Canadian Hockey League Announces Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Fans can now vote from February 10–March 10 at contests.chl.ca/CHL50vote to help shape the final No. 1–50 ranking & enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Kelowna for the Championship Game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, plus access to a special event with CHL/NHL alumni

TORONTO, ON – As part of its 50th anniversary season, the Canadian Hockey League today proudly announced the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years (since 1975–76), recognizing the most influential and accomplished alumni from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) over the past half century (see complete alphabetical list below).

Featuring a remarkable collection of Hockey Hall of Fame inductees alongside former and active NHL players, the Top 50 list celebrates five decades of excellence across the CHL Member Leagues. Spanning every position, the list includes six goaltenders, nine defencemen, and 35 forwards.

Reflecting that three-league foundation, the Top 50 list includes 20 players who appeared in the OHL, 18 in the QMJHL, and 13 in the WHL. In total, 31 of the 50 honourees have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, while 11 remain active in the NHL. The group also features 20 Olympic champions, underscoring the CHL’s legacy on the international stage. Championship pedigree runs throughout the list, as 15 members were crowned Memorial Cup, and 34 went on to win the Stanley Cup — combining for 81 Stanley Cup Championships over their playing careers.

“This list reflects the extraordinary legacy of the CHL and the impact our players have had on the game at every level,” said Dan MacKenzie, President of the CHL. “From generational talents to championship leaders, the Top 50 celebrates five decades of excellence — players who defined eras in the WHL, OHL and QMJHL, and who include Hockey Hall of Famers, legends of the game, and active NHL stars who continue to shine on hockey’s biggest stages.”

Fan Vote Now Open
Alongside today’s unveiling, the CHL has launched a fan vote running from February 10 through March 10, inviting fans to submit their Top 10 from the Top 50 list at contests.chl.ca/CHL50vote. Fan voting will help inform how the CHL ultimately ranks the players 1–50, with the final ranking to be revealed later this spring. Fans who participate will also have a chance to win one (1) trip for two (2) to Kelowna, BC, including transportation, hotel accommodations, and tickets to the Championship Game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, plus access to a special event featuring CHL/NHL alumni from the CHL’s Top 50 list.

