OHL TO EVALUATE PERFORMANCE AND HEAD IMPACT MONITORING AT 2026 TOP PROSPECTS GAME

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

PETERBOROUGH (Wednesday, January 14, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) will conduct a technology evaluation at the OHL Top Prospects Game presented by Enbridge Gas in Peterborough, equipping both teams of NHL Draft-eligible prospects with Bearmind head impact and performance monitoring sensors.

The initiative reflects the OHL’s continued leadership within the Canadian Hockey League in exploring data-informed approaches that support elite player development, performance optimization, and long-term player availability, while maintaining a strong focus on player safety.

During the game and practices, Bearmind’s system will capture objective, on-ice data related to impact exposure and workload, enabling the league to assess how insights can complement existing coaching, medical, and development frameworks.

“As the world’s leading development league, the OHL has a responsibility to continually evaluate tools that can help teams better understand the demands placed on elite young athletes,” said Bryan Crawford, Commissioner of the OHL. “This evaluation allows us to explore how performance and impact data may support smarter decision-making around development, preparation, and player availability — all in service of our players’ long-term success.”

Bearmind’s technology is designed to provide teams with objective insights that help contextualize on-ice demands — not only from a safety perspective, but as part of a broader performance and development picture. Following recent implementations with teams in the QMJHL and the USHL, the OHL Top Prospects Game marks another step in Bearmind’s expansion across elite amateur hockey.

“At the CHL level, the conversation is about development excellence and we are happy to see that head impact monitoring is now part of the equation” said Mathieu Falbriard, CEO of Bearmind. “By combining impact exposure with performance context, teams can better manage workloads, optimize player availability, and support athletes through the most important years of their development. We’re proud to support the OHL as it evaluates how our data can strengthen that ecosystem.”

The evaluation also follows Bearmind’s recently announced partnership with Bauer Hockey, under which a collection of Canadian Hockey League teams will be equipped next season with sensor-ready Bauer RE-AKT 155 helmets, enabling leagues and teams to explore emerging technologies.

For players and families, initiatives such as this reflect a modern development philosophy — one that prioritizes performance intelligence, player availability, and informed decision-making, reinforcing the OHL’s position as a premier destination for high-potential athletes preparing for the next level.

About the Ontario Hockey League

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has long been regarded as the number one development league in the world, continuing to serve as a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League. The OHL consists of 20 teams, with 17 located in Ontario, two in the state of Michigan and one in the state of Pennsylvania. A proud member of the Canadian Hockey League, the OHL is also a leading provider of hockey scholarships, with over 329 graduates receiving OHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice in 2024-25, resulting in a collective investment of over $42 million by OHL member teams over the past 15 years.

About Bearmind

Bearmind is a Swiss sports technology company dedicated to protecting athletes and advancing performance. Bearmind head impact monitoring and analytics platform helps teams and organizations understand and manage head impact exposure, optimize athlete performance, and enhance athlete safety through data-driven insight.

Read more: www.bearmind.tech

2025-26 CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott: Saguenéens Hold No. 1 as Everett, Brantford Stay Close; Moncton, Medicine Hat Surge and Penticton Debuts

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) today unveiled its Week 16 edition of the CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott for the 2025-26 season.

The Chicoutimi Saguenéens (28-6-3-2) held No. 1 for a second straight week after a perfect 2-0-0-0 showing that featured back-to-back 4-1 home wins and an 8-2 aggregate margin, with their league-leading defensive profile highlighted by a CHL-low 96 goals against and standout goaltending from Raphaël Précourt. Right behind them, the Everett Silvertips (31-5-2-1) stayed put at No. 2 for the second week in a row after sweeping a pair in Prince George, continuing a seven-week run of never dipping below second while remaining the CHL’s lone 30-win club and among the league’s stingiest teams defensively. Rounding out the top three, the Brantford Bulldogs (28-7-4-1) climbed back into No. 3 on the strength of three straight wins—including road statements over the defending Memorial Cup champion London Knights and the previously ranked Windsor Spitfires—powered by Minnesota Wild prospect Adam Benák’s six-point week as Brantford’s depth and returning World Juniors contingent helped drive a timely surge.

Further down the list, several surging clubs continued to make noise with upward movement and historic streaks. The Moncton Wildcats (28-7-2-1) climbed for a second consecutive week to No. 6 after a dominant 2-0-0-0 stretch in which they outscored opponents 16-2, extending their torrid run to 17 wins in their last 19 games ahead of a marquee showdown versus No. 1 Chicoutimi. The Medicine Hat Tigers (29-6-3-2) also rose for a second straight week to No. 7 after pushing their win streak to 17 games—tying a franchise record—and continuing a CHL-best 21-game point streak, all while captain Bryce Pickford (32 goals in 38 games) remains on a record-setting pace that could threaten both WHL and CHL single-season goal marks for a defenceman. And making the biggest “new face” splash, the Penticton Vees (24-9-4-3) broke into the CHL Top 10 for the first time in franchise history at No. 10, riding a nine-game win streak and a 13-1-1-0 run since early December behind New York Islanders prospect Jacob Kvasnicka’s explosive 10-point week.

