Tanner Lam – Kitchener Rangers – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’10”160July 14, 2007RWR41st 2023159 NACan
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLKitchener Rangers61131831
2024-2025OHLKitchener Rangers67134053
Tanner Lam of the Kitchener Rangers. Photo by OHL Images.

In the rapidly changing world of junior hockey, Tanner Lam has emerged as a compelling figure ahead of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. A 2007-born right winger skating for the Kitchener Rangers, Lam was taken in the second round of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection and has since made significant strides in establishing himself as a standout in the league. With a sharp offensive mind, excellent awareness, and relentless hustle, Lam is steadily building a case as a sleeper pick with serious upside.

Offensive Skill Set

Lam’s offensive game is defined by his vision, anticipation, and knack for delivering crisp passes. He’s not a straight-line burner or a physical powerhouse. Instead, he thrives on unpredictability—creating passing options in broken plays, slipping into open ice unnoticed, and threading pucks through narrow lanes. His processing speed is elite, allowing him to quickly execute subtle feeds, behind-the-back passes, or deceptive dishes under pressure.

Skating and Mobility

While Lam’s top-end speed is average, his agility and directional changes allow him to be effective in tight quarters. His footwork enables slick maneuvers along the boards or in the slot, but his stride lacks the explosive burst that would give him separation on the rush. His skating mechanics could benefit from greater drive and improved glide efficiency.

To advance to the next level, Lam will need to bolster his leg strength and build more power into his stride. Even so, his elusive movement and ability to control pace in offensive cycles keep defenders on edge.

Hockey IQ and Playmaking

One of Lam’s biggest assets is his ability to read the ice and stay a step ahead of the play. He regularly picks apart defenses with creative passing, especially in layered or delayed setups. His passes often lead to high-danger chances, and he’s adept at finding his teammates through layers in the offensive zone.

He completes a high percentage of his passes, which is a strong indicator of his ability to manage possession and make clean decisions under duress. On the man advantage, he frequently plays the role of connector—linking plays from the half wall or below the goal line.

Defensive Play and Physicality

Lam is still refining his game on the defensive side. While he’s not careless without the puck, he can drift at times and lose track of his defensive responsibilities. His positioning and engagement away from the puck have shown improvement, but consistency remains a work in progress.

Standing at 5’10” and 160 pounds, Lam isn’t physically imposing, and he struggles in board battles and one-on-one situations against larger opponents. However, he plays with grit and doesn’t shy away from the dirty areas. His compete level is evident, even if the physical outcomes don’t always go his way.

Projection and Draft Outlook

Lam fits the mold of a middle-six playmaker at the pro level, with tools to contribute on the power play. His intelligence, offensive poise, and passing instincts align well with systems that prioritize puck movement and creativity. The next step in his development will involve building physical strength, improving his burst, and showing greater discipline in his own zone.

Currently considered a potential late-round NHL Draft selection, Lam’s development arc suggests he could outperform that status. If his skating and physical game take a step forward, he may become one of the better value picks of his class.

Lev Katzin – Guelph Storm – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’8”176May 13, 2007CL94th 2023142 NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2024-2025WJC U18Canada U1874610
2024-2025USHLGreen Bay Gamblers9246
2024-2025OHLGuelph Storm44163248
Lev Katzin of the Guelph Storm. Photo by CHL Images.

Born on May 13, 2007, in Thornhill, Ontario, Katzin has carved a unique path through the junior ranks, blending high-end offensive instincts with a relentless motor. At just 18 years old, he’s already played in multiple leagues, represented Canada on the international stage, and committed to a top NCAA program.

Katzin’s hockey roots trace back to the Toronto Marlboros U16 program, where he earned accolades such as the Buck Houle Award and the Seven Year Award during the 2022–23 season. His performance there caught the attention of OHL scouts, and in 2023, he was selected 94th overall by the Guelph Storm in the OHL Priority Selection.

Rather than immediately joining the OHL, Katzin opted to develop in the USHL, suiting up for the Green Bay Gamblers. His time in the USHL was brief but impactful, showcasing his ability to adapt quickly to higher levels of competition. In late 2024, he made the jump to the OHL, signing with the Guelph Storm and making an immediate splash.