Top 50 CHL Players of the Last 50 Years (Alphabetical)
Bedard, Connor / Forward (WHL, Regina Pats – 2020-23) / (Chicago Blackhawks – 2023-Present)
Bergeron, Patrice / Forward (QMJHL, Acadie-Bathurst Titan – 2001-03) / (Boston Bruins – 2003-2023)
Bossy, Mike / Forward (QMJHL, Laval National – 1972-1977) / (New York Islanders – 1977-1987)
Bourque, Ray / Defenceman (QMJHL, Trois-Rivières Draveurs & Sorel/Verdun Blackhawks – 1976-79) / (Boston Bruins & Colorado Avalanche – 1979-2001)
Brodeur, Martin / Goaltender (QMJHL, St. Hyacinthe Laser – 1989-92) / (New Jersey Devils & St. Louis Blues – 1991-2015)
Carbonneau, Guy / Forward (QMJHL, Chicoutimi Saguenéens – 1976-80) / (Montréal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues & Dallas Stars – 1980-2000)
Coffey, Paul / Defenceman (OHL, Kingston Canadians, Soo Greyhounds & Kitchener Rangers) / (Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers, Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Carolina Hurricanes & Boston Bruins – 1980-2001)
Crosby, Sidney / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 2003-05) / (Pittsburgh Penguins – 2005-Present)
Doughty, Drew / Defenceman (OHL, Guelph Storm – 2005-08) / (Los Angeles Kings – 2008-Present)
Draisaitl, Leon / Forward (WHL, Prince Albert Raiders & Kelowna Rockets – 2012-15) / (Edmonton Oilers – 2015-Present)
Ferraro, Ray / Forward (WHL, Portland Winterhawks & Brandon Wheat Kings – 1982-84) / (Hartford Whalers, New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, Atlanta Thrashers, St. Louis Blues – 1984-2002)
Fleury, Marc-André / Goaltender (QMJHL, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles – 2000-04) / (Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks & Minnesota Wild – 2003-25)
Francis, Ron / Forward (OHL, Soo Greyhounds – 1980-82) / (Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes & Toronto Maple Leafs – 1981-2004)
Fuhr, Grant / Goaltender (WHL, Victoria Cougars – 1979-81) / (Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues & Calgary Flames – 1981-2000)
Gilmour, Doug / Forward (OHL & QMJHL, Cornwall Royals – 1980-83) / (St. Louis Blues, Calgary Flames, Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres & Montreal Canadiens – 1983-2003)
Gretzky, Wayne / Forward (OHL, Peterborough Petes & Soo Greyhounds – 1977-78) / (Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues & New York Rangers – 1979-99)
Hall, Taylor / Forward (OHL, Windsor Spitfires – 2007-10) / (Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Arizona Coyotes, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks & Carolina Hurricanes – 2010-Present)
Hawerchuk, Dale / Forward (QMJHL – 1979-80, Cornwall Royals) / (Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, St. Louis Blues & Philadelphia Flyers – 1981-97)
Iginla, Jarome / Forward (WHL, Kamloops Blazers – 1993-96) / (Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche & Los Angeles Kings – 1995-2017)
Kane, Patrick / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 2006-07) / (Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers & Detroit Red Wings – 2007-Present)
Lafontaine, Pat / Forward (QMJHL, Verdun Juniors – 1982-83) / (New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres & New York Rangers – 1983-98)
Lecavalier, Vincent / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 1996-98) / (Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers & Los Angeles Kings – 1998-2016)
Lemieux, Mario / Forward (QMJHL, Laval Voisins – 1981-84) / (Pittsburgh Penguins – 1984-97 & 2000-06)
Lindros, Eric / Forward (OHL, Oshawa Generals – 1989-92) / (Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs & Dallas Stars – 1992-2007)
Luongo, Roberto / Goaltender (QMJHL, Val-d’Or Foreurs & Acadie-Bathurst Titan – 1995-99) / (New York Islanders, Florida Panthers & Vancouver Canucks – 1999-2019)
MacInnis, Al / Defenceman (OHL, Kitchener Rangers – 1980-83) / (Calgary Flames & St. Louis Blues – 1981-2004)
MacKinnon, Nathan / Forward (QMJHL, Halifax Mooseheads – 2011-13) / (Colorado Avalanche – 2013-Present)
McDavid, Connor / Forward (OHL, Erie Otters – 2012-15) / (Edmonton Oilers – 2015-Present)
Modano, Mike / Forward (WHL, Prince Albert Raiders – 1986-89) / (Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars & Detroit Red Wings – 1988-2011)
Murphy, Larry / Defenceman (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1978-80) / (Los Angeles Kings, Washington Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs & Detroit Red Wings – 1980-2001)
Neely, Cam / Forward (WHL, Portland Winterhawks – 1982-84) / (Vancouver Canucks & Boston Bruins – 1983-96)
Niedermayer, Scott / Defenceman (WHL, Kamloops Blazers – 1989-92) / (New Jersey Devils & Anaheim Ducks – 1991-2010)
Perry, Corey / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 2001-05) / (Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers & Los Angeles Kings – 2006-Present)
Price, Carey / Goaltender (WHL, Tri-City Americans – 2002-07) / (Montreal Canadiens – 2007-22)
Pronger, Chris – Defenceman (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1991-93) / (Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, & Philadelphia Flyers – 1993-2012)
Propp, Brian / Forward (WHL, Brandon Wheat Kings – 1976-79) / (Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars & Hartford Whalers – 1979-94)
Recchi, Mark / Forward (WHL, New Westminster Bruins & Kamloops Blazers – 1984-88) / (Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Tampa Bay Lightning & Boston Bruins – 1989-2011)
Richards, Brad / Forward (QMJHL, Rimouski Océanic – 1997-2000) / (Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks & Detroit Red Wings – 2000-16)
Robitaille, Luc / Forward (QMJHL, Hull Olympiques – 1983-86) / (Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers & Detroit Red Wings – 1986-2006)
Roy, Patrick / Goaltender (QMJHL, Granby Bisons – 1982-85) / (Montreal Canadiens & Colorado Avalanche – 1984-2003)
Sakic, Joe / Forward (WHL, Lethbridge/Swift Current Broncos – 1985-88) / (Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche – 1988-2009)
Savard, Denis / Forward (QMJHL, Montreal Juniors – 1977-80) / (Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens & Tampa Bay Lightning – 1980-97)
Shanahan, Brendan / Forward (OHL, London Knights – 1985-87) / (New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Hartford Whalers, Detroit Red Wings & New York Rangers – 1987-2009)
Smith, Bobby / Forward (OHL, Ottawa 67’s – 1975-78) / (Minnesota North Stars & Montreal Canadiens – 1978-93)
Stamkos, Steven / Forward (OHL, Sarnia Sting – 2006-08) / (Tampa Bay Lightning & Nashville Predators – 2008-Present)
Stevens, Scott / Defenceman (OHL, Kitchener Rangers – 1980-82) / (Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues & New Jersey Devils – 1982-2004)
Tavares, John / Forward (OHL, Oshawa Generals & London Knights – 2005-09) / (New York Islanders & Toronto Maple Leafs – 2009-Present)
Thornton, Joe / Forward (OHL, Soo Greyhounds – 1995-97) / (Boston Bruins, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers – 1997-2022)
Weber, Shea / Defenceman (WHL, Kelowna Rockets – 2001-05) / (Nashville Predators & Montreal Canadiens – 2005-21)
Yzerman, Steve / Forward (OHL, Peterborough Petes – 1981-83) / (Detroit Red Wings – 1983-2006)

