FLOSPORTS AND ONTARIO HOCKEY LEAGUE ENTER LANDMARK SEVEN-YEAR MEDIA PARTNERSHIP

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

FloHockey to Serve As Global Home for More Than 680 OHL Games and the Most Live Hockey on the Planet

Austin, TX and Toronto, ON – (August 26, 2025) – FloSports has entered into a landmark seven-year media partnership with the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), one of North America’s most storied and competitive junior hockey leagues beginning with the 2025–26 season. The new agreement establishes FloHockey as the global home for live and on-demand streaming coverage of the OHL’s full regular season, postseason, and marquee league events and an essential destination for Canadian hockey. 

The addition of the OHL will bring more than 680 OHL games, including regular season matchups, playoff rounds, Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game, and the OHL Championship Series for the J. Ross Robertson Cup. In addition, FloHockey will produce original content and invest in a broad social media strategy to further elevate the league and its athletes.

This agreement significantly expands FloHockey’s footprint in Canadian junior hockey – a proving ground for the NHL stars of tomorrow –  which scored nine first-round picks in last year’s NHL draft including the number one pick overall by the New York Islanders, Matthew Schaefer. With existing partnerships across seven of the nine CJHL leagues and now two of the three major CHL circuits – the QMJHL and the OHL – FloHockey cements its position as the essential destination for hockey fans with the most live hockey available on the planet featuring more than 20,000 games scheduled this season. 

As part of the deal, the OHL will continue its use of LeagueStat, FloSports’ industry-leading stats and data platform. Fans will enjoy real-time integration across live streams, team websites, and mobile apps—ensuring seamless access to in-game stats and updates no matter where they watch.

The partnership includes an official sponsorship designation for FloHockey with the OHL, aligning both brands in a deeper marketing collaboration and elevating hockey content across platforms. Exclusive storytelling will highlight emerging stars, NHL prospects, and the OHL’s rich legacy of player development.

“The OHL has long been a pillar of junior hockey in North America, and this partnership is a milestone for our coverage,” said Josh Siskin, GM of FloHockey. “Adding the OHL alongside the QMJHL offers fans the most complete junior hockey streaming experience available anywhere. We’re proud to invest in growing the game and supporting the next generation of elite talent.”

“We’re excited about this new partnership and making FloHockey the streaming home of the Ontario Hockey League,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “Providing our fans with a first-rate streaming experience across several different platforms is a top priority. Working with Flo and their creative team also presents tremendous content opportunities across our social and digital channels and we’re looking forward to telling the league’s story together.”

FloHockey streams tens of thousands of games annually from the AHL, ECHL, USHL, SPHL, Swedish Hockey League, and top college and junior leagues. Last season, it reached more than 6 million total viewers and over 21 million video views on social media. 

FloHockey is available via web, mobile apps (iOS and Android), and streaming platforms including Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV. The FloSports app will be pre-installed on most top-selling Smart TVs in the U.S. and Canada this year, with launches on Samsung, Vizio and LG, making it easier than ever for fans to watch. OHL Season ticket holders will receive a FloHockey subscription discount – more information about the program will be provided in the coming days. 

About FloSports
FloSports is a global sports media company committed to spotlighting the sports and athletes traditional media leaves behind. Founded in 2006, the company has become the digital home for die-hard communities in sports — delivering live and on-demand coverage, award-winning original programming, and advanced data solutions to passionate fans worldwide.

Flo’s portfolio spans more than 25 sports and includes the leading destinations for devoted audiences, including motorsports, hockey, wrestling, cycling, Jiu-Jitsu , track & field, cheer, a range of NCAA sports, and more.

Through strategic partnerships with NASCAR, USA Wrestling, Varsity Spirit, High Limit Racing, the American Hockey League (AHL), Tour de France, Wanda Diamond League, and 18 NCAA conferences, FloSports streams over 50,000 events annually to a global subscriber base. For more information, please visit: flosports.tv.

About the Ontario Hockey League
The  Ontario Hockey League  has long been regarded as the number one development league in the world, continuing to serve as a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League. The OHL consists of 20 teams, with 17 located in Ontario, two in the state of Michigan and one in the state of Pennsylvania. A proud member of the Canadian Hockey League, the OHL is also a leading provider of hockey scholarships, with over 329 graduates receiving OHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice in 2024-25, resulting in a collective investment of over $42 million by OHL member teams over the past 15 years.

