The Ontario Hockey League playoffs delivered thrilling action on April 2, 2025, with pivotal games shaping the first-round series. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights, key performances, and what lies ahead.
Saginaw Spirit vs. Erie Otters The Saginaw Spirit kept their playoff hopes alive with a dramatic 3-2 overtime victory against the Erie Otters. Zayne Parekh emerged as the hero, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime. Earlier, Calem Mangone and Parekh had netted goals in the second period to give Saginaw a lead, while Malcolm Spence’s last-minute goal for Erie forced overtime. The Otters still lead the series 2-1, with Game 4 set for April 3 at Erie Insurance Arena.
Windsor Spitfires vs. Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds Windsor Spitfires took a commanding 3-1 series lead with a 4-1 win over the Greyhounds. Noah Morneau and Ilya Protas each scored twice, with Protas also adding an empty-net goal. Joey Costanzo’s 23 saves secured the victory for Windsor. The Spitfires will look to close out the series in Game 5 on April 5.
London Knights vs. Owen Sound Attack The London Knights continued their dominance, defeating the Owen Sound Attack 7-4 to take a 3-0 series lead. Sam O’Reilly and Easton Cowan each scored twice, including shorthanded goals, showcasing the Knights’ depth and resilience.
Flint Firebirds vs. Kitchener Rangers Flint Firebirds bounced back with a 2-0 shutout victory over the Kitchener Rangers, narrowing the series deficit to 2-1. Goalie Nathan Day was the star, stopping all 38 shots he faced.
Series Leaders
London Knights lead Owen Sound Attack 3-0.
Windsor Spitfires lead Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 3-1.
Erie Otters lead Saginaw Spirit 2-1.
Kitchener Rangers lead Flint Firebirds 2-1.
Upcoming Schedule
April 3, 2025:
Saginaw Spirit at Erie Otters (Game 4)
Owen Sound Attack at London Knights (Game 4)
Sudbury Wolves at Kingston Frontenacs (Game 4)
April 5, 2025:
Windsor Spitfires at Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (Game 5, if necessary)
Erie Otters at Saginaw Spirit (Game 5, if necessary)
The playoffs are heating up, and every game is a must-watch as teams battle for the coveted J. Ross Robertson Cup. Stay tuned for more updates as the action unfolds!
TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the March edition of the CHL Team of the Month presented by CCM for the 2024-25 regular season (only regular-season games from March were considered).
For a fourth time this season, the most of any player in the CHL during the 2024-25 campaign, 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna of the No.3-ranked Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) has been named to the CHL Team of the Month. Despite playing in just five regular-season games in March, the 17-year-old from Whitehorse, Yukon, co-led the CHL in scoring with 23 points, having averaged a CHL-best 4.6 points per game during the month. During the Tigers’ 7-3 victory over the Red Deer Rebels on March 15, McKenna established a new single-game career-high by tallying seven points (3G-4A), along with scoring his third hat-trick of 2024-25. McKenna ultimately capped off the 2024-25 regular season by riding a 40-game point streak, which ranks as the second-longest point streak in a single season in the CHL since 2000. The reigning CHL and WHL Rookie of the Year also finished the regular season with nine consecutive games with two or more points, having amassed 32 multi-point outings over his final 40 regular-season contests in 2024-25. Over the year, McKenna registered a CHL-best 88 assists this season, while his 129 points ranked third among all scorers across the Canadian Hockey League. In recognition of his stellar season, McKenna was named a 2024-25 WHL First Team All-Star from the Eastern Conference on Tuesday. Entering Wednesday, through three postseason games in 2025, McKenna leads all skaters in both the WHL and CHL with 11 points (1G-10A), having extended his active point streak to 43 straight games. Taken first overall in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, the reigning WHL and CHL Rookie of the Year captured gold for Team Canada at both the 2024 IIHF World U18 Championship and the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Earlier this season, at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, McKenna became the eighth youngest player to ever suit up for Team Canada at a World Juniors. Last season, following the 2023-24 campaign, McKenna was named a member of both the CHL’s Third All-Star and All-Rookie Teams after he registered 97 points in 61 games as a 16-year-old.
