Rimouski, QC – MAY 27: Round Robin game 47 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the London Knights and the Medicine Hat Tigers on May 27, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)
RIMOUSKI, QC — The Medicine Hat Tigers (3-0) advanced to the final of the 2025 Memorial Cup Tuesday night after a 3-1 win over the London Knights (2-1) at Sun Life Financial Coliseum on Tuesday night.
Medicine Hat scored three unanswered goals to secure the win after trailing early, while 2025 WHL Playoffs MVP and Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Harrison Meneghin was named Player of the Game after steering aside 25 of 26 shots for a .972 save percentage.
Ethan Neutens, Mathew Ward, and Minnesota Wild prospect Ryder Ritchie found the back of the net for Medicine Hat, while San Jose Sharks prospect Kasper Halttunen scored the lone goal for London. Austin Elliott turned aside 27 shots in the Knights’ loss.
“I thought the difference tonight was Meneghin in net,” Tigers head coach Willie Desjardins said. “I thought our guys played hard, blocked a lot of shots, and that every line contributed.”
“We wouldn’t be going to the final with no. 35,” Ward said. “He’s been a rock for us all year.”
With their win over the Knights, the Medicine Hat Tigers have secured their fourth Memorial Cup final appearance since 1972, tying them for third all-time with five other teams — including the London Knights — for the most championship game appearances. It also marks the Tigers’ first trip to the final in 18 years and makes them the first WHL team to advance directly to the championship game since the Kelowna Rockets did so in 2009, when the event was last held in Rimouski.
Tied 1-1 heading into the third, the Tigers took the lead just 77 seconds into the frame through Ward’s first of the tournament. The overage forward collected the puck after a minute tip pass from Misha Volotovskii before he spun and slid the puck home to score the eventual game-winner.
“It probably ranks number one,” Ward said of the game-winner after playing his penultimate junior hockey game. “You don’t sit around dreaming about playing that final game. You dream about winning it. I don’t know if Willie remembers, but he sent me a text when he traded for me and said he wants to win that final game. Not just be there.”
Ritchie scored his tournament-leading fourth goal into the empty net with 11.6 seconds left in regulation.
“You’ve got to be so excited to get the chance,” Desjardins said of playing for a Memorial Cup title. “It’s great for us to get the opportunity, but for sure, we want to win it – we don’t want to just show up. So, we’ve got a lot of work ahead of us.”
The win marks the first time a WHL team has gone 3-0 in the Memorial Cup round-robin since 2008. The Tigers will now look to become the first WHL club to capture the title since the Edmonton Oil Kings did so 11 years ago.
The 2025 Memorial Cup final is set for Sunday at 7:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. MT.
Halttunen had the only goal of the first period as he got a piece of San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson’s shot from the point on the power play just 3:34 into the game. In the process, Halttunen moved into second all-time for most goals scored by a Knight in Memorial Cup history with six, trailing only Christian Dvorak, who recorded seven.
The Tigers scored the only goal of the second period when Nashville Predators prospect Tanner Molendyk’s point shot deflected off Los Angeles Kings prospect Jared Woolley’s skate and landed perfectly for Ethan Neutens, who buried it into an open net from the low slot at 5:11.
London now awaits the winner of tonight’s rematch of the 2025 QMJHL Championship Series, as the host Rimouski Océanic (0-2) faces the Moncton Wildcats (0-2) in the round-robin finale tonight at 7:00 p.m. ET.
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.
Game 6 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Wednesday, May 26 – Rimouski Océanic vs. Moncton Wildcats Semi-Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Friday, May 30 – TBD vs. London Knights Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Saturday, June 1 – TBD vs. Medicine Hat Tigers
Rimouski, QC – MAY 26: Round Robin game 4 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Moncton Wildcat and the Medicine Hat Tigers on May 26, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)
RIMOUSKI, QC — Minnesota Wild prospect Ryder Ritchie scored twice to lead the Medicine Hat Tigers (2-0) to a 3-1 victory over the Moncton Wildcats (0-2) at the 2025 Memorial Cup in Rimouski on Monday night.
