Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Saginaw Spirit forward Nic Sima is this year’s recipient of the Ted Baker Teammate of the Year Award. The annual honour is presented to the player deemed the best teammate based off selfless play, on and off-ice leadership as a mentor and role model to other players, as well as a commitment and dedication to his team.
A fourth-year veteran, Sima was a unifying presence in the Spirit dressing room while also leading the team in the community as a finalist for the OHL Humanitarian of the Year Award. A reliable teammate who was a regular provider of rides to and from the Dow Event Center for younger Spirit players while also leading in the planning an execution of inclusive team functions, Sima brought the Spirit together.
“Receiving this award is a huge honor and it means more to me than I can put into words,” said Sima. “I’m incredibly thankful to my teammates, coaches, and everyone in the organization, as none of this would be possible without them. Coming to the rink every day and being around this group of guys is something I never take for granted. We’ve built something special together and I’m just really proud to be a part of it.”
A 20-year-old from Mississauga, Ont., Sima completed his fourth OHL season with career-highs that included 18 goals, 17 assists and 35 points over 62 games. The former second round (37th overall) pick by North Bay in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection won a Memorial Cup with the Spirit last June, and has accumulated 36 goals, 44 assists and 80 points over 242 career OHL contests.
“Nic has filled such a key role for our group ever since he arrived in Saginaw and is a heartbeat of our team,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “There is a noticeable difference in our players when Nic is in the room, and he is crucial in making sure his teammates understand the messaging from our coaching staff. He does everything asked of him, helping create a great culture within our organization. His work effort is unmatched and it’s no surprise he put up career numbers this season. We’re also incredibly proud of the leadership role he took off the ice with his charitable work in the community. No one is more deserving of this award.”
The Ted Baker Teammate of the Year Award was first announced in August 2023 following the retirement of OHL Vice President Ted Baker, who served 35 years with the Ontario Hockey League. The award celebrates the achievements of a player deemed to have demonstrated the same qualities of teamwork, selflessness and dedication demonstrated by Ted throughout his time with the league.
Hunter Brzustewicz of the Kitchener Rangers was the league’s inaugural award winner in 2023-24.
Sima will be formally presented with the Ted Baker Teammate of the Year Award at the OHL’s Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 11 at The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is excited to announce the field for the 2025 Memorial Cup in Rimouski, Québec. In addition to the host Rimouski Océanic from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), the 105th edition of the Memorial Cup, which is scheduled from May 22 – June 1, will feature the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League (WHL), the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the Moncton Wildcats of the QMJHL.
The latter three teams each won their respective league title over the last week to help secure their place in the Memorial Cup. This year’s Memorial Cup field includes London, the CHL’s most decorated team of the 21st century with six OHL championships, alongside Medicine Hat, Moncton, and Rimouski, who each boast three league titles, tied for the third-most since 2000. The first game of the 2025 Memorial Cup is set for Friday, May 23 at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT between the host Océanic and the WHL champion Medicine Hat Tigers. The complete schedule for the 2025 Memorial Cup can be found below.
The 2025 Memorial Cup marks the return of the CHL’s championship event to the province of Québec for the first time in 10 years. Every game of the 2025 Memorial Cup will air on TSN and RDS in Canada and be available via live stream on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In addition to full coverage in Canada on TSN and RDS, the 2025 Memorial Cup will air in the United States on NHL Network and be available to stream live for free on Victory+ for viewers outside of Canada.
Host – Rimouski Océanic (fifth Memorial Cup appearance – 2000, 2005, 2009, 2015 & 2025; one Memorial Cup title – 2000)
The Rimouski Océanic are set to make their fifth Memorial Cup appearance after an impressive run to the 2025 QMJHL Championship Series, where they ultimately fell to the Moncton Wildcats in six games. With Joël Perrault behind the bench, the Rimouski Océanic enjoyed one of their most successful regular seasons in recent memory, finishing with 46 wins – their highest total since 2014–15. Rimouski’s .750 points percentage ranked among the elite in the CHL, trailing only Moncton (.844) and London (.824), and underscoring their status as one of the league’s top contenders throughout the 2024–25 campaign.
Throughout the playoffs, the Océanic displayed a high-powered offensive attack, spearheaded by captain Jacob Mathieu (17G-14A in 23 GP), whose QMJHL-best 17 goals and 31 points over 23 postseason games underscored his vital role in the team’s deep run. Supporting him was an elite trio featuring 2023–24 QMJHL MVP and Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford (7G-11A in 12 GP), 2024–25 QMJHL scoring champion Jonathan Fauchon (7G-15A in 23 GP), and Anaheim Ducks prospect Alexandre Blais (5G-15A in 23 GP), giving Rimouski one of the most dangerous forward groups in the league. On the back end, 2021 QMJHL champion Pier-Olivier Roy (3G-16A in 21 GP) brings stability and veteran leadership to the blue line. Meanwhile, goaltender Mathis Langevin (12-4 record, 1.57 GAA, .944 SV%, 3 SO in 18 GP) has turned in strong performances between the pipes, keeping Rimouski competitive in every matchup. Langevin finished the 2025 QMJHL Playoffs with a .944 save percentage, the second-highest mark in QMJHL postseason history (min. 480 minutes played). As Rimouski prepares to host the 2025 Memorial Cup for the second time, the 2024-25 Océanic aim to capture the franchise’s second title while celebrating the 25th anniversary of their historic 2000 championship team—an iconic squad later named a finalist for CHL Team of the Century.
WHL Champions – Medicine Hat Tigers (sixth Memorial Cup appearance – 1973, 1987, 1988, 2004, 2007 & 2025; two Memorial Cup titles – 1987 & 1988)
The Medicine Hat Tigers are set to make their sixth Memorial Cup appearance—and first since 2007 – after capturing the 2025 Ed Chynoweth Cup with a decisive 4-1 series win over the Spokane Chiefs. Since the tournament adopted its round-robin format in 1972, the Tigers’ six appearances rank tied for the fifth-most over that span and sit just one behind Kamloops for the most by a WHL club. Guided by veteran head coach Willie Desjardins, who secured his third WHL title, the Tigers dominated the playoffs with a 16-2 record, including sweeps of Prince Albert and Lethbridge, and a decisive five-game triumph over Spokane in the WHL Championship Series.
