OHL ANNOUNCES CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OFFICIATING TEAM

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

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

KNIGHTS’ DENVER BARKEY AWARDED DAN SNYDER MEMORIAL TROPHY AS OHL HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

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.

Moose Jaw Warriors to select first overall at the 2025 CHL Import Draft

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
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. 

Order of Selections for the 2025 CHL Import Draft

First Round Second Round Third Round
#Team #Team #Team
1Moose Jaw Warriors 62Penticton Vees 123Penticton Vees
2Peterborough Petes 63Peterborough Petes 124Peterborough Petes
3Victoriaville Tigres 64Victoriaville Tigres 125Victoriaville Tigres
4Regina Pats 65Moose Jaw Warriors 126Moose Jaw Warriors
5Guelph Storm 66Guelph Storm 127Guelph Storm
6Saint John Sea Dogs 67Saint John Sea Dogs 128Saint John Sea Dogs
7Kelowna Rockets 68Regina Pats 129Regina Pats
8Ottawa 67’s 69Sarnia Sting 130Sarnia Sting
9Halifax Mooseheads 70Halifax Mooseheads 131Halifax Mooseheads
10Penticton Vees 71Kelowna Rockets 132Kelowna Rockets
11Sarnia Sting 72Ottawa 67’s 133Ottawa 67’s
12Gatineau Olympiques 73Gatineau Olympiques 134Gatineau Olympiques
13Kamloops Blazers 74Kamloops Blazers 135Kamloops Blazers
14Owen Sound Attack 75Owen Sound Attack 136Owen Sound Attack
15Québec Remparts 76Québec Remparts 137Québec Remparts
16Wenatchee Wild 77Wenatchee Wild 138Wenatchee Wild
17North Bay Battalion 78North Bay Battalion 139North Bay Battalion
18Val-d’Or Foreurs 79Val-d’Or Foreurs 140Val-d’Or Foreurs
19Red Deer Rebels 80Red Deer Rebels 141Red Deer Rebels
20Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 81Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 142Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
21Charlottetown Islanders 82Charlottetown Islanders 143Charlottetown Islanders
22Seattle Thunderbirds 83Seattle Thunderbirds 144Seattle Thunderbirds
23Flint Firebirds 84Flint Firebirds 145Flint Firebirds
24Newfoundland Regiment 85Newfoundland Regiment 146Newfoundland Regiment
25Tri-City Americans 86Tri-City Americans 147Tri-City Americans
26Niagara Icedogs 87Niagara Icedogs 148Niagara Icedogs
2 7Sherbrooke Phoenix 88Sherbrooke Phoenix 149Sherbrooke Phoenix
28Swift Current Broncos 89Swift Current Broncos 150Swift Current Broncos
29Sudbury Wolves 90Sudbury Wolves 151Sudbury Wolves
30Cape Breton Eagles 91Cape Breton Eagles 152Cape Breton Eagles
31Vancouver Giants 92Vancouver Giants 153Vancouver Giants
32Erie Otters 93Erie Otters 154Erie Otters
33Blainville-Boisbriand Armada 94Blainville-Boisbriand Armada 155Blainville-Boisbriand Armada
34Portland Winterhawks 95Portland Winterhawks 156  Portland Winterhawks
35Saginaw Spirit 96Saginaw Spirit 157Saginaw Spirit
36Baie-Comeau Drakkar 97Baie-Comeau Drakkar 158Baie-Comeau Drakkar
37Edmonton Oil Kings 98Edmonton Oil Kings 159Edmonton Oil Kings
38Brampton Steelheads 99Brampton Steelheads 160Brampton Steelheads
39Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 100Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 161Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
40Saskatoon Blades 101Saskatoon Blades 162Saskatoon Blades
41Oshawa Generals 102Oshawa Generals 163Oshawa Generals
42Chicoutimi Saguenéens 103Chicoutimi Saguenéens 164Chicoutimi Saguenéens
43Brandon Wheat Kings 104Brandon Wheat Kings 165Brandon Wheat Kings
44Kingston Frontenacs 105Kingston Frontenacs 166Kingston Frontenacs
45Shawinigan Cataractes 106Shawinigan Cataractes 167Shawinigan Cataractes
46Prince Albert Raiders 107Prince Albert Raiders 168Prince Albert Raiders
47Barrie Colts 108Barrie Colts 169Barrie Colts
48Drummondville Voltigeurs 109Drummondville Voltigeurs 170Drummondville Voltigeurs
49Prince George Cougars 110Prince George Cougars 171Prince George Cougars
50Brantford Bulldogs 111Brantford Bulldogs 172Brantford Bulldogs
51Rimouski Océanic 
112  		Rimouski Océanic 173Rimouski Océanic
52Lethbridge Hurricanes 113Lethbridge Hurricanes 174Lethbridge Hurricanes
53Windsor Spitfires 114Windsor Spitfires 175Windsor Spitfires
54Moncton Wildcats 115Moncton Wildcats 176Moncton Wildcats
55Victoria Royals 116Victoria Royals 177Victoria Royals
56Kitchener Rangers 117Kitchener Rangers 178Kitchener Rangers
57Spokane Chiefs 118Spokane Chiefs 179Spokane Chiefs
58London Knights 119London Knights 180London Knights
59Calgary Hitmen 120Calgary Hitmen 181Calgary Hitmen
60Medicine Hat Tigers 121Medicine Hat Tigers 182Medicine Hat Tigers
61Everett Silvertips 
122 		Everett Silvertips 183Everett Silvertips

