Evan Passmore of the Barrie Colts. Photo by OHL Images.
Evan Passmore, is an old school type of defenseman from Elmira, Ontario, and has scouts asking: at what point to you draft a physical, hard to play against, shut down defenseman? Born on December 5, 2006, Passmore currently plays for the Barrie Colts in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Standing tall at 6’4″ and weighing 210 pounds, he is a physically imposing player who has shown significant potential as a shut down, physical defenseman as he develops his game.
Career Overview
Passmore’s journey in hockey began in his hometown, where he honed his skills in local leagues before being drafted by the Barrie Colts in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. Selected in the 8th round, 153rd overall, Passmore has worked tirelessly to prove himself as a valuable asset to his team.
In his rookie season with the Colts, Passmore played 53 games, recording four assists. While his offensive contributions were modest, his defensive capabilities and physical presence on the ice did not go unnoticed. In his second season, he showed improvement, tallying three goals and eight assists in 62 games
Passmore’s performances have earned him recognition as a prospect for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Ranked 55th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, he is considered a player with the potential of a stay-at-home defenseman at the professional level.
Scouting Report
Passmore’s game is built on a foundation of physicality, defensive reliability, and smart decision-making. Here is a detailed scouting report on his strengths and areas for improvement:
Strengths
Physical Presence: Passmore’s size and strength make him a formidable opponent in one-on-one battles. He is unmovable in front of the net, effectively clearing the crease and protecting his goaltender.
Defensive Awareness: He demonstrates excellent positioning and anticipation and excellent gap control forcing the opposition to the outside. His ability to read the game allows him to disrupt opponents early.
Puck Retrieval and Breakouts: Passmore is adept at scanning the ice during puck retrievals and executing clean breakouts though some improvement would be beneficial. He is composed under pressure and usually makes the smart play.
Consistency: While not flashy, Passmore is a steady and reliable presence on the blue line. He rarely makes mistakes and contributes to his team’s overall defensive stability and can be counted on in PK situations or protecting the lead late in a game.
Areas for Improvement
Offensive Contributions: At this point, we know what Passmore is. Adding in some offense, whether it be in production himself or simply improving on joining the rush could use some improvement.
Skating: Although his size is an asset, it can also be a limitation in terms of agility and speed. Improving his footwork and acceleration would enhance his ability to keep up with faster opponents.
Future Outlook
Evan Passmore’s combination of size, defensive acumen, and work ethic makes him an intriguing prospect for the NHL. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he has the potential to become a reliable shutdown defenseman at the pro level.
Toronto, ON – With the 2025 OHL Cup Championship Final underway, the Ontario Hockey League has announced the seven recipients of 2025 U16 AAA Player of the Year Awards for players representing the four Ontario Hockey Federation Member Partners including the ALLIANCE, Greater Toronto Hockey League, Northern Ontario Hockey Association, and both the Ontario Minor Hockey Association’s East and West regions, along with Hockey Eastern Ontario and Hockey Northwestern Ontario.
“A big congratulations goes out to the recipients of this year’s awards. Thank you to the families, coaches, and teammates for their tremendous support of these remarkable players over the course of the season and throughout their minor hockey careers,” said Brodie Barrick, the OHL’s Director of Recruitment and Player Services.
“The OHL is proud to recognize all the hard work, dedication, and extraordinary accomplishments from across Ontario. We thank all players for another great season and wish them the very best of luck in their hockey and academic careers.”
The awards are presented annually to honour the U16 AAA players who best exemplify outstanding ability and the qualities of sportsmanship and leadership as selected by OHL Central Scouting and a panel of Ontario Hockey League general managers.
ALLIANCE U16 AAA Player of the Year – Jaakko Wycisk (Sun County Panthers) Jaakko Wycisk led the ALLIANCE U16 circuit in both goals (32) and points (61), leading his team to a league championship with an additional 13 points (6-7–13) in the playoffs. He’s the first Sun County player to earn the award since eventual Red Tilson Trophy winner Matthew Maggio last did so in 2018.
