CHL Announces Weekly Award Winners

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Vilardi and Hart star in first round action 

Frontenacs’ Gabriel Vilardi named CHL Player of the Week 

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Los Angeles Kings prospect Gabriel Vilardi of the Kingston Frontenacs is the CHL Player of the Week for the playoff week ending April 1 after recording 10 points in three games scoring five goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-4. 

Vilardi’s trio of multi-point performances helped the Frontenacs win the final three games of their first round playoff series against the North Bay Battalion to advance to the OHL Eastern Conference Semi-Finals for the second straight year.  Vilardi scored the series clinching goal in triple overtime of Game 5 on Saturday ending the third longest game in OHL playoff history at 114:05.  The goal was part of a four-point effort that also included the game’s first goal on the power play earning him first star honours in the 6-5 triumph.  His week also included two goals and one assist as second star of a 4-1 win in Game 3 on Tuesday, then one goal and two assists as third star of a 6-3 victory in Game 4 on Thursday.  The Frontenacs will now face the Barrie Colts in second round action beginning Wednesday. 

An 18-year-old from Kingston, Ont., Vilardi is playing in his third OHL season and first with his hometown Frontenacs after being acquired from the Mastercard Memorial Cup champion Windsor Spitfires in January.  The second overall pick in the 2015 OHL Priority Selection and 11th overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft is currently second in OHL playoff scoring with 12 points through five games after producing at an impressive 1.81 points-per-game rate during the regular season with 22 goals and 36 assists for 58 points in just 32 games after returning from injury. 

Also considered for the award this week was Arizona Coyotes prospect Brayden Burke of the Moose Jaw Warriors who scored five goals and five assists for 10 points in four games against the Prince Albert Raiders, and Peter Abbandonato of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies who scored four goals and five assists for nine points in four games against the Sherbrooke Phoenix. 

2017-18 CHL Players of the Week – Playoffs:
Mar. 26 – Apr. 1: Gabriel Vilardi (Kingston Frontenacs)
Mar. 19 – Mar. 25: Brad Morrison (Lethbridge Hurricanes)

2017-18 CHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:

Mar. 12 – Mar. 18: Dillon Dube (Kelowna Rockets)
Mar. 5 – Mar. 11: Jayden Halbgewachs (Moose Jaw Warriors)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 4: Maxime Comtois (Victoriaville Tigres)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Aaron Luchuk (Barrie Colts)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Maxime Comtois (Victoriaville Tigres)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Ty Ronning (Vancouver Giants)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Peter Abbandonato (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Taylor Raddysh (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Owen Tippett (Mississauga Steelheads)
Dec. 25 – Dec. 31: Ivan Kosorenkov (Victoriaville Tigres)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 17: Morgan Frost (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Stelio Mattheos (Brandon Wheat Kings)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Alex Barré-Boulet (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Cody Glass (Portland Winterhawks)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Cliff Pu (London Knights)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Aleksi Heponiemi (Swift Current Broncos)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Albert Michnac (Mississauga Steelheads)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Aaron Luchuk (Windsor Spitfires)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Drake Batherson (Cape Breton Screaming Eagles)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Tyler Soy (Victoria Royals)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Kale Clague (Brandon Wheat Kings)
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1: Tyler Steenbergen (Swift Current Broncos)
Sept. 21 – Sept. 24: Kole Lind (Kelowna Rockets) 

Silvertips’ Carter Hart named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week 

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Philadelphia Flyers prospect Carter Hart of the Everett Silvertips is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the playoff week ending April 1 after posting a 3-0 record including one shutout with a goals-against-average of 1.33 and save percentage of .960. 

Hart made 97 saves last week backstopping the Silvertips to three-straight wins and a first round series victory over the defending champion Seattle Thunderbirds.  With the series tied 1-1, the three-time regular season award winner turned aside 33 shots in Tuesday’s Game 3 earning first star honours in the 3-1 win.  In Game 4 on Friday he made 28 saves in the 7-3 win, then closed out the series in style with a 36-save performance in Saturday’s Game 5 finale earning first star honours in the 4-0 decision.  The U.S. Division champion Silvertips will now face the winner between the Portland Winterhawks and Spokane Chiefs in second round action. 

A 19-year-old from Sherwood Park, Alta., Hart is playing in his fourth full WHL season with Everett after being chosen by the club in the eighth round of the 2013 Bantam Draft.  Recently named 2017-18 WHL Western Conference Player of the Year, Goaltender of the Year, and First Team All-Star, Hart carries a 1.97 goals-against-average and .938 save percentage through five playoff games after maintaining marks of 1.60 and .947 during 41 regular season appearances.  He was chosen in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft by the Flyers. 

Also considered for the award this week was Carolina Hurricanes prospect Jeremy Helvig who went 3-0 for the Kingston Frontenacs who eliminated the North Bay Battalion in five games making 105 saves for a goals-against-average of 2.32 and save percentage of .921.  In the QMJHL, Samuel Harvey of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies posted a 2-1-1 record including one shutout making a total of 139 saves for a goals-against-average of 2.00 and save percentage of .946 in first round action against the Sherbrooke Phoenix. 

2017-18 Vaughn CHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs:
Mar. 26 – Apr. 1: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Mar. 19 – Mar. 25: Stuart Skinner (Swift Current Broncos)

2017-18 Vaughn CHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:

Mar. 12 – Mar. 18: Patrick Dea (Tri-City Americans)
Mar. 5 – Mar. 11: Etienne Montpetit (Victoriaville Tigres)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 4: Shane Farkas (Portland Winterhawks)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Emanuel Vella (Mississauga Steelheads)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Riley Lamb (Red Deer Rebels)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Brody Willms (Moose Jaw Warriors)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Zachary Bouthillier (Chicoutimi Sagueneens)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Jeremy Helvig (Kingston Frontenacs)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Mario Culina (Kitchener Rangers)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Stuart Skinner (Swift Current Broncos)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Samuel Harvey (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies)
Dec. 25 – Dec. 31: James Porter (Kelowna Rockets)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 17: Tristan Bérubé (Gatineau Olympiques)
 Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Anthony Morrone (Victoriaville Tigres)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Justin Fazio (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Cole Kehler (Portland Winterhawks)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Dustin Wolf (Everett Silvertips)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Samuel Harvey (Rouyn-Noranada Huskies)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Logan Flodell (Swift Current Broncos)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Cole Kehler (Portland Winterhawks)
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1: Dereck Baribeau (Quebec Remparts)
Sept. 21 – Sept. 24: Michael DiPietro (Windsor Spitfires)

CHL Leagues

Playoff Preview and Predictions: Round Two

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

OHL Playoffs

Over the years, the one thing I have been most proud of is my record on predictions. Despite getting six of eight correct, and four of those six in the correct number of games, picking London to defeat Owen Sound and Oshawa to defeat Niagara in seven games and having them end the way they did is, well, embarrassing.