In his first six games with Guelph, Katzin tallied five goals and 13 points — a blistering pace that turned heads across the league. Over the course of the 2024–25 season, he amassed 48 points (16 goals, 32 assists) in 44 games, averaging over 19 minutes of ice time per night and commanding top power-play duties.

Katzin’s offensive prowess wasn’t limited to league play. At the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship in Frisco, Texas, he was a key contributor for Team Canada, posting 4 goals and 6 assists in 7 games. Looking ahead, Katzin has committed to Penn State University for the 2025–26 season.

While Katzin’s size is below average for a pro-level forward, his low center of gravity and agility allow him to navigate tight spaces and evade defenders with ease.

Strengths

High-end Playmaking Vision

Katzin’s greatest asset is his ability to see the ice. He consistently threads passes through traffic and anticipates plays before they develop.

Puck Poise and Processing Speed

He completes most of his passes and recovers loose pucks at a high rate. His ability to slow the game down and dictate tempo is rare for a player his age.

Power Play Conductor

Katzin thrives with the man advantage, often operating from the half-wall where he can distribute the puck or attack the net. His deceptive edge work and body positioning make him a nightmare for penalty killers.

Agility and Elusiveness 

Uses quick cuts and misdirection to force defenders into mistakes. His skating is fluid, and he maintains control at top speed.

Areas for Improvement

Shot Efficiency

His shot lacks deception and quickness, and he often misses the net or gets blocked. Improving his release mechanics will be key to unlocking his full offensive potential.

Physical Durability

At 5’8″, Katzin takes his share of hits, and his 50/50 puck battles need to improve. He’ll need to add strength and improve his puck protection to withstand the rigors of pro hockey.

Defensive Consistency

Scouts have noted lapses in his defensive zone coverage and occasional emotional outbursts. Improving his off-puck awareness and discipline will be essential if he wants to earn trust in key situations. Must also cutdown on his giveaways.

Filip Ekberg – Ottawa 67’s – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHImport DraftNHLCSNAT
5’10”168Apr 14, 2025LWL33rd 2024178 NASWE
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2024-2025OHLOttawa 67’s53162945
Filip Ekberg of the Ottawa 67’s. Photo by OHL Images.

To be frank, I—like many independent scouting agencies—find NHL Central Scouting’s ranking of Ekberg perplexing and hard to justify. It’s possible they placed too much weight on his sluggish start to the season, which was understandably impacted by the challenges of adjusting to the North American game, compounded by early injuries and illness.

Born on April 14, 2007, in Uppsala, Sweden, Ekberg made the leap across the Atlantic to join the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL for the 2024–25 season. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 168 pounds, he may not be the most physically imposing player on the ice, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in skill, intelligence, and sheer determination.

Ekberg’s breakout moment came during the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship, where he led the tournament in scoring with 10 goals and 18 points in just seven games, setting a new Swedish record in the process. His performance helped Sweden secure its seventh consecutive medal at the event and left scouts buzzing about his NHL potential.

Let’s break down what makes Filip Ekberg such a compelling prospect.

Skating and Agility

Ekberg’s skating is one of his most noticeable assets. He has good acceleration, quick first steps, and the agility to weave through defenders with ease. His edge work allows him to change direction on a dime, making him a nightmare to contain in open ice. He’s not just fast—he’s elusive.

Stickhandling and Puck Control

If there’s one word to describe Ekberg’s hands, it’s silky. He can maneuver through traffic with the puck seemingly glued to his stick. His ability to force defenders into committing first, then exploit the opening with a quick move, is reminiscent of elite NHL playmakers. He’s patient, poised, and always calculating his next move.

Playmaking and Vision

Ekberg’s hockey IQ is high. He sees plays develop before they happen and has the passing touch to thread the puck through tight lanes. Whether it’s a no-look dish on the power play or a quick give-and-go in transition, he consistently puts his teammates in scoring positions.

Shooting and Scoring Touch

While not known for a booming slapshot, Ekberg’s wrist shot is accurate and deceptively quick. He doesn’t need much time or space to get it off, and when he shoots, he usually hits his mark. His ability to finish in tight, especially under pressure, makes him a dual threat as both a scorer and a setup man.

Defensive Awareness

Defensively is where Ekberg needs to improve. You can find yourself questioning his effort on the backcheck or in his own zone at times.