MISA, BUDNICK AND SIENKO NAMED 2024-25 OHL ACADEMIC AWARD WINNERS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced its annual academic award winners for the 2024-25 season including Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa, Brantford Bulldogs defenceman Thomas Budnick and Saginaw Spirit blueliner Kaden Sienko.



Spirit’s Michael Misa claims Bobby Smith Award as OHL Scholastic Player of the Year

Top 2025 NHL Draft prospect Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit is the 2024-25 recipient of the Bobby Smith Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year.

Saginaw’s captain, Misa was a force on the ice, with his 134 points earning him the Eddie Powers Trophy as the OHL’s top scorer. He was also a star performer in the classroom, achieving an 86 percent average in Grade 12 University-level courses at Oakville Trafalgar High School. Misa’s course load included Kinesiology, Functions, International Business and Health and Nutrition.

“I am proud of the support system we have in Saginaw,” said Misa. “Pam Moretuzzo did a great job this year, always making sure our players were in check with their schoolwork and helping me whenever I needed it. Receiving the Bobby Smith Award is an honor, and I’m grateful for the league’s consideration.”

Misa’s season on the ice was nothing short of sensational as his 62 goals tied him with Patrick Kane of the 2006-07 London Knights for the third-most by an NHL Draft eligible player in OHL history. His 134 points established a new Saginaw Spirit record and are tied with John Tavares of the 2006-07 Oshawa Generals for the most by an under-18 OHL skater since the year 2000.

“I think what Michael has been able to do this year is incredible,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “It shows he’s a well-rounded person, it’s not just about the hockey, and that he takes a lot of pride in who he is away from the rink as well. We couldn’t be more proud of him.”

Misa becomes the Spirit franchise’s second-ever recipient of the Bobby Smith Trophy following Cole Perfetti in 2019-20. Other prominent past winners of the award currently playing in the NHL include Thomas Harley (2018-19), Barrett Hayton (2017-18), Nicolas Hague (2015-16), back-to-back winner Connor McDavid (2013-14, 2014-15), Darnell Nurse (2012-13), Adam Pelech (2011-12), Dougie Hamilton (2010-11), Erik Gudbranson (2009-10), Matt Duchene (2008-09) and Steven Stamkos (2006-07).

“Michael is a diligent and hardworking individual both on and off the ice,” said Spirit Academic Advisor Pamela Moretuzzo. “He leads by example through his actions and consistently strives to do his best. Michael sets a positive example for his teammates, perseveres through adversity, and maintains an optimistic outlook in in every situation. He takes initiative in his learning by seeking help to gain a deeper understanding of the material at hand.”

An 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Misa is the Spirit’s all-time scoring leader with 265 points (113-152–265) over 177 career regular season games. The former OHL Rookie of the Year in 2023 was chosen first overall as an exceptional status 15-year-old player by the franchise after winning an OHL Cup title and setting a new single tournament scoring record in 2022. He enters the 2025 NHL Draft this summer in Los Angeles as the second-ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting.

Misa finished as this year’s frontrunner for the Bobby Smith Trophy, followed by finalists Beckham Edwards of the Sarnia Sting and Cameron Reid of the Kitchener Rangers.

Each year the Bobby Smith Trophy is presented to the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year who best combines high standards of play and academic excellence. The trophy is in honour of Bobby Smith, a former Ottawa 67’s star who exhibited a standard of excellence in both of these areas.



Bulldogs’ Thomas Budnick earns Roger Neilson Memorial Award as OHL’s Top Academic Post-Secondary Student

Brantford Bulldogs defenceman Thomas Budnick is the 2024-25 recipient of the Roger Neilson Memorial Award, presented annually to the OHL’s Top Academic Post-Secondary Student.

Budnick excelled in studies at the University of Guelph, achieving an 86.2 percent average headlined by a 95 percent grade in Computer Science while also studying Microeconomics, Sport Management and Organizational Studies.