Pick whichever cliché fits. I’ll go with “you can’t win ‘em all.” Here is a look back at the first-round predictions and results:

OHL Playoffs

Round two promises to provide some interesting and competitive series which, statistically, look as though they could go in any which way. Below, we look at each series and my pick to come out on top as well as key draft eligible players to watch for.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Hamilton (1) vs Niagara (4)

  Hamilton Niagara
Season Series 1-3-1-1 5-0-1-0
Home record 22-9-0-3 21-10-2-1
Road record 21-9-4-0 13-18-2-1
Goals for 252 240
Goals against 207 235
Powerplay (regular season) 24.6% 19.5%
Powerplay (playoffs) 47.6% 30.4%
Penalty kill (regular season) 77.1% 80.1%
Penalty kill (playoffs) 76.5% 89.3%
PP vs opponent 33.3% 39.1%
PK vs Opponent 60.9% 66.7%
Leading scorer Thomas (24-51-75) Miletic (36-56-92)
Leading after 2nd 33-2-0-2 27-0-1-2
Trailing after 2nd 6-15-2-0 4-18-2-1
Last 10 games 4-1 4-1

Some of you may be surprised to find that Niagara dominated the regular season between these two clubs. But as they say. “it’s a new season.” Hamilton holds an edge in special team’s stats, but Niagara owns the head to head specialty team battles. Both teams are very good at home, but Hamilton holds a decided advantage on the road. In fact, Hamilton’s only victory over Niagara in the regular season came on the road. Three of the six games went into overtime or a shootout, so this series could be very close.

Draft eligible players to watch: Barring injury, backup goaltender Nick Donofrio likely won’t see any starts and is the only first-time draft eligible player to earn a ranking from NHL Central Scouting. Brandon Saigeon however, re-enters the draft and is a player to watch.

For Niagara, Akil Thomas is projected to go in the first round at the draft in June and will be key for Niagara. Justin MacPherson could be a late round pick.

Prediction: Hamilton in 6 games

Barrie (2) vs Kingston (3)

  Barrie Kingston
Season Series 1-3-0-0 3-1-0-0
Home record 22-9-2-1 22-6-5-1
Road record 20-12-2-0 14-17-1-2
Goals for 297 243
Goals against 229 202
Powerplay (regular season) 22.8% 25.7%
Powerplay (playoffs) 31.8% 33.3%
Penalty kill (regular season) 79.3% 84.7%
Penalty kill (playoffs) 84.7% 66.7%
PP vs opponent 23.1% 35.3%
PK vs Opponent 64.7% 76.9%
Leading scorer Luchuk (50-65-115) Robertson (41-46-87)
Leading after 2nd 31-2-2-0 25-3-2-2
Trailing after 2nd 4-17-1-0 5-17-2-0
Last 10 games 4-2 4-1

 Just like the Hamilton/Niagara matchup, this is a series in which the lower seed held the advantage during the regular season. Again, both teams are strong at home, but Barrie held a decided advantage on the road. But both teams won in the other’s barn.

Both teams loaded up for a playoff run and are split in head-to-head matchups since doing so.

Draft eligible players to watch: For Barrie, obviously it’s Andrei Svechnikov, who will be the first player taken from the OHL in June. But also keep an eye on menacing defenceman Tyler Tucker, who is coming off a very good performance in the opening round.

For Kingston, there is Linus Nyman who re-enters the draft and is a possible late round pick.

Prediction: Barrie in 6 games

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Sault Ste. Marie (1) vs Owen Sound (4)

  Sault Ste. Marie Owen Sound
Season Series 1-0-0-1 1-1-0-0
Home record 31-1-2 21-8-0-5
Road record 24-6-1-3 17-14-3-0
Goals for 317 289
Goals against 186 247
Powerplay (regular season) 24.8% 21.8%
Powerplay (playoffs) 52.6% 33.3%
Penalty kill (regular season) 82.0% 80.1%
Penalty kill (playoffs) 91.7% 61.5%
PP vs opponent 66.7% 25.7%
PK vs Opponent 75.0% 33.7%
Leading scorer Frost (42-70-112) Suzuki (42-58-100)
Leading after 2nd 39-0-0-0 33-2-3-1
Trailing after 2nd 5-6-1-3 3-13-0-2
Last 10 games 4-0 4-0

Wow. If only Owen Sound had done something to upgrade their goaltending at trade deadline, this would have been the series to watch. But even so, every advantage goes to the Greyhounds. Luckily for the Attack, the games are played on the ice.

Draft eligible players to watch: The Greyhounds have two potential first rounders in Barrett Hayton and Rasmus Sandin. They also have Mac Hollowell who re-enters the draft.

The Attack have two players who re-enter the draft and should garner a lot of attention. Sean Durzi and Brady Lyle man the blueline. Aidan Dudas is a little fireplug who is eligible for the first time and a must watch.

Prediction: Sault Ste. Marie in 5 games

Kitchener (2) vs Sarnia (3)

  Kitchener Sarnia
Season Series 3-0-0-1 1-3-0-0
Home record 22-11-1-0 21-9-3-1
Road record 21-10-2-1 21-9-3-1
Goals for 246 299
Goals against 218 213
Powerplay (regular season) 20.7% 24.2%
Powerplay (playoffs) 31.6% 0%
Penalty kill (regular season) 82.9% 88.5%
Penalty kill (playoffs) 73.9% 90.9%
PP vs opponent 0% 20.0%
PK vs Opponent 80.0% 100.0%
Leading scorer Mascherin (40-46-86) Kyrou (39-70-109)
Leading after 2nd 30-2-1-0 35-1-2-0
Trailing after 2nd 6-14-2-0 1-13-1-1
Last 10 games 4-2 4-2

Flip a coin. About as even a matchup as you will find, though Sarnia holds the advantage on offence. This will come down to home ice. Two of Kitchener’s victories over Sarnia were decisive, but in Sarnia’s lone win went to a shootout.