Past Winners: 2024 – Parker Vaughan, Elgin-Middlesex Canucks 2023 – Ryan Roobroeck, London Jr. Knights 2022 – Lucas Karmiris, Brantford 99ers 2020 – Bryce McConnell-Barker, London Jr. Knights 2019 – Deni Goure, Chatham-Kent Cyclones 2018 – Matthew Maggio, Sun County Panthers 2017 – Ryan Suzuki, London Jr. Knights 2016 – Owen Lalonde, Windsor Jr. Spitfires 2015 – Nick Suzuki, London Jr. Knights 2014 – Anthony Salinitri, Windsor Jr. Spitfires 2013 – Travis Konecny, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs 2012 – Jared McCann, London Jr. Knights Gold 2011 – Bo Horvat, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs
GTHL U16 AAA Player of the Year – Camryn Warren (Toronto Jr. Canadiens) Toronto Jr. Canadiens forward Camryn Warren was a force throughout the regular season and into the OHL Cup, where he potted a pair of OT winners in round robin play to help his team reach the OHL Cup Championship Final. Warren earns GTHL U16 AAA Player of the Year honours in his second season playing at the U16 level.
Past Winners: 2024 – Adam Valentini, Toronto Marlboros 2023 – William Moore, Toronto Marlboros 2022 – Malcolm Spence, Mississauga Senators 2020 – Pano Fimis, Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2019 – Shane Wright, Don Mills Flyers 2018 – Jamie Drysdale, Toronto Marlboros 2017 – Nick Porco, Vaughan Kings 2016 – Ryan Merkley, Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2015 – Ryan McLeod, Toronto Marlboros 2014 – Adam Mascherin, Vaughan Kings 2013 – Dylan Strome, Toronto Marlboros 2012 – Connor McDavid, Toronto Marlboros 2011 – Nick Ritchie, Toronto Marlboros
HEO U16 AAA Player of the Year – Kaden McGregor (Ottawa Valley Titans) Kaden McGregor led the HEO U16 AAA loop in scoring with 38 goals and 82 points over just 29 games, captaining the Ottawa Valley Titans to a league championship. The HEO U16 AAA Player of the Year continued his strong play at the OHL Cup, recording 11 points (3-8–11) in five games. McGregor is the first Titans player to ever receive the honour.
Past Winners: 2024 – Max Crete, Upper Canada Cyclones 2023 – Quinn Beauchesne, Nepean Raiders 2022 – Cole Beaudoin, Nepean Raiders 2020 – Cedrick Guindon, Rockland Nationals 2019 – Mason McTavish, Pembroke Lumber Kings 2018 – Josh Barnes, Cornwall Colts 2017 – Alexandre Hogue, Cumberland Grads 2016 – Paul Larabie, Nepean Raiders 2015 – Gabriel Vilardi, CIH Academy 2014 – William Bitten, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2013 – Andrew Peski, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2012 – Andrew Abou-Assaly, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2011 – Nicholas Baptiste, Ottawa Senators
HNO U16 AAA Player of the Year – Eleazar Andrusco (Thunder Bay Kings) Thunder Bay Kings goaltender Eleazer Andrusco earns this year’s HNO U16 AAA Player of the Year honour. The 6-foot-4 product of Fort Frances, Ont. is the second straight Kings netminder to win the award.
Past Winners: 2024 – Brady Cates, Thunder Bay Kings 2023 – Carter Poddubny, Thunder Bay Kings 2020 – Brodie McLeod, Thunder Bay Kings 2019 – Jack Michaelis, Thunder Bay Kings 2018 – Michael Stubbs, Thunder Bay Kings 2017 – Christian Cicigoi, Thunder Bay Kings 2016 – Quintin Loon-Stewardson, Thunder Bay Kings 2015 – Kyle Auger, Thunder Bay Kings 2014 – Brad Belisle, Thunder Bay Kings 2013 – Zach Grzelewski, Thunder Bay Kings 2012 – Bryce Martyn, Thunder Bay Kings 2011 – Nolan Nicholas, Thunder Bay Kings
NOHA U16 AAA Player of the Year – Adam Pseniczny (Soo Jr. Greyhounds U16) Soo Jr. Greyhounds forward Adam Pseniczny is the NOHA U16 AAA Player of the Year. He led Great North Midget League rookies in scoring with 64 points (29-35–64) over 30 games and also represented Team NOHA at the 2025 OHL Cup.