A significant contributor to the Medicine Hat Tigers’ successful playoff run has been 17-year-old forward Gavin McKenna (9G-29A in 16 GP), a leading prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, who led all CHL players in playoff scoring with an average of 2.38 points per game. Although McKenna’s impressive 54-game point streak concluded during the WHL Championship Series, his sustained offensive excellence played a key role in propelling the Tigers to the Memorial Cup. Team captain Oasiz Wiesblatt (14G-15A in 18 GP) continued his outstanding performance by recording 29 points in the postseason, building upon a regular season in which he surpassed the 100-point threshold and providing strong veteran leadership. Defenceman and 2025 NHL Draft prospect Bryce Pickford (13G-11A in 18 GP) set a new benchmark with 13 goals – the highest total by a CHL defenceman in a single postseason since 2000 – entering the Memorial Cup with an eight-game goal-scoring streak. Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Cayden Lindstrom (2G-2A in 4 GP) and Calgary Flames prospect Andrew Basha (2G-3A in 5 GP) made a timely return to the Tigers’ lineup, providing a significant boost and delivering key performances during the WHL Championship Series. As one of eight NHL prospects on their roster, Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Harrison Meneghin proved to be a reliable presence in net for the Tigers, finishing the playoffs with a 14-1 record, a 2.35 goals-against average, a .906 save percentage, and three shutouts, earning WHL Playoff MVP honors. With two Memorial Cup titles already to their name (1987 & 1988), the Tigers look to end the WHL’s decade-long championship drought and add to their storied legacy in Rimouski.
OHL Champions – London Knights (seventh Memorial Cup appearance – 2005, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2024 & 2025; two Memorial Cup titles – 2005 & 2016)
Set to make their seventh appearance at the CHL’s championship event since 2005, the London Knights have earned more Memorial Cup berths than any other club over the past two decades. Led by head coach Dale Hunter – who now co-holds the record for most J. Ross Robertson Cup wins by a coach with five – the Knights stormed through the 2025 OHL Playoffs, sweeping Owen Sound, Erie, and Kitchener before defeating Oshawa 4-1 in the final. With a commanding 16-1 playoff record, London became the first CHL team in 12 years to repeat as league champions and the first OHL team in 27 years to capture the title with one loss or fewer. With a CHL-best 12 NHL prospects found on their roster, the Knights got key contributions from Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan (13G-26A in 17 GP) and San Jose Sharks prospect Kasper Haltunnen (15G-6A in 17 GP) throughout the postseason.
Easton Cowan led all OHL skaters with 39 points during the 2025 OHL Playoffs, while Kasper Halttunen netted 15 goals – including nine in the OHL Championship Series — en route to becoming the first European ever to win the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Playoffs MVP. Halttunen is just the fourth European to earn playoff MVP honours across the CHL. On the back end, San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson (9G-22A in 17 GP) added 31 points, tying for the seventh-most by a CHL defenceman in a single postseason since 2000. Between the pipes, 20-year-old Austin Elliott wrapped up a near-perfect season with a 2.46 GAA and .906 save percentage, having suffered just two losses in 53 starts between London and Saskatoon. Captain Denver Barkey (9G-11A in 10 GP) returned to the lineup for Game 5 of the OHL Championship Series, providing a crucial boost of leadership and energy that helped guide the London Knights to victory. The Knights also posted their second straight 50-win season, finishing with 55 wins — their highest total since 2004–05 – and back-to-back 100-point campaigns for the first time in 11 years. Set to be just the seventh team since 2000 to make consecutive appearances at a Memorial Cup, the Knights will be in search of their third Memorial Cup title in Rimouski after falling just short in the 2024 final to the Saginaw Spirit.
QMJHL Champions – Moncton Wildcats (third Memorial Cup appearance – 2006, 2010 & 2025)
The 2024–25 Moncton Wildcats have delivered one of the most impressive seasons in QMJHL history, culminating in a hard-fought six-game series victory over the Memorial Cup host Rimouski Océanic to capture the Gilles-Courteau Trophy, boasting an outstanding 16-3 postseason record. With this triumph, Moncton will make its third Memorial Cup appearance in franchise history, having secured its third QMJHL championship – tying for the most titles won by any club in the league over the past 25 years. Under the guidance of head coach Gardiner MacDougall, the Wildcats posted a 53-9-2-0 record, earning an .844 points percentage – the eighth-best in QMJHL history. Their defensive prowess was particularly notable, allowing just 144 goals over the season, the fewest in the CHL, and averaging only 2.25 goals against per game, ranking fifth all-time in the QMJHL.
Offensively, the Wildcats are led by 2025 NHL Draft prospect Caleb Desnoyers (9G-21A in 19 GP), who registered 35 goals and 84 points during the regular season, and continued his stellar play in the playoffs with nine goals and a team-leading 30 points. By being named the 2025 QMJHL Playoffs MVP, Desnoyers became the first NHL Draft-eligible prospect to win the Guy Lafleur Trophy since Jonathan Drouin achieved the feat with the Halifax Mooseheads in 2013. The Moncton Wildcats boast seven NHL Draft prospects, led by St. Louis Blues prospect Juraj Pekarcik (9G-12A in 19 GP) and Calgary Flames prospect Étienne Morin (2G-18A in 19 GP), who played pivotal roles in the team’s championship run in the QMJHL. In net, the tandem of veteran Mathis Rousseau (8-2 record, 2.53 GAA, .915 SV%, 1 SO in 11 GP) and Detroit Red Wings prospect Rudy Guimond (8-1 record, 2.25 GAA, .916 SV%, 1 SO in 9 GP) provided stability. Although his remarkable streak ultimately came to an end in the QMJHL Championship Series, Guimond set a QMJHL record with 24 consecutive wins in decisions during the 2024–25 season – spanning both the regular season and playoffs – the longest such run in league history. The Moncton Wildcats enter the 2025 Memorial Cup as the only team in the field still seeking their first title, with London, Rimouski, and Medicine Hat all having previously lifted the storied trophy.