The CHL’s Top 50 Players were selected by a panel of more than 40 media members who submitted ranked 1–50 ballots guided by a weighted evaluation framework designed to ensure consistency across eras. Panelists considered a player’s impact beyond the CHL — including NHL and international success, major awards and championships, and Hall of Fame recognition — alongside on-ice achievement in the Member Leagues, reflecting what players accomplished during their time in the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL through production, individual honours, team success, and sustained dominance. Selections also accounted for historical significance, recognizing milestones, era-defining influence, generational impact, and lasting contributions to CHL history.

To be eligible, players must have competed in at least one full season in the WHL, OHL, or QMJHL during the CHL’s 50-year history beginning in 1975–76; for players who competed in 1975–76 and also played prior to that season, their entire CHL career was considered when evaluating on-ice accomplishments.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR JAN. 26-FEB. 1, 2026

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, February 2, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Week for regular season games ending Sunday, February 1, 2026.


Firebirds’ Kevin He Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Winnipeg Jets prospect Kevin He is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording three goals, three assists and six points over a pair of contests.

He scored in Friday’s game against visiting Barrie, one the Firebirds let get away late in a 6-5 overtime loss. Saturday brought a season-high five-point showing including his third shorthanded goal of the season as part of a two goal, three assist effort in a 6-3 Firebirds win over visiting Sarnia. The five-point effort gave He 20 points (8-12–20) over 13 games since being acquired by Flint on Dec. 28th.

A 19-year-old from Nobleton, ON, He has produced 51 points (22-29–51) over 41 games in this, his fourth OHL season. The 6-foot, 182Ib. left-wing owns career totals that include 110 goals, 103 assists and 213 points over 233 career regular season games since being Niagara’s second round (25th overall) pick in 2022. He joins Windsor’s Liam Greentree as the only active OHL player with more than 100 career goals and 100 career assists. He, who was born in Beijing, China, was chosen by the Winnipeg Jets in the fourth round (109th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, becoming the first Chinese-born player ever selected in the NHL Draft. The Jets inked him to a three-year entry-level NHL contract on Dec. 17, 2024.

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)
Dec. 1-7: Alex McLean (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 8-14: Christopher Brown (Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 15-21: Alex Pharand (Sudbury Wolves)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Egor Barabanov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 5-11: Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts)
Jan. 12-18: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 19-25: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Kevin He (Flint Firebirds)




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 for the second time this season, helping the Steelheads secure five of a possible six points with a 1.99 goals-against average and .934 save percentage while turning aside 85 shots.

Bowen made 21 saves on Friday night in Guelph, backstopping the Steelheads to a 4-1 win over the Storm. He continued to help Brampton’s pursuit of a playoff spot on Saturday at home to Oshawa, stopping 31-of-32 in a 2-1 win over the Generals. Bowen wrapped-up the weekend with a 33-save performance in Sunday’s 4-3 overtime road loss to the Generals, helping the Trout earn a point despite their being outshot 37-24.

