leagues (WHL, OHL & QMJHL) Championship Series, while RDS will showcase the entire QMJHL Championship Series
TORONTO, ON — With the remaining six teams set to compete for both their league title and a spot in the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is excited to announce that viewers will be able to catch the entirety of the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) Championship Series on TSN and RDS.
Starting tomorrow (May 9), TSN will provide complete coverage of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series, while RDS will showcase the entire QMJHL Championship Series – the latter of which also gets started tomorrow (see the full schedule for each Championship Series below). Full coverage of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series will also be available on CHL TV to fans worldwide, while select games will air on NHL Network in the United States.
Each champion from the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL will earn a place alongside the host Saginaw Spirit at the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow from May 23 – June 2 in Saginaw, Michigan. Every game of this year’s 2024 Memorial Cup will air on TSN and RDS in Canada and be available via live stream on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In addition to full coverage in Canada on TSN and RDS, the 2024 Memorial Cup will be available in the United States on NHL Network, and for subscribers of CHL TV outside of North America.
2024 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien Ed Chynoweth Cup
Moose Jaw Warriors (in search of their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance) Portland Winterhawks (five Memorial Cup Appearances – 1982, 1983, 1986, 1998 & 2013; two Memorial Cup titles – 1983 & 1998)
In the WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien, the Moose Jaw Warriors will be looking to secure their first-ever Ed Chynoweth Cup in franchise history, while the Portland Winterhawks will be aiming for their fourth WHL championship title since the franchise arrived in Portland in 1976. Set to play in their first WHL final in 18 years, the Warriors have been on a tear since February 23, having collected 22 wins and just three regulation losses over their last 29 contests. During the postseason, Moose Jaw has been led by WHL Defenceman of the Year and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Denton Mateychuk (8G-19A in 16 GP), along with Seattle Kraken prospect and the CHL’s regular-season scoring leader Jagger Firkus (12G-15A in 16 GP), who both sit tied for first in the WHL with 27 points during the playoffs. The Warriors have also enjoyed key contributions throughout the postseason from Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Brayden Yager (10G-11A in 16 GP), Buffalo Sabres prospect Matthew Savoie (8G-12A in 15 GP), and 20-year-old Atley Calvert (6G-9A in 16 GP). Meanwhile, on the other side, the Winterhawks are playing in their first WHL Championship Series in 10 years, thanks in part to the performance of 2023 Detroit Red Wings first-rounder Nate Danielson (5G-16A in 14 GP) who leads the team in scoring. Portland finished the 2023-24 campaign as the highest-scoring team in the CHL, averaging 4.85 goals per game. Their roster features seven NHL prospects including Edmonton Oilers prospect James Stefan (7G-8A in 14 GP), Seattle Kraken prospect Tyson Jugnauth (4G-11A in 14 GP), and Philadelphia Flyers prospect Carter Sotheran (4G-7A in 14 GP). The Winterhawks have also enjoyed strong goaltending from netminder Jan Špunar who figures among the WHL leaders in GAA (2.32) and SV% (.923) during the postseason.
