OHL ANNOUNCES 2023-24 REGULAR SEASON AWARD WINNERS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced three individual recipients of the League’s annual regular season awards.
Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy (Top Scorer) & Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy (Top Scoring Right Winger) – David Goyette, Sudbury Wolves

Finishing his season with an impressive 15 points over his final five games, Sudbury Wolves captain David Goyette is the OHL’s top scorer in 2023-24, earning the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy after an outstanding season. Goyette’s 117 points that included 40 goals and 77 assists across 68 games also earn him the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy as the League’s top scoring right winger.

A 19-year-old from Hawkesbury, Ont., Goyette recorded at least three points in a game 18 different times during the regular season, a big reason why Sudbury led the OHL with a total of 328 goals scored, the most by the franchise since 1991-92. His 117 points are the most by a Wolves player since Norm Milley registered 120 in 1998-99.

Goyette, who was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the second round (61st overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft, becomes the third player in Wolves franchise history to claim the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy, following Michael Sgarbossa (2011-12) and Mike Foligno (1978-79).

The Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy was donated by the Toronto Marlboro Athletic Club in memory of Eddie Powers and was first awarded in 1945-46 to Tod Sloan of St. Michael’s who scored 79 points in 25 games. In addition to Goyette, other recent recipients have included Matthew Maggio of the Windsor Spitfires, Wyatt Johnston of the Windsor Spitfires in 2021-22 and Marco Rossi of the Ottawa 67’s in 2019-20.

Selected by the Wolves with the 11th overall pick of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Goyette joins Milley (1998-99) and Foligno (1978-79) as the third member of the Wolves to win the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy. He wraps-up his third OHL season with career totals that include 114 goals, 168 assists and 282 points, good for sixth-most in Wolves franchise history.

The Jim Mahon Trophy was first presented following the 1971-72 season by the players and management of the Peterborough Petes in memory of their right winger Jim Mahon who was accidentally killed that summer. Recent recipients have included Matthew Maggio of the Windsor Spitfires, Lucas Edmonds of the Kingston Frontenacs in 2021-22 and Arthur Kaliyev of the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2019-20.

Dave Pinkney Trophy (Lowest Team Goals-Against) – Michael Simpson and Owen Willmore, London Knights

The London Knights surrendered a league-low 197 goals over their 68-game schedule, a season that resulted in the franchise’s seventh Hamilton Spectator Trophy as OHL regular season champions. Backstopping the Knights to success was the goaltending tandem of Michael Simpson and Owen Willmore, who earn this year’s Dave Pinkney Trophy for their efforts.

Awarded annually since 1949, the Dave Pinkney Trophy is presented to the goaltenders of the team with the lowest goals-against average during the regular season.

A hometown product, Simpson finished the season with a league-low 2.61 goals-against average and placed second in the OHL with 34 wins. The former OHL champion and Playoff MVP also finished tied for the league-lead in shutouts with four, giving him a career total of 10. A former 10th round (193rd overall) pick by Peterborough in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection, Simpson played to a career regular season mark of 78-50-6-4 with a 2.94 goals-against average and .904 save percentage over 144 games.

Willmore ended his season on a 12-game run of undefeated hockey in regulation, a streak that dates back to Dec. 15th. The 19-year-old from London played to a mark of 16-4-0-2 with a 2.96 goals-against average and .899 save percentage, recording one shutout over 23 games. Formerly London’s 14th round (279th overall) pick in 2020, Willmore is a career 20-4-0-2, making six appearances with the Knights during the 2021-22 season and an additional three games in the 2023 OHL Championship Series.

This marks the fifth time London goaltenders have earned the award and the first since Tyler Parsons and Brendan Burke of the 2016 Memorial Cup championship team last did so. Other past London recipients have included Gerald Coleman (2004, 2005), Adam Dennis (2005), Ryan MacDonald (2004) and Pat Riggin (1977).

F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy (Best Rookie Goals-Against Average) – Jack Ivankovic, Mississauga Steelheads

Jack Ivankovic of the Mississauga Steelheads is the recipient of the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy, leading all qualified rookie netminders with a 2.72 goals-against average.

