ATTACK’S GEORGE WINS BOBBY SMITH TROPHY AND IVAN TENNANT MEMORIAL AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that draft eligible Owen Sound Attack goaltender Carter George is the 2023-24 recipient of the Bobby Smith Trophy, awarded annually to the OHL’s Scholastic Player of the Year. The 17-year-old netminder also comes away as this year’s recipient of the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award presented to the League’s top academic high-school student.

After never winning the award until 2023, the Attack franchise has back-to-back Bobby Smith Trophy recipients as George follows teammate Colby Barlow with excellence in the classroom, putting together a 93.8 percent average across six Grade 12 university-level courses at Owen Sound District Secondary School. George’s transcript was headlined by a 99 percent grade in Business Co-Op, a 97 percent in Organizational Business and 95 percent finishes in both English and International Business.

“It’s truly an honour to receive these awards,” said George. “I believe that to be an elite athlete your habits, character and mindset apply to all aspects of your life, not just hockey. That is why I feel it is just as important for me to strive for a high level of success in my academics. Balancing hockey with my academics has helped me to become more disciplined, resilient and has taught me time management. I’d like to recognize and thank the Attack organization, especially Sarah Rowe, for helping me grow on and off the ice.”

George was the OHL’s busiest netminder this past season, stopping a league-high 1,744 shots, the most by an Owen Sound goaltender since 2000-01 (Cory Roberts, 1,792). He played to a record of 23-21-6-3 with a 3.30 goals-against average, .907 save percentage and four shutouts, a figure tied for the League-lead. He was also the OHL’s Rookie of the Month for October.

George becomes the OHL’s first dual winner of the Bobby Smith and Ivan Tennant awards since Erie Otters defenceman Adam Pelech last earned both honours in 2011-12.

“Being able to say that you are both the Bobby Smith and Ivan Tennant award winner in the same year says a lot about the individual who could win that,” said Attack General Manager Dale DeGray. “Carter George is one of those young men capable of just about anything he puts his mind to. I don’t think anyone in the organization is surprised that he has achieved this feat. Carter has proven to be a leader both on and off the ice since completing his first game with us two years ago. Congratulations to Carter on this incredible accomplishment.”

George joins four other former Attack players as the latest to claim the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award, following Cal Uens (2022), Logan LeSage (2020), Mack Guzda (2019, ’18) and Andrew Shorkey (2007).

George’s 23 wins are the most by a rookie goaltender in Attack franchise history. The former third-round (53rd overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from Thunder Bay, Ont. is also North America’s second-ranked goaltender eligible for the 2024 NHL Draft as listed by NHL Central Scouting. George recently backstopped Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team to a gold medal finish in Espoo, Finland earlier this month.

“Carter is an extremely hard-working individual who has always put forth his best effort, on and off the ice,” said Sarah Rowe, the Attack’s Academic Advisor. “In fact, he is always interested to find out whether his save percentage or academic average is higher!  It is fitting he is being recognized with both the Bobby Smith and Ivan Tennant awards.  His teachers describe him as a conscientious student and a leader who is the first to step in and assist his teammates in the classroom.  His personal desire to not only succeed on the ice but in the classroom as well has resulted in his exceptional academic results. Congratulations Carter!”

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. Past recipients since the award was first presented in 1980 include three-time winner Dustin Brown (Guelph 2001-03), back-to-back winner Connor McDavid (Erie, 2014, ’15) and other standouts in Steven Stamkos (Sarnia 2007), Ryan Ellis (Windsor 2008), Matt Duchene (Brampton 2009), Dougie Hamilton (Niagara 2011) and Cole Perfetti (Saginaw 2020).

Next in line for the Bobby Smith Trophy was Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa who finished as the runner-up followed by 2024 NHL Draft prospect Jett Luchanko of the Guelph Storm, who placed third in the process.

George will be the OHL’s nominee for the Canadian Hockey League Scholastic Player of the Year Award, presented at the CHL Awards Ceremony that will be held at the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow from May 24 to June 2 in Saginaw, Michigan. George will be formally presented with both the Bobby Smith Trophy and the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award at the OHL’s Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, May 2 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

For a complete history of OHL award winners, click here.

