OHL ANNOUNCES FIRST ROUND PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The 2024-25 OHL Regular Season drew to a close on Sunday as 16 of the League’s 20 teams have secured spots in the 2025 OHL Playoffs for the J. Ross Robertson Cup that gets underway on Thursday.

The defending OHL champion London Knights and the Brantford Bulldogs finished atop their respective conferences while the Owen Sound Attack and North Bay Battalion took their seasons down to the wire, securing their spot in the postseason on the final day of the schedule.

The League will recognize its regular season award winners on Monday, with season recap and playoff preview content accompanying coverage throughout the week of the 2025 OHL Cup taking place in Toronto.

Here’s a look at the schedule for the opening round of the OHL Playoffs.

2025 OHL Playoffs – First Round Schedule:

Eastern Conference

(1) Brantford Bulldogs vs. (8) North Bay Battalion
Game 1 – Friday, March 28 at Brantford, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sunday, March 30 at Brantford, 7:00pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at North Bay, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at North Bay, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Saturday, April 5 at Brantford, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at North Bay, 6:00pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Brantford, 7:00pm*

(2) Barrie Colts vs. (7) Niagara IceDogs
Game 1 – Thursday, March 27 at Barrie, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Monday, March 31 at Barrie, 7:00pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Niagara, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Niagara, 7:00pm
Game 5 -Saturday, April 5 at Barrie, 7:30pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at Niagara, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Thursday, April 8 at Barrie, 7:00pm*

(3) Kingston Frontenacs vs. (6) Sudbury Wolves
Game 1 – Friday, March 28 at Kingston, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sunday, March 30 at Kingston, 2:00pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Sudbury, 7:05pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Sudbury, 7:05pm
Game 5 – Saturday, April 5 at Kingston, 4:00pm*
Game 6 – Monday, April 7 at Sudbury, 7:05pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Kingston, 7:00pm*

(4) Oshawa Generals vs. (5) Brampton Steelheads
Game 1 – Friday, March 28 at Oshawa, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Sunday, March 30 at Oshawa, 6:05pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Brampton, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Brampton, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Friday, April 4 at Oshawa, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at Brampton, 2:00pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Oshawa, 7:05pm*

*-if necessary
 

Western Conference

(1) London Knights vs. (8) Owen Sound Attack
Game 1 – Friday, March 28 at London, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sunday, March 30 at London, 2:00pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Owen Sound, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Owen Sound, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Friday, April 4 at London, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at Owen Sound, 2:00pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at London, 7:00pm*

(2) Windsor Spitfires vs. (7) Soo Greyhounds
Game 1 – Thursday, March 27 at Windsor, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Saturday, March 29 at Windsor. 7:05pm
Game 3 – Monday, March 31 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07pm
Game 4 – Wednesday, April 2 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07pm
Game 5 – Friday, April 4 at Windsor, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Windsor, 7:05pm*

(3) Kitchener Rangers vs. (6) Flint Firebirds
Game 1 – Friday March 28 at Kitchener, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sunday, March 30 at Kitchener, 2:00pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Flint, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Flint, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Friday, April 4 at Kitchener, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, April 6 at Flint, 4:00pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Kitchener, 7:00pm*

(4) Saginaw Spirit vs. (5) Erie Otters
Game 1 – Thursday, March 27 at Saginaw, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Saturday, March 29 at Saginaw, 7:05pm
Game 3 – Tuesday, April 1 at Erie, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thursday, April 3 at Erie, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Saturday, April 5 at Saginaw, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Monday, April 7 at Erie, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Tuesday, April 8 at Saginaw, 7:05pm*

*-if necessary

See every game of the 2025 OHL Playoffs live on OHL Live on CHL TV, with playoff packages available for purchase at watch.chl.ca.

SMITH, MCIVOR AND JOVANOVSKI 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 regular season games ending Sunday, March 23, 2025.



Steelheads’ Konnor Smith Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Anaheim Ducks prospect Konnor Smith of the Brampton Steelheads is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, registering four goals, three assists and seven points in three victories.

Smith opened the week with a goal on Wednesday in the Steelheads’ 7-2 win over the Brantford Bulldogs. He followed up with a career-high performance on Friday, netting a hat trick and adding two assists to earn first star honours in a 6-1 victory over the Peterborough Petes. Smith capped off the week with an assist on Sunday, earning third star honours as the Steelheads secured a perfect week with a 4-1 win over the Kingston Frontenacs.

