Kitchener, ON – The London Knights are Western Conference champions for a third straight year, defeating the Kitchener Rangers 4-2 in Game 4 of the Western Conference Championship Series on Wednesday.
Kitchener’s Luke Ellinas opened the scoring before London responded with four straight markers, completing their third straight sweep of the 2025 OHL Playoffs after previous four-game finishes against Owen Sound and Erie.
“The players are really playing well defensively and creating a lot offensively,” said Knights head coach Dale Hunter. “We played four pretty complete hockey games and we’re hard to beat when we do that.
“We played good defence,” he continued. “It’s no fun playing defence, you want to score, but it’s a credit to these guys – they buy into the team game right here and we’ve been through it before.”
Noah Read, Sam Dickinson, Kasper Halttunen and Jesse Nurmi provided London goals in front of a 25-save performance from goaltender Austin Elliott. The Knights join the 2022 Hamilton Bulldogs and 2019 Ottawa 67’s as the third team in OHL history to enter the OHL Championship Series with a perfect 12-0 record.
“Defence wins championships,” said Dickinson post-game. “It’s buying in to the systems that we play, trusting our forwards. It’s all about everyone buying in.”
The Knights become the first team in OHL history to win three consecutive Wayne Gretzky Trophies, an award first introduced with the advent of the league’s conference system in 1998-99. They join the Soo Greyhounds in the history books as the first team since 1993 to advance to three consecutive OHL Championship Series.
The Kitchener Rangers saw their season come to an end on the heels of their fourth 100-point season in franchise history. Overage netminder Jackson Parsons, who was awarded the Jim Rutherford Trophy as OHL Goaltender of the Year earlier in the week, made 32 saves in his final contest.
“In one way it sucks, but in one way it’s the best ending possible,” said Parsons. “To be able to finish at home and be able to say thank you to the fans one last time. They’ve been so good to me and I’m so proud to be a Ranger.”
The Knights, who claim the Wayne Gretzky Trophy for the ninth time in franchise history, advance to face the winner of an Eastern Conference Final series between the Oshawa Generals and Barrie Colts, a series Oshawa leads 3-0 heading into Game 4 on Thursday night at home.
Knights overage players Jacob Julien, Landon Sim and Austin Elliott were presented with the Wayne Gretzky Trophy by OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford following a game played before a sold out crowd of 7,496 at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.
Hockey fans were treated to an unforgettable night on April 29, 2025, as the Oshawa Generals edged out the Barrie Colts in a 7-6 double-overtime thriller at Tribute Communities Centre. The victory gave Oshawa a commanding 3-0 lead in the OHL Eastern Conference Final Series, putting them one step closer to the championship.
A Game for the Ages
From the opening puck drop, it was clear this matchup would be a battle. The Generals and Colts traded goals throughout regulation, with Riley Patterson leading the charge for Barrie with two goals. The Colts held a 6-5 lead with just over a minute left in the third period, but Oshawa refused to back down.
With the clock winding down, Colby Barlow—a Winnipeg Jets prospect—stepped up in a big way, scoring his second goal of the night to force overtime. Barlow also contributed an assist, proving to be a key player in Oshawa’s offensive attack.
Double-Overtime Heroics
After a tense first overtime period, the Generals finally broke through in the second OT. Luke Torrance played the role of hero, netting the game-winning goal at 8:44 of the second overtime period to send the Oshawa crowd into a frenzy. His clutch performance cemented the Generals’ victory and put them on the brink of advancing to the OHL Finals.
Key Contributors
Oshawa’s offensive firepower was on full display, with Brooks Rogowski, Beckett Sennecke, Noah Powell, and Owen Griffin all finding the back of the net. Luca Marrelli and Sennecke each tallied two assists, showcasing their playmaking abilities.
For Barrie, aside from Patterson’s two-goal effort, Anthony Romani, Cole Beaudoin, Owen Van Steensel, and Kashawn Aitcheson each chipped in with a goal. Brad Gardiner and Romani added two assists apiece, keeping the Colts competitive throughout the game.
Looking Ahead
With the series now 3-0 in favor of Oshawa, the Generals have a golden opportunity to close things out in Game 4 on Thursday. The Colts, however, will be desperate to keep their championship hopes alive and avoid elimination.