“The Brantford Bulldogs are part of an elite class of organizations,” said Budnick. “The way they turn boys into men is something that is underappreciated. They provide the tools and resources that are necessary in helping you get a proper education to set up a life after hockey. They help you thrive on and off the ice, and provide you with everything you need to succeed. They put an emphasis on getting a proper education and taking school seriously. Most importantly I would like to thank, Mrs. Vance, Mrs. Alfano, Justin Ismael, and Brennan O’Sullivan for pushing me and helping me manage the stress and difficulties that were presented, they were a big part of helping me get through the year.”

While he was a pace-setter in the classroom, Budnick saw big minutes on the ice as a shutdown defenceman for the Bulldogs. He recorded 14 points (4-10–14) over 29 games with a plus-14 record after being acquired by Brantford from the Guelph Storm on January 9th. His 2024-25 season featured seven goals, 20 assists and 27 points along with a plus-28 rating over 46 contests.

“We’re very grateful as a staff for the opportunity to have had Thomas Budnick as part of our team,” said Bulldogs Head Coach Jay McKee. “His leadership qualities will resonate with our current players for years to come and they are further highlighted with Thomas earning the Roger Nielson Memorial Award.  We are very proud of his achievement and look forward to watching the next steps of his hockey career.”

Budnick recently signed a one-year American Hockey League contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, top affiliate of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins. His four-year OHL career featured other stops in Kingston and Guelph as he amassed 84 points (15-69–84) over 233 regular season games. The 21-year-old from Petoskey, Michigan was originally Kingston’s third round (59th overall) pick in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection.

“It’s Tommy’s drive and determination that makes him successful both on the ice and in the classroom,” said Bulldogs Academic Advisor Maureen Alfano. “He holds himself to a high standard and does not settle for less than the best he can give. He is extremely hard working and is an exceptional role model for the younger players on the team. Tommy is a very worthy recipient of the Roger Neilson Memorial Award.”

While Budnick emerged as this year’s award winner, finalists included Kingston Frontenacs goaltender Mason Vaccari and Ottawa 67’s forward Chris Barlas.

The Roger Neilson Memorial Award is named in honour of the Hall of Fame Coach who served behind the Peterborough Petes bench in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.  Neilson, a former high school teacher, was a pioneer in stressing the importance of education to all of his players. Budnick is the first Bulldogs player to ever win the award.



Spirit’s Kaden Sienko wins Ivan Tennant Memorial Award as OHL’s Top Academic High School Student

First-year Saginaw Spirit defenceman Kaden Sienko is the 2024-25 recipient of the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award, presented annually to the OHL’s Top Academic High School Student.

Sienko produced a 98 percent average in Grade 11 studies at Heritage High School, mastering a course load that included English, History, Health, Biology and Co-op.

“I’m incredibly honored to accept the Ivan Tennant Award. It means a lot to be recognized not just for what I do on the ice, but for the work I’ve put in at school too,” said Sienko. “Balancing hockey and high school isn’t always easy—between practices, games, travel, and assignments, it can be a lot. But I’ve always believed that staying committed in the classroom helps me become a better athlete and a better person.”

A 17-year-old from Binghamton, New York, Sienko was Saginaw’s 13th round (261st overall) pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. He recorded three assists over 18 games in his first OHL season, finishing with a plus-4 rating.

“What Kaden accomplished this season was very impressive,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “He made our team as a 16-year-old and was playing extremely well before missing significant time with injury. For him to keep up with and excel at his schoolwork through all of that makes him very deserving of this award.”

Sienko becomes the first member of the Saginaw Spirit to win the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award.

“Kaden is a hardworking, proactive student who takes his academics seriously,” said Spirit Academic Advisor Pamela Moretuzzo. “He consistently works ahead to stay on top of his coursework during road trips and demonstrates excellent communication skills with his teachers and peers. Kaden also sets a high standard for his teammates, leading by example.”

Sienko claimed this year’s honour, while Brantford Bulldogs forward Aiden O’Donnell and Niagara IceDogs forward Braidy Wassilyn were award finalists.

The Ivan Tennant Memorial Award is given to the League’s Top Academic High School Player and is named in honour of Ivan Tennant, who spent a lifetime combining hockey and education. He was the Kitchener Rangers’ Education Consultant for 20 years and a key figure on the OHL’s Education Consultant’s Committee.

Misa, Budnick and Sienko will be formally presented with their respective awards in June at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony at The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

For a complete list of OHL Award winners, click here.

OHL ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR 2025 CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES ON TSN

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Series features first J. Ross Robertson Cup Championship rematch since 1955

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the schedule of games for the 113th J. Ross Robertson Cup Final to be played between the London Knights and Oshawa Generals in a rematch of last year’s Championship Series.
 