2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna scored into the empty net for the Tigers as Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Harrison Meneghin made 21 saves. Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Dyllan Gill had the Wildcats’ lone goal as Moncton netminder Mathis Rousseau turned aside 39 shots.
With the win, the Tigers have secured at least a spot in Friday’s semi-final. Tonight, they’ll face the only other undefeated team at the tournament, the London Knights (2-0), with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The winner of tonight’s game between the Tigers and Knights will advance directly to Sunday’s championship game, while the loser will play in Friday’s semi-final as the designated home team.
“I thought our team played well and we’re certainly happy with the win,” said Medicine Hat head coach Willie Desjardins. “We are grateful for the opportunity and don’t take it for granted.
“We know what the games are going to be like and know they are going to be hard.”
Conversely, the Moncton Wildcats now face a do-or-die situation following last night’s loss. Their Memorial Cup hopes will hinge on Wednesday’s final round-robin game against the host Rimouski Océanic (0-2) at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The winner will move on to Friday’s semi-final as the visiting team, while the loser will be eliminated from the 2025 Memorial Cup.
A pair of goals from Ritchie built the Tigers a 2-0 lead through 40 minutes on Monday. He opened the scoring 4:24 into the first as he buried the puck into a wide-open net off of Oasiz Wiesblatt’s feed moments after McKenna had been stopped on a breakaway.
His second of the night came at 9:42 of the second period as he hammered home a one-timer on the power play off of Calgary Flames prospect Andrew Basha’s feed. Ritchie would later add an assist on McKenna’s empty-netter as he led all scorers with three points on Monday night.
Another bright spot for the Tigers on Monday was the return of Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Cayden Lindstrom, who made his Memorial Cup debut. He went 6-for-11 on faceoffs and drew a key high-sticking penalty in the third period, helping to stall a late push from the Wildcats.
Following Monday’s game, Tigers forward Ryder Ritchie leads all skaters at the 2025 Memorial Cup with three goals, edging out Sam O’Reilly (London Knights), Dyllan Gill (Moncton Wildcats), Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers), and Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers), who each have two.
Additionally, Ritchie also shares the tournament scoring lead with Easton Cowan (London Knights), Oasiz Wiesblatt (Medicine Hat Tigers), and McKenna, as all four have recorded four points through two games.
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.
Game 5 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Today – London Knights vs. Medicine Hat Tigers Game 6 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Wednesday, May 28 – Rimouski Océanic vs. Moncton Wildcats Semi-Final @ 7 p.m. ET – Friday, May 30 – TBD vs. TBD
Rimouski, QC – MAY 25: Shootout Tournament prior to the Round Robin game 3 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Rimouski Océanic and the London Knights on May 25, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)
RIMOUSKI, QC — The London Knights moved to 2-0 at the 2025 Memorial Cup after a 3-1 win over the host Rimouski Oceanic on Sunday night. With the victory, the Knights have assured themselves of at least a place in Friday’s semi-final at the 105th edition of the Memorial Cup, being held in Rimouski, Québec.
On Sunday night, 2025 NHL Draft prospect Henry Brzustewicz, Winnipeg Jets prospect Jacob Julien, and Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan scored for London as Austin Elliott made 28 saves. Washington Capitals prospect Eriks Mateiko had Rimouski’s lone goal while Mathis Langevin stopped 34 shots.
“That was a really fun game to play in,” Cowan said. “High compete from both teams and we stuck with it to come out with the two points.”
With the London Knights’ win over the Rimouski Océanic on Sunday night, head coach Dale Hunter made Memorial Cup history by earning his 15th career tournament victory — the most by any head coach since the CHL adopted its current format in 1972. The milestone moves Hunter past legendary WHL bench boss Don Hay (14 wins with the Kamloops Blazers and Vancouver Giants), placing him alone atop the all-time coaching wins list at the Memorial Cup.
“It’s a credit to the players here,” Hunter said, who now has a 15-7 career record at the Memorial Cup. “To win games, they are the ones who have to sacrifice on the ice to block shots. Through the years I’ve had great players and winners and they go on to do great things.”
