OHL ANNOUNCES CONCLUSION OF 2019-20 REGULAR SEASON

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The League now prepares for the 2020 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore to be conducted live online at ontariohockeyleague.com on Saturday, April 4 at 9:00am

Press Release

Toronto, Ont. – Ontario Hockey League Commissioner David Branch announced today the conclusion of the 2019-20 OHL Regular Season.

Following a meeting with the OHL Board of Governors and consultation with medical professionals, it was determined that the remaining 56 games of the 2019-20 OHL Regular Season schedule will be cancelled and not played.

“In the interest of the safety of our players, officials, staff, fans and the general public, it’s been agreed that the cancellation of the remainder of the 2019-20 regular season is the proper course of action to take at this time,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch.

“We are continuing to monitor ongoing public health developments regarding COVID-19. When it is safe and we may resume play, we will advise on the status of the 2020 OHL Playoffs. We thank OHL players and their families, fans and partners for their continued patience and understanding throughout this challenging situation.”

The League has additionally confirmed that the 2020 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore will be held live online at ontariohockeyleague.com on Saturday, April 4 beginning at 9:00am.

The 2020 OHL Priority Selection Order of Selection will be as follows:

Final OHL regular season standings are based off each OHL team having played an equal number of regular season games (61 games)

NON-PLAYOFF TEAMS:
1. North Bay Battalion – 38 pts.
2. Niagara IceDogs – 42 pts.*
3. Sarnia Sting – 48 pts.
4. Soo Greyhounds – 56 pts.

PLAYOFF TEAMS:
5. Kingston Frontenacs – 42 pts.*
6. Hamilton Bulldogs – 56 pts.
7. Mississauga Steelheads – 59 pts.
8. Erie Otters – 61 pts.
9. Barrie Colts 62 pts.
10. Owen Sound Attack – 68 pts.**
11. Sudbury Wolves – 68 pts.**
12. Guelph Storm – 72 pts.
13. Oshawa Generals – 73 pts.
14. Windsor Spitfires – 76 pts.***
15. Peterborough Petes – 76 pts.***
16. Flint Firebirds – 80 pts.
17. Kitchener Rangers – 83 pts.
18. Saginaw Spirit – 85 pts.
19. London Knights – 90 pts.
20. Ottawa 67’s – 99 pts.

NOTES:
* – Kingston and Niagara are tied for 8th place in the Eastern Conference with 42 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Kingston receives the higher position in the standings.

** – Sudbury and Owen Sound are tied with 68 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Sudbury receives the higher position in the standings.

*** – Peterborough and Windsor are tied with 76 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Peterborough receives the higher position in the standings.

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. For more information visit http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/.

Vaughn CHL Team of the Week

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 24th edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from March 2-8.

Leading the group is Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Nick Robertson of the Peterborough Petes who wrapped up the week with 10 points counting five goals and five assists over three appearances. Standing atop the circuit with 55 goals, Robertson continued to fill the net over the past week, counting back-to-back multi-goal performances including Saturday’s 5-1 win over the Mississauga Steelheads in which he tallied twice en route to first-star recognition. For his efforts, Robertson was named the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

Also up front is 2020 NHL Draft hopeful William Dufour of the Drummondville Voltigeurs whose week totaled nine points counting six goals and three assists in a trio of contests. In posting back-to-back hat-tricks, Dufour’s best showing came in Saturday’s 8-2 road victory over the Saint John Sea Dogs in which he finished with a season high of five points and first-star honours. In recognition, Dufour was also named the Ultramar QMJHL Player of the Week.

Rounding out the forward ranks is Los Angeles Kings draft pick Akil Thomas of the Peterborough Petes who finished the week with four goals and five assists for nine points through three games. Thomas’ best performance came Sunday against his former club in the Niagara IceDogs as he put up a career-high six-point effort to lead his squad to a 12-1 road win.

On the blue line, Winnipeg Jets prospect Declan Chisholm of the Peterborough Petes put up an impressive showing as he closed out the week with eight points counting two goals and six assists over three contests. Chisholm, who sits third among all OHL rearguards with 69 points on the season, continued to add to his totals as his week counted a four-point night in Thursday’s 8-0 win over the Hamilton Bulldogs in which he matched his regular-season high and was credited as the third star.

Partnering on the back end is New Jersey Devils first-round pick Ty Smith of the Spokane Chiefs who shined with seven points counting two goals and five assists in three games. Registering at least one point in all five of his most recent appearances, that stretch includes Friday’s 5-1 road win versus the Red Deer Rebels that saw Smith finish with one goal and three assists to help guide his team to victory.

In the blue paint, Minnesota Wild prospect Hunter Jones of the Peterborough Petes was nearly unbeatable across a pair of contests as he came away with a 2-0-0-0 showing while turning aside a combined 70 shots to close out the week with a 0.50 goals-against average and .986 save percentage. Facing the Hamilton Bulldogs on Thursday, Jones put up his best showing as he stopped 40 shots to notch his fourth shutout of the season and claim second-star honours in an 8-0 victory.

OHL THIS WEEK: MARCH 5 TO 8, 2020

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

OHL This Week

Toronto, Ont. – The 2019-20 regular season is winding down and the playoff races are heating up! Here’s all you need to know in the latest edition of the OHL This Week.

OHL THIS WEEK PODCAST WITH SUDBURY WOLVES VETERAN MACAULEY CARSON:
Sudbury Wolves captain Macauley Carson discusses his upcoming record-breaking night in his hometown of Barrie as he’ll play his 302nd career regular season game to climb atop the Wolves’ all-time list. He shares some of his memories and some details on the friendships he’s made along the way. Erie Otters captain Jack Duff also joins the show, sharing his new community initiative with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwest Pennsylvania.
LISTEN

OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY:
Kingston’s Shane Wright and London Knights teammates Alec Regula and Brett Brochu are OHL Top Performers for February 2020.
READ MORE

OHL ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY:
Hamilton’s Lawson Sherk, Barrie’s Ethan Cardwell, Erie’s Aidan Campbell and Flint’s Braeden Kressler are the OHL’s Academic Players of the Month for February.
READ MORE

SPITFIRES AND RANGERS SQUARE OFF SUNDAY ON SPORTSNET:
OHL action comes to Sportsnet on Sunday afternoon as the Kitchener Rangers pay a visit to the Windsor Spitfires at 2:05pm. See the game across the country on Sportsnet as two Western Conference teams bound for the OHL Playoffs meet in Windsor.

67’s, KNIGHTS, RANGERS AND SPIRIT IN KIA CHL TOP 10:
The Ottawa 67’s remain as the second-ranked team in this week’s Kia CHL Top 10 Rankings while the London Knights, Kitchener Rangers and Saginaw Spirit are also on the national radar.
FULL RANKINGS

KNIGHTS’ FOUDY NAMED OHL ‘ON THE RUN’ PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Liam Foudy of the London Knights is the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week with seven points over three victories.
READ MORE

FOUDY AND YETMAN NAMED TO VAUGHN CHL TEAM OF THE WEEK:
Forwards Liam Foudy of the London Knights and Chad Yetman of the Erie Otters have been named to the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week.
READ MORE

WAWANESA OHL PLAYS OF THE WEEK – MAR. 4, 2020:
Wawanesa OHL Plays of the Week is brought to you by some perfect passes and some outstanding goals. Catch Windsor’s Jean-Luc Foudy with some jump in his step, Kingston’s Shane Wright with an effortless move behind the skates, Owen Sound’s Adam McMaster splitting the defenders, Niagara’s Jackson Doherty capping off a toe drag with a wicked snipe and Niagara’s Ivan Lodnia getting real fancy on his way to the net.
WATCH