Physicality and Grit

At 5’10”, Ekberg isn’t going to overpower opponents, but he doesn’t shy away from contact. In fact, he’s shown a willingness to battle along the boards.

Final Thoughts

Filip Ekberg is the kind of player who makes you sit up in your seat. He’s dynamic, driven, and deceptively dangerous with the puck. While he still has areas to refine—particularly his physical play and defense—his ceiling is high.

Lucas Karmiris – Brampton Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’11”190Sep 27, 2006CR13th 2022151st NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads6361218
2023-2024OHLBrampton Steelheads62142943
2024-2025OHLBrampton Steelheads40132235
Lucas Karmiris of the Brampton Steelheads. Photo by OHL Images.

Born on September 27, 2006, in Brantford, Ontario, Lucas Karmiris has steadily carved out a name for himself in junior hockey. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing in at 190 pounds, the right-shooting center has become a big piece for the Brampton Steelheads of the Ontario Hockey League, showcasing a blend of tenacity, intelligence, and two-way reliability that has scouts taking notice ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Karmiris’ 2024–25 season was a rollercoaster. A mid-season injury sidelined him for nearly a month, limiting him to just 40 regular-season games. Despite the setback, he managed to post 35 points, nearly a point-per-game pace, and demonstrated a strong return to form late in the season. His game is built on relentless forechecking, smart puck support, and a willingness to battle in the tough areas of the ice. While not the flashiest player, his consistency and work ethic have made him a fan favorite in Brampton.

His playoff performance, however, left something to be desired. In six postseason games, Karmiris went scoreless and finished with a -5 rating. While this raised questions about his ability to elevate his game under pressure, it hasn’t overshadowed the promise he’s shown throughout the regular season.

As the NHL Draft approaches, Karmiris is projected to be a mid-round pick.

Overview: 

Lucas Karmiris is a competitive, two-way center whose game is built on structure, pace, and responsibility. While he may not dazzle with highlight-reel plays, his consistency and hockey sense make him a reliable presence in all three zones. He’s the kind of player coaches trust in key moments — especially on the penalty kill and in the faceoff circle.

Skating:

Karmiris plays a straight-line, north-south game with a powerful stride. His top-end speed is solid, and he uses it effectively to pressure defenders and drive the net. However, his lateral agility and edgework are still developing, which can limit his ability to create separation in tight spaces.

Puck Skills:

He has a clean first touch and can maintain possession under pressure. While not a dynamic puck handler, he makes smart, efficient plays and rarely overcomplicates things. His quick-release shot is deceptive, particularly when attacking off the rush.

Hockey IQ: 

One of his standout traits. Karmiris reads the game well, supports the puck intelligently, and anticipates plays on both sides of the puck. He’s especially effective at disrupting passing lanes and transitioning quickly from defense to offense.

Faceoffs & Special Teams: 

A major asset in the dot, Karmiris consistently wins over 55% of his draws. He’s also a dependable penalty killer, using smart positioning and active stickwork to break up plays and clear the zone.

Physicality & Compete Level: 

He’s not the biggest player on the ice, but he plays with a low center of gravity and doesn’t shy away from contact. He’s willing to battle along the boards and in front of the net, and his motor rarely dips — even late in games.

Areas for Growth:

– Needs to improve his agility and change-of-direction speed to become more elusive offensively. 

– Can be hesitant to take risks with the puck, which sometimes limits his offensive upside. 

– His playoff performance this past season was underwhelming, and he’ll need to show he can elevate his game when it matters most.

Carson Cameron – Peterborough Petes – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’2”193June 27, 2007DR13th 2023137th NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLPeterborough Petes5942226
2024-2025OHLPeterborough Petes6371623
Carson Cameron of the Peterborough Petes. Photo by OHL Images.

Born on June 27, 2007, in Bobcaygeon, Ontario, Carson Cameron has quietly carved out a chance in the NHL Draft. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing in at 193 pounds, Cameron has become a key figure on the blue line for the Peterborough Petes, showcasing a blend of poise, intelligence.

