Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that NHL Draft eligible Saginaw Spirit forward Michael Misa is this year’s recipient of the Red Tilson Trophy, presented annually to the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player as voted by the League’s accredited writers and broadcasters.
Misa led the OHL with 134 points (62-72–134) over 65 games, the most the league has seen since London’s Patrick Kane in 2007. He had multi-point outings in 46 of his 65 contests, with his 134 points tied with John Tavares (2006-07) for the most by an under-18 player since the year 2000. Misa’s 62 goals are tied for the third-most by a draft eligible skater in OHL history.
“I am honoured to receive the Red Tilson Trophy,” said Misa. “None of this would be possible without the hard work of my teammates, the dedication of my coaches and support staff, or the support of my family. I am grateful to each of them, as well as the voters and the league for this recognition.”
Misa’s season was highlighted by a 28-game point streak that spanned from December 29th through March 6th, one that featured 28 goals and 63 points. He becomes the first player in Saginaw Spirit history to win the Red Tilson Trophy, and is the OHL’s first to claim the honour alongside the Eddie Powers Trophy as leading scorer and Bobby Smith Trophy as top scholastic player in the same season since Dave Simpson of the 1981-82 London Knights.
“In my mind, it was never in doubt that Michael was the most outstanding player in our league this season,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “He carried our team on his back when we needed him the most and we’re so proud of him. For him to do all of this in his draft year is even more impressive–people forget he was only 17 to start the year.”
An 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Misa was chosen by Saginaw as an exceptional status first overall OHL Priority Selection choice in 2022 after winning an OHL Cup title with the Mississauga Senators, a tournament that saw him set a new scoring record for the annual showcase. Misa was the OHL’s Rookie of the Year in 2023 and helped the Spirit hoist the Memorial Cup on home ice last summer. He is the Spirit’s all-time leading scorer with 265 points (113-152–265) over 177 career regular season games, and enters the 2025 NHL Draft as the second-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings released on April 15th.
The Red Tilson Trophy is the most prestigious individual award presented by the Ontario Hockey League. First presented in 1945, the trophy is named in honour of Albert “Red” Tilson, who was killed in action in Europe during World War II. Tilson was the OHA scoring champion for the 1942-43 season after scoring 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 22 games with the Oshawa Generals.
Accredited media were asked to select their top choice from a ballot consisting of 20 team-nominated representatives. Misa was this year’s Red Tilson Trophy voting frontrunner with 50 percent of the vote followed by Nick Lardis of the Brantford Bulldogs who garnered 26 percent.
Other recent winners of the Red Tilson Trophy have included London Knights forward Easton Cowan (2023-24), a pair of Windsor Spitfires forwards in Matthew Maggio (2022-23) and Wyatt Johnston (2021-22) along with Ottawa 67’s forward Marco Rossi (2019-20) and Sudbury Wolves goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (2018-19).
Misa will be formally recognized with the Red Tilson Trophy at the 2025 OHL Awards Ceremony to be held at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
For a complete history of OHL award winners, click here.
The CHL was the only development hockey league in the world to feature one player on eight of the 10 participating countries at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship
FRISCO, TX — Tonight, 25 Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players proudly won gold as Canada topped the podium at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship by defeating Sweden 7-0 in Saturday’s final in Frisco, Texas. The victory gave Canada consecutive gold medals at the IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship for the first time in their program’s history.
Having not allowed a goal over the last 144 minutes and 53 seconds of action he saw, Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads / OHL) recorded his second shutout of the tournament by stopping all 28 shots he faced in Saturday’s final. Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds / OHL) led all skaters in the gold medal game with two goals, while Jackson Smith (Tri-City Americans / WHL), Xavier Villeneuve (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL), Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Braeden Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL), and Jack Nesbitt (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) also lit the lamp for Canada.
Named the Top Goalie of the tournament, Ivankovic led all netminders in goals-against average (1.05), save percentage (.960), and shutouts (2) during the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship. In front of Ivankovic, Canada’s blueline contributed 12 goals at the U18s, led by Villeneuve (4G-4A in 7 GP) and Smith (4G-1A in 7 GP), who both recorded four goals in seven games, the most of any defencemen in the tournament. Canadian captain Cootes (6G-6A in 7 GP) led the team in scoring with 12 points through Canada’s undefeated run to a second straight gold medal. Following the gold-medal game, Ivankovic and Martin (3G-8A in 7 GP) were named to the tournament’s Media All-Star Team.