Julien buried the game-winner with just 5:07 left in the third period as he converted a pretty passing play was started by Cowan, who found San Jose Sharks prospect Kasper Halttunen before he slid the puck over to Julien for his first of the tournament. Cowan ensured the win with an empty-netter at 18:08.
After a goalless first period – in which both teams registered nine goals – it was the Océanic who opened the scoring 2:14 into the second period as after some great work down low by Vegas Golden Knights prospect Mathieu Cataford, Mateiko found a loose puck in the crease to grab his first of the tournament.
London got level through 2025 NHL Draft prospect Brzustewicz who at 9:47 found himself with all kinds of space to bury a wrister from the right dot to make it 1-1.
“That was two strong teams going at it,” Julien said. “Both played really well defensively and offensively and we were fortunate enough to come out on top.”
Next up, the London Knights (2-0) will look to become the first team to make back-to-back appearances in a Memorial Cup final since the Windsor Spitfires did so during their championship runs in 2009 and 2010. With a win over the Medicine Hat Tigers (1-0) tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET, the Knights would secure their spot in this year’s title game.
Meanwhile, the host Rimouski Océanic (0-2) will look to keep their Memorial Cup hopes alive when they take on the Moncton Wildcats (0-1) on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET. The matchup marks a rematch of the QMJHL Championship Series, where Moncton defeated Rimouski in six games to capture the third league title in franchise history.
But first, tonight at 7 p.m. ET, the Medicine Hat Tigers (1-0) will try to follow in the Knights’ footsteps and clinch a spot in at least Friday’s semi-final — a feat they can accomplish with a win over the Wildcats. Moncton, on the other hand, will be fighting for their first victory of the tournament and a chance to secure a place in Thursday’s potential tiebreaker.
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.
Game 4 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Today – Moncton Wildcats vs. Medicine Hat Tigers Game 5 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Tuesday, May 27 – London Knights vs. Medicine Hat Tigers Game 6 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Wednesday, May 28 – Rimouski Océanic vs. Moncton Wildcats
Following Sunday’s victory, the London Knights sit in first place as the 2025 Memorial Cup enters its fourth day.
Jacob Cloutier of the Saginaw Spirit. Photo by OHL Images.
Jacob Cloutier hails from Gloucester, Ontario, Canada. Born on March 22, 2007, Cloutier has steadily climbed the ranks in junior hockey, showcasing his skills and determination. Currently playing for the Saginaw Spirit in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), he has established himself as a solid right winger with a strong offensive presence.
Cloutier was drafted 36th overall in the 2nd round of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection Draft by the Saginaw Spirit. His journey through junior hockey has been marked by consistent improvement, earning recognition as a 2025 NHL Draft prospect. His rankings vary greatly among scouts.
Skating & Agility – Cloutier possesses excellent edge work but is in dire need of adding some speed both in first steps and top speed. It’s a must to succeed at the next level.
Hockey IQ – His ability to read plays and anticipate movements makes him a valuable asset in offensive transitions.
Shot Accuracy – He has a quick release and can pick corners with precision, making him a threat in scoring situations.
Playmaking Ability – Cloutier demonstrates strong vision and passing skills, setting up teammates for high-quality scoring chances.
Defensive Play – While his offensive game is strong, he could refine his backchecking and positioning in the defensive zone.
-Physicality – At 170 lbs, adding more strength could help him withstand physical battles along the boards and in front of the net.
Consistency – Maintaining a high level of performance throughout the season will be key to his development as a top-tier prospect.
With his current trajectory, Cloutier has the potential to be a solid mid to late round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. His ability to adapt and improve will determine his success at the professional level. If he continues refining his game, he could become a valuable asset for an NHL team looking for a skilled and intelligent winger.
Carson Harmer of the Saginaw Spirit. Photo by OHL Images.
Harmer’s path began with the Huron Perth Lakers, where he played at the U15 and U16 AAA levels. His offensive production was notable, particularly in the 2022-23 season, where he recorded 20 goals and 20 assists in 33 games at the U16 level. His ability to generate offense and contribute in all areas of the ice made him a standout prospect.