SCHEDULE Round-Robin – Game 1 – Friday, May 23 – Medicine Hat vs. Rimouski (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 2 – Saturday, May 24 – Moncton vs. London (6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 3 – Sunday, May 25 – Rimouski vs. London (6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 4 – Monday, May 26 – Moncton vs. Medicine Hat (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 5 – Tuesday, May 27 – London vs. Medicine Hat (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 6 – Wednesday, May 28 – Rimouski vs. Moncton (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Tie-Breaker (*if necessary) – Thursday, May 29 (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Semi-Final – Friday, May 30 (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT) Championship Final – Sunday, June 1 (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT)
London, ON – The London Knights are OHL champions for a second straight year, winning the 113th J. Ross Robertson Cup following a 5-2 win over the Oshawa Generals in Game 5 at Canada Life Place.
OHL Playoff MVP Kasper Halttunen scored his eighth and ninth goals of the Championship Series while Sam O’Reilly and Easton Cowan each had a goal and an assist as London outlasted Oshawa for a second straight year, hoisting the J. Ross Robertson Cup before a capacity crowd of 9,061.
“We’ve dreamt of this since day one and to do it in back-to-back years is a surreal feeling. It’s even better to do it on home ice,” said Knights captain Denver Barkey, who returned to the lineup from injury in Game 5. “It’s a great way to cap-off what we’ve built here in London and there’s one more thing to go win now.”
Landon Sim also scored for London while blueliner Sam Dickinson had a pair of primary assists and goaltender Austin Elliott stood tall in the crease, stopping 32-of-34.
“We’re a close-knit family here,” said Knights Head Coach Dale Hunter, who won his fifth J. Ross Robertson Cup to tie him for the most all-time with Leighton “Hap” Emms. “The kids enjoy playing and it’s easy to coach when they enjoy it. It’s been a real fun couple years here with these kids.”
The victory marks London’s sixth OHL championship in franchise history and the second instance in which they’ve won back-to-back following previous titles in 2024, 2016, 2013, 2012 and 2005.
The Knights finished the OHL Playoffs with a record of 16-1, becoming just the third team in league history to win the championship with one or fewer losses as they join the 1998 Guelph Storm (12-1) and 1988 Windsor Spitfires (12-0) in that department.
Easton Cowan finished as the top scorer of the 2025 OHL Playoffs, registering 39 points (13-26–39) over 17 games with a plus/minus rating of plus-25. Halttunen, who claimed the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Playoff MVP, recorded 21 points (15-6–21), nine of which came in the Championship Series. Halttunen’s nine Championship goals are the most since Belleville’s Jonathan Cheechoo, another San Jose Sharks prospect, tallied nine in 1999.
Knights captain Denver Barkey received the J. Ross Robertson Cup from OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford as the Knights, who eliminated Owen Sound, Erie, Kitchener and now Oshawa, travel to Rimouski, Quebec for the 2025 Memorial Cup that begins Friday, May 23rd.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Windsor Spitfires forward Liam Greentree is this year’s recipient of the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy.
Greentree was chosen for the award by a panel of accredited OHL media members, being recognized as the team captain that best exemplifies leadership on and off the ice, with a passion and dedication to the game of hockey in his community that Mickey demonstrated.
“I’m truly honoured to receive this award. It’s incredibly meaningful—not just for me personally, but for our entire organization.” said Greentree. “This recognition is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and passion that every member of our team brings every day. I may be the one accepting this, but it represents a collective effort. I’m proud to lead such an inspiring team, and even prouder to stand alongside them. This award belongs to all of us.”
Greentree had a tremendous third season in Windsor, his second as the team’s captain. He produced 49 goals, 70 assists and 119 points over 64 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-55. His 306 shots on goal were the second-most in the OHL as he helped guide the Spitfires from the bottom of the standings to the top of the West Division with 45 wins and 96 points.
“Liam is a great teammate and leader.” said Spitfires General Manager Bill Bowler. “We are delighted as an organization for Liam to be recognized for this award as it is a credit to his character. Here in Windsor we all know what Mickey meant to our organization and Liam proudly wears the ‘C’ and has tried to replicate what Mickey embodied.”
Noted as the first Spitfire to arrive at the rink and the last one to leave on game days, Greentree has become known for his friendly disposition toward fans and staff at the WFCU Centre. He played a lead role in the club’s involvement with the Goodfellows paper drive, a local organization that raises funds for individuals in the community needing assistance with food and housing.
“Liam is as genuine and humble as they come,” added Bowler. “He represents the Spitfires organization with class and we’re very proud of his accomplishments.”
A 19-year-old from Oshawa, Ont., Greentree was selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the first round (26th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft. The 6-foot-3, 216Ib. left-wing has amassed 254 points (110-144–254) over 189 career regular season games with the Spitfires, and was an OHL first all-rookie team member in 2022-23 followed by a third team all-star in 2023-24. He won a World Under-18 Hockey Championship gold medal with Canada in 2024. Greentree was Windsor’s second round (34th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.
The Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy is presented in honour of former Windsor Spitfires captain and Calgary Flames prospect Mickey Renaud, who tragically passed away at the age of 19 on February 18, 2008 due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an underlying heart condition. Renaud, from Tecumseh, Ont., played three seasons with the Spitfires from 2005-08, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s hockey community.