Draft eligible players to watch: Sarnia’s lone player to watch re-enters the draft, Hugo Leufvenius. There is a trio of Rangers to keep an eye on in Giovanni Vallati, Riley Damiani and Adam Liska. Also, Rickard Hugg re-enters the draft.

Prediction: Kitchener in 7 games

2018 OHL Playoffs – Second Round Schedule

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The first round of the 2018 Ontario Hockey League Playoffs wrapped up Sunday with a trio of Game 6 decisions meaning all four Conference Semi-Final matchups are now set and final second round schedules have been confirmed.  For the second straight season, the top four seeds in each conference have advanced.

OHL Logo

In the Western Conference, the OHL’s Regular Season and West Division champion Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds advanced with a 4-0 series win over the Saginaw Spirit and will face the fourth place Owen Sound Attack who also advanced with a 4-0 series win defeating the London Knights.  The other Western Conference Semi-Final features the Midwest Division champion Kitchener Rangers against the third seeded Sarnia Sting who both advanced with Game 6 victories over the Guelph Storm and Windsor Spitfires respectively.

In the Eastern Conference, the first place East Division champion Hamilton Bulldogs advanced with a 4-1 series win over the Ottawa 67’s and will meet the fourth place Niagara IceDogs who also advanced with a 4-1 series victory against the Oshawa Generals.  The other Eastern Conference Semi-Final features the Central Division champion Barrie Colts who eliminated the Mississauga Steelheads in a 4-2 series win, up against the third place Kingston Frontenacs who advanced with a 4-1 series win over the North Bay Battalion clinching in dramatic triple overtime to end the league’s third longest game in playoff history. The puck drops on second round action beginning Wednesday night, April 4. 2018 #OHLPLAYOFFS BRACKETS

2018 OHL WESTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFF SCHEDULE:

Series E: Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (1) vs. Owen Sound Attack (4):

Game 1,Thurs., April 5 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m.

Game 2, Fri., April 6 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m.

Game 3, Mon., April 9 at Owen Sound, 7:00 p.m.

Game 4, Wed., April 11 at Owen Sound, 7:00 p.m.

Game 5, Fri., April 13 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m.*

Game 6, Sun., April 15 at Owen Sound, 7:00 p.m.*

Game 7, Tues., April 17 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m.*

#SSMvsOS

Series F: Kitchener Rangers (2) vs. Sarnia Sting (3):

Game 1, Fri., April 6 at Kitchener, 7:30 p.m.

Game 2, Sun., April 8 at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m.

Game 3, Tues., April 10 at Sarnia, 7:05 p.m.

Game 4, Thurs., April 12 at Sarnia, 7:05 p.m.

Game 5, Fri., April 13 at Kitchener, 7:30 p.m.*

Game 6, Sun., April 15 at Sarnia, 5:00 p.m.*

Game 7, Tues., April 17 at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m.*

#KITvsSAR

*if necessary

2018 OHL EASTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFF SCHEDULE:

Series E: Hamilton Bulldogs (1) vs. Niagara IceDogs (4):

Game 1, Thurs., April 5 at Hamilton, 7:00 p.m.

Game 2, Sat., April 7 at Hamilton, 7:00 p.m.

Game 3, Mon., April 9 at Niagara, 7:00 p.m.

Game 4, Wed., April 11 at Niagara, 7:00 p.m.

Game 5, Thurs., April 12 at Hamilton, 7:00 p.m.*

Game 6, Sat., April 14 at Niagara, 7:00 p.m.*

Game 7, Mon., April 16 at Hamilton, 7:00 p.m.*

#HAMvsNIAG

Series F: Barrie Colts (2) vs. Kingston Frontenacs (3):

Game 1, Wed., April 4 at Barrie, 7:30 p.m.

Game 2, Fri., April 6 at Barrie, 7:30 p.m.

Game 3, Sun., April 8 at Kingston, 6:00 p.m.

Game 4, Tues., April 10 at Kingston, 7:00 p.m.

Game 5, Thurs., April 12 at Barrie, 7:30 p.m.*

Game 6, Fri., April 13 at Kingston, 7:00 p.m.*

Game 7, Mon., April 16 at Barrie, 7:30 p.m.*

#BARvsKGN 

*if necessary

2017-18 OHL LIVE PLAYOFF PACKAGE SPECIALS:

The Ontario Hockey League, in association with its digital media partner NeuLion, are proud to offer special packages and rates for OHL Live coverage of the 2018 OHL Playoffs.  Powered by NeuLion, OHL Live provides coverage of all 20 teams in the OHL delivering all games throughout the regular season and playoffs.

Single Round Team Pass Home and Away: $25.99 Playoff All Access : $79.99

*All prices in Canadian dollars

In addition to these packages, OHL Live continues to offer single game passes and are available at a rate of $7.99 per game.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OHL LIVE AND TO SUBSCRIBE

OHL fans will continue to enjoy the enhanced OHL Live platform launched in the 2014-15 season. The enhanced OHL Live platform gives viewers the opportunity to watch up to four games at once with picture-in-picture and quad-view options along with the ability to choose between the home or away audio feed. OHL Live is also available for the iPhone, iPad, Android Smartphone, and Android Tablet through the OHL Live app.

OHL Announces Disciplinary Action

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

Game of Tuesday, March 27, 2018 – Kingston at North Bay 

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a review of an incident which took place in a game played in Sudbury on the 27th of March, 2018, involving the host North Bay Battalion and the visiting Kingston Frontenacs Hockey Club. 

The incident reviewed was a cross checking infraction involving player Liam Murray of the Kingston Frontenacs Hockey Club. 

Based on a review of the incident, it is the position of the League that player Liam Murray shall be suspended for two (2) games effective immediately. 

Game of Tuesday, March 27, 2018- Niagara at Oshawa 

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a review of an incident which took place in a game played in Oshawa on the 27th of March, 2018, involving the Generals and the visiting Niagara IceDogs Hockey Club. 

The incident reviewed was a cross checking incident involving player Renars Krastenbergs of the Oshawa Generals Hockey Club. 

Based on a review of the incident, it is the position of the League that player Renars Krastenbergs shall be suspended for three (3) games effective immediately.