Having shared the CHL scoring lead with 23 points in seven regular-season games last month, Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas of the No.10-ranked Windsor Spitfires (OHL) has been selected to the CHL Team of the Month for the first time in his career. Having registered a point in all seven of his appearances in March, the 18-year-old from Vitebsk, Belarus, recorded six multi-point outings, including matching a single-game career-high with five points (0G-5A) against the Sarnia Sting in what was Protas’ final contest of the 2024-25 regular season on March 20. In 61 regular-season games with the Spitfires, Protas amassed 124 points (50G-74A) this season, which ranked second in the OHL and was the fourth most in the CHL in 2024-25. By scoring 50 goals this season, Protas registered the eighth 50-goal season in Spitfires history, joining such names as Matthew Maggio (2022-23), Steve Ott (2000-01), and Ernie Godden (1980-81). The 18-year-old also became the highest goal-scoring import player in the Spitfires’ franchise history. Since February 17, including postseason games, Protas has been one of the hottest skaters in the CHL – recording 13 multi-point games over his last 16 appearances and tallying a CHL-best 48 points (14G-34A) over that stretch. As of Wednesday, through three playoff games in 2025, Protas leads the OHL with eight assists and ranks tied for second among postseason scorers in the OHL with eight points (0G-8A). Drafted third overall by Windsor in the 2024 CHL Import Draft, Protas was chosen in the third round (75th overall) by the Washington Capitals in the 2024 NHL Draft last summer.
With a QMJHL-leading 19 points over 10 regular-season games in March, New Jersey Devils prospect Cam Squires of the Cape Breton Eagles (QMJHL) is making his first appearance in the CHL Team of the Month. Over the last month, in his 10 regular-season contests, Squires was held off the scoresheet on just one occasion, registering six multi-point outings, including his second hat-trick of the season on March 22 against the Saint John Sea Dogs. With 13 assists in March, the 19-year-old from Charlottetown, P.E.I., led all QMJHL skaters in that department, and he closed out his 2024-25 regular season by scoring a goal in three straight games. By doing the latter, Squires reached the 100-goal plateau in his QMJHL career. He now sits at 103 goals, 142 assists, and 245 points in 255 career appearances in the regular season over his four-year career in the QMJHL. March has been a particularly good month historically for Squires, who has recorded 70 points in 46 career games during the month. As he closed out 2024-25, the Eagles forward also posted new single-season career highs in assists (51) and points (75) as he led his team in scoring for the second consecutive season. Entering Wednesday, Squires has tallied a pair of assists through three postseason games in the 2025 QMJL Playoffs. Drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the fourth round (122nd overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Squires signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Devils back in July 2024. The 19-year-old was Cape Breton’s second-round pick, 22nd overall, in the 2021 QMJHL Entry Draft. He was named QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year for the 2022-23 season.
Following a month where he led all defencemen in the CHL with 18 points in 10 regular-season games, San Jose Sharks prospect Sam Dickinson of the No.2-ranked London Knights (OHL) has been named to the CHL Team of the Month for the second time during the 2024-25 season. Having registered a point in nine of his 10 appearances to close out the regular season, the 18-year-old from Toronto, Ont., collected six multi-point outings, including a trio of three-point contests on March 5 (1G-2A @ Brantford), March 11 (2G-1A @ Guelph), and March 21 (2G-1A vs. Windsor). Following his strong month, Dickinson wrapped up the 2024-25 campaign with 91 points in 55 games, which sits only behind Saginaw Spirit blueliner Zayne Parekh (107 points) for scoring by a defenceman in the CHL this season. Dickinson’s 91 points in 2024-25 rank as the 10th highest point total by a defenceman in a single season since 2000. The San Jose Sharks prospect also set a new London Knights single-season record for the most points (91) by a blueliner, surpassing the previous mark (87) that was held by Edmonton Oilers rearguard Evan Bouchard (2017-18) and Rick Corriveau (1990-91). Entering Wednesday, Dickinson ranked second among CHL defencemen with seven points (3G-4A) in three playoff games in 2025 – just one point shy of current leader Tyson Jugnauth (9 points) of the Portland Winterhawks. Acquired by the London Knights from the Niagara IceDogs after he was the fourth overall pick of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Dickinson has gone on to be named to the OHL’s first all-rookie team in 2022-23 and a second team all-star in 2023-24 while winning an OHL championship. He was selected by the San Jose Sharks with the 11th overall pick of the 2024 NHL Draft and he captained Team Red at the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in Moncton, N.B. Earlier this season, Dickinson was one of three London Knights who represented Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. Dickinson previously earned gold for his country at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and he captained Canada Black at the 2022 World U17 Hockey Challenge, where he was voted to the World U17 All-Star Team.