A 20-year-old from Kanata, ON, Bowen is 14-19-2-1 with a 3.35 goals-against average and .891 save percentage over 36 games in his fourth OHL season. Formerly London’s fourth round (77th overall) pick in 2022, he’s played to a career mark of 47-57-7-4 with a 3.59 goals-against average and .894 save percentage with two shutouts in 124 career regular season games between London, Peterborough and Brampton. Bowen was voted to the OHL’s first all-rookie team with London in 2022-23, the same season he claimed the F.W. Dinty Moore Trophy for the league’s lowest rookie goals-against average.

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)
Dec. 1-7: Vladislav Yermolenko (Niagara IceDogs)
Dec. 8-14: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Dec. 15-21: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)
Jan. 5-11: Zachary Jovanovski (Guelph Storm)
Jan. 12-18: Matthew Humphries (Oshawa Generals)
Jan. 19-25: Carter George (Soo Greyhounds)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Zach Bowen (Brampton Steelheads)




Steelheads’ Keaton Ardagh Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Brampton Steelheads forward Keaton Ardagh is the OHL Rookie of the Week, scoring three times while adding an assist as the Steelheads collected five of a possible six points.

Ardagh started the weekend with his third multi-goal performance of the season, scoring twice as Brampton defeated the Guelph Storm 4-1 on the road. He picked up a primary assist on a Nathan Amidovski goal in Saturday’s 2-1 win over visiting Oshawa, and scored his 11th goal of the season on Sunday as the Trout fell 4-3 on the road in Oshawa.

A 16-year-old from Clarington, ON, Ardagh has posted 15 points (11-4–15) and has yet to take a penalty through 45 games in his first OHL season after being chosen by the Steelheads in the first round (15th overall) from the OHL Cup champion Toronto Jr. Canadiens AAA program. The 6-foot, 163Ib. right-wing recorded 45 points (24-21–45) over 28 games in his U16 AAA campaign, adding six points (3-3–6) over seven outings at the OHL Cup.

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)
Dec. 1-7: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Dec. 8-14: Robin Kuzma (Kingston Frontenacs
Dec. 15-21: Caleb Mitchell (London Knights)
Dec. 28-Jan. 4: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 5-11: Charlie Murata (Flint Firebirds)
Jan. 12-18: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 19-25: Ryerson Edgar (Niagara IceDogs)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Keaton Ardagh (Brampton Steelheads)




Spirit Prospect Sammy DiBlasi Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Saginaw Spirit prospect Sammy DiBlasi of the Chatham Maroons is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .959 save percentage.

DiBlasi turned away 13 shots on Friday in Sarnia as the Maroons skated to a lopsided win over the Legionnaires. He came out with a strong performance back at home on Saturday, turning aside 34-of-35 shots in a 6-1 win over the Strathroy Rockets.

A freshly-turned 19-year-old from Saginaw, DiBlasi is 14-4-1-2 with a 2.98 goals-against average and .912 save percentage over 25 games in his second season with Chatham. Saginaw’s ninth round (176th overall) pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, DiBlasi appeared in two games with the Spirit in 2024-25. He owns a career mark of 26-6-4-2 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .916 save percentage over 42 career GOHL contests with Chatham.

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)
Dec. 1-7: Ian Robinson (Port Colborne Sailors/Kitchener Rangers)
Dec. 8-14: Kalyn McQueen (Cambridge RedHawks/Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 15-21: Alexander Lisi (Chatham Maroons/Owen Sound Attack)
Dec. 29- Jan. 4: James Elliott (St. Catharines Falcons/Soo Greyhounds)
Jan. 5-11: Vaughn Barr (St. Marys Lincolns/Erie Otters)
Jan. 12-18: David Buchman (Brantford Titans/Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 19-25: Myles Dunn (St. Thomas Stars/Sarnia Sting)
Jan. 26-Feb. 1: Sammy DiBlasi (Chatham Maroons/Saginaw Spirit)

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, February 2, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Month for January.

Player of the Month – Jack Pridham (Kitchener Rangers) – 11 GP, 8G, 12A, 20 PTS., +14
Leading the OHL in scoring during the month of January, Chicago Blackhawks prospect Jack Pridham of the Kitchener Rangers has been named OHL Player of the Month after recording 20 points (8-12–20) over 11 games. Pridham recorded at least one point in 10 of his 11 January outings, highlighted by six multi-point performances as the Rangers surged to the top of the Western Conference standings.