If this game was any indication, fans can expect another high-intensity showdown as these two teams continue their battle for OHL supremacy.
What do you think—can Oshawa finish the job in Game 4, or will Barrie fight back?
The London Knights continued their dominant playoff run with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Kitchener Rangers in Game 3 of the OHL Western Conference Final on Monday, April 28, 2025. The win, which took place at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, gave the Knights a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series and set a new franchise record for most consecutive playoff victories with 11.
First Period: A Fast-Paced Start
The Knights wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Landon Sim opening the scoring at the 7:33 mark of the first period. Sim set up in front of the Rangers’ net and redirected a Sam Dickinson slap pass behind Kitchener goaltender Jackson Parsons to give London a 1-0 lead. The Rangers responded quickly, as Luke Ellinas found the back of the net at 9:39, tying the game at 1-1. However, London regained the lead on a power play when Jacob Julien backhanded a puck through Parsons’ legs at 16:20, marking his third goal in two games and fourth of the postseason.
Second Period: Knights Take Control
The Rangers managed to tie the game once again before the first period ended, with Cameron Arquette wristing a shot past Knights goaltender Austin Elliott on the power play. The game remained deadlocked until the midway point of the second period, when Dickinson and Sim connected for the second time in the game. Sim deflected a Dickinson shot from the left point into the Kitchener goal at 10:47, giving London a 3-2 lead heading into the final period.
Third Period: Defensive Battle
The third period was a tense, defensive showdown, with both teams battling hard to gain an edge. The Rangers came close to tying the game when Jack Pridham was sent in alone and slid a puck through Elliott’s legs, but it stalled just before crossing the goal line. London successfully killed off a double-minor penalty to start the period and held strong defensively to secure the win.
Stars of the Game
Landon Sim: With two goals, Sim was the offensive catalyst for the Knights, playing a crucial role in securing the victory.
Sam Dickinson: Dickinson’s two assists and strong defensive presence earned him recognition as one of the game’s top performers.
Jacob Julien: Julien’s power-play goal proved to be a key moment in the game, helping London maintain control.
Goaltending Matchup
London’s Austin Elliott continued his stellar postseason performance, stopping 21 of 23 shots and making several key saves to preserve the Knights’ lead. On the other side, Jackson Parsons faced a barrage of 37 shots, making 34 saves. While Parsons showed resilience, the Knights’ relentless offensive pressure proved too much to handle.
Special Teams and Key Stats
London outshot Kitchener 37-23, highlighting their offensive dominance. The Knights went 1-for-5 on the power play, while the Rangers converted 1-of-4 opportunities.
Looking Ahead
With the series shifting back to Kitchener for Game 4 on Wednesday, April 30, the Rangers face a must-win situation to keep their championship hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Knights are just one victory away from advancing to the OHL Championship Series, where they will look to defend their title.
The London Knights’ victory on April 28 was a testament to their depth, skill, and determination. As the series progresses, fans can expect more thrilling action between these two storied franchises.
The London Knights continued their dominant playoff run with a resounding 6-2 victory over the Kitchener Rangers in Game 2 of the OHL Western Conference Final on April 27, 2025. The win, which took place at Canada Life Place in London, Ontario, gave the Knights a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Here’s a breakdown of the game, including the key players, goal scorers, and the goaltending duel that shaped the match.
First Period: Knights Set the Tone
The Knights wasted no time asserting their dominance, jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the first period. Jacob Julien, who has been a standout throughout the playoffs, opened the scoring with a well-placed shot that beat Kitchener’s goaltender Jackson Parsons. Julien’s goal was followed by a tally from Jesse Nurmi, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by the Rangers to double the lead. The Knights’ aggressive forechecking and quick puck movement left the Rangers scrambling to keep up.
Second Period: Rangers Fight Back, Knights Respond
The second period saw the Rangers show some life, with Trent Swick and Luca Romano finding the back of the net to briefly tie the game at 2-2. Swick’s goal came off a rebound, while Romano’s was a result of a well-executed power play. However, the Knights quickly regained control. Cam Allen scored to restore the lead, and Oliver Bonk added another to make it 4-2 heading into the third period. Bonk’s goal, a laser from the blue line, proved to be the game-winner.