Having shared the scoring lead among WHL defencemen through nine regular-season contests in March, Vancouver Canucks prospect Sawyer Mynio of the No.9-ranked Calgary Hitmen (WHL) is making his first appearance in the CHL Team of the Month in 2024-25. The 19-year-old from Kamloops, B.C., was held off the scoresheet just once over his nine contests to close out the 2024-25 season, as he strung together an eight-game point streak to start the month. With nine assists over those nine games, Mynio led all WHL blueliners in that category during that stretch of time. Over the last five weeks, it seems Mynio has really caught his stride, becoming one of the Hitmen’s most consistent scorers offensively. Specifically, in 15 games (including playoffs) since February 22, Mynio has tallied 17 points (4G-13A) and ranks tied for second on the team in scoring over that stretch. Entering Wednesday, the 19-year-old has three assists in three postseason appearances during the 2025 WHL Playoffs presented by Nutrien. Mynio finished the 2024-25 regular season with 14 goals and 31 assists over the 49 games he played with both the Seattle Thunderbirds and Calgary Hitmen. At the beginning of January, Mynio was acquired by the Hitmen from the Thunderbirds in a trade. Earlier this season, the Vancouver Canucks prospect also represented his country for the first-time at a IIHF event as he suited up for Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa. Drafted by the Seattle Thunderbirds in the third round (63rd overall) of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, Mynio has piled up 39 goals and 101 assists for 140 points and a +63 rating in 227 career regular games in the WHL. The Hitmen rearguard has also played in more than 40 playoff games during his WHL career, having previously won an Ed Chynoweth Cup and participated in the 2023 Memorial Cup with the Seattle Thunderbirds during the 2022-23 campaign.
Holding a perfect 5-0-0-0 record in his five regular-season contests in March, goaltender Mathis Rousseau of the No.1-ranked Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) is making his first appearance in the CHL Team of the Month this season. Over his five starts to cap off the 2024-25 campaign, Rousseau registered a .933 save percentage and a 1.58 goals-against average, the latter of which ranked first among all goalies in the QMJHL (minimum of 75 minutes played). By turning aside 18-of-21 shots on March 1 in a 4-3 victory against the Blainville-Boisbriand, Rousseau secured his 100th career victory in the QMJHL – becoming one of just 18 netminders in the history of the QMJHL to have reached this plateau. Wrapping up the 2024-25 campaign with 104 career wins over his career, Rousseau ranks in a tie for 11th on the all-time wins list in QMJHL history. Including his two playoff starts to date in 2025, the 20-year-old from Boisbriand, Québec, has won eight in a row for the Wildcats, and he has only suffered one loss since the beginning of February. Rousseau completed the 2024-25 season with a 20-20-5-0 record, 2.88 goals-against average, .905 save percentage & two shutouts in 45 games played between both the Halifax Mooseheads and the Moncton Wildcats. Acquired by Moncton from Halifax at the beginning of January, the 20-year-old has posted some impressive numbers with his new club – registering an 11-4-0-0 record, a 2.33 goals-against average, and a pair of shutouts in 15 games with the Wildcats. Just last season, during the 2023-24 campaign, Rousseau was a finalist for the Patrick-Roy Trophy as the QMJHL’s Top Goaltender after he led the league with a save percentage of .925 as a member of the Halifax Mooseheads. Drafted by Halifax in the fourth round (61st overall) of the 2020 QMJHL Entry Draft, Rousseau holds a 2.70 goals-against average and a .911 save percentage in 170 appearances in the regular season over his four-year QMJHL career. In addition to his success with the Mooseheads in 2023-24, Rousseau also represented Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) playoffs delivered another thrilling night of hockey on April 1, 2025. Here’s a recap of the games, the standout goal scorers, and a look at the series standings and upcoming matchups.
Brantford Bulldogs vs. North Bay Battalion The Bulldogs continued their dominance with a 4-3 overtime victory, thanks to Marek Vanacker’s two-goal performance, including the game-winner. Brantford now leads the series 3-0
Kingston Frontenacs vs. Sudbury Wolves Cedrick Guindon shone for Kingston, contributing a goal and an assist in their 4-2 win. The Frontenacs hold a commanding 3-0 series lead.
London Knights vs. Owen Sound Attack Easton Cowan and Sam O’Reilly were unstoppable, each scoring twice and adding two assists in London’s 7-4 triumph. The Knights are up 3-0 in the series.