Host Cities Announced for the 2018 CIBC Canada Russia Series

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Canada Russia

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with title partner CIBC, the Western Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey League, and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, today announced the six Canadian host cities for the 2018 CIBC Canada Russia Series to be played November 5-15.

The six-game series features regional league teams of Canadian National Junior Team candidates competing against the Russian National Junior Team and is an integral part of the identification process for Team Canada prior to the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.  The 2018 event will open with two games in the WHL, followed by two OHL matchups, and ending with a pair of contests hosted by the QMJHL.

Next season’s event begins in British Columbia with the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers and Vancouver Giants hosting Game’s 1 and 2 respectively on Monday November 5 and Tuesday November 6.  When the series shifts to Ontario it will be the OHL’s Sarnia Sting hosting Game 3 on Thursday November 8 followed by the Oshawa Generals hosting Game 4 on Monday November 12.  The series wraps up in Quebec with the QMJHL’s Sherbrooke Phoenix hosting Game 5 on Tuesday November 13 and the Drummondville Voltigeurs hosting Game 6 on Thursday November 15.

“Over the past 15 years we’ve seen the Canada and Russia rivalry ignite passion in CHL communities across our great country,” said CHL President David Branch. “This is truly a special event that showcases many of our league’s best players and future Canadian National Junior Team stars who will compete to defend gold on home soil at the 2019 IIHF World Junior Championship in Vancouver and Victoria.”

Since the event first began in 2003, CHL teams have played to an overall record of 61-22-1-6 and have won 12 of the 15 series including three straight.  The competitiveness of the rivalry has grown in recent years with five of the last eight series decided in the final game including last season where a shootout was required to decide the overall winner for the first time in event history.  A total of 36 players from last season’s event competed in the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo including 17 CHL players who won gold for Canada.

“The Canada-Russia rivalry is legendary and Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast will be cheering on our Canadian teams as they take in the action for this iconic showdown,” said Stephen Forbes, Executive Vice President, Banking Centres, CIBC.  “We congratulate the six host cities of the 2018 CIBC Canada Russia Series and we look forward to celebrating with our clients and employees in these communities, as we support the next generation of hockey talent through our partnership with the CHL.”

All six cities selected for games in 2018 have previously hosted this event including Kamloops, Sarnia, and Drummondville who will tie Sudbury’s CHL record with their fourth game.  Kamloops first hosted in 2006 with Team WHL skating to an 8-1 win, then in 2010 with Russia earning a 7-6 shootout win, and most recently in 2015 with Team WHL winning Game 2 of the series by a 4-2 score.  Sarnia hosted a 4-0 win for Team OHL in 2003, a 5-0 OHL win in 2006, and a 2-1 OHL victory in 2012.  Drummondville’s past three games include 2005 where Team QMJHL defeated Russia 7-4, 2009 where the QMJHL won 3-1, and most recently in 2010 won 4-3 by Russia.  Oshawa has hosted twice before including 2006 where Team OHL won by a 4-3 score, and in 2013 with Team Russia skating to a 5-2 win.  The other two clubs have hosted once with Vancouver’s game resulting in a 1-0 shootout win for Team WHL in 2012, and Sherbrooke’s event featuring a 4-3 win for Team QMJHL in 2013.

The 2018 CIBC Canada Russia series is supported by CHL associate sponsors Cooper Tires and Sherwin-Williams.  All games will be broadcast nationally on Sportsnet and TVA Sports.

2018 CIBC Canada Russia Series Schedule:

Game 1 – Monday November 5 at Kamloops, BC

Game 2 – Tuesday November 6 at Vancouver, BC

Game 3 – Thursday November 8 at Sarnia, ON

Game 4 – Monday November 12 at Oshawa, ON

Game 5 – Tuesday November 13 at Sherbrooke, QC

Game 6 – Thursday November 15 at Drummondville, QC

For event information please visit http://chlcanadarussia.ca.

CHL Announces Weekly Award Winners

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

WHL’s Eastern Conference Playoffs produce Top Performers

Hurricanes’ Brad Morrison named CHL Player of the Week 

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Brad Morrison of the Lethbridge Hurricanes is the CHL Player of the Week for the first week of playoff action ending March 25 after recording eight points in two games including three goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-4. 

Morrison delivered back-to-back multi-point performances for the Hurricanes who opened the WHL Playoffs with a pair of victories against their Central Division opponent the Red Deer Rebels.  In Game 1 on Friday night he scored once with an assist in a 6-0 shutout, then tallied a career-high six points in Game 2 on Saturday with two goals including the game-winner plus four assists as first star of the 8-3 win.  The series resumes Tuesday night in Red Deer. 

A 21-year-old from Prince George, B.C., Morrison is finishing his five-year WHL career in Lethbridge and was acquired by the Hurricanes from the Vancouver Giants midway through the 2017-18 campaign.  He also spent four full seasons with his hometown Cougars who chose him seventh overall in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.  This season Morrison produced a career-high 75 points in 74 games which included 40 points in 32 games with the Canes. 

Also considered for the award this week was Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Vitalii Abramov of the Victoriaville Tigres who scored three goals and three assists for six points in two wins against the Gatineau Olympiques in first round QMJHL Playoffs action, and Arizona Coyotes prospect Noel Hoefenmayer of the Ottawa 67’s who scored twice with four assists for six points in a two-game split against the Hamilton Bulldogs to open the Eastern Conference OHL Playoffs. 

2017-18 CHL Players of the Week – Playoffs:
Mar. 19 – Mar. 25: Brad Morrison (Lethbridge Hurricanes)

2017-18 CHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:

Mar. 12 – Mar. 18: Dillon Dube (Kelowna Rockets)
Mar. 5 – Mar. 11: Jayden Halbgewachs (Moose Jaw Warriors)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 4: Maxime Comtois (Victoriaville Tigres)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Aaron Luchuk (Barrie Colts)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Maxime Comtois (Victoriaville Tigres)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Ty Ronning (Vancouver Giants)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Peter Abbandonato (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Taylor Raddysh (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Owen Tippett (Mississauga Steelheads)
Dec. 25 – Dec. 31: Ivan Kosorenkov (Victoriaville Tigres)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 17: Morgan Frost (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Stelio Mattheos (Brandon Wheat Kings)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Alex Barré-Boulet (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Cody Glass (Portland Winterhawks)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Cliff Pu (London Knights)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Aleksi Heponiemi (Swift Current Broncos)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Albert Michnac (Mississauga Steelheads)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Aaron Luchuk (Windsor Spitfires)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Drake Batherson (Cape Breton Screaming Eagles)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Tyler Soy (Victoria Royals)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Kale Clague (Brandon Wheat Kings)
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1: Tyler Steenbergen (Swift Current Broncos)
Sept. 21 – Sept. 24: Kole Lind (Kelowna Rockets) 

Broncos’ Stuart Skinner named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week 

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Edmonton Oilers prospect Stuart Skinner of the Swift Current Broncos is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the first week of playoff action ending March 25 after posting a 1-1 record including a shutout victory with a goals-against-average of 1.01 and save percentage of .970. 