VAUGHN SAVES OF THE WEEK – MAR. 3, 2020:
We’ve got glove saves, pad saves and even a save off the mask in this week’s Vaughn Saves roundup! Tune in for the good stuff from Mississauga’s Kai Edmonds, Flint’s Peyton Grainer, Hamilton’s Zachary Roy, Sarnia’s Benjamin Gaudreau, Sudbury’s David Bowen, London’s Brett Brochu, Niagara’s Andrew MacLean, Windsor’s Xavier Medina, Oshawa’s Jordan Kooy, Peterborough’s Hunter Jones, Saginaw’s Tristan Lennox and Ottawa’s Cedrick Andree.
WATCH

ICEDOGS’ LODNIA REPRESENTS OHL IN CHL SHOWDOWN:
Niagara IceDogs forward Ivan Lodnia is the OHL’s representative in this week’s CHL Showdown featuring one great play from all three leagues.
WATCH & VOTE AT CHLSHOWDOWN.CA

OHL CUP POWERED BY UNDER ARMOUR MINOR MIDGET TOP-10 RANKINGS:
The top-ranked Toronto Jr. Canadiens and fourth-ranked Vaughan Kings are squaring off in the GTHL Championship Series while third-ranked Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs and fifth-ranked Hamilton Huskies are going head-to-head for ALLIANCE Minor Midget supremacy. In the OMHA, Top-10 teams in the Quinte Red Devils (2), Southern Tier Admirals (8) and Whitby Wildcats (9) are off to this weekend’s OMHA Championship in Belleville alongside the Niagara North Stars and the Oshawa Generals. A total of seven teams have now secured spots at the 2020 OHL Cup Powered by Under Armour.
FULL RANKINGS

VETERANS AND ROOKIES WORKING TOGETHER ON THE OHL OFFICIATING TEAM:
Veterans and rookies work together on the OHL Officiating Team as 21-year linesman Kevin Hastings skates alongside newcomer Matt Mannella in this behind the scenes look.
WATCH

A TALE OF TWO LONDON KNIGHTS DRAFT ELIGIBLE SOPHOMORES:
Luke Evangelista and Antonio Stranges are reaping the rewards of lessons learned during their rookie seasons, developing valuable skills and a long-term vision under the coaching of Dale Hunter.
WATCH

67’s LOCK UP SECOND STRAIGHT EAST DIVISION TITLE:
The Ottawa 67’s are East Division champions for a second straight year following Friday’s 4-1 win over the visiting Oshawa Generals. The 2020 East Division title secures the franchise’s 17th Leyden Trophy.
READ MORE

SPITFIRES HEADED TO THE POSTSEASON:
The Windsor Spitfires are headed to the 2020 OHL Playoffs for the fifth straight season. Their 10-2 win over the Kingston Frontenacs, led by multi-point performances from a pair of top NHL Draft prospects in Jean-Luc Foudy (2-2—4) and Will Cuylle (2-1—3), solidified their spot in the postseason with a 34-19-6-0 tally on the season and 74 points for fifth in the Western Conference, becoming the fifth Western team to enter the playoff tree.
READ MORE

COLTS BACK IN THE PLAYOFF PICTURE:
The Barrie Colts are officially back in the playoff picture. Despite a 6-1 loss to the Peterborough Petes on Sunday, the Niagara IceDogs’ loss to the North Bay Battalion vaulted the Colts into the playoff tree with their 27-26-4-2 record and 60 points at fifth in the Eastern Conference.
READ MORE

BULLDOGS PART WAYS WITH HEAD COACH VINCE LAISE:
The Hamilton Bulldogs announced Tuesday that Vince Laise has been relieved of his coaching duties effective immediately. President and general manager Steve Staios will oversee the coaching staff for the remainder of the season.
READ MORE

FIREBIRDS’ TUCKER SIGNS WITH BLUES:
Flint Firebirds defenceman Tyler Tucker has signed a three-year entry level NHL contract with the St. Louis Blues. The 20-year-old has 55 points (17-38–55) over 52 games between the Firebirds and Barrie Colts this season. He was St. Louis’ seventh round pick in the 2018 NHL Draft.
READ MORE

PETES’ ROBERTSON IS OHL’S FIRST TO 50 GOALS IN 2019-20:
Nick Robertson is the Canadian Hockey League’s first to 50 in 2019-20. The Toronto Maple Leafs prospect netted a hat-trick in Sunday’s 6-1 Peterborough Petes win over the visiting Barrie Colts to hit the 50-goal mark, doing so in just his 43rd game. He’s in good company, joining 13 other names to accomplish the feat in the storied history of the Peterborough Petes.
READ MORE

FRONTENACS’ ROOKIE WRIGHT SETS NEW FRANCHISE MARK FOR GOALS BY A ROOKIE:
Shane Wright made Kingston Frontenacs history on Saturday, recording his first OHL hat-trick to become the franchise’s all-time leading goalscorer among rookies.
READ MORE

ATTACK’S LYLE SETS FRANCHISE RECORD FOR CAREER GOALS BY A DEFENCEMAN:
Overage defenceman Brady Lyle scored 58 seconds into action on Wednesday in Flint, burying the Attack’s first shot of the game to become the franchise’s all-time leader in career goals by a defenceman.
READ MORE

NOLAN FORSTER COMMITS TO STORM:
The Guelph Storm have received a commitment from 2019 eighth round selection Nolan Forster. Forster enjoyed a great rookie season with the Cambridge Redhawks of the GOJHL, recording 14 goals and 44 assists for a total of 58 points in 47 regular season games.  Forster finished the season second in team scoring.
READ MORE

5 QUESTIONS WITH JACOB INGHAM:
Los Angeles Kings prospect Jacob Ingham of the Kitchener Rangers shares thoughts about a season where he has made an impact on and off the ice.
READ MORE

OHL PERFORMANCE DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE: SPOTS FILLING UP FAST!
The OHL Performance Development League launches April 26th and spots are filling up fast! The registration deadline is April 22nd. Don’t miss out, book your spot today!
DETAILS

BEYOND THE BOARDS:

Captain Jack’s Kids: Erie Otters Captain Jack Duff has teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Family Services of NW PA for an initiative he’s called Captain Jack’s Kids. Duff invites a new kid and their family to each Otters home game, meets with them after the game, gifts them a signed puck, and gives them an overall one-of-a-kind experience. Inspired by visits from the Kingston Frontenacs when he was a child in school, Duff wants to be an inspiration for younger kids, reach out to the less fortunate and help them “do whatever it is they want to do” in the future.
VISIT OTTERSHOCKEY.COM FOR MORE

Canadore Community Appreciation Night in North Bay: Fans are asked to join Canadore College and their guests for a fun-filled night at the Memorial Gardens on Thursday as the Troops host the Kingston Frontenacs. There’ll be plenty of prizes to win along with a special intermission promo fans won’t want to miss! Fans are asked to wear their Canadore ‘Red’ clothing to the game and bring their favourite noise maker.