Although his country fell short against Canada in Saturday’s final, Swedish forward Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) put together an impressive performance in Texas as he was identified as the MVP and the Top Forward of the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship. Leading the tournament with 18 points (10G-8A) in seven games, Ekberg established a new single-tournament record for points by a Swede at the U18 World Championship by besting the previous mark of 16. In addition to being one of three CHL players to be selected to the tournament’s Media All-Star Team, Ekberg’s 10 goals were the most of any player at the tournament and now stand as the most-ever by a Swede at this event.
Earlier during the day, Blake Fiddler (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL) and the United States earned bronze by defeating Slovakia 4-3 in overtime. Playing in his hometown of Frisco, Texas, Fiddler registered a pair of goals and added an assist over his seven games at the tournament.
In total, 27 players from the CHL proudly took home medals at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship (see complete list below), including 13 from the Western Hockey League (WHL), 10 players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and four from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL).
A total of 37 CHL players participated in the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship (see complete list below), which was the most of any development hockey league in the world. The CHL was the only development hockey league in the world to feature one player on eight of the 10 participating countries at the tournament, showcasing the league’s global impact and commitment to developing elite talent.
Among the 37 CHL players who participated in the event, 25 of them were listed in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, including Czech defenceman Radim Mrtka (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL), Slovakian forward Andreas Straka (Québec Remparts / QMJHL), and German captain Carlos Händel (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL). There were also nine CHL skaters eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft who competed in the tournament, including seven members of Team Canada (Carels, Villeneuve, Di Iorio, Lin, Roobroeck, Rudolph, Verhoeff).
Following Canada’s gold medal victory on Saturday, Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Tyler Hopkins (Kingston Frontenacs / OHL), Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL), and Cameron Schmidt (Vancouver Giants / WHL) joined Ivankovic, Erie Otters (OHL) defenceman Matthew Schaefer, and Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) forward Caleb Desnoyers as the only players to ever win gold for Team Canada at the U17s, U18s, and Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Team Canada was led by two-time Stanley Cup champion and Guelph Storm head coach Cory Stillman (Guelph Storm / OHL), who served as the squad’s bench boss. He was joined by associate coach Travis Crickard (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL), assistant coach Mathieu Turcotte (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada / QMJHL), and goaltending consultant Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL).
Since 2002, Canada has now won six gold medals at the IIHF U18 World Championship (2003, 2008, 2013, 2021, 2024, 2025), in addition to one silver (2005) and four bronze (2012, 2014, 2015, 2023).
37 CHL PLAYERS COMPETED AT THE 2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the February edition of the CHL Team of the Month presented by CCM for the 2024-25 regular season.
Having registered 13 goals and 34 points through 13 games in February, Seattle Kraken prospect Berkly Catton of the No. 5-ranked Spokane Chiefs (WHL) is making his first appearance of the 2024-25 season in the CHL Team of the Month. Held off the scoresheet on just one occasion last month, the 19-year-old from Saskatoon, Sask., registered 10 multi-point outings, including seven games with three points or more. Catton’s 34 points were one shy of the WHL and CHL leader for February, while his 13 goals last month ranked tied for first in the WHL. Between January 11 to February 23, the Chiefs captain tallied a point in 18 straight games (20G-32A over that stretch), which ranks as the fourth-longest point streak in the WHL this season. Since returning from the 2025 World Juniors on January 10, Catton has amassed 54 points (22G-32A) in 22 games, good for third in the CHL behind only his Chiefs teammate Andrew Cristall (56 points) and Saginaw Spirit defenceman Zayne Parekh (56 points) over that stretch. Thanks in part to Catton’s strong play, the Spokane Chiefs have also climbed up both the CHL Top-10 Rankings and the WHL standings. Over the last month, having registered a 10-1-1-1 record, the Chiefs placed themselves among the Top-5 clubs in the CHL for the first time this season, while also moving into third place in the WHL’s overall standings. Meanwhile, powered by a strong month of February, Catton is up to 101 points (36G-65A) this season, which ranks third in WHL scoring for the 2024-25 campaign. By breaking the 100-point plateau, Catton has also achieved that feat for the second consecutive season. Named to the CHL’s Second All-Star Team in 2023-24, Catton was one of just three players in the CHL to register 50+ goals and 60+ assists last season. By going eighth overall to the Seattle Kraken during the 2024 NHL Draft, Catton became the highest-drafted player from the Spokane Chiefs in 33 years. Internationally, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound centreman has represented Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship where he recorded one assist in four games. Before that, Catton helped his country to gold at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he led all skaters with eight goals and two assists in five tournament games. He’s also previously won a bronze medal at the 2023 IIHF World U18 Championship and silver at the 2022 World U-17 Hockey Challenge. Playing in his third full season in the WHL, Catton was selected by the Spokane Chiefs with the first overall pick in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft.
