19 CHL players named to Team Canada’s roster for the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce that 19 CHL players will wear the Maple Leaf as part of Team Canada’s roster at the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship (see complete list below), scheduled from April 25 – May 5 in Espoo and Vantaa, Finland.

Specifically, there are 10 players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), seven players from the Western Hockey League (WHL), and two from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) who will represent Team Canada in their effort to win their first gold medal at this event since 2021. 11 of the 19 players named to Team Canada’s roster were listed in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft earlier this morning.

Among some of the CHL forwards selected were Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs / OHL), and Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL). Greentree and Vanacker led all draft-eligible skaters in the OHL this season with 36 goals, while McKenna finished second among rookie scorers in the CHL by tallying 97 points (34G-63A) in 61 games during the 2023-24 campaign. Additionally, forwards Malcolm Spence (Erie Otters / OHL), Roger McQueen (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL), Porter Martone (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL), and Caleb Desnoyers (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) are among a group of projected 2025 NHL Draft first-round picks on the roster.

On the backend, Team Canada will feature three blueliners who were ranked this morning by NHL Central Scouting in Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL), Harrison Brunicke (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), and Spencer Gill (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL). Gill, who was the top-ranked skater from the QMJHL on NHL Central Scouting’s list, recorded career-highs in goals (12), assists (34), and points (46) this season. Additionally, 2023 OHL first overall pick and defenseman Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters / OHL) will look to secure another gold medal for his country after helping Canada White to the top of the podium at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge last November.

In net, Canada will be led by Carter George (Owen Sound Attack / OHL) and Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL), who were ranked second and tenth respectively by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft. Both Leenders (.909 SV%) and George (.907 SV%) led all OHL goalies in save percentage this season (min. 1600 minutes).

Projected 2024 NHL Draft first-round picks Berkly Catton (Spokane Chiefs / WHL) and Cayden Lindstrom (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) were invited to be a part of the team but are both unable to participate. 

Former Saint John Sea Dogs bench boss and 2022 Memorial Cup champion Gardiner MacDougall will serve as the team’s head coach. He will be joined on the bench by assistant coaches Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL), Bruce Richardson, and Ryan Smith (Spokane Chiefs / WHL) along with goaltending coach Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL).

Canada’s quest for a gold medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship begins April 25 at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT against Sweden. Canada will play Czechia on April 26, Switzerland on April 28, and Kazakhstan on April 30 to close out preliminary-round action. The semifinals are set for May 4 before the tournament concludes with the medal games on May 5.

TSN and RDS, Hockey Canada’s official broadcast partners will broadcast select tournament games, including all Team Canada games and all playoff-round games. Check your local listings for details.

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

​​For more information on Hockey Canada and the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

19 CHL PLAYERS NAMED TO CANADA’S 2024 IIHF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER

Goaltenders (2)
Ryerson Leenders (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL)
Carter George (Owen Sound Attack / OHL)

Defencemen (6)
Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL)
Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters / OHL)
Harrison Brunicke (Kamloops Blazers / WHL)
Reese Hamilton (Calgary Hitmen / WHL)
Spencer Gill (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL)
Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL)

Forwards (11)
Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL)
Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs / OHL)
Malcolm Spence (Erie Otters / OHL)
Roger McQueen (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL)
Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm / OHL)
Ryder Ritchie (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL)
Porter Martone (Mississauga Steelheads / OHL)
Carson Wetsch (Calgary Hitmen / WHL)
Caleb Desnoyers (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL)
Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires / OHL)
Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL)

Berkly Catton (Spokane Chiefs / WHL) and Cayden Lindstrom (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) were invited, but are unable to participate 

Staff
Head Coach – Gardiner MacDougall (former Saint John Sea Dogs head coach)
Assistant Coach – Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL)
Assistant Coach – Ryan Smith (Spokane Chiefs / WHL)
Goaltending Coach – Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL)
Program of Excellence management group representative – Dave Brown (Erie Otters / OHL)
Athletic Therapist – Jimmy McKnight (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL)
Team Physician – Dr. Michael Conrad (Victoria Royals / WHL)

Ben Danford – Oshawa Generals – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Ben Danford of the Oshawa Generals. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’2”190Feb 6, 2006RDR14th, 202232nd, N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022ETAHL U16Quinte Red Devils2672229
2022-2023WHC U17Canada Red7112
2022-2023OHLOshawa Generals6341721
2023-2024Hlinka/
Gretzky		Canada5000
2023-2023OHLOshawa Generals6413233

Last season, rookie defenseman Ben Danford demonstrated defensive maturity beyond his years. This season, he has elevated his game even further. If defensive prowess in his own zone is all Danford achieves at the next level, there will still be demand for a big, right-handed blueliner with sound defensive instincts.