2024 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien Schedule Game 1^ – Friday, May 10 – Moose Jaw at Portland – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN4/5) Game 2^ – Saturday, May 11 – Moose Jaw at Portland – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN3/4) Game 3^ – Tuesday, May 14 – Portland at Moose Jaw – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT Game 4^ – Wednesday, May 15 – Portland at Moose Jaw – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT Game 5*^ – Friday, May 17 – Portland at Moose Jaw – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT Game 6*^ – Sunday, May 19 – Moose Jaw at Portland – Time To Be Confirmed Game 7*^ – Monday, May 20 – Moose Jaw at Portland – Time To Be Confirmed
* = if necessary ^ = TSN national broadcast Channel designations are subject to change TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed
2024 OHL Championship Series Ross Robertson Cup
London Knights (five Memorial Cup appearances – 2005, 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2016; two Memorial Cup titles – 2005 & 2016) Oshawa Generals (12 Memorial Cup appearances – 1938, 1939, 1940, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1966, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1997 & 2015; five Memorial Cup titles – 1939, 1940, 1944, 1990 & 2015)
The London Knights are back in the OHL Championship Series for a second straight year, once again vying for a fifth J. Ross Robertson Cup. Standing in their way are the Oshawa Generals who will be looking to add to the record 13 OHL Championship titles that they have accrued in club history. London was just one of four teams in the CHL to win 50 games this season and they earned the 2023-24 Hamilton Spectator Trophy as the OHL’s regular season champions. So far through three rounds, the Knights have enjoyed strong performances in the postseason from San Jose Sharks prospect Kasperi Haltunnen (9G-6A in 14 GP), Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan (7G-12A in 14 GP), and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Max McCue (2G-15A in 14 GP). London is also backstopped by last year’s 2023 OHL Playoff MVP, Michael Simpson, who enters the OHL Championship Series with a 2.59 GAA and .911 SV%. Meanwhile, 2023 Colorado Avalanche first-round pick and Generals forward Calum Ritchie (6G-19A in 17 GP) leads all active players remaining in the OHL Playoffs with 25 points through 17 games. His teammate, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Beckett Sennecke (10G-12A in 16 GP), stands behind him with 22 points, while New York Rangers prospect Dylan Roobroeck (10G-11A in 17 GP) ranks fifth among OHL skaters in playoff scoring with 21 points. 2024 OHL Goaltender of the Year Jacob Oster has carried over his excellent play from the regular season into the postseason as the Oshawa netminder ranks second in GAA (2.29) and third in SV% (.923) among OHL goaltenders in the playoffs. The Generals, who will be playing in their first OHL Championship Series since 2015, won 31 of their final 43 games (31-7-4-1) in the regular season to climb out from the bottom of the standings to secure first place in both their division and conference ahead of the playoffs.
2024 OHL Championship Series Schedule Game 1^ – Thursday, May 9 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN3) Game 2^ – Saturday, May 11 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN3) Game 3^ – Monday, May 13 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT Game 4^ – Wednesday, May 15 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT Game 5*^ – Friday, May 17 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT Game 6*^ – Sunday, May 19 – London at Oshawa – Time To Be Confirmed Game 7*^ – Monday, May 20 – Oshawa at London – Time To Be Confirmed
* = if necessary ^ = TSN national broadcast Channel designations are subject to change TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed
2024 QMJHL Championship Series Gilles-Courteau Trophy
Baie-Comeau Drakkar (in search of their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance) Drummondville Voltigeurs (three Memorial Cup appearances – 1988, 1991 & 2009)
In the QMJHL, the Baie-Comeau Drakkar are in search of both their first Gilles-Courteau Trophy and Memorial Cup appearance in franchise history, while the Drummondville Voltigeurs are looking to earn a second QMJHL Championship title having previously won in 2009. With a franchise-record 53 wins this season, the Drakkar won more games than any club in the CHL and they gave up the fewest amount of goals alongside the Saskatoon Blades, as both clubs allowed just 2.40 goals per game during the 2023-24 campaign. Set to play in their third QMHJL final and their first one since 2014, Baie-Comeau has been led in the playoffs by 2024 NHL Draft prospect Justin Poirier (17G-8A in 13 GP) who has registered a QMJHL-leading 17 goals and 25 points through three rounds. His 17 goals this postseason are the most by a 17-year-old QMJHL skater in 44 years (Dale Hawerchuk – Cornwall Royals – 20 goals in 1980). Right behind Poirier, sitting in second in scoring during the QMJHL playoffs, is New York Islanders prospect Justin Gill (10G-14A in 13 GP) with 24 points, while Latvian defenceman Niks Fenenko (4G-11A in 13 GP) leads all QMJHL defencemen with 15 points. The Drakkar’s goaltending has also been a position of strength through the playoffs as Charles-Édward Gravel ranks first among QMJHL goalies in GAA (1.89) and third in SV% (.924) during the postseason. Conversely, Voltigeurs netminder Riley Mercer has been excellent for Drummondville. With a QMJHL-best .927 SV% and a solid 2.07 GAA through 15 games, Mercer has played a big part in helping the Voltigeurs ascend to their fifth QMJHL Championship Series in franchise history. Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Ethan Gauthier (10G-10A in 15 GP) leads all Voltigeurs skaters with 20 points in the playoffs, while Philadelphia Flyers prospect Alexis Gendron (8G-5A in 11 GP) has collected 13 points in 11 playoff games since returning from injury. Averaging 4.5 goals per game, the Voltigeurs were the highest-scoring team in the QMJHL this season. Drummondville was also one of eight teams in the CHL to top the 100-point plateau, having accomplished the feat for only the fourth time in franchise history and for the first time since 2019.