Skinner turned aside 64 shots last week for the Broncos who opened the WHL Playoffs at home by splitting games with their East Division opponent the Regina Pats.  On Friday night in Game 1 of the series he recorded his first career WHL playoff shutout with a 34-save performance that earned him first star honours in the 3-0 win.  In Game 2 on Saturday, Skinner made 30 saves but the Broncos fell short by a 2-1 score knotting the series at one win apiece.  Skinner’s strong play continued into this week earning first star honours in Game 3 on Monday night with a 39-save effort in a 4-1 victory.  The series resumes Wednesday night in Regina. 

A 19-year-old from Edmonton, Alta., Skinner is playing in his fourth WHL season and first with the Broncos when acquired in January from the Lethbridge Hurricanes where he played since his first round selection in the 2013 Bantam Draft.  In 25 appearances down the stretch for the Broncos he carried a 16-6-1-1 record with two shutouts for a goals-against-average of 2.68 and save percentage of .914.  Skinner was a third round pick by the Oilers in the 2017 NHL Draft. 

Also considered for the award this week was Zachary Bouthillier of the Chicoutimi Sagueneens who split the first two road games of the QMJHL Playoffs against the Acadie-Bathurst Titan but did earn a shutout victory making a total of 77 saves for a goals-against-average of 1.53 and save percentage of .963.  In the OHL Playoffs, Mario Culina of the Kitchener Rangers posted a 2-0 record against the Guelph Storm stopping 77 shots for a goals-against-average of 1.50 and save percentage of .963. 

2017-18 Vaughn CHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs:
Mar. 19 – Mar. 25: Stuart Skinner (Swift Current Broncos)

2017-18 Vaughn CHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:

Mar. 12 – Mar. 18: Patrick Dea (Tri-City Americans)
Mar. 5 – Mar. 11: Etienne Montpetit (Victoriaville Tigres)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 4: Shane Farkas (Portland Winterhawks)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Emanuel Vella (Mississauga Steelheads)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Riley Lamb (Red Deer Rebels)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Brody Willms (Moose Jaw Warriors)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Zachary Bouthillier (Chicoutimi Sagueneens)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Jeremy Helvig (Kingston Frontenacs)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Mario Culina (Kitchener Rangers)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Stuart Skinner (Swift Current Broncos)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Samuel Harvey (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies)
Dec. 25 – Dec. 31: James Porter (Kelowna Rockets)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 17: Tristan Bérubé (Gatineau Olympiques)
 Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Anthony Morrone (Victoriaville Tigres)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Justin Fazio (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Cole Kehler (Portland Winterhawks)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Dustin Wolf (Everett Silvertips)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Samuel Harvey (Rouyn-Noranada Huskies)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Logan Flodell (Swift Current Broncos)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Cole Kehler (Portland Winterhawks)
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1: Dereck Baribeau (Quebec Remparts)
Sept. 21 – Sept. 24: Michael DiPietro (Windsor Spitfires)

CHL Leagues

OHL Announces Disciplinary Action

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Game of Friday, March 23rd, 2018 – Oshawa at Niagara

The  Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a review of an incident which took place in a playoff game played in Niagara on the 23rd of March, 2018, involving the IceDogs and the visiting Oshawa Generals Hockey Club. 

The incident reviewed was a blindsiding penalty assessed to player Kyle Langdon of the Niagara IceDogs Hockey Club. 

Based on a review of the incident, it is the position of the League that player Kyle Langdon shall be suspended for six (6) games dating from but not including the game of Friday, March 23rd.

Details Announced for 2018 OHL Development Combine

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

 

  • Combine includes 76 top prospects eligible for the 2018 OHL Priority Selection
  • Media are invited to Oshawa’s Tribute Communities Centre for Photo/ENG opportunities, please RSVP for Interviews
  • See interviews and behind the scenes video of the OHL Combine at 12:00 pm on Saturday at Facebook.com/OHLHockey presented by Wawanesa Canada

 

 

OHL Combine

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the rosters and schedule for the 2018 OHL Development Combine which takes place March 24-25 at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa, ON.

The OHL Combine offers 76 players (36 forwards, 24 defencemen, and 16 goaltenders) born in 2002 the opportunity to showcase themselves both on and off the ice to OHL member team personnel.  Sport Testing results will be distributed to every OHL member team General Manager to assist in their evaluation for the OHL Priority Selection to be held on Saturday, April 7, 2018.

“The OHL Combine offers a unique experience for prospective players to enhance their own personal development in advance of the Priority Selection,” said Joe Birch, OHL Senior Director of Player Development and Special Events. “The data collected from skills testing identifies off and on-ice strengths to help players achieve peak performance, and provides another resource for our member teams in their evaluation process.”

The weekend program begins with off-ice testing conducted by Kinduct Technologies and on-ice testing performed by Okanagan Hockey Group, who operate the WHL Combines.  Oshawa Generals Player Development Skills Coach, Anthony Cornacchia, will lead the teams during a Skills Practice portion of Saturday’s on-ice time, while OHL Goaltending Consultant, Rick Wamsley, and members of the league’s Goaltending Advisory Board, will lead goalie specific on-ice sessions aimed at development.  Over the weekend players will partake in a seminar that focuses on proper Nutrition and Training for elite athletes led by Oshawa Generals Strength Coach, Kevin Chapman, along with representatives from Gatorade Canada.  Players will also compete in a series of 5-on-5 and 3-on-3 games on Sunday joined behind the bench by OHL member team personnel.  All games are available online at http://hockeytv.com.

Teams will be competing for the OHL Combine Cup Championship that awards points based on individual and team performances in both off and on-ice testing, as well as Sunday’s game results.