Greentree follows Ryan Ellis (2010-11) as the second Spitfires player to win the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy. Recent winners have included Braden Haché of the Saginaw Spirit (2023-24), Nolan Dillingham of the Sarnia Sting (2022-23) and Mark Woolley of the Owen Sound Attack (2021-22).
Nomination forms are submitted annually by OHL General Managers on behalf of their individual team captains. The selection committee consists of a panel of four, representing media from each OHL division.
Greentree will be formally presented with the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy at the OHL Awards Ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
For a complete list of past award winners, click here.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, May 11, 2025.
Knights’ Easton Cowan Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan of the London Knights is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording two goals, three assists and five points in two contests.
Cowan helped the Knights bounce back from a Game 1 loss to the Oshawa Generals with a five-point performance on Saturday, scoring twice and adding three assists in a 5-2 win. The first star effort tied him for the franchise record for most playoff points in Knights history with 89. His second career five-point effort in an OHL Championship Final contest makes him the latest player to do so since Mark Scheifele of the 2013 Barrie Colts.
A soon-to-be 20-year-old from Mount Brydges, Ont., the 2024 Red Tilson Trophy winner sits second among all post-season scorers with 32 points (10-22-32) in 14 games. Cowan recorded 69 points (29-40-69) in 46 regular season games and has totaled 220 points (84-136-220) over 175 career regular season contests. Originally selected 25th overall by the Knights in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, the 2024 OHL champion has added 89 points (29-60-89) in 57 career playoff games. Cowan was the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 28th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.
2024-25 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs: May 5 – May 11: Easton Cowan (London Knights) Apr. 28 – May 4: Luca Marrelli (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 21 – Apr. 27: Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 14 – Apr. 20: Colby Barlow (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 7 – Apr. 13: Denver Barkey (London Knights) Mar. 31 – Apr. 6: Owen Griffin (Oshawa Generals) Mar. 24 – Mar. 30: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Knights’ Austin Elliott Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Austin Elliott of the London Knights is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the fourth time this season, playing to a 1-1 record along with a 2.54 goals-against average and .914 save percentage.
Elliott made 53 saves over two games in the OHL Championship Series last week, splitting the series 1-1. He stopped 22 of 25 shots in a 4-2 loss to Oshawa on Thursday, marking his first playoff loss and first defeat since February 2nd. The 6-foot-1, 189lb. goaltender bounced back on Saturday, turning aside 31 shots to earn third star honours in a 5-2 win to even the series.
A soon-to-be 21-year-old from Strathmore, Alberta, Elliott posted an outstanding regular season with a 32-1-0-0 record, three shutouts, a 2.10 goals-against average, and a .924 save percentage. He’s remained nearly perfect in the playoffs, going 13-1 with one shutout, a 2.34 goals-against average, and a .906 save percentage. The Knights acquired the overage netminder from the Barrie Colts, who had claimed him off CHL waivers in early October. Elliott joined the OHL after beginning his junior career with the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades.
2024-25 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs: May 5 – May 11: Austin Elliott (London Knights) Apr. 28 – May 4: Austin Elliott (London Knights) Apr. 21 – Apr. 27: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 14 – Apr. 20: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Apr. 7 – Apr. 13: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts) Mar. 31 – Apr. 6: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Mar. 24 – Mar. 30: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs)
2024-25 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season: Mar. 17 – Mar. 23: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion) Mar. 10 – Mar. 16: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs) Mar. 3 – Mar. 9: Austin Elliott (London Knights) Feb. 14 – Mar. 2: Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds) Feb. 17 – Feb. 23: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion) Feb. 10 – Feb. 16: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s) Feb. 3 – Feb. 9: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs) Jan. 27 – Feb. 2: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) Jan. 20 – Jan. 26: Austin Elliott (London Knights) Jan. 13 – Jan. 19: Nolan Lalonde (Soo Greyhounds) Jan. 6 – Jan. 12: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes) Dec. 30 – Jan. 5: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Dec. 28 – Dec. 29: Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts) Dec. 16 – Dec. 22: Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds) Dec. 9 – Dec. 15: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs) Dec. 2 – Dec. 8: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Nov. 25 – Dec. 1: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights) Nov. 18 – Nov. 24: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Nov. 11 – Nov. 17: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) Nov. 4 – Nov. 10: Andrew Oke (Saginaw Spirit) Oct. 28 – Nov. 3: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Oct. 21 – Oct. 27: Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds) Oct. 14 – Oct. 20: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires) Oct. 7 – Oct. 13: Finn Marshall (Sudbury Wolves) Sept. 30 – Oct. 6: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires) Sept. 25 – Sept. 29: Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads)
Knights’ Noah Read Named OHL Rookie of the Week
NHL Draft eligible London Knights forward Noah Read is the OHL Rookie of the Week for the second time this season, registering an assist in two games played.
Read tallied a helper to earn third star honours on Thursday night as the London Knights fell 4-2 to the Oshawa Generals in Game 1 of the OHL Championship Series. Read helped the Knights open the scoring, setting up linemate Rene Van Bommel for the opening goal of the series.
Selected by London in the 10th round (188th overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Southern Tier Admirals U16 AAA program, the St. Catharines, Ont. native registered 10 goals, 16 assists, and 26 points in 45 regular season contests. In 14 post-season matchups, the 18-year-old has recorded four goals, two assists and six points. He spent the 2023-24 season with the St. Catharines Falcons of the GOJHL, tallying 38 points in 48 games played.
2024-25 OHL Rookies of the Week – Playoffs: May 6 – May 11: Noah Read (London Knights) Apr. 28 – May 5: Cameron Arquette (Kitchener Rangers) Apr. 21 – Apr. 27: Simon Wang (Oshawa Generals) Apr. 14 – Apr. 20: Cameron Arquette (Kitchener Rangers) Apr. 7 – Apr. 13: Andrew Robinson (Windsor Spitfires) March. 31 – Apr. 6: Noah Read (London Knights) March. 24 – March. 30: Ethan Garden (Windsor Spitfires)
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that NHL Draft eligible Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa is this year’s recipient of the Red Tilson Trophy, presented annually to the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player as voted by the League’s accredited writers and broadcasters.