Guelph’s annual Pick Up The Tab Night: The Storm are collecting beer tabs for their annual Pick Up The Tab night this Friday when they face off against the Oshawa Generals. They’re teaming up with Sleeman Breweries and the tabs are being collected for Elora Legion Branch 229 “Tabs for Wheelchairs” program. Money raised from the recycled tabs will go towards new wheelchairs, new walkers, and new motorized scooters.
MORE INFO AT GUELPHSTORM.COM

OHL ONSIDE touches down in Kitchener: With the Barrie Colts in town Friday, the Kitchener Rangers are hosting their fourth annual OHL ONSIDE event in support of ending gender-based violence with the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region. There will be an information table set up at the game as well as a ceremonial puck drop. OHL ONSIDE is an initiative between the Ontario Hockey League and the Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres (OCRCC) aimed at increasing the understanding and awareness of players’ responsibility to demonstrate respect for women and people of all genders.
READ MORE AT KITCHENERRANGERS.COM

Niagara IceDogs’ ‘Night School’ Game: The Icedogs’ “Night School” game will take place this Saturday against the visiting Erie Otters in partnership with the Education Foundation of Niagara and Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education. The team will be sporting the jerseys designed by elementary school student Owen McNeish-Fortune.
MORE DETAILS AT NIAGARAICEDOGS.NET

Oshawa Generals and Hockey Gives Blood host upcoming Blood Drive: On Tuesday, March 10th, the Oshawa Generals and their Hockey Gives Blood player ambassador Lleyton Moore will be host a Blood Drive. All those interested in taking part can visit OshawaGenerals.com to book an appointment.
SIGN UP AT OSHAWAGENERALS.COM

Peterborough Petes looking for Playoff Slogan: The Petes are on the hunt for a playoff slogan and they’ve reached out to the community for help. Entries are being accepted until March 15th and the winner will receive some great prizes.
CONTINUE READING AT GOPETESGO.COM

ALUMNI NOTES:

Hishon, Bieber’s close friendship blasts Attack into social media stratosphere: The CHL’s smallest market hit the world stage early Monday morning when Justin Bieber blasted out a photo wearing a personalized Owen Sound Attack jersey while posing with assistant coach Joey Hishon, a former Attack star who helped guide the team to an OHL Championship in 2010-11. The image was sent out to Bieber’s 129-million Instagram followers, becoming an instant viral sensation. Hishon and Bieber, the Stratford duo, have been hitting the ice in Los Angeles and New York recently as Bieber prepares for his eventual 10-breakaway challenge against former Attack goaltender and NHL all-star Jordan Binnington. The Owen Sound Sun-Times’ Greg Cowan has the story.
READ MORE AT OWENSOUNDSUNTIMES.COM

Studnicka a shorthanded force for Bruins: Niagara IceDogs graduate and long-time Oshawa Generals forward Jack Studnicka received high praise over at bostonbruins.com this week. The 21-year-old centreman has scored an AHL-leading seven shorthanded goals this season as part of a 46-point (22-24–46) rookie campaign. Studnicka was Boston’s second round pick in 2017 and played four seasons in the OHL from 2015-19.
READ MORE AT NHL.COM/BRUINS

Garlent named ECHL Player of the Month: Peterborough Petes graduate Hunter Garlent of the Florida Everblades has been named ECHL Player of the Month for February. The 25-year-old recorded seven goals, 12 assists and 19 points in 12 games, tacking on a plus-15 rating. Garlent is tied for seventh among ECHL rookies with 41 points (16-25–41) in 51 games this season. Following a five-year OHL career between Guelph and Peterborough from 2011-16, he played U SPORTS Men’s Hockey at St. Mary’s University from 2016-19.
READ MORE AT ECHL.COM

12 OHL alumni set to battle for Queen’s Cup: The University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and University of Guelph Gryphons are headed to the 109th Queen’s Cup Final with a total 12 former OHL skaters suiting up for the one game showdown.
READ MORE

CHL Leaders – Zack Shepley: There are no shortage of parallels between Zack Shepley’s current career and his former days in the Ontario Hockey League. Currently serving as a firefighter in the Windsor, Ont., area, Shepley vastly enjoys his new work environment, one that comes with a recollection of his time around his teammates and the friendships that came with it during his five seasons with the Plymouth Whalers and Brampton Battalion from 2003-08.
READ MORE

KEY MATCHUPS:

Erie Otters at Niagara IceDogs
Saturday, March 7

The Erie Otters (25-25-4-7) are looking to maintain that Western Conference eighth place seed and the Niagara IceDogs (18-36-5-1) are hoping to get the leg up on the Kingston Frontenacs for eighth in the East.

The Otters are led by third year skaters Maxim Golod (25-52—77) and Chad Yetman (41-31—72), and have top NHL Draft prospect Jamie Drysdale monitoring the blueline.

The IceDogs have struggled to find themselves in the win column as of late with only one win in their last 17 games, but they currently sit tied with the eighth place Kingston Frontenacs, meaning that playoff berth could be anyone’s.

Minnesota Wild prospect Ivan Lodnia sits atop the Niagara scoring race with 60 points to his name (26-34—60) and is followed up by fellow overager Oliver Castleman, posting a 57-point total (21-36—57).

The Otters hold a 4-0-0-1 tally over the course of the season and will wrap up their series with the ‘Dogs on Saturday night at the Meridian Centre.

Kingston Frontenacs at Soo Greyhounds
Saturday, March 7

Dwindling in eighth place and tied for 42 points on the year with Niagara, the Kingston Frontenacs (19-36-2-2) will head to Sault Ste. Marie Saturday hungry to hold down the playoff spot and widen that point cushion.

The next few wins are just as crucial for the ninth place Greyhounds (26-31-3-1), who trail the Erie Otters by five points over in the Western Conference.

Shane Wright continues to lead the squad with a franchise record-setting 66 points, whose numbers match Connor McDavid’s rookie total as a fellow exceptional status skater. The 16-year-old rookie notched his first OHL hat-trick last weekend to hit the 38 goal-marker, surpassing former Kingston Canadian Bernie Nicholls’ 36 rookie goals scored over a single season. Linemate Zayde Wisdom has kept up consistent numbers, boasting 58 points over his 59 appearances.

Zack Trott leads the pack in Sault Ste. Marie, boasting 61 points over 59 games in his third OHL season, and trailing five points behind him is sophomore skater Rory Kerins with his team-highest 29 goals.

Saturday will see the two squads square off for the second and final time this season. The ‘Hounds scored five in a row to defeat the Fronts 5-2 back in late January in their first meeting.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE:

Thursday, March 5th:
Saginaw at Mississauga – 11:00pm
Kingston at North Bay – 7:00pm
Hamilton at Peterborough – 7:05pm
Owen Sound at Windsor – 7:05pm
Sudbury at Barrie – 7:30pm

Friday, March 6th:
North Bay at Mississauga – 7:00pm
Soo at Sudbury – 7:05pm
Oshawa at Guelph – 7:30pm
Barrie at Kitchener – 7:30pm
Sarnia at London – 7:30pm

Saturday, March 7th:
Saginaw at Hamilton – 4:00pm
Windsor at Flint – 7:00pm
Erie at Niagara – 7:00pm
Mississauga at Peterborough – 7:05pm
Kingston at Soo – 7:07pm
Ottawa at Barrie – 7:30pm
London at Owen Sound – 7:30pm

Sunday, March 8th:
Saginaw at Erie – 2:00pm
Peterborough at Niagara – 2:00pm
Ottawa at North Bay – 2:00pm
Kingston at Sudbury – 2:05pm
Kitchener at Windsor – 2:05pm (Live on Sportsnet)
Guelph at Sarnia – 4:05pm
Oshawa at London – 6:00pm

Vaughn CHL Team of the Week

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 23rd edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from February 24 to March 1.

Headlining the forward ranks is Edmonton Oilers prospect Raphael Lavoie of the Chicoutimi Sagueneens who wrapped up the week with nine points counting four goals and five assists through four appearances. Currently riding a 13-game point streak, Lavoie’s top showing of the week came Tuesday against the Gatineau Olympiques as he posted one goal and a trio of assists to match a season high of four points en route to a 7-4 victory and second-star recognition.

Also up front is Erie Otters veteran centre Chad Yetman who impressed with three goals and five assists for eight points over three games. The stretch included Yetman’s most recent outing coming Sunday versus the London Knights in a 6-3 final that saw him factor in on each of his team’s goals in tallying twice and adding one assist to help him earn second-star honours.