2024 QMJHL Championship Series Schedule Game 1# – Thursday, May 9 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS2 & TSN2) Game 2# – Friday, May 10 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS & TSN5) Game 3# – Monday, May 13 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS) Game 4# – Tuesday, May 14 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS) Game 5*# – Thursday, May 16 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS) Game 6*# – Saturday, May 18 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS) Game 7*# – Tuesday, May 21 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)
* = if necessary # = RDS & TSN national broadcast Channel designations are subject to change TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs is the 2023-24 recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy presented annually to the OHL’s Humanitarian of the Year.
Through his “Mason’s Miracles” initiative, Vaccari has raised more than $13,200 for the Pediatric Wing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, a figure that will continue to grow into the summer.
At the outset of the season, Vaccari prioritized using his athletic gifts to make an impact in the lives of children, setting up various fundraising initiatives to benefit the local hospital. He started by donating .50 cents of his own money for each of the 1,458 saves he’d go on to make during the 2023-24 season, a figure that would be matched by generous community supporters. Members of the Kingston hockey community donated at a link created through canadahelps.org throughout the season, further bolstering Vaccari’s fundraising efforts.
The 19-year-old goaltender also went to great lengths to form personal connections with young patients in the Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s Pediatric Wing, making visits there on off-days throughout the season.
“Being recognized with this award is truly an honour,” said Vaccari. “When the idea of Mason’s Miracles first started, the goal was to give back to the community that has given my teammates and I a home away from home. I’m very proud to have surpassed our goal of raising $10,000 for the Pediatric ward and am confident that this money will go a long way toward making a difference for children needing care at the hospital.
“I’d especially like to thank Charette Custom Homes for believing in me, this mission, and matching my donations over the course of the year. I’d also like to thank the doctors, nurses and families who allowed my teammates and I to spend time with and get to know some of the children within the ward. I really enjoyed my visits and these were some of my favourite memories of the season.
Finally, I’d like to thank everyone including my family, friends, billets, the rest of the Frontenacs organization, and everyone else who has made a donation online, contributed their time to get the word out, and sent me messages of encouragement along the way. I am so grateful for your support and I couldn’t have accomplished any of this without you.”
An 89 percent student in his final semester of high school, Vaccari quickly enrolled in online university prep courses including Economics and Human Development to close out 2023-24. He got creative in his fundraising work, holding a design-a-mask contest that continues to raise funds through an online auction that is still ongoing here.
“We are extremely proud of Mason for his efforts in our community,” said Frontenacs General Manager Kory Cooper. “When players arrive in Kingston, we stress the importance of being involved in the community and being good people on and off the ice. Mason has taken that to the next level this season. He provides us with a great example of what players in our organization and our league can accomplish with their platform. Mason is deserving of this award, and he should be proud of what he has accomplished with Mason’s Miracles.”
Vaccari, who hails from Mississauga, Ont., was busy in the crease as well, appearing in 59 games while going 27-27-3-0 with a 3.55 goals-against average and .880 save percentage. His 1,458 saves were the fourth-most in the OHL this season. The former fourth round pick by Kingston in 2021 has played to a career regular season mark that includes a record of 38-41-3-0 with a 3.54 goals-against average and .887 save percentage over 88 games.
Vaccari was the front-runner for this year’s OHL Humanitarian of the Year Award, with North Bay Battalion defenceman Ty Nelson finishing as the runner-up for his tremendous efforts with Community Living North Bay.