The 20-year-old defenceman recorded 10 goals, 16 assists, and 26 points in 40 games this season between the Steelheads and Owen Sound Attack. A Windsor, Ont., native, he was traded to Brampton at the start of the new year from the Attack. Originally selected by the Peterborough Petes in the ninth round (175th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Smith has totaled 70 points (26-44-70) in 219 career regular-season games. An OHL champion with the Petes in 2023, he contributed two points during their 23-game playoff run. Smith was selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the fourth round (97th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft.

Also considered for the award this week, 2025 NHL Draft-eligible prospect Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit registered eight points (3-5-8) in three games played, while Noel Nordh tallied three goals and three assists in three contests.

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)


 

Battalion’s Mike McIvor Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Mike McIvor of the North Bay Battalion is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season, going 3-0 including a shutout, along with a 1.67 goals-against average and .950 save percentage.

Helping the Battalion secure the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, McIvor turned aside an impressive 95 shots last week. He stopped 38 of 39 shots on Thursday, earning first star honours in a 5-1 win over the Oshawa Generals. Back in net on Friday, he made 28 saves in a 5-4 victory against the Niagara IceDogs. McIvor capped off the week with a 29-save shutout on Sunday as the Battalion defeated the Sudbury Wolves 4-0, once again earning first-star honours and officially clinching a post-season berth.

A recently turned 19-year-old from Warkworth, Ont., McIvor played to a 22-17-3-0 record this season, including three shutouts, with a 2.86 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage over 45 games. A former fourth round pick (83rd overall) by the Battalion in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, he is in his second full OHL season, boasting a career record of 30-28-3-0 with a 3.11 goals-against average, a .901 save percentage, and four shutouts in 65 regular-season games. McIvor was ranked 22nd among North American goaltenders on the NHL Central Scouting Midterm Rankings.

Also considered for the award this week, Los Angeles Kings prospect Carter George of the Owen Sound Attack went 2-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .958 save percentage, while Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals was also a standout in the crease, going 2-0 along with a 1.50 goals-against average and .947 save percentage.

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)



Storm’s Zachary Jovanovski Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Guelph Storm goaltender Zachary Jovanovski is the OHL Rookie of the Week, playing to a 2-1 record along with a 2.67 goals-against average and .921 save percentage.

Turning aside 93 shots last week, Jovanovski earned first star honours on Tuesday, stopping 38 of 39 shots in the Storm’s 2-1 win over the Flint Firebirds. He returned to the crease on Thursday, making 29 saves in a 6-4 victory over the Erie Otters. Jovanovski closed out the week with a 26-save performance on Saturday as Guelph fell 4-2 to the Owen Sound Attack.

Selected by the Storm in the seventh round, 134th overall, of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Sun County Panthers U16 AAA program, the 6-foot-2, 170lb. netminder played to a 6-10-3-0 record this season including a shutout, along with a 3.71 goals-against average and .886 save percentage. The 17-year-old from Tecumseh, Ont. also spent part of the season with the GOJHL’s Ayr Centennials.

Also considered for the award this week, Brady R. Smith of the Soo Greyhounds registered three goals and two assists, while Filip Ekberg of the Ottawa 67’s tallied six points (1-5-6) in three games played.

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)

Shamar Moses – North Bay Battalion – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”202May 6, 2007RWR19th 202371st NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLBarrie Colts6652025
2024-2025OHLBarrie Colts5000
2024-2025OHLNorth Bay Battalion60123547
Shamar Moses of the North Bay Battalion. Photo by OHL Images.

Shamar Moses was born on May 6, 2007, in Scarborough, Ontario. Moses has steadily climbed the ranks in Canadian hockey. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 203 pounds, he plays as a right winger and is known for his physical presence with some offensive capabilities.

Career Highlights

Moses began his journey with the Don Mills Flyers, where he showcased his talent in the U16 league. His performance did not go unnoticed, leading to his selection by the Barrie Colts as the 19th overall pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. During his time with the Colts, Moses made a good first impression during his rookie season, scoring 5 goals and adding 20 assists in 66 games.

In October 2024, Moses was traded to the North Bay Battalion, where he continued to develop his game. As of the 2024-25 season, he has accumulated 47 points in 60 games, including 12 goals and 35 assists. His consistent performance has earned him recognition as a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, where he is ranked 71st among North American skaters.