With an OHL-best 34 points over the last month, just one point shy of the CHL scoring leader for February, 2025 NHL Draft prospect Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL) has earned a spot on the CHL Team of the Month for the second time during the 2024-25 campaign. In 14 games in February, the 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., was never held off the scoresheet as he posted 12 multi-point outings, including five games with three points or more. The latter included the 2024 Memorial Cup champion registering a career-high five points (2G-3A) on February 8 against the Guelph Storm. Misa also lit the lamp in 10 contests over the last month, the latter of which included tallying his third hat-trick of the season on February 15 against the Sudbury Wolves. Having strung together 14 straight games with a point through February, Misa managed to extend his active point streak, which currently stands at 27 consecutive contests – making it the third-longest point streak in the CHL this season (behind Gavin McKenna of the Medicine Hat Tigers – 35 games & Easton Cowan of the London Knights – 29 games). With 122 points (58G-64A) in 58 games, Misa leads both the OHL and CHL in scoring so far through the 2024-25 campaign. If Misa were to win the CHL Top Scorer Award this season, he would become the fifth first-year draft-eligible in the CHL to achieve the feat over the last 20 years, joining a group of alumni that includes Connor Bedard (2022-23), Marco Rossi (2019-20), Patrick Kane (2006-07), and Sidney Crosby (2004-05). Meanwhile, the 2025 NHL Draft prospect is also one of just two skaters in the CHL to have broken the 50-goal plateau in 2024-25, alongside Brantford Bulldogs forward Nick Lardis (66 goals). Drafted with the first overall pick of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Misa is one of nine players in CHL history to have been granted exceptional player status by Hockey Canada. Over his career, Misa has helped Canada win gold at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and he also earned a silver medal at the 2022 World U17 Hockey Challenge playing for Canada Red. Earlier this season, the 18-year-old was one of 13 CHL forwards to help Team CHL defeat the U.S. National Under-18 Team last November in the inaugural 2024 CHL USA Prospects Challenge presented by Kubota Canada. Identified by NHL Central Scouting as the third-ranked skater in North America ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, Misa was one of 17 CHL players ranked by NHL Central Scouting among the top 20 North American skaters in their Midterm Rankings. A little less than a year ago, Misa also played a part in helping the Saginaw Spirit capture their first-ever Memorial Cup in 2024, as they became just the third American franchise to win the CHL’s championship title.
With a CHL-leading 21 goals in 11 games during February, Chicago Blackhawks prospect Nick Lardis of the No.9-ranked Brantford Bulldogs (OHL) is making his first appearance in the CHL Team of the Month for the 2024-25 season. The 19-year-old from Oakville, Ont., failed to find twine in only one game last month, having recorded six multi-goal contests and four hat-tricks in February (on Feb. 2 @ Sudbury, Feb. 14 vs. Niagara, Feb. 20 @ Peterborough, & Feb. 23 @ Ottawa). One of those four hat-tricks saw Lardis register a single-game career-high of four goals against the Sudbury Wolves at the beginning of the month. Having scored a goal in 20 of his last 22 contests, Lardis put together an 18-game goal streak from January 8 to February 20, the longest streak of its kind in the CHL this season. Over the last month, Lardis’ play has helped lift the Bulldogs, as they went 9-1-1-0 in February and entered the CHL Top-10 Rankings for the first time since October 1. Thanks to his big month, Lardis leads the CHL with 66 goals in 2024-25 – eight more than the next closest skater (Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit – 58 goals). The 5-foot-11, 185-pound right-winger is the only player in the CHL to have broken the 60-goal plateau this season, and just the ninth CHL skater to have reached 65 goals over the last 20 years. If he were to hit 70, the Blackhawks prospect would become only the second OHL player to have achieved the feat since 1992 and the first since Oshawa Generals alumnus John Tavares scored 72 during the 2006-07 campaign. Originally selected by the Peterborough Petes sixth overall in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Lardis was acquired by the Bulldogs during the 2022-23 campaign in exchange for two-time OHL champions Gavin White and Avery Hayes. Over the course of this season, Lardis has become the Brantford Bulldogs’ franchise record holder for goals (66) and points (108) – both marks he is likely to build on over the Bulldogs’ remaining seven games. At the 2023 NHL Draft, Lardis was taken in the third round (67th overall) by the Chicago Blackhawks and he signed his entry-level contract with the club in April 2024.