Each year the OHL awards a player that has demonstrated outstanding qualities as a positive role model in the community with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. The Ontario Hockey League Board of Governors announced in 2004 that the OHL Humanitarian of the Year award would be named in recognition of the former Owen Sound Platers captain, who was twice named his team’s Humanitarian of the Year in recognition of his tremendous efforts in supporting community activities.
Vaccari follows Andrew Raycroft (1999-2000) and David Ling (1994-95) to become the third player in Frontenacs franchise history to win the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. Other recent OHL recipients include Dalyn Wakely of the North Bay Battalion (2022-23) and Mark Woolley of the Owen Sound Attack (2021-22).
Vaccari will be the OHL’s nominee for the Canadian Hockey League Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented at the CHL Awards Ceremony on Saturday, June 1 during the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow which takes place in Saginaw, Michigan from May 24 through June 2. Vaccari will be formally presented with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy at the OHL Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
For a complete list of OHL award winners, click here.
“For many kids, coming to the hospital for care or treatment can be scary. One of the goals of our team is to make the hospital stay as positive as possible. When Mason offered to spend some time visiting patients, he didn’t just brighten their afternoon – he made a positive impact on their entire hospital experience. This was especially apparent when visiting patients in our pediatric oncology playroom. Here he spent time playing mini-sticks, bubble hockey & video games with a handful of hockey-obsessed kids, bursting with excitement to face-off against a real OHL goalie.
Our hospitals rely on the generosity of donors to fund things like equipment and patient care items. Mason’s fundraising and monetary donation has the potential to make an impact on young patients for years to come and goes a long way in inspiring a culture of philanthropy among his peers and fans.”
– Erika Kooi (Program Manager – Pediatrics, NICU & Child Life at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre)
Oshawa, Ont. – The Oshawa Generals had their hands full with the North Bay Battalion in the Eastern Conference Championship Series, but managed to avert disappointment with an impressive 6-1 victory in Game 7 on Monday night at the Tribute Communities Centre.
New York Rangers prospect Dylan Roobroeck had two goals and an assist as the Generals halted the Battalion, who entered the seventh and deciding game on the heels of three consecutive wins, looking to overcome a 3-0 series deficit. Sunday’s Game 6 outcome saw the Battalion win by a score of 8-1.
“The kids were incredible tonight, starting with Jacob Oster,” said Generals head coach Derek Laxdal. “He set the tone right off the hop. We got that first goal and I thought our guys did an incredible job of checking and shutting down North Bay tonight.
“You gotta give the kids a lot of credit. They believed that they could win Game 7 at home today. It was a tough game getting beat 8-1, but for them to respond that way today, I’m very proud of them as a coach. In all my years coaching that was one of the best efforts I’ve seen in a Game 7 to shut down the other team.”
Defenceman David Bedkowski opened the scoring with his first career OHL playoff goal coming with 5:53 remaining in the first period. Rasmus Kumpulainen and Connor Lockhart scored in the second to give Oshawa a 3-0 lead after 40 minutes.
Roobroeck scored his first of two 2:08 into the third before North Bay’s Jacob LeBlanc spoiled Oster’s shutout bid just under four minutes later. Roobroeck scored his 10th of the postseason before Ethan Toms hit the empty net in the game’s final minute to seal the 6-1 final.
The Generals win their first Bobby Orr Trophy since 2015, their second since the trophy was first awarded in 1999. They advance to the OHL Championship Series following series victories over the Barrie Colts, Ottawa 67’s and North Bay Battalion.
The Troops see their playoff run come to an end after they eliminated Kingston and Sudbury to reach their third consecutive East Final. It marks the second straight year they’ve fallen in Game 7.
“The entire playoff run with this team, I’m just so impressed with our guys,” said Battalion head coach Ryan Oulahen. “I’m proud of our team and our players. We came up a little bit short once again but we’re going to talk about this team for decades – the way we’ve been able to change the culture and make North Bay a destination for people to want to come and play for the Battalion.”
The Battalion played to a regular season mark of 39-20-7-2, winning a third straight Central Division title. Overage players in captain Liam Arnsby, Paul Christopoulos and Justin Ertel skated in their final OHL contest.