The Knights claimed their record third consecutive Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference champions after defeating the Kitchener Rangers in four straight games, giving them three consecutive series sweeps to start the playoffs. London eliminated the Owen Sound Attack and the Erie Otters in the opening two rounds of the postseason.

The Knights are pursuing their sixth OHL title after hoisting the Robertson Cup last spring. They came within one win of hoisting the Memorial Cup last June in Saginaw.

The Generals are back where they were this time last year, eliminating the Barrie Colts in four games to earn the Bobby Orr Trophy for the second straight spring. The fourth-seed Generals have made their way through a challenging set of opponents, with previous series victories over the Brampton Steelheads and Brantford Bulldogs.

Oshawa leads the OHL with a total of 13 J. Ross Robertson Cup titles, with their latest coming in 2015 before advancing to claim the Memorial Cup in Quebec City.

The OHL Championship Series can be seen in its entirety on TSN, with Victor Findlay providing the call on play-by-play accompanied by colour analyst and OHL alumnus Frankie Corrado. The series will also be available to stream on OHL Live on CHL TV.
 
OHL Championship Series Schedule
(1W) London Knights vs. (4E) Oshawa Generals
Game 1 – Thursday, May 8 at London, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Saturday, May 10 at London, 7:00pm
Game 3 – Monday, May 12 at Oshawa, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Tuesday, May 13 at Oshawa, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Thursday, May 15 at London, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Saturday, May 17 at Oshawa, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Monday, May 19 at London, Time TBD*

MARRELLI, ELLIOTT AND ARQUETTE NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, May 4, 2025.



Generals’ Luca Marrelli Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Luca Marrelli of the Oshawa Generals is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, registering a goal, six assists and seven points over two games played.

Helping the Generals secure their second straight trip to the OHL Championship Series, Marrelli recorded two assists in Tuesday’s 7-6 double-overtime win over the Barrie Colts. He followed up with a standout performance on Thursday, notching a goal and four assists to earn first star honours in an 8-4 victory.

A 19-year-old from Toronto, Ont., Marrelli racked up 74 points (19-55–74) in 67 games this season. Selected by Oshawa in the fifth round (81st overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot-2, 185 lb. defenceman has totaled 171 points (30-141–171) over 254 career regular season games. Leading all OHL scorers in the postseason, he’s recorded six goals, 25 assists, and 31 points through 16 games in the 2025 OHL Playoffs, establishing a new Generals playoff record by a defender. Marrelli was selected in the third round (86th overall) by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2024 NHL Draft and signed an entry-level contract with the club on December 11, 2024.

Also considered for this week’s award, Generals teammates in Anaheim Ducks prospect Beckett Sennecke (1-6-7) and 2025 NHL Draft-eligible forward Owen Griffin (3-2-5) helped Oshawa secure the Eastern Conference crown.

2024-25 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs:
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)

2024-25 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Mar. 17 – Mar. 23: Konnor Smith (Brampton Steelheads)
Mar. 10 – Mar. 16: Ilya Protas (Windsor Spitfires)
Mar. 3 – Mar. 9: Quentin Musty (Sudbury Wolves)
Feb. 24 – Mar. 2: Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds)
Feb. 17 – Feb. 23: Ilya Protas (Windsor Spitfires)
Feb. 10 – Feb. 16: Cole Brown (Brantford Bulldogs)
Feb. 3 – Feb. 9: Igor Chernyshov (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 27 – Feb. 2: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 20 – Jan. 26: Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 13 – Jan. 19: Tuomas Uronen (Kingston Frontenacs)
Jan. 6 – Jan. 12: Kocha Delic (Sudbury Wolves)
Dec. 30 – Jan. 5: Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 29: Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Dec. 16 – Dec. 22: Marco Mignosa (Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 9 – Dec. 15: Ryan Roobroeck (Niagara IceDogs)
Dec. 2 – Dec. 8: Beckett Sennecke (Oshawa Generals)
Nov. 25 – Dec. 1: Blake Montgomery (London Knights)
Nov. 18 – Nov. 24: Joey Willis (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 11 – Nov. 17: Joey Willis (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 4 – Nov. 10: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Oct. 28 – Nov. 3: Marco Mignosa (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 21 – Oct. 27: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Oct. 14 – Oct. 20: Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
Oct. 7 – Oct. 13: Calvin Crombie (Brantford Bulldogs)
Sept. 30 – Oct. 6: Kevin He (Niagara IceDogs)
Sep. 25 – Sept. 29: Michael Misa (Saginaw Spirit)



Knights’ Austin Elliott Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Austin Elliott of the London Knights is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the third time this season, playing to a 2-0 record along with a 2.00 goals-against average and .920 save percentage.