For the 2025-26 season, fans can catch every game with FloHockey streaming the OHL and QMJHL, and Victory+ serving as the home of the WHL. FloHockey features full regular-season and playoff coverage for the OHL and QMJHL, while Victory+ offers free access to every WHL game along with playoffs and more.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 16
1. Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
2. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
3. Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
4. Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
5. Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
6. Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
7. Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
8. Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
9. Flint Firebirds (OHL)
10. Penticton Vees (WHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2025-26-chl-top-10-rankings-week-16.

The next rankings will be released the week of January 19, following the 17th week of regular-season action in the CHL’s Member Leagues.

OHL CUP TOP 10 RANKINGS – WEEK 7:JR. CANADIENS, UPPER CANADA CLIMB LATEST LIST

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Tuesday, January 13, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced the seventh edition of the OHL Cup Top-10 Rankings for the 2025-26 season, with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens and Upper Canada College both making gains. The Woodbridge Wolfpack are also up a spot, continuing a lengthy winning streak this past weekend. The GTHL’s Mississauga Senators are back in the Top-10 and the OMHA’s Barrie Colts are in the mix for the first time this season, sitting atop the OMHA East standings with a record of 22-3-0-2.

The weekly rankings, determined by a panel of scouts from OHL member teams, highlight the top teams competing for an opportunity to play in the 2026 OHL Cup hosted by the GTHL, which will showcase 25 teams featuring talent eligible for the OHL Priority Selection that will take place at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston on June 12-13, 2026.

OHL Cup Top-10 Rankings (Week 7)

RANKTEAMLAST WEEKWEEKS RANKED
1Little Caesars (USA AAA)17
2HoneyBaked (USA AAA)26
3Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)57
4Upper Canada College (Ontario Prep)77
5London Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE)37
6Hill Academy (Ontario Prep)67
7Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)44
8Woodbridge Wolfpack (USA AAA)95
9Mississauga Senators (GTHL)–4
10Barrie Colts (OMHA)–1

Honorable Mentions: Vaughan Kings (GTHL), Ajax-Pickering Raiders (OMHA), Credit River Capitals (OMHA), Quinte Red Devils (OMHA), Markham Majors (GTHL)

The 2026 OHL Cup will kick off with four wild card play-in matchups on Monday, March 30, 2026. All games will be held at Scotiabank Pond in Toronto before the Championship Final moves to the historic Mattamy Athletic Centre on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 2:00pm.

The OHL Cup has established itself as a premier development tournament, serving as a critical showcase for the next generation of hockey talent. More than 200 OHL Cup graduates have advanced to play in the OHL en route to the National Hockey League (NHL), including more than 110 players currently on NHL rosters.

Rankings will be updated weekly throughout the season as teams compete for positioning ahead of the 2026 OHL Cup tournament. More information on tournament qualification can be found here.

LEADERSHIP GROUPS ANNOUNCED FOR 2026 CONNOR MCDAVID OHL TOP PROSPECTS GAME PRESENTED BY ENBRIDGE GAS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Thursday, January 8, 2025) -The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced the captains and alternate captains for the 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game presented by Enbridge Gas, set to take place on Wednesday, January 14 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

The annual showcase features the OHL’s top eligible talent for the 2026 NHL Draft, divided into Team East and Team West.

Leading the Eastern Conference on home ice will be Adam Novotny of the host Peterborough Petes. Novotny will wear the ‘C’ in front of the Peterborough crowd, looking to guide the Eastern Conference squad to a second-straight victory.

Novotny enters the game fresh off an impressive international performance, having just captured a silver medal with Czechia at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. The dynamic winger has been an offensive force for the Petes this season, recording 19 goals and 35 points through 29 games, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the upcoming NHL Draft.

Joining Novotny as Alternate Captains are:

  • Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs): An A-rated prospect by NHL Central Scouting, Malhotra has established himself as one of the league’s premier playmakers, leading all OHL rookies in scoring with 50 points (18-32–50) in 37 games. The intelligent centreman recently represented the CHL at the CHL/USA Prospects Challenge and has drawn comparisons to NHL captains for his two-way maturity.
  • Ryan Roobroeck (Niagara IceDogs): A commanding physical presence at 6-foot-4, Roobroeck is a pure goal-scorer who found the back of the net 41 times during his sophomore OHL campaign. He brings championship pedigree to the leadership group, having previously helped Canada to a gold medal at the U18 World Championship. Roobroeck has 46 points (21-25–46) through 38 games for Niagara this season.
  • Brooks Rogowski (Oshawa Generals): Standing 6-foot-6, Rogowski is a daunting presence who has shown he can play both on the wing and down the middle in Oshawa. After guiding Detroit Catholic Central to a Michigan High School Hockey state title in 2024, he has quickly adapted to the OHL game, using his size and reach to become a disruptive two-way force for the Generals.