Niagara IceDogs vs. Barrie Colts Alex Assadourian and Kevin He each netted two goals, leading the IceDogs to a 6-4 victory. Barrie still leads the series 2-1.
Flint Firebirds vs. Kitchener Rangers Matthew Wang and Kaden Pitre scored crucial third-period goals, while Nathan Day made 38 saves to secure Flint’s 2-0 shutout win. Kitchener leads the series 2-1.
Oshawa Generals vs. Brampton Steelheads Owen Griffin’s hat trick and assist powered Oshawa to a 7-5 victory. The Generals now lead the series 2-1.
Saginaw Spirit vs. Erie Otters Zayne Parekh scored twice, including the overtime winner, as Saginaw edged Erie 3-2. Erie leads the series 2-1.
Series Leaders
Brantford Bulldogs, Kingston Frontenacs, and London Knights are on the brink of advancing, each leading their series 3-0.
Other series remain tightly contested, with Barrie, Kitchener, Oshawa, and Erie holding slim leads.
Upcoming Games
The playoff excitement continues on April 3, with pivotal Game 4 matchups:
Brantford vs. North Bay
Kingston vs. Sudbury
London vs. Owen Sound
Niagara vs. Barrie
Flint vs. Kitchener
Oshawa vs. Brampton
Saginaw vs. Erie
The intensity is building as teams fight to keep their championship dreams alive. Stay tuned for more unforgettable moments in the OHL playoffs!
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) playoffs are heating up, and March 31 delivered some electrifying action on the ice. Here’s a breakdown of the scores, standout performances, and what’s next in the playoff schedule.
Game Highlights:
Barrie Colts vs. Niagara IceDogs The Barrie Colts secured a thrilling 7-5 victory over the Niagara IceDogs, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven series. Anthony Romani was the star of the night, netting a hat trick for the Colts. Beau Jelsma added two goals, while Grayson Tiller and Emil Hemming contributed singles. For the IceDogs, Ivan Galiyanov scored twice, with Mathieu Paris and Andrei Loshko also finding the back of the net.
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds vs. Windsor Spitfires Caeden Carlisle emerged as the hero for the Greyhounds, scoring the overtime winner in a nail-biting 3-2 victory over the Windsor Spitfires. Justin Cloutier and Travis Hayes scored in regulation for the Greyhounds, while Carson Woodall and Liam Greentree kept the Spitfires in the game. The series now stands at 2-1 in favor of Windsor.
Upcoming Games:
Barrie Colts vs. Niagara IceDogs: Game 3 is set for April 1 in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds vs. Windsor Spitfires: Game 4 will take place on April 2 in Sault Ste. Marie.
Goal Scorers to Watch:
Anthony Romani (Barrie Colts): With five goals in the postseason, Romani is proving to be a key player for the Colts.
Caeden Carlisle (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds): His clutch overtime goal has reignited the Greyhounds’ hopes in the series.
The OHL playoffs are showcasing the grit and determination of young hockey talent, and the excitement is far from over. Stay tuned for more thrilling matchups as teams battle for the coveted J. Ross Robertson Cup!
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) playoffs are in full swing, and Sunday, March 30, 2025, delivered a series of electrifying games that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the action-packed night:
Kingston Frontenacs vs. Sudbury Wolves In a double-overtime thriller, the Kingston Frontenacs emerged victorious with a 4-3 win over the Sudbury Wolves. Gage Heyes scored the game-winning goal at 2:50 of the second overtime period, capping off an intense battle. Cedrick Guindon was a standout for Kingston, netting two goals in regulation, while Nathan Villeneuve shone for Sudbury with two goals and an assist. The Frontenacs now lead the series 2-0 as they head to Sudbury for Game 3.
Brampton Steelheads vs. Oshawa Generals The Brampton Steelheads tied their series against the Oshawa Generals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory. Despite being heavily outshot 47-24, Brampton’s goaltender Jack Ivankovic delivered a stellar performance with 46 saves. Luke Misa contributed a goal and an assist, helping the Steelheads bounce back after losing the series opener.
London Knights vs. Owen Sound Attack The London Knights continued their dominant playoff run, defeating the Owen Sound Attack 6-3 to take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Denver Barkey was the star of the night, scoring twice and adding three assists. The Knights’ offensive depth proved too much for the Attack, who will need to regroup before Game 3.