Backstopping the Knights to their third consecutive OHL Championship Series appearance, Elliott made a total of 46 saves last week. He stopped 21 of the 23 shots he faced on Monday in a 3-2 win over the Kitchener Rangers. The 6-foot-1, 189lb. netminder returned between the pipes on Wednesday, making 25 saves in a 4-2 victory to help the Knights clinch the Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference champions.

A 20-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 perfect in the playoffs, going 12-0 with one shutout, a 2.31 goals-against average, and a .904 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:
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)



Rangers’ Cameron Arquette Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Cameron Arquette of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Rookie of the Week, registering a goal and an assist across two games played.

Arquette recorded a goal and an assist to earn second star honours in Monday’s Game 3 of the West Final, despite the Rangers falling 3-2 to the London Knights.

Selected by Kitchener in the fourth round (71st overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Sun County Panthers U16 AAA program, the 18-year-old from Wheatley, Ont. suited up in 53 regular season games with the Rangers this year, registering eight goals and seven assists for 15 points. He spent the 2023-24 campaign with the OJHL’s Leamington Flyers, where he tallied 43 points (15-28–43) in 45 games. Despite Kitchener’s Western Conference playoff exit against the Knights, Arquette appeared in 16 postseason contests, contributing one goal and four assists.

2024-25 OHL Rookies of the Week – Playoffs:
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)

2024-25 OHL Rookies of the Week – Regular Season:
March. 17 – March. 23: Zachary Jovanovski (Guelph Storm)
March. 10 – March. 16: Aidan Lane (Brampton Steelheads)
March. 3 – March. 9: Liam Beamish (Sarnia Sting)
Feb. 24 – March. 2: Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Feb. 17 – Feb. 23: Cole Zurawski (Owen Sound Attack)
Feb. 10 – Feb. 16: Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack)
Feb. 3 – Feb. 9: Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack)
Jan. 27 – Feb. 2: Jacob Cloutier (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 20 – Jan. 26: Dimian Zhilkin (Saginaw Spirit)
Jan. 13 – Jan. 19: Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds)
Jan. 6 – Jan. 12: Lev Katzin (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 30 – Jan. 5: Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 29: Carson Harmer (Saginaw Spirit)
Dec. 16 – Dec. 22: Logan Hawery (London Knights)
Dec. 9 – Dec. 15: Liam Beamish (Sarnia Sting)
Dec. 2 – Dec. 8: Lev Katzin (Guelph Storm)
Nov. 25 – Dec. 1: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights)
Nov. 18 – Nov. 24: Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
Nov. 11 – Nov. 17: Beckham Edwards (Sarnia Sting)
Nov. 4 – Nov. 10: Carter Stevens (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 28 – Nov. 3: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights)
Oct. 21 – Oct. 27: Cole Zurawski (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 14 – Oct. 20: Alessandro Di Iorio (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 7 – Oct. 13: Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack)
Sept. 30 – Oct. 6: Beckham Edwards (Sarnia Sting)
Sept. 25 – Sept. 29: Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires)

OHL Final Preview: London Knights vs Oshawa Generals

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) final between the London Knights and Oshawa Generals is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown, steeped in history and fueled by high stakes. This year’s series marks a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s final, where London dominated Oshawa in a sweep. Both teams have been on a warpath this season, carving their way through the playoffs to set up another dramatic battle for the J. Ross Robertson Cup.

Last Season’s Final: London’s Domination

The 2024 OHL final was a one-sided affair, with the London Knights cruising to a 4-0 series sweep over the Generals. The Knights overwhelmed Oshawa with their firepower, outscoring them 31-9 in four games. Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan was the series MVP, finishing with 34 points in 18 playoff games. Oshawa struggled to find an answer to London’s relentless offense, and their goaltending simply couldn’t keep pace with the Knights’ relentless attack.

Now, a year later, the Generals are hungry for redemption. They’ve made adjustments, added depth, and refined their approach, hoping to avoid a repeat of last season’s heartbreak.

How They Got Here in 2025

Both teams have steamrolled through the playoffs, proving why they deserve to be in the final.

London Knights

London continues to be an OHL powerhouse, sweeping the Kitchener Rangers in the Western Conference final. In fact, the Knights are riding an incredible 17-game playoff win streak, dating back to last season.

Their offense has remained elite, led by Cowan, who has eight goals and 27 points in 12 playoff games. Defenseman Sam Dickinson, a San Jose Sharks prospect, has been a crucial presence on the blue line, shutting down opposing top scorers while contributing offensively. Meanwhile, goaltender Austin Elliott has held firm, sporting a 2.31 GAA and a .904 save percentage.

Oshawa Generals

Oshawa matched London’s dominance by sweeping the Barrie Colts in the Eastern Conference final. The Generals boast three of the top five playoff scorers, making them a far more dangerous team than they were last year.