2023-24 OHL Scholastic Team Nominees:
Barrie Colts – Jaiden Newton
Brantford Bulldogs – Jake O’Brien
Erie Otters – Matthew Schaefer
Flint Firebirds – Jimmy Lombardi
Guelph Storm – Jett Luchanko
Kingston Frontenacs – Mason Vaccari
Kitchener Rangers – Cameron Reid
London Knights – Sam Dickinson
Mississauga Steelheads – Lucas Karmiris
Niagara IceDogs – Kevin He
North Bay Battalion – Nolan Laird
Oshawa Generals – Ben Danford
Ottawa 67’s – Frankie Marrelli
Owen Sound Attack – Carter George
Peterborough Petes – Ryder McIntyre
Saginaw Spirit – Michael Misa
Sarnia Sting – Nick Surzycia
Soo Greyhounds – Landon Miller
Sudbury Wolves – Nathan Villeneuve
Windsor Spitfires – Liam Greentree

COWAN AND SIMPSON NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, May 12, 2024.



Knights’ Easton Cowan Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan of the London Knights is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording two goals, six assists and eight points in a pair of victories.

Helping the Knights take a 2-0 OHL Championship Series lead over the Oshawa Generals, Cowan opened up the week with a career-high five-point performance in an 8-1 Game 1 victory at home on Thursday night, registering a goal and four assists to earn first star honours. He proceeded to pick-up third star recognition on Saturday, tallying a goal and two assists as the Knights skated past the Generals in a 9-1 win.

A soon-to-be 19-year-old from Mount Brydges, Ont., Cowan leads all post-season point-getters with 27 points (9-18-27) in 16 games played. Recently awarded the Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player in the regular season, Cowan registered 96 points (34-62-96) in 54 regular season contests, setting a Knights franchise record with a 36-game point streak. Originally selected in the second round (25th overall) by the Knights in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Cowan has tallied 55 goals, 96 assists, and 151 points over 129 regular season games in London. After leading the Knights to a Western Conference title last season, the Toronto Maple Leafs selected Cowan with their first round (28th overall) pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs:
May 6 – May 12: Easton Cowan (London Knights)
Apr. 29 – May 5: Sandis Vilmanis (North Bay Battalion)
Apr. 22 – Apr. 28: Kasper Halttunen (London Knights)
Apr. 15 – Apr. 21: Jacob Julien (London Knights)
Apr. 8 – Apr. 14: Dylan Roobroeck (Oshawa Generals)
Apr. 1 – Apr. 7: Samuel Mayer (Ottawa 67’s)
Mar. 28 – Mar. 31: Owen Beck (Saginaw Spirit)

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)
Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Mar. 4 – Mar. 10: Dylan Roobroeck (Oshawa Generals)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 3: Jacob Maillet (Ottawa 67’s)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Rodwin Dionicio (Saginaw Spirit)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Gavin Bryant (Niagara IceDogs)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Quentin Musty (Sudbury Wolves)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Sam Dickinson (London Knights)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Nick Lardis (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Pano Fimis (Erie Otters)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Donovan McCoy (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 6 – Nov. 12: Denver Barkey (London Knights)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 5: Braeden Kressler (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Kirill Kudryavtsev (Soo Greyhounds)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Anthony Romani (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Jordan D’Intino (Soo Greyhounds)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Jax Dubois (Peterborough Petes)



Knights’ Michael Simpson Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Michael Simpson 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 1.10 goals-against average and .952 save percentage.

Backstopping the Knights to a 2-0 OHL Championship Series lead over the Oshawa Generals, Simpson made a total of 40 saves last week. He stopped 24 of the 25 shots that came his way on Thursday in an 8-1 win at Budweiser Gardens to open up the Series. He returned to the crease on Saturday evening with a 16-save performance as the Knights defeated the Generals 9-1.

