OHL Writers Final Draft Rankings: 2024

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The 2024 NHL Entry Draft is less than 2 weeks away and it’s time for our final rankings of Ontario Hockey League players available for that draft.

There is sure to be disagreement with this list. But that’s how war rooms work. You make a case for your player the best way you can. Realistically, I see 34 OHL players drafted and 3 goaltenders from this list.

RKPLAYERTEAM
1Sam DickinsonLondon
2Zayne ParekhSaginaw
3Liam GreentreeWindsor
4Beckett SenneckeOshawa
5Jett LuchankoGuelph
6Henry MewsOttawa
7Marek VanackerBrantford
8Cole BeaudoinBarrie
9Sam O’ReillyLondon
10Ben DanfordOshawa
11Lukas FischerSarnia
12Luke MisaMississauga
13Luca MarrelliOshawa
14Jacob BattagliaKingston
15Nathan VilleneuveSudbury
16Anthony RomaniNorth Bay
17Riley PattersonBarrie
18Kevin HeNiagara
19Jakub FibigrMississauga
20Ethan ProcyszynNorth Bay
21Gabriel FrascaKingston
22AJ SpellacyWindsor
23Luke EllinasKitchener
24Frankie MarrelliOttawa
25Kieron WaltonSudbury 
26Owen ProtzBrantford 
27Anthony CristoforoWindsor
28Jared WoolleyLondon
29Owen AllardSault Ste Marie
30Nathan AspinallFlint
31Parker Von RichterMississauga
32Cole DavisWindsor
33Kaden PitreFlint
34Sam McCueOwen Sound
35Dalyn WakelyNorth Bay
36Mason ZebeskiMississauga
37Christopher ThibodeauKingston
38Jack Van VolsenMississauga
39Trent SwickKitchener
40Charlie PaquetteGuelph
41Luca TestaBrantford
42Bode StewartBarrie
43Ty HenryErie
44Ruslan GazizovLondon
45Mitchell YoungSarnia
46Braydon McCallumPeterborough
47Beau JelsmaBarrie
48Finn HardingMississauga
49Max DirracoloKitchener
50Matthew JenkenFlint
GOALTENDERS
1Carter GeorgeOwen Sound
2Ryerson LeendersMississauga
3Landon MillerSault Ste Marie
4Noah BenderOshawa
5Jacob OsterOshawa
6David EgorovBrantford
7Karsen ChartierSarnia

Owen Allard – Soo Greyhounds – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Owen Allard of the Soo Greyhounds. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’2”200Jan 13, 2004CL124th 2020174th N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2020-2021France U20Caen U204415
2021-2022OHLSoo Greyhounds66141024
2022-2023OHLSoo Greyhounds14347
2023-2024WJCCanada5213
2023-2024OHLSoo Greyhounds55182644

Allard made a strong start to the season, earning a place on Team Canada’s roster for the World Junior Championships. However, his performance leveled upon his return from the tournament.

He excels at skating and has good speed, enabling him to effectively forecheck, apply pressure to opponents, and create opportunities. He approaches each forecheck methodically, providing support during offensive rushes and positioning himself strategically. His smooth transitioning and direct playing style make him a valuable asset on the ice.

I think Allard has an average hockey IQ. His main problem arises when he is the recipient of a play, and his difficulties are occasionally noticeable.

He is a strong all-around player, performing well in forechecking and attacking the center of the ice. He is also effective in penalty-killing situations. He might be a worthwhile choice as an older player selected late in the draft, potentially offering value as a fourth-line player.

Cole Davis – Windsor Spitfires – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Cole Davis of the Windsor Spitfires. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’10”175Jun 22, 2006LWL65th, 2022137th N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022ETAHL U16York Simcoe Express27141327
2022-2023GOJHLLaSalle Vipers47242246
2022-2023OHLWindsor Spitfires5112
2023-2024OHLWindsor Spitfires63202141

Cole Davis made offensive strides this season as his confidence grew in his ability to drive to the net, carry the puck, and navigate the middle of the ice.