Following his time with the Lakers, Harmer transitioned to the Stratford Warriors in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL). His first full season with the Warriors in 2023-24 saw him post 28 goals and 37 assists in 46 games, demonstrating his ability to adapt to higher levels of competition. His strong performance earned him a spot with the Saginaw Spirit in the OHL for the 2024-25 season.
Harmer’s first season in the OHL has been a learning experience, but he has shown flashes of brilliance. In 68 games, he recorded 23 goals and 27 assists. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a responsible two-way game has made him a valuable asset for Saginaw.
As a 2025 NHL Draft prospect, Harmer has garnered attention from scouts. He is currently ranked #107 by NHL Central Scouting (North American Skaters) and. While he may not be projected as a sure-fire pick, his steady development and strong work ethic suggest he could be a valuable selection in the later rounds.
Harmer is a smooth and efficient skater, with solid edge work and agility. While he may not possess elite top-end speed, his ability to maneuver in tight spaces and accelerate quickly allows him to evade defenders and create offensive opportunities.
One of Harmer’s standout traits is his intelligence on the ice. His off-puck movements are calculated and intentional, allowing him to find open space and anticipate plays effectively. He excels in reading the game, making smart decisions in both offensive and defensive situations.
Harmer has a quick and accurate shot, capable of beating goaltenders from various angles. His ability to find soft spots in the defense and capitalize on scoring chances makes him a dangerous offensive presence. Additionally, his playmaking ability is strong, as he can set up teammates with crisp passes and creative setups.
Defensively, Harmer is responsible and engaged. He applies pressure effectively, where his ability to disrupt opposing plays shines. His commitment to backchecking and positioning makes him a reliable two-way player.
While not the biggest player at 5’10” and 185 lbs, Harmer does not shy away from physical play. He has shown the ability to deliver hard hits, particularly in key moments of games. His physical engagement adds another dimension to his game, making him a well-rounded competitor.
To elevate his game further, Harmer should focus on improving his explosiveness in skating and refining his puck-handling under pressure. While his offensive instincts are strong, continued development in these areas will help him transition smoothly to professional hockey.
Carson Harmer is a promising young center with a well-rounded skill set. His ability to contribute offensively, play responsibly in his own zone, and engage physically makes him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. While he may not be a top-ranked player, his steady development and strong hockey IQ suggest he has the potential to carve out a successful career at the professional level.
As he continues to refine his game with the Saginaw Spirit, Harmer will be a player to watch in the coming years. Whether he makes an immediate impact in the NHL or takes time to develop, his dedication and skill set make him a valuable asset for any team willing to invest in his growth.
Rimouski, QC – MAY 24: Round Robin game 2 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Moncton Wildcats and the London Knights on May 24, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)
RIMOUSKI, QC — Edmonton Oilers prospect Sam O’Reilly scored the overtime winner as the London Knights began their 2025 Memorial Cup campaign with a 3-2 win over the Moncton Wildcats in Rimouski, Québec.
O’Reilly buried the game-winner at 4:23 of overtime as after London Knights forward Easton Cowan (Toronto Maple Leafs prospect) spun around Moncton’s Caleb Desnoyers (2025 NHL Draft prospect), he found the Oilers prospect to the right side of Rousseau, where he tipped the puck high for his second of the night.
“I just try to get to the net,” O’Reilly said. “[Cowan] does all of his creative stuff up top. It’s always the best place to go is to the net, he throws pucks there a lot and fortunate enough to be able to score one.”
With London’s 3-2 overtime win over Moncton, Dale Hunter recorded his 14th career Memorial Cup victory as a head coach, tying Don Hay for the most all-time since 1972. Hunter, who owns a 14-7 record at the tournament, has now pulled even with Hay (14-4) atop the all-time coaching wins list at the Memorial Cup.