Cameron’s OHL journey began in the 2023–24 season, where he made an immediate impact as a rookie. In 59 games, he tallied 4 goals and 26 points—a solid debut that hinted at his potential as a puck-moving defenseman. His ability to read the game and make smart decisions under pressure quickly earned him the trust of his coaches, and he became a regular fixture on both the penalty kill and power play units.

The 2024–25 season brought new challenges. The Petes struggled to find consistency early on, and while Cameron’s point production dipped slightly to 7 goals and 23 points in 63 games, his overall development was evident. He logged heavy minutes, often exceeding 24 minutes per game, and was deployed in all situations. His leadership qualities began to shine through as well—he had previously captained teams at lower levels and represented Canada White at the U17 World Challenge, experiences that helped shape his mature, composed approach to the game.

Despite the team’s struggles, Cameron’s individual growth didn’t go unnoticed. His skating, particularly his east-to-west mobility and stop-and-go acceleration, allowed him to manipulate forecheckers and create clean exits from the defensive zone. His passing accuracy—hovering between 80–88% depending on the source—made him a reliable transition player.

Skating & Mobility

Cameron is a fluid skater with strong lateral agility and a quick first step. His edgework allows him to shift direction smoothly, especially when defending the rush or walking the offensive blue line. While his acceleration is solid, his stride can occasionally lose efficiency, particularly when recovering defensively. With refinement, he could become a more dynamic skater at both ends of the ice.

Puck Movement & Vision 

One of Cameron’s most reliable assets is his ability to move the puck with purpose. He sees the ice well and makes calculated decisions under pressure, often opting for smart, low-risk passes that maintain possession. His breakout passes are crisp and accurate, and he’s capable of threading pucks through tight seams to jumpstart the transition game.

Offensive Upside

Though not a high-octane offensive defenseman, Cameron contributes meaningfully in the attacking zone. He supports the rush effectively and isn’t afraid to activate from the point. His shot selection is improving, and he’s shown the ability to create traffic and rebound opportunities. On the power play, he’s a steady presence who can distribute the puck and keep plays alive with his poise.

Defensive Awareness

Defensively, Cameron is a work in progress. He plays with effort and doesn’t shy away from physical contact, but his positioning can be inconsistent. At times, he overcommits or loses track of his assignment, particularly when defending against quick puck movement. Improving his gap control and defensive reads will be key to unlocking his full potential.

Physical Play & Intangibles

Cameron brings a competitive edge to his game. He’s not a punishing hitter, but he engages physically and battles hard along the boards. His leadership qualities are evident—he’s worn letters at lower levels and represented Canada at the U17 level, which speaks to his maturity and character. Coaches trust him in high-leverage situations, and he’s shown the stamina to handle heavy minutes.

Caden Taylor – Peterborough Petes – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’3”185Mar 31, 2007LWL9th 2023131 NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLSudbury Wolves27145
2023-2024OHLPeterborough Petes3111718
2024-2025OHLPeterborough Petes68151631
Caden Taylor of the Peterborough Petes. Photo by OHL Images.

Caden Taylor was born on March 31, 2007, in Shanty Bay, Ontario, Taylor has steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing his skill, size, and offensive awareness. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 185 lbs, he possesses the physical attributes that make him a formidable presence on the ice.

Taylor first gained attention in AAA hockey, winning multiple tournaments, including the Whitby International Silver Stick and the Toronto Titans International Prospects Tournament. His dominance at the youth level led to his selection 9th overall by the Sudbury Wolves in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. His transition to the OHL was seamless, as he quickly adapted to the higher level of competition.

Taylor was acquired by the Peterborough Petes in the OHL, where he continued to refine his game. His ability to use his size effectively has made him a key player for his team. His NHL Draft eligibility in 2025 has scouts closely monitoring his development, with rankings placing him as a mid to late round pick.

Strengths

Elite Shot: Taylor possesses an NHL-caliber shot, capable of beating goaltenders from various angles.

Size and Physicality: His 6’3″ frame allows him to dominate in board battles and protect the puck effectively.

Offensive Instincts: He has a natural ability to find scoring opportunities, But needs to improve his ability to find and get to open ice.

Speed and Agility: Despite his size, Taylor moves well on the ice, making him a threat in transition.

Areas for Improvement

Consistency: While he has shown flashes of brilliance, maintaining a high level of play throughout a season is crucial.