The Western Conference will be captained by Alessandro Di Iorio of the Sarnia Sting. He will lead a talented Western Conference group into Peterborough next Wednesday.

A former second overall OHL Draft pick, Di Iorio recently competed on the international stage as a member of Team CHL at the CHL/USA Prospects Challenge, where he scored a goal in the second game of the series. Recently named captain of the Sarnia Sting, the skilled centreman has posted 17 points (9-8–17) in 22 games this season and previously won gold with Canada at the U18 World Championship.

The leadership group for Team West is rounded out by Alternate Captains:

  • Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires): The 6-foot-5 power forward has been an intimidating force this season, operating at better than a point-per-game pace with 37 points (22-15–37) through his first 35 contests. A former first overall OHL Draft pick, Belchetz helped Canada claim bronze at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup this past summer and uses his massive frame to dominate puck battles.
  • Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds): One of the most dynamic offensive defencemen in the league, Reid recently recorded his first career hat-trick on Dec. 5th and sits second among all OHL blueliners in scoring with 37 points (15-22–37) over 32 games. His ability to drive play from the back-end has seen his draft stock rise significantly, earning him the opportunity to represent the United States at the recent IIHF World Junior Championship.
  • Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack): The reigning Emms Family Award winner as OHL Rookie of the Year, Mbuyi has avoided any sophomore slump by posting 47 points (23-25–48) over 40 games this season. A crafty offensive threat, he has proven to be a consistent scorer for the Attack, recording points in seven of his last eight contests.

The 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game presented by Enbridge Gas provides scouts and fans the opportunity to see the next wave of NHL talent competing head-to-head. The puck drops at 7:00 pm ET on Wednesday, January 14 in Peterborough. An extremely limited number of tickets are still available through Ticketmaster.

Watch the highly-anticipated event produced by YourTV Peterborough with Pete Dalliday and Scott Arnold on the call live for free across FloHockey‘s social media and YouTube channels and on local community stations across the province (check local listings). Tune in over the radio or stream the audio online through Freq 90.5 FM with Peterborough Petes play-by-play voice Stew Kernan over the airwaves alongside colour voice Chris Hardill.

2025-26 CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott: Saguenéens surge to No. 1 as Ottawa, Medicine Hat, Moncton & Windsor climb

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) today unveiled its Week 15 edition of the CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott for the 2025-26 season.

The Chicoutimi Saguenéens climbed for a fourth straight week and now sit No. 1 for the first time this season after going 4-1 since the break, led by the continued production of Alex Huang and Maxim Massé. Close behind, the Everett Silvertips slid to No. 2 after splitting four games, but they still pace the CHL with 29 wins and remain among the league’s most consistent clubs. Meanwhile, the Prince Albert Raiders are back at No. 3 for the third time in five weeks, riding a five-game win streak and outscoring opponents 29-5 in their four post-break victories. 

Further down the list, several clubs have surged into (or back into) the Top 10 on the strength of dominant stretches: the Ottawa 67’s have climbed for a second straight week to a season-best No. 4, fueled by a 10-game point streak (9-0-0-1) and seven of eight points to open the second half. In the WHL, the Medicine Hat Tigers continue to skyrocket, extending a CHL-best 19-game point streak (17-0-1-1) and a 15-game winning streak to move up another spot to a season-high No. 8. In the QMJHL, defending champion Moncton has opened the second half 4-0 and owns just one regulation loss in its last 17 to rise again, while the Windsor Spitfires have played their way back into the rankings on a five-game winning streak, vaulted by strong recent results and key roster reinforcements.

For the 2025-26 season, fans can catch every game with FloHockey streaming the OHL and QMJHL, and Victory+ serving as the home of the WHL. FloHockey features full regular-season and playoff coverage for the OHL and QMJHL, while Victory+ offers free access to every WHL game along with playoffs and more.

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 15
1. Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
2. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
3. Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
4. Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
5. Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
6. Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
7. Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
8. Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
9. Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
10. Flint Firebirds (OHL)

For information and details about each club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2025-26-chl-top-10-rankings-week-15.

The next rankings will be released the week of January 12, following the 16th week of regular-season action in the CHL’s Member Leagues.

CHL, OHL Mourn the Loss of David Branch, Transformative Commissioner and Hockey Visionary

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON – The Canadian Hockey League (CHL), the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the hockey community at large mourn the passing of former CHL President and longtime OHL Commissioner David Branch, who died Sunday at the age of 77.

A native of Bathurst, New Brunswick and long-time resident of Whitby, Ontario, Mr. Branch’s remarkable 45-year tenure as OHL Commissioner stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the development of young hockey players and the sport itself. From 1979 until his retirement in the summer of 2024, he guided the OHL through an era of unprecedented growth and progress, establishing standards that elevated junior hockey across the country.