Scouting Report

Shamar Moses is a dynamic player with a well-rounded skill set. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his abilities:

Offensive Awareness: Moses has a keen sense of positioning and playmaking. His ability to read the game allows him to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Physicality: At 6’1″ and 202 pounds, Moses uses his size effectively to win battles along the boards and protect the puck.

Skating: While not the fastest skater, Moses has a powerful stride that helps him maintain balance and control.

Defensive Play: Moses has shown steady improvement in his defensive responsibilities, and being tasked with playing a checking role when needed.

Future Outlook

As Moses continues to refine his skills, he is expected to be a valuable asset at the next level with NHL potential. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him a promising prospect for any team looking to bolster their roster with a versatile winger.

Moses’ dedication to improving and his work ethic needs to continue. As he prepares for the next chapter in his career, he is a player worth monitoring.

OHL CUP U16 AAA TOP 10 RANKINGS: WEEK 17

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Week 17 and final edition of the U16 AAA rankings for the 2025 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League.

The 2025 OHL Cup will feature 20 teams consisting of talent eligible for the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. Starting with three Wild Card Play-In matchups on Monday, March 24, all games will be played at the Scotiabank Pond in Toronto until the Championship Final moves to the Mattamy Athletic Centre on Friday, March 28.

The final edition of the Top-10 features the GTHL champion Don Mills Flyers leading the way into the annual showcase in top spot followed by the Detroit Little Caesars and GTHL finalist Toronto Titans. Other regional champions inside the top-10 include the fourth-ranked Ottawa Valley Titans (HEO), fifth-ranked Sun County Panthers (ALLIANCE) and sixth-ranked Halton Hurricanes (OMHA).

The weekly rankings are determined by a panel of OHL Central Scouting staff and represent the top teams that are competing to play in the annual year-end championship tournament.

U16 AAA Rankings for the 2025 OHL Cup – Week 17

RANK:TEAM:LAST WEEKWEEKS RANKED
1Don Mills Flyers (GTHL)*117
2Detroit Little Caesars*216
3Toronto Titans (GTHL)*317
4Ottawa Valley Titans (HEO)*417
5Sun County Panthers (ALLIANCE)*617
6Halton Hurricanes (OMHA)*86
7Huron-Perth Lakers (ALLIANCE)*517
8Vaughan Kings (GTHL)*717
9York-Simcoe Express (OMHA)*103
10Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)917
    
HMOakville Rangers (OMHA)–8
HMBarrie Jr. Colts (OMHA)*–3
HMToronto Red Wings (GTHL)*–10
HMAjax-Pickering Raiders (OMHA)*––

*- clinched spot in 2025 OHL Cup

WILD CARD MATCHUPS SET FOR MONDAY’S ACTION AT 2025 OHL CUP

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the wild card play-in matchups for the 2025 OHL Cup set to begin on the morning of Monday, March 24 at Scotiabank Pond in Toronto.

Seventeen teams have secured their place in the annual showcase, with three more spots being awarded to the winners of Monday’s play-in games.

All matchups were randomly drawn on Wednesday night and streamed on the OHL’s YouTube channel.

2025 OHL Cup Wild Card Play-In Schedule:
WC 1, Oakville Rangers (OMHA) vs. Niagara North Stars (OMHA) – 8:00am, Rink 1
WC 2, Ottawa Myers Automotive (HEO) vs. Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL) – 9:45am – Rink 1
WC 3, Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) vs. Thunder Bay Kings (HNO) – 10:00am – Rink 2

The Thunder Bay Kings were granted wild card access by way of being the tournament’s HNO representative. Oakville, Niagara North, Ottawa Myers, the Jr. Canadiens, and Marlboros were selected by way of an OHL Cup Wild Card Selection Committee that evaluated performance throughout the 2024-25 season.

The three winners of the wild card play-in games will join 17 other clubs who earned their qualification through league play and regional representation. Final divisional alignment and a 40-game round robin tournament schedule will be confirmed ahead of tournament action on Monday.

For full coverage of the 2025 OHL Cup Showcase, visit ohlcup.ca.