Rounding out the forward ranks is Columbus Blue Jackets prospect and London Knights co-captain Liam Foudy who recorded two goals and five assists for seven points over three games. Picking up at least one point in 14 consecutive contests, that stretch included Sunday’s contest versus the Erie Otters that saw him finish with one goal and two assists to help his club to a 6-3 road win in which he was recognized as the game’s third star. For his efforts, Foudy was honoured as the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

On the blue line, New Jersey Devils first-round pick Ty Smith of the Spokane Chiefs shined with 10 points counting five goals and five assists over two games. Against the Seattle Thunderbirds on Friday, Smith set a franchise high-water mark in finishing with an astounding eight points counting three goals and five assists en route to a 9-2 victory and first-star honours. In recognition of his success, Smith was named the WHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

Also on the back end is fellow Devils prospect Xavier Bernard of the Sherbrooke Phoenix who came up with six points counting one goal and five assists over three appearances. Against the Val-d’Or Foreurs on Saturday, Bernard tied a franchise single game record with one goal and four assists for five points to help his team to a 9-4 road victory in which he was also recognized as the game’s first star. For his efforts, Bernard was named the Ultramar QMJHL Player of the Week.

Between the pipes, Oilers second-round draft pick and Moncton Wildcats netminder Olivier Rodrigue dazzled across two appearances in coming away with a pair of victories and a combined 55 saves for a .948 save percentage and a 1.50 goals-against average. Surrendering a lone regulation loss in his past 16 appearances, that stretch includes Sunday’s 3-1 road win over the Rimouski Oceanic in which Rodrigue turned aside 28 to pick up his 29th victory of 2019-20 and extend the Wildcats record win-streak to 15.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Top OHL Performers of the Month for regular season games played in February 2020, including Kingston Frontenacs forward Shane Wright and London Knights teammates Alec Regula and Brett Brochu.

OHL Player & Rookie of the Month – Shane Wright (Kingston Frontenacs):
First overall OHL Priority Selection choice and exceptional status forward Shane Wright of the Kingston Frontenacs has been recognized as both the OHL Player of the Month and Rookie of the Month for February. The 16-year-old led the League with 14 goals while adding 10 assists for 24 points over 13 contests as his Frontenacs got back into the playoff hunt with five victories to pull into a tie for eighth in the Eastern Conference. Wright lit the lamp in 10 of his 13 February outings, netting three multi-goal efforts along the way. He opened the month with two goals and an assist in a 5-3 road loss to the Barrie Colts on Feb. 1st before registering another multi-goal showing with a pair in a 4-3 win over the Peterborough Petes on Feb. 5th. Wright went on to string together three straight three-point performances on Feb. 9th, 12th and 14th, tallying a goal and two assists in each game. He stepped up with the overtime winner as the Frontenacs defeated the Oshawa Generals on Feb. 21st. Wright saved his biggest performance of the month for last, surpassing Bernie Nicholls for the Frontenacs’ all-time franchise rookie goal-scoring mark with his 39th of the season as part of his first career OHL hat-trick in a 6-1 road win over the Flint Firebirds. Wright received star of the game recognition five times over the course of the month.

A product of Burlington, Ont., Wright leads OHL rookies with 39 goals and 66 points over 55 games this season. His 66 points are equal to Connor McDavid‘s total over 63 games as an exceptional status rookie with the Erie Otters in 2012-13. The 2004-born talent captained Team Canada Black at the 2019 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, recording seven points (4-3–7) over five games. He was selected first overall by the Frontenacs last spring after being named GTHL Player of the Year with 150 points (66-84–150) over 72 games as a member of the OHL Cup champion Don Mills Flyers.

OHL Defenceman of the Month – Alec Regula (London Knights):
Chicago Blackhawks prospect Alec Regula of the London Knights is the OHL Defenceman of the Month for February, leading all blueliners with 11 goals while adding seven assists for 18 points over 11 contests with a plus/minus rating of plus-10. Regula recorded points in 10 of his 11 February outings, starting the month with a two-goal showing on Feb. 1st in Sarnia. He matched a season-high with three points including a goal and two helpers in a 6-3 win over the Kitchener Rangers on Feb. 14th, chipping in with a pair of assists a night later as London defeated Kingston 7-5. After recording a goal and an assist in a win over the Windsor Spitfires on Feb. 20th, Regula became the first Knights defenceman to score a hat-trick since March 2009 when he netted three on Feb. 21st against Guelph. Regula finished February on a high note, picking up a goal and an assist in a 4-2 win over the Soo Greyhounds on Feb. 28th.

A 19-year-old native of West Bloomfield, Mich., Regula leads OHL defenders with 26 goals while adding 31 assists for 57 points over 53 games this season. The 6-foot-4, 207Ib. third-year veteran sits owns a team co-leading plus-34 rating and his 26 goals are the most by a Knights rearguard since Dennis Wideman potted 27 during the 2001-02 season. Regula has accumulated 121 points (44-77–121) over 186 career regular season games with the Knights dating back to 2017 after he was selected in the fourth round (74th overall) of the 2016 OHL Priority Selection. He was a third round (67th overall) pick of the Detroit Red Wings in the 2018 NHL Draft before being dealt to the Chicago Blackhawks in an October 2019 move that saw OHL graduate Brendan Perlini go the other way. The Blackhawks signed Regula to a three-year entry level contract in November.

OHL Goaltender of the Month – Brett Brochu (London Knights):
For the second straight month, London Knights rookie Brett Brochu has been recognized with OHL Top Goaltender honours. Brochu led all netminders with a 2.36 goals-against average to go with a 7-1-0-0 record and .926 save percentage over eight games. He put together a season-high 43 saves on Feb. 17th in Ottawa as the Knights defeated the CHL’s top-ranked 67’s 4-2, with the rookie earning second star honours. Brochu built off that, stopping 36 of 38 on Feb. 20th in Windsor as the Knights defeated the Spitfires 4-2. He rounded out the month with a record-setting 29th win on Feb. 28th, making 26 saves against the Soo Greyhounds to pass Ryan MacDonald on the Knights’ all-time list for wins by a rookie goaltender.

A 17-year-old native of Tilbury, Ont., Brochu has won 19 of his last 20 outings for an overall record of 29-6-0-0 with the league’s third-best 2.50 goals-against average, a .918 save percentage and two shutouts over 39 games. His 29 wins are the most by an OHL 17-year-old rookie since Niagara’s Andrew Loverock won 31 during the 2006-07 campaign. The 5-foot-11, 156Ib. puckstopper was London’s sixth round pick in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection. He spent last season with the Dresden Kings Jr. C club, earning PJHL Stobbs Division Rookie of the Year honours.

2019-20 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
February – Shane Wright (Kingston Frontenacs)
January – Philip Tomasino (Oshawa Generals)
December – Cole Schwindt (Mississauga Steelheads)
November – Jan Jenik (Hamilton Bulldogs)
October – Arthur Kaliyev (Hamilton Bulldogs)

Defenceman of the Month:
February – Alec Regula (London Knights)
January – Noel Hoefenmayer (Ottawa 67’s)
December – Noel Hoefenmayer (Ottawa 67’s)
November – Connor Corcoran (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Noel Hoefenmayer (Ottawa 67’s)

Rookie of the Month:
February – Shane Wright (Kingston Frontenacs)
January – Brett Brochu (London Knights)
December – Mason McTavish (Peterborough Petes)
November – Shane Wright (Kingston Frontenacs)
October – Mason McTavish (Peterborough Petes)

Goaltender of the Month:
February – Brett Brochu (London Knights)
January – Brett Brochu (London Knights)
December – Jacob Ingham (Kitchener Rangers)
November – Nico Daws (Guelph Storm)
October – Hunter Jones (Peterborough Petes)

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

academic players for February

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Lawson Sherk of the Hamilton Bulldogs, Ethan Cardwell of the Barrie Colts, Aidan Campbell of the Erie Otters and Braeden Kressler of the Flint Firebirds have been named OHL Academic Players of the Month for February.