The Oshawa Generals advance to the 2024 OHL Championship Series as they face the London Knights in an encounter that begins on Thursday night in London. The series will be broadcast in its entirety on TSN, the official broadcast partner of the Canadian Hockey League.
Generals captain Stuart Rolofs was presented with the Bobby Orr Trophy by OHL Vice President Cole Butterworth. The Generals won a previous Eastern Conference title in 2015 en route to their 13th OHL championship, the most by any of the league’s 20 teams.
All-time Generals great Eric Lindros was on-hand to conduct the ceremonial faceoff prior to a Game 7 played before a crowd of 5,694 at the Tribute Communities Centre.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the schedule of games for the 2024 OHL Championship Series that is set to take place between the Western Conference champion London Knights and the Eastern Conference champion Oshawa Generals.
Oshawa advanced to the OHL Championship Series following a 6-1 win over the North Bay Battalion in a Monday night Game 7 matchup, winning their first Bobby Orr Trophy since 2015, the same year they won a Memorial Cup title. Oshawa has eliminated the Barrie Colts, Ottawa 67’s and North Bay Battalion thus far on their playoff quest.
The Knights come off their second-straight Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference Champions, eliminating the Saginaw Spirit in six games. The Knights reached last year’s OHL Championship Final before falling in six games to the Peterborough Petes. London eliminated the Flint Firebirds and Kitchener Rangers with consecutive series sweeps before besting Saginaw in the West Final.
The 2024 OHL Championship Series will be broadcast in its entirety on TSN, the official broadcast partner of the Canadian Hockey League. Games can also be seen live online across Canada at ohllive.com.
2024 OHL Championship Series Schedule: Game 1 – Thursday, May 9th at London, 7:00pm Game 2 – Saturday, May 11th at London, 7:00pm Game 3 – Monday, May 13th at Oshawa, 7:00pm Game 4 – Wednesday, May 15th at Oshawa, 7:00pm Game 5 – Friday, May 17th at London, 7:00pm* Game 6 – Sunday, May 19th at Oshawa, Time To Be Confirmed* Game 7 – Monday, May 20th at London, Time To Be Confirmed*
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, May 5th, 2024.
Battalion’s Sandis Vilmanis Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Florida Panthers prospect Sandis Vilmanis of the North Bay Battalion is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording four goals, five assists and nine points in four games played.
Helping the Battalion rally to force a Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Championship Series, Vilmanis started off the week with a goal in a 5-2 loss to the Oshawa Generals on Monday. The 6-foot-2, 192lb. forward tallied a pair of goals including the overtime winner along with two assists to earn first star honours on Wednesday, helping the Battalion skate to a 5-4 overtime win at home. He recorded another assist on Friday as the Battalion clinched a 5-4 double overtime victory. Vilmanis closed out the week with a goal and two helpers in a dominant 8-1 win on Sunday, leading the Battalion to tie the series 3-3 heading into Game 7 on Monday night.
A 20-year-old from Riga, Latvia, Vilmanis leads all post-season point-getters with 26 points (10-16–26) in 15 playoff contests following a regular season that yielded 38 goals, 29 assists and 67 points over 60 games played between the Battalion and the Sarnia Sting. A former first round pick by Sarnia in the 2022 CHL Import Draft, Vilmanis was selected by the Florida Panthers in the fifth round (157th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the club on March 2, 2024. Vilmanis has also participated on the international stage, representing Latvia at three consecutive IIHF World Junior Championships.
Also considered for the award this week, Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan of the London Knights helped his team skate to a 4-2 Western Conference Final Series victory over the Saginaw Spirit, recording four goals and four assists in four games played. Battalion teammate and Seattle Kraken prospect Ty Nelson was also a standout, registering two goals, five assists and seven points.