Misa led the OHL with 134 points (62-72–134) over 65 games, the most the league has seen since London’s Patrick Kane in 2007. He had multi-point outings in 46 of his 65 contests, with his 134 points tied with John Tavares (2006-07) for the most by an under-18 player since the year 2000. Misa’s 62 goals are tied for the third-most by a draft eligible skater in OHL history.
“I am honoured to receive the Red Tilson Trophy,” said Misa. “None of this would be possible without the hard work of my teammates, the dedication of my coaches and support staff, or the support of my family. I am grateful to each of them, as well as the voters and the league for this recognition.”
Misa’s season was highlighted by a 28-game point streak that spanned from December 29th through March 6th, one that featured 28 goals and 63 points. He becomes the first player in Saginaw Spirit history to win the Red Tilson Trophy, and is the OHL’s first to claim the honour alongside the Eddie Powers Trophy as leading scorer and Bobby Smith Trophy as top scholastic player in the same season since Dave Simpson of the 1981-82 London Knights.
“In my mind, it was never in doubt that Michael was the most outstanding player in our league this season,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “He carried our team on his back when we needed him the most and we’re so proud of him. For him to do all of this in his draft year is even more impressive–people forget he was only 17 to start the year.”
An 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Misa was chosen by Saginaw as an exceptional status first overall OHL Priority Selection choice in 2022 after winning an OHL Cup title with the Mississauga Senators, a tournament that saw him set a new scoring record for the annual showcase. Misa was the OHL’s Rookie of the Year in 2023 and helped the Spirit hoist the Memorial Cup on home ice last summer. He is the Spirit’s all-time leading scorer with 265 points (113-152–265) over 177 career regular season games, and enters the 2025 NHL Draft as the second-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings released on April 15th.
The Red Tilson Trophy is the most prestigious individual award presented by the Ontario Hockey League. First presented in 1945, the trophy is named in honour of Albert “Red” Tilson, who was killed in action in Europe during World War II. Tilson was the OHA scoring champion for the 1942-43 season after scoring 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 22 games with the Oshawa Generals.
Accredited media were asked to select their top choice from a ballot consisting of 20 team-nominated representatives. Misa was this year’s Red Tilson Trophy voting frontrunner with 50 percent of the vote followed by Nick Lardis of the Brantford Bulldogs who garnered 26 percent.
Other recent winners of the Red Tilson Trophy have included London Knights forward Easton Cowan (2023-24), a pair of Windsor Spitfires forwards in Matthew Maggio (2022-23) and Wyatt Johnston (2021-22) along with Ottawa 67’s forward Marco Rossi (2019-20) and Sudbury Wolves goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (2018-19).
Misa will be formally recognized with the Red Tilson Trophy at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony to be held at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
For a complete history of OHL award winners, click here.
TORONTO, ON — With six teams remaining in the battle for their league title and a coveted spot in the 2025 Memorial Cup, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is pleased to announce full broadcast coverage of the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) Championship Series (see the full schedule for each Championship Series below), which begin tonight with Game 1 of the OHL final between the London Knights and Oshawa Generals at 7 p.m. ET.
Fans across Canada can catch all the action of the 2025 WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series live on TSN, with RDS providing complete French-language coverage of the QMJHL final. In addition to being able to watch games across TSN and RDS channels, viewers can also stream the action live on TSN.ca and the TSN app, as well as RDS.ca and the RDS app. What’s more, fans can also stream both the OHL and QMJHL Championship Series live and on-demand with a subscription on CHL TV.
For audiences outside of Canada, every game of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series will be available live to stream for free on Victory+, ensuring fans worldwide can follow the road to the 2025 Memorial Cup in Rimouski.
Ultimately, the WHL and OHL champions will join the host Rimouski Océanic at the 2025 Memorial Cup, along with the Moncton Wildcats, who secured their place by advancing to the QMJHL Championship Series opposite Rimouski. Scheduled from May 22 – June 1 in Rimouski, Québec, every game of the 2025 Memorial Cup will air on TSN and RDS in Canada and be available via live stream on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In addition to full coverage in Canada on TSN and RDS, the 2025 Memorial Cup will be available to stream live for free on Victory+ for viewers outside of Canada.
2025 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien Ed Chynoweth Cup
Medicine Hat Tigers (five Memorial Cup Appearances – 1973, 1987, 1988, 2004 & 2007; two Memorial Cup titles – 1987 & 1988) Spokane Chiefs (three Memorial Cup Appearances – 1991, 1998 & 2008; two Memorial Cup titles – 1991 & 2008)
In the WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien, the Medicine Hat Tigers and Spokane Chiefs will meet in the league final for the first time in WHL history. When the series starts tomorrow, the Tigers will be in search of their sixth Ed Chynoweth Cup, while the Chiefs are aiming to win their third WHL championship title in franchise history. Set to play in their first WHL Championship Series in 18 years, Medicine Hat comes into the final having won 22 of their last 23 games dating back to February 22. A big part of their success has undoubtedly come from Tigers forward and top 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna (8G-27A in 13 GP), who is currently on a 53-game point streak that dates back to November 6 and stands as the longest point streak in the CHL since 2000. Additionally, Medicine Hat has enjoyed key contributions from its captain Oasiz Wiesblatt (14G-12A in 13 GP; currently on a 25-game point streak), defenceman Bryce Pickford (7G-10A in 13 GP), and Nashville Predators prospect Tanner Molendyk (3G-11A in 13 GP), who is one of eight NHL prospects on the Tigers roster. Meanwhile, back in the WHL final for the first time since winning both an Ed Chynoweth Cup and Memorial Cup in 2008, the Chiefs come into this series as the highest-scoring club in the CHL this postseason with a 5.67 goals-per-game average. The latter can partially be attributed to continued strong play of Spokane’s top line of Washington Capitals prospect Andrew Cristall (20G-17A in 14 GP), Seattle Kraken prospect Berkly Catton (8G-28A in 15 GP), and 21-year-old forward Shea Van Olm (11G-16A in 15 GP), who have combined for 39 goals and 100 points through the first three rounds of the WHL Playoffs. Entering the WHL Championship Series, Cristall leads the CHL with 20 goals and 37 points this postseason and sits just four goals shy of tying the WHL record for most goals scored in a single playoff run (24).