After leading all CHL defencemen with seven goals and 31 points in February, Calgary Flames prospect Zayne Parekh of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL) has earned a spot in the CHL Team of the Month for a second straight month. In 14 games throughout February, the 19-year-old from Nobleton, Ont., registered a point in 13 of those contests. The latter saw Parekh record a total of 10 multi-point games, including a pair of four-point nights to both start and end the month (Feb. 1 vs. Kitchener & Feb. 28 @ Sudbury). Over the course of February, Parekh had 24 assists, which rank tied for first among all players in the CHL. Entering Thursday, the 6-foot, 185-pound defenceman leads all CHL defencemen with 31 goals and 99 points this season. Currently on a nine-game point streak, Parekh recently became just the second defenceman in the CHL to have registered multiple 30-goal seasons in the 21st century, doing so after Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL) alumnus Jonathan Gauthier scored 30-plus goals over consecutive campaigns in 1999-00 and 2000-01. Additionally, by hitting 30 goals in 2024-25, Parekh also became just the second defenceman in OHL/OHA history with multiple 30-goal seasons, following in the footsteps of Oshawa Generals alumnus Bobby Orr who achieved the feat in 1966 (34 goals in 1964-65 & 38 goals in 1965-66). Now sitting just one point shy of 100 points, Parekh will look to become just the fifth CHL rearguard to break the 100-point plateau since 2000 over the final weeks of the 2024-25 campaign. Since January 10, Parekh shares the CHL scoring lead with Spokane Chiefs forward Andrew Cristall having amassed 56 points (19G-37A) in 23 games over that stretch. Last season, in addition to helping the Saginaw Spirit to their first-ever Memorial Cup title, Parekh became the first Spirit player to ever be named the CHL Defenceman of the Year and he was chosen to the CHL’s First All-Star Team after amassing 96 points in 66 games. By going ninth overall to the Calgary Flames at the 2024 NHL Draft, Parekh became the highest-drafted player in Saginaw Spirit history. The 19-year-old was originally taken by Saginaw with the 19th overall pick of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. He has previously helped Canada to gold at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and he competed for Team Red at the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in Moncton, N.B.
After registering four goals and 11 assists over 11 games in February, Utah Hockey Club prospect Justin Kipkie of the Victoria Royals (WHL) is making his first appearance of the 2024-25 campaign in the CHL Team of the Month. Over the last month, the 19-year-old from Calgary, Alta., registered a point in eight of 11 contests, the latter of which included a trifecta of three-point nights (Feb. 4 vs. Kelowna, Feb. 7 @ Tri-City & Feb. 8 @ Spokane). Each of those three-point contests matched Kipkie’s single-game career-high in the WHL, a feat that he has now accomplished six times throughout the current season. Over the course of February, Kipkie’s solid performances also coincided with a strong month for the Victoria Royals, who won nine of 11 games (9-1-0-1) as they sit in first place in the WHL’s B.C. Division heading into Thursday. With 54 points in 56 games, the Royals captain has already set a new career-high this season, besting his previous mark of 54 that he set in 2023-24. At the beginning of the 2024-25 campaign, Kipkie was named the ninth captain in team history. Named a WHL B.C. Division First-Team following the 2023-24 season, the 6-foot-3, 208-pound defenceman was previously drafted 160th overall in the fifth round of the 2023 NHL Draft by the Arizona Coyotes (Utah Hockey Club). Now competing in what is his third full season in the WHL, Kipkie was originally drafted by the Victoria Royals in the sixth round (126th overall) of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft.
Holding a perfect 7-0-0-0 record in February, Detroit Red Wings prospect Rudy Guimond of the No. 1-ranked Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) is making his first-ever appearance in the CHL Team of the Month. Over his seven starts, the 19-year-old from Montreal, Que., allowed one goal or fewer on five occasions during the last month. The latter included a pair of shutouts: the first of which saw Guimond stop all 29 shots he faced against the Cape Breton Eagles on February 1, before he later registered a 20-save shutout against those same Cape Breton Eagles on February 21. The 6-foot-4, 175-pound netminder also made a career-high 42 saves in a big 4-1 victory over the Drummondville Voltigeurs on the last day of the month. In total, Guimond registered four performances with 25-plus saves in February. Over the last month, Guimond posted the CHL’s best goals-against average (1.26) and save percentage (.956) for any goalie with a minimum of five games played. Having been acquired by the Moncton Wildcats this past November after spending two seasons with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders of the USHL, Guimond has provided his new QMJHL club with a big boost in net. The Red Wings prospect has won 13 consecutive games to kick start his QMJHL career, having registered a 1.59 goals-against average, .946 save percentage, and two shutouts over those 13 starts. Of any netminder in the CHL who has played a minimum of 10 games this season, Guimond’s 1.59 GAA and .946 save percentage rank first among that group. He’s also the only goalie within that cohort to have not suffered a loss during the 2024-25 campaign. Drafted in the sixth round (169th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft by the Detroit Red Wings, Guimond is committed to play NCAA Division 1 hockey for Yale University next season in 2025-26.