176 CHL alumni are set to compete in the 2025 U SPORTS University Cup in Ottawa

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce that 176 CHL alumni (see complete list below) will compete in the 2025 U SPORTS Men’s Hockey Championship from March 20-23 at TD Place in Ottawa, which begins later today at 1 p.m. ET. The 176 CHL graduates, which represent close to 80% of the players competing at the 2025 U SPORTS University Cup, are the most of any development league in the world.

Among the alumni from the CHL participating in the tournament, there are 80 graduates from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), 49 from the Western Hockey League (WHL), and 47 who hail from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The CHL and its Member Leagues (WHL, OHL & QMJHL) are committed to the academic development of its athletes, investing roughly $10 million annually on the education of current and former players, a group that includes the 176 CHL alumni who will be competing at the 2025 University Cup over the coming days.

Looking to be the first school in 45 years to win a third straight David Johnston University Cup, the University of New Brunswick (UNB) Reds lead the way with 24 CHL graduates on their roster, along with the Concordia University Stingers and the Université de Moncton Aigles Bleus who also have a couple of dozen CHL alumni.In search of their 11th national title in school history, the UNB Reds enter the tournament as the top seed having won 21 straight games and suffered just two losses in 2024-25. Their squad is highlighted by defenceman Kale McCallum (Saint John Sea Dogs/Val-d’Or Foreurs/QMJHL), who was selected as a U SPORTS’ First Team All-Canadian this season, while UNB forwards Benjamin Corbeil (Drummondville Voltigeurs/Blainville-Boisbriand Armada/Baie-Comeau Drakkar/QMJHL) and Emmett Sproule (Erie Otters/Peterborough Petes/OHL) earned Second Team All-Canadians honours. 

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) Huskies earned the No. 2 seed after they won their 12th Canada West title in school history and their first since 2020. Chosen as a U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian, Huskies goaltender Roddy Ross (Seattle Thunderbirds/Regina Pats/WHL) recorded a 30-save shutout in Game 3 of the Canada West Finals to help punch the Huskies ticket to the 2025 U CUP Championship as they search for a second national title in school history.

The No. 3 seed belongs to Concordia University Stingers after they captured their first-ever OUA Championship in program history by defeating Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) 4-1 in the Queen’s Cup final. Having been one of 22 CHL alumni to win gold for Canada earlier this year at the FISU Winter World University Games, defenceman Simon Lavigne (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada/QMJHL) capped off his 2024-25 campaign as the lone Concordia player to receive All-Canadian honours by being selected to its Second Team.

Rounding out the field are TMU as the No. 4 seed, Mount Royal University at No. 5, the Université de Moncton hold the No. 6 seed, Queen’s University is ranked No. 7, while the University of Ottawa rounds out the tournament as the No. 8 seed and hosts of the championship.

In men’s hockey, the three conference champions are seeded in the top three based on their final national ranking, while the OUA finalist is automatically placed in the No. 4 spot. The remaining teams are then placed to avoid intraconference matchups in the first round.

Taking place at TD Place in Ottawa, the 2025 University Cup quarterfinals will be played today and tomorrow, while the semifinals will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET and 7 p.m. ET.  On Sunday, the bronze medal game will start at 11 a.m. ET with the championship game scheduled for 5 p.m. ET later that same day.

For more information about the 2025 U SPORTS Men’s Hockey Championship, please visit U SPORTS’ official championship website.

Complete list of 176 CHL Alumni competing at the 2025 U SPORTS University Cup in Toronto
Players are listed alongside the CHL club they’ve played the most games with

Jimmy Lombardi – Flint Firebirds – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’178Feb 16, 2007CL29th 202364th NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2023-2024OHLFlint Firebirds6271320
2024-2025OHLFlint Firebirds60132841
Jimmy Lombardi of the Flint Firebirds. Photo by OHL Images.

Jimmy Lombardi has drawn a little attention while skating for the OHL Flint Firebirds. Born on February 16, 2007, in Toronto, Ontario, Lombardi has shown potential as a center, standing at 6’0″ and weighing 179 lbs. His journey in hockey began with his youth team in Canada, and he was drafted in 2023 as the 29th overall pick by the Flint Firebirds in the OHL Priority Selection.

Career Path

Lombardi’s career trajectory has been marked by steady if not consistent growth and development. Since joining the Flint Firebirds, he has demonstrated his ability to adapt and hold his own in a competitive environment. His performances have earned him recognition as a prospect eligible for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, where he is ranked among the top 75 North American skaters.