2025 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien Schedule Game 1^ – Friday, May 9 – Spokane at Medicine Hat – 7 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. PT (on TSN1) Game 2^ – Sunday, May 11 – Spokane at Medicine Hat – 7 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/3) Game 3^ – Tuesday, May 13 – Medicine Hat at Spokane – 8 p.m. MT / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/3) Game 4^ – Wednesday, May 14 – Medicine Hat at Spokane – 8 p.m. MT / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/3) Game 5*^ – Friday, May 16 – Medicine Hat at Spokane – 8 p.m. MT / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/5) Game 6*^ – Sunday, May 18 – Spokane at Medicine Hat – 7 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/3) Game 7*^ – Monday, May 19 – Spokane at Medicine Hat – 7 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/3)
* = if necessary ^ = Live on TSN (Canada) & Victory+ (U.S. & World) Channel designations are subject to change
2025 OHL Championship Series Ross Robertson Cup
London Knights (six Memorial Cup appearances – 2005, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016 & 2025; two Memorial Cup titles – 2005 & 2016) Oshawa Generals (12 Memorial Cup appearances – 1938, 1939, 1940, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1966, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1997 & 2015; five Memorial Cup titles – 1939, 1940, 1944, 1990 & 2015)
For the first time in 70 years, the J. Ross Robertson Cup will be contested by the same two teams in back-to-back years, marking a rare rematch in OHL/OHA history. The London Knights will look to replicate last year’s success as they prepare to face the Oshawa Generals once again in a highly anticipated showdown for the 2025 OHL Championship. Coming into this series as the only CHL team with a perfect 12-0 record this postseason, the Knights’ current 12-game winning streak ranks tied for the seventh longest postseason win streak in CHL history. Boasting a dozen NHL Draft prospects, the 2024-25 OHL regular season champion London Knights have been powered through the 2025 OHL Playoffs by Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan, who leads the team with 27 points (8G-19A) in just 12 games. London’s deep lineup also includes San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson, who is coming off a historic 91-point regular season and has added 23 points (7G-16A) in the playoffs, as well as 20-year-old goaltender Austin Elliott. Undefeated this postseason with a 12-0 record, Elliott owns a 2.31 goals-against average, a .904 save percentage, and one shutout – extending a near-perfect season that’s seen him lose just once in 48 starts split between the Knights and the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades. On the other side, the Oshawa Generals match London’s star power with four NHL first-round picks, led by Winnipeg Jets prospect Colby Barlow (13G-16A in 16 GP) and Anaheim Ducks prospect Beckett Sennecke (12G-15A in 13 GP). Coming into the OHL Championship Series, Oshawa defenceman and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Luca Marrelli (6G-25A in 16 GP) leads all OHL skaters with 31 points this postseason. Marrelli is one of just eight defencemen in the CHL to top 30 points in a single postseason since 2000, joining the names like Kris Letang (Val-d’Or Foreurs), Ryan Ellis (Windsor Spitfires), and Denton Mateychuk (Moose Jaw Warriors) to achieve this feat in the 21st century. In search of a sixth J. Ross Robertson Cup, the Knights are aiming to be the first CHL club to repeat as league champions since they themselves achieved the feat in 2013, while Oshawa will be looking to add to the record 13 OHL Championship titles that they have accrued over their franchise’s history.
2025 OHL Championship Series Schedule Game 1^ – Thursday, May 8 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN 3) Game 2^ – Saturday, May 10 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN 3/4) Game 3^ – Monday, May 12 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/4/5) Game 4^ – Tuesday, May 13 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN 3/4) Game 5*^ – Thursday, May 15 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN 1/4) Game 6*^ – Saturday, May 17 – London at Oshawa – Time To Be Confirmed (on TSN 3) Game 7*^ – Monday, May 19 – Oshawa at London – Time To Be Confirmed (on TSN 1/3)
* = if necessary ^ = Live on TSN (Canada), CHL TV (Canada) & Victory+ (U.S. & World) Channel designations are subject to change
2025 QMJHL Championship Series Gilles-Courteau Trophy
Moncton Wildcats (set to make a third Memorial Cup appearance – 2006, 2010 & 2025) Rimouski Océanic (set to make a fifth Memorial Cup appearance – 2000, 2005, 2009, 2015 & 2025; one Memorial Cup title – 2000)
Half the field for the 2025 Memorial Cup is set, but before those tournament-bound clubs turn their focus to the CHL’s championship event, they will both aim to capture the Gilles-Courteau Trophy and become QMJHL Champions. By defeating the Shawinigan Cataractes in Game 7 on Tuesday night, the Rimouski Océanic became the first Memorial Cup host to reach their league final in six years, while the Moncton Wildcats are making their first appearance in the QMJHL Championship Series in 15 years. Having finished the season as the CHL’s No. 1-ranked team and as the 2024-25 QMJHL regular season champions, the Moncton Wildcats enter the QMJHL final having won 27 of their last 28 games dating back to February 13. Top 2025 NHL Draft prospect Caleb Desnoyers (9G-15A in 13 GP) has led the charge for Moncton as his 24 points in the playoffs are the most of any QMJHL skater this postseason. Boasting a QMJHL-best seven NHL prospects, the Moncton Wildcats have been propelled by standout performances from Utah Hockey Club prospect Gabe Smith (4G-13A in 13 GP) and Detroit Red Wings prospect Rudy Guimond (7-0 record, 2.00 GAA, .927 SV%, 1 SO in 7 GP). Guimond, a rookie netminder, remains unbeaten across both the regular season and playoffs with a perfect 23-0-0-0 record, making him the only CHL goaltender with six or more starts to remain undefeated in the 2024-25 campaign. On the other side, the Rimouski Océanic are appearing in their first QMJHL final in a decade, led by captain Jacob Mathieu (13G-11A in 17 GP), who currently tops the league in playoff goals. With 2023-24 QMJHL MVP and Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford (5G-6A in 6 GP), 2024-25 QMJHL scoring champion Jonathan Fauchon (3G-13A in 17 GP), and Anaheim Ducks prospect Alexandre Blais (5G-12A in 17 GP) also leading the charge, Rimouski enters the final with a potent offensive lineup. The Océanic are chasing their fourth Gilles-Courteau Trophy and aiming to become the first Memorial Cup host to also win their league title since the 2008 Kitchener Rangers. Meanwhile, the Wildcats will look to spoil Rimouski’s run and capture their third QMJHL championship title in franchise history.