Pridham’s most notable effort came on Jan. 15th when he recorded a hat-trick and an assist in a Rangers victory over the Saginaw Spirit. He now leads Kitchener in scoring this season with 62 points (31-31–62) over 46 games.

A 20-year-old overage forward from Stouffville, ON, Pridham was selected in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks. He is in his fourth OHL season and has played a key role in Kitchener finishing January as the number one seed in the Western Conference. Selected by the Rangers in the ninth round (177th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Pridham has 116 points (58-58–116) over 94 regular season games with Kitchener.

Defenceman of the Month – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts) –-11 GP, 3G, 11A, 14 PTS., +13
New York Islanders prospect Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts has been named OHL Defenceman of the Month after producing 14 points (3-11–14) over 11 games in January while posting a plus-13 rating. He recorded four multi-point performances during the month and continues to rank among the league’s most productive blueliners.

Through 38 games this season, Aitcheson ranks third among OHL defencemen in scoring with 46 points (22-24–46), while his 22 goals lead all defenders across the league. His plus-32 rating stands as the OHL’s second-best, while he is also tied for third in team scoring for the Colts.

A 19-year-old from Toronto, ON, Aitcheson was selected 17th overall by the New York Islanders in the first round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles. His 57 career goals are the most by a blueliner in Barrie Colts franchise history. His 147 points (57-90–147) are 11 shy of Brandt Clarke, who holds the Colts franchise mark for career points by a defenceman. Aitcheson won a bronze medal with Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.

Goaltender of the Month – Carter George (Soo Greyhounds) – 7 GP, 5-1-0-1, 1.71 GAA, .925 SV%, 2 SO, 147 SV
Los Angeles Kings prospect Carter George of the Soo Greyhounds has been named OHL Goaltender of the Month after posting a 5-1-0-1 record in January, accompanied by a league-best 1.71 goals-against average and .925 save percentage over more than 400 minutes of action. He was the only OHL goaltender to record two shutouts during the month and the only netminder to play over 400 minutes with a save percentage above .925.

George also made history on Jan. 21st, scoring his second career goal in the Ontario Hockey League. With the tally, he became the first goaltender in OHL history to score two goals, and just the second goaltender in CHL history to accomplish the feat, joining François Brassard of the QMJHL. The goal also marked the second by a goaltender in Soo Greyhounds franchise history.

Acquired from the Owen Sound Attack on Jan. 7th, George began his Greyhounds tenure with five straight wins, two shutouts, and a goal in his first five games with the club. A 19-year-old from Thunder Bay, ON, George is 15-10-0-4 on the season with a 2.72 goals-against average and .906 save percentage through 30 games. Now in his fourth OHL season, George owns a career record of 62-56-9-10 with a 3.14 goals-against average and .909 save percentage with seven shutouts over 143 regular season contests. He was selected in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. Internationally, George has represented Canada at the World Juniors in back-to-back years, winning a bronze medal in early January in Minnesota.

Rookie of the Month – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) – 12 GP, 8G, 11A, 19 PTS., +3
NHL Draft eligible Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Klepov has been named OHL Rookie of the Month for January after leading all rookies with 19 points (8-11–19) over 12 games. Klepov finished the month six points clear of the next closest rookie scorer, recording five multi-point performances and points in nine of his 12 outings.

The 17-year-old posted two four-point games during the month, doing so on Jan. 4th and again on Jan. 17th as the Spirit continued to gain traction in the Western Conference. He was also a standout at the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game on Jan. 14th in Peterborough, earning Connor McDavid 97 Award MVP honours with his goal and two assists for the victorious Western Conference.

A native of Deerfield Beach, FL, Klepov is playing his first OHL season after being selected by Saginaw in the first round (35th overall) of the 2025 CHL Import Draft. He is a top prospect eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo and earns Rookie of the Month honours for the second time this season, having also received the award in October. Klepov, who won gold with the United States at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, is currently the 16th ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings.

2025-26 OHL Performers of the Month

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

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

Goaltender of the Month:
January – Carter George (Soo Greyhounds)
December – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
November – Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
October – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)

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

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Friday, January 30, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Academic Players of the Month for January, recognizing dedication to excellence in the classroom.