The 2018 event marks the eleventh straight year the OHL has hosted a skills development day for players and goaltenders in advance of the OHL Priority Selection.  Last season’s event featured 12 first round picks including Brandon Coe (3rd to North Bay), Nicholas Porco (4th to Saginaw), Blake Murray (7th to Sudbury), Jamieson Rees (9th to Sarnia), Ethan Keppen (10th to Flint), Connor McMichael (11th to Hamilton), Grayson Ladd (13th to Kitchener), Thomas Harley (14th to Mississauga), Mitchell Brewer (15th to Oshawa), Hayden Fowler (19th to Sault Ste. Marie), Mitchell Russell (20th to Owen Sound), and Emmett Sproule (21st to Erie).  Coe and Fowler were members of the OHL Combine Cup Champion Team Subban.

2018 OHL Development Combine Schedule:

Saturday March 24:

8:15 am to 9:15 am – Goalies Off-Ice Testing

9:30 am to 10:30 am – Team Stamkos (Blue) Off-Ice Testing

10:45 am to 11:45 am – Team Lindros (Red) Off-Ice Testing

12:00 pm to 1:00 pm – Team Ekblad (Orange) Off-Ice Testing

1:15 pm to 2:15 pm – Team Subban (White) Off-Ice Testing

12:00 pm to 1:15 pm – Team Subban and Team Stamkos Goalie On-Ice Skills and Practice

1:30 pm to 2:45 pm – Team Lindros and Team Ekblad Goalie On-Ice Skills and Practice

3:00 pm to 4:15 pm – Team Lindros (Red) On-Ice Testing and Skills Practice

4:30 pm to 5:45 pm – Team Ekblad (Orange) On-Ice Testing and Skills Practice

6:00 pm to 7:15 pm – Team Subban (White) On-Ice Testing and Skills Practice

7:30 pm to 8:45 pm – Team Stamkos (Blue) On-Ice Testing and Skills Practice

Sunday March 25:

8:15 am to 9:15 am – Team Stamkos (Blue) vs. Team Lindros (Red)

9:30 am to 10:30 am – Team Ekblad (Orange) vs. Team Subban (White)

12:55 pm to 2:00 pm – Team Red (Lindros) vs. Team Subban (White)

2:25 pm to 3:30 pm – Team Stamkos (Blue) vs. Team Ekblad (Orange)

2018 OHL Development Combine Rosters:

TEAM SUBBAN (WHITE)

Goaltenders:

78 Dalton McBride (Niagara North Stars)

79 Matthew Sbrocca (Windsor Jr. Spitfires)

80 Joe Rangers (Carleton Place Canadians U18)

81 Nick Chenard (Sun County Panthers)

Defencemen:

18 Thomas Gangl (Huron Perth Lakers)

19 Brett Pearce (Barrie Jr. Colts)

20 Nathan Ribau (Oakville Rangers)

21 Michael Renwick (Mississauga Reps)

22 Zack Terry (Oakville Rangers)

23 Max Morris (Barrie Jr. Colts)

Forwards:

24 Jake Uberti (Mississauga Reps)

25 Spencer Smith (Niagara North Stars)

26 Devlin O’Brien (Mississauga Reps)

27 Matthew Maggio (Sun County Panthers)

28 Kyle Jackson (Toronto Red Wings)

29 Finn Brown (Toronto Marlboros)

30 Blake Butler (Lambton Jr. Sting)

31 Ryan Beck (Oakland Jr. Grizzlies)

32 Justin Lemesurier (North Central Predators)

Coaches:

Derrick Walser (Asst. Coach, Peterborough Petes)

Matt Turek (Dir. of Player Personnel, Hamilton Bulldogs)

TEAM STAMKOS (BLUE)

Goaltenders:

82 Marco Latassa (Oakville Rangers)

83 Will Cranley (Peterborough Petes)

84 Marco Costantini (Vaughan Kings)

85 Mathias Onuska (Waterloo Wolves)

Defencemen:

3 Ethan Ritchie (Oakville Rangers)

4 Tyler Deline (Peterborough Petes)

5 Owen Luik (Oakville Rangers)

6 Jack Thompson (Clarington Toros)

7 Ryan Hall (Vaughan Kings)

8 Michael Suda (Buffalo Regals)

Forwards:

9 Reid Valade (Toronto Marlboros)

10 Matthew Perciballi (Don Mills Flyers)

11 Kalvyn Watson (Peterborough Petes)

12 Davis Young (Mississauga Reps)

13 Benjamin McFarlane (Cambridge Hawks)

14 Owen Holmes (Niagara North Stars)

15 Matthew Papais (Mississauga Reps)

16 Eric Russell (Vaughan Kings)

17 Sebastian Bulovs (Mississauga Senators)

Coaches:

Jeff Kyrzakos (Asst. Coach, Mississauga Steelheads)

Matt Hogan (Regional Scout, Windsor Spitfires)

Garrett Rutledge (Regional Scout, Flint Firebirds)

TEAM EKBLAD (ORANGE)

Goaltenders:

74 Tye Austin (Kanata Lasers U18)

75 Joe Vrbetic (Don Mills Flyers)

76 Jonathan Lemaire (Kemptville 73s U18)

77 Sami Molu (Toronto Jr. Canadiens)

Defencemen:

48 Lleyton Moore (Toronto Marlboros)

49 Thomas Haynes (Mississauga Senators)

50 Owen Shier (Central Ontario Wolves)

51 Austin D’Orazio (Vaughan Kings)

52 David Jesus (North York Rangers)

53 Logan Maunder (Peterborough Petes)

Forwards:

54 Ty Roberts (Vaughan Kings)

55 Ryan Gagnier (Sun County Panthers)

56 McKay Hayes (Toronto Marlboros)

57 Cooper Walker (Cambridge Hawks)

58 Aidan Hughes (Mississauga Reps)

59 Jayden Baptiste (Nepean Raiders U18)

60 James Hardie (Barrie Colts)

61 Ethan Sims (Niagara North Stars)

62 Ethan Cardwell (Clarington Toros)

Coaches:

Mike Duco (Asst. Coach, Peterborough Petes)

Dave Ross (Regional Scout, Owen Sound Attack)

TEAM LINDROS (RED)

Goaltenders:

70 Owen Bennett (Halton Hurricanes)

71 Chase Clark (Toronto Nationals)

72 Gavin Johnstone (Richmond Hill Coyotes)

73 Will McEvoy (Rockland Nationals U18)

Defencemen: 33 Jake Murray (Oakville Rangers)

34 Ben Roger (Quinte Red Devils)

35 Alec Belanger (Barrie Colts)

36 Aaron Chiarot (Mississauga Reps)

37 Anthony Costantini (Vaughan Kings)

38 Jack Abrams (Halton Hurricanes)

Forwards:

39 Ty Collins (York-Simcoe Express)

40 Joshua Barnes (Cornwall Colts U18)

41 Jean-Luc Foudy (Toronto Titans)

42 Bryce Ryan (Windsor Jr. Spitfires)

43 Joseph Serpa (Cambridge Hawks)

44 Nicolas Paolucci (Mississauga Rebels)

45 Jacob Vreugdenhil (Quinte Red Devils)

46 Nolan Burke (Peterborough Petes)

47 Cameron Snow (Barrie Colts)

Coaches:

Wes Wolfe (Asst. Coach, Erie Otters)

Dave McParlan (Head Scout, Flint Firebirds)

OHL Top Performers of the Month for March

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Top OHL Performers of the Month for regular season games played in March 2018, including Barrie Colts forwards Dmitry Sokolov and Andrei Svechnikov, Mississauga Steelheads defenceman Nicolas Hague and Sarnia Sting goaltender Justin Fazio.


 OHL Player of the Month – Dmitry Sokolov (Barrie Colts):

Dmitry Sokolov of the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.
Dmitry Sokolov of the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.


Minnesota Wild prospect Dmitry Sokolov of the Barrie Colts is the OHL Player of the Week for March after leading all players with 20 points including eight goals and 12 assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-12. Sokolov had point in all eight of his March contests, recording multi-point outputs in all but one to carry a 16-game point streak into the post-season. The Russian winger eared first star honours in a 6-3 win at Hamilton on Mar. 7th, recording a goal and two assists. The month was further highlighted by a pair of multi-goal performances on Mar. 8th with four points (2-2–4) in a 6-5 loss to Owen Sound and again on Mar. 10th with a pair of markers in a 6-4 win over Peterborough. Sokolov scored his 50th goal of the season in a three-point (1-2–3) showing on Mar. 16th at Sudbury as the Colts defeated his former club, the Sudbury Wolves 6-4.


 A 19-year-old native of Omsk, Russia, Sokolov wrapped up his third OHL season tied with teammate Aaron Luchuk for the league goal-scoring lead. Sokolov lit the lamp 50 times and added 46 assists for 96 points over 64 contests, scoring 30 of his goals over just 29 games with the Barrie Colts. The 6-foot, 206Ib. winger has recorded 220 points (128-92–220) over a 196-game OHL career after being Sudbury first round (3rd overall) pick in the 2015 CHL Import Draft. He was Minnesota’s seventh round (196th overall) pick in the 2016 NHL Draft.

OHL Defenceman of the Month – Nicolas Hague (Mississauga Steelheads):

Nicolas Hague of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images
Nicolas Hague of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images


For the second time this season, Vegas Golden Knights prospect Nicolas Hague of the Mississauga Steelheads is the OHL Defenceman of the Month after leading all blueliners with 12 points including five goals and seven assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-5. Hague had at least a point in all eight of his March contests, recording multi-point totals in four of those games. His month was headlined by a two-goal, record-breaking night on Mar. 16th in an important 5-2 win over the Ottawa 67’s. Hague scored his 34th and 35th goals of the season for his 76th point, surpassing the prior single-season points record of 75 held by Alexander Nylander (2015-16) and teammate Owen Tippett (2016-17). The win kept the Steelheads from falling any lower than seventh, where they finished in the Eastern Conference. Hague carries an 11-game point streak into the 2018 OHL Playoffs where the Steelheads will square off with the Barrie Colts.


 A 19-year-old native of Kitchener, Ont., Hague finished the season as Mississauga’s leading scorer with 78 points including 35 goals and 43 assists over 67 games. Mississauga’s all-time leader in points by a defenceman, Hague set a single-season franchise record for goals by a blueliner when he scored his 21st back on Jan. 5th against Kitchener. His 35 goals are the most by an OHL defenceman since Kingston’s Chris Allen scored 38 during the 1997-98 season. Hague represented Team OHL in the 2017 CIBC Canada-Russia Series back in November and was a second round pick of the Vegas Golden Knights this past summer. He was Mississauga’s second round pick in the 2014 OHL Priority Selection.

OHL Rookie of the Month – Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts):

Andrei Svechnikovof the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.
Andrei Svechnikov of the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.


For the fourth time this season, Barrie Colts forward Andrei Svechnikov is the OHL Rookie of the Month after leading all newcomers with 17 points including nine goals and eight assists along with a plus/minus rating of plus-10. The Russian winger produced points in all eight of his March contests, scoring twice on three different occasions. Svechnikov collected three points (2-1–3) in an 8-3 win over the Kingston Frontenacs on Mar. 3rd before embarking on a big weekend that saw him collect three goals and five assists over three contests from Mar. 7th to 10th. He tied a season-high with four points (2-2–4) in a 6-4 win over the Sudbury Wolves on Mar. 16th. Svechnikov enters the playoffs on an OHL season-high 23-game point streak dating back to Jan. 18th. He becomes the first player to earn four different OHL Rookie of the Month honours in one season since Ottawa’s Travis Konecny did so during the 2013-14 season.

A 17-year-old native of Barnaul, Russia, Svechnikov led OHL rookies in both goals (40) and points (72) over just 44 games. His 40 goals are the most by an OHL rookie since Erie’s Alex DeBrincat scored 51 in 2015.  Svechnikov represented Russia at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Buffalo, recording five assists in as many games against much older competition. The top-ranked North American skater in NHL Central Scouting’s January Midterm Rankings, Svechnikov represented Team Orr at the 2018 Sherwin-Williams CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in Guelph. He was the first overall pick of the 2017 CHL Import Draft. 