A 16-year-old from Mississauga, Ont., Ivankovic had an excellent rookie season, going 14-5-4-0 with a .915 save percentage and one shutout over 25 games. His first career shutout came on Nov. 25th as he stopped all 48 shots he faced in a 5-0 road win over the Erie Otters.

Ivankovic, who was selected by Mississauga with the seventh overall pick of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, becomes the first Steelheads goaltender to ever win the award. He’s the OHL’s first 16-year-old goaltender to claim the honour since Michael DiPietro of the 2015-16 Windsor Spitfires.

The trophy is named after F.W. “Dinty” Moore of Port Colborne, Ont., who served as OHA President from 1942-45. In order to qualify for this rookie award, a goaltender must play a minimum of 900 minutes. Last year’s winner was Zach Bowen of the London Knights who now plays for the Peterborough Petes.


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

CHL Top-10 Rankings: Week 22

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the Week 22 edition of its CHL Top 10 Rankings for the 2023-24 season.
 
For the eighth time this season, the QMJHL’s Baie-Comeau Drakkar hold the no. 1 spot. The WHL’s Prince George Cougars, who are 9-0-2 in their last 11 games, jump up to second place, their highest ranking since Week 13. The OHL’s Saginaw Spirit, winners of four straight, move up two spots into the no. 3 position.
 
The Moose Jaw Warriors return to the CHL Top 10 rankings for the first time since Week 19 as they slot in at no. 10. 

The next rankings will be released the week of March 11 following the 23rd week of regular season action in all three member leagues of the CHL.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 22
1. Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL)
2. Prince George Cougars (WHL)
3. Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
4. London Knights (OHL)
5. Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
6. Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)
7. Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
8. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
9. Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
10. Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2023-24-chl-top-10-rankings-week-22/.

CHL Game of the Week schedule announced for March on CHL TV, TSN+, and RDS.ca

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is excited to announce today its CHL Game of the Week broadcast schedule for March on CHL TV, TSN+, and RDS.ca. The CHL Game of the Week is available to fans as a ‘freeview’ on CHL TV and for live streaming on TSN+ and RDS.ca alongside additional games.
 
On March 6 fans can tune into CHL TV and RDS.ca to watch the CHL’s top club, the Baie-Comeau Drakkar, who feature New York Islanders prospect Justin Gill and 2024 NHL Draft prospect Justin Poirier, host Tampa Bay Lighting prospect Ethan Gauthier and the Drummondville Voltigeurs. 
 
That same night, San Jose Sharks prospect Quentin Musty and the Sudbury Wolves welcome the Soo Greyhounds, who feature NHL prospects such as the New York Rangers’ Bryce McConnell-Barker and the Detroit Red Wings’ Andrew Gibson, on TSN+. 
 
The following week, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Maxim Massé’s Chicoutimi Sagueneens, who went 10-0-0 in February, visit 2025 Memorial Cup hosts, the Rimouski Oceanic, on March 13 on RDS.ca. 
 
Two days later, fans catch check out 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna when his Medicine Hat Tigers visit the Swift Current Broncos and their NHL prospects, such as Conor Geekie (ARI) and Owen Pickering (PIT), on CHL TV and TSN+. 
 
The 20th and final week of CHL Game of the Week action concludes March 19 on CHL TV and TSN+ when the Guelph Storm, who feature 2024 NHL Draft prospect Jett Luchanko and Washington Capitals prospect Jake Karabela, visit the Aud to battle a Kitchener Rangers squad that includes NHL prospects such as 50-goal man Carson Rehkopf (SEA) as well as Hunter Brzustewicz (CGY).
 
Later that week on March 22, the experienced Victoriaville Tigres and their crop of veterans, that includes Tommy Cormier and Maxime Pellerin, take a trip to Rouyn-Noranda to visit the QMJHL’s scoring leader, Antonin Verreault, and the Huskies on RDS.ca.
 
Viewers can watch the Game of the Week on CHL TV via the CHL mobile app, in addition to Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire, and online at watch.chl.ca. Moreover, fans can follow chl.ca for comprehensive game previews detailing must-watch players and on social media for live in-game coverage by following #CHLGOTW.
 