Past Winners: 2024 – Mason Walker, Sudbury Jr. Wolves 2023 – Hudson Chitaroni, Soo Jr. Greyhounds 2022 – Nolan Newton, Sudbury Nickel Capitals 2020 – Connor Toms, Soo Jr. Greyhounds 2019 – Chase Stillman, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves 2018 – Pacey Schlueting, North Bay Trappers 2017 – Camaryn Baber, Soo Midget Greyhounds 2016 – Damien Giroux, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves 2015 – Cayse Ton, New Liskeard Cubs 2014 – Zach Dorval, Soo Thunder 2013 – Blake Speers, Soo Thunder 2012 – Michael Amadio, Sault Ste. Marie North Stars 2011 – Ryan Kujawinski, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves
OMHA East U16 AAA Player of the Year – Brock Chitaroni (Barrie Jr. Colts) Barrie Jr. Colts forward Brock Chitaroni is the OMHA East U16 AAA Player of the Year with 29 goals and 59 points over 31 regular season games. Chitaroni played his second season with the Colts U16 AAA program, making his second straight appearance in the OHL Cup.
Past Winners: 2024 – Maddox Dagenais, Quinte Red Devils 2023 – Owen Griffin, York-Simcoe Express 2022 – Ethan Procyszyn, North Central Predators 2020 – Donovan McCoy, Quinte Red Devils 2019 – Brenden Sirizzotti, Whitby Wildcats 2018 – Quinton Byfield, York Simcoe Express 2017 – Alex Newhook, York Simcoe Express 2016 – Aidan Dudas, North Central Predators 2015 – Brady Gilmour, Quinte Red Devils 2014 – Chris Paquette, Greater Kingston Jr Frontenacs
OMHA West U16 AAA Player of the Year – Aleksandr Sementsov (Halton Hurricanes) Aleksandr Sementsov led the OMHA with 76 points (21-55–76) over 34 games and led his Halton Hurricanes to an OMHA title, also being named OMHA West U16 AAA Player of the Year.
Past Winners: 2024 – Ethan Belchetz, Oakville Rangers 2023 – Matthew Schaefer, Halton Hurricanes 2022 – Luca Testa, Niagara North Stars 2020 – Sam Alfano, Southern Tier Admirals 2019 – Lawson Sherk, Halton Hurricanes 2018 – Cameron Tolnai, Oakville Rangers 2017 – Matthew Dunsmoor, Guelph Jr. Gryphons 2016 – Adam McMaster, Niagara North Stars 2015 – Liam Stevens, Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs 2014 – Rylee St Onge, Niagara North Stars
*prior to 2014 there was a single OMHA Player of the Year award recipient
Past OMHA Players of the Year: 2013 – Matt Spencer, Oakville Rangers* 2012 – Nik Coric, York Simcoe Express* 2011 – Alex Yuill, Quinte Red Devils*
Forward of the Month – Malcolm Spence – Erie Otters
Spence had a very good month of March to close out the regular season, scoring 9 goals and adding 9 assists in 11 games. He had 3-multi goal games, 4-multi assist games and 5-multi point games. All 9 of his goals came on 5-on-5 hockey. He also had a whopping 43 shots on goal in those 9 games.
Also considered was Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit. He posted 6 goals and 10 assists in 9 games while Filip Ekberg of the Ottawa 67’s, who was named Rookie of the Month by the OHL, had 4 goals and 11 assists in 10 games.
Defenceman of the Month – Kashawn Aitcheson – Barrie Colts
Aitcheson has had a very good regular season and March was no different as he posted 5 goals and 8 assists in 9 games during the month of March. He was held off the scoresheet just once on March 9 against the Sudbury Wolves. He did not produce a multi-goal game but had 3-multi assist games. He was also runner up as the OHL Defenseman of the Month.
Also considered were Parker Von Richter of the Brampton Steelheads who had 1 goal and 9 assists in 10 games as well as James Petrovski of the Owen Sound Attack who had 1 goal and 8 assists in 9 games.
Goaltender of the Month – Mike McIvor – North Bay Battalion
McIvor posted a 5-2-0-1 record in March where he stopped 235 of 257 shots for a save percentage of .914 and a goals-against-average of 2.92. McIvor is a draft re-entry and is ranked sixth among OHL goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting. While others have put up better numbers, there is no arguing the effort.