Danford’s competitiveness in his own zone stands out. He just doesn’t want to give his opponents anything. He takes away time and space with solid gap control and has a very active stick. He battles hard along the walls and behind the goal line. He can make life difficult for opponents in front of his own net. Yet he’s not really considered physical because he doesn’t go out looking to make a hit. Physicality comes in many forms though. He’s also an excellent shot blocker.

While Danford’s skating ability is currently average, lacking speed and agility, he uses it effectively to maintain gaps and force opponents to the outside. Moreover, he selectively jumps into the offensive play, joining rushes and leading breakouts, displaying wise decision-making and considerable improvement over the past year.

Danford is skilled at protecting his own blue line and maintaining the offensive zone with equal proficiency. He has a talent for sustaining offensive pressure, using his hockey intelligence to get pucks to the net from the point. While his shot may lack overpowering velocity, he generates rebounds and second chances.

Danford needs another season to demonstrate sustained offensive growth before determining if his skills will transfer successfully to the next level. Currently, he is tracking towards a promising career as a defensively skilled player with room to build an effective offensive dimension over time.

ROOBROECK AND MCIVOR 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, April 14, 2024.



Generals’ Dylan Roobroeck Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

New York Rangers prospect Dylan Roobroeck of the Oshawa Generals is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week for the second time this season, recording two goals and four assists in a pair of playoff contests.

Helping the Generals take a 2-0 second round series lead over the Ottawa 67’s, Roobroeck opened up the week with a four-point performance in a 4-3 Game 1 victory on Friday, registering a goal and three assists to earn second star honours. He proceeded to pick-up third star recognition on Sunday, tallying a goal and an assist as the Generals defeated the 67’s 6-1 at home.

A 19-year-old from London, Ont., Roobroeck recorded 72 points (26-46–72) through 68 regular season outings. Originally selected in the third round (45th overall) by the Niagara IceDogs in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection from the London Jr. Knights AAA U16 program, Roobroeck has tallied 49 goals, 97 assists, and 146 points over 200 regular season games between the Generals and the IceDogs. The New York Rangers’ sixth round (178th overall) pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-7, 195lb. forward leads all point-getters in the OHL Playoffs, registering 13 points (5-8-13) in eight post-season games.

Also considered for the award this week, Seattle Kraken prospect Eduard Sale of the Kitchener Rangers tallied three goals and two assists in two games played, while Boston Bruins prospect Jackson Edward of the London Knights helped his team take a 2-0 series lead over the Kitchener Rangers, registering a goal and a trio of assists.

2023-24 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs:
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)
 



Battalion’s Mike McIvor Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Rookie netminder Mike McIvor of the North Bay Battalion is the OHL Goaltender of the Week, playing to a 2-0 record along with a 1.50 goals-against average, and .954 save percentage.

McIvor helped the Battalion climb out to a 2-0 second round series lead against the Sudbury Wolves. He earned second star honours on Thursday night, turning aside 27 of the 29 shots he faced as North Bay defeated the Wolves 5-2. McIvor again earned second star honours on Saturday, blocking 35 of the 36 shots that came his way in a 5-1 win at home.

An 18-year-old native of Warkworth, Ont., McIvor played to a regular season mark of 8-9-0-0 with a 3.78 goals-against average and .876 save percentage over 18 games in his first OHL season. A fourth round (83rd overall) pick by the Battalion in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Quinte Red Devils U16 program, the 6-foot, 165lb. goaltender has appeared in six playoff contests, playing to a 5-1 record along with a 2.27 goals-against average and .916 save percentage.

Also considered for the award this week, Michael Simpson of the London Knights went 2-0 along with a 2.00 goals-against average and .918 save percentage to take a two-game second round series lead over the Kitchener Rangers. Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals also played to a 2-0 record along with a 2.00 goals-against average and .934 save percentage to give the Generals a 2-0 series lead over the Ottawa 67’s.