This upcoming spring, TSN will air complete coverage of all three of the CHL’s member leagues (WHL, OHL & QMJHL) Championship Series, while RDS will air complete coverage of the QMJHL Championship Series. TSN and RDS will also deliver complete coverage of the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow in Saginaw, Michigan, from May 24 to June 2, which will mark the first time that the CHL’s championship event has been held in the state of Michigan.
 
CHL Game of the Week – March 2024 – Broadcast Schedule
 
Wed. March 6 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Drummondville Voltigeurs vs. Baie-Comeau Drakkar on CHL TV & RDS.ca 
Wed. March 6 at 7:05 p.m. ET – Soo Greyhounds vs. Sudbury Wolves on TSN+
Wed. March 13 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Chicoutimi Sagueneens vs. Rimouski Oceanic on RDS.ca
Fri. March 15 at 7:00 p.m. ST – Medicine Hat Tigers vs. Swift Current Broncos on CHL TV and TSN+
Tues. March 19 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Guelph Storm vs. Kitchener Rangers on CHL TV and TSN+
Fri. March 22 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Victoriaville Tigres vs. Rouyn-Noranda Huskies on RDS.ca

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Month for games played in February 2024.

Player of the Month – David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)

Seattle Kraken prospect David Goyette of the Sudbury Wolves is the OHL Player of the Month, leading the League with 25 points including eight goals and 17 assists over 13 games played in February. Increasing his point streak to 15 consecutive games, Goyette registered points in all 13 showings this month including a trio of three-point performances on Feb. 9 against the Niagara IceDogs, Feb. 19 against the Guelph Storm, and Feb. 25 against the Mississauga Steelheads. Goyette tallied his sixth four-point showing of the season on Feb. 11, tallying a goal and three assists in an 8-7 overtime win against the Steelheads. He helped the Wolves climb to second in the Eastern Conference standings with a February record of 8-4-0-1, clinching a spot in the OHL Playoffs. He’s the first Wolves player to earn OHL Player of the Month honours since Michael Sgarbossa in February 2012.

A soon-to-be 20-year-old, Goyette leads all OHL point-getters with 95 points (36-59-95) through 57 games played this season. The Hawkesbury, Ont. native ranks fifth in goal-scoring and second in assists, registering a plus/minus rating of plus-15. A 5-foot-11, 181Ib. right-winger, Goyette is in his third season with the Wolves, having recorded 110 goals, 150 assists and 260 points over 186 career regular season games since being selected by Sudbury with the 11th overall pick of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection. Goyette was drafted by the Seattle Kraken with their second round (61st overall) pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, signing a three-year entry-level contract with the club on Apr. 10, 2023. Goyette won a gold medal with Canada at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

Defenceman of the Month – Sam Dickinson (London Knights)

Top 2024 NHL Draft-eligible prospect Sam Dickinson of the London Knights is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, recording 20 points including four goals and 16 assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-9 over 12 games. Dickinson helped the League-leading Knights play to a February mark of 10-2 as they clinched a spot in the OHL Playoffs for a 23rd straight season. Recording points in 11 of his 12 outings, Dickinson recorded a three-point showing on Feb. 7, registering three assists in a 9-2 win over Flint. He helped lead the Knights to an overtime victory over the Generals on Feb.11, tallying a pair of assists including one on the game-winner. Dickinson registered a goal and an assist on Feb. 24, helping the Knights earn a 4-3 shootout win over the Ottawa 67’s. Dickinson follows teammate Oliver Bonk in being named OHL Defenceman of the Month. They’re the first set of teammates to claim the honour in the same season since Knights rearguards Evan Bouchard and Adam Boqvist last did so in 2018-19.

A 17-year-old from Toronto, Ont., Dickinson sits third among OHL defencemen with 63 points (17-46–63) over 58 games while his plus/minus rating of plus-45 ranks second among all OHL skaters. Selected fourth overall by the Niagara IceDogs in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot-3, 195Ib. defenceman has registered 26 goals, 60 assists, and 86 points in 120 played over two seasons with the Knights. He helped the Knights reach the OHL Championship Series last spring after being voted to the OHL’s first all-rookie team, recording four goals and four assists during their 21-game playoff run. Dickinson won gold with Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup last summer and was the seventh ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Midseason NHL Draft Rankings released on Jan. 12.