Also considered was Jack Ivankovic of the Brampton Steelheads with also put up a 5-2-0-1 record with a 2.36 goals-against-average and .910 save percentage.
Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit. Photo by OHL Images.
For the past 15 seasons, I have been keeping you up to date on the statistical leaders from the OHL that are eligible for the NHL Entry Draft. This season, the OHL has decided to do the same, however, they just look at first time draft eligible players whereas I include the draft re-entries.
One could ask themselves the question: What category does Michael Misa not lead in? Well, there aren’t many. Have a look as I look at the leaders in a variety of different categories.
Toronto, ON – Here’s a look at Thursday’s action as the Don Mills Flyers and Toronto Jr. Canadiens emerged to schedule a meeting in Friday’s OHL Cup Championship Final:
2025 OHL Cup Quarter-Final Results:
Quarter-Final #1: Toronto Titans 2 vs. Sun County Panthers 1 – OT Toronto MVP – Ty Robar (1A) Panthers MVP – Eric Wood (1A) Recap – Stats
Quarter-Final #2: Don Mills Flyers 5 vs. Huron-Perth Lakers 2 Flyers MVP – Caden Bell (2A) Lakers MVP – Jake Murray Recap – Stats
Quarter-Final #3: Toronto Jr. Canadiens 3 vs. Ottawa Valley Titans 2 – OT JRC MVP – Camryn Warren (1G, 1A) Ottawa MVP – Brian Rathwell (34SV) Recap – Stats
Quarter-Final #4: Detroit Little Caesars 4 vs. TPH Hockey 3 Detroit MVP – Sarvir Jaworksi (2G) TPH MVP – Miles Jinman (2A) Recap – Stats
2025 OHL Cup Semi-Final Results:
Semi-Final #1: Don Mills Flyers 5 vs. Toronto Titans 1 Flyers MVP – Noah La Gambina (34SV) Titans MVP – Max Delisle (1G) Recap – Stats
Semi-Final #2: Toronto Jr. Canadiens 8 vs. Detroit Little Caesars 4 JRC MVP – Jax Pereira (2G) Detroit MVP – Brock Burch (2G) Recap – Stats
Toronto Jr. Canadiens forward Noah Laus leads all tournament scorers heading into tomorrow’s final, recording 12 points (6-6-12) in six games. JRC teammate Camryn Warren follows with 11 (5-6-11), while Ottawa Valley Titans forward Kaden McGregor finished his tournament with 11 points (3-8-11) in five games. Toronto Titans forward Jeremy Freeman also made an impact, posting 10 points (4-6-10) in six contests. OHL Cup Scoring Leaders
Don Mills Flyers goaltender Noah La Gambina continues to dominate the tournament, securing the only 5-0 goaltending record. OHL Cup Goaltending Leaders
All tournament games feature live scoring complete with the OHL’s Game Centre module.
The 2025 OHL Cup Finals will conclude with Friday night’s Championship Final between the Don Mills Flyers and the Toronto Jr. Canadiens at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. General admission tickets are available for $14.50, including taxes and fees, and can be purchased on Ticketmaster here.
The showcase provides fans and scouts one last opportunity to see many of the top U16 AAA players from across Ontario and parts of the United States compete for the OHL Cup performing against the best competition prior to the 2025 OHL Priority Selection on April 11 and 12.
Toronto, ON – On the heels of the launch of OHL Assists, the league’s charitable foundation on Tuesday, the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is rolling out an exciting charitable initiative for the 2025 playoffs, rewarding clutch goals through charitable giving.
OHL Overtime Heroes will support meaningful local community organizations and initiatives during the 2025 OHL Playoffs, and here’s how it works:
For every overtime goal scored during the playoffs, a donation will be made on behalf of the goal-scorer, with the funds directed to a charity or not-for-profit of the player’s choice. The donation amounts will incrementally grow each round as the playoffs progress, ensuring greater impact as the postseason intensifies.
If a player’s overtime goal is the series-clinching goal scored in Game 7 of any series, a bonus donation of $2500 will be awarded to amplify the program’s impact.
The OHL Overtime Heroes program highlights the league’s commitment to community involvement, with players not only showcasing their skills on the ice but also giving back to causes that matter most to them.