A 21-year-old hometown product, Simpson ranks third among all netminders with a 2.42 goals-against average and .915 save percentage in postseason action, backstopping the Knights to a 14-2-0-0 record. Simpson’s 30-career playoff wins are tied for the third-most by any OHL goaltender since 1981. Playing to a 34-10-1-1 regular season record, the former 2023 OHL Champion ranked first among all goaltenders in regular season action with a 2.61 goals-against average, along with a .905 save percentage. Selected in the 10th round (193rd overall) by the Peterborough Petes in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection, the 2023 OHL Playoffs MVP attended development camp with the Pittsburgh Penguins last summer.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs:
May 6 – May 12: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Apr. 29 – May 5: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion)
Apr. 22 – Apr. 28: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Apr. 15 – Apr. 21: Charlie Schenkel (Soo Greyhounds)
Apr. 8 – Apr. 14: Mike McIvor (North Bay Battalion)
Apr. 1 – Apr. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Mar. 28 – Mar. 31: Jakub Vondras (Sudbury Wolves)

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Mar. 18 – Mar. 24: Nick Surzycia (Sarnia Sting)
Mar. 11 – Mar. 17: Charlie Robertson (Niagara IceDogs)
Mar. 4 – Mar. 10: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Feb. 26 – Mar. 3: Liam Sztuska (Peterborough Petes)
Feb. 19 – Feb. 25: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Feb. 12 – Feb. 18: Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs)
Feb. 5 – Feb. 11: Ben West (Barrie Colts)
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4: Owen Willmore (London Knights)
Jan. 22 – Jan. 28: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Jan. 15 – Jan. 21: Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs)
Jan. 8 – Jan. 14: Michael Simpson (London Knights)
Jan. 1 – Jan. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 28 – Dec. 31: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 11 – Dec. 18: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Dec. 4 – Dec. 10: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 27 – Dec. 3: Marcus Vandenberg (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 20 – Nov. 26: Jack Ivankovic (Mississauga Steelheads)
Nov. 13 – Nov. 19: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 8 – Nov. 12: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Oct. 30 – Nov. 7: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 23 – Oct. 29: Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 16 – Oct. 22: Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 9 – Oct. 15: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 2 – Oct. 8: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sep. 28 – Oct. 1: Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads)

Christopher Thibodeau – Kingston Frontenacs – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Christopher Thibodeau of the Kingston Frontenacs. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’9”144Oct 13, 2005RWR75th, 2021151st N.A.USA
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020Alliance U15Waterloo Wolves31121123
2021-2022OHLKingston Frontenacs51459
2022-2023OHLKingston Frontenacs66172239
2023-2024OHLKingston Frontenacs68213960

When considering Thibodeau, the initial step is to overlook his size and frame, which can be challenging. He possesses the necessary skating ability for being undersized. Additionally, his high-paced performance on every shift makes him a compelling option.

Thibodeau excels in gaining zone entries when on the offensive. After entering the attacking zone, he can easily adjust his pace to facilitate play development. His adept edgework and rapid bursts of speed enable him to navigate through traffic smoothly. He possesses a sharp shooting ability with a swift release and better-than-average accuracy. Nevertheless, his forte might lie in serving as a playmaker from the wing.

Thibodeau can struggle when trying to reach the middle of the ice. While he is not hesitant when it comes to physical play, he can struggle to access high-risk areas at times. Increasing his muscle mass would be beneficial, but given his height of 5’9”, there may be limitations to how much he can realistically gain.

Thibodeau has the necessary skills to become a third-line winger at the next level, but achieving this will require patience and hard work.

Mason Zebeski – Mississauga Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Mason Zebeski of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”186Oct 4, 2005LWL208th, 2021103rd N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020SCTA U15Oakville Rangers258816
2021-2022OJHLOakville Blades49111021
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads665611
2023-2024OHLMississauga Steelheads55241135

I am uncertain about Mason Zebeski’s draft placement, if any, but I think NHL Central Scouting has him placed too high compared to others who have ranked him too low.

Zebeski has not been a significant scorer in any of the levels where he has competed. Currently, he serves as a supporting player who can provide a high level of enthusiasm. He possesses strong skating abilities with rapid accelerations and utilizes his speed and strong work ethic to excel as a successful forechecker. He is unreserved in using his physical presence and positioning himself in front of the net to disrupt play.

Zebeski shows strong defensive skills and excels at penalty killing. If he reaches the NHL, he has the potential to serve as a reliable fourth-line player, contributing energy, defensive prowess, penalty-killing abilities, and occasional offense.