2023-24 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs:
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)

Cole Beaudoin – Barrie Colts – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’2”206Apr 24, 2006CL10th, 202231st, N.A.CANADA
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020HEO U14Ottawa Myers30132740
2021-2022HEO U18Nepean Raiders32245377
2022-2023OHLBarrie Colts6381220
2022-2023WHC U17Canada Black7325
2023-2024Hlinka/GretzkyCanada5336
2023-2024OHLBarrie Colts67283462

Cole Beaudoin is an intriguing prospect who remains somewhat mysterious. If not necessarily the best, he is one of the top 3 defensive forwards in the draft class. Beaudoin boasts high-level skills for disrupting plays in the neutral zone, blocking passing lanes in his own end, and maintaining excellent defensive positioning. His penalty killing abilities are also nearly unmatched at this level.

Consistency is a concern, as his performance fluctuates dramatically both shift-to-shift and game-to-game. He is prone to disappearing acts that leave you questioning if he even played, yet also capable of impressive displays reminiscent of the player you hoped to see.

Offensively, Beaudoin has not lived up to expectations despite driving play in top international tournaments like the World Hockey Challenge Under-17 and Hlinka-Gretzky Cup even though he neared a point per game. His league play has been underwhelming in that department.

One season ago, his skating skills were rightly questioned. He has clearly put in effort to improve those abilities, but still has more work to do. Adding speed, improving lateral movement and edge work would benefit his skating.

The most intriguing aspect is Beaudoin’s evident maturity and skill when fully engaged, which suggest he could reach the NHL level if he continues improving his skating and consistency.

That’s worth a mid-second round pick to me.

OHL COMPLETES 2024 PRIORITY SELECTION PRESENTED BY REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today concluded the 2024 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore for North American players born predominantly in 2008.

The annual Priority Selection was held online over a span of two days, with Day 1 and 2 coverage produced by YourTV, airing across the province on YourTV, Rogers tv and Eastlink community stations as well as on the OHL Action Pak. Both days of the annual event were streamed for free in their entirety on OHL Live.

A total of 302 players were selected in the 15-round process from 78 different programs. The selected players included 170 forwards, 102 defencemen, and 30 goaltenders. A total of 298 of the players chosen were 2008-born athletes while two were born in 2007 and two were born in 2006.

The Windsor Spitfires made the first overall pick after winning the 2024 OHL Priority Selection Draft Lottery held on March 27. The Spitfires selected 2008-born forward Ethan Belchetz of the Oakville Rangers to open the proceedings.

“Congratulations to the remarkable 302 players drafted in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, a testament to your unwavering commitment and dedication,” said Darrell Woodley, Director of OHL Central Scouting. “Being selected is a tremendous achievement, to be shared with family, friends, coaches and mentors who’ve fuelled your journeys thus far. This is only the beginning as you prepare to reach your full potential throughout your junior careers. Your draft number matters less than the resilience, integrity, and skill you continue to develop on the ice. Success awaits those with the right mindset and determination, even beyond today’s selection. To all players, whether drafted or not, your pursuit of hockey and academic excellence holds endless opportunity, with the chance to also find success through next year’s Under-18 Priority Selection. Best of luck to all players in pursuit of your on and off ice goals!”

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association led the way with 103 selections from 19 different teams with the OMHA champion Barrie Jr. Colts leading with 14 picks, while the OHL Cup champion Oakville Rangers developed 12 and the U16 Peterborough Petes produced 10. The Greater Toronto Hockey League had 77 players selected from 11 different teams, as the GTHL finalist North York Rangers led the way with 16 selections. The Toronto Marlboros and GTHL champion Vaughan Kings trailed close behind with 13 selected players each. The Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario produced 40 selections from 11 different teams with the Elgin-Middlesex Canucks on top of the list with nine players selected, followed closely by the London Jr. Knights with eight. Hockey Eastern Ontario saw 26 players find their way onto OHL Draft boards from five different teams with the Upper Canada Cyclones and Ottawa Myers Automotive each leading with seven. The Northern Ontario Hockey Association had 13 players selected from across five teams as the Sudbury Wolves developed five, followed by the Soo Jr. Greyhounds with four. An additional four prospects were selected from Ontario-based junior teams, along with an out of province and Canadian Prep School player.  A total of 34 players were chosen from across 22 different American-based teams led by Detroit Little Caesars with five players chosen, followed closely by Shattuck-St. Mary’s School, Detroit HoneyBaked, and the Chicago Mission with four each. An additional two players were chosen from U.S Prep Schools, while one was selected from an American-based Junior program.

This season marked the 24th straight year the Priority Selection was conducted by way of the internet, carried out in partnership with RinkNet.