The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is the only development league in the world to feature at least two alumni on all four countries participating in the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off
TORONTO, ON — As the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off gets set to begin tonight at 8 p.m. ET between Canada and Sweden, a total of 29 CHL alumni (see complete list of players below) will represent their home countries during this new event being held by the NHL and the NHLPA. The 29 CHL graduates represent nearly 30% of all the players competing at the 4 Nations Face-Off – the most of any development hockey league in the world.
Canada leads all participating nations with 20 CHL alumni, followed by Finland (4), the United States (3), and Sweden (2). The CHL is the only development league in the world to feature at least two alumni on each country participating in the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off. In total, there are 14 graduates hailing from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), 11 from the Western Hockey League (WHL), and four from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) participating in the event.
With a tournament-high 20 CHL graduates, Canada will aim to win a seventh championship title at what will be their ninth appearance at an NHL International Tournament. Among the CHL alumni competing at this event for Team Canada are Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (Erie Otters / OHL), Pittsburgh Penguins forward Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), and Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL) – who have all three previously won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s MVP.
On the Swedish roster, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell (Plymouth Whalers / OHL) is one of two CHL graduates featured on the team. Rakell has previously helped his country to gold-medal showings at the 2012 World Junior Championship as well as the 2018 World Championship, where he led Sweden with 14 points (6G-8A) en route to being named to the tournament’s All-Star Team.
On Team Finland, there are a total of four CHL alumni, including Utah Hockey Club defenceman Olli Määttä (London Knights / OHL). As one of just eight Finnish defensemen in NHL history to play at least 700 games, Määttä is a two-time Stanley Cup champion (2016 & 2017) and a two-time OHL champion (2012 & 2013).
Finally, among the three CHL alumni on Team USA is Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk (London Knights / OHL). Tkachuk last represented the United States at the 2016 World Junior Championship when he helped his country secure a bronze medal, the same season in which he won both the OHL championship and Memorial Cup while skating alongside 4 Nations foe and Team Canada forward Mitch Marner (London Knights / OHL).
During the current 2024-25 NHL season, of the more than 925 players who played a game in the NHL, over 400 have developed in the CHL, showcasing once again why the CHL continues to be the number one supplier of talent to the NHL.
Stats & Facts
All 13 forwards and three goaltenders on Team Canada developed through the CHL, including the NHL’s current scoring leader Nathan MacKinnon (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL) of the Colorado Avalanche.
Nearly half of Finland’s blueline is comprised of CHL graduates: Henri Jokiharju (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Olli Määttä (London Knights / OHL) & Juuso Välimäki (Tri-City Americans / WHL).
10 CHL graduates at the 4 Nations Face-Off have previously won a WHL, OHL, or QMJHL title, including Sam Reinhart (Kootenay ICE / WHL), Olli Määttä (London Knights / OHL) & Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL).
Six CHL alumni competing at the 4 Nations Face-Off have previously earned a CHL Award, including Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), Connor McDavid (Erie Otters / OHL), & Mitch Marner (London Knights / OHL), who are previous recipients of the David Branch Player of the Year Award as the CHL’s Most Outstanding Player.
A total of 14 CHL alumni representing their country at the 4 Nations Face-Off have previously helped their NHL club hoist a Stanley Cup, a list that includes Vegas Golden Knights defenceman Shea Theodore (Seattle Thunderbirds / WHL), St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (Owen Sound Attack / OHL), & Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL).
Among the 29 CHL alumni participating in the 4 Nations Face-Off, 23 CHL graduates have previously helped their country win a gold medal at an international event.
United States (3) (F) J.T. Miller (Plymouth Whalers / OHL), New York Rangers (F) Matthew Tkachuk (London Knights / OHL), Florida Panthers (F) Vincent Trocheck (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), New York Rangers
Jake O’Brien of the Brantford Bulldogs. Photo by OHL Images
HT
WT
DOB
POS
SH
OHL DRAFT
NHLCS
NAT
6’2”
170
June 16, 2007
C
R
8th 2023
8th NA
CAN
SEASON
LEAGUE
TEAM
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G
A
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2023-2024
OHL
Brantford Bulldogs
61
13
51
64
2024-2025
OHL
Brantford Bulldogs
52
26
46
72
As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, one name that has been generating significant buzz is Jake O’Brien. This young center from Brantford has been turning heads with his impressive performances and has firmly established himself as a top prospect. We’ll take a closer look at O’Brien’s journey, his strengths, and what makes him a standout player in this year’s draft class.