Third Period: Knights Seal the Deal
The Knights put the game out of reach in the final period, with Blake Montgomery and Julien each scoring to bring the final tally to 6-2. Julien’s second goal of the night capped off a four-point performance (two goals, two assists), earning him the first star of the game. Montgomery’s goal showcased his speed and skill, as he weaved through the Rangers’ defense before firing a shot past Parsons.
Stars of the Game
Jacob Julien: With two goals and two assists, Julien was the undisputed star of the game. His ability to create scoring opportunities and finish plays was instrumental in the Knights’ victory.
Oliver Bonk: Bonk’s game-winning goal and solid defensive play earned him the second star. His presence on the blue line was a key factor in shutting down the Rangers’ offense.
Jared Woolley and Henry Brzustewicz: Both players contributed two assists, showcasing their playmaking abilities and vision on the ice.
Goaltending Matchup
The goaltending battle was another storyline in this game. London’s Austin Elliott continued his stellar postseason performance, stopping 23 of 25 shots. Elliott’s calm and composed play between the pipes has been a cornerstone of the Knights’ playoff success. On the other side, Jackson Parsons faced a barrage of 41 shots, making 35 saves. While Parsons showed flashes of brilliance, the Knights’ relentless offensive pressure proved too much to handle.
Special Teams and Key Stats
Both teams went 1-for-4 on the power play, but the Knights’ ability to generate scoring chances at even strength was the difference-maker. London outshot Kitchener 41-25, highlighting their offensive dominance. The Knights also won the majority of faceoffs, allowing them to control possession and dictate the pace of the game.
Looking Ahead
With the series shifting to Kitchener for Game 3, the Rangers will need to regroup and find a way to counter the Knights’ high-powered offense. For London, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum and continuing their unbeaten run in the playoffs. The Knights are now just two wins away from advancing to the OHL Championship Series, where they will look to defend their title.
OSHAWA GENERALS 7 – BARRIE COLTS 1
The Oshawa Generals showcased their dominance in Game 2 of the OHL Eastern Conference Final on Sunday, April 27, 2025, with a resounding 7-1 victory over the Barrie Colts. This commanding win, held at the Colts’ home arena, gave the Generals a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series and highlighted their offensive prowess, defensive discipline, and stellar goaltending. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the game, including goal scorers, standout players, and the goaltending duel.
First Period: Generals Set the Tone
The Generals wasted no time asserting their dominance, jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the opening period. Beckett Sennecke opened the scoring with a precise wrist shot that beat Barrie’s goaltender, Sam Hillebrandt. Sennecke’s goal was followed by a power-play marker from Andrew Gibson, who capitalized on a solo effort. The Generals’ aggressive forechecking and quick puck movement left the Colts struggling to find their footing.
Second Period: Generals Extend Their Lead
The second period saw the Generals continue their offensive onslaught, adding three more goals to their tally. Sennecke, a consistent offensive threat throughout the playoffs, scored twice in the period. His first goal came off a perfectly placed one-timer, while his second came on a breakaway. Colby Barlow also found the back of the net with a booming one-timer of his own.
Third Period: Colts Find a Consolation Goal
The Generals added two more goals in the third, courtesy of Luca Marelli and Gibson adding his second of the game. The Colts managed to break through in the third period, with Owen Van Steensel scoring their lone goal on a power play. The final score of 7-1 reflected the Generals’ dominance in all facets of the game.
Stars of the Game
Beckett Sennecke: With three goals and one assist, earning him the first star.
Luca Marelli: With a goal and three assists was second star.
Colby Barlow: Also with a goal and three assists was third star.
Goaltending Matchup
The goaltending battle was another significant aspect of the game. Oshawa’s Jacob Oster was outstanding, stopping 31 of 32 shots and making several key saves to preserve the Generals’ lead. Oster’s calm and composed play has been a cornerstone of Oshawa’s playoff run. On the other side, Hillebrandt faced a barrage of 30 shots through two periods, making 25 saves. Ben Hrebik took over in the third and stopped 9 of 11 shots he faced.
Special Teams and Key Stats
The Generals’ power play was a difference-maker, converting on four of their seven opportunities. Their penalty kill was equally impressive, limiting the Colts to just one goal on three power-play chances.
With the series shifting to Oshawa for Game 3, the Generals will look to maintain their momentum and move closer to securing a spot in the OHL Championship Series. For the Colts, it’s a must-win situation as they try to regroup and find a way to counter the Generals’ high-powered offense.