Marek Vanacker – Brantford Bulldogs – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Marek Vanacker of the Brantford Bulldogs. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
6’1”170Apr 12, 2006LWL23rd, 202225th, N.A.CANADA
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2021-2022Alliance U16Brantford 99ers23192645
2022-2023WHC U17Canada Black7033
2022-2023OHLHamilton Bulldogs5541216
2023-2024OHLBrantford Bulldogs68364682

Marek Vanacker has shown immense skill by increasing production fivefold over the last year. This dramatic improvement is no mere stroke of luck.

He is an elite skater and one of the quickest players in the draft class, excelling in edgework, first strides, and top speed. His ability to rapidly accelerate and decelerate on his blades throws off opponents. Leveraging his skating prowess, he attacks the net with and without the puck. Adding more lateral agility could make him even more dangerous, though his skating raises no major concerns.

Vanacker is an excellent puck handler. His skating allows him to dangle past defenders and drive the puck into space. With good vision and playmaking ability, he can find teammates for scoring chances. He also recognizes when to shoot himself, firing hard wrist shots that challenge goalies. Varying his release point and shot placement as well as improving his accuracy would make him even more dangerous.

Defensively, Vanacker leverages his speed and hockey IQ to his advantage. With quick reactions, he slides into passing lanes to stymie opponents’ chances. Wielding an active stick, he disrupts plays and swiftly turns defense to offense. Though presently a decent sized winger, he has the frame to add muscle and more physicality when he does so.

Vanacker currently projects as a reliable two-way forward who can contribute secondary scoring from a middle six position in the NHL. But don’t be surprised if there is more to come.

OHL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM INVESTMENT TOPS $3.2 MILLION IN 2023-24

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that a total of 331 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions during the 2023-24 academic year. OHL member teams made a total contribution of over $3.2 million to the OHL Scholarship Program.

A total of 228 OHL graduates competed in the U SPORTS Men’s Hockey ranks this season, while an additional 26 accessed their scholarships while playing professionally.

Centrally administered through the OHL Office, OHL Scholarships are funded by OHL member teams. Every player who plays in the OHL is eligible to receive an OHL Scholarship. The OHL graduate can utilize their scholarship worldwide at any post-secondary institution or in any career-enhancing program of their choice, including trade schools or professional career training programs.

In addition to alumni accessing their OHL Scholarship following graduation from the League, all current OHL players are encouraged to enroll in post-secondary courses with costs fully covered by OHL member teams. Team investment in scholarships being accessed by current OHL players was approximately $450,000 during the 2023-24 season.

“Investing in the OHL Scholarship Program is a key part of the player experience, and it’s something that the OHL and its member teams take great pride in,” said Commissioner David Branch. “The education of our current and former players is crucial for their growth, and helping them achieve their academic goals is a top priority for our League. The OHL continues to source talent to both the National Hockey League and U SPORTS Men’s Hockey Programs, highlighting our dedication to developing well-rounded individuals on and off the ice.”

This year, 310 of the 331 OHL Scholarship recipients are furthering their education at Canadian Universities. A total of 183 graduates are attending Ontario-based Universities with the University of Guelph leading all post-secondary institutions with 22 OHL graduates enrolled in full-time studies, while 16 former OHL players are enrolled at Queen’s University and 15 are studying at Toronto Metropolitan University. A total of 64 OHL graduates are attending Universities in Eastern Canada with the University of New Brunswick and University of Prince Edward Island each leading the way in enrolment. Thirteen graduates have accessed their OHL Scholarship at Universities in Western Canada while three have attended Universities in Quebec.

A total of 25 OHL Scholarship recipients are attending Ontario-based Colleges with Conestoga College and Humber College each leading the way with three graduates.

A total of 20 OHL graduates are accessing their OHL Scholarship while studying at American-based post-secondary institutions while one is enrolled in an institution outside of North America.

OHL member teams have invested in excess of $33 million into the OHL Scholarship Program over the past 10 seasons.

RANGERS’ MATTHEW SOP AWARDED LEO LALONDE MEMORIAL TROPHY AS OVERAGE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Kitchener Rangers forward Matthew Sop is the 2023-24 recipient of the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy awarded to the League’s Overage Player of the Year as voted by OHL General Managers.

A 21-year-old from Kitchener, Sop racked up 43 goals and 90 points over 67 games in his third season. He finished tied with teammate Carson Rehkopf for the league-lead in game-winning goals with 10, and was knotted with Sudbury’s Quentin Musty for the most overtime goals with five. He also led Kitchener in shorthanded goals with three.