-Defensive Awareness: Improving his two-way game will make him a more complete player, and does need some work.

Decision-Making Under Pressure: Probably the area that needs the most work.

Future Outlook

Taylor’s combination of size, skill, and offensive ability makes him an intriguing player to watch. But this is a project player and there is work to be done. I wouldn’t be opposed to taking a chance on Taylor but it’s going to take patience and time.

Knights defeat Wildcats to punch ticket to 2025 Memorial Cup final vs. Tigers

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Rimouski, QC – MAY 30: Semi-Final Game of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Moncton Wildcats and the London Knights on May 30, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)

RIMOUSKI, QC — One year after falling short in the 2024 championship, the London Knights have earned a shot at redemption.

With a 5-2 win over the Moncton Wildcats in Friday’s semi-final, the Knights advanced to Sunday’s title game and became just the sixth team in the past 40 years to reach back-to-back Memorial Cup finals — a feat last achieved by the Windsor Spitfires in 2009 and 2010.

London got goals from Landon Sim, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Denver Barkey, Ottawa Senators prospect Blake Montgomery, New York Islanders prospect Jesse Nurmi, and Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan. Knights’ goaltender Austin Elliott made 21 saves in the win.

Moncton responded with goals from 2025 NHL Draft prospect Caleb Desnoyers and Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Dyllan Gill, while Mathis Rousseau stopped 32 shots in the loss.

“All around, I thought that was our best game of the tournament so far,” Cowan said. “We had a really good first, kind of laid back in the second, but our third was probably our best period of the tournament so far.

“We had everyone scoring today, got lots of depth, and it was a huge win for us.”

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
POST-GAME LONDON
POST-GAME MONCTON
POST-GAME MONCTON – GARDINER MACDOUGALL
POST-GAME MONCTON – CALEB DESNOYERS

Tied 2-2 after two periods, the London Knights pulled away in the third, scoring three unanswered goals to punch their ticket to the final.

Blake Montgomery netted the game-winner at 3:35 — his first of the tournament — after slipping behind Dyllan Gill and burying a cross-ice feed from San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson, who had jump-started the play off a missed shot by Caleb Desnoyers.

Jesse Nurmi added insurance at 13:11, capitalizing on a heads-up play by Winnipeg Jets prospect Jacob Julien, who drove forward on a faceoff and fed Nurmi for his first of the tournament. Easton Cowan sealed the win with an empty-net goal at 18:11.

The Knights will now face Medicine Hat in Sunday’s final at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

“I think our experience took over [tonight],” Cowan said. “We’ve got a lot of older guys on team, a lot of guys that have been there to help close it out.”

“We know we had a tough opponent on the other side, national championship semifinal,” shared Gill post-game. “It’s heartbreaking, and I think every guy in our room is going to have a little bit of regret and what if in their head, but ultimately super proud of the group.”

Through 40 minutes, both teams had traded goals in each period.

London opened the scoring just 4:07 in, as Oliver Bonk’s shot missed the net, the puck bounced right to Landon Sim, who circled from behind the net and tucked in his first of the tournament on a wraparound.

Moncton drew level with 1:40 left in the frame when Caleb Desnoyers ripped a power-play snipe from the left faceoff dot for his first of the tournament.

The Knights regained the lead at 5:24 of the second, as Easton Cowan pulled goaltender Mathis Rousseau wide before threading a perfect pass across the crease for captain Denver Barkey to blast home a one-timer — his first of the tournament.

Moncton responded again just over two minutes later, tying it at 2-2 on a power-play marker from Dyllan Gill, who wired home his third of the Memorial Cup with a sharp wrist shot. From there, however, the Wildcats couldn’t break through in the third against a determined Knights squad.

“It means everything,” Sim said. “We were playing for this all year to get back in that game.”

The Knights will now face the Medicine Hat Tigers on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET, with the winner set to join the Cornwall Royals, Kamloops Blazers, and Windsor Spitfires as the only CHL clubs to capture a record three Memorial Cup titles since 1972.

Sunday’s championship game will mark the London Knights’ fifth appearance in a Memorial Cup final since 1972, breaking a tie for third-most all-time and placing them behind only the Kitchener Rangers and Peterborough Petes, who each have six. It’s also the second straight year the Knights have reached the Memorial Cup final, after falling in heartbreaking fashion to the Saginaw Spirit in 2024 on a goal surrendered in the final minute of regulation.