OHL CONCLUDES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

MUSKOKA LAKES (Friday, August 15, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) on Thursday concluded its Annual General Meeting of the Board of Governors at the JW Marriott Resort, with several adopted notices of motion as the league moves into the 2025-26 season.

In the area of league governance, current Chairman of the Board Tim Lukenda, who serves as President and Governor of the Soo Greyhounds, was elected to another two-year term as Chair. He is joined on the League’s Executive Council by representatives Craig Goslin (Saginaw Spirit), Joe Birch (Kitchener Rangers), Dr. Bob Neville (Peterborough Petes) and Dario Zulich (Sudbury Wolves).

This year’s Annual General Meeting saw the Board approve several changes to OHL playing rules, bringing those more in line with the standard of play in the National Hockey League. These rule changes will be outlined in more detail following the OHL’s Leadership Meeting of the General Managers being held next week.

A few notable league updates emerging from this week’s meetings include:

Hockey Operations – Enhanced Video Review Technology:

The OHL has partnered with Spiideo, an easy-to-use, accessible and cloud-based video recording and analysis solution to enhance its video review process in all 20 venues leaguewide. The benefits of this new partnership include:

  • Enhanced video review with seven consistent angles in all buildings
  • Faster incident analysis and decision-making
  • Improved official coaching and development through objective visual feedback
  • Enhanced supplemental discipline process

Phase 1 of the Spiideo integration is near completion as installation continues across the league leading into the upcoming season.

Hockey Operations – Overage Player Registration Eligibility:

Under previous parameters, OHL clubs could only sign and register an overage player if they had spent the previous season on a Hockey Canada or USA Hockey player’s registration certificate. The Board of Governors has amended this ruling to give OHL member teams the ability to also register an overage player who spent the previous 19-year-old season in either the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) or British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL).

Hockey Operations – Player Safety, Cut-Resistant Material:

The Board of Governors has approved the institution of a policy where cut-resistant materials worn on the throat, groin, wrist and ankle be at the category of A-5 or greater, with the exception of BNQ certified throat protectors.

The OHL Board of Governors also adopted new initiatives in Player Experience and Officiating Development, with more updates in those areas to be rolled out in the weeks to come.

The 2025 OHL Alumni Charity Golf Classic takes place next week at Hockley Valley Resort in Mono, ON, to be followed by the annual OHL Leadership Meetings that involve General Managers from across the league prior to training camps getting underway later this month.

GREYHOUNDS PRESIDENT AND GOVERNOR TIM LUKENDA RECOGNIZED WITH INAUGURAL DAVID BRANCH LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

MUSKOKA LAKES (Friday, August 15, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Soo Greyhounds President and Governor Tim Lukenda is the inaugural recipient of the David Branch Leader of the Year Award, presented at the OHL’s Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors held at the JW Marriott Resort.

The first representative in Greyhounds history to serve as Chairman of the OHL Board of Governors, Lukenda has been a member of the board since 2017, and has served on the League’s Executive Council since first being elected as Secretary Treasurer in 2019.

“Tim has done a tremendous amount of work and contributed a great deal of his time to not only the Soo Greyhounds, but the Ontario Hockey League as a whole this past year,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “As Chairman of the Board of Governors, he’s been a valuable resource in the transition from David Branch’s leadership throughout my first full season in the role of Commissioner. It is only fitting that he receive this award, named in recognition of David, with the tremendous leadership he has demonstrated.”

The David Branch Leader of the Year Award has been established in recognition of the 45 years of service and dedication to the OHL by former Commissioner David Branch, who retired last summer after first being named to the position back in 1979. The award is a continuation of what was formerly known as the OHL Executive of the Year Award that was last presented to Mike Vellucci of the Plymouth Whalers back in 2012-13. The honour is presented annually to an OHL executive who displays the leadership qualities, hard work, commitment and dedication that David demonstrated in his role, making countless contributions to the OHL, the sport of hockey and to the athletes that make it so special.

“It is a real honour to receive an award named after a person for which I have such great respect and admiration,” said Lukenda. “The Soo Greyhounds are a proud member of the Ontario Hockey League and its an honour for me to be able to represent the Greyhounds on the OHL Board and contribute in any way I can to the bright future of our league.”

Lukenda, whose father Dr. Lou Lukenda acquired majority ownership of the Greyhounds in 2001 and secured the club’s long-term future in Sault Ste. Marie, himself grew up watching the Greyhounds at the old Memorial Gardens. This instilled a lifelong love for both the Hounds and the OHL that continues to result in tremendous contributions to the League today.