MEDICINE HAT, AB — By tallying five assists during Game 2 of the WHL’s Eastern Conference Championship on Saturday night, Medicine Hat Tigers forwardGavin McKenna has registered a point in 51 consecutive games dating back to November 6, 2024, making it the Canadian Hockey League’s (CHL) longest point streak of the 21st century (postseason and Memorial Cup included).
McKenna ultimately passed Québec Remparts (QMJHL) graduate Alexander Radulov, who went 50 straight games with a point from October 26 to March 15 during the 2005-06 season (see the CHL’s list of Top-10 point streaks since 2000 below).
The 17-year-old from Whitehorse, Yukon, extended his point streak to 51 games as the Medicine Hat Tigers defeated the Lethbridge Hurricanes 7-2 in Game 2 of the WHL’s Eastern Conference Championship. The five assists tallied by McKenna on Saturday night match the most he’s ever recorded in a single game in the WHL, whether in the regular season or postseason. The Tigers now lead the series 2-0 after winning the first game 5-2 on Friday night at Co-op Place in Medicine Hat. This series and the WHL’s Western Conference Championship can be seen live in their entirety and on-demand for free on Victory+.
Since November 6, McKenna has totaled 39 goals and 90 assists for 129 points in 51 contests, giving him a CHL-best 2.53 points-per-game average over that stretch. Comparatively, over his 50-game point streak in 2005-06, Remparts alumnus Alexander Radulov averaged 2.40 points per game by amassing 45 goals and 75 assists for 120 points.
McKenna initially strung together 40 straight games to cap off the 2024-25 regular season, before eventually stretching it to 51 games during the 2025 WHL Playoffs presented by Nutrien. Over his 51-game point streak, the Medicine Hat Tigers forward has collected 41 multi-point outings and played an important role in the Tigers’ strong second half in 2024-25.
With 36 victories in 42 contests (36-4-1-1) since the beginning of January, including 10 wins in 11 playoff games, Medicine Hat is aiming to earn its first WHL Championship title and Memorial Cup appearance since 2007. Following Game 2 of the WHL’s Eastern Conference Championship on Saturday night, through 11 postseason games in 2025, McKenna ranks third among scorers in the WHL and CHL this postseason with 29 points (7G-22A).
In addition to his current point streak and the success of his club, the 2024-25 campaign has been a memorable one for McKenna. The reigning WHL and CHL Rookie of the Year finished third in the CHL in scoring with 129 points (41G-88A), trailing only Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa (134 points) and Spokane Chiefs forward Andrew Cristall (132 points). Moreover, McKenna’s 88 assists were the most of any skater in both the WHL and CHL in 2024-25.
Earlier this season, at the end of January, McKenna reached a major milestone against the Portland Winterhawks by collecting his 200th career point in what was his 118th career regular-season game. The latter made him the third-fastest skater in the WHL to hit the mark since 1996, trailing only reigning NHL Rookie of the Year and Regina Pats alumnus Connor Bedard (107 games) and Calgary Hitmen alum Pavel Brendl (96 games). Additionally, at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa, the Tigers forward made history by becoming the eighth youngest player to ever suit up for Team Canada at a World Juniors.
Taken first overall in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, McKenna has previously captured gold for Team Canada at both the 2024 IIHF World U18 Championship and the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Following the 2023-24 season, McKenna was named a member of both the CHL’s Third All-Star and All-Rookie Teams after he registered 97 points in 61 games as a 16-year-old.
LONGEST CHL POINT STREAKS IN A SINGLE SEASON SINCE 2000 (INCLUDES POSTSEASON & MEMORIAL CUP) (as of April 26, 2025)
COMPARISON BETWEEN GAVIN MCKENNA & ALEXANDER RADULOV’S POINT STREAKS
Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) 39G-90A-129 PTS over 51-game point streak Averaging 2.53 points per game 41 multi-point outings Eight multi-goal games Single-game high of seven points (3G-4A) on Mar. 15, 2025
Alexander Radulov (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) 45G-75A-120 PTS over 50-game point streak Averaging 2.40 points per game 37 multi-point outings 12 multi-goal games Single-game high of seven points (6G-1A) on Oct. 28, 2005
The London Knights showcased their dominance in Game 1 of the OHL Western Conference Finals on April 25, 2025, with a commanding 5-2 victory over the Kitchener Rangers at Canada Life Place. The Knights, who entered the series well-rested after consecutive sweeps in earlier rounds, wasted no time asserting their presence.