Any overtime goal scored to decide a series in Game 7 will receive a $2500 bonus!
Follow along throughout the playoffs as the league will announce the charitable organizations benefitting from OHL Overtime Heroes donations across its social media channels on X, Facebook and Instagram!
Toronto, Ont. – Round robin play at the 2025 OHL Cup hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League concluded on Wednesday with a total of 14 games on the schedule.
2025 OHL Cup Day 3 Results:
Game 27 – Detroit Little Caesars 2 vs. Halton Hurricanes 1 Detroit MVP – Brock Burch (1G, 1A) Halton MVP – Cole Vreugdenhil (30SV) Recap – Stats
Game 28 – Ajax-Pickering Raiders 5 vs. Toronto Marlboros 3 Raiders MVP – Evan Giannone (3G) Marlboros MVP – Lucas Balanyk (1A) Recap – Stats
Game 29 – Don Mills Flyers 4 vs. Waterloo Wolves 1 Flyers MVP – Lincoln Cumming (1G) Waterloo MVP – Emre Alves (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 30 – Vaughan Kings 7 vs. Upper Canada Cyclones 4 Vaughan MVP – A.J. Gladman Cyclones MVP – Quinn Young (3G) Recap – Stats
Game 31 – Toronto Red Wings 5 vs. Team NOHA 2 Red Wings MVP – Tyler Hinde (2G) NOHA MVP – Theo Bourdon-Lemoyne (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 32 – Toronto Titans 4 vs. Ottawa Valley Titans 1 Toronto MVP – Max Delisle (1G) Ottawa MVP – James Roy Recap – Stats
Game 33 – Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2 vs. Sun County Panthers 1 – OT Toronto MVP – Camryn Warren (1G) Panthers MVP – Jaakko Wycisk Recap – Stats
Game 34 – TPH Hockey 3 vs. Niagara North Stars 2 TPH MVP – Cooper John (1G) Niagara MVP – Reif Steenhuis (32SV) Recap – Stats
Game 35 – Toronto Marlboros 4 vs. Elgin-Middlesex Canucks 1 Toronto MVP – Robbie Dragusica (1A) Canucks MVP – Hudson Leenders Recap – Stats
Game 36 – Huron-Perth Lakers 1 vs. Detroit Little Caesars 0 Lakers MVP – Vaughn Barr (35SV) Detroit MVP – Greyson Mielock (7SV) Recap – Stats
Game 38 – Waterloo Wolves 4 vs. Barrie Jr. Colts 2 Waterloo MVP – Zack Forwell (1G, 2A) Barrie MVP – Lachlan Larmand (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 39 – Ottawa Valley Titans vs. Ajax-Pickering Raiders Ottawa MVP – Kaden McGregor (2G, 2A) Raiders MVP – Justin Sekulovski (2G) Recap – Stats
Game 40 – Team NOHA 2 vs. Halton Hurricanes 1 NOHA MVP – Bruce Laronde (19SV) Halton MVP – Aleksandr Sementsov (1G) Recap – Stats
The undefeated Toronto Titans and TPH Hockey enter Thursday’s Quarter-Final action with perfect 4-0 records, each clinching the top spot in their divisions following Round-Robin play. Detroit Little Caesars (3-1) and the Toronto Jr. Canadiens (3-1) also secured first place in their respective divisions, as eight teams advance to the Quarter-Finals. OHL Cup Standings
Ottawa Valley Titans forward Kaden McGregor sits atop all tournament point-getters following Wednesday’s action, registering 10 points (3-7-10) in four games played. Toronto Titans teammates in Jeremy Freeman (4-5-9) and Michael Tang (3-6-9) trail close behind, each tallying nine points in four contests. Vaughan Kings forward Eloan Le Gallic leads the showcase in goals with five. OHL Cup Scoring Leaders
Thursday’s Quarter-Final Schedule: Quarter-Final #1 – Toronto Titans (4-0-0) vs. Sun County Panthers (2-1-1) (10:00am – Rink 1) Quarter-Final #2 – Huron-Perth Lakers (3-0-1) vs. Don Mills Flyers (3-1-0) (10:30am – Rink 2) Quarter-Final #3 – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (3-1-0) vs. Ottawa Valley Titans (3-1-0) (11:45am – Rink 1) Quarter-Final #4 – TPH Hockey (4-0-0) vs. Detroit Little Caesars (3-1-0) (12:15pm – Rink 2)
All tournament games feature live scoring complete with the OHL’s Game Centre module.