Scouting Report

Jimmy Lombardi is a high-compete, two-way center known for his strong play in all three zones. Here are some key aspects of his game:

Strengths:

Hockey Sense and Playmaking: Lombardi exhibits elite game processing and anticipation. He excels in creating opportunities for his teammates and has a knack for recovering loose pucks, making him a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive situations.

Skating and Work Ethic: His speed and relentless style of play make him a constant threat on the ice. He is capable shifting the momentum in his team’s favor with his high-tempo approach and energy.

Versatility: Trusted by his coaches in all situations, Lombardi plays significant minutes on both the power play and penalty kill. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments highlights his leadership qualities.

Areas for Improvement:

Shooting Efficiency: Lombardi’s scoring ability is an area that requires development. With only seven goals in 62 games, improving his shot selection and finishing skills will be crucial for his progression.

Passing and Puck Management: While he has playmaking potential, his passing accuracy and puck protection skills need refinement to reduce turnovers and enhance his offensive impact.

Physicality and Face-Offs: Adding muscle to his frame and improving his face-off win rate will help him handle the physical demands of professional hockey.

Jimmy Lombardi’s journey is a testament to his hard work and determination. As he continues to develop his skills and address areas for improvement, he has the potential to become a professional hockey player. At which level will depend on his effort and willingness to improve.

CHL Top-10 Rankings presented by Delta Hotels by Marriott: Moncton at No.1 for a third week in a row, while Windsor marks its return to the Top 10

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — Today, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced the Week 23 edition of its CHL Top-10 Rankings for the 2024-25 season.

Riding a 13-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the CHL, the Moncton Wildcats of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) are back at No. 1 for a third straight week. Having already secured the Jean-Rougeau Trophy as the 2024-25 QMJHL Regular Season Champions, the Wildcats hold the fewest regulation losses (nine) of any CHL club and the CHL’s best goal differential at +144. Sitting in second for the third consecutive week is the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Over the last week, the Knights claimed the Hamilton Spectator Trophy as the OHL’s Regular Season Champions for the second consecutive season and the eighth time in franchise history. Finally, rounding out the top three, is the Rimouski Océanic of the QMJHL who are ranked third for the seventh week in a row. The 2025 Memorial Cup hosts have locked second place in the QMJHL thanks to their 44-14-2-2 record.

Among the most notable changes to this week’s rankings were the rise of two Western Hockey League (WHL) clubs, the Medicine Hat Tigers and the Everett Silvertips, along with the return of the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL to the Top 10. With 24 victories in 28 games (24-2-1-1) dating back to January 4, including eight straight wins, the Tigers are in fourth – their highest ranking in the CHL Top-10 Rankings since October 1. Up a place into fifth are the Silvertips, who secured their second Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s Regular Season Champions in franchise history and their first since the 2006-07 season. Meanwhile, with three wins over their last four outings including a victory over the No.2-ranked Knights on Sunday, the Spitfires are back in the Top 10 for the first time in three weeks.

With the regular season set to wrap up in all three member leagues of the CHL this weekend, next week’s rankings will be the 24th and final ones of the 2024-25 campaign. 

CHL Top-10 Rankings – Week 23
1. Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
2. London Knights (OHL)
3. Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL)
4. Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
5. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
6. Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
7. Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
8. Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
9. Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
10. Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

For information and details about each individual club ranked in the CHL’s latest Top-10 Rankings, please visit chl.ca/video/2024-25-chl-top-10-rankings-week-23.

PROTAS, LEENDERS AND LANE 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 regular season games ending Sunday, March 16, 2025.



Spitfires’ Ilya Protas Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas of the Windsor Spitfires is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week for the second time this season, registering five goals, six assists and 11 points over three contests.

Protas opened the week with a goal and three assists on Tuesday, earning second-star honours as the Spitfires secured a 7-5 win over the Erie Otters. He found the scoresheet again on Thursday, tallying a goal and two assists to earn first-star honours in a 6-3 win over the Soo Greyhounds. The 6-foot-5, 200lb. forward closed out the week with his third hat-trick of the season along with an assist, reaching the 50-goal mark as the Spitfires came up short in a 6-5 shootout loss to the Saginaw Spirit.