Early Years and Development
O’Brien’s journey to the NHL Draft began in his hometown of Brantford, Ontario. From a young age, it was clear that he had a natural talent for hockey. His dedication to the sport and relentless work ethic set him apart from his peers. As he progressed through the ranks, O’Brien’s skills continued to develop, and he quickly became a key player for the Bulldogs.
Scouting Report
Hockey IQ and Playmaking: O’Brien’s ability to read the game and make smart, quick and decisive decisions with the puck is one of his standout qualities. He processes the game at an elite level, often creating opportunities out of seemingly thin air. His vision and passing abilities allow him to set up Grade “A” scoring chances for his teammates.
Puck Skills and Scoring Ability: He has a quick, deceptive release and a “shoot-to-score” mentality, and is a constant threat in the offensive zone. He handles the puck well in tight spaces and uses his quick hands to generate scoring chances. His ability to control the tempo of the game with calm decision-making and poise under pressure makes him a valuable asset. He is also a beast in puck protection.
Two-Way Play and Defensive Reliability: O’Brien is highly responsible defensively, staying on top of opponents during puck battles and showing the quickness to cover for teammates. He excels in puck possession, forechecking, and creating offensive opportunities from defensive plays. His defensive game is complemented by his ability to block shots, win puck battles, and make quick outlets to transition from defense to offense.
Work Ethic and Compete Level: One of O’Brien’s most admirable traits is his relentless work ethic. He consistently puts in second and third efforts on loose pucks and battles hard in all zones. His team-first mentality and willingness to play physical elevate the performance of his teammates. O’Brien’s leadership qualities make him a player that coaches can rely on in crucial moments. There will be a letter on his jersey one day in the NHL.
Areas for Improvement: There aren’t many but, there are areas where he can continue to develop. Improving his faceoff efficiency and skating mechanics will be critical to his transition to the NHL. Additionally, gaining physical strength will help him handle tougher matchups and be a more reliable option in important moments of the game.
Conclusion
Jake O’Brien’s combination of skill, hockey IQ, and work ethic make him a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. As he continues to develop and refine his game, there’s no doubt that he has the potential to become a standout player in the NHL. Keep an eye on this rising star as he takes the next step in his hockey journey.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Week 11 edition of the weekly 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 Huron-Perth Lakers and Ottawa Valley Titans are both climb this week’s list while the Vaughan Kings are also up to number nine in Week 11.
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.
TORONTO, ON — Today, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced the Week 15 edition of its CHL Top-10 Rankings for the 2024-25 season.
With a CHL-best 30 wins and just two regulation losses since October 20, the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) continue to rank No. 1 – having held the position for the last two months. Right behind them is the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League (WHL), who climbed up to second after extending their current point streak to 11 games (8-0-1-2). The Silvertips continue to be the WHL’s lone 30-win team. Lastly, rounding out the top three in third is the Moncton Wildcats of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), whose 33 wins during the 2024-25 campaign trail only the London Knights across the CHL.
Among the biggest changes to this week’s rankings was the rise of the Rimouski Océanic of the QMJHL and the Spokane Chiefs of the WHL. Riding an eight-game point streak (6-0-1-1), the 2025 Memorial Cup hosts Rimouski Océanic are up a couple of spots to fourth and back in the top five for the first time since the holiday break. Meanwhile, having won three games and scored 29 goals over their last four contests, the Spokane Chiefs rose three places to seventh in this week’s rankings.
The next rankings will be released the week of January 27, following the 16th week of regular season action in all three member leagues of the CHL.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Frontenacs’ Tuomas Uronen Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Vegas Golden Knights prospect Tuomas Uronen of the Kingston Frontenacs is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, registering two goals, four assists and six points in a pair of wins last week.
Uronen started the week strong with a goal and an assist on Friday, earning second-star honours as the Frontenacs defeated the Soo Greyhounds 3-1. He followed up on Sunday with another standout performance, contributing a goal and three assists to secure second-star recognition again in a 6-2 victory over the Erie Otters.
A 19-year-old forward from Kerava, Finland, Uronen has recorded 51 points (22-29–51) in 36 games this season. Originally selected by the Ottawa 67’s in the first round of the 2023 CHL Import Draft, the 6-foot, 194lb. right-winger has skated in 47 regular season games split between the 67’s and Frontenacs, tallying 24 goals, 33 assists and 57 points. The Vegas Golden Knights’ sixth round (192nd overall) pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Uronen recently won a silver medal with Team Finland at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.
Also considered for the award this week, Calgary Flames prospect Luke Misa of the Brampton Steelheads recorded five points (3-2–5), including a hat-trick, in two contests. Erie Otters teammates in Sam Alfano and Pano Fimis were also exceptional, each tallying three goals, three assists and six points in three games played.