The 2025 OHL Cup Quarter-Finals are set for Thursday morning leading into the Semi-Finals in the evening, culminating in Friday night’s Championship Final at the Mattamy Athletic Centre.
General admission tickets to the Championship Final are available for $14.50 per ticket, including taxes and ticket fees, and can be purchased on Ticketmaster here.
The showcase provides fans and scouts one last opportunity to see many of the top U16 AAA players from across Ontario and parts of the United States compete for the OHL Cup performing against the best competition prior to the 2025 OHL Priority Selection on April 11 and 12.
For full coverage of the 2025 OHL Cup, visit ohlcup.ca.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Month for regular season games in March 2025.
Player of the Month – Ilya Protas (Windsor Spitfires) Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas of the Windsor Spitfires has been named OHL Player of the Month for March. Protas recorded eight goals, 15 assists, and 23 points in just seven games, registering points in all seven outings, including six multi-point performances. He capped off the month with standout performances, notching four points (3-1-4) on March 15 against the Saginaw Spirit. He then matched his career high with a five-point game on March 20, assisting on all five goals in a 5-0 win over the Sarnia Sting. Protas also earned Player of the Week honours once in March.
An 18-year-old from Vitebsk, Belarus, Protas appeared in 61 games with the Spitfires this season, recording 50 goals, 74 assists, and 124 points, good for second-most in the OHL. Protas records the eighth 50-goal season in Spitfires history, joining such names as Matthew Maggio (2022-23), Steve Ott (2000-01) and Ernie Godden (1980-81) in that department. He was selected third overall by Windsor in the 2024 CHL Import Draft after being chosen in the third round (75th overall) by the Washington Capitals in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Also considered for March’s Player of the Month Award, Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan of the London Knights tallied 23 points (8-15-9) in nine games played, while San Jose Sharks prospect Igor Chernyshov of the Saginaw Spirit was also a standout, registering 20 points (7-13-20) in nine contests.
Defenceman of the Month – Sam Dickinson (London Knights) San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson of the London Knights has been named the OHL Defenceman of the Month for March. Earning this recognition for the second time this season, Dickinson recorded six goals, 12 assists, and 18 points, along with a plus-12 rating over 10 outings. He registered at least one point in nine of his 10 March outings, posting multi-point performances in six, including three-point games on March 11th (2-1-3) and March 21st (2-1-3).
An 18-year-old from Toronto, Ont., Dickinson led all London Knights in scoring, setting a new single season franchise mark with 91 points (29-62–91) over 55 games. His 29 goals and 91 points were the second-most by a defenceman in the OHL this season. The 6-foot-3, 210Ib. left-shot blueliner has recorded 184 points (56-128–184) over 185 career regular season contests in London after being selected fourth overall by the Niagara IceDogs in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. He put up 13 points (4-9–13) over 18 games in last year’s playoffs as the Knights were crowned OHL champions. Dickinson was selected by the San Jose Sharks with the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Also considered for March’s Defenceman of the Month Award, Calgary Flames prospect Zayne Parekh of the Saginaw Spirit registered 15 points (4-11-15) in seven games, while 2025 NHL Draft-eligible prospect Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts also performed well, tallying five goals, eight assists and 13 points in nine contests.
Goaltender of the Month – Austin Elliott (London Knights) London Knights goaltender Austin Elliott has been named the OHL Goaltender of the Month for March.
Making 196 saves throughout the month, Elliott posted a perfect 7-0 record with a 1.70 goals-against average, .942 save percentage, and one shutout. Elliott earned Player of the Week honours once in March, recording three 30+ save performances and a 28-save shutout on March 5.
The 20-year-old from Strathmore, Alberta, has been dominant since joining the Knights, who acquired the overage goaltender from the Barrie Colts after he was claimed off CHL waivers in October. He led the OHL with a 2.10 goals-against average, .924 save percentage, and an impressive 32-1-0-0 record through 33 games as an overager. Elliott entered the OHL after starting his junior career with the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades.