Nathan Aspinall – Flint Firebirds – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Nathan Aspinall of the Flint Firebirds. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’7”189Mar 30, 2006LWL33rd 2022102nd N. A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022ETAHL U16Markham Waxers27172239
2022-2023OHLFlint Firebirds29134
2023-2024OHLFlint Firebirds65181634

Nathan Aspinall’s notable feature is his size. With his current physical build, he could enhance his performance in board battles and in front of the opposition net by adding some bulk. Nevertheless, his consistency at this level needs improvement.

Aspinall is a skilled skater despite his large size. He excels at moving in a straight line and has the ability to reach his intended destinations on the ice. He demonstrates strong awareness on the ice, exhibits proficient close-handling skills, possesses a powerful shot, showcases excellent vision, and has a high hockey IQ to complement his abilities.

Aspinall lacks a standout skill that guarantees his future as an NHL player, but scouts will appreciate his size. He is a player without clear concerns, and with more experience and added muscle, his physicality and work ethic could make him a hidden gem in the draft.

Kieron Walton – Sudbury Wolves – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Kieron Walton of the Sudbury Wolves. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’6”210Apr22, 2006LWL28th 2022117th N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022AAA U16North York Rangers43332760
2022-2023OHLSudbury Wolves468513
2023-2024OHLSudbury Wolves65182543

When analyzing Kieron Walton, it is important to move past the statistics, despite them being satisfactory. His performance can be deemed as acceptable, especially when taking into account the Sudbury Wolves’ roster depth and the challenging circumstances that sometimes-hindered Walton’s point output.

Walton’s height is the initial standout feature, as he is tall and already well-proportioned. Despite his size, he is a strong skater with impressive speed. His ability to strategize at a high level, paired with his speed and size, positions him as a dominant player in both the cycle game and on the rush.

Walton’s scoring abilities are well-established, but it is his playmaking skills that could truly shine. His proficiency in puck possession, combined with his size that makes him difficult to dispossess, high hockey IQ, and exceptional vision, may elevate his playmaking to his standout strength.

Walton’s size is bound to attract attention on its own. When you consider his skating ability, he becomes even more fascinating. You simply need to believe that you have witnessed enough potential in his limited role to anticipate much more in the future.

All games of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series will be live on TSN and RDS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
TSN will air complete coverage of all three of the CHL’s member leagues (WHL, OHL & QMJHL) Championship Series, while RDS will showcase the entire QMJHL Championship Series

TORONTO, ON — With the remaining six teams set to compete for both their league title and a spot in the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is excited to announce that viewers will be able to catch the entirety of the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) Championship Series on TSN and RDS.

Starting tomorrow (May 9), TSN will provide complete coverage of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series, while RDS will showcase the entire QMJHL Championship Series – the latter of which also gets started tomorrow (see the full schedule for each Championship Series below). Full coverage of the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL Championship Series will also be available on CHL TV to fans worldwide, while select games will air on NHL Network in the United States.

Each champion from the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL will earn a place alongside the host Saginaw Spirit at the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow from May 23 – June 2 in Saginaw, Michigan. Every game of this year’s 2024 Memorial Cup will air on TSN and RDS in Canada and be available via live stream on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In addition to full coverage in Canada on TSN and RDS, the 2024 Memorial Cup will be available in the United States on NHL Network, and for subscribers of CHL TV outside of North America.

2024 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien
Ed Chynoweth Cup

Moose Jaw Warriors (in search of their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance)
Portland Winterhawks (five Memorial Cup Appearances – 1982, 1983, 1986, 1998 & 2013; two Memorial Cup titles – 1983 & 1998)