2025 QMJHL Championship Series Schedule Game 1# – Saturday, May 10 – Rimouski at Moncton – 5 p.m. AT / 4 p.m. ET (on TSN4 & RDS) Game 2# – Sunday, May 11 – Rimouski at Moncton – 7 p.m. AT / 6 p.m. ET (on TSN1 & RDS) Game 3# – Wednesday, May 14 – Moncton at Rimouski – 8 p.m. AT / 7 p.m. ET (on TSN 1 & RDS2) Game 4# – Thursday, May 15 – Moncton at Rimouski – 8 p.m. AT / 7 p.m. ET (on TSN 3/5 & RDS) Game 5*# – Saturday, May 17 – Rimouski at Moncton – 7 p.m. AT / 6 p.m. ET (on TSN 1/3/4 & RDS2) Game 6*# – Monday, May 19 – Moncton at Rimouski – 2 p.m. AT / 1 p.m. ET (on TSN 3 & RDS2) Game 7*# – Tuesday, May 20 – Rimouski at Moncton – 7 p.m. AT / 6 p.m. ET (on TSN 3)
* = if necessary # = Live on TSN (EN – Canada), RDS (FR – Canada), CHL TV (Canada) & Victory+ (U.S. & World) Channel designations are subject to change RDS channel designation for Game 7 to be confirmed
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the 10 officials assigned to work the 2025 OHL Championship Series that begins Thursday night at Canada Life Place in London as the Knights take on the Oshawa Generals.
The 113th J. Ross Robertson Cup features a rare rematch scenario as London enters play with a perfect 12-0 record in these playoffs, up against an Oshawa team that has made it back to the Championship Final under first year head coach Brad Malone.
Tonight’s Game 1 of the series can be seen live across the country on TSN at 7:00pm.
OHL Director of Officiating Conrad Haché has selected the following five referees and five linespersons to officiate the series:
2025 OHL Championship Series Officiating Team
Number of OHL seasons in brackets
Referees: Chad Ingalls (3) – 1st OHL Championship Series Brendan Kane (5, 4 as referee) – 1st OHL Championship Series Pat Myers (13) – 1st OHL Championship Series Mac Nichol (7, 6 as referee) – 3rd OHL Championship Series Sean Reid (25) – 15th OHL Championship Series
Linespersons: Nick Arcan (4) – 2nd OHL Championship Series Spencer Knox (4) – 3rd OHL Championship Series Dan Kovachik (2) – 1st OHL Championship Series Dustin McCrank (16) – 10th OHL Championship Series Justin Noble (6) – 3rd OHL Championship Series
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that London Knights captain Denver Barkey is this year’s recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Humanitarian of the Year.
Through his Barkey’s Buds program in partnership with the London Knights Fan Club, the Philadelphia Flyers prospect led a cause that resulted in the donation of more than 1,500 pieces of hockey equipment to children with learning, emotional and social disabilities through the George Bray Sports Association. More than 500 tickets were provided through the Barkey’s Buds initiative so that London-area children and their families could come and watch a Knights game. Through equipment donations, 10 children were able to register in an organized hockey program for the first time.
“It’s such an honour to receive this award,” said Barkey. ” Ever since I came to London as a 16-year-old the support and passion from the fans was something I noticed right away. Now being in my last year, to be able to start Barkey’s Buds and give back to the community that has treated me and my teammates so well was the least I could do. It’s really special for me, my family and the fan club to see so many kids and their families get a chance to play and watch the game we love.”
In addition to his work with Barkey’s Buds, the fourth-year Knights forward participated in monthly visits to Children’s Hospital in London and took part in several school visits to speak with students about the importance of teamwork, healthy living and commitment to their studies. He also attended practices with local minor hockey teams, providing a mentorship presence on the ice.
“It’s a proud moment for Denver and his family and for the London Knights organization,” said Knights Vice President and General Manager Mark Hunter. “Denver is a high character young man and for him to take on this community service is something that we take pride in, giving back to the London area. Denver along with Knights Fan Club President Sav Neth and our fans have done a tremendous job this season.”
Barkey finished his fourth OHL season with the Knights registering 25 goals, 57 assists and 82 points over 50 games with a plus/minus rating of plus-46. The 20-year-old from Newmarket, Ont. has compiled 258 points (89-169–258) over 228 career regular season games since being London’s first round (16th overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. Barkey helped the Knights hoist the J. Ross Robertson Cup as OHL champions last spring, producing 27 points (6-21–27) over 18 games. He was Philadelphia’s third round (95th overall) pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and signed with the Flyers on March 3, 2024.