East Division: Hamilton’s Lawson Sherk is February’s East Division Academic Player of the Month. Sherk achieved a 93.3% average over three first semester courses at Ancaster High School that included university level Physics and Chemistry.

His teachers praise him for his good attendance and his perseverance and his second semester teachers have already provided positive feedback.

The Bulldogs rookie has put up four goals and 10 assists for 14 points over his first 58 games. He was drafted by Hamilton 40th overall in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection following a 50-point season (15-35—50) with the OMHA’s Halton Hurricanes.

Central Division: Ethan Cardwell has been recognized as February’s Central Division Academic Player of the Month. The Barrie Colts winger received marks of over 90% in three of his four university level courses and over 80% in his fourth. His courses included English, Calculus, Leadership and Elite Athlete, and he’ll graduate from high school upon completing his current university courses in English, Business Management, and World Issues.

Cardwell was commended for his involvement both on the ice and in the community. His dedication, maturity, and commitment to balancing academics with athleticism were also applauded.

The 17-year-old sits second in scoring among his Barrie teammates with 44 points (21-23—44) over 57 games in his sophomore OHL season. The Courtice, Ont. native was originally a second round pick of the Saginaw Spirit in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection.

Midwest Division: Aidan Campbell of the Erie Otters is February’s Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month. The 17-year-old goaltender has been working toward six online courses as well as a major senior project at Fairview Senior High/Seneca Valley Senior High.

“He consistently works at the highest academic level and maintains a positive attitude despite his rigorous schedule,” wrote advisor Leigh Kostis.

The native of Cranberry Township, Penn. has posted an .878 save percentage and 3.50 goals-against average over 25 appearances in his rookie season with the Otters. He was picked up in the 12th round of the 2018 OHL Priority Selection out of the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite U15 team and spent the 2018-19 season with the U16 elite squad where he posted eight shutouts and held a 0.69 goals-against average and .944 save percentage.

West Division: Braeden Kressler of the Flint Firebirds has been named the West Division’s Academic Player of the Month for February. He earned a 3.78 GPA in Physical Education, Modern Tech, Leadership, and Math at Grand Blanc High School, and has been praised for his work ethic both in the classroom and on the ice.

The rookie centreman has amassed seven goals and eight assists for 15 points through 41 games in his rookie season with the Firebirds. The Kitchener, Ont. native was drafted 28th overall by the ‘Birds in last year’s OHL Priority Selection after spending the 2018-19 season with the Mississauga Senators where he put up 30 points (18-12—30).

2019-20 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
February – Lawson Sherk (Hamilton Bulldogs)
January – Tye Austin (Peterborough Petes)
December – Cameron Tolnai (Ottawa 67’s)
November – Lleyton Moore (Oshawa Generals)
October – Shane Wright (Kingston Frontenacs)

Central Division:
February – Ethan Cardwell (Barrie Colts)
January – Ethan Del Mastro (Mississauga Steelheads)
December – Giordano Biondi (Sudbury Wolves)
November – Jonah De Simone (Niagara IceDogs)
October – Pacey Schlueting (North Bay Battalion)

Midwest Division:
February – Aidan Campbell (Erie Otters)
January – Logan LaSage (Owen Sound Attack)
December – Stuart Rolofs (London Knights)
November – Michael Vukojevic (Kitchener Rangers)
October – Zack Terry (Guelph Storm)

West Division:
February – Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
January – Will Cuylle (Windsor Spitfires)
December – Jacob Holmes (Soo Greyhounds)
November – Ryan Mast (Sarnia Sting)
October – Cole Perfetti (Saginaw Spirit)

Last season, the OHL Centrally Administered Scholarship Program facilitated scholarships for 340 OHL Alumni at 69 different academic institutions across North America with a total scholarship payment in excess of $3.2 million. Since the 2007-08 season, OHL Scholarship payments have totalled more than $25 million.

Click here for more information about ‘OHL Players First’ programs.

Vaughn CHL Team of the Week

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 22nd edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from February 17-23.

Among the top performers was Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Nathan Legare of the Baie-Comeau Drakkar who wrapped up the week with nine points counting six goals and three assists over a pair of appearances. Facing the Val-d’Or Foreurs on Sunday, captain Legare put up a season-high performance of five points including his second consecutive hat-trick plus two assists en route to 6-3 victory in which he was recognized as the game’s first star. For his efforts, Legare was honoured as the Ultramar QMJHL Player of the Week.

Also up front is overage right-wing Jeremy McKenna of the Moncton Wildcats whose impressive showing counted four goals and five assists for nine points over four contests extending the club’s win-streak to 12 and point-streak to 18. Currently riding a five-game point streak of his own, McKenna’s stretch includes Wednesday’s 4-3 overtime win versus the Rimouski Oceanic in which he received first-star recognition after matching a season high of four points counting two goals and two assists that included a helper on the game-winning goal.

Rounding out the forward ranks is Minnesota Wild prospect Damien Giroux of the Saginaw Spirit who notched five goals and two assists for seven points over three games helping the Spirit clinch a playoff berth. Against the North Bay Battalion on Sunday, the captain and fourth-year forward finished with a season high of four points, putting up two goals plus two assists in a 6-3 road win that saw him recognized as the game’s first star for the second consecutive game.

On the blue line, St. Louis Blues draft pick Tyler Tucker of the Flint Firebirds shined as he collected three goals and eight assists for 11 points over four games as the Firebirds also punched their postseason ticket. A late-season addition to the Firebirds, Tucker has impressed since joining his new club from the Barrie Colts by setting a franchise single-game record for points by a defenceman with two goals and five assists for seven points in a 12-7 victory over the Sarnia Sting last Monday. For his efforts, Tucker was honoured as the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

Also on the back end is Saskatoon Blades defenceman and 2020 NHL Draft hopeful Aidan De La Gorgendiere whose week counted six points including one goal and five assists over a pair of contests.  De La Gorgendiere’s best showing came against the Swift Current Broncos on Saturday as he finished with a season high of four points – all coming as helpers – to guide his squad to an 8-1 victory in which he was recognized as the game’s first star. For his efforts, De La Gorgendiere was honoured as the WHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

Between the pipes, Calgary Flames prospect Dustin Wolf of the Everett Silvertips put up a dominant showing as he came away with three victories over a trio of appearances in which he combined for a .952 save percentage and a 1.00 goals-against average. Wolf’s busiest night came against the rival Portland Winterhawks on Sunday as he turned aside 35 shots en route to a 6-2 road win and first-star honours. In all, Wolf closed out the week with his league best ninth shutout of the season while stopping 60 of 63 total shots, helping him earn recognition as the WHL Eli Wilson Goaltending Goaltender of the Week.

OHL THIS WEEK: FEBRUARY 20 TO 23, 2020

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

OHL This Week

Toronto, Ont. – The Flint Firebirds are red hot on a 13-game winning streak and we’ve got lots to cover in and outside of the rinks this week. Get primed for another weekend with the latest edition of OHL This Week.

OSHAWA GENERALS AND SOO GREYHOUNDS BID TO HOST 2021 MEMORIAL CUP PRESENTED BY KIA:
The Oshawa Generals and Soo Greyhounds will each have the opportunity to make formal bid presentations to host the 2021 Memorial Cup presented by Kia.
READ MORE

GENERALS AND BULLDOGS CLASH SATURDAY ON SPORTSNET:
East Division opponents the Oshawa Generals and host Hamilton Bulldogs hit the ice Saturday afternoon at 4:00pm on Sportsnet. The Generals currently sit third in the East Division with a 28-18-4-4 record while Hamilton hovers in the fourth place spot, carrying a season record of 23-25-6-1.