Goaltender of the Month – Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)

Winnipeg Jets prospect Dom DiVincentiis of the North Bay Battalion is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for February, playing to a 7-1 record with a 2.39 goals-against average and .916 save percentage along with a shutout. Helping the Battalion clinch a spot in the OHL Playoffs, DiVincentiis opened the month with his first shutout of the season on Feb. 1 with a 22-save performance against the Mississauga Steelheads. DiVincentiis had a pair of 30+ save performances, earning wins on Feb. 16 against Ottawa and Feb. 23 against Saginaw as the Battalion now sit third in the Eastern Conference standings. This marks DiVincentiis’ third OHL Goaltender of the Month honour, following previous recognition in January and March 2023.

A soon-to-be 20-year-old from Bolton, Ont., DiVincentiis has played to a season record of 21-9-3-1 including a shutout, along with a 3.22 goals-against average and .891 save percentage. Selected in the sixth round (116th overall) by North Bay in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot-3, 200lb. netminder has appeared in 110 career regular season contests, recording a 71-26-5-2 record, 2.68 goals-against average and .907 save percentage over three seasons. Backstopping the Battalion to back-to-back Eastern Conference Championship Series appearances, the reigning OHL Goaltender of the Year has had great success in the playoffs, making 26 appearances while accruing a record of 13-9-4-0 with a 2.76 goals-against average and .914 save percentage.  A former seventh round pick of the Winnipeg Jets in the 2022 NHL Draft, DiVincentiis signed a three-year entry-level contract with the club on July 5, 2023.

Rookie of the Month – Riley Patterson (Barrie Colts)

Barrie Colts forward Riley Patterson is the OHL Rookie of the Month for the second month in a row, leading all first-year talents with 18 points including 10 goals and eight assists over 12 games. Patterson put together six multi-point performances in the month of February, including a a three-point effort with a pair of goals and an assist on Feb. 17. Patterson tallied five points in his final two games of the month, closing out February with a second three-point performance on Feb. 28, scoring two goals and an assist to help the Colts defeat the Sudbury Wolves. Patterson becomes the first player to earn two OHL Rookie of the Month honours in the same season since Shane Wright (Kingston) and Mason McTavish (Peterborough) did so in 2019-20.

A soon-to-be 18-year-old from Burlington, Ont., Patterson currently leads OHL rookies with 26 goals, adding 30 assists for 56 points over 56 games. The 6-foot, 194Ib. centreman joined the Colts last summer, coming over in a trade from the Flint Firebirds who selected him in the third round (57th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. A former OHL Cup champion with the Mississauga Senators U16 program, Patterson was the OJHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, recording 73 points (30-43–73) over 52 games with the North York Rangers Jr. A program. Patterson was the 116th ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Midseason NHL Draft Rankings released on Jan. 12.

2023-24 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
February – David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)
January – Calum Ritchie (Oshawa Generals)
December – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
November – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)

Defenceman of the Month:
February – Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
January – Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
December – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers)

Goaltender of the Month:
February – Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
January – Michael Simpson (London Knights)
December – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)

Rookie of the Month:
February – Riley Patterson (Barrie Colts)
January – Riley Patterson (Barrie Colts)
December – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
November – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for February, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.

East Division –  Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)

Kingston Frontenacs goaltender Mason Vaccari is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Vaccari recently completed his final semester of high school with an 89 percent average at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, and is currently achieving high grades in University Economics and Human Development courses.

“Mason’s dedication to his studies is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Holy Cross Teacher, Mrs. Shannon Perugino. “Not only does he give everything to his assignments and daily work, but he also approaches each lesson with curiosity and empathy. Mason is constantly asking questions, engaging in conversation, and motivating classmates to share their ideas when working in groups. Despite demands from the OHL, he approaches his academics with the same level of determination and focus, setting a shining example for his peers.”

“Mason is an exemplary example of what it means to be a student athlete, and it has been a privilege to work with him at Holy Cross,” said Frontenacs Academic Advisor, Kristi LeSarge.