“The impact that Denver and the London Knights organization have made in our community goes far beyond the rink,” said Sav Neth, President of the London Knights Fan Club. “Their unwavering support and generosity have opened doors for countless young people, giving them not just the chance to watch a game, but to dream, belong, and grow through the sport of hockey. For many kids, this is more than just a game — it’s a source of confidence, connection, and purpose. By investing in our youth, Denver and the Knights are shaping stronger individuals and a more united community, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.”
Each year the OHL awards a player that has demonstrated outstanding qualities as a positive role model in the community with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. The Ontario Hockey League Board of Governors announced in 2004 that the OHL Humanitarian of the Year award would be named in recognition of the former Owen Sound Platers captain, who was twice named his team’s Humanitarian of the Year in recognition of his tremendous efforts in supporting community activities.
Barkey follows Jason Metcalfe (1998) as the second player in London Knights history to win the award. Other recent OHL recipients include Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs (2023-24), Dalyn Wakely of the North Bay Battalion (2022-23) and Mark Woolley of the Owen Sound Attack (2021-22).
Barkey finished as this year’s award recipient followed by finalists Carson Woodall of the Windsor Spitfires and Nic Sima of the Saginaw Spirit.
Barkey will be formally presented with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony this June at The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
For a full history of OHL award winners, click here.
The 2025 CHL Import Draft will expand to three rounds for the first time, reflecting a new policy that allows CHL clubs to carry up to three import players on their rosters
TORONTO, ON — The Moose Jaw Warriors of the Western Hockey League (WHL) will have the first overall selection in the 2025 CHL Import Draft, which is scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. ET. Following the Warriors, the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) will choose second, while the Victoriaville Tigres of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) will select third. The CHL’s newest franchise, the Penticton Vees of the WHL, will make their first-ever selection at No. 10 during the 2025 CHL Import Draft (see the complete draft order below).
As part of a new policy adopted for the 2025-26 season, CHL clubs will now be permitted to carry up to three import players on their rosters. In accordance with this rule change, the CHL Import Draft will expand to three rounds. Under the revised rules, a club with no current import players may select up to three players, a club with one import may select two, while a club with two imports may select one. Clubs with three import players will be ineligible to participate. Additionally, CHL clubs will be permitted to trade selections ahead of the 2025 CHL Import Draft, and these trades must be finalized two days before the draft.
For the first time in franchise history, the Moose Jaw Warriors hold the first overall pick in the CHL Import Draft, and they will be selecting within the top five for just the second time in the event’s history. With their first-round pick in last year’s CHL Import Draft, the reigning WHL champions selected Dominik Pavlik 53rd overall. The 18-year-old from Trutnov, Czechia, registered a goal and an assist over the club’s final 13 games of the 2024-25 season. The Warriors have a proven track record of developing high-impact import talent, including NHL alumni Pavel Kubina and Tomas Fleischmann, as well as Martin Rysavy, who played a key role in helping Moose Jaw capture its first-ever WHL championship in 2024.
The Peterborough Petes earned the second overall pick of the 2025 CHL Import Draft after winning the 2025 OHL Priority Selection Lottery. Set to pick second for the first time in franchise history, the Petes made only one selection at last year’s event – taking Czech forward and 2026 NHL Draft prospect Adam Novotny at No. 9. Peterborough boasts a proven history of selecting strong talent through the CHL Import Draft, including Fredrik Näslund (Sweden), Lino Martschini (Switzerland), Lukas Krajicek (Czechia), and Brian Zanetti (Switzerland), all of whom played key roles during championship seasons or brought immediate offensive contributions to the team.
The Victoriaville Tigres hold the third overall pick of the 2025 CHL Import Draft, marking their highest draft position in franchise history at this event. During last year’s draft, the Tigres chose a pair of Finnish skaters in Mikko Leppä (1st Round – 40th Overall) and Roope Rajala (2nd Round – 100th Overall), who both played a combined 39 games for Victoriaville in 2024-25. Victoriaville has a strong track record of identifying and developing international talent through the CHL Import Draft. Notable alumni include NHLer Andrej Nestrašil, as well as standout forwards Mikhail Abramov, Tomas Kubalik, and Nikita Prishchepov, who each had a significant impact on the club during their time in Victoriaville.
Over the years, the CHL Import Draft has seen countless players selected by CHL clubs at this event go on to have successful careers in the CHL’s Member Leagues (WHL, OHL, and QMJHL) before later hearing their names called at the NHL Draft. Last year, at the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas, Nevada, 10 CHL players who came through the CHL Import Draft were selected by NHL clubs: Julius Miettinen (Everett Silvertips, WHL / Seattle Kraken), Ondrej Becher (Prince George Cougars, WHL / Detroit Red Wings), Eriks Mateiko (Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL / Washington Capitals), Adam Jecho (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL / St. Louis Blues), Jakub Milota (Cape Breton Eagles, QMJHL / Nashville Predators), Jan Golicic (Gatineau Olympiques, QMJHL / Tampa Bay Lightning), Maximilian Curran (Tri-City Americans, WHL / Colorado Avalanche), Matyas Melovsky (Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL / New Jersey Devils), Jakub Fibigr (Brampton Steelheads, OHL / Seattle Kraken), and Nikita Prishchepov (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL / Colorado Avalanche).
Among some of the other notable import players to have come through the CHL before having successful NHL careers include Leon Draisaitl (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Zdeno Chara (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Marian Hossa (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Michael Backlund (Kelowna Rockets / WHL), Oliver Bjorkstrand (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Gabriel Landeskog (Kitchener Rangers / OHL), Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts / OHL), Nikita Zadorov (London Knights / OHL), Rasmus Andersson (Barrie Colts / OHL), Olli Määttä (London Knights / OHL), Nikita Kucherov (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies / QMJHL), Alexander Radulov (Québec Remparts / QMJHL), David Krejci (Gatineau Olympiques / QMJHL), Nico Hischier (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL), and Nikolaj Ehlers (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL).
Since the first CHL Import Draft was held in 1992, over 2,170 players from outside of Canada and the United States have been selected at this annual event.
OHL Writers 