Greyhounds’ Nolan Lalonde Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Nolan Lalonde of the Soo Greyhounds is the OHL Goaltender of the Week, earning two shutouts along with a 0.00 goals-against average and 1.000 save percentage.
Acquired by the Greyhounds at the OHL trade deadline, Lalonde continued to make a strong first impression with his new team. He stopped all 36 shots he faced on Thursday in a commanding 7-0 shutout win over the Peterborough Petes. He was back in net on Sunday, turning aside 24 shots to secure his second shutout of the weekend and fifth of his OHL career in a 3-0 victory over the Ottawa 67’s.
The 20-year-old overage netminder has appeared in 25 games this season between Sault Ste. Marie and Kingston, posting an 11-8-5-0 record, including three shutouts, a 3.07 goals-against average and an .889 save percentage. The 6-foot-2, 197lb. netminder was selected by the Erie Otters in the third round (49th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection. Over four OHL seasons split between Erie, Saginaw, Kingston, and Sault Ste. Marie, he has played in 156 regular season games, amassing a 67-61-10-6 record, five shutouts, a 3.58 goals-against average, and .875 save percentage. In the 2024 OHL Playoffs, Lalonde made 12 appearances with the Spirit, earning a 5-7-0-0 record, a 2.79 goals-against average, and an .893 save percentage. A Kingston, Ont. native, he hosted and won the 2024 Memorial Cup with the Saginaw Spirit. Lalonde signed a three-year entry-level contract as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets in October 2022.
Greyhounds’ Chase Reid Named OHL Rookie of the Week
Chase Reid is the OHL Rookie of the Week, recording six assists over three games played.
Reid kicked off a weekend road trip with three assists on Thursday, earning second star honours as the Greyhounds blanked the Peterborough Petes 7-0. He added another assist on Friday, though Sault Ste. Marie fell 3-1 to the Kingston Frontenacs. The 6-foot-2, 185lb. blueliner wrapped up the week with two assists on Sunday, contributing to the Greyhounds’ second shutout of the week in a 3-0 victory over the Ottawa 67’s.
A 17-year-old from Chesterfield, MI., Reid joined the Greyhounds in mid-December after starting the 2024-25 season with the Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL) where he recorded six goals and six assists in 18 games played. In his first 15 games with the Greyhounds, Reid has tallied one goal and 18 assists for 19 points. He was selected by Sault Ste. Marie in the seventh round (125th overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Detroit Victory Honda 15U AAA program. A late 2007-born blueliner, Reid isn’t NHL Draft eligible until 2026.
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Wolves’ Kocha Delic Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Sudbury Wolves overage forward Kocha Delic is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, registering five goals, three assists and eight points in three contests last week.
A 20-year-old from Mississauga, Ont., Delic has recorded 49 points (20-29–49) in 37 games this season, securing the third consecutive 20+ goal season of his career. Selected by Sudbury in the second round (28th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, the 5-foot-11, 198lb. centreman has amassed 211 points (89-122–211) over 205 career regular-season games across four seasons with the Wolves.
Also considered for the award this week, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Denver Barkey of the London Knights recorded seven points (3-4-7) in a pair of wins. Top 2025 NHL Draft-eligible prospect Porter Martone of the Brampton Steelheads was also a standout, tallying a goal, six assists and seven points in three games played.
Petes’ Easton Rye Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Easton Rye of the Peterborough Petes is the OHL Goaltender of the Week, going 2-0-0-1 with a 2.91 goals-against average and .920 save percentage in three outings.
The 18-year-old hometown product has appeared in 16 games for the Petes this season, posting a 7-7-1-1 record with a 3.23 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Over two OHL seasons, Rye has played in 25 games, compiling an 8-11-1-1 record with a 4.03 goals-against average and an .891 save percentage. The 6-foot, 196lb. netminder was selected by Peterborough in the fifth round (89th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection and spent the majority of 2023-24 with the PJCHL’s Lakefield Chiefs.
Also considered for the award this week, Jacob Oster of the Oshawa Generals was excellent, going 2-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and .915 save percentage.
Guelph Storm forward Lev Katzin is the OHL Rookie of the Week for the second time this season, recording one goal, five assists and six points over three games played.
A 17-year-old forward from Thornhill, Ont., Katzin joined the Storm in late November after spending two seasons with the USHL’s Green Bay Gamblers, where he recorded 39 points (12-27–39) in 66 games. In his first 16 games with the Storm, Katzin has tallied seven goals and 17 assists for 24 points, leading all OHL rookies with 1.5 points-per-game. He was part of the gold medal-winning Team Canada White at the 2023 U17 World Hockey Challenge in Prince Edward Island. During his OHL draft year, Katzin excelled with the GTHL’s Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program and was selected by the Storm in the fifth round (94th overall).