His influence extended far beyond Ontario’s borders. As President of the Canadian Hockey League from 1996 to 2019, Mr. Branch helped shape the landscape of major junior hockey in Canada, working tirelessly to enhance player development, educational opportunities, and the overall junior hockey experience. Under his stewardship, the CHL strengthened its position as the world’s premier development league for young hockey talent.

Mr. Branch was a pioneer in prioritizing player welfare, championing initiatives that addressed player safety, mental health support, and educational advancement. His introduction of the OHL Scholarship Program ensured that players who passed through the league would have access to post-secondary education, recognizing that success in hockey should open doors both on and off the ice.

“This is a very sad day for a lot of people,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “David’s contributions to the game of hockey will continue to impact the game for generations. The entire league mourns the loss of a great leader and visionary who oversaw the growth and evolution of the Ontario Hockey League, always prioritizing the players and putting their experience first.”

“The CHL would not be the top development hockey league in the world without David Branch,” said Dan MacKenzie, President of the CHL. “His relentless focus on the player experience, both on and off the ice, will be his greatest legacy, as the game is safer, faster, and more skilled because of his influence and leadership. David had both the vision and the will to do big things, and he brought people together to get them done. He was a true builder, and his rightful place should be in the Hockey Hall of Fame one day.”

Mr. Branch’s contributions to Canadian hockey were formally recognized in 2016 when he received the Order of Hockey in Canada, an honour befitting someone who dedicated his life to building the game at the grassroots and development levels. In 2017, he was inducted into the Whitby Sports Hall of Fame as a builder, further underscoring his strong advocacy and support for local minor hockey. Mr. Branch also served on the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, lending his expertise and deep knowledge of the game to honour its greatest contributors.

His legacy has also been commemorated through awards that bear his name, highlighted by the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award (renamed in 2019–20) – the CHL’s top individual honour, presented annually to the player judged to be the most outstanding across the Canadian Hockey League – along with a number of OHL initiatives established in recognition of his career including the David Branch Leader of the Year Award, presented annually to the OHL’s top executive.

Throughout his career, Mr. Branch was known not only for his administrative acumen but for his genuine care for the young athletes under the OHL’s stewardship. He understood that junior hockey was about more than developing players for professional careers—it was about developing young people for life.

The hockey world has lost a true builder of the game, whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

The CHL and the OHL send thoughts and condolences to David’s family, most notably his partner Patsy, along with sons Barclay, Kyle and Wade and their wives as well as David’s grandchildren at this most difficult time.

Funeral arrangements and details regarding memorial services will be announced in the coming days.

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Friday, January 2, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Academic Players of the Month for December, recognizing dedication to excellence in the classroom.

East Division – Colin Feeley (Oshawa Generals)
Oshawa Generals defenceman Colin Feeley is the East Division Academic Player of the Month for December, posting a 98% average in Grade 12 studies through the University of Nebraska Online High School. Feeley excelled in a course load that includes English, British Literature, Calculus, Psychology and Government/Politics.

“Colin is an exceptionally dedicated student whose consistent hard work sets a high standard for academic excellence,” said Ryan Johnston, Head of Guidance at Maxwell Heights Secondary School in Oshawa. “His strong abilities and disciplined approach to learning have resulted in an outstanding performance across all subject areas.”

A 6-foot-7, 190Ib. left-shot defender from Wyckoff, New Jersey, Feeley has five assists through 26 games in his first OHL season. Signed by the Generals as a free agent over the summer, Feeley is a 17-year-old who spent last season as Salisbury School in Connecticut. He is committed to Harvard University (NCAA).

Central Division – Ryerson Edgar (Niagara IceDogs)
Niagara IceDogs rookie forward Ryerson Edgar is the Central Division Academic Player of the Month for December, achieving a 90% average in Grade 11 University-level studies at Governor Simcoe Secondary School. Edgar is currently studying Physics, English, Geography and is also doing a Co-op.

“Ryerson is an exceptional young man who has transitioned smoothly into the OHL, and has quickly figured out how to balance the rigors of academia and major junior hockey,” said IceDogs Academic Advisor Tim Tope. “He demonstrates maturity beyond his years and has earned the respect of his teachers at Governor Simcoe.”

Niagara’s first round (10th overall) pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection from the York-Simcoe Express AAA program, Edgar has produced 20 points (7-13–20) through his first 30 OHL contests. The Holland Landing, ON native won a gold medal with Canada Red at the World U17 Challenge, recording three points (1-2–3) in five games. Edgar burst onto the OHL scene, registering a hat-trick along with an assist in just his second game on Sept. 21st vs. Sudbury.

Midwest Division – Alexander Bilecki (Kitchener Rangers)
Kitchener Rangers sophomore blueliner Alexander Bilecki is the Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for December, posting straight-A’s in Grade 12 University-level studies through Blyth Academy Online. Bilecki is studying World History, Sports Analytics, Data Management and Advanced Functions.