Selected in the fourth round (61st overall) by Kingston in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Vaughan Kings U16 program, the Mississauga, Ont. native has played to a 23-24-2-0 record this season, along with an .879 save percentage and 3.69 goals-against average. Playing in his second season with the Frontenacs, Vaccari has played to a career mark of 34-38-2-0, with a .887 save percentage and 3.63 goals-against average.

Central Division –  Nolan Laird (North Bay Battalion)

North Bay Battalion rookie forward Nolan Laird is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Laird achieved an “A” average in his first semester of grade 12 studies, including an 86 percent average in Business Fundamentals, 86 percent average in World Issues, 98 percent average in Healthy and Active Living, and an 86 percent average in Career Studies. Laird is currently holding high marks in Data Management, Kinesiology, and Co-Op Education at Chippewa Secondary School.

“Nolan is an exemplary student-athlete whose drive and commitment enable him to excel both on the ice and in the classroom,” said Battalion Academic Advisor, Stephanie Silverthorn.

The 18-year-old Port Perry, Ont. product has played 24 games this season, recording a goal and an assist for the Battalion. The 6-foot-1, 180Ib. centreman was originally selected in the eighth round (145th overall) by North Bay in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Clarington Toros U16 program.

Midwest Division – Rowan Topp (Guelph Storm)

Guelph Storm defenceman Rowan Topp is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Topp achieved excellent grades in two grade 12 university-level courses last semester, including an overall 93 percent average in Biology and Advanced Functions at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School.

“Rowan is the consummate student-athlete,” said Storm Academic Advisor, Colleen Driscoll. “His teachers consistently note his exceptional work habits, his conscientious approach to his studies, and his aptitude for their subject matter. Rowan’s outstanding academic achievement reflects his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.”

Selected in the third round (59th overall) by Guelph in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the North York Rangers U16 program, the 6-foot-2, 195lb. St. Anns, Ont. native has registered four assists over 52 games played in Guelph this season.

West Division – Josh Glavin (Saginaw Spirit)

Saginaw Spirit defenceman Josh Glavin is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Glavin achieved outstanding grades in his first semester of grade 12 studies, including an 80 percent average in English, 82 percent average in Advanced Functions, 77 percent average in Biology, and a 99 percent average in Team Sports. Glavin is currently holding high marks in Kinesiology, Chemistry and Astronomy at Heritage High School and Northern Collegiate.

“Josh is an assiduous student with an outstanding work ethic,” said Spirit Academic Advisor, Pamela Moretuzzo. “He is scholastically gifted and very dedicated to his studies. Josh is a strong willed and driven individual which is evident in his 84% average while also attending many scholastic, athletic, and community service commitments.  Josh dedicates a great deal of time in and out of school to be successful in his academics, as he has been enrolled in university level courses. He often attends additional study sessions outside of his class hours to improve his understanding of the course material.  He is a well-rounded and conscientious student and individual.

“Josh is also committed to improving his hockey skills as a member of the Saginaw Spirit team,” Moretuzzo added. “He welcomes hockey, academic, and personal challenges and works diligently to accomplish his goals. He has outstanding sportsmanship and a positive attitude both on and off of the ice. Josh is an exceptional young man and a pleasure to know.  He is polite, responsible, honest, and hard-working.  Due to his superior work ethic and perseverance, Josh will surely succeed at any goal he sets for himself,” she added.

The 17-year-old Sarnia, Ont. product has played 31 games this season, recording four assists for the Spirit. The 6-foot-2, 190Ib. blueliner was originally selected in the third round (54th overall) by Saginaw in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Lambton Jr. Sting U16 program.

2023-24 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
February – Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
January – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
December – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)
November – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)

Central Division:
February – Nolan Laird (North Bay Battalion)
January – Jaiden Newton (Barrie Colts)
December – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)
November – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves)
October – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)

Midwest Division:
February – Rowan Topp (Guelph Storm)
January – Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters)
December – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
November – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights)
October – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)

West Division:
February – Josh Glavin (Saginaw Spirit)
January – Jacob Brown (Flint Firebirds)
December – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds)
October – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)

The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.

A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.

A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.

About Hockley Valley Resort
Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.

Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.