Lukenda becomes the second Greyhounds representative to win the OHL’s top executive honour following Sherry Bassin of the 1990-91 Greyhounds who was the second-ever recipient of the award that was established in 1989.

For a complete list of OHL award winners, click here.

OHL Writers Final Draft Rankings

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters is the consensus first overall pick for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Photo by OHL Images.

This might be the most difficult draft to rank in recent memory—not just within the OHL, but across the entire prospect pool. What is certain, however, is that Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa are expected to be the top two selections when the NHL Entry Draft arrives on June 27.

Beyond those two, Porter Martone, Jake O’Brien, and Brady Martin are all in the mix and could be selected in any order as the next OHL prospects off the board.

This is an issue up and down the board. However, I put my list together based on how I see it play out. Included is where NHL Central Scouting had the players ranked among North American Skaters and Goaltenders (for the goalies).

RKPlayerTeamPOSHTWTNHLCS
1Matthew SchaeferErie OttersLD6′ 1.75″1831
2Michael MisaSaginaw SpiritC6′ 0.75″1842
3Porter MartoneBrampton SteelheadsRW6′ 2.75″2086
4Jake O’BrienBrantford BulldogsC6′ 1.75″1724
5Brady MartinSoo GreyhoundsC6′ 0″17811
6Kashawn AitchesonBarrie ColtsLD6′ 1.5″1969
7Cameron ReidKitchener RangersLD5′ 11.75″19323
8Malcolm SpenceErie OttersLW6′ 1.0″20317
9Jack NesbittWindsor SpitfiresC6′ 4.25″18515
10Henry BrzustewiczLondon KnightsRD6′ 1.75″20319
11Luca RomanoKitchener RangersC5′ 11.25″17748
12Ethan CzataNiagara IceDogsC6′ 1.25″17549
13Simon WangOshawa GeneralsLD6′ 5.5″21534
14Kristian EppersonSaginaw SpiritLW5′ 11.5″18347
15Tyler HopkinsKingston FrontenacsC6′ 1.0″17952
16David BedkowskiOwen Sound AttackRD6′ 4.5″21562
17Owen GriffinOshawa GeneralsC5′ 9.75″16070
18Quinn BeauchesneGuelph StormRD6′ 0.0″18575
19Lirim AmidovskiNorth Bay BattalionRW6′ 0.75″180123
20Kieren DervinKingston FrontenacsC6′ 1.0″18371
21Filip EkbergOttawa 67’sRW5′ 9.75166178
22Jimmy LombardiFlint FirebirdsC6′ 0.0″17584
23Shamar MosesNorth Bay BattalionRW6′ 1.0″200104
24Carson CameronPeterborough PetesRD6′ 1.0″193137
25Lucas KarmirisBrampton SteelheadsC5′ 11.0″190151
26Lev KatzinGuelph StormC5′ 8.25″176142
27Travis HayesSoo GreyhoundsRW5′ 10.5″175119
28Evan PassmoreBarrie ColtsRD6′ 4.75″21287
29Tanner LamKitchener RangersRW5′ 9.25″154159
30Jake CrawfordOwen Sound AttackC6′ 2.5″180173
31Daniil SkvortsovGuelph StormLD6′ 3.25″215154
32Aidan LaneBrampton SteelheadsRW6′ 1.0″193112
33Jacob CloutierSaginaw SpiritRW5′ 10.0″171108
34Carson HarmerSaginaw SpiritC5′ 9.75″184107
35Caden TaylorPeterborough PetesLW6′ 2.25″185131
36Xander VelliarisSaginaw SpiritLD6′ 3.0″205202
37Joshua AveryBrantford BulldogsC6′ 0.0″177168
38Parker SnelgroveGuelph StormC6′ 0.0″189180
39Noah ReadLondon KnightsC6′ 0.0″170157
40Ruslan KarimovSarnia StingRW6′ 0.0″195214
41Anthony CristoforoWindsor SpitfiresRD6′ 0.0″181NR
GOALTENDERS
1Aleksei MedvedevLondon KnightsG6′ 2.25″1756
2Jack IvankovicBrampton SteelheadsG5′ 11.0″1784
3Matthew KoprowskiOwen Sound AttackG6′ 2.25″1999
4Ben HrebikBarrie ColtsG6′ 2.0″19019
5Michael McIvorNorth Bay BattalionG6′ 0.5″17226

Aidan Lane – Brampton Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”193Feb 4, 2007RWR80th 2023193 NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2024-2024OHLBrampton Steelheads137613
Aidan Lane of the Brampton Steelheads. Photo by OHL Images.