Kitchener Rangers vs. Flint Firebirds The Kitchener Rangers cruised to a 6-1 victory over the Flint Firebirds, extending their series lead to 2-0. Jack Pridham led the charge with two goals and two assists, while the Rangers’ defense stifled the Firebirds’ offense. Flint will need to find answers quickly as the series shifts to their home ice.
Brantford Bulldogs vs. North Bay Battalion The Brantford Bulldogs blanked the North Bay Battalion 3-0, thanks to a stellar performance by goaltender Ryerson Leenders, who made 21 saves. Nick Lardis scored twice in the third period, solidifying the Bulldogs’ 2-0 series lead. The Battalion will look to turn things around in Game 3 on their home turf.
As the playoffs progress, the intensity and stakes continue to rise. With each team fighting for the coveted J. Ross Robertson Cup, fans can expect more unforgettable moments in the coming games. Which team are you rooting for in this year’s playoffs? Let me know!
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, March 30, 2025.
Otters’ Pano Fimis Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Pano Fimis of the Erie Otters is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, registering five goals, three assists and eight points in two victories.
Helping the Otters take a 2-0 series lead over the Saginaw Spirit in Round 1 of the OHL Playoffs, Fimis scored twice on Thursday night to earn first-star honours in an 8-5 victory. He found the scoresheet again on Saturday, recording a club playoff record six points including a hat trick and three assists to once again earn first-star honours as Erie secured a 9-5 road win.
The 20-year-old overage centreman recorded 32 goals, 54 assists, and 86 points in 68 games played in Erie this season, also leading the league in the faceoff circle with a 63.2 percent success rate. Originally selected second overall by the Niagara IceDogs in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, the Richmond Hill, Ont. native has appeared in 245 regular season contests between the IceDogs and the Otters, tallying 87 goals, 166 assists and 253 points.
Also considered for the award this week, Los Angeles Kings prospect Liam Greentree of the Windsor Spitfires registered seven points (3-4-7) in two wins, while Philadelphia Flyers prospect Denver Barkey of the London Knights tallied three goals and four assists in a pair of victories.
2024-25 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs: Mar. 24 – Mar. 30: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Bulldogs’ Ryerson Leenders Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Buffalo Sabres prospect Ryerson Leenders of the Brantford Bulldogs is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the fourth time this season, going 2-0 including a shutout, along with a 1.50 goals-against average, and a .944 save percentage.
Helping Brantford take a 2-0 series lead over North Bay in Round 1 of the OHL Playoffs, Leenders made 51 saves last week. He stopped 30 of 33 shots on Friday as the Bulldogs defeated the Battalion 6-3. On Sunday, he earned first-star honours with his first career OHL playoff shutout, making 21 saves in a 3-0 victory.
An 18-year-old from Nanticoke, Ont., Leenders played to a 31-14-3-0 regular season record, with a 3.11 goals-against average and .910 save percentage in 48 games played. The former second-round (32nd overall) pick by Mississauga in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection is now in his third OHL season, owning a career mark of 67-46-10-0 with a 3.21 goals-against average, .903 save percentage and four shutouts over 129 regular season games. Leenders was selected in the seventh round (202nd overall) by Buffalo in the 2024 NHL Draft last summer.
Also considered for the award this week, Joey Costanzo of the Windsor Spitfires went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .927 save percentage, while Charlie Schenkel of the Kingston Frontenacs was also a standout in the crease, going 2-0 along with a 1.68 goals-against average and .929 save percentage.
2024-25 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs: 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)
Spitfires’ Ethan Garden Named OHL Rookie of the Week
Windsor Spitfires forward Ethan Garden is the OHL Rookie of the Week, registering a goal, two assists and three points in two games played.
Helping Windsor take a 2-0 series lead over the Soo Greyhounds in Round 1 of the 2025 OHL Playoffs, Garden recorded an assist in Thursday’s 7-2 home win. The Belleville, MI native found the scoresheet again on Saturday, adding a goal and an assist to earn third-star honours in a 7-1 victory.
Selected by the Spitfires in the ninth round (164th overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Detroit Little Caesars U15 AAA program, the 5-foot-8, 166lb. forward registered six goals, eight assists, and 14 points in 55 regular season contests.
Also considered for the award this week, Graydon Jones of the Saginaw Spirit recorded three assists in two games played.
2024-25 OHL Rookies of the Week – Playoffs: March. 24 – March. 30: Ethan Garden (Windsor Spitfires)
Evan Passmore of the Barrie Colts. Photo by OHL Images.