2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs: Apr. 29 – May 5: Sandis Vilmanis (North Bay Battalion) Apr. 22 – Apr. 28: Kasper Halttunen (London Knights) Apr. 15 – Apr. 21: Jacob Julien (London Knights) Apr. 8 – Apr. 14: Dylan Roobroeck (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 1 – Apr. 7: Samuel Mayer (Ottawa 67’s) Mar. 28 – Mar. 31: Owen Beck (Saginaw Spirit)
2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season: Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves) Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights) Mar. 4 – Mar. 10: Dylan Roobroeck (Oshawa Generals) Feb. 26 – Mar. 3: Jacob Maillet (Ottawa 67’s) Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers) Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Rodwin Dionicio (Saginaw Spirit) Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves) Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Gavin Bryant (Niagara IceDogs) 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)
Battalion’s Mike McIvor Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Rookie netminder Mike McIvor of the North Bay Battalion is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season, playing to a 3-1 record along with a 3.13 goals-against average, and .902 save percentage.
Helping the Battalion bounce back in the Eastern Conference Championship Series, McIvor made a total of 129 saves last week. He stopped 26 of the 31 shots he faced on Monday as the Battalion fell 5-2 to the Oshawa Generals. McIvor earned the Battalion’s first win of the series on Wednesday, blocking 27 of the 31 shots that came his way in a 5-4 overtime victory. The 6-foot, 165lb. netminder returned to the crease with a big performance on Friday, turning aside 41 of the 45 shots he faced to clinch a 5-4 double overtime win. McIvor closed out the week with a 35-save performance on Sunday as the Battalion defeated the Generals in a commanding 8-1 victory to push the series to Game 7.
An 18-year-old from Warkworth, Ont., McIvor played to a regular season mark of 8-9-0-0 with a 3.78 goals-against average and .876 save percentage over 18 games in his first OHL season. A fourth round (83rd overall) pick by the Battalion in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Quinte Red Devils U16 program, McIvor has appeared in 14 playoff contests, playing to a 10-4 record along with a 2.58 goals-against average and .917 save percentage with one shutout.
Also considered for the award this week, Michael Simpson of the London Knights went 2-2 along with a 3.79 goals-against average and .899 save percentage to take a 4-2 Western Conference Championship Series victory over the Saginaw Spirit. Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Nolan Lalonde of the Saginaw Spirit also played to a 2-2 record along with a 3.05 goals-against average and .879 save percentage.
2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs: Apr. 29 – May 5: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion) Apr. 22 – Apr. 28: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 15 – Apr. 21: Charlie Schenkel (Soo Greyhounds) Apr. 8 – Apr. 14: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion) Apr. 1 – Apr. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals) Mar. 28 – Mar. 31: Jakub Vondras (Sudbury Wolves)
2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season: Mar. 18 – Mar. 24: Nick Surzycia (Sarnia Sting) Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: Charlie Robertson (Niagara IceDogs) Mar. 4 – Mar. 10: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads) Feb. 26 – Mar. 3: Liam Sztuska (Peterborough Petes) Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Michael Simpson (London Knights) Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs) Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Ben West (Barrie Colts) Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Owen Willmore (London Knights) 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)
Saginaw, Mich. – Easton Cowan recorded two goals and an assist and Jackson Edward scored the third period game-winner as the London Knights defeated the Saginaw Spirit 4-2 at the Dow Event Center to be crowned Western Conference Champions for the second straight year.
Sam O’Reilly also scored for the Knights while Denver Barkey and Max McCue each had a pair of assists. Michael Simpson made 33 saves in the win as London prevailed despite being outshot 35-26.
The Knights become the first team to win back-to-back Wayne Gretzky Trophies since the franchise last did so in 2012 and 2013.
“We had a total team game going,” said Knights head coach Dale Hunter. “Our big guns came out and played really well and the young guys who came in and filled spots played really well too.”
The Knights opened the West Final with back-to-back 3-1 wins on home ice before the Spirit skated to a 6-2 victory in Game 3. The Knights came back strong, defeating Saginaw 7-3 on the road in Game 4 before the Spirit rallied to defeat London 4-2 at Budweiser Gardens in Game 5. The Knights sealed the deal on Sunday afternoon in mid-Michigan, capturing their eighth Wayne Gretzky Trophy in franchise history.
“I’m really proud of this team, they stuck with it,” said Easton Cowan. “We had guys in and out of the lineup. Everyone was playing different minutes. We had a really good team effort today and I’m really happy with how I played and how our guys played.”