In addition to his OT winner, O’Reilly also scored in regulation, along with San Jose Sharks prospect Kasper Halttunen, while Austin Elliott turned aside 27 shots for the Knights. On the Moncton side, Calgary Flames prospect Etienne Morin and Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Dyllan Gill found the back of the net, with Mathis Rousseau making 45 saves in the loss.
London – finalists at the 2024 Memorial Cup – needed all of 91 seconds to strike as O’Reilly got a piece of Sam Dickinson’s (San Jose Sharks prospect) point shot to grab an early 1-0 lead. But Moncton battled back to level things up at the first intermission as Etienne Morin’s shot from the blue line hit London defenceman Jared Woolley (Los Angeles Kings prospect) to change directions and beat Elliott at 6:59.
The Knights restored their lead at 5:11 of the second through Halttunen, who unloaded a one-timer on the power play to register his fifth career Memorial Cup goal. In doing so, the Finnish forward now has a goal in five straight Memorial Cup outings, matching the longest goal-scoring streak at a Memorial Cup since 2000 – a mark set by Ty Rattie (Portland Winterhawks), who found the back of the net in all five games of the 2013 Memorial Cup.
However, once again, the Wildcats found the tying goal in the period as it was Gill’s time to convert on the man advantage as his shot from the blue line beat Elliott.
After a goalless third, that saw London outshot Moncton 16-3, it was O’Reilly who played hero at night’s end.
“They’re good players and they want to win really bad,” Hunter said. “They play hard, and when the big games are on the line they come through.”
Next up, the London Knights (1-0) will be looking to earn their second win in as many nights when they hit the ice for Game 3 of the round-robin tonight at 6 p.m. ET against the host Rimouski Océanic (0-1). Meanwhile, the Océanic will be in search of their first win of the tournament after falling 5-4 to the Medicine Hat Tigers in their opening game.
Looking ahead, the round-robin continues Monday night as the Moncton Wildcats (0-1) take on the Medicine Hat Tigers (1-0) at 7 p.m. ET in a pivotal matchup for both teams. On Tuesday, the London Knights will close out their round-robin schedule with a showdown against the Tigers.
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.
Game 3 (Round-Robin) @ 6 p.m. ET – Today – Rimouski Océanic vs. London Knights Game 4 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Monday, May 26 – Moncton Wildcats vs. Medicine Hat Tigers Game 5 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Tuesday, May 27 – London Knights vs. Medicine Hat Tigers
Rimouski, QC – MAY 23: Round Robin game 1 of the 2025 Memorial Cup between the Medicine Hats Tigers and the Rimouski Océanic on May 23, 2025, at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in Rimouski, Qc. (Photo by Vincent Ethier/CHL)
RIMOUSKI, QC — Hunter St. Martin scored the game-winning goal with 2:41 left in regulation as the Medicine Hat Tigers took Game 1 of the 2025 Memorial Cup over the host Rimouski Oceanic on Friday night.
2025 NHL Draft prospect Bryce Pickford scored twice while Minnesota Wild prospect Ryder Ritchie and 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna also had goals as Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Harrison Meneghin stopped 20 shots. For Rimouski, Maël Lavigne, Maël St-Denis, Jacob Mathieu, and Jonathan Fauchon found the back of the net as Mathis Langevin made 33 saves.
St. Martin tipped home the game-winner off a Tanner Molendyk (Nashville Predators prospect) feed to give the Tigers a perfect start to the tournament.
“That was one of the hardest teams we’ve played all year,” McKenna said. “We had guys selling out all game, guys were blocking shots at the end of the game. I think it shows how bad we wanted it.”
Ritchie had opened the scoring 13:50 into the first as he buried a loose puck after McKenna hit the crossbar, but the Oceanic levelled things before the end of the period through Lavigne.
The hosts took their first lead of the game at 10:43 of the second as he benefitted from a Tigers turnover to take 2-1, but Pickford extended his incredible goalscoring streak to nine games as he converted at 16:18 to tie the game. Pickford, a native of Chauvin, Alta., recently recorded the most goals by a CHL defenceman in a single playoff run (13) since 2000.
Rimouski, however, answered immediately as Mathieu was credited with his first on an odd-bounce just 2:08 later as the hosts took a 3-2 advantage into the break.