Also considered for the award this month, Buffalo Sabres prospect Ryerson Leenders of the Brantford Bulldogs impressed with a 6-2 record, a 2.79 goals-against average, .924 save percentage, and one shutout. Meanwhile, Mike McIvor of the North Bay Battalion posted a 5-2-0-1 record with a 2.92 goals-against average, a .914 save percentage and one shutout. Draft eligible Brampton Steelheads goaltender Jack Ivankovic was also in the running with a 2.36 goals-against average, 5-2-0-1 record and a .910 save percentage.
Rookie of the Month – Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s) Filip Ekberg of the Ottawa 67’s is the Rookie of the Month for March after posting four goals and 11 assists for 15 points over 10 games. Ekberg recorded points in all 10 of his March performances, including four multi-point contests. He set an OHL career high on March 22 with a three-assist game in a 7-1 win over the Erie Otters. Ekberg also earned Rookie of the Week honours to start the month.
A 17-year-old from Uppsala, Sweden, Ekberg recorded 45 points (16-29–45) in 53 games this season. Selected by Ottawa in the first round (33rd overall) of the 2024 CHL Import Draft, he was ranked 136th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft. Ekberg has also found success on the international stage, winning a bronze medal with Sweden at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Also considered for the award this month, Beckham Edwards of the Sarnia Sting registered four goals, six assists and 10 points in 10 games played, while Erie Otters blueliner Lucas Ambrosio also impressed, recording seven points (1-6-7) in 11 contests.
2024-25 OHL Performers of the Month:
Player of the Month: March – Ilya Protas (Windsor Spitfires) February – Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs) January – Tuomas Uronen (Kingston Frontenacs) December – Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals) November – Sam Dickinson (London Knights) October – Michael Misa (Saginaw Spirit)
Defenceman of the Month: March – Sam Dickinson (London Knights) February – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit) January – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit) December – Henry Mews (Ottawa 67’s) November – Sam Dickinson (London Knights) October – Luca Marrelli (Oshawa Generals)
Goaltender of the Month: March – Austin Elliott (London Knights) February – Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs) January – Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights) December – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts) November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) October – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)
Rookie of the Month: March – Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s) February – Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack) January – Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds) December – Lev Katzin (Guelph Storm) November – Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights) October – Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires)
Toronto, ON – The 2025 OHL Cup hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League continued on Tuesday with a total of 14 games on the Round Robin schedule.
2025 OHL Cup Day 2 Results:
Game 13 – TPH Hockey 5 vs. Barrie Jr. Colts 1 TPH MVP – Miles Jinman (2G, 2A) Barrie MVP – Brock Chitaroni (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 14 – Sun County Panthers 6 vs. York Simcoe Express 5 – OT Panthers MVP – Brayden Lappalainen (3G, 1A) Express MVP – Cole Crawford (2G) Recap – Stats
Game 15 – Huron Perth Lakers 3 vs. Halton Hurricanes 2 – OT Lakers MVP – Jake Murray (1G, 1A) Halton MVP – Aleksandr Sementsov (1A) Recap – Stats
Game 16 – Elgin-Middlesex Canucks 5 vs. Ajax-Pickering Raiders 2 Canucks MVP – Lucas Nutting (1G) Raiders MVP – Jaxon Bagshaw (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 17 – Waterloo Wolves 3 vs. Niagara North Stars 1 Waterloo MVP – Liam Cheeseman (20SV) Niagara MVP – Nick Soliman (30SV) Recap – Stats
Game 18 – Toronto Jr. Canadiens 5 vs. Upper Canada Cyclones 2 JRC MVP – Noah Laus (1G) Cyclones MVP – Carter Beauchesne (1G, 1A) Recap – Stats
Game 19 – Detroit Little Caesars 6 vs. Team NOHA 4 Detroit MVP – Gunner Gullstrand (2G) NOHA MVP – Owen Smith (1G, 1A) Recap – Stats
Game 20 – Ottawa Valley Titans 4 vs. Toronto Marlboros 0 Marlboros MVP – Kingston Harris Ottawa MVP – Logan Wilson (2G) Recap – Stats
Game 21 – TPH Hockey 4 vs. Don Mills Flyers 1 TPH MVP – Mason Courville (25SV) Flyers MVP – Lincoln Edwards (1A) Recap – Stats