In the WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien, the Moose Jaw Warriors will be looking to secure their first-ever Ed Chynoweth Cup in franchise history, while the Portland Winterhawks will be aiming for their fourth WHL championship title since the franchise arrived in Portland in 1976. Set to play in their first WHL final in 18 years, the Warriors have been on a tear since February 23, having collected 22 wins and just three regulation losses over their last 29 contests. During the postseason, Moose Jaw has been led by WHL Defenceman of the Year and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Denton Mateychuk (8G-19A in 16 GP), along with Seattle Kraken prospect and the CHL’s regular-season scoring leader Jagger Firkus (12G-15A in 16 GP), who both sit tied for first in the WHL with 27 points during the playoffs. The Warriors have also enjoyed key contributions throughout the postseason from Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Brayden Yager (10G-11A in 16 GP), Buffalo Sabres prospect Matthew Savoie (8G-12A in 15 GP), and 20-year-old Atley Calvert (6G-9A in 16 GP). Meanwhile, on the other side, the Winterhawks are playing in their first WHL Championship Series in 10 years, thanks in part to the performance of 2023 Detroit Red Wings first-rounder Nate Danielson (5G-16A in 14 GP) who leads the team in scoring. Portland finished the 2023-24 campaign as the highest-scoring team in the CHL, averaging 4.85 goals per game. Their roster features seven NHL prospects including Edmonton Oilers prospect James Stefan (7G-8A in 14 GP), Seattle Kraken prospect Tyson Jugnauth (4G-11A in 14 GP), and Philadelphia Flyers prospect Carter Sotheran (4G-7A in 14 GP). The Winterhawks have also enjoyed strong goaltending from netminder Jan Špunar who figures among the WHL leaders in GAA (2.32) and SV% (.923) during the postseason.

2024 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien Schedule
Game 1^ – Friday, May 10 – Moose Jaw at Portland – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN4/5)
Game 2^ – Saturday, May 11 – Moose Jaw at Portland – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT (on TSN3/4)
Game 3^ – Tuesday, May 14 – Portland at Moose Jaw  – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT
Game 4^ – Wednesday, May 15 – Portland at Moose Jaw – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT
Game 5*^ – Friday, May 17 – Portland at Moose Jaw – 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT
Game 6*^ – Sunday, May 19 – Moose Jaw at Portland – Time To Be Confirmed
Game 7*^ – Monday, May 20 – Moose Jaw at Portland – Time To Be Confirmed

* = if necessary
^ = TSN national broadcast
Channel designations are subject to change
TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed

2024 OHL Championship Series
Ross Robertson Cup

London Knights (five Memorial Cup appearances – 2005, 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2016; two Memorial Cup titles – 2005 & 2016)
Oshawa Generals (12 Memorial Cup appearances – 1938, 1939, 1940, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1966, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1997 & 2015; five Memorial Cup titles – 1939, 1940, 1944, 1990 & 2015)

The London Knights are back in the OHL Championship Series for a second straight year, once again vying for a fifth J. Ross Robertson Cup. Standing in their way are the Oshawa Generals who will be looking to add to the record 13 OHL Championship titles that they have accrued in club history. London was just one of four teams in the CHL to win 50 games this season and they earned the 2023-24 Hamilton Spectator Trophy as the OHL’s regular season champions. So far through three rounds, the Knights have enjoyed strong performances in the postseason from San Jose Sharks prospect Kasperi Haltunnen (9G-6A in 14 GP), Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan (7G-12A in 14 GP), and Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Max McCue (2G-15A in 14 GP). London is also backstopped by last year’s 2023 OHL Playoff MVP, Michael Simpson, who enters the OHL Championship Series with a 2.59 GAA and .911 SV%. Meanwhile, 2023 Colorado Avalanche first-round pick and Generals forward Calum Ritchie (6G-19A in 17 GP) leads all active players remaining in the OHL Playoffs with 25 points through 17 games. His teammate, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Beckett Sennecke (10G-12A in 16 GP), stands behind him with 22 points, while New York Rangers prospect Dylan Roobroeck (10G-11A in 17 GP) ranks fifth among OHL skaters in playoff scoring with 21 points. 2024 OHL Goaltender of the Year Jacob Oster has carried over his excellent play from the regular season into the postseason as the Oshawa netminder ranks second in GAA (2.29) and third in SV% (.923) among OHL goaltenders in the playoffs. The Generals, who will be playing in their first OHL Championship Series since 2015, won 31 of their final 43 games (31-7-4-1) in the regular season to climb out from the bottom of the standings to secure first place in both their division and conference ahead of the playoffs.