WOLVES GRADUATE SHANDOR ALPHONSO SHARES JOURNEY INTO NHL’S OFFICIATING RANKS:
Sudbury Wolves graduate Shandor Alphonso takes tremendous pride in being an official of colour in the National Hockey League. The 35-year-old shares his journey into the NHL’s officiating ranks.
WATCH

67’s, KNIGHTS AND FIREBIRDS IN KIA CHL TOP 10:
The Ottawa 67’s remain the top-ranked team in the CHL while the London Knights rise to eighth and the Flint Firebirds return for the second time this season.
FULL RANKINGS

SPIRIT’S PERFETTI NAMED OHL ‘ON THE RUN’ PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Draft eligible Saginaw Spirit forward Cole Perfetti is the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week with 10 points in three games including four goals and six assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-6.
READ MORE

OHL WEEKEND NOTEBOOK: FEBRUARY 19, 2020:
The OHL Weekend Notebook recaps the weekend that was with news, information and interesting facts from both on and off the ice. Here are 10 of the leading stories from this past weekend.
READ MORE

WAWANESA OHL PLAYS OF THE WEEK – FEB. 19, 2020:
Wawanesa OHL Plays of the Week is back with another mashup of magnificent moves! North Bay’s Simon Rose comes up big in overtime, Sault Ste. Marie’s Nick Malik keeps things going with a massive save off the left skate, Hamilton’s Jan Mysak skates through his opponents for another highlight reel marker, Kingston’s Christian Propp makes a desperation dive for the books and Oshawa’s Phil Tomasino creates opportunity with a nifty spin.
WATCH

VAUGHN SAVES OF THE WEEK – FEB. 18, 2020:
Double toe saves and a whole whack of highlight reel stops are featured in another exciting Vaughn Saves segment. Check out the moves from North Bay’s Joe Vrbetic, Hamilton’s Zachary Roy, Oshawa’s Zachary Paputsakis, Windsor’s Kari Piiroinen, Peterborough’s Tye Austin, Oshawa’s Jordan Kooy, Kingston’s Ryan Dugas, Barrie’s Arturs Silovs, Kingston’s Christian Propp, and Sault Ste. Marie’s Nick Malik.
WATCH

GOALTENDERS CAMPBELL, VRBETIC FEATURED IN OHL MILESTONE MOMENTS:
Rookie netminders Aidan Campbell of the Erie Otters and Joe Vrbetic of the North Bay Battalion each posted their first career OHL shutout last week. See all of those saves in OHL Milestone Moments.
WATCH

GENERALS’ TOMASINO REPRESENTS OHL IN CHL SHOWDOWN:
Oshawa Generals forward Philip Tomasino is the OHL’s representative in this week’s CHL Showdown featuring one great play from all three leagues.
WATCH & VOTE AT CHLSHOWDOWN.CA

OHL CUP POWERED BY UNDER ARMOUR WEEK 12 TOP-10 RANKINGS:
The Toronto Jr. Canadiens are the new number one team in the OHL Cup Powered by Under Armour Minor Midget Top-10, returning to where they began back in late November.
FULL RANKINGS

PETES ARE PLAYOFF BOUND:
A Niagara IceDogs loss on Sunday vaulted the Peterborough Petes into the 2020 OHL Playoffs. They’d solidify their standing with a 5-2 win over the Sudbury Wolves on Family Day.
READ MORE

SPITFIRES HONOUR THE MEMORY OF MICKEY RENAUD:
The Windsor Spitfires honoured late captain Mickey Renaud prior to puck drop on Tuesday. Parents Mark and Jane Renaud joined Spitfires billet families in a special Family Day Weekend celebration of the former Calgary Flames draft pick who tragically passed away on February 18, 2008.
WATCH

FORMER TEAMMATES PERFETTI AND O’ROURKE ENJOY COMPETITIVE FRIENDSHIP:
Saginaw Spirit forward Cole Perfetti and Soo Greyhounds defenceman Ryan O’Rourke were two-time OHL Cup teammates but now square off several times a year. They share all about their competitive friendship.
WATCH

DRESSING ROOM DJ’S OF THE OHL: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE ONES YOU DIDN’T EXPECT:
Who runs the tunes in the room? Rap or country? Who’s got it figured out, and who needs some work? Find out here!
WATCH

PETES’ THOMAS RECORDS 300TH CAREER POINT:
Los Angeles Kings prospect Akil Thomas of the Peterborough Petes recorded his 300th career point and 200th career assist on Saturday.
READ MORE

FIREBIRDS’ OTHMANN ENTERS CLUB RECORD BOOK FOR ROOKIE GOALS, POINTS:
One of several records set in Monday’s 12-7 win over the Sarnia Sting, Flint Firebirds forward Brennan Othmann set a new marks for both points and goals by a rookie in a single season. The second overall pick of the 2019 OHL Priority Selection had a goal and two assists on Monday to reach the 30-point mark, surpassing teammate Vladislav Kolyachonok‘s 29 points in a Firebirds uniform last season. His 14th goal put him ahead of Ty Dellandrea‘s mark set during the 2016-17 campaign.
READ MORE

FIVE QUESTIONS WITH SHANE WRIGHT:
Shane Wright of the Kingston Frontenacs leads all CHL rookies in scoring and is showing exactly why he was granted exceptional player status.
READ MORE

MITCHELL MARTIN COMMITS TO RANGERS:
The Kitchener Rangers have announced that left-winger Mitchell Martin has committed to an Ontario Hockey League standard player agreement with the club. The 17-year-old from Sudbury, Ont. was a fourth round pick in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection and is currently playing with the NOJHL’s Rayside-Balfour Canadians.
READ MORE

2020 OHL GOLD CUP HIGH PERFORMANCE OFFICIATING CAMP APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED:
Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 OHL Gold Cup High Performance Officiating Camp that runs May 6-10 at the Activa Sportsplex in Kitchener, ON.
DETAILS

BEYOND THE BOARDS:

CMHA Talk Today 50-50 Raffle: A reminder that the Talk Today 50-50 Raffle in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and Teachers Life will run until Feb. 29. A winner will be drawn on Mar. 2, and all proceeds will go toward support mental health awareness and the Talk Today program in partnership with CMHA and Teachers Life. The Talk Today games continue with North Bay hosting theirs tonight.

Kingston’s Salute to Military Families: Friday will see another classic division rivalry matchup between the Oshawa Generals and Kingston Frontenacs, with the Fronts decked out in their CAPDAT jerseys as a salute to Military Families.

Frontenacs raising money for Prostate Cancer Research: The Kingston Frontenacs players are seeking donations toward prostate cancer research. You can donate to the individual players’ campaigns HERE.