Much of this can be credited to Davis’ strong work ethic and high level of competitiveness. He may not be the fastest skater, which is typically expected of a smaller player, particularly in his initial strides. As a result, he had to enhance his focus and work ethic, which he successfully achieved. Davis is recognized as one of the top forecheckers in his group.

Davis is a player worth considering in the later rounds of the draft for his potential development. However, there is uncertainty whether his demonstrated work ethic will translate to success against tougher opponents at the next level. He is a gamble worth considering.

Frankie Marrelli – Ottawa 67’s – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Frankie Marrelli of the Ottawa 67’s. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’11”187Feb 16, 2006DL21st 2022135th N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022ETAHL U16Markham Waxers26122335
2022-2023WHC U17Canada White6033
2022-2023OHLOttawa 67’s5041216
2023-2024WJC U18Canada7112
2023-2024Hlinka GretzkyCanada5033
2023-2024OHLOttawa 67’s6091625

Although Marrelli may be smaller than the average defenseman, he excels in defense and exhibits intelligence in handling the puck. He shines in one-on-one situations, excels in shot-blocking, performs well in front of the net and during board battles, positions himself effectively, and demonstrates minimal errors in his defensive zone. Coaches have entrusted him to preserve leads due to his dependable performance.

Questions about his performance arise on the offensive end. While he is a proficient skater, he falls short of excellence, a quality expected from a defender of his stature. Improvement is necessary for him to enhance his speed and technique. Although he can maneuver the puck, he tends to pass it to a teammate when faced with opposition rather than engaging in individual battles.

The issue at hand is whether he can succeed as a defense-oriented defenseman without the offensive advantages. Alternatively, is there belief in his potential and an ability to nurture it?

Parker Von Richter – Mississauga Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Parker Von Richter of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”183May 17, 2005DR51st, 2022184th, N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022GTHL U16Toronto Marlboros4682230
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads6621315
2023-2024OHLMississauga Steelheads6532225

While playing for the Toronto Marlboros in the GTHL U16, Von Richter was perceived to have offensive capabilities from the blueline. However, this aspect of his game did not transition to the OHL during his two seasons with the Mississauga Steelheads. It is now necessary to determine if he is a late bloomer or if this offensive skill set is lacking.

It is certain that his defensive skills are strong. He poses a challenge for opponents in front of his own net when he clears the area for his goalie. Although his skating is only slightly better than average, he maintains tight gap control, directs players to the perimeter, and successfully engages them along the boards. His hockey intelligence in the defensive zone surpasses the norm.

Von Richter shows potential as a solid shutdown defender at the next level. With enhancements to his skating and offensive skills, he could exceed expectations. Despite this, his defensive abilities alone make him a dependable choice in later rounds.

Anthony Cristoforo – Windsor Spitfires – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Anthony Cristoforo of the Windsor Spitfires. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’11”180Feb 23, 2006DR22nd, 2022194th, N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022GTHL U 16Toronto Jr Canadiens65156378
2022-2023OHLWindsor Spitfires6363541
2022-2023WHC U17Canada Red7044
2023-2024OHLWindsor Spitfires6773138

At the start of the season, Cristoforo was classified as a B prospect by NHL Central Scouting on their Players to Watch List, suggesting a selection in the second or third round. However, in the final rankings, he placed 194th among North American skaters, implying he may not be chosen in the draft when considering goaltenders and European players.

Scouts are now questioning the extent to which the decline was a result of a poor team in Windsor versus Cristoforo’s own performance.

Cristoforo excels as a playmaker in the defensive position. He possesses exceptional vision and playmaking abilities. He is a potent threat when in control in the offensive zone, showcasing his danger. While his skating ability is slightly better than average, an improvement in speed would be beneficial. No significant concerns arise in the offensive zone.

Cristoforo needs to enhance his performance in the defensive zone by increasing his physicality and strength to win more battles in front of the net and along the walls. He struggled in 50-50 battles, which requires improvement. Being caught out of position has been an issue as well.

Jack Van Volsen – Mississauga Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Jack Van Volsen of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’2”188Jan 12, 2006CL6th, 2022164th, N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022GTHL U16Toronto Jr Canadiens574564110
2022-2023OHLPeterborough Petes297411
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads3241014
2022-2023WHC U17Canada White6202
2023-2024OHLMississauga Steelheads63201232

Van Volsen can be summed up as disappointment, yet his potential upside is still intriguing. As a late draft pick, he offers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity.