Game 22 – Sun County Panthers 5 vs. Vaughan Kings 2 Panthers MVP – Jaakko Wycisk (1G, 2A) Vaughan MVP – Nate Feiner (1G) Recap – Stats
Game 23 – Huron Perth Lakers 1 vs. Toronto Red Wings 1 Lakers MVP – Ian Kubelka (9SV) Red Wings MVP – Cruz Reznik (16SV) Recap – Stats
Game 24 – Toronto Titans 5 vs. Elgin-Middlesex Canucks 1 Titans MVP – Max Delisle (1G) Canucks MVP – Owen Miniotas Recap – Stats
Game 25 – Niagara North Stars 1 vs. Barrie Jr. Colts 0 Niagara MVP – Reif Steenhuis (16SV) Barrie MVP – Sebastien Morden (9SV) Recap – Stats
Game 26 – York-Simcoe Express 3 vs. Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2 – OT Express MVP – Lucian Arniotis (54SV) JRC MVP – Keaton Ardagh (1G) Recap – Stats
TPH Hockey and the Toronto Titans enter Wednesday’s action as the only 3-0 teams in the showcase, with TPH securing first place in the Nash Division. The Sun County Panthers and Huron-Perth Lakers are also undefeated through three games, each with a 2-0-1 records while the Ottawa Valley Titans and Detroit Little Caesars also remain perfect, playing to 2-0 records. OHL Cup Standings
York-Simcoe’s Ryerson Edgar leads tournament scoring with eight points (4-4-8) through three games followed closely by teammate Ben Veitch (3-4-7), Toronto Titans’ Jeremy Freeman (3-4-7) and Sun County Panthers’ Jaakko Wycisk (1-6-7) with seven. Edgar and Don Mills Flyers defenceman Caden Bell top the goal-scoring leaderboard, each netting four goals. OHL Cup Scoring Leaders
All tournament games feature live scoring complete with the OHL’s Game Centre module.
The 2025 OHL Cup Round Robin action continues on Wednesday, and Thursday, followed by the Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals on Thursday night, culminating in Friday night’s Championship Final at the Mattamy Athletic Centre.
All games are available live and on demand through LiveBarn.
The showcase provides fans and scouts one last opportunity to see many of the top U16 AAA players from across Ontario and parts of the United States compete for the OHL Cup performing against the best competition prior to the 2025 OHL Priority Selection on April 11 and 12.
For full coverage of the 2025 OHL Cup, visit ohlcup.ca.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has been developing players for the National Hockey League, equipping student-athletes for professional pathways and life beyond the game for a long time, but it’s also doing tremendous work in communities across Ontario, Michigan and Pennsylvania.
The league’s community impact featured nearly $7 million raised by member teams and donated to a total of 812 different charities during the 2023-24 season, in addition to nearly $1 million contributed to local minor hockey programs.
To better share these stories and enhance the philanthropic efforts of the teams across the league, the OHL is excited to launch OHL Assists, the league’s charitable foundation and philanthropic arm intended to enhance community-driven initiatives that brings the league and its communities together.
OHL Assists will seek to inspire the growth of the game, along with communities league-wide through inclusion, empowerment, and collaboration, while striving to promote youth development and creating lasting opportunities for all, both on and off the ice.
“I was fortunate enough to tour across the league in the opening half of the season, and one of the things that jumped out to me was the deep connection that exists between our teams and their communities,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “The goal of OHL Assists is to further that community engagement and broaden the pathway for our communities to engage in hockey and ultimately become more active in the game. We want to build bridges and help people in all the communities across the OHL and challenge ourselves to discover fresh and creative ways to achieve that objective.”
While the OHL and its member teams play an active role in philanthropic and community-based initiatives, the league also drives an incredible yearly economic impact in its communities, reaching roughly $450 million last season.
“We are beginning to develop additional innovative opportunities to intersect the action on the ice with the lives of everyday people in our communities, including a new campaign and charitable effort that we will be rolling out for the 2025 Playoffs that I think fans are really going to enjoy,” added Crawford.
Whether it’s community food drives, blood and stem cell donation, teddy bear tosses or minor hockey mentorship, OHL Assists strives to bring the league’s communities together to grow the game and lend a helping hand.
Stay tuned for an exciting OHL Assists announcement on Wednesday!
OHL Writers 