67’s alumni: Hoefenmayer at the Spengler & more
The holiday season is normally a quiet time around hockey, but for some Ottawa 67’s alumni, big things were happening. While you celebrated with your family, you may have missed things, but fear not, we’ve got you covered.
Hoefenmayer goes to the Spengler Cup
67’s fans remember Noel Hoefenmayer as a prolific point-producing defenceman, and during his time in the American Hockey League, he’s shown flashes of that. After being traded to the Montreal Canadiens, the North York native was selected to represent Canada at the Spengler Cup – one of the most unique tournaments in the sport.
Though Canada was unable to capture their second straight title, they put together a good tournament. They outscored their opposition 12-5 in the group stage, and won both games before falling to the Straubing Tigers in the semi-final.
Hoefenmayer chipped in with a solid tournament, as well, picking up a pair of points including a goal in three games.
Felhaber makes NHL debut
It was a long time in the making for Tye Felhaber, but in his sixth season of professional hockey, the Pembroke native made his NHL debut on December 16th. His career is a story of perseverance after going undrafted in the NHL. He has forced his way at every turn, despite being a superstar at the OHL level.
In his final season with the Barber Poles in 2018-19, Felhaber scored 59 goals, the second-highest mark in the OHL. In the playoffs, he was even more electric, putting up 28 points in 18 games, including scoring both of Ottawa’s goals in a 2-1 overtime win over the Oshawa Generals in Game 4 to claim the Bobby Orr Trophy as Eastern Conference champions.
In the pro ranks, things haven’t come as easily, but Felhaber has been a key contributor on some good teams, including the Milwaukee Admirals who have reached the Calder Cup Final each of the past two seasons.
Though his NHL debut didn’t result in any points, it truly is a testament to the fight exhibited by Felhaber over the past decade.
Keating extends in Germany
After becoming one of the best U SPORTS hockey players of all time, Austen Keating has made his mark in the DEL – Germany’s top division – with ERC Ingolstadt.
With 28 points in 30 games, the native of Guelph, Ontario has been a big part of his team, which currently sits atop the standings. It’s been a match made in heaven between club and player, and recently, Keating inked a two-year extension to remain in Germany through 2026-27.
“My first months here have been great,” Keating said in an ERC Ingolstadt Instagram post, which has been translated from German. “Ingolstadt has become my new home, and I really enjoy playing here. From the team, to the environment and the support of the fans, we have all the requirements to continue to be successful.”