“This recognition from the league means a lot to me,” said Sop of the honour. “I am really honoured to receive it, but I definitely could not have gotten it without all of my teammates and coaches around me!”

Sop’s production climbed over each of his three OHL seasons, starting with 22 points (10-12—22) as a rookie in 2021-22, climbing to 56 points (23-33—56) in 2022-23 to 90 (43-47—90) this past season, giving the former seventh-round pick in 2019 a total of 169 points (76-93—169) over 203 regular season games with his hometown Rangers.

“We are so excited and proud of Matthew on this individual accomplishment,” said Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. “It has been tremendous to see the growth in his game throughout his career with the Rangers and this is well-earned recognition for a great season.

“Also, as a seventh-round pick, it is fitting this award will be handed out on OHL Draft weekend,” McKenzie added. “Matthew is another example that development looks different for everyone and players that aren’t top picks can still make a big impact.”

Sop becomes the fourth player in Kitchener Rangers history to earn Overage Player of the Year recognition, following Jason Akeson (2010-11), Andre Benoit (2004-05) and Joey St. Aubin (1990-91).

Owen Sound Attack forward Deni Goure finished as runner-up in award voting.

The Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the Top Overage Player of the Year as selected by OHL General Managers. Teams were asked to submit a nominee for the award and were not permitted to vote for players from their own hockey club.

First presented in 1984, the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy was donated by the trainers of the Ontario Hockey League, in memory of the late Leo Lalonde, former Chief Scout of OHL Central Scouting. Leo Lalonde was also former the Chief Scout for the Belleville Bulls as well as a scout for the Peterborough Petes.

Sop joins a list of other accomplished recent recipients in last year’s winner Matthew Maggio of the Windsor Spitfires, North Bay Battalion graduate Brandon Coe (2021-22) and former Ottawa 67’s forward Austen Keating (2019-20).

OHL COMPLETES OPENING THREE ROUNDS OF 2024 PRIORITY SELECTION PRESENTED BY REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League completed the opening three rounds of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore on Friday, with a total of 62 players hearing their names called to begin the proceedings that continue on Saturday morning, with Rounds 4-15 commencing at 9:00am.

The Priority Selection is being streamed live for free on OHL Live, and can also be viewed on YourTV, Rogers tv and Eastlink community stations.

Twenty-one players from across 11 different organizations were chosen in the first round of Friday’s first round.

The Windsor Spitfires kicked-off the proceedings with the selection of OHL Cup champion and MVP Ethan Belchetz of the Oakville Rangers, making him the second player to be chosen first overall in franchise history. Following in the 6-foot-5, 233lb. power-forward’s footsteps, Oakville teammates in Evan Headrick and Ryder Carey were swiftly picked back-to-back later in the first round, going 15th and 16th overall to the Kitchener Rangers and North Bay Battalion respectively.

Forwards in OHL Cup Finalist Alessandro Di Iorio of the Vaughan Kings (2nd overall, Sarnia) and hometown product Colin Fitzgerald (3rd overall, Peterborough) followed, while Braidy Wassilyn joined the Priority Selection’s Top-4 as Niagara’s 2024 first round choice.

The Sudbury Wolves claimed the first defenceman in this year’s Priority Selection, with Pittsburgh Penguins Elite rearguard and Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. native Luca Blonda going 12th overall. Meanwhile, the Ottawa 67’s made a notable move of their own by picking up Kohyn Eshkawkogan as the second blueliner off the board, selecting him 21st overall. He joined 11th overall selection Nathan Amidovski of the Barrie Jr. Colts to give the 67’s a pair of first round selections.

The first round consisted of 11 players chosen from the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), seven players selected from the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA), one player selected from the ALLIANCE, one from another Canadian U18 AAA program and one from a U.S.-based program.

The OHL Cup champion Oakville Rangers joined the Barrie Jr. Colts and North York Rangers with three players selected in the opening round of the OHL Priority Selection. Barrie led all teams through Friday’s opening three rounds, with a total of seven players selected followed closely by the Vaughan Kings, who had six.

A total of four players chosen in the first round were members of Team Canada’s fourth-place finishing team at the 2024 Youth Olympics in Gangwon, South Korea this past January including Alessandro Di Iorio (2nd overall, Sarnia), Braidy Wassilyn (4th overall, Niagara), Adam Valentini (13th overall, Mississauga) and Aiden O’Donnell (14th overall, Brantford).