The first period was a masterclass in offensive execution, as the Knights scored four goals to stun the Rangers. Landon Sim opened the scoring just 2:08 into the game, redirecting a pass from Cam Allen past Rangers goaltender Jackson Parsons. Less than two minutes later, Sam Dickinson, the newly crowned OHL Defenceman of the Year, capitalized on his own rebound to double the lead. Dickinson wasn’t done yet; he added another goal with just 10.2 seconds remaining in the period, bringing his tally to two goals and two assists for the night. Kasper Halttunen also contributed to the first-period onslaught with a powerful one-timer during a Knights power play.
The second period saw the teams exchange goals. Blake Montgomery extended London’s lead to 5-0 with a brilliant individual effort down the left wing. Kitchener responded with their first goal of the series, courtesy of Luca Romano, who found the back of the net on a pass from Tanner Lam. Romano struck again in the third period, narrowing the deficit to 5-2, but the Rangers couldn’t mount a comeback.
Knights goaltender Austin Elliott was solid between the pipes, making key saves to preserve the lead, while the Knights’ penalty kill went a perfect 3-for-3. The Rangers struggled to find their rhythm, outshot 41-24 by the Knights.
Sam Dickinson was undoubtedly the star of the game, leading the Knights with his four-point performance. His contributions on both ends of the ice highlighted why he is one of the league’s premier players. Kasper Halttunen and Blake Montgomery also shone, showcasing their offensive prowess.
The Knights’ victory sets the tone for the series as they chase back-to-back OHL titles. Game 2 is scheduled for April 27, and the Knights will look to build on their momentum while the Rangers aim to regroup and challenge their formidable opponents. The Battle of the 401 promises more thrilling hockey action in the days ahead.
OSHAWA GENERALS 3 – BARRIE COLTS 1
The Oshawa Generals kicked off the OHL Eastern Conference Finals with a decisive 3-1 victory over the Barrie Colts on April 25, 2025, at Sadlon Arena. The Generals, riding a wave of momentum from their previous playoff series, showcased their resilience and skill in this high-stakes opener.
The game remained scoreless through the first period, with both teams trading chances but unable to capitalize. Generals goaltender Jacob Oster and Colts netminder Sam Hillebrandt were stellar, keeping their respective teams in the contest. The second period, however, saw the Generals break through. Owen Griffin opened the scoring with his 12th goal of the playoffs, assisted by Beckett Sennecke. Griffin’s goal was confirmed after a video review, adding drama to the moment. Just minutes later, Matthew Buckley doubled Oshawa’s lead with a power-play goal, deflecting a shot from Noah Powell. Buckley’s goal also underwent video review but was upheld, solidifying the Generals’ 2-0 advantage heading into the final frame.
The Colts fought back in the third period, with Anthony Romani finding the back of the net to cut the lead to 2-1. Romani’s goal, his 10th of the playoffs, showcased his offensive prowess and gave Barrie hope for a comeback. However, Oshawa’s Calum Ritchie dashed those hopes with an empty-net goal in the final minute, sealing the Generals’ victory.
Jacob Oster was a standout performer, making 27 saves and providing a steady presence in net for Oshawa. Owen Griffin’s opening goal and overall playoff performance solidified his status as a key player for the Generals. Matthew Buckley’s power-play marker proved to be the game-winner, highlighting his ability to deliver in crucial moments. Calum Ritchie’s empty-net goal was the icing on the cake, ensuring Oshawa’s triumph.
The Generals’ win not only gave them a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series but also wrested home-ice advantage from the Colts. With Game 2 set for April 27, Oshawa will look to build on their momentum, while Barrie aims to regroup and even the series. The Eastern Conference Finals promise more thrilling action as these two teams battle for a spot in the OHL Championship.
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown in the OHL Western Conference Finals as the London Knights take on the Kitchener Rangers. Both teams have had remarkable journeys to reach this point, and fans can expect a thrilling series filled with high-stakes hockey, standout performances, and intense rivalries.