Colby Barlow (13 goals, 29 points), Luca Marrelli (six goals, 31 points), and Beckett Sennecke (12 goals, 27 points) have been instrumental in Oshawa’s success. Goaltender Jacob Oster has been solid between the pipes, earning 12 wins with a 2.82 GAA.

This version of the Generals has more offensive firepower and a stronger defensive core compared to last year’s squad. Will it be enough to finally take down London?

Regular Season Matchups

The two teams met twice during the regular season, splitting their matchups:

December 6, 2024: Oshawa defeated London 5-3 in a statement win on the road.

March 2, 2025: London edged Oshawa 4-3, showcasing their resilience.

These matchups suggest this final will be far more competitive than last year’s one-sided sweep.

Players to Watch

London Knights

Easton Cowan (F) – London’s star forward, Cowan is a clutch player with elite playmaking skills.

Sam Dickinson (D) – two-way defenseman who plays a pivotal role in London’s structure.

Austin Elliott (G) – If Elliott keeps up his form, London will be nearly impossible to beat.

Oshawa Generals

Luca Marrelli (F, Columbus Blue Jackets prospect) – Leads the playoffs in points and is a nightmare for defenders.

Colby Barlow (F, Winnipeg Jets prospect) – A pure goal-scorer with an incredible finishing touch.

Jacob Oster (G) – The key to Oshawa’s defensive success—his ability to shut down London’s offensive weapons will determine this series.

Final Thoughts

This OHL final will be nothing short of spectacular. Oshawa is better prepared than last year, with more depth and confidence. London, however, remains the gold standard of the league, carrying their perfect playoff record into the championship series.

Can the Generals finally dethrone the Knights? Or will London continue their dynastic run? Buckle up—this series will be a thrilling battle for OHL supremacy.

Who do you think will come out on top?

25 CHL players power Canada to a historic back-to-back gold medal at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
The CHL was the only development hockey league in the world to feature one player on eight of the 10 participating countries at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship

FRISCO, TX — Tonight, 25 Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players proudly won gold as Canada topped the podium at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship by defeating Sweden 7-0 in Saturday’s final in Frisco, Texas. The victory gave Canada consecutive gold medals at the IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship for the first time in their program’s history. 

Having not allowed a goal over the last 144 minutes and 53 seconds of action he saw, Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads / OHL) recorded his second shutout of the tournament by stopping all 28 shots he faced in Saturday’s final. Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds / OHL) led all skaters in the gold medal game with two goals, while Jackson Smith (Tri-City Americans / WHL), Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL), Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Braeden Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL), and Jack Nesbitt (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) also lit the lamp for Canada.

Named the Top Goalie of the tournament, Ivankovic led all netminders in goals-against average (1.05), save percentage (.960), and shutouts (2) during the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship. In front of Ivankovic, Canada’s blueline contributed 12 goals at the U18s, led by Villeneuve (4G-4A in 7 GP) and Smith (4G-1A in 7 GP), who both recorded four goals in seven games, the most of any defencemen in the tournament. Canadian captain Cootes (6G-6A in 7 GP) led the team in scoring with 12 points through Canada’s undefeated run to a second straight gold medal. Following the gold-medal game, Ivankovic and Martin (3G-8A in 7 GP) were named to the tournament’s Media All-Star Team.

Although his country fell short against Canada in Saturday’s final, Swedish forward Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) put together an impressive performance in Texas as he was identified as the MVP and the Top Forward of the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship. Leading the tournament with 18 points (10G-8A) in seven games, Ekberg established a new single-tournament record for points by a Swede at the U18 World Championship by besting the previous mark of 16. In addition to being one of three CHL players to be selected to the tournament’s Media All-Star Team, Ekberg’s 10 goals were the most of any player at the tournament and now stand as the most-ever by a Swede at this event.

Earlier during the day, Blake Fiddler (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL) and the United States earned bronze by defeating Slovakia 4-3 in overtime. Playing in his hometown of Frisco, Texas, Fiddler registered a pair of goals and added an assist over his seven games at the tournament.

In total, 27 players from the CHL proudly took home medals at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship (see complete list below), including 13 from the Western Hockey League (WHL), 10 players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and four from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). 

A total of 37 CHL players participated in the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship (see complete list below), which was the most of any development hockey league in the world. The CHL was the only development hockey league in the world to feature one player on eight of the 10 participating countries at the tournament, showcasing the league’s global impact and commitment to developing elite talent.