OHL CUP PRESENTED BY FPS PAYMENT U16 AAA TOP 10 RANKINGS – WEEK 14

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Week 14 edition of the weekly U16 AAA rankings for the 2024 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament presented by FPS Payment and hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League.

The 2024 OHL Cup will feature 20 teams consisting of talent eligible for the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. Starting with three Wild Card Play-In matchups on Monday, March 25, all games will be played at the Scotiabank Pond in Toronto until the Championship Final moves to the Mattamy Athletic Centre on Saturday, March 30.

The weekly rankings are determined by a panel of OHL Central Scouting staff and represent the top teams that are competing to play in the annual year-end championship tournament.

U16 AAA Rankings for the 2024 OHL Cup – Week 14

RANK:TEAM:LAST WEEKWEEKS RANKED
1Vaughan Kings (GTHL)114
2Barrie Colts (OMHA)214
3Oakville Rangers (OMHA)414
4North York Rangers (GTHL)514
5Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)314
6Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)614
7Mississauga Rebels (GTHL)714
8Ottawa Myers Automotive (HEO)813
9York-Simcoe Express (OMHA)99
10Halton Hurricanes (OMHA)––
    
HMLondon Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE)––
HMPeterborough Petes (OMHA)––
HMUpper Canada Cyclones (HEO)1013
HMOshawa Generals (OMHA)––

The Ottawa Valley Titans are the first team to punch their ticket to the 2024 OHL Cup, upsetting the previously 10th-ranked Upper Canada Cyclones in the first round of the HEO U16 AAA playoffs. Ottawa Myers Automotive is currently one win away from clinching, leading the Eastern Ontario Wild in their first round series. The Halton Hurricanes make their first appearance of the season in the Top-10 rankings, playing to a perfect 4-0 record to this point in their OMHA West AAA round robin playdown. Other teams holding perfect records include the Barrie Colts, York-Simcoe Express and Peterborough Petes, all at 5-0.

For more information, visit OHLCup.ca.

CHL Top 10: Week 21

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the Week 21 edition of its CHL Top 10 Rankings for the 2023-24 season.

With three straight wins on home ice, the QMJHL’s Baie-Comeau Drakkar jump back up to the no. 1 spot while the Saskatoon Blades drop to no. 2 after they lost their lone game of the week. The OHL’s London Knights remain at no. 3 after a pair of road wins.

The QMJHL’s Rouyn-Noranda Huskies are the only newcomer to the rankings in Week 21 as they take the no. 10 spot on the back of three road wins.

The next rankings will be released the week of March 4 following the 22nd week of regular season action in all three member leagues of the CHL.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 21
1. Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL)
2. Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
3. London Knights (OHL)
4. Prince George Cougars (WHL)
5. Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
6. Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)
7. Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
8. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
9. Swift Current Broncos (WHL)
10. Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2023-24-chl-top-10-rankings-week-21/.

CHL Top-10 Rankings: Week 20

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the Week 20 edition of its CHL Top-10 Rankings for the 2023-24 season.

After another perfect week the Saskatoon Blades of the Western Hockey League (WHL) hold the top spot in the CHL rankings for a fourth week in a row. The Blades have outscored their opponents 57-26 over their current 13-0-1 run. Back in second this week is the Baie-Comeau Drakkar of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), the Drakkar continue to lead the CHL in wins with 43. Sliding a spot this week to third is the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), who had their CHL-best point streak halted at 23 games.

A pair of different clubs join the CHL Top 10 Rankings this week. For the first time since week 13 the Victoriaville Tigres of the QMJHL climb back into the rankings after a shootout win over Baie-Comeau extended their win streak to five. Meanwhile the Swift Current Broncos of the WHL make their first appearance of the season following a perfect 4-0-0 week that culminated with a win over the Moose Jaw Warriors.

The next rankings will be released the week of February 26, following the 21st week of regular season action in all three member leagues of the CHL.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 20
1. Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
2. Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL)
3. London Knights (OHL)
4. Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)
5. Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
6. Prince George Cougars (WHL)
7. Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
8. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
9. Victoriaville Tigres (QMJHL)
10. Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2023-24-chl-top-10-rankings-week-20/.

CHL announces broadcast schedule on NHL Network for the month of February

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is thrilled to announce a schedule of games during the month of February that fans in the United States can enjoy on NHL Network (see schedule below).