Aidan Lane, the 6’2” right winger from Canada has steadily climbed the ranks through a combination of skill, intelligence, and relentless work ethic. As he prepares for the next chapter of his career at Harvard University, Lane’s development arc offers a compelling case study in modern player progression.

Born on February 4, 2007, Lane’s hockey journey began in the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), where he played for the Toronto Marlboros. His early seasons were marked by consistent offensive production, including a standout performance in the 2022–2023 season where he tallied 48 points in 35 games at the U16 AAA level. His dominance continued in the OHL Cup, where he notched 13 points in just five games, showcasing his ability to elevate his game in high-stakes situations.

Lane’s transition to prep school hockey at St. Andrew’s College further highlighted his adaptability. Over two seasons with their U18 AAA team, he amassed 148 points in 111 games, including a remarkable 86-point campaign in 2024–2025. His time at St. Andrew’s also included stints in the Prep Hockey Conference (PHC), where he continued to impress with his offensive instincts and playmaking vision.

In 2025, Lane made the leap to the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Brampton Steelheads. Despite joining the team late in the season, he made an immediate impact, recording 13 points in 13 regular season games. While his playoff production dipped—just one assist in six games—his overall performance solidified his status as a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft.

Scouting reports paint a picture of a player with a well-rounded skill set and a high ceiling. Lane is described as a strong forechecking winger who thrives in puck battles and along the boards. His skating is fluid and efficient, allowing him to maintain speed through transitions and create separation from defenders. While not the flashiest skater, his edge work and balance make him difficult to knock off the puck.

Offensively, Lane’s greatest asset is his hockey IQ. He reads the play exceptionally well, often positioning himself in soft areas of the ice to receive passes or exploit defensive breakdowns. His passing is crisp and accurate, and he has a knack for threading the puck through tight lanes. While his shot isn’t overpowering, it’s quick and deceptive, particularly off the rush.

Defensively, Lane is responsible and engaged. He backchecks with purpose and uses his reach effectively to disrupt passing lanes. Coaches have praised his commitment to playing a 200-foot game, and his ability to anticipate plays makes him a valuable asset on the penalty kill. His physicality is another strength—he’s not afraid to throw his weight around, and he often sets the tone with a well-timed hit.

One area scouts have noted for improvement is his consistency. While Lane has shown flashes of brilliance, there are games where he can fade into the background. This is not uncommon for young players adjusting to higher levels of competition, and it’s expected that with more experience, he’ll develop greater game-to-game reliability.

Another point of interest is Lane’s versatility. Though primarily a right winger, he has experience playing on both wings and has even taken shifts at center. This flexibility makes him an appealing option for coaches looking to shuffle lines or adapt to in-game situations.

Looking ahead, Lane’s commitment to Harvard University for the 2025–2026 season adds another layer to his development. The NCAA route will provide him with a structured environment to refine his game while continuing his education. It also suggests a longer development timeline, which could benefit a player like Lane who is still rounding out his toolkit.

Daniil Skvortsov – Guelph Storm – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHIMPORT DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’4”200Jan 13, 2007DL27th 2024215 NARUS
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2024-2025OHLGuelph Storm5951318
Daniil Skvortsov of the Guelph Storm. Photo by OHL Images.

As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, one intriguing name is Daniil Skvortsov—a 6-foot-4, 214-pound defenseman from the Guelph Storm. While he may not be the flashiest prospect in this year’s class, Skvortsov’s blend of size, skating, and cerebral play has folks intrigued. He’s not just a big body patrolling the blue line—he’s a poised, calculated presence with a game built on anticipation, mobility, and effectiveness.

Skvortsov’s 2024–25 season with the Guelph Storm in the OHL was a showcase of steady development. In 59 games, he posted 5 goals and 13 assists for 18 points, along with 12 penalty minutes. While those numbers won’t leap off the page, they reflect his role as a defense-first blueliner who contributes in transition and makes smart, low-risk plays.

Skating and Mobility

For a player of his size, Skvortsov’s skating is a standout trait. His edgework is smooth, and he pivots with ease, allowing him to manage gaps and recover quickly in transition. This mobility makes him highly effective on retrievals and breakouts, where he can either skate the puck out or make a crisp first pass.

Skvortsov’s game is built on anticipation. He reads plays early, positions himself to cut off passing lanes, and rarely chases. His ability to stay in shooting lanes and close space with his reach makes him a frustrating matchup for opposing forwards. He blocks shots and wins most of his puck battles.