2024 OHL Championship Series Schedule
Game 1^ – Thursday, May 9 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN3)
Game 2^ – Saturday, May 11 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on TSN3)
Game 3^ – Monday, May 13 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT
Game 4^ – Wednesday, May 15 – London at Oshawa – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT
Game 5*^ – Friday, May 17 – Oshawa at London – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT
Game 6*^ – Sunday, May 19 – London at Oshawa – Time To Be Confirmed
Game 7*^ – Monday, May 20 – Oshawa at London – Time To Be Confirmed

* = if necessary
^ = TSN national broadcast
Channel designations are subject to change
TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed

2024 QMJHL Championship Series
Gilles-Courteau Trophy

Baie-Comeau Drakkar (in search of their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance)
Drummondville Voltigeurs (three Memorial Cup appearances – 1988, 1991 & 2009)

In the QMJHL, the Baie-Comeau Drakkar are in search of both their first Gilles-Courteau Trophy and Memorial Cup appearance in franchise history, while the Drummondville Voltigeurs are looking to earn a second QMJHL Championship title having previously won in 2009. With a franchise-record 53 wins this season, the Drakkar won more games than any club in the CHL and they gave up the fewest amount of goals alongside the Saskatoon Blades, as both clubs allowed just 2.40 goals per game during the 2023-24 campaign. Set to play in their third QMHJL final and their first one since 2014, Baie-Comeau has been led in the playoffs by 2024 NHL Draft prospect Justin Poirier (17G-8A in 13 GP) who has registered a QMJHL-leading 17 goals and 25 points through three rounds. His 17 goals this postseason are the most by a 17-year-old QMJHL skater in 44 years (Dale Hawerchuk – Cornwall Royals – 20 goals in 1980). Right behind Poirier, sitting in second in scoring during the QMJHL playoffs, is New York Islanders prospect Justin Gill (10G-14A in 13 GP) with 24 points, while Latvian defenceman Niks Fenenko (4G-11A in 13 GP) leads all QMJHL defencemen with 15 points. The Drakkar’s goaltending has also been a position of strength through the playoffs as Charles-Édward Gravel ranks first among QMJHL goalies in GAA (1.89) and third in SV% (.924) during the postseason. Conversely, Voltigeurs netminder Riley Mercer has been excellent for Drummondville. With a QMJHL-best .927 SV% and a solid 2.07 GAA through 15 games, Mercer has played a big part in helping the Voltigeurs ascend to their fifth QMJHL Championship Series in franchise history. Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Ethan Gauthier (10G-10A in 15 GP) leads all Voltigeurs skaters with 20 points in the playoffs, while Philadelphia Flyers prospect Alexis Gendron (8G-5A in 11 GP) has collected 13 points in 11 playoff games since returning from injury. Averaging 4.5 goals per game, the Voltigeurs were the highest-scoring team in the QMJHL this season. Drummondville was also one of eight teams in the CHL to top the 100-point plateau, having accomplished the feat for only the fourth time in franchise history and for the first time since 2019.

2024 QMJHL Championship Series Schedule
Game 1# – Thursday, May 9 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS2 & TSN2)
Game 2# – Friday, May 10 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS & TSN5)
Game 3# – Monday, May 13 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)
Game 4# – Tuesday, May 14 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)
Game 5*# – Thursday, May 16 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)
Game 6*# – Saturday, May 18 – Baie-Comeau at Drummondville – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)
Game 7*# – Tuesday, May 21 – Drummondville at Baie-Comeau – 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT (on RDS)

* = if necessary
# = RDS & TSN national broadcast
Channel designations are subject to change
TSN channel designations for Game 3-7 to be confirmed

FRONTENACS’ VACCARI AWARDED DAN SNYDER MEMORIAL TROPHY AS OHL HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs is the 2023-24 recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy presented annually to the OHL’s Humanitarian of the Year.

Through his “Mason’s Miracles” initiative, Vaccari has raised more than $13,200 for the Pediatric Wing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, a figure that will continue to grow into the summer.

At the outset of the season, Vaccari prioritized using his athletic gifts to make an impact in the lives of children, setting up various fundraising initiatives to benefit the local hospital. He started by donating .50 cents of his own money for each of the 1,458 saves he’d go on to make during the 2023-24 season, a figure that would be matched by generous community supporters. Members of the Kingston hockey community donated at a link created through canadahelps.org throughout the season, further bolstering Vaccari’s fundraising efforts.