Crossover Week in Sudbury: The Sudbury Wolves and local basketball team Sudbury FIVE of the National Basketball League of Canada are switching jerseys for a cause. The FIVE sported jerseys with the Wolves’ logo during their Wednesday matchup, and this Friday when the Saginaw Spirit come to play, the Wolves will be doing the same: wearing Sudbury FIVE-themed jerseys. Jerseys from both of those games are up for auction and will benefit Jumpstart, where proceeds will go towards youth participation in minor sports.
FULL DETAILS AT SUDBURYWOLVES.COM

Mississauga Helps Fight the Cold: The Mississauga Steelheads are teaming up with A1 Air Conditioning and Heating for their first annual “Fight the Cold Coat Drive” on Friday as they take on the flint Firebirds. The Fight the Cold Coat Drive ensures that everyone in Mississauga has a coat to keep them warm throughout the winter and also aims to ensure that coats stay out of landfills. Fans are encouraged to bring a gently used or new coat for donation, and will receive a voucher for a complimentary ticket to the Steelheads game on Friday, Feb. 28.
LEARN MORE AT MISSISSAUGASTEELHEADS.COM

Making Local Issues #UNIGNORABLE: United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin have teamed up with the Storm for their #UNIGNORABLE game on Feb. 21. The purpose of the #UNIGNORABLE campaign is to make local issues like poverty, hunger and mental health just that: unignorable. Information about these local issues, as well as the work United Way and other community partners to in striving for solutions, will be highlighted during the game. Fans are encouraged to bring or purchase a pair of mittens that can then be donated to community members in need.
MORE INFORMATION AT GUELPHSTORM.COM

United Auto Workers/United Way Night in Flint: The Flint Firebirds are proud to be hosting their fifth annual United Auto Workers/United Way Night. Fans can use promo code UAW on ticketmaster.com to have $5 from their tickets donated to a local United Way branch, and, ahead of the game’s 7pm puck drop, Team United Auto Workers will face off against Team United Way in a pre-game matchup that fans who’ve purchased can also attend. There will also be a silent auction for both teams’ special jerseys, along with some other items.
READ MORE AT FLINTFIREBIRDS.COM

Pride Night in Oshawa: On Sunday, Feb. 23, the Oshawa Generals will be hosting their first ever Pride Night in partnership with You Can Play, PFLAG Canada Durham Region, and Pride Durham. There will be LGBTQ organizations will be onsite, rainbow Gens T-shirts will be for sold, and there will be a Pride Flag flown outside the Tribute Communities Centre.
LEARN MORE AT OSHAWAGENERALS.COM

Battalion host School Bus Safety Day on Sunday, play three home games in seven days:
The Troops host the Saginaw Spirit for I Stop, You Stop School Bus Safety Day. This season’s school bus safety day is in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the accident that killed 5 year old Adam Ranger when a transport truck failed to stop for his school bus’ flashing lights.
READ MORE AT BATTALIONHOCKEY.COM

ALUMNI NOTES:

Vilardi recalled by Kings: Kingston Frontenacs graduate and former Windsor Spitfires Memorial Cup champion Gabriel Vilardi has been summoned by the Los Angeles Kings. The 20-year-old forward, who has overcame injury obstacles dating back to his final OHL season in 2017-18, put up 25 points (9-16–25) over 32 games with the AHL’s Ontario Reign prior to the call-up. Vilardi was Los Angeles’ first round (11th overall) pick in the 2017 NHL Draft. The former second overall OHL Priority Selection choice recorded 157 points (68-89–157) over 143 career regular season contests between Kingston and Windsor from 2015-18. He’s expected to make his NHL debut on Thursday.

Toffoli named NHL’s third star of the week, dealt to Canucks: Ottawa 67’s graduate and back-to-back 50-goal OHL scorer Tyler Toffoli had an eventful week, becoming the first player in NHL history to notch a hat-trick in an outdoor game before being named the league’s third star of the week. Toffoli was then dealt from the Los Angeles Kings to the Vancouver Canucks, making his debut with his new team on Wednesday. Originally a second round pick by LA in the 2010 NHL Draft, Toffoli spent parts of eight seasons with the Kings, registering 34 points (18-16–34) over 58 games prior to the trade this season. A 27-year-old product of Scarborough, Ont., Toffoli was a career 333-point scorer over four seasons in Ottawa from 2008-12, recording 163 goals and 170 assists over 252 career regular season contests.

DeMelo joins Jets: Mississauga Steelheads graduate Dylan DeMelo joined the Winnipeg Jets in a trade from the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday. The 26-year-old from London, Ont. had posted 10 assists over 49 games with the Sens this season and joins his third NHL club after breaking in with the San Jose Sharks who selected him in the sixth round of the 2011 NHL Draft. The 6-foot defenceman played four OHL seasons in Mississauga, recording 125 points (25-100–125) over 218 career regular season outings.

OHL grads Archibald, Bourque swap AHL clubs: A pair of OHL graduates in Niagara IceDogs alumnus Darren Archibald and Owen Sound Attack blue line grad Trent Bourque were involved in a one-for-one swap on Wednesday. Archibald was dealt from the Toronto Marlies to the Belleville Senators in exchange for Bourque. A 30-year-old native of Newmarket, Ont., Archibald played four OHL seasons between Barrie and Niagara from 2008-11. He recorded 12 points (5-7–12) in 34 games with the Marlies this season. Bourque, 21, played five OHL seasons between Sudbury and Owen Sound from 2014-19 and was a sixth round pick of the St. Louis Blues in 2017. Bourque has spent most of the season with the ECHL’s Brampton Beast, recording 20 points (3-17–20) over 42 games while appearing in five games with the Belleville Senators.

Marchment dealt to Panthers: Mississauga Steelheads graduate Mason Marchment was dealt to the Florida Panthers on Wednesday. The Toronto Maple Leafs received forward Denis Malgin in exchange. Marchment, 24, is in his fourth pro season in 2019-20 and has 13 goals and five assists for 18 points in 24 games with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies this year. The winger won a Calder Cup title with the Marlies in 2018. He played two OHL seasons between Erie, Hamilton and Mississauga, recording 77 points (28-49–77) over 115 career regular season contests.

Williams named ECHL Goaltender of the Week: Erie Otters graduate Devin Williams of the Tulsa Oilers has been named the ECHL Goaltender of the Week. The 24-year-old went 3-0-0 with a 2.01 goals-against average and a save percentage of .935 in three appearances last week. A native of Saginaw, Michigan, Williams is 15-11-1 in 28 appearances with the Oilers this season with a 2.63 goals-against average and a save percentage of .909. Williams played parts of five seasons in Erie from 2011-16, winning a franchise record 106 career contests while posting a career goals-against average of 3.03 and a save percentage of .900.

Rangers grad Maaskant earns AUS Community Service Award: Kitchener Rangers graduate Liam Maaskant has earned The AUS’ Godfrey Award and been nominated for the prestigious Dr. Randy Gregg Award. The Acadia Axemen defenceman claims the award given annually to the player who best represents the spirit of intercollegiate hockey by his leadership both on and off the ice by his conduct throughout the season. A fifth-year engineering student from Clinton, Ont., Maaskant has served as team captain for two consecutive seasons. He played in 28 games this season, anchoring the Acadia defence and scoring 15 points (4-11–15). The 25-year-old played four OHL seasons between Erie, Barrie and Kitchener from 2011-15.

KEY MATCHUPS:

Windsor Spitfires at Barrie Colts
Saturday, February 22nd

Both the Windsor Spitfires (33-16-5-0) and Barrie Colts (25-23-3-2) have put on respectable performances as of late, and since they only face off twice a year, we’re anticipating a big game on Saturday.

The Spits skated away from last weekend’s three-game roadie with all six points in the bank before falling at home to the Sarnia Sting. It’s worth mentioning they were able to edge the top seeded Ottawa 67’s in a 3-2 decision thanks to Will Cuylle’s shootout winner, handing the Barber Poles their first loss at home since early November as well as their season’s only loss past regulation.

The Colts’ recent accolades include surpassing the Mississauga Steelheads for second in the Central Division. They’re now seated just four points behind the leading Sudbury Wolves. The squad took home six out of a possible eight points over last week’s four-game stint, and have a 7-2-1-0 tally to their names over their last 10 matchups. NHL Draft prospect Tyson Foerster continues to lead the charge, landing his 70th point with a respectable 30 goals and 40 assists on the season. Evan Vierling, a deadline addition from the Flint Firebirds, will suit up fresh off his first career hat-trick that has helped vault him to 10 goals and 22 points in the 18 games he’s played with the Colts.

