67’s alumni update: New homes for many
Movement has been a theme for many alumni of the Ottawa 67’s during the course of the offseason, with Graeme Clarke, Kevin Bahl, and Samuel Mayer being covered in a previous edition of the alumni tracker, but if you haven’t been paying attention, you’ll surely have missed who has gone where.
Never fear, we’ve got you covered with this guide to which former Barber Poles will be suiting up where in 2024-25.
Konecny flying with Philidelphia
In his eight years with the Philidelphia Flyers, Travis Konecny has endeared himself to the fans through his relentless tenacity, and offensive burst. On Thursday afternoon, he was rewarded for his efforts, signing a long-term contract extension that will keep him in orange and white for another eight seasons.
Prior to signing his new $70 million deal, Konecny has been a real asset to the Flyers, scoring 174 goals and 400 points in 564 games for his career. The first-round pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft has also been an effective playoff performer when the Flyers have reached the dance.
The native of London, Ontario is the only recipient of the Jack Ferguson Award in 67’s franchise history, being selected first overall in the OHL Priority Selection in 2013.
Maillet’s mail now goes to Atlantic Canada
Since his acquisition at the trade deadline, Jacob Maillet cemented himself as one of the most reliable players for the 67’s in 2024. Scoring five goals, and assisting on a further 21 in his 32 games with the Barber Poles, Maillet’s short stint with the 67’s was effective, especially in the postseason.
After graduating from the program, Maillet has inked a commitment with the St. Francis Xavier X-Men, joining a slew of other alumni playing U SPORTS hockey.
Maillet’s junior career came to a close in the spring, splitting time between the Guelph Storm, Windsor Spitfires, and the 67’s, totalling 172 points in 256 games.
Former linemates head to Europe
In the 2020-21 season, Austen Keating and Mitch Hoelscher helped form a strong line – alongside Jack Beck, who recently signed with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins – and now, both are taking their talents across the pond to Europe.
Following his collegiate career, Keating leaves behind a legacy of greatness at UNB in pursuit of his professional dreams, signing a deal with ERC Ingolstadt in the German first tier. His first taste of pro hockey came last season after capturing a U SPORTS title, playing a game in the AHL with the Chicago Wolves, and an ECHL game with the Norfolk Admirals, where he registered a pair of points.
Mitch Hoelscher, on the other hand, heads for Europe after testing the North American waters for a handful of years, signing with HC Slovan Bratislava in the Slovak Extraliga. Last season, he scored an impressive 47 points in 52 games with the ECHL’s Orlando Solar Bears.
Toffoli swimming to Bay Area
For years, Tyler Toffoli has been on trade boards at the deadline, as teams look to bring in much-needed scoring help on a budget, but finally, it was his turn to hit the open market. Another 30+ goal season set him up for a big deal, which he received from the San Jose Sharks, returning to California.
67’s fans will have their attention turned toward the relationship between Toffoli and fellow Barber Poles’ alumni Logan Couture, who currently captains the Sharks. Perhaps their magic from their one season together in Ottawa could be rekindled, but only time will tell.
Toffoli is heading into his 13th NHL season, and at the age of 32, his deal with the Sharks will keep him in teal until 2028.
Monahan tomato ripe for Blue Jackets
Also departing the Winnipeg Jets is Sean Monahan, who found his landing spot in Columbus with the Blue Jackets. In search of veteran offensive help, the 67’s alum made sense, with the 29-year-old coming off a 69-point season, his most productive season since 2018-19, and his second-highest career point total.
The former 67’s captain is heading into his 12th professional season, with 538 points under his belt. The Jackets will be his fourth club, as they seek stability for their young, exciting talent.
Monahan’s contract in Columbus is worth an AAV of $5.5 million over five years.