The 19-year-old goaltender also went to great lengths to form personal connections with young patients in the Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s Pediatric Wing, making visits there on off-days throughout the season.

“Being recognized with this award is truly an honour,” said Vaccari. “When the idea of Mason’s Miracles first started, the goal was to give back to the community that has given my teammates and I a home away from home. I’m very proud to have surpassed our goal of raising $10,000 for the Pediatric ward and am confident that this money will go a long way toward making a difference for children needing care at the hospital.

“I’d especially like to thank Charette Custom Homes for believing in me, this mission, and matching my donations over the course of the year. I’d also like to thank the doctors, nurses and families who allowed my teammates and I to spend time with and get to know some of the children within the ward. I really enjoyed my visits and these were some of my favourite memories of the season.

Finally, I’d like to thank everyone including my family, friends, billets, the rest of the Frontenacs organization, and everyone else who has made a donation online, contributed their time to get the word out, and sent me messages of encouragement along the way. I am so grateful for your support and I couldn’t have accomplished any of this without you.”

An 89 percent student in his final semester of high school, Vaccari quickly enrolled in online university prep courses including Economics and Human Development to close out 2023-24. He got creative in his fundraising work, holding a design-a-mask contest that continues to raise funds through an online auction that is still ongoing here.

“We are extremely proud of Mason for his efforts in our community,” said Frontenacs General Manager Kory Cooper. “When players arrive in Kingston, we stress the importance of being involved in the community and being good people on and off the ice. Mason has taken that to the next level this season. He provides us with a great example of what players in our organization and our league can accomplish with their platform. Mason is deserving of this award, and he should be proud of what he has accomplished with Mason’s Miracles.”

Vaccari, who hails from Mississauga, Ont., was busy in the crease as well, appearing in 59 games while going 27-27-3-0 with a 3.55 goals-against average and .880 save percentage. His 1,458 saves were the fourth-most in the OHL this season. The former fourth round pick by Kingston in 2021 has played to a career regular season mark that includes a record of 38-41-3-0 with a 3.54 goals-against average and .887 save percentage over 88 games.

Vaccari was the front-runner for this year’s OHL Humanitarian of the Year Award, with North Bay Battalion defenceman Ty Nelson finishing as the runner-up for his tremendous efforts with Community Living North Bay.

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.

Vaccari follows Andrew Raycroft (1999-2000) and David Ling (1994-95) to become the third player in Frontenacs franchise history to win the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. Other recent OHL recipients include Dalyn Wakely of the North Bay Battalion (2022-23) and Mark Woolley of the Owen Sound Attack (2021-22).

Vaccari will be the OHL’s nominee for the Canadian Hockey League Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented at the CHL Awards Ceremony on Saturday, June 1 during the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow which takes place in Saginaw, Michigan from May 24 through June 2. Vaccari will be formally presented with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy at the OHL Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

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

“For many kids, coming to the hospital for care or treatment can be scary. One of the goals of our team is to make the hospital stay as positive as possible. When Mason offered to spend some time visiting patients, he didn’t just brighten their afternoon – he made a positive impact on their entire hospital experience. This was especially apparent when visiting patients in our pediatric oncology playroom. Here he spent time playing mini-sticks, bubble hockey & video games with a handful of hockey-obsessed kids, bursting with excitement to face-off against a real OHL goalie.

Our hospitals rely on the generosity of donors to fund things like equipment and patient care items. Mason’s fundraising and monetary donation has the potential to make an impact on young patients for years to come and goes a long way in inspiring a culture of philanthropy among his peers and fans.”

– Erika Kooi (Program Manager – Pediatrics, NICU & Child Life at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre)

OSHAWA GENERALS WIN BOBBY ORR TROPHY AS EASTERN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Oshawa, Ont. – The Oshawa Generals had their hands full with the North Bay Battalion in the Eastern Conference Championship Series, but managed to avert disappointment with an impressive 6-1 victory in Game 7 on Monday night at the Tribute Communities Centre.