Among the 37 CHL players who participated in the event, 25 of them were listed in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, including Czech defenceman Radim Mrtka (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL), Slovakian forward Andreas Straka (Québec Remparts / QMJHL), and German captain Carlos Händel (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL). There were also nine CHL skaters eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft who competed in the tournament, including seven members of Team Canada (Carels, Villeneuve, Di Iorio, Lin, Roobroeck, Rudolph, Verhoeff).

Following Canada’s gold medal victory on Saturday, Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Tyler Hopkins (Kingston Frontenacs / OHL), Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL), and Cameron Schmidt (Vancouver Giants / WHL) joined Ivankovic, Erie Otters (OHL) defenceman Matthew Schaefer, and Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) forward Caleb Desnoyers as the only players to ever win gold for Team Canada at the U17s, U18s, and Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

Team Canada was led by two-time Stanley Cup champion and Guelph Storm head coach Cory Stillman (Guelph Storm / OHL), who served as the squad’s bench boss. He was joined by associate coach Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL), assistant coach Mathieu Turcotte (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL), and goaltending consultant Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL). 

Since 2002, Canada has now won six gold medals at the IIHF U18 World Championship (2003, 2008, 2013, 2021, 2024, 2025), in addition to one silver (2005) and four bronze (2012, 2014, 2015, 2023).

37 CHL PLAYERS COMPETED AT THE 2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

GOLD – CANADA (25)
(G) Lucas Beckman (Baie-Comeau Drakkar / QMJHL)
(G) Burke Hood (Vancouver Giants / WHL)
(G) Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads / OHL)
(D) Quinn Beauchesne (Guelph Storm / OHL)
(D) Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars / WHL)
(D) Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL)
(D) Ryan Lin (Vancouver Giants / WHL)
(D) Daxon Rudolph (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL)
(D) Jackson Smith (Tri-City Americans / WHL)
(D) Keaton Verhoeff (Victoria Royals / WHL)
(D) Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL)
(F) Braeden Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL)
(F) Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs / OHL)
(F) Alessandro Di Iorio (Sarnia Sting / OHL)
(F) Matthew Gard (Red Deer Rebels / WHL)
(F) Tyler Hopkins (Kingston Frontenacs / OHL)
(F) Lev Katzin (Guelph Storm / OHL)
(F) Liam Kilfoil (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL)
(F) Ben Kindel (Calgary Hitmen / WHL)
(F) Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds / OHL)
(F) Jack Nesbitt (Windsor Spitfires / OHL)
(F) Cole Reschny (Victoria Royals / WHL)
(F) Ryan Roobroeck (Niagara IceDogs / OHL)
(F) Cameron Schmidt (Vancouver Giants / WHL)
(F) Lukas Sawchyn (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL)

General Manager – Scott Walker (Guelph Storm / OHL)
Head Coach – Cory Stillman (Guelph Storm / OHL)
Associate Coach – Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL)
Assistant Coach – Mathieu Turcotte (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL)
Goaltending Consultant – Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL)
Video coach – Matthew Smith (Acadie-Bathurst Titan / QMJHL)
Athletic therapists – Andy Brown (Owen Sound Attack / OHL) and Terence Robertson (Red Deer Rebels / WHL)
Team physician – Dr. Nolan Rau (Kelowna Rockets / WHL)
Strength and Conditioning Coach – Sean Young (Ottawa 67’s / OHL)

SILVER – SWEDEN (1)
(F) Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s / OHL)

BRONZE – UNITED STATES (1)
(D) Blake Fiddler (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL)

CZECHIA (4)
(D) Radim Mrtka (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL)
(F) Dominik Pavlík (Moose Jaw Warriors / WHL)
(F) Matej Pekar (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL)
(F) Vít Záhejský (Kamloops Blazers / WHL)

GERMANY (3)
(D) Max Bleicher (Owen Sound Attack / OHL)
(D) Carlos Händel (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL)
(F) David Lewandowski (Saskatoon Blades / WHL)

LATVIA (1)
(F) Karlis Flugins (Flint Firebirds / OHL)

SLOVAKIA (1)
(F) Andreas Straka (Québec Remparts / QMJHL)

SWITZERLAND (1)
(D) Elia Pedrotti (Sherbrooke Phoenix / QMJHL)

Owen Griffin – Oshawa Generals – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’10”170Apr 8, 2007CR6th 202370th NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLOshawa Generals61156
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Owen Griffin of the Oshawa Generals. Photo by Tim Cornett/OHL Images

Owen Griffin has emerged as a promising talent in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), playing for the Oshawa Generals. After a challenging rookie season, Griffin has bounced back in his sophomore year, proving his ability to adapt and thrive in high-level competition.

A Season of Growth with the Oshawa Generals

Griffin was selected sixth overall in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection by the Generals. His rookie season was a struggle, as he managed only six points throughout the campaign. However, his second season has been a different story. Griffin started strong, and has since maintained a steady offensive presence. He finished the season with 22 goals and 29 assists through 62 games. More importantly, he has raised his game to a new level in these playoffs with 15 goals and 11 assists through 16 games.