“Alexander has worked hard to get ahead in acquiring his credits, and will graduate high school ahead of schedule,” said Rangers Academic Advisor Dave Tennant. “He has shown a tremendous ability to manage his studies and a full hockey schedule, while understanding the importance of giving back to his community. Alexander has managed his time to be able to give back in ways such as attending school visits, hospital visits, corporate sponsor events, and more. His academic interests are varied and he takes great pride in his work. He is always quick to assist others in the classroom and is very approachable. He has his sights set on pursuing a combined degree in business and sports management.”

A 17-year-old left-shot defenceman from Mississauga, ON, Bilecki has impressed with 15 points (6-9–15) over 36 games in his second OHL season. The former second round (31st overall) pick by the Rangers in 2024 also owns a plus/minus rating of plus-10. A 6-foot-2, 180Ib. rearguard, Bilecki has been selected to represent the Western Conference in the upcoming Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game on Jan. 14th in Peterborough. He’s currently a B-rated prospect by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.

West Division – Chase Gaughan (Sarnia Sting)
Sarnia Sting forward Chase Gaughan is the West Division Academic Player of the Month for December, achieving an average of 95% in Grade 12 studies through Commonwealth Charter Academy. Gaughan has excelled in Earth Sciences, Careers, English and Environmental Science courses.

“Chase quietly goes about his business on the ice and in the classroom,” said Sting Academic Advisor Todd Whitlock. “He is diligent in managing his time and keeping up with his studies, and this is reflective in his classroom performance. He is personable and friendly, and an active contributor to community partnerships. He is a fine example of a student-athlete and positive representative for the Sting organization.”

A 17-year-old right-wing from Annville, Pennsylvania, Gaughan has a goal and an assist through 21 games so far in 2025-26. The 6-foot-2, 167Ib. flank appeared in seven games with Sarnia in 2024-25, while spending most of the season with the GOHL’s Strathroy Rockets where he produced 15 points (7-8–15) over 43 contests. The Sting selected Gaughan with their third round (45th overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Palmyra Black Knights AAA program.

2025-26 OHL Academic Players of the Month

East Division
December – Colin Feeley (Oshawa Generals)
November – Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
October – Aiden O’Donnell (Oshawa Generals/Brantford Bulldogs)

Central Division
December – Ryerson Edgar (Niagara IceDogs)
November – Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion)
October – Cole Emerton (Barrie Colts)

Midwest Division
December – Alexander Bilecki (Kitchener Rangers)
November – Eric Frossard (Guelph Storm)
October – Lucas Ambrosio (Erie Otters)

West Division
December – Chase Gaughan (Sarnia Sting)
November – Dimian Zhilkin (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Thursday, January 1, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Month for December.

Player of the Month – Riley Patterson (Niagara IceDogs) – 11 GP, 9G, 10A, 19 PTS., +7
Leading the OHL with 19 points (9-10–19) over 11 games during the month of December, Vancouver Canucks prospect Riley Patterson of the Niagara IceDogs is the OHL Player of the Month. Patterson’s month featured seven different multi-point efforts, including a pair of overtime game-winners. He started things off with three points (1-2–3) on Dec. 5th at Brampton, scored 1:31 into overtime on Dec. 7th vs. North Bay, and registered his first of two two-goal efforts on Dec. 18th at Peterborough. His second included another overtime game-winner on Dec. 20th at home to the Sarnia Sting. Patterson put together another three-point outing (1-2–3) on Dec. 29th at Brampton as the IceDogs won by a score of 4-3.

A 19-year-old from Burlington, ON, Patterson sits fifth in OHL scoring with 45 points (21-24–45) over 33 games in this, his fourth OHL season. Acquired from the Barrie Colts last summer, Patterson has produced 166 points (75-91–166) over 165 career regular season games after entering the league as Flint’s third round (57th overall) pick in 2022. He was selected by Vancouver in the fourth round (125th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, and signed a three-year entry-level NHL contract with Vancouver on Sept. 21, 2025. Patterson is a former OHL Cup champion, winning as a member of the GTHL’s Mississauga Senators in 2022. Patterson also holds the distinction of being a former OJHL and CJHL Rookie of the Year, producing 73 points (30-43–73) over 52 games during the 2022-23 season with the North York Rangers.

Defenceman of the Month – Anthony Cristoforo (Windsor Spitfires) – 8 GP, 6G, 6A, 12 PTS., +8
Anthony Cristoforo of the Windsor Spitfires is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, producing 12 points (6-6–12) over eight games accompanied by a plus-8 rating. The fourth-year veteran had a point in all eight of his December outings, highlighted by a four-point effort (3-1–4) on Dec. 18th vs. Sault Ste. Marie, a game he happened to see some assignments up on the Spitfires’ forward ranks. He also put together a two-goal performance on Dec. 11th at Peterborough as the Spitfires won 6-3.