East Division – Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Draft eligible Ottawa 67’s forward Thomas Vandenberg is the East Division Academic Player of the Month for January, posting an 87% average in Grade 12 studies through Blyth Academy The Glebe. Vandenberg is currently studying Advanced Functions, English, World Cultures and Challenge and Change in Society.

“I continue to be impressed by Thomas’ academic efforts and results,” said 67’s Academic Advisor Eileen Duffin. “Thomas has earned the January Academic award as a result of his continued hard work, persistence and positive attitude. He sets an excellent example for fellow Ottawa 67’s student athletes.”

A 17-year-old centreman from Nepean, Vandenberg is enjoying a successful first season in the OHL, recording 17 goals, 17 assists and 34 points over 37 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-14. He recently represented the Eastern Conference in the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game held in Peterborough. Ottawa’s fifth round (93rd overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Vandenberg spent 2024-25 with the USHL’s Cedar Rapids Roughriders, recording 18 points (9-9–18) in 55 games. He is the 25th-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Vandenberg is committed to Providence College (NCAA).

Central Division – Brady Smith (Sudbury Wolves)
First-year Sudbury Wolves defenceman Brady Smith is the Central Division Academic Player of the Month for January, excelling in Grade 12 studies through St. Charles College in Sudbury.

“Brady is a true student-athlete,” said Academic Advisor Jennifer Humphrey. “He’s really demonstrated a great ability to balance academic requirements with a busy hockey career. He has worked very hard and is deserving of this honour.”

A 17-year-old defenceman from Oshawa, ON, Smith has recorded one assist over 20 games with the Wolves this season. The 6-foot-2, 194Ib. left-shot blueliner was the club’s sixth round (111th overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Oshawa Minor Generals AAA program. He recorded 13 points (2-11–13) over 51 games with the OJHL’s Stouffville Spirit in 2024-25.

Midwest Division – Braidy Wassilyn (London Knights)
NHL Draft eligible London Knights forward Braidy Wassilyn is the Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for January, securing high marks through his Grade 12 studies, including an 88% mark in English.

“Braidy consistently demonstrates an excellent work ethic and a high level of independence in completing his academic responsibilities,” said Knights Academic Advisor Wendy Glover. “He completes all assigned work thoroughly and on time without requiring reminders, and he approaches his studies with maturity and focus. Braidy is respectful, responsible, and thoughtful in his interactions, and his intelligence and kindness are evident in everything he does. He is a pleasure to work with and sets a strong example for others. We are proud of him in London!”

A 17-year-old from Campbellville, ON, Wassilyn has recorded 15 goals, 17 assists and 32 points over 40 games between the Knights and the Niagara IceDogs this season. A former fourth overall pick by Niagara in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Wassilyn recently suited up for the Western Conference in the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game. He’s the 50th-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Wassilyn is committed to Boston University (NCAA).

West Division – Harris Pangretitsch (Soo Greyhounds)
NHL Draft prospect Harris Pangretitsch of the Soo Greyhounds is the West Division Academic Player of the Month for January, posting a 95% average in Grade 12 studies through Superior Heights Secondary School. Pangretitsch is currently studying Canadian & International Politics, Business Leadership, Accounting and Advanced Math Functions.

“Harris has emerged from an academically strong group of teammates and to date has demonstrated an outstanding academic performance with an overall average of 95%,” said Greyhounds Academic Advisor Mary-Lynne Lukenda. “His 98% grade in Advanced Math Functions could not be achieved without sound time management, study skills and commitment. He has also played very well for the Greyhounds this season and exemplifies the ‘best of both worlds’ philosophy of the OHL.”

A 17-year-old defenceman from Toronto, Pangretitsch has a goal, nine assists and 10 points over 45 games on the blue line, to go with a plus-10 rating. The 6-foot-4, 216Ib. Pangretitsch spent the 2024-25 at Choate Rosemary Hall located in Wallingford, Connecticut, recording 15 points (6-9–15) over 25 games. The Greyhounds selected Pangretitsch in the fourth round (82nd overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros AAA program. He is the 152nd-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings.

2025-26 OHL Academic Players of the Month

East Division
January – Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
December – Colin Feeley (Oshawa Generals)
November – Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
October – Aiden O’Donnell (Oshawa Generals/Brantford Bulldogs)

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

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

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

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.