The Knights have eliminated the Flint Firebirds, Kitchener Rangers and Saginaw Spirit and advance to the OHL Championship Series where they’ll face the winner of a Monday night Game 7 between the North Bay Battalion and host Oshawa Generals.
The Saginaw Spirit see their OHL playoff run come to an end as they turn their attention toward preparations for the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow that they’ll host starting May 24th.
The Spirit come off their most successful season in franchise history, playing to a record of 50-16-0-1 with 102 points. They bested the Owen Sound Attack and Soo Greyhounds before coming up short against London.
“I have nothing negative to say about our compete at all,” said Spirit head coach Chris Lazary. “I thought we played our hearts out. We hit a post late and could have tied the game there. We obviously didn’t see it ending today, but it’s not for lack of effort.
“It’s heartbreaking for the players, staff, fans, everybody,” Lazary continued. “This isn’t just the game of hockey for us, it’s our life. When you lose a game like that, if you’ve ever had everything put into one basket like that – it rips your heart out.
“Right now we’re just trying to catch our breath. The job’s not done. We’ve gotta come back and we’ll reset ourselves and we still have something here on the table to play for and the chance to end with this group as champions.”
The Wayne Gretzky Trophy was presented to Knights veterans Max McCue, Isaiah George and Jackson Edward by OHL Vice President Cole Butterworth. The Knights, who come off a fifth straight Midwest Division title this past season, claim the Wayne Gretzky Trophy following previous triumphs in 1999, 2005, 2006, 2012, 2013, 2016 and 2023.
ESPOO, FINLAND – MAY 5: Team Canada poses for a group photo with the championship trophy after a 6-4 Gold Medal Game win against Team USA at the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Metro Arena on May 5, 2024 in Espoo, Finland. (Photo by André Ringuette/IIHF)
TORONTO, ON — Today, 25 CHL players proudly won gold as Team Canada topped the podium at the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship by defeating the United States 6-4 in Sunday’s final in Espoo, Finland. The victory gave Canada its first gold medal at the IIHF U18 World Championship in three years. Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) scored a hat-trick and an assist in the Gold Medal game, while Tij Iginla (Kelowna Rockets / WHL) recorded three points (1G-2A) including the game-winning goal. Goaltender Carter George (Owen Sound Attack / OHL) was named Canada’s Player of the Game as he turned aside 31-of-35 shots against the United States.
Ultimately, Canada held a perfect 7-0 record during the tournament.
With 20 points (10G-10A) through seven games, 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna led all Canadian skaters at the event in both scoring and goals. McKenna’s 10 goals were the most of any player at the tournament and now stands as the most-ever by a Canadian at this event, beating the previous record of nine goals held by OHL alumnus Shane Wright. McKenna’s 20 points also established a new single-tournament record for points by a Canadian at the U18 World Championship by besting the previous mark of 15.
2025 NHL Draft prospect Porter Martone (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL) finished the event with 17 points (5G-12A) in seven games. Having now accrued 23 points (8G-15A) in 14 career games at the IIHF U18 World Championships, Martone set a new career scoring record by a Canadian by surpassing WHL alumnus Connor Bedard’s previous record of 21 points.
In net, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Carter George was named the top goaltender of the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship. He finished the tournament with a 2.33 goals against average and a .915 save percentage, both of which ranked second among all goalies at the U18 World Championship. As of result of their excellent performances, George, Martone, and McKenna were all named to the tournament all-star team and they were identified as Canada’s top three players at the event on Saturday.
Team Canada was led by former Saint John Sea Dogs bench boss and 2022 Memorial Cup champion Gardiner MacDougall who served as the squad’s head coach. He was joined on the bench by assistant coaches Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL) and Ryan Smith (Spokane Chiefs / WHL) along with goaltending coach Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL).
Since 2002, Canada has now won five gold medals at the IIHF U18 World Championship (2003, 2008, 2013, 2021, 2024), in addition to one silver (2005) and four bronze (2012, 2014, 2015, 2023). In total, there were 38 players from the CHL who competed in the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship including eight with Czechia, three with Switzerland, and one with Latvia and Slovakia.
38 CHL PLAYERS PARTICIPATED IN THE 2024 IIHF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
OHL Writers 