While not a high-volume shooter, Skvortsov is selective and efficient while maintaining calmness under pressure. He doesn’t force plays—he keeps the puck moving and limits turnovers. His breakout passes are short, often setting up clean zone exits.

Despite his size, Skvortsov isn’t a punishing hitter. He averages less than half a  hit per game, and scouts have noted a lack of assertiveness in physical battles. While he doesn’t shy away from contact, he tends to lead with his stick and body positioning rather than brute strength.

Skvortsov’s offensive game is understated. He’s not a power-play quarterback or a dynamic puck-rusher, but he has shown flashes of offensive awareness. His timing on pinches is solid, and he’s capable of jumping into the rush when the opportunity presents itself. Still, his offensive upside is likely limited to a secondary role—more of a facilitator than a finisher.

Owen Crawford – Owen Sound Attack – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’3”180May 5, 2007CL33rd 2023180 NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLOwen Sound Attack576713
2024-2025OHLOwen Sound Attack6581725
Jake Crawford of the Owen Sound Attack. Photo by OHL Images.

In the world of junior hockey, where raw talent meets the grind of development, few players embody the balance of promise and projectability quite like Jake Crawford. A 2007-born forward from Barrie, Ontario, Crawford has spent the 2024–25 season with the Owen Sound Attack, carving out a role as a dependable, if understated, presence in all three zones

Offensive Skill Set

Crawford’s offensive game is still developing, but there are flashes of creativity and physical assertiveness that suggest more could be unlocked. He posted 25 points in 65 games this season, a total that doesn’t leap off the page but reflects his role as a secondary contributor on a team that struggled to generate consistent offense.

Where Crawford shows promise is in his ability to retrieve pucks and create chaos below the dots. He’s effective along the boards and in net-front battles, using his reach and frame to shield defenders and extend possessions. His 0.62 primary shot passes per game suggest he can make plays from low-danger areas, particularly when working the cycle or feeding the slot from behind the net.

Skating and Mobility

At 6-foot-3, Crawford’s skating is a work in progress. His stride is long but lacks explosiveness, and he can be slow to accelerate in transition. That said, he moves well enough to stay involved in the play and doesn’t shy away from tracking back on defense.

Improving his lower-body strength and stride mechanics will be key to unlocking more of his offensive potential. Right now, he’s more of a straight-line skater who relies on positioning and anticipation rather than speed to make an impact.

Hockey IQ and Playmaking

Crawford’s hockey sense is one of his more intriguing traits. He reads the game well, particularly in defensive situations, and often positions himself to support the puck or disrupt passing lanes. His pass completion rate of 83 percent is solid, especially considering the volume of touches he receives in transition and on the penalty kill.

Offensively, he’s more of a connector than a creator. He doesn’t often drive play through the middle or orchestrate high-skill sequences, but he makes smart, simple passes that keep the puck moving. His ability to make clean plays under pressure is a valuable asset, especially when paired with more dynamic linemates.

Defensive Play and Physicality

Crawford’s defensive game is where he shines most consistently. He was a regular on Owen Sound’s penalty kill and took shifts against top competition, often tasked with shutting down opposing forwards. His 1.34 minutes per game on the PK with a willingness to block shots.

He also brings a physical edge. While not a punishing hitter, he uses his size to separate opponents from the puck and win battles along the boards.

Intangibles and Leadership

Crawford wore an “A” for the Attack this season, a testament to his leadership and character. On a team that faced its share of adversity, he remained a steadying presence and earned the trust of his coaches in all situations. His willingness to play tough minutes, block shots, and take faceoffs (49 percent on eight draws per game) speaks to a team-first mentality that NHL organizations value in depth players.

He’s also known for his work ethic and maturity off the ice. Teammates and coaches describe him as a quiet leader who leads by example, showing up early, staying late, and putting in the work to improve. That kind of attitude bodes well for his long-term development, especially if he lands in a system that emphasizes structure and accountability.

Crawford enters the 2025 NHL Draft as a potential late-round selection, currently rated as a fourth- or fifth-round candidate by NHL Central Scouting. His size, versatility, and defensive reliability make him an appealing option for teams looking to add depth and character to their prospect pool.

He projects as a bottom-six forward at the professional level, with the potential to carve out a role as a penalty killer and energy-line contributor. If he can improve his skating and add more offensive consistency, there’s a chance he could push for a third-line role down the line.

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.