New York Rangers prospect Dylan Roobroeck had two goals and an assist as the Generals halted the Battalion, who entered the seventh and deciding game on the heels of three consecutive wins, looking to overcome a 3-0 series deficit. Sunday’s Game 6 outcome saw the Battalion win by a score of 8-1.

“The kids were incredible tonight, starting with Jacob Oster,” said Generals head coach Derek Laxdal. “He set the tone right off the hop. We got that first goal and I thought our guys did an incredible job of checking and shutting down North Bay tonight.

“You gotta give the kids a lot of credit. They believed that they could win Game 7 at home today. It was a tough game getting beat 8-1, but for them to respond that way today, I’m very proud of them as a coach. In all my years coaching that was one of the best efforts I’ve seen in a Game 7 to shut down the other team.”

Defenceman David Bedkowski opened the scoring with his first career OHL playoff goal coming with 5:53 remaining in the first period. Rasmus Kumpulainen and Connor Lockhart scored in the second to give Oshawa a 3-0 lead after 40 minutes.

Roobroeck scored his first of two 2:08 into the third before North Bay’s Jacob LeBlanc spoiled Oster’s shutout bid just under four minutes later. Roobroeck scored his 10th of the postseason before Ethan Toms hit the empty net in the game’s final minute to seal the 6-1 final.

The Generals win their first Bobby Orr Trophy since 2015, their second since the trophy was first awarded in 1999. They advance to the OHL Championship Series following series victories over the Barrie Colts, Ottawa 67’s and North Bay Battalion.

The Troops see their playoff run come to an end after they eliminated Kingston and Sudbury to reach their third consecutive East Final. It marks the second straight year they’ve fallen in Game 7.

“The entire playoff run with this team, I’m just so impressed with our guys,” said Battalion head coach Ryan Oulahen. “I’m proud of our team and our players. We came up a little bit short once again but we’re going to talk about this team for decades – the way we’ve been able to change the culture and make North Bay a destination for people to want to come and play for the Battalion.”

The Battalion played to a regular season mark of 39-20-7-2, winning a third straight Central Division title. Overage players in captain Liam Arnsby, Paul Christopoulos and Justin Ertel skated in their final OHL contest.

The Oshawa Generals advance to the 2024 OHL Championship Series as they face the London Knights in an encounter that begins on Thursday night in London. The series will be broadcast in its entirety on TSN, the official broadcast partner of the Canadian Hockey League.

Generals captain Stuart Rolofs was presented with the Bobby Orr Trophy by OHL Vice President Cole Butterworth. The Generals won a previous Eastern Conference title in 2015 en route to their 13th OHL championship, the most by any of the league’s 20 teams.

All-time Generals great Eric Lindros was on-hand to conduct the ceremonial faceoff prior to a Game 7 played before a crowd of 5,694 at the Tribute Communities Centre.

OHL ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR 2024 OHL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the schedule of games for the 2024 OHL Championship Series that is set to take place between the Western Conference champion London Knights and the Eastern Conference champion Oshawa Generals.

Oshawa advanced to the OHL Championship Series following a 6-1 win over the North Bay Battalion in a Monday night Game 7 matchup, winning their first Bobby Orr Trophy since 2015, the same year they won a Memorial Cup title. Oshawa has eliminated the Barrie Colts, Ottawa 67’s and North Bay Battalion thus far on their playoff quest.

The Knights come off their second-straight Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference Champions, eliminating the Saginaw Spirit in six games. The Knights reached last year’s OHL Championship Final before falling in six games to the Peterborough Petes. London eliminated the Flint Firebirds and Kitchener Rangers with consecutive series sweeps before besting Saginaw in the West Final.

The 2024 OHL Championship Series will be broadcast in its entirety on TSN, the official broadcast partner of the Canadian Hockey League. Games can also be seen live online across Canada at ohllive.com.

2024 OHL Championship Series Schedule:
Game 1 – Thursday, May 9th at London, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Saturday, May 11th at London, 7:00pm
Game 3 – Monday, May 13th at Oshawa, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Wednesday, May 15th at Oshawa, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Friday, May 17th at London, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sunday, May 19th at Oshawa, Time To Be Confirmed*
Game 7 – Monday, May 20th at London, Time To Be Confirmed*

*if necessary