Of the 21 players selected in the first round, 18 will be eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. 12th overall pick Luca Blonda (Pittsburgh Penguins Elite), 19th overall pick Dimian Zhilkin (Saginaw Spirit) and 21st overall pick Kohyn Eshkawkogan (Ottawa 67’s) are late birthdays and won’t be NHL Draft eligible until 2027.

The first round saw 19 forwards and two defencemen chosen by OHL clubs.

2024 OHL Priority Selection – First Round Selections:

Click on player name to watch profile video

1. Windsor Spitfires – Ethan Belchetz (Oakville Rangers) – 6.04.5, 233Ib., LW

2. Sarnia Sting – Alessandro Di Iorio (Vaughan Kings) – 5.11.75, 165Ib., C

3. Peterborough Petes – Colin Fitzgerald – 6.02, 178Ib., C

4. Niagara IceDogs – Braidy Wassilyn (Markham Majors) – 6.01, 195Ib., C

5. Barrie Colts – Parker Vaughan (Elgin-Middlesex Canucks) – 6.00.75, 173Ib., RW

6. Flint Firebirds – Cole Zurawski (Mississauga Rebels) – 5.11.5, 169Ib., RW

7. Owen Sound Attack – Pierce Mbuyi (Toronto Marlboros) – 5.10, 144Ib., LW

8. Kingston Frontenacs – Caleb Malhotra (Vaughan Kings) – 6.00.5, 154Ib., C

9. Guelph Storm – Alex McLean (Barrie Jr. Colts) – 5.09.5, 162Ib., C

10. Erie Otters – Tyler Challenger (North York Rangers) – 6.01.5, 192Ib., LW

11. Ottawa 67’s – Nathan Amidovski (Barrie Jr. Colts) – 6.01.25, 160Ib., C

12. Sudbury Wolves – Luca Blonda (Pittsburgh Penguins Elite) – 5.10, 170Ib., RD

13. Mississauga Steelheads – Adam Valentini (Toronto Marlboros) – 5.09, 187Ib., C

14. Brantford Bulldogs – Aiden O’Donnell (Steele Subaru U18) – 6.00.5, 164Ib., C

15. Kitchener Rangers – Evan Headrick (Oakville Rangers) – 5.06.5, 145Ib., C

16. North Bay Battalion – Ryder Carey (Oakville Rangers) – 6.00.25, 174Ib., C

17. Oshawa Generals – Brady Smith (North York Rangers) – 6.00, 178Ib., RW

18. Soo Greyhounds – Ryder Cali (Markham Majors) – 6.01, 195Ib., C

19. Saginaw Spirit – Dimian Zhilkin (Toronto Jr. Canadiens) – 5.06.75, 145Ib., RW

20. London Knights – Logan Hawery (Barrie Jr. Colts) – 5.09, 168Ib., C

21. Ottawa 67’s – Kohyn Eshkawkogan (North York Rangers) – 5.08.75, 159Ib., RD

Luke Misa – Mississauga Steelheads – Player Profile

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Luke Misa of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by OHL Images.
HTWTDOBPOSSHOHL DRAFTNHLCSNAT
5’10”175Nov 25, 2005CL9th, 202145th, N.A.CAN
SEASONLEAGUETEAMGPGAPTS
2019-2020SCTA U15Oakville Rangers33313162
2021-2022OHLMississauga Steelheads6242226
2022-2023OHLMississauga Steelheads64133043
2023-2024OHLMississauga Steelheads66265581

Having been born in late 2005, Luke Misa has just finished his third OHL season and is now eligible for the NHL Entry Draft for the first time. This impeccable timing aligns with his breakout season.

Misa is an elite skater among this year’s OHL draft prospects, arguably one of the top two or three. He possesses excellent speed paired with superb edgework, enabling him to change direction seamlessly without slowing down. This high-level skating ability is essential for undersized players like Misa.

In his first two OHL seasons, Misa developed a reputation as a playmaking, pass-first player who often declined chances to shoot. This became an area needing improvement. When he started shooting more often, he began scoring goals, boosting his confidence to seize scoring opportunities when warranted. This shift has proven beneficial. He comfortably led the Steelheads with 210 shots on goal.

Misa initially struggled on the power play, but improved as the season went on. Out of his 26 goals, only 6 came with the man advantage, while 15 of his 55 assists were on the power play. This highlights his exceptional even-strength play and 5-on-5 value.

Though Misa shows offensive flair, including scoring shorthanded goals, his defensive game remains a work in progress. He must refine his positioning and avoid over pursuing the puck. With continued effort to mind the details of playing responsibly in his own end, Misa can shore up this fixable weakness.