Evan Passmore, is an old school type of defenseman from Elmira, Ontario, and has scouts asking: at what point to you draft a physical, hard to play against, shut down defenseman? Born on December 5, 2006, Passmore currently plays for the Barrie Colts in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Standing tall at 6’4″ and weighing 210 pounds, he is a physically imposing player who has shown significant potential as a shut down, physical defenseman as he develops his game.
Career Overview
Passmore’s journey in hockey began in his hometown, where he honed his skills in local leagues before being drafted by the Barrie Colts in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. Selected in the 8th round, 153rd overall, Passmore has worked tirelessly to prove himself as a valuable asset to his team.
In his rookie season with the Colts, Passmore played 53 games, recording four assists. While his offensive contributions were modest, his defensive capabilities and physical presence on the ice did not go unnoticed. In his second season, he showed improvement, tallying three goals and eight assists in 62 games
Passmore’s performances have earned him recognition as a prospect for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Ranked 55th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, he is considered a player with the potential of a stay-at-home defenseman at the professional level.
Scouting Report
Passmore’s game is built on a foundation of physicality, defensive reliability, and smart decision-making. Here is a detailed scouting report on his strengths and areas for improvement:
Strengths
Physical Presence: Passmore’s size and strength make him a formidable opponent in one-on-one battles. He is unmovable in front of the net, effectively clearing the crease and protecting his goaltender.
Defensive Awareness: He demonstrates excellent positioning and anticipation and excellent gap control forcing the opposition to the outside. His ability to read the game allows him to disrupt opponents early.
Puck Retrieval and Breakouts: Passmore is adept at scanning the ice during puck retrievals and executing clean breakouts though some improvement would be beneficial. He is composed under pressure and usually makes the smart play.
Consistency: While not flashy, Passmore is a steady and reliable presence on the blue line. He rarely makes mistakes and contributes to his team’s overall defensive stability and can be counted on in PK situations or protecting the lead late in a game.
Areas for Improvement
Offensive Contributions: At this point, we know what Passmore is. Adding in some offense, whether it be in production himself or simply improving on joining the rush could use some improvement.
Skating: Although his size is an asset, it can also be a limitation in terms of agility and speed. Improving his footwork and acceleration would enhance his ability to keep up with faster opponents.
Future Outlook
Evan Passmore’s combination of size, defensive acumen, and work ethic makes him an intriguing prospect for the NHL. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he has the potential to become a reliable shutdown defenseman at the pro level.
Toronto, ON – With the 2025 OHL Cup Championship Final underway, the Ontario Hockey League has announced the seven recipients of 2025 U16 AAA Player of the Year Awards for players representing the four Ontario Hockey Federation Member Partners including the ALLIANCE, Greater Toronto Hockey League, Northern Ontario Hockey Association, and both the Ontario Minor Hockey Association’s East and West regions, along with Hockey Eastern Ontario and Hockey Northwestern Ontario.
“A big congratulations goes out to the recipients of this year’s awards. Thank you to the families, coaches, and teammates for their tremendous support of these remarkable players over the course of the season and throughout their minor hockey careers,” said Brodie Barrick, the OHL’s Director of Recruitment and Player Services.
“The OHL is proud to recognize all the hard work, dedication, and extraordinary accomplishments from across Ontario. We thank all players for another great season and wish them the very best of luck in their hockey and academic careers.”
The awards are presented annually to honour the U16 AAA players who best exemplify outstanding ability and the qualities of sportsmanship and leadership as selected by OHL Central Scouting and a panel of Ontario Hockey League general managers.
ALLIANCE U16 AAA Player of the Year – Jaakko Wycisk (Sun County Panthers) Jaakko Wycisk led the ALLIANCE U16 circuit in both goals (32) and points (61), leading his team to a league championship with an additional 13 points (6-7–13) in the playoffs. He’s the first Sun County player to earn the award since eventual Red Tilson Trophy winner Matthew Maggio last did so in 2018.