Looking toward Windsor, Nashville Predators pick Egor Afanasyev and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Tyler Angle have both put up 12 points each in their last six games.

Saturday’s visit will be the Spits’ one and only trip to Barrie. It comes at the forefront of back-to-back road games that will see them land in Oshawa the following evening. Windsor claimed their first tangle with the Colts in a 3-2 shootout.

Owen Sound Attack at Erie Otters
Saturday, February 22nd / Sunday, February 23rd

We’re no stranger to seeing the Owen Sound Attack (26-21-4-3) and Erie Otters (23-20-4-7) square off in a classic Midwest matchup, but as the Western Conference playoff cushion continues to tighten with both squads vying for that coveted eighth place spot, we’re sure to keep our eyes on these back-to-back contests.

The Attack are currently holding on to eighth place, but the Otters currently sit only two points behind. Both have played an even 54 games up to this point, keeping the race as tight as can be.

The Attack are led by top scorers Sergey Popov (16-46—62) and league veteran Brady Lyle (18-39—57). Netminder Mack Guzda posts a 21-17-4-2 with a 3.05 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage.

Maxim Golod leads the charge in Erie, boasting 67 points (21-46—67), followed by teammate Chad Yetman’s 33 goals and 58 points.

Owen Sound will skate in with the 3-1-0-0 season series advantage over the host Erie Otters. Following Saturday’s tilt, both clubs will be right back at it the following afternoon.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE:

Thursday February 20th:
Flint at Niagara – 7:00pm
Ottawa at North Bay – 7:00pm
Hamilton at Peterborough – 7:05pm
London at Windsor – 7:05pm
Saginaw at Barrie – 7:30pm

Friday February 21st:
Oshawa at Kingston – 7:00pm
Flint at Mississauga – 7:00pm
Saginaw at Sudbury – 7:05pm
Ottawa at Soo – 7:07pm
London at Guelph – 7:30pm
Erie at Kitchener – 7:30pm

Saturday February 22nd:
Oshawa at Hamilton – 4:00pm (Live on Sportsnet)
Kitchener at Flint – 7:00pm
Windsor at Barrie – 7:30pm
Erie at Owen Sound – 7:30pm

Sunday February 23rd:
Niagara at Guelph – 2:00pm
Barrie at Mississauga – 2:00pm
Saginaw at North Bay – 2:00pm
Erie at Owen Sound – 2:00pm
Ottawa at Sudbury – 2:05pm
Sarnia at Soo – 2:07pm
Windsor at Oshawa – 6:05pm

Vaughn CHL Team of the Week

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 21st edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from Feb. 10-16.

Headlining the group is Rimouski Oceanic captain and 2020 NHL Draft favourite Alexis Lafreniere who amassed 10 points counting two goals and eight assists across a pair of appearances. Against the Quebec Remparts on Sunday, Lafreniere pushed his point streak to five games as he put up a dominant, career-best performance of seven points including one goal and six assists en route to an 11-2 victory and first-star honours. For his efforts, Lafreniere was recognized as the Ultramar QMJHL Player of the Week.

Also up front is fellow 2020 NHL Draft hopeful Cole Perfetti of the Saginaw Spirit who wrapped up the week with 10 points counting four goals and six assists over a trio of contests. Registering at least one point in 10 of his past 11 appearances, Perfetti matched a season high of five points – all coming as helpers – in Wednesday’s 7-5 road win over the Soo Greyhounds, helping him earn recognition as the game’s first star in addition to OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week honours.

Rounding out the forward ranks is another top NHL Draft prospect in Portland Winterhawks centre Seth Jarvis whose week counted three goals and six assists for nine points over three games. A projected early selection come June, Jarvis put his offensive skills on display in Sunday’s 11-2 win over the Moose Jaw Warriors in which he finished with one goal and four assists for five points to match a season high and wrap up the night with second-star recognition. The successful showing also helped Jarvis garner WHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week honours.

On the blue line, Spirit veteran rearguard D.J. Busdeker continues to build on an incredible season as he tallied six points counting two goals and four assists through three appearances. Facing the Soo Greyhounds on Wednesday, Busdeker put up a pair of tallies plus an assist to match a season high of three points en route to a 7-5 victory.

Also on the back end is San Jose Sharks first-round pick Ryan Merkley of the London Knights who earns a spot on the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the fourth time this season after collecting six assists through three contests. Riding a nine-game point streak, the stretch saw Merkley register a season high of four points in Friday’s 6-3 win over the rival Kitchener Rangers in which he took home first-star honours.

Between the pipes, top-ranked North American netminder Nico Daws of the Guelph Storm continued his dominant play in coming away with a pair of victories in which he combined for 77 saves to finish with a 0.50 goals-against average and .987 save percentage. Versus the Owen Sound Attack on Friday, Daws turned aside 40 shots to help guide his club to a 2-0 win that saw him record his fifth shutout of the season.

 

Vaughn CHL Team of the Week

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 20th edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from Feb. 3-9.

Leading the way is the WHL’s top point producer in Minnesota Wild prospect Adam Beckman of the Spokane Chiefs who continues to build on a spectacular season following a week in which he tallied four goals and five assists for nine points across a trio of contests helping the Chiefs extend their winning-streak to five. Registering at least one point in 24 of his last 25 appearances, that stretch includes Tuesday’s 7-6 overtime thriller versus the Portland Winterhawks in which Beckman finished with two goals and two assists to earn third-star recognition.

Also up front is Vancouver Giants right-wing Tyler Preziuso who wrapped up the week with eight points counting five goals and three assists in the most recent three wins during the club’s six-game streak. Added from the Medicine Hat Tigers in early December, Preziuso is producing just shy of a point-per-game pace since joining his new club, with recent performances including Sunday’s 7-3 win over the Kamloops Blazers where he recorded two goals and two assists to finish with a season high of four points in addition to first-star honours.

Rounding out the forward ranks is Flint Firebirds left-wing and 2020 NHL Draft hopeful Evgeniy Oksentyuk whose week counted two goals and six assists for eight points over three games as the Firebirds record win-streak reaches 10. Against the Oshawa Generals on Sunday, Oksentyuk matched a season high of four points as he came away with two goals and two assists to help guide his squad to a 5-3 road victory that saw him recognized as the game’s third star. For his efforts, Oksentyuk was also honoured as the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

On the blue line, Florida Panthers prospect Johnny Ludvig of the WHL leading Portland Winterhawks impressed with nine points counting two goals and seven assists over three contests. Facing the Spokane Chiefs on Tuesday, Ludvig was among the top performers as he finished with one goal and a trio of assists for a season high of four points in a 7-6 overtime decision that saw him earn second-star honours and the club clinch a post-season berth despite the loss. In all, Ludvig’s successful showing also saw him recognized as the WHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week.

Partnering on the back end is Everett Silvertips veteran rearguard Jake Christiansen who finished with five goals and three assists for eight points over a trio of appearances. Against the Seattle Thunderbirds on Saturday, Christiansen shined with a season high of four points including two goals and two assists that counted a helper on the eventual game-winning goal in the 5-2 road victory that kept the Tips hot with eight wins in their last 10 games.

Between the pipes, Red Deer Rebels netminder Ethan Anders impressed over two appearances as he came away with a 1-1-0-0 showing coupled with a .974 save percentage and 1.00 goals-against average. In all, Anders wrapped up the week with a combined 76 saves, a stretch that included Saturday’s 3-0 win over the Calgary Hitmen in which he turned aside 41 shots to record his first shutout of the season. For his efforts, Anders was recognized as the WHL Eli Wilson Goaltending Goaltender of the Week.