Also considered for the award this week, Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds contributed five assists in three contests, while Katzin’s Storm teammate Daniil Skvortsov tallied a goal and three helpers from the back end.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 5, 2025.
Spitfires’ Liam Greentree Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Los Angeles Kings prospect Liam Greentree of the Windsor Spitfires is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week for the second time this season, registering five goals, seven assists and 12 points over four victories.
Greentree captained the League-leading Spitfires to a four-win week, starting with a goal and three assists in a 6-4 victory over the Flint Firebirds on New Year’s Eve, earning first star honours. On Thursday, he recorded a career-high five-point game with a goal and four assists to claim second star honours in a 9-5 win against the Guelph Storm. Greentree continued his strong play on Saturday, earning first star honours with two goals in a 7-5 triumph over the Erie Otters. He capped off the week on Sunday by netting the overtime winner in a 4-3 victory over the Niagara IceDogs, earning first star honours once again and sealing a perfect week for the Spitfires.
A recently turned 19-year-old left-winger from Oshawa, Ont., Greentree leads all OHL players in points this season with 68 (29-39–68) in 38 games. Drafted 26th overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2024 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-3, 216lb. forward has tallied 203 points (90-113-203) in 163 regular season games for Windsor. He was selected by the Spitfires in the second round (34th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.
Also considered for the award this week, Spitfires teammate and Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas posted five goals and five assists in the four wins. Philadelphia Flyers prospect Denver Barkey of the London Knights was also a standout, recording 11 points (3-8-11) in three contests.
Rangers’ Jackson Parsons Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Jackson Parsons of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the fourth time this season, going 3-0-0-0, along with a 1.30 goals-against average, and a .948 save percentage.
A 20-year-old from Embrun, Ont., Parsons is 23-6-1-0 on the season, leading all OHL netminders with a 2.03 goals-against average and ranking second in save percentage at .928, along with four shutouts over 30 games played. The former third-round pick (53rd overall) by Kitchener in 2020 is now in his fourth OHL season, boasting a career record of 60-38-5-0 with a 2.95 goals-against average, .903 save percentage, and eight shutouts over 108 regular season games. Parsons is committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at Clarkson University next season.
Also considered for the award this week, Zachary Jovanovski of the Guelph Storm was excellent, going 1-1 including a shutout with a 1.97 goals-against average and .938 save percentage, while Trenten Bennett of the Owen Sound Attack was also a standout in the crease, going 1-2 including a shutout, with a 1.68 goals-against average and .944 save percentage.
2024-25 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season: Dec. 30 – Jan. 5: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Dec. 28 – Dec. 29: Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts) Dec. 16 – Dec. 22: Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds) Dec. 9 – Dec. 15: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs) Dec. 2 – Dec. 8: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Nov. 25 – Dec. 1: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights) Nov. 18 – Nov. 24: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Nov. 11 – Nov. 17: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) Nov. 4 – Nov. 10: Andrew Oke (Saginaw Spirit) Oct. 28 – Nov. 3: Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) Oct. 21 – Oct. 27: Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds) Oct. 14 – Oct. 20: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires) Oct. 7 – Oct. 13: Finn Marshall (Sudbury Wolves) Sept. 30 – Oct. 6: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires) Sept. 25 – Sept. 29: Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads)
Spitfires’ Ethan Belchetz Named OHL Rookie of the Week
Ethan Belchetz of the Windsor Spitfires is the OHL Rookie of the Week for the second time this season, recording three goals, four assists, and seven points in four victories.
Belchetz kicked off the week with a pair of assists on Thursday as the Spitfires secured a 9-5 home victory over the Guelph Storm. He remained productive on Saturday, picking up an assist before scoring the third period game winner to earn third star recognition in a 7-5 win against the Erie Otters. The 6-foot-5, 226lb. forward from Oakville, Ont. capped off the week with another goal on Sunday, helping the Western Conference-leading Spitfires edge the Niagara IceDogs 4-3 in overtime. Windsor now boasts a 29-7-2-1 record this season.
Selected first overall by Windsor in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Oakville Rangers U16 AAA program, the 2024 OHL Cup champion and MVP is excelling in his rookie campaign. He ranks second among all OHL rookies with 26 points (12-14–26) over 30 games. Belchetz won gold representing Canada White at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in November, recording five points (4-1–5) in as many games.
Also considered for the award this week, Brooks Rogowski of the Oshawa Generals scored twice and added two assists over four games played. Guelph Storm netminder Zachary Jovanovski was also a standout, playing to a 1-1 record including a shutout, along with a 1.97 goals-against average and .938 save percentage.
OHL Writers 