A 19-year-old from Woodbridge, ON, Cristoforo has produced at over a point-per-game in 2025-26, recording 33 points (10-23–33) over 30 contests with a plus-14 rating. The 6-foot, 180Ib. right-shot blueliner sits fifth in all-time points by a Spitfires defenceman with 172 (35-137–172) over 224 career regular season contests. Cristoforo was a first round (22nd overall) pick by Windsor in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.

Goaltender of the Month – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts) – 7 GP, 5-2-0-0, 1.86 GAA, .950 SV%, 246 SV
Kept busy during the month of December, Ben Hrebik of the Barrie Colts is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for a second straight month, going 5-2 with a 1.86 goals-against average and .950 save percentage while making 246 saves. Hrebik faced 40 or more shots four different times in December, winning in three of those four instances. He turned aside 39-of-40 shots on Dec. 6th in a 2-1 win at Kingston, made 42 saves on Dec. 13th as the Colts defeated the visiting Niagara IceDogs 2-1, and made an additional 45 saves on Dec. 28th as Barrie beat the North Bay Battalion 3-1 on the road.

A 19-year-old from Milton, ON, Hrebik has been the OHL’s busiest goaltender, making a league-leading 881 saves, resulting in an impressive .930 save percentage to go with a 2.61 goals-against average and 14-7-1-3 record over 25 games. The 6-foot-3, 204Ib. goaltender is in his second full OHL season after going 21-9-2-0 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .920 save percentage over 34 games in 2024-25. The Colts selected Hrebik in the ninth round (173rd overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.

Rookie of the Month – Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs) – 10 GP, 7G, 9A, 16 PTS., +6
Brantford Bulldogs centreman Caleb Malhotra is the OHL Rookie of the Month, producing 16 points (7-9–16) over 10 games accompanied by a plus/minus rating of plus-6. With the absence of teammates Jett Luchanko (Canada) and Adam Benak (Czechia) at the World Juniors, Malhotra was thrust into an elevated role and excelled, helping Brantford continue its strong first half, playing to a record of 25-6-4-1. The 6-foot-2, 182Ib. pivot recorded points in nine of his 10 December outings, headlined by three points (1-2–3) on Dec. 6th in a 7-2 win vs. North Bay. Malhotra scored twice on Dec. 19th in Kingston, netting the game-winner in a 4-2 triumph over the Frontenacs. He earned first star honours in Wednesday’s 5-2 win over the Erie Otters, recording a goal and an assist.

A 17-year-old from Toronto, Malhotra leads OHL rookies with 48 points (18-30–48) over 35 games. The son of former OHL and NHL forward Manny Malhotra was originally selected by the Kingston Frontenacs in the first round (8th overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, and was acquired by the Bulldogs on Sept. 12, 2024. He captained Team CHL in this year’s CHL/USA Prospects Challenge, and will represent the Western Conference in the 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game on Jan. 14th. Malhotra is an A-rated prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft. He is committed to Boston University (NCAA).

2025-26 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
December – Riley Patterson (Niagara IceDogs)
November – Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
October – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)

Defenceman of the Month:
December – Anthony Cristoforo (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Adam Jiricek (Brantford Bulldogs)
October – Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires)

Goaltender of the Month:
December – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
November – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
October – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)

Rookie of the Month:
December – Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
November – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR NOVEMBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Tuesday, December 2, 2025)- The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Month for November 2025.

Player of the Month – Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds) – 14 GP, 11G, 13A, 24 PTS., +5
New York Rangers prospect Nathan Aspinall of the Flint Firebirds is the OHL Player of the Month for November, leading the League with 24 points (11-13–24) as the Firebirds played to an impressive record of 11-2-0-1. Flint’s captain, Aspinall put together five separate performances of three points or more, scoring twice four different times. He set up linemate Jimmy Lombardi for the overtime winner on Nov. 14th at Brantford, capping-off a three-point performance in a 3-2 victory. Aspinall enters the month of December on an eight-game point streak as the Firebirds sit one point back of first place Windsor in the West Division.

A 6-foot-7, 207Ib. 19-year-old left wing from Markham, ON, Aspinall leads the Firebirds with 38 points (17-21–38) with a plus-10 rating over 24 games in this, his fourth OHL season. Selected by the Rangers in the fifth round (159th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Aspinall signed an NHL contract with the Blueshirts on Oct. 23rd, 2025. He was originally Flint’s second round (33rd overall) pick from the Markham Waxers U16 AAA program in 2022.

Also considered for the award this month, Utah Mammoth prospect Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts posted 19 points (6-13–19) over 11 games while Firebirds teammate Jimmy Lombardi, a prospect of the Los Angeles Kings, led the OHL with 13 goals along with 19 points over 13 November contests.