Regular Season Series Recap
The London Knights and Kitchener Rangers faced off six times during the regular season, with the Knights emerging victorious in four of those matchups. London showcased their dominance throughout the season, while Kitchener proved to be a resilient opponent capable of challenging even the best teams. This history sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive series.
Players to Watch
For the London Knights, Easton Cowan has been a standout performer in the playoffs. The Toronto Maple Leafs prospect has been nothing short of sensational, leading the team with eight goals and 13 assists in just eight games. His ability to create scoring opportunities and deliver in clutch moments makes him a key player to watch. Additionally, Denver Barkey and Sam O’Reilly have been instrumental in London’s success, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive firepower.
On the Kitchener Rangers’ side, Luke Ellinas has been a revelation. The Ottawa Senators prospect played a pivotal role in Kitchener’s historic reverse sweep against the Windsor Spitfires, scoring crucial goals, including the overtime winner in Game 7. Ellinas leads the Rangers with six goals and 13 points in the playoffs, showcasing his knack for stepping up when it matters most. Goaltender Jackson Parsons has also been a cornerstone for Kitchener, boasting a .919 save percentage and a 2.12 goals-against average, making him a formidable last line of defense.
Playoff Performances
The London Knights have been a juggernaut in the postseason, sweeping both the Owen Sound Attack and the Erie Otters to maintain a perfect 8-0 record. Their depth and balanced attack have been key factors in their success, with multiple players averaging over a point per game. London’s power play has also been a significant weapon, operating at an impressive 30% success rate.
Meanwhile, the Kitchener Rangers have had a more arduous path to the finals. After a dramatic reverse sweep against Windsor, they enter the series with momentum and confidence. The Rangers’ resilience and ability to perform under pressure make them a dangerous opponent, despite having played more games than the well-rested Knights.
Series Outlook
Game 1 is set to take place on April 25th in London, and fans can expect a high-octane battle from the opening puck drop. Will the Knights continue their dominant run, or will the Rangers’ momentum carry them to an upset? One thing is certain: this series will be a must-watch for hockey enthusiasts.
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Eastern Conference Finals are set to deliver an exhilarating clash between the Barrie Colts and the Oshawa Generals. Both teams have fought valiantly to reach this stage, and fans can expect a series filled with high-intensity hockey, standout performances, and unforgettable moments.
Regular Season Series Recap
During the regular season, the Barrie Colts and Oshawa Generals faced off four times, with Barrie winning three of those encounters. The Colts demonstrated their offensive prowess and defensive stability, while the Generals showcased their resilience and ability to adapt. This history sets the stage for a fiercely competitive series, as both teams aim to capitalize on their strengths and exploit their opponent’s weaknesses.
Players to Watch
For the Barrie Colts, Dalyn Wakely has been a standout performer in the playoffs. Wakely has accumulated an impressive 21 points (6 goals, 15 assists) in 12 games, making him a key player to watch. His ability to create scoring opportunities and deliver in clutch moments has been instrumental in Barrie’s success. Additionally, Anthony Romani and Beau Jelsma have contributed significantly to the Colts’ offensive firepower, making them players to keep an eye on.
On the Oshawa Generals’ side, Colby Barlow has been nothing short of sensational. The Winnipeg Jets prospect leads the Generals with 21 points (9 goals, 12 assists) in 12 playoff games. Barlow’s leadership and scoring ability have been pivotal in Oshawa’s journey to the finals. Luca Marrelli and Owen Griffin have also been key contributors, providing depth and versatility to the Generals’ lineup.
Playoff Performances
The Barrie Colts have had a challenging yet rewarding playoff run. After dispatching the Niagara IceDogs in the first round with a 4-1 series win, Barrie faced a tough battle against the Kingston Frontenacs in the second round. The Colts emerged victorious in a thrilling Game 7 showdown, securing their spot in the conference finals. Barrie’s ability to perform under pressure and their balanced attack have been key factors in their success.
The Oshawa Generals, on the other hand, have showcased their resilience and determination throughout the playoffs. After defeating the Brampton Steelheads in the first round (4-2), Oshawa overcame the Brantford Bulldogs in the second round with a 4-2 series win. The Generals’ defensive stability and strong goaltending have been crucial in their playoff journey, making them a formidable opponent for Barrie.