Starting this week, on Valentine’s Day (February 14), viewers in the U.S. can catch 2025 NHL Draft prospect Malcolm Spence, Chicago Blackhawks prospect Martin Misiak, Anaheim Ducks’ 2023 second-round pick Carey Terrance, and the Erie Otters welcome the Niagara IceDogs, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Kevin He, and the OHL’s top rookie goal scorer Ryan Roobroeck to Erie Insurance Arena.

The following Wednesday, on February 21, Anaheim Ducks prospect Coulson Pitre and the Flint Firebirds will travel along the I-75 to Saginaw to face the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow hosts, the No. 4-ranked Saginaw Spirit. The Spirit is led by 2025 NHL Draft prospect Michael Misa, Montreal Canadiens prospect Owen Beck, and projected 2024 NHL Draft first-round pick Zayne Parekh, who has recorded 12 goals and 29 points in his last 15 games since January 6.

To cap off the month, on February 28, U.S. fans can tune into NHL Network to see Colorado Avalanche 2023 first-round pick Calum Ritchie, Minnesota Wild prospect Rasmus Kumpulainen, and the Oshawa Generals head to London to face Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Oliver Bonk, and the No.2-ranked Knights, who have earned a point in 23 straight games (21-0-0-2), the longest streak of its kind in the CHL this season.

In addition to airing these games, this spring, NHL Network will also broadcast in the United States the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow in Saginaw, Michigan, from May 24 to June 2. The 2024 Memorial Cup will mark the first time that the CHL’s championship event has been held in the State of Michigan. As hosts, the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) will be one of four teams to participate in the tournament alongside the playoff champion from each of the OHL, Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), and Western Hockey League (WHL).

Over February, viewers can also catch several CHL games on CHL TV, TSN+, and RDS.ca as part of the CHL Game of the Week program. Additionally, this upcoming spring, TSN will air complete coverage of all three of the CHL’s member leagues (WHL, OHL & QMJHL) Championship Series, while RDS will air complete coverage of the QMJHL Championship Series. TSN and RDS will also broadcast the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow to viewers in Canada, while fans outside of North America can catch the CHL championship event on CHL TV.

CHL on NHL Network – February 2024 – Broadcast Schedule

Wed. Feb. 14 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Niagara IceDogs vs. Erie Otters on NHL Network

Wed. Feb. 21 at 7:05 p.m. ET – Flint Firebirds vs. Saginaw Spirit on NHL Network

Wed. Feb. 28 at 7:00 p.m. ET – Oshawa Generals vs. London Knights on NHL Network

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Month for games played in January 2024.

Player of the Month – Calum Ritchie (Oshawa Generals)

Colorado Avalanche prospect Calum Ritchie of the Oshawa Generals is the OHL Player of the Month, leading the league with 26 points including nine goals and 17 assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-19 over 13 games. Ritchie’s month of January featured five different performances with at least three points, including two five-point showings that came on Jan. 6th at Flint and Jan. 19th vs. Peterborough. He helped the Generals climb the Eastern Conference standings with a January record of 8-3-1-1, earning three star recognition six different times throughout the course of the month.

A recently-turned 19-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Ritchie leads the Generals in regular season scoring despite having played in just 28 games. His 1.68 points-per-game resulting from 16 goals and 31 assists are the fourth-highest rate in the OHL this season while he’s also registered a plus/minus rating of plus-28. A 6-foot-2, 179Ib. centreman, Ritchie is in his third season with the Generals, having recorded 59 goals, 92 assists and 151 points over 152 career regular season games since being selected by Oshawa with the second overall pick of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. Ritchie was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche with their first round (27th overall) pick last summer. A former OHL first all-rookie team member in 2021-22, Ritchie won a gold medal with Canada at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, leading the tournament in scoring before capturing bronze at the 2023 IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championship.

Also considered for the award this month, London Knights forward Easton Cowan finished January with 21 points (8-13–21) over 10 games.