Medicine Hat needed only 68 seconds to level things up at 3-3 as Pickford again found the back of the net with a snipe from the top of the left dot before McKenna converted on a breakaway at 5:16 to make it 4-3.
“I thought I could get him high, saw it and shot it, and luckily it went in,” McKenna said.
Fauchon – who led the QMJHL in scoring this season – made it 4-4 at 13:04 before St. Martin buried the game-winner to give the Tigers a crucial opening-night win.
“Tanner made a great move at the blue line and I saw him go to the net,” St. Martin said. “That play has happened a few times so there was a little bit of familiarity there so I thought ‘go to the net and put my stick down’ and he made an unbelievable pass and luckily it went in which was really good for our group.”
In a fitting turn of events, the victory comes exactly 18 years after Medicine Hat’s last win at the prestigious tournament — a 1-0 triumph over the host Vancouver Giants at the 2007 Memorial Cup.
Next up, Game 2 of the 2025 Memorial Cup round-robin takes place today at 6 p.m. ET, featuring the Moncton Wildcats (0-0) facing off against the London Knights (0-0).
The Rimouski Océanic (0-1) will return to the ice at the 2025 Memorial Cup on Sunday, May 25, for Game 3 of the round-robin at 6 p.m. ET, when they take on the London Knights (0-0).
Meanwhile, the Tigers (1-0) are back on the ice Monday, May 26, at 7 p.m. ET, when they take on the QMJHL champion Moncton Wildcats (0-0).
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.
Game 2 (Round-Robin) @ 6 p.m. ET – Today – Moncton Wildcats vs. London Knights Game 3 (Round-Robin) @ 6 p.m. ET – Sunday, May 25 – Rimouski Océanic vs. London Knights Game 4 (Round-Robin) @ 7 p.m. ET – Monday, May 26 – Moncton Wildcats vs. Medicine Hat Tigers
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced the appointment of Darrell Woodley to the role of Director of Hockey Development, a position crucial to the league’s mission of growing and strengthening hockey in Ontario and across North America.
Woodley will oversee the development and implementation of the ongoing evolution of the Ontario Development Model and serve as the league’s day-to-day liaison with key stakeholders including Hockey Canada, the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF), Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO), Hockey Northwestern Ontario (HNO), the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), the province’s various junior development leagues, minor hockey organizations and school sport hockey partners.
Woodley, who has worked as the OHL’s Director of Central Scouting since 2011 and also has experience as a regional scout with Hockey Canada, is looking forward to the new opportunity.
“With a tremendous amount of change occurring across the hockey landscape, it’s an exciting time to embark on a new challenge,” said Woodley. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in the OHL as a player, coach, management team member, scout and employee at the league office and I’m looking forward to investing in the work of developing the best young players not just for the OHL, but also for Hockey Canada and its Program of Excellence.”
A player for the Oshawa Generals and Barrie Colts from 1994-97, Woodley also served in roles as the Director of Player Development with the Colts starting in 2002, also serving as an Assistant Coach before joining the league office in 2011.
“Darrell brings a wealth of experience to this role,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “He’ll serve as the league’s lead on the Ontario Development Model, and will seek to ensure that the development strategy reflects a unified vision for player growth, competitive balance and long-term success. His work will be important in the area of strengthening affiliation agreements between OHL clubs and junior development leagues such as the GOJHL, OJHL, CCHL and NOJHL among others.”
Woodley will also oversee annual league events such as the OHL Cup, OHL Performance Development Program and the return of the Battle of the Border while also exploring opportunities to expand grassroots hockey development and diversity outreach programming.
Established in 1981, the OHL Central Scouting Department, of which Woodley was Director, has officially ceased operations as the OHL centers its attention on player development moving into the 2025-26 season and beyond. OHL member teams and their respective scouting departments will continue to identify talent at various levels of the game while the league office, with Darrell Woodley leading the effort, places a greater emphasis on the development of young players coming up through Ontario’s hockey system.
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)
OHL Writers 