Series Outlook
Game 1 is set to take place on April 25th at Sadlon Arena in Barrie. With both teams bringing their best to the ice, fans can expect a high-octane battle from the opening puck drop. Will the Colts continue their impressive playoff run, or will the Generals’ resilience carry them to victory? One thing is certain: this series will be a must-watch for hockey enthusiasts.
Stay tuned as these four talented teams battle it out for a spot in the OHL Finals. Let the games begin!
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Owen Sound Attack forward Pierce Mbuyi is awarded the Emms Family Award as OHL Rookie of the Year as voted by the League’s General Managers.
Mbuyi led OHL rookies with 29 goals and 52 points over 63 games, setting a new single season points record by an Owen Sound 16-year-old rookie in the process. He had a highly productive second half of the season, producing 38 points (21-17–38), including three hat-tricks, over 33 games after January 1st. Mbuyi was the OHL’s Rookie of the Month for February and earned Rookie of the Week honours three different times.
“It is a huge honour to be named OHL Rookie of the Year,” said Mbuyi. “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates, coaches and everyone behind the scenes in Owen Sound. I want to thank my coaches for their trust and belief in me, giving me so much opportunity to play every night. I also want to thank my billets Jason and Shirra for welcoming me into their home and treating me as one of their own. Lastly, I want to thank all my friends and family back home for all their support, I really couldn’t have done it without them.”
Selected seventh overall by the Attack from the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Mbuyi also led OHL rookies with 11 power play goals and 180 shots on goal in 2024-25. He won a silver medal with Canada Red at the 2024 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, and will be eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft.
“We are incredibly proud of what Pierce has been able to accomplish this season and to be acknowledged as the OHL Rookie of the Year is outstanding,” said Attack General Manager Dale DeGray. “With some of the players we’ve had come through Owen Sound, it’s hard to believe that Pierce is the first Attack recipient of this award. It speaks volumes to how Pierce was able to perform this season with such a young team. His skill and effort was certainly noticeable from the very start, as you could tell from the crowd’s reaction when he scored a goal. Congratulations Pierce, it’s a tremendous accomplishment.”
Mbuyi is the first player in Owen Sound’s OHL history to win the award. He follows other recent winners in Brantford Bulldogs forward Jake O’Brien (2023-24) and Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa (2022-23).
The Emms Family Award was donated by Leighton “Hap” Emms, former owner of the Barrie, Niagara Falls and St. Catharines OHL franchises. The award is selected by all 20 member team General Managers. Teams were asked to submit only one nominee from their own club for consideration on the ballot and were not permitted to vote for the player from their own hockey club.
Mbuyi finished as the front-runner in the award voting process followed by Windsor Spitfires forward Ethan Belchetz who placed second.
Pierce Mbuyi will be formally recognized as the OHL Rookie of the Year at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony to be held at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
For a complete list of OHL award winners, click here.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Kitchener Rangers Head Coach Jussi Ahokas is the 2024-25 recipient of the Matt Leyden Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Coach of the Year as voted by the League’s General Managers.
Ahokas steered the Rangers to their fourth 100-point season in franchise history, finishing with a regular season record of 47-15-4-2. Kitchener boasted the league’s second-ranked penalty kill (84.8%) and surrendered the second-fewest goals in the OHL (183) with great goaltending from Jackson Parsons.
Kitchener exceeded expectations in 2024-25, entering the year as the League’s 13th-ranked team on the preseason edition of OHL Power Rankings as voted by members of the media. The Rangers finished the campaign in second, holding down top spot for six weeks during the regular season. They went on a 10-game winning streak from Oct. 12 – Nov. 8, 2024.
“I am really honoured to receive this award,” said Ahokas. “It is a testament to the great work this team has done up to this point and I am really proud of that. This award is also a reflection of the great coaching staff around me. This wouldn’t be possible without them, so this award is shared with them.”
The Rangers benefitted from the aforementioned Parsons in the crease, while finding success with a team-wide approach led by early season addition Jack Pridham, overage forwards Adrian Misaljevic and Trent Swick, as well as draft eligible Cameron Reid and Luca Romano. Hard-hitting captain Matthew Andonovski provided leadership from the back end.
Ahokas is the first Rangers bench boss to earn the Matt Leyden Trophy since Joe McDonnell in 1988-89. Tom Barrett is the only other Rangers coach to have claimed the honour, doing so in 1983-84.