Past Winners: 2024 – Parker Vaughan, Elgin-Middlesex Canucks 2023 – Ryan Roobroeck, London Jr. Knights 2022 – Lucas Karmiris, Brantford 99ers 2020 – Bryce McConnell-Barker, London Jr. Knights 2019 – Deni Goure, Chatham-Kent Cyclones 2018 – Matthew Maggio, Sun County Panthers 2017 – Ryan Suzuki, London Jr. Knights 2016 – Owen Lalonde, Windsor Jr. Spitfires 2015 – Nick Suzuki, London Jr. Knights 2014 – Anthony Salinitri, Windsor Jr. Spitfires 2013 – Travis Konecny, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs 2012 – Jared McCann, London Jr. Knights Gold 2011 – Bo Horvat, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs
GTHL U16 AAA Player of the Year – Camryn Warren (Toronto Jr. Canadiens) Toronto Jr. Canadiens forward Camryn Warren was a force throughout the regular season and into the OHL Cup, where he potted a pair of OT winners in round robin play to help his team reach the OHL Cup Championship Final. Warren earns GTHL U16 AAA Player of the Year honours in his second season playing at the U16 level.
Past Winners: 2024 – Adam Valentini, Toronto Marlboros 2023 – William Moore, Toronto Marlboros 2022 – Malcolm Spence, Mississauga Senators 2020 – Pano Fimis, Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2019 – Shane Wright, Don Mills Flyers 2018 – Jamie Drysdale, Toronto Marlboros 2017 – Nick Porco, Vaughan Kings 2016 – Ryan Merkley, Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2015 – Ryan McLeod, Toronto Marlboros 2014 – Adam Mascherin, Vaughan Kings 2013 – Dylan Strome, Toronto Marlboros 2012 – Connor McDavid, Toronto Marlboros 2011 – Nick Ritchie, Toronto Marlboros
HEO U16 AAA Player of the Year – Kaden McGregor (Ottawa Valley Titans) Kaden McGregor led the HEO U16 AAA loop in scoring with 38 goals and 82 points over just 29 games, captaining the Ottawa Valley Titans to a league championship. The HEO U16 AAA Player of the Year continued his strong play at the OHL Cup, recording 11 points (3-8–11) in five games. McGregor is the first Titans player to ever receive the honour.
Past Winners: 2024 – Max Crete, Upper Canada Cyclones 2023 – Quinn Beauchesne, Nepean Raiders 2022 – Cole Beaudoin, Nepean Raiders 2020 – Cedrick Guindon, Rockland Nationals 2019 – Mason McTavish, Pembroke Lumber Kings 2018 – Josh Barnes, Cornwall Colts 2017 – Alexandre Hogue, Cumberland Grads 2016 – Paul Larabie, Nepean Raiders 2015 – Gabriel Vilardi, CIH Academy 2014 – William Bitten, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2013 – Andrew Peski, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2012 – Andrew Abou-Assaly, Ottawa Jr. 67’s 2011 – Nicholas Baptiste, Ottawa Senators
HNO U16 AAA Player of the Year – Eleazar Andrusco (Thunder Bay Kings) Thunder Bay Kings goaltender Eleazer Andrusco earns this year’s HNO U16 AAA Player of the Year honour. The 6-foot-4 product of Fort Frances, Ont. is the second straight Kings netminder to win the award.
Past Winners: 2024 – Brady Cates, Thunder Bay Kings 2023 – Carter Poddubny, Thunder Bay Kings 2020 – Brodie McLeod, Thunder Bay Kings 2019 – Jack Michaelis, Thunder Bay Kings 2018 – Michael Stubbs, Thunder Bay Kings 2017 – Christian Cicigoi, Thunder Bay Kings 2016 – Quintin Loon-Stewardson, Thunder Bay Kings 2015 – Kyle Auger, Thunder Bay Kings 2014 – Brad Belisle, Thunder Bay Kings 2013 – Zach Grzelewski, Thunder Bay Kings 2012 – Bryce Martyn, Thunder Bay Kings 2011 – Nolan Nicholas, Thunder Bay Kings
NOHA U16 AAA Player of the Year – Adam Pseniczny (Soo Jr. Greyhounds U16) Soo Jr. Greyhounds forward Adam Pseniczny is the NOHA U16 AAA Player of the Year. He led Great North Midget League rookies in scoring with 64 points (29-35–64) over 30 games and also represented Team NOHA at the 2025 OHL Cup.