Defenceman of the Month – Oliver Bonk (London Knights)

Philadelphia Flyers prospect Oliver Bonk of the London Knights is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, recording 21 points including 10 goals and 11 assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-14 over 10 games. Bonk helped the Knights play to a January mark of 9-0-0-2 as they climbed into first place in the OHL standings, recording points in nine of his 10 outings. He recorded three different two-goal outings along with five multi-point contests to begin the 2024 calendar year, headlined by five points (2-3–5) in a 9-2 road win over the Sarnia Sting on Jan. 10th. Three of Bonk’s January goals were game-winners while six of his 10 tallies came on the man advantage.

A newly-turned 19-year-old from Ottawa, Ont., Bonk sits third among OHL defencemen with 51 points (16-35–51) over 38 games while his 12 power play markers are tied for the league-lead among rearguards. The 6-foot-2, 179Ib. defender has played parts of three seasons in London, recording 26 goals, 68 assists and 94 points over 115 regular season games. He helped the Knights reach the OHL Championship Series last spring, recording 11 assists during their 21-game playoff run. Bonk was voted to the OHL’s second all-rookie team in 2022-23 before being selected by Philadelphia with their first round (22nd overall) pick last summer. Bonk won gold with Canada at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and represented Canada at this past month’s 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Sweden. The Knights selected Bonk in the second round (26th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.

Also considered for the award this month, Saginaw Spirit defender Zayne Parekh registered 21 points (9-12–21) over 11 games.

Goaltender of the Month – Michael Simpson (London Knights)

London Knights netminder Michael Simpson is the OHL Goaltender of the Month, playing to a record of 5-0-0-1 with a 1.32 goals-against average, .950 save percentage and one shutout over six outings. Simpson carried a five-game winning streak into the month of January, stretching that to 10 games while still remaining undefeated in regulation since Dec. 10th to close-out the month. He backstopped the Knights to his second shutout of the season on Jan. 14th vs. Owen Sound.

A 20-year-old London native, Simpson leads the OHL in both goals-against average (2.54) and wins (23) while also posting a .909 save percentage and two shutouts over 33 games. Now in his third OHL season, last year’s OHL Playoff MVP has played to a career mark of 67-47-5-4 with a 2.96 goals-against average, .905 save percentage and eight shutouts over 129 regular season games between London and Peterborough. The 6-foot-1, 198Ib. goaltender was originally Peterborough’s 10th round (193rd overall) pick in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection. Simpson, who was voted to the OHL’s third all-star team last season, attended training camp with the Pittsburgh Penguins prior to the start of the 2023-24 campaign.

Also considered for the award this month, Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals played to a record of 7-3-0-1 in January, posting a 2.00 goals-against average and .929 save percentage with one shutout over 11 outings.

Rookie of the Month – Riley Patterson (Barrie Colts)

Barrie Colts forward Riley Patterson is the OHL Rookie of the Month, leading all first-year talents with 15 points including five goals and 10 assists over 12 games. Patterson put together a trio of multi-point performances, helping the Colts score wins over the Soo Greyhounds and Niagara IceDogs with three-point efforts on Jan. 6th and Jan. 20th. He closed out January with a career-high four points, scoring twice while adding two assist in a 7-6 overtime loss to the Owen Sound Attack on Jan. 31st.

A 17-year-old from Burlington, Ont., Patterson currently leads OHL rookies with 16 goals, adding 22 assists for 38 points over 44 games. The 6-foot, 194Ib. centreman joined the Colts last summer, coming over in a trade from the Flint Firebirds who selected him in the third round (57th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. A former OHL Cup champion with the Mississauga Senators U16 program, Patterson was the OJHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, recording 73 points (30-43–73) over 52 games with the North York Rangers Jr. A program. Patterson was the 116th ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Midseason NHL Draft Rankings released on Jan. 12th.

Also considered for the award this month, December Rookie of the Month award recipient Jake O’Brien of the Brantford Bulldogs put up 13 points (2-11–13) over 11 contests.

2023-24 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
January – Calum Ritchie (Oshawa Generals)
December – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
November – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)

Defenceman of the Month:
January – Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
December – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers)

Goaltender of the Month:
January – Michael Simpson (London Knights)
December – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)

Rookie of the Month:
January – Riley Patterson (Barrie Colts)
December – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
November – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.