The 18-year-old from Vitebsk, Belarus, has appeared in 60 games with the Spitfires this season, recording 50 goals, 69 assists, and 119 points. Protas ranks second in OHL scoring and third in goals. He was selected third overall by Windsor in the 2024 CHL Import Draft after being chosen in the third round (75th overall) by the Washington Capitals in the 2024 NHL Draft.

Also considered for the award this week, Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan of the London Knights registered nine points (2-7-9) in three games played.

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



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 third time this season, going 2-0 along with a 1.00 goals-against average, and a .974 save percentage.

Turning aside 76 shots last week, Leenders blocked 33 of the 34 shots he faced on Thursday in a 2-1 win over the North Bay Battalion, earning second-star honours. He returned to the crease on Friday, making 43 saves in a 5-1 win against the Sudbury Wolves to earn first-star recognition.

An 18-year-old from Nanticoke, Ont., Leenders is 30-13-3-0 on the season, with a 3.09 goals-against average and .910 save percentage in 46 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 66-45-10-0 with a 3.20 goals-against average, .903 save percentage and three shutouts over 127 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, Charlie Schenkel of the Kingston Frontenacs went 2-0 with a 1.44 goals-against average and .945 save percentage, while Austin Elliott of the London Knights was also a standout in the crease, going 2-0 along with a 2.00 goals-against average and .938 save percentage.

2024-25 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
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)



Steelheads’ Aidan Lane Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Brampton Steelheads forward Aidan Lane is the OHL Rookie of the Week, registering three goals, two assists and five points in four games played.

Lane recorded a pair of goals on Wednesday, earning first-star honors as the Steelheads secured a 6-3 win over the Peterborough Petes. He found the scoresheet again on Friday, tallying an assist in a 4-1 win over the Barrie Colts, earning first-star honors once again. Lane closed out the week with a goal and an assist on Sunday to earn third-star honors in a 6-2 victory over the Niagara IceDogs.

Selected by the Steelheads in the fourth round, 80th overall, of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program, the 6-foot-1, 193-pound forward has registered six goals, four assists, and 10 points in 10 games played with Brampton since signing with the team in December. Lane has spent the majority of the season at St. Andrew’s College.

Also considered for the award this week, Beckham Edwards of the Sarnia Sting recorded five points (3-2-5) in three games played.

2024-25 OHL Rookies of the Week – Regular Season:
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)

David Bedkowski – Owen Sound Attack – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
HTWTDOBPOSSOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’5”215Dec 7, 2006DR36th 202238th NACAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2022-2023OHLOshawa Generals55235
2023-2024OHLOshawa Generals6821012
2024-2025OHLOshawa Generals2000
2024-2025OHLOwen Sound Attack31347

David Bedkowski, is a towering defenseman from Toronto, Ontario. Born on December 7, 2006, Bedkowski stands at an imposing 6’5″ and weighs 214 pounds, making him a physical presence on the ice.

Career Overview

Bedkowski began his OHL journey with the Oshawa Generals, who selected him in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection Draft. Over the years, he has developed into a reliable defenseman, showcasing his skills with both the Generals and, more recently, the Owen Sound Attack. His career statistics reflect steady growth, with notable contributions in both regular-season and playoff games.

In the 2024-25 season, Bedkowski has been a key player for the Owen Sound Attack, contributing not only defensively but also offensively. His ability to play significant minutes and his physical style of play have made him a standout player in the league3.

Scouting Report

Bedkowski is a defenseman who combines size, strength, and skill to dominate on the ice. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his attributes:

Physicality: Bedkowski is known for his punishing physical play. He excels at delivering bone-crushing hits and using his size to his advantage in one-on-one battles.

Defensive Skills: He is a robust shutdown defenseman who can neutralize opposing forwards effectively. His positioning and ability to read the game make him a reliable presence in the defensive zone.

Offensive Contributions: While primarily a defensive player, Bedkowski has shown flashes of offensive skill. He is capable of making smart plays from the blue line and contributing to his team’s attack.

Hockey IQ: Bedkowski’s understanding of the game is evident in his decision-making and ability to adapt to different situations. He is a player who can be trusted in high-pressure moments.

Potential: As a draft-eligible player for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Bedkowski is ranked among the top prospects. His combination of size, skill, and hockey sense makes him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams4.

Bedkowski’s journey in hockey is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he continues to develop, he is poised to make a impact at the professional level. Keep an eye on this rising player as he takes the next steps in his promising career.