Around the OHL

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce the full roster for Team CHL (see full roster below) ahead of the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge, which will see the top 2026 NHL Draft-eligible prospects from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) face off against the U.S. National Under-18 Team in a two-game series hosted by the Calgary Hitmen and Lethbridge Hurricanes — Tuesday, November 25 at Calgary’s Scotiabank Saddledome and Wednesday, November 26 at Lethbridge’s VisitLethbridge.com Arena.

Announced in September, defenceman Ryan Lin (Vancouver Giants / WHL), forward Ryan Roobroeck (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), and defenceman Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL) were the first players named to Team CHL after being identified by NHL Central Scouting. They now join 19 additional top NHL Draft prospects from across the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL, who complete the roster representing the league’s next generation at this premier showcase.

The final 19 players were selected from a list of top 2026 NHL Draft prospects developed in consultation with all 32 NHL clubs. Leading the process was General Manager Yanick Lemay (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL), working in collaboration with Head Coach Willie Desjardins (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) and assistant coaches Jay McKee (Brantford Bulldogs / OHL), Sylvain Favreau (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL), and Mike Johnston (Portland Winterhawks / WHL). Together, they assembled a roster featuring 13 forwards, seven defencemen, and two goaltenders selected to represent the CHL at this year’s event.

“The CHL USA Prospects Challenge is a tremendous opportunity for our top draft-eligible players to compete against elite competition from the U.S. National Under-18 Team while showcasing the strength of our player development system across the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL,” said Dan MacKenzie, President of the CHL. “We’re proud of each of these players for earning this opportunity and congratulate them on being selected to represent the CHL at this prestigious event, which shines a light on the next generation of NHL talent.”

“The Team CHL coaching staff is thrilled to have such a deep, talented roster for the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge,” stated Willie Desjardins, Head Coach of Team CHL and General Manager and Head Coach of the Medicine Hat Tigers. “We look forward to coaching the best of the best players from across the Western Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League.”

Among the forwards set to compete for Team CHL are JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), and Egor Shilov (Victoriaville Tigres / QMJHL). Hurlbert leads both the WHL and CHL in scoring with 28 points (11G-17A) through 14 games this season. In the OHL, Klepov ranks second in league scoring with 22 points (9G-13A) – the highest total among first-year players in the OHL – while Belchetz stands alone atop the OHL and ranks tied for second in the CHL with 12 goals. Meanwhile, Shilov continues to pace all QMJHL rookies with 21 points (7G-14A) in 12 games.

On the blueline, Lin and Villeneuve headline a defensive group that also includes Daxon Rudolph (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Chase Reid (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds / OHL), and Charlie Morrison (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) among the seven defencemen named to Team CHL. Reid leads all first-year NHL Draft-eligible defencemen in the OHL with 14 points (2G-12A), ranking second only to Villeneuve (4G-18A-22 PTS) among that same group of blueliners across the CHL. Rudolph has tallied nine points (3G-6A) in 11 games while helping the Raiders climb to No. 8 in the CHL Top-10 Rankings with an unbeaten record in regulation. Meanwhile, Morrison, one of just six QMJHL players to earn a “B” rating from NHL Central Scouting on its preliminary rankings, has yet to appear in a game this season but is expected to be healthy in time for the event.

Between the pipes, Team CHL features Harrison Boettiger (Kelowna Rockets / WHL) and Zachary Jovanovski (Guelph Storm / OHL). Jovanovski has recorded five 30-plus save performances through his first ten starts (5-3-1-0) in 2025-26, while Boettiger has allowed two goals or fewer in two of his four starts this season, posting at least 28 saves in both those outings. Notably, Boettiger is the lone returning player from last year’s event – then representing the U.S. National Under-18 Team – when he made 35 saves and posted a .921 save percentage in a 3-2 loss to Team CHL in Game 2 of the 2024 CHL USA Prospects Challenge.

The 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge will be broadcast live across Canada on TSN and RDS, with Game 1 in Calgary on November 25 and Game 2 in Lethbridge on November 26. Puck drop is set for 6:00 p.m. MT / 8:00 p.m. ET both nights. Tickets are available now at chl.ca/prospectschallenge.

Quick Facts on Team CHL

• All 15 CHL players who received an “A” rating from NHL Central Scouting – identifying them as projected first-round candidates for the 2026 NHL Draft – have been named to Team CHL’s roster.
• This year’s roster features 10 players from the OHL, eight from the WHL, and four from the QMJHL.
• Five American-born players are included, highlighted by Nikita Klepov and Brooks Rogowski, who captured gold with Team USA at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
• Eight additional players represented Canada at that same event, earning bronze medals: Belchetz, Carels, Di Iorio, Edwards, Lin, Pantelas, Preston, and Rudolph.
• Six members of Team CHL – Carels, Di Iorio, Lin, Roobroeck, Rudolph, and Villeneuve – helped Canada capture gold at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship.
• Two players on Team CHL hail from outside North America: Czech forward Adam Novotný and Russian forward Egor Shilov.
• Six players on the team are competing in their first CHL season: Boettiger, Hurlbert, Klepov, Malhotra, Novotný, and Shilov.
• In total, 19 CHL clubs are represented on the roster, including three teams featuring a pair of teammates — Spokane Chiefs (Preston & Harrington), Sarnia Sting (Di Iorio & Edwards), and Québec Remparts (Dagenais & Morrison).

About the CHL USA Prospects Challenge
First introduced in 2024, the CHL USA Prospects Challenge is a best-on-best, two-game series spotlighting the top NHL Draft-eligible players from the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL facing off against the U.S. National Under-18 Team. The inaugural edition, held last November in London and Oshawa, proved a major success — 16 of 22 players on Team CHL were selected in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft. 

The 2025 edition, hosted by the Calgary Hitmen and Lethbridge Hurricanes, will once again spotlight elite NHL prospects projected to headline the 2026 NHL Draft — including 15 players who earned an “A” rating (first-round candidate) on NHL Central Scouting’s Preliminary Players to Watch List.

Fans can catch both games live in Canada on TSN and RDS on November 25 (Calgary) and November 26 (Lethbridge). Puck drop is set for 6:00 p.m. MT / 8:00 p.m. ET. Tickets for both games are available now at chl.ca/prospectschallenge.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.