 Vaughn OHL Goaltender of the Month – Justin Fazio (Sarnia Sting):

Justin Fazio of the Sarnia Sting. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images
Justin Fazio of the Sarnia Sting. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images


For the second time this season, Sarnia Sting netminder Justin Fazio is the Vaughn OHL Goaltender of the Month. The fourth-year veteran played to a 4-1-0-0 record with a 2.76 goals-against average and .927 save percentage over five games. Fazio opened the month with a 25-save effort, helping the Sarnia Sting earn a franchise record 43rd victory over the Owen Sound Attack on Mar. 4th. His March performance was highlighted by a pair of 40-save efforts, with the first coming in a 2-1 win over the Guelph Storm on Mar. 10th. He turned in another 40-save effort in his final start of the season on Mar. 16th as the Sting defeated the London Knights 4-2. Fazio earned a pair of first star honours and was recognized as second star once in March.

A 20-year-old native of Sarnia, Ont., Fazio finished the season with a 37-11-3-0 record, a 2.85 goals-against average and a .918 save percentage. He concluded his OHL regular season career as the Sting franchise’s winningest goaltender at 92-62-10-3 with a 3.26 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage. He was originally Sarnia’s fourth round (60th overall) pick in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection.


 2017-18 OHL Performers of the Month:


 Player of the Month:
March – Dmitry Sokolov (Barrie Colts)
February – Aaron Luchuk (Barrie Colts)
January – Sam Miletic (Niagara IceDogs)
December – Morgan Frost (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
November – Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
October – Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Defenceman of the Month:
March – Nicolas Hague (Mississauga Steelheads)
February – Evan Bouchard (London Knights)
January – Nicolas Hague (Mississauga Steelheads)
December – Evan Bouchard (London Knights)
November – Evan Bouchard (London Knights)
October – Sean Durzi (Owen Sound Attack)
 Rookie of the Month:
March – Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts)
February – Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts)
January – Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts)
December – Rasmus Sandin (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
November – Blade Jenkins (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts)
 Vaughn Goaltender of the Month:
March – Justin Fazio (Sarnia Sting)
February – Jeremy Helvig (Kingston Frontenacs)
January – Mario Culina (Kitchener Rangers)
December – Matthew Villalta (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
November – Matthew Villalta (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)
October – Justin Fazio (Sarnia Sting)

OHL Western Conference Playoff Preview

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

playoff logo 2018

Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds (1) vs Saginaw Spirit (8)

  Sault Ste Marie Saginaw
Season Series 7-0-0-1 1-6-1-0
Home record 31-1-2-0 17-14-3-0
Road record 24-6-1-3 12-16-6-0
Goals for 317 196
Goals against 186 238
Powerplay 24.8% 14.7%
Penalty kill 82.0% 78.8%
PP vs opponent 20.7% 14.6%
PK vs Opponent 85.4% 79.3%
Leading scorer Frost (42-70-112) Kohn (20-34-54)
Leading after 2nd 39-0-0-0 22-2-2-0
Trailing after 2nd 5-6-1-3 3-24-2-0
Last 10 games 7-1-1-1 2-7-1-0

 

The Soo Greyhounds have a couple of potential first round picks in Rasmus Sandin and Barrett Hayton. The Saginaw Spirit have four players ranked by National Hockey League Central Scouting on their mid-term list: Caleb Everett, Max Grondin, Blade Jenkins and Damien Giroux. The Greyhounds have led the CHL Top 10 almost from the get-go and never looked back.

Prediction: Sault Ste Marie in 4 games

Kitchener Rangers (2) vs Guelph Storm (7)

  Kitchener Guelph
Season Series 5-2-1-0 3-4-1-0
Home record 22-11-1-0 17-10-5-2
Road record 21-10-2-1 13-19-0-2
Goals for 246 228
Goals against 218 263
Powerplay 20.7% 22.2%
Penalty kill 82.9% 79.7%
PP vs opponent 10.7% 21.4%
PK vs Opponent 78.6% 89.3%
Leading scorer Mascherin (40-46-86) Ratcliffe (41-27-68)
Leading after 2nd 30-2-1-0 22-2-0-1
Trailing after 2nd 6-14-2-0 3-24-3-0
Last 10 games 4-4-1-1 3-5-2-0

 

The Kitchener Rangers have 3 players on Central Scouting’s list; Giovanni Vallati, Riley Damiani and Adam Liska. The Guelph Storm have two players on the list; Ryan Merkley and Cam Hillis. If this becomes a series of special teams, the Storm have a chance.

Prediction: Kitchener in 6 games

Sarnia Sting (3) vs Windsor Spitfires (6)

  Sarnia Windsor
Season Series 5-1-0-0 1-5-0-0
Home record 25-8-1-0 16-13-3-2
Road record 21-9-3-1 16-17-1-0
Goals for 299 214
Goals against 213 224
Powerplay 24.2% 18.1%
Penalty kill 88.5% 81.2%
PP vs opponent 26.3% 16.7%
PK vs Opponent 83.3% 73.7%
Leading scorer Kyrou (39-70-109) Purboo (21-28-49)
Leading after 2nd 35-1-2-0 21-1-1-1
Trailing after 2nd 1-13-1-1 3-24-0-1
Last 10 games 5-4-0-1 5-4-1-0

 

The Sarnia Sting have no players ranked on Central Scouting’s mid-term rank while the Windsor Spitfires have; Connor Corcoran, Matthew MacDougall and Curtis Douglas. The length of this series will be determined by how many games Michael DiPietro can win.

Prediction: Sarnia in 6 games

Owen Sound Attack (4) vs London Knights (5)

  Owen Sound London
Season Series 2-4-0-0 4-1-1-0
Home record 21-8-0-5 18-13-2-1
Road record 17-14-3-0 21-12-0-1
Goals for 289 233
Goals against 247 212
Powerplay 21.8% 18.2%
Penalty kill 80.1% 80.5%
PP vs opponent 17.6% 9.1%
PK vs Opponent 90.9% 82.4%
Leading scorer Robertson (41-46-87) Brazeau (39-36-75)
Leading after 2nd 33-2-3-1 24-0-0-1
Trailing after 2nd 3-13-0-2 6-22-2-0
Last 10 games 7-2-1-0 7-3-0-0

 

The Owen Sound Attack’s lone player on Central Scouting’s list is Aidan Dudas. The London Knights are led by star defenseman Evan Bouchard along with Nathan Dunkley, Liam Foudy, Alec Regula, Billy Moskal and goaltender Jordan Kooy, although we expect Joseph Raaymakers will see all the action. The Knights will need to continue their excellent road record to squeak this one out.

Prediction: London in 7 games