Griffin is known for his above average playmaking ability and hockey IQ. Despite his 5-foot-10, 170-pound frame, he is fearless in battling for pucks in tight areas. His puck handling and shooting skills could make him an offensive threat. Ranked 197th NHL Central Scouting’s mid-term rankings, he climbed all the way to 70th on their final rankings (both among North American skaters), suggesting concerns about his size have also diminished.

One of Griffin’s standout qualities is his relentless motor. He excels in forechecking, using his speed and awareness to disrupt plays and create scoring opportunities. His defensive positioning is another strong suit, as he consistently places himself in passing lanes and supports teammates in transition.

Griffin is projected to be selected in the fourth or fifth round of the 2025 NHL Draft. While he may not have the flashiness of some top prospects, his hard-nosed playing style and ability to generate offense make him an intriguing pick for teams looking for a reliable two-way forward. If he continues his strong postseason performance, he could rise on draft boards before the big day.

FRONTENACS’ KORY COOPER WINS JIM GREGORY OHL GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Kory Cooper of the Kingston Frontenacs is the 2024-25 recipient of the Jim Gregory OHL General Manager of the Year Award.

In his fourth season as General Manger in Kingston, Cooper helped construct the fifth 40-win season in Frontenacs history as they played to an overall record of 40-20-5-3. He made a pair of high impact trades leading into the 2024-25 season with the acquisitions of veteran centreman Cedrick Guindon from the Owen Sound Attack as well as eventual 90-point producer Tuomas Uronen from the Ottawa 67’s, who came off a campaign limited to just 11 games at the time of the trade. The Fronts were powered by former second round draft choices Jacob Battaglia and captain Quinton Burns while offseason recruit Emil Pieniniemi also made an impact, recording a point-per-game from the blueline.

“I am honoured to be selected as the recipient of the Jim Gregory Award for the 2024-25 season,” said Cooper. “Mr. Gregory was someone who helped evolve and shape the General Manager’s role into what it is today. To receive an award named in his honour is truly meaningful.

“It is my belief that this award is a team award, and I can only be successful by surrounding myself with good people,” he added. “I am surrounded by an incredible group of individuals that should all be proud of their contributions to this accomplishment.”

One of the highlights of the Frontenacs’ season came in the form of a 16-game winning streak at Slush Puppie Place, a new franchise record that spanned from December 8th through March 14th. Cooper’s Frontenacs proved to be one of the league’s best on home ice, finishing the season with a 25-7-1-1 record as hosts.

The second half saw the addition of veterans in goaltender Charlie Schenkel from the Soo Greyhounds and a former Memorial Cup champion trio of Ethan Hay, Joey Willis and Will Bishop acquired from the Saginaw Spirit as the Frontenacs would go on to reach a deciding Game 7 of their second round series against the Barrie Colts.

Cooper was selected as winner of the annual honour after he and finalists Matt Turek of the Brantford Bulldogs, Bill Bowler of the Windsor Spitfires and Mark Hunter of the London Knights finished as front-runners in voting by OHL General Managers. The final winner was decided upon by a committee consisting of media representatives from a market in each of the OHL’s four divisions, a representative from NHL Central Scouting, as well as a representative from the Ontario Hockey League.

“I could not be happier for a more deserving individual,” said Frontenacs President and Governor Doug Springer. “Kory works tirelessly to make our organization better on and off the ice. Additionally, there isn’t a person I know that cares more about his players than Coop, and I admire his commitment to providing the best experience for them. I am proud to call him the General Manager of the Kingston Frontenacs.”

Originally from Winsloe, PEI, Cooper enjoyed a four-year OHL playing career as a goaltender with the Belleville Bulls and Sudbury Wolves from 1994-98. After eight years of professional hockey, Cooper transitioned into coaching where he served as Goaltending Coach with the Frontenacs from 2005-10 before stints with the Mississauga Steelheads and the AHL’s Belleville Senators. After a season as Assistant General Manager in Kingston, he was named General Manager of the Fronts in July 2021.

First announced in August 2019, the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award is presented annually to the General Manager who best excelled in his role during the regular season. The award honours the memory of one of the game’s great builders in former long-time NHL executive Jim Gregory who passed away in October 2019 at the age of 83.

Cooper follows previous award winners in Adam Dennis of the North Bay Battalion in 2024, Mark Hunter of the London Knights in 2023, Steve Staios of the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2022 and James Boyd of the Ottawa 67’s in 2020. He’ll be formally presented with the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award at the OHL’s Awards Ceremony at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June.

For a complete list of award winners, click here.