Defenceman of the Month – Adam Jiricek (Brantford Bulldogs) – 12 GP, 5G, 11A, 16 PTS., +3
St. Louis Blues prospect Adam Jiricek of the Brantford Bulldogs is the OHL Defenceman of the Month for November, leading OHL rearguards with 16 points (5-11–16) over 12 contests as the league-leading Bulldogs played to a mark of 8-2-2-0. Jiricek recorded a point in all but one of Brantford’s November matchups, carrying a 13-game point streak from Oct. 26th through Nov. 29th. His November performance was headlined by a three-point effort (2-1–3) on Nov. 15th in a 5-4 win over the Brampton Steelheads, a game in which Jiricek scored the winning goal. He scored three game-winning goals in the month of November.

A 19-year-old right-shot defenceman from Plzen, Czechia, Jiricek fourth in scoring among OHL defencemen with 26 points (9-17–26) over 23 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-15. The 6-foot-3, 185Ib. blueliner recorded 12 points (4-8–12) over 27 games with the Bulldogs after joining the team midway through last season. He was St. Louis’ first round (16th overall) pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and signed with the Blues on July 2, 2024. Jiricek was Brantford’s first round (19th overall) pick in the 2023 CHL Import Draft. He has represented Czechia at each of the past two World Junior tournaments, winning bronze both times.

Also considered for the award this month, New York Islanders prospect Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts scored nine goals in as many games, adding six assists for a total of 15 points. NHL Draft prospect Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds recorded 12 points (7-5–12) over 10 games.

Goaltender of the Month – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts) – 6-0-1-1, 1.97 GAA, .946 SV%, 282 SV
Ben Hrebik of the Barrie Colts is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for November, earning six wins along with a 1.97 goals-against average and .946 save percentage over eight contests. Hrebik kept busy, helping the Colts earn at least a point all eight times he was in the crease. He stopped fewer than 30 shots just twice with back-to-back 43-save efforts in wins over Peterborough and Sudbury on Nov. 13th and 15th. He rides a four-game winning streak into the month of December.

A 6-foot-3, 204Ib. 19-year-old goaltender from Milton, ON, Hrebik owns a record of 9-5-1-3 with a 2.90 goals-against average and .923 save percentage over 18 games this season. The former ninth round (173rd overall) pick by the Colts in 2022 had an impressive first full season in the OHL in 2024-25, going 21-9-2-0 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .920 save percentage over 34 regular season games before seeing seven games of playoff action. He attended NHL prospects camp with the Boston Bruins this past September.

Also considered for the award this month, Easton Rye of the Peterborough Petes played to an 8-2 mark with a 2.49 goals-against average and .929 save percentage, making 326 saves in November.

Rookie of the Month – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s) – 8-0-0-0, 1.98 GAA, .925 SV%, 1 SO, 197 SV
Ottawa 67’s netminder Ryder Fetterolf is the OHL Rookie of the Month for November, posting an undefeated 8-0 record along with a 1.98 goals-against average and .925 save percentage with one shutout. Fetterolf continued his impressive play into November, starting the month with a shutout of the Oshawa Generals on Nov. 2nd. He’s helped the 67’s climb the standings to within three points of first place Brantford in the East Division. Fetterolf carries a nine-game winning streak into the month of December that dates back to Oct. 29th.

A 17-year-old from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Fetterolf owns the league’s second-lowest goals-against average of 2.04 while going 13-2-1-0 with a .922 save percentage and two shutouts through 16 games this season. He’s also a perfect 4-for-4 in shootout scenarios. The 67’s signed Fetterolf as an undrafted free agent over the offseason after he spent 2024-25 at Gilmour Academy located in Gates Mills, Ohio. He is eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft and committed to Penn State University (NCAA).

Also considered for the award this month, NHL Draft prospect Caleb Malhotra of the Brantford Bulldogs recorded 13 points (5-8–13) over 11 games.
 

2025-26 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
November – Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
October – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)

Defenceman of the Month:
November – Adam Jiricek (Brantford Bulldogs)
October – Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires)

Goaltender of the Month:
November – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
October – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)

Rookie of the Month:
November – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR NOV. 24-30, 2025

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, December 1, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, November 30, 2025.


Wolves’ Kieron Walton Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Winnipeg Jets prospect Kieron Walton is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week for the second time this season, scoring four goals while adding three assists for seven points over three games.

Walton started the week with his fourth multi-goal performance of the season, scoring twice while adding an assist as the Wolves doubled-up the visiting Barrie Colts 6-3 on Friday. He set-up Artyom Gonchar’s game-tying goal midway through the second period on Saturday in Brampton before scoring the unassisted overtime winner with 24 seconds remaining. Walton closed out the week with a goal and an assist on Sunday in Guelph as the Wolves dropped a 6-2 decision. He carries a 10-game point streak into the week.