Conversely, Sunday will mark the Tigers’ first appearance in a Memorial Cup final in 18 years, after they became the first WHL team to advance directly to the championship game since the Kelowna Rockets did so in 2009 — the last time the tournament was held in Rimouski. Medicine Hat will be aiming to end an 11-year drought for the WHL by becoming the league’s first team to hoist the Memorial Cup since 2014.

Every game of the 2025 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 2025 Memorial Cup will air in the United States on NHL Network and be available to stream live for free on Victory+ for viewers outside of Canada.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Sunday, June 1 – London Knights vs. Medicine Hat Tigers

OHL ANNOUNCES 2024-25 ALL-STAR AND ALL-ROOKIE TEAMS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the first, second and third all-star team selections, in addition to the first and second all-rookie team designations for the 2024-25 season.

OHL all-star and all-rookie teams were selected by the OHL’s General Managers, with voting conducted in two stages beginning with a Conference ballot followed by a final ballot that integrated the top selections from both the Eastern and Western Conferences. Skaters were required to play at least 25 regular season games to be eligible for the voting.

A total of 13 of the league’s 20 member teams are represented on this year’s all-star and all-rookie team selections, with the OHL champion London Knights fielding a league-leading seven for the second straight year. The Eastern Conference champion Oshawa Generals trail with five players included while the Saginaw Spirit and Windsor Spitfires each feature four.

2024-25 OHL All-Star Teams:

Representatives with major positional awards in brackets are default first team members, all other designations are determined by votes cast by OHL General Managers

First All-Star Team:
Centre – Michael Misa (Saginaw) (Most Outstanding Player) – voted first all-rookie team in 2022-23
Left Wing – Liam Greentree (Windsor) – voted third all-star team in 2023-24, first all-rookie team in 2022-23
Right Wing – Nick Lardis (Brantford)
Defence – Sam Dickinson (London) (Defenceman of the Year) – voted second all-star team in 2023-24, first all-rookie team in 2022-23
Defence – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw) – voted first all-star team in 2023-24, first all-rookie team in 2022-23
Goaltender – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener) (Goaltender of the Year)
Coach – Jussi Ahokas (Kitchener) (Coach of the Year)

Second All-Star Team:
Centre – Ilya Protas (Windsor)
Left Wing – Denver Barkey (London) – voted second all-star team in 2023-24
Right Wing – Easton Cowan (London) – voted first all-star team in 2023-24, second all-rookie team in 2022-23
Defence – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie)
Defence – Oliver Bonk (London) – voted first all-star team in 2023-24, second all-rookie team in 2022-23
Goaltender – Carter George (Owen Sound) – voted third all-star team and first all-rookie team in 2023-24
Coach – Dale Hunter (London) – ninth time being voted to an OHL all-star team

Third All-Star Team:
Centre – Calum Ritchie (Oshawa) – voted second all-star team in 2023-24, first all-rookie team in 2021-22
Left Wing – Jacob Battaglia (Kingston)
Right Wing – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa) – voted second all-rookie team in 2022-23
Defence – Luca Marrelli (Oshawa)
Defence – Ben Danford (Oshawa)
Goaltender – Austin Elliott (London)
Coach – Jay McKee (Brantford) – voted third all-star team in 2021-22

2024-25 OHL All-Rookie Teams:

First All-Rookie Team:
Centre – Lev Katzin (Guelph)
Left Wing – Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound) (Rookie of the Year)
Right Wing – Dimian Zhilkin (Saginaw)
Defence – Chase Reid (Sault Ste. Marie)
Defence – Kohyn Eshkawkogan (Ottawa)
Goaltender – Aleksei Medvedev (London)

Second All-Rookie Team:
Centre – Beckham Edwards (Sarnia)
Left Wing – Ethan Belchetz (Windsor)
Right Wing – Jacob Cloutier (Saginaw)
Defence – Carter Hicks (Windsor)
Defence – Simon Wang (Oshawa)
Goaltender – Colin Ellsworth (Guelph)

Historical results of note:

  • The London Knights match the franchise record of seven players voted to all-star/all-rookie teams established in 2023-24, leading all OHL clubs
  • The Kitchener Rangers have multiple first all-star team members (Parsons, Ahokas) for the first time since 2007-08 (Justin Azevedo, Matt Halischuk)
  • The Saginaw Spirit have multiple first all-star team members (Misa, Parekh) for the first time since 2011-12 (Brandon Saad, Greg Gilbert)
  • Saginaw Spirit defenceman Zayne Parekh is the first blueliner to be voted to back-to-back first all-star teams since 2019 (London’s Evan Bouchard)
  • Windsor Spitfires centreman Ilya Protas is the first Belarusian player voted to an OHL all-star team since 2006-07 (London’s Sergei Kostitsyn)
  • Ottawa 67’s defenceman Kohyn Eshkawkogan is the first 67’s blueliner to be voted to a first all-rookie team since 1998-99 (Luke Sellars)
  • Sarnia Sting centreman Beckham Edwards is the first Sting player voted to an all-rookie team since 2018-19 (Jacob Perreault)
  • London Knights goaltender Aleksei Medvedev gives the Knights a netminder voted to the first all-rookie team in three of the past five seasons (Zach Bowen, 2022-23, Brett Brochu, 2019-20)
  • Guelph Storm netminder Colin Ellsworth is the first Storm goaltender voted to an all-rookie team since 2013-14 (Matthew Mancina)

Lirim Amidovski – North Bay Battalion – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”175Dec 22, 2006LWR181st 2022123 NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2022-2023OHLNorth Bay Battalion2101
2023-2024OHLNorth Bay Battalion573710
2024-2025OHLNorth Bay Battalion67191332
Lirim Amidovski of the North Bay Battalion. Photo by OHL Images.

Lirim Amidovski has steadily carved interest for him in the hockey world, showcasing his athleticism as a winger for the North Bay Battalion in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Born in Alliston, Ontario, Amidovski has developed into a promising prospect with a unique blend of speed, physicality, and scoring ability. As he approaches the 2025 NHL Draft, scouts and analysts have taken an interest in his potential and areas for improvement.

Amidovski was drafted by North Bay in the ninth round of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. Since then, he has worked his way up the ranks, improving his offensive production and refining his game. In the 2024-25 season, he posted career highs with 19 goals and 13 assists for 32 points in 67 games. His development has been marked by flashes of promise, particularly in his ability to drive play and create scoring opportunities.

Before joining the OHL, Amidovski played for the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U18 team, where he tallied 28 goals and 12 assists in 25 games and earned MVP honors in the GTHL U18 All-Star Game. His early success demonstrated his ability to find the back of the net and compete at a high level.

Scouting Report

Strengths

North-South Speed: Amidovski is a strong skating winger who excels in straight-line speed. He consistently surprises defenders with his ability to drive wide and create separation.

Scoring Upside: His heavy shot and willingness to attack the high-danger areas between the hash marks make him a legitimate scoring threat.

Physical Presence: Amidovski is not afraid to engage physically, using his size and strength to battle along the boards and in front of the net.

Penalty Killing Ability: His speed, length, and relentless motor make him an effective penalty killer, capable of disrupting opposing plays and creating shorthanded opportunities.

Weaknesses

Inconsistent Production: Despite his athletic profile, Amidovski’s offensive numbers have fluctuated, raising concerns about his ability to maintain consistent scoring output.

Skating Agility: While his straight-line speed is impressive, his overall skating mechanics remain a work in progress. He struggles with stops and starts, edge work, and balance when playing through contact.

Decision-Making Under Pressure: Amidovski can sometimes get caught in predictable patterns, making it easier for defenders to anticipate his movements.

Draft Projection

Despite his areas for improvement, Amidovski remains an intriguing prospect with NHL potential. His combination of speed, physicality, and scoring ability makes him a valuable asset, and with continued development, he could become a reliable contributor at the professional level. While he is currently projected as a mid-to-late-round pick, his upside could entice teams looking for a scoring winger with room to grow.

Wildcats advance to 2025 Memorial Cup semi-final after defeating Océanic

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Rimouski, QC – MAY 28: Round Robin game 6 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Moncton Wildcats and the Rimouski Océanic on May 28, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)

RIMOUSKI, QC — The Moncton Wildcats clinched a spot in the 2025 Memorial Cup semi-finals with a commanding 6-2 win over the host Rimouski Océanic on Wednesday night.