Van Volsen entered the OHL as a talented forward known for his strong two-way play and competitive nature. However, during his time with Peterborough and later Mississauga, he did not emerge as an offensive leader as expected, functioning more as a supporting player. Ultimately, he fell short of initial expectations.

Van Volsen possesses the required skills, but it is uncertain if he is fully committed to putting in the required effort during both the offseason and in-season. While he has good vision and playmaking abilities, his performance is inconsistent. There is room for improvement in utilizing his size to play a more physical game, as well as enhancing his skating to have a more significant influence on matches.

If you think the problems with Van Volsen can be resolved, he may represent a valuable, low-risk, high-reward option towards the end of the draft.

Christopher Thibodeau – Kingston Frontenacs – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Christopher Thibodeau of the Kingston Frontenacs. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’9”144Oct 13, 2005RWR75th, 2021151st N.A.USA
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020Alliance U15Waterloo Wolves31121123
2021-2022OHLKingston Frontenacs51459
2022-2023OHLKingston Frontenacs66172239
2023-2024OHLKingston Frontenacs68213960

When considering Thibodeau, the initial step is to overlook his size and frame, which can be challenging. He possesses the necessary skating ability for being undersized. Additionally, his high-paced performance on every shift makes him a compelling option.

Thibodeau excels in gaining zone entries when on the offensive. After entering the attacking zone, he can easily adjust his pace to facilitate play development. His adept edgework and rapid bursts of speed enable him to navigate through traffic smoothly. He possesses a sharp shooting ability with a swift release and better-than-average accuracy. Nevertheless, his forte might lie in serving as a playmaker from the wing.

Thibodeau can struggle when trying to reach the middle of the ice. While he is not hesitant when it comes to physical play, he can struggle to access high-risk areas at times. Increasing his muscle mass would be beneficial, but given his height of 5’9”, there may be limitations to how much he can realistically gain.

Thibodeau has the necessary skills to become a third-line winger at the next level, but achieving this will require patience and hard work.

Mason Zebeski – Mississauga Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Mason Zebeski of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”186Oct 4, 2005LWL208th, 2021103rd N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020SCTA U15Oakville Rangers258816
2021-2022OJHLOakville Blades49111021
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads665611
2023-2024OHLMississauga Steelheads55241135

I am uncertain about Mason Zebeski’s draft placement, if any, but I think NHL Central Scouting has him placed too high compared to others who have ranked him too low.

Zebeski has not been a significant scorer in any of the levels where he has competed. Currently, he serves as a supporting player who can provide a high level of enthusiasm. He possesses strong skating abilities with rapid accelerations and utilizes his speed and strong work ethic to excel as a successful forechecker. He is unreserved in using his physical presence and positioning himself in front of the net to disrupt play.

Zebeski shows strong defensive skills and excels at penalty killing. If he reaches the NHL, he has the potential to serve as a reliable fourth-line player, contributing energy, defensive prowess, penalty-killing abilities, and occasional offense.

Nathan Aspinall – Flint Firebirds – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Nathan Aspinall of the Flint Firebirds. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’7”189Mar 30, 2006LWL33rd 2022102nd N. A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022ETAHL U16Markham Waxers27172239
2022-2023OHLFlint Firebirds29134
2023-2024OHLFlint Firebirds65181634

Nathan Aspinall’s notable feature is his size. With his current physical build, he could enhance his performance in board battles and in front of the opposition net by adding some bulk. Nevertheless, his consistency at this level needs improvement.

Aspinall is a skilled skater despite his large size. He excels at moving in a straight line and has the ability to reach his intended destinations on the ice. He demonstrates strong awareness on the ice, exhibits proficient close-handling skills, possesses a powerful shot, showcases excellent vision, and has a high hockey IQ to complement his abilities.

Aspinall lacks a standout skill that guarantees his future as an NHL player, but scouts will appreciate his size. He is a player without clear concerns, and with more experience and added muscle, his physicality and work ethic could make him a hidden gem in the draft.