Past Winners: 2024 – Mason Walker, Sudbury Jr. Wolves 2023 – Hudson Chitaroni, Soo Jr. Greyhounds 2022 – Nolan Newton, Sudbury Nickel Capitals 2020 – Connor Toms, Soo Jr. Greyhounds 2019 – Chase Stillman, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves 2018 – Pacey Schlueting, North Bay Trappers 2017 – Camaryn Baber, Soo Midget Greyhounds 2016 – Damien Giroux, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves 2015 – Cayse Ton, New Liskeard Cubs 2014 – Zach Dorval, Soo Thunder 2013 – Blake Speers, Soo Thunder 2012 – Michael Amadio, Sault Ste. Marie North Stars 2011 – Ryan Kujawinski, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves
OMHA East U16 AAA Player of the Year – Brock Chitaroni (Barrie Jr. Colts) Barrie Jr. Colts forward Brock Chitaroni is the OMHA East U16 AAA Player of the Year with 29 goals and 59 points over 31 regular season games. Chitaroni played his second season with the Colts U16 AAA program, making his second straight appearance in the OHL Cup.
Past Winners: 2024 – Maddox Dagenais, Quinte Red Devils 2023 – Owen Griffin, York-Simcoe Express 2022 – Ethan Procyszyn, North Central Predators 2020 – Donovan McCoy, Quinte Red Devils 2019 – Brenden Sirizzotti, Whitby Wildcats 2018 – Quinton Byfield, York Simcoe Express 2017 – Alex Newhook, York Simcoe Express 2016 – Aidan Dudas, North Central Predators 2015 – Brady Gilmour, Quinte Red Devils 2014 – Chris Paquette, Greater Kingston Jr Frontenacs
OMHA West U16 AAA Player of the Year – Aleksandr Sementsov (Halton Hurricanes) Aleksandr Sementsov led the OMHA with 76 points (21-55–76) over 34 games and led his Halton Hurricanes to an OMHA title, also being named OMHA West U16 AAA Player of the Year.
Past Winners: 2024 – Ethan Belchetz, Oakville Rangers 2023 – Matthew Schaefer, Halton Hurricanes 2022 – Luca Testa, Niagara North Stars 2020 – Sam Alfano, Southern Tier Admirals 2019 – Lawson Sherk, Halton Hurricanes 2018 – Cameron Tolnai, Oakville Rangers 2017 – Matthew Dunsmoor, Guelph Jr. Gryphons 2016 – Adam McMaster, Niagara North Stars 2015 – Liam Stevens, Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs 2014 – Rylee St Onge, Niagara North Stars
*prior to 2014 there was a single OMHA Player of the Year award recipient
Past OMHA Players of the Year: 2013 – Matt Spencer, Oakville Rangers* 2012 – Nik Coric, York Simcoe Express* 2011 – Alex Yuill, Quinte Red Devils*
Forward of the Month – Malcolm Spence – Erie Otters
Spence had a very good month of March to close out the regular season, scoring 9 goals and adding 9 assists in 11 games. He had 3-multi goal games, 4-multi assist games and 5-multi point games. All 9 of his goals came on 5-on-5 hockey. He also had a whopping 43 shots on goal in those 9 games.
Also considered was Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit. He posted 6 goals and 10 assists in 9 games while Filip Ekberg of the Ottawa 67’s, who was named Rookie of the Month by the OHL, had 4 goals and 11 assists in 10 games.
Defenceman of the Month – Kashawn Aitcheson – Barrie Colts
Aitcheson has had a very good regular season and March was no different as he posted 5 goals and 8 assists in 9 games during the month of March. He was held off the scoresheet just once on March 9 against the Sudbury Wolves. He did not produce a multi-goal game but had 3-multi assist games. He was also runner up as the OHL Defenseman of the Month.
Also considered were Parker Von Richter of the Brampton Steelheads who had 1 goal and 9 assists in 10 games as well as James Petrovski of the Owen Sound Attack who had 1 goal and 8 assists in 9 games.
Goaltender of the Month – Mike McIvor – North Bay Battalion
McIvor posted a 5-2-0-1 record in March where he stopped 235 of 257 shots for a save percentage of .914 and a goals-against-average of 2.92. McIvor is a draft re-entry and is ranked sixth among OHL goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting. While others have put up better numbers, there is no arguing the effort.
Also considered was Jack Ivankovic of the Brampton Steelheads with also put up a 5-2-0-1 record with a 2.36 goals-against-average and .910 save percentage.
Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit. Photo by OHL Images.
For the past 15 seasons, I have been keeping you up to date on the statistical leaders from the OHL that are eligible for the NHL Entry Draft. This season, the OHL has decided to do the same, however, they just look at first time draft eligible players whereas I include the draft re-entries.
One could ask themselves the question: What category does Michael Misa not lead in? Well, there aren’t many. Have a look as I look at the leaders in a variety of different categories.
OHL Writers 