Utah Hockey Club prospect Gabe Smith led the way with two goals, while Julius Sumpf, St. Louis Blues prospect Juraj Pekarcik, Calgary Flames prospect Étienne Morin, and Alex Mercier also found the back of the net. Goaltender Mathis Rousseau turned aside 32 shots in the victory. Rimouski responded with goals from Maël St-Denis and Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford, with Mathis Langevin making 27 saves.

Holding a narrow 3-2 lead after two periods, the Wildcats pulled away with a dominant third. Morin delivered the key insurance marker just over four minutes in, ripping a low wrister from the top of the left circle to restore a two-goal cushion before Smith and Mercier sealed the win with a pair of empty-netters.

“(MacDougall) gave us a special talk in the room,” said Smith about the first-period intermission, which the Wildcats entered trailing the Océanic 2-1. “We got a little jump in our step after that and started playing our game.

“Coach is a very special motivator, and I think he did a great job of it there. We started playing our hockey after that.”

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
POST-GAME RIMOUSKI
POST-GAME MONCTON – GARDINER MACDOUGALL
POST-GAME MONCTON

The win sets up a semi-final clash against the OHL champion London Knights on Friday at 7 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. AT. The two teams previously met in the round-robin, where London narrowly defeated Moncton 3-2 in overtime.

Moncton opened the scoring at 7:39 of the first period when Julius Sumpf ended the team’s forward scoring drought. The German forward slipped behind the Rimouski defence and buried a crisp feed from Juraj Pekarcik, becoming the first Wildcats forward to score in the tournament.

Rimouski responded with a pair of goals in under four minutes to carry a 2-1 lead into the intermission. Maël St-Denis notched his second of the tournament by finishing a rebound on the backhand at 13:27, and Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford struck at 17:11 with a well-timed redirection of Olivier Théberge’s cross-ice pass.

The second period swung in Moncton’s favour. NHL prospects Juraj Pekarcik and Gabe Smith each scored to put the Wildcats back on top. Pekarcik tipped in a point shot from Predators prospect Dylan MacKinnon just 1:27 into the frame, while Smith pounced on a bouncing puck off the end boards at 4:05 following a deflected shot by Preston Lounsbury.

“I had trouble to find words in the room, I just told them, ‘Thank you,”‘ shared Océanic head coach Joël Perrault about what he told his group post-game. “It’s a group that tied together quickly, and I’ll remember them for a long time, I’m disappointed for them tonight, our fans.

“Our fans saw their effort, their resilience, the injuries they fought through.”

When they face the Knights in Friday’s semi-final at 7 p.m. ET, the Wildcats will look to secure just their second trip to the Memorial Cup final and their first since 2006. As the only team in this year’s tournament yet to capture the trophy, Moncton is in pursuit of its first-ever CHL championship title.

Conversely, the London Knights are looking to become just the fifth team in the last 35 years to reach back-to-back Memorial Cup finals, joining an exclusive group last achieved by the Windsor Spitfires in 2009 and 2010. A victory on Friday would also mark London’s 18th all-time Memorial Cup tournament win, giving them sole possession of second place on the all-time wins list. Additionally, it would secure their fifth appearance in a Memorial Cup final since 1972 — moving them into second place all-time behind only the Kitchener Rangers and Peterborough Petes, who each have six.

The Medicine Hat Tigers will face the winner of Friday’s semi-final between the London Knights and Moncton Wildcats in Sunday’s championship game. The Tigers are making their first trip to the Memorial Cup final in 18 years after becoming the first WHL team to advance directly to the title game since the Kelowna Rockets accomplished the feat in 2009 — the last time the tournament was held in Rimouski. On Sunday, Medicine Hat will be looking to become the first WHL team to lift the Memorial Cup in 11 years.

Every game of the 2025 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 2025 Memorial Cup will air in the United States on NHL Network and be available to stream live for free on Victory+ for viewers outside of Canada.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Semi-Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Friday, May 30 – Moncton Wildcats vs. London Knights
Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Saturday, June 1 – TBD vs. Medicine Hat Tigers