“We are extremely proud of Jussi and the entire coaching staff for earning this honour,” said Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. “They spend countless hours and significant time away from their families throughout the hockey season trying to make our team and players the best they can be. It is nice to see them acknowledged for their dedication, hard work and expertise.”
Flanked on the bench by Associate Coach Jeff Kyrzakos and Assistant Coach Brad Flynn, Ahokas is the first European Head Coach in OHL history. He follows recent award recipients in Derek Laxdal of the Oshawa Generals (2023-24), Dave Cameron of the Ottawa 67’s (2022-23) and James Richmond of the Brampton Steelheads (2021-22).
“When we decided to hire Jussi it was considered an outside the box hire due to his European background and little experience in North America but he has shown how good of a coach and leader he is,” added McKenzie. “We are thankful to have him and the rest of our staff here in Kitchener and look forward to what the future holds with Jussi and his coaching staff.”
Ahokas finished as the frontrunner in award voting, trailed by both Jay McKee of the Brantford Bulldogs and Dale Hunter of the London Knights who tied for second.
A native of Oulu, Finland, Ahokas was a goaltender before transitioning to coaching in Finland’s junior ranks in 2004-05. He ascended to coach Finland to a World Junior gold medal in 2020 while also earning Finnish Liiga Coach of the Year honours that same season. He completes his second season as Head Coach in Kitchener owning an overall regular season record of 88-38-4-6, steering the Rangers to consecutive 40+ win seasons for the first time since 2007.
The Matt Leyden Trophy has been awarded annually to the OHL’s Coach of the Year as selected by his peers since 1972. The award is in recognition of the contributions of Matt Leyden, past president of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1965-67, and former manager of the Oshawa Generals who spent more than 50 years with the team.
Ahokas will be formally recognized as OHL Coach of the Year at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas of the Windsor Spitfires is the 2024-25 recipient of the William Hanley Trophy presented annually to the League’s Most Sportsmanlike Player as voted by OHL General Managers.
Protas finished second in OHL scoring with a total of 124 points including 50 goals and 74 assists over 61 games, recording a plus-58 rating with eight game-winning goals along the way. The 6-foot-5, 200Ib. centreman took 34 minutes in penalties.
“I’m grateful to be recognized for demonstrating good sportsmanship as it is a reflection of my commitment to competing at the highest levels of the game,” said Protas. “I’m honoured to follow in the footsteps of fellow Windsor Spitfires Wyatt Johnston and Kyle Wellwood who won this award. It’s a special award and it is great to win in this league with a lot of very talented and high character players.”
An 18-year-old from Vitebsk, Belarus, Protas was a third round (75th overall) pick by the Washington Capitals at last summer’s NHL Draft. The Spitfires selected him third overall in the 2024 CHL Import Draft as he becomes the first Import to claim Most Sportsmanlike honours since Vitali Yachmenev of the North Bay Centennials back in 1995. Protas is the first player to score 50 goals in his first OHL season since Alex DeBrincat of the Erie Otters in 2014-15.
“What a great honour for Ilya,” said Spitfires GM Bill Bowler. “He plays the game the right way with an unbelievable hockey IQ. Ilya is able to compete and play at such a high level with such sportsmanship, which is a credit to his character. He is a great representative of the Windsor Spitfires and the Ontario Hockey League.”
Protas was named OHL Player of the Month for March and honoured as OHL Player of the Week on two occasions this season. His 2.03 points-per-game are the most over a full season by a Windsor Spitfires player since Jason Spezza (2.09) in 2000-01.
The William Hanley Trophy is awarded each year based on a selection by the 20 General Managers of the Ontario Hockey League. All 20 teams submit a nominee but are not permitted to vote for their own candidate. The trophy is presented by the OHL to commemorate William Hanley, former Secretary-Manager of the Ontario Hockey Association for over 25 years.
Protas finished first in this year’s voting for the award, followed by runner-up Patrick Thomas of the Brantford Bulldogs.
Protas follows recent winners in Jett Luchanko of the Guelph Storm (2023-24), Evan Vierling of the Barrie Colts (2022-23) and Spitfires forward Wyatt Johnston (2021-22). He will be formally presented with the William Hanley Trophy at the OHL’s Awards Ceremony in June at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
For a complete list of OHL award winners, click here.
OHL Writers 