A 6-foot-6, 227Ib. left wing from Toronto, Walton sits among the OHL’s top point producers with 35 (17-18–35) over 22 games this season. His 140 shots on goal lead the OHL. Walton was selected by Winnipeg in the sixth round (187th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, and signed with the Jets on Apr. 7, 2025. He appeared in four games with the AHL’s Manitoba Moose last season, recording an assist. Over 199 career regular season games, Walton has recorded 81 goals, 102 assists and 183 points since being Sudbury’s second round (28th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.

2025-26 Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 22-28: Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 6-12: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 13-19: Adam Benak (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 20-26: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Harry Nansi (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 3-9: Alex Kostov (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 10-16: Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)


Steelheads’ Zach Bowen Named Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week

Zach Bowen of the Brampton Steelheads is the Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .959 save percentage.

Bowen turned aside 70 of the 73 shots sent his way, helping the Steelheads earn a pair of wins. He made 36 saves on Wednesday night in Erie, earning second star recognition as the Steelheads beat the Otters 5-2. Bowen was a force at home on Friday, picking up first star honours by making 34 saves as the Steelheads handed the first place Brantford Bulldogs their first regulation loss of the season in a 2-1 final.

A 20 year-old from Kanata, ON, Bowen has been among the OHL’s busiest goaltenders this season with a record of 11-9-1-1 with a 3.27 goals-against average and .892 save percentage over 22 games. The 6-foot-2, 190Ib. veteran is in his fourth OHL season, having compiled a record of 44-47-6-4 with a 3.60 goals-against average and .895 save percentage over 110 games between London, Peterborough and Brampton. He was originally a fourth round (77th overall) pick by the London Knights in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.

2025-26 Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Jason Schaubel (Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 22-28: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
Oct. 6-12: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 13-19: Patrick Quinlan (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 20-26: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights)
Nov. 3-9: Matthew Minchak (Kingston Frontenacs)
Nov. 10-16: Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
Nov. 17-23: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 24-30: Zach Bowen (Brampton Steelheads)


Spirit’s Levi Harper Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Saginaw Spirit defenceman Levi Harper is the OHL Rookie of the Week, posting four assists over three games.

Harper recorded two helpers in Wednesday’s 5-4 loss to the Flint Firebirds, added one on Friday in London as the Spirit defeated the Knights 4-2 and tacked on one more in Saturday’s 8-5 loss to the Knights in Saginaw.

A 17-year-old defenceman from Tampa, Florida, Harper leads OHL rookie blueliners with 24 points (6-18–24) over 27 games. The 5-foot-11, 170Ib. right-shot blueliner was selected by Saginaw in the third round (52nd overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection after spending 2024-25 with the Shattuck St. Mary’s 16U AAA program. He is committed to the University of Minnesota (NCAA), and not NHL Draft eligible until 2027.

2025-26 OHL Rookie of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Sept. 22-28: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 6-12: Jaxon Cover (London Knights)
Oct. 13-19: Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 20-26: Jaakko Wycisk (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 3-9: Easton Walos (Sarnia Sting)
Nov. 10-16: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 17-23: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit)


Greyhounds Prospect William Camputaro Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Soo Greyhounds prospect William Camputaro of the St. Thomas Stars is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, going 2-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and .950 save percentage.

Camputaro stopped 76 of the 80 shots sent his direction, helping the Stars stay in the thick of things in the GOHL’s Western Conference. He made 35 saves on Thursday night in Hamilton, stopping 15-of-16 in the third period as the Stars beat the Kilty B’s by a score of 5-2. He was back in the crease on Friday in St. Thomas, making 41 saves as the Stars defeated the Komoka Kings 5-2.

A 17-year-old from Toronto, Camputaro is 3-1 through four games with St. Thomas this season, owning a 1.52 goals-against average and .961 save percentage. The 6-foot-6, 212Ib. netminder spent the 2024-25 season with the OJHL’s St. Michael’s Buzzers, posting a record of 7-6-2 with a 2.76 goals-against average and .903 save percentage in 19 games. The Greyhounds selected Camputaro in the fourth round (80th overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 program. He is committed to the University of Nebraska Omaha (NCAA).

2025-26 GOHL Prospect of the Week
Sept. 10-21: Brendan Gerber (Elmira Sugar Kings/London Knights)
Sept. 22-28: Alex Forrest (Cambridge RedHawks/Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Liam Edgcumbe (Pelham Panthers/Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 6-12: Caden Bell (St. Catharines Falcons/Niagara IceDogs)
Oct. 13-19: Reed Straus (Elmira Sugar Kings/Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 20-26: Gensen Geldart (Chatham Maroons/Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Lyndon Cabral (Listowel Cyclones/Erie Otters)
Nov. 2-9: Jake Ritson (Strathroy Rockets/London Knights)
Nov. 10-16: Ulysses Lombardi (Waterloo Siskins/Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Alex Campeau (London Nationals/London Knights)
Nov. 24-30: William Camputaro (St. Thomas Stars/Soo Greyhounds)