Soo Greyhounds - Feed https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/tag/roster/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:02:57 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 Vermirovsky, Kovar selected in 2026 CHL Import Draft https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/2026-chl-import-draft Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:56:53 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/2026-chl-import-draft ROUND 1 With their 1st Pick (35th Overall) of the 2026 CHL Import Draft, the Soo Greyhounds welcomed DAVID VERMIROVSKY to the organization. The 17-year old right catching netminder played last season (2025-26) for HC Dynamo Pardubice of the Czechia U20 league. In 27 regular season games he compiled a 13-14 record to go along with a 3.23 GAA and .904 SV%. He later went 5-7 in the post-season with a 2.72 GAA and .913 SV%.

Internationally, David represented Czechia at the U18 level.

Born in Cordoba, Spain, the 6.05, 181 lbs Vermirovsky has spent most of his life in Czechia.

He was the #3 ranked European goaltender on the NHL Central Scoutings Mid-Term Rankings for last weekend's NHL draft. ROUND 2 With their 2nd Round Selection (95th overall), the Greyhounds selected forward MELICHAR KOVAR out of the HC Dynamo Pardubice program. The 17-year old Pardubice, CZE native appeared in 37 regular season games with the U17 club where he recorded 29 goals and 32 assists, good for a team-leading 61 points. He averaged a point-per-game in the playoffs with 6 goals and 4 assists in 10 games played. He also appeared in 7 games with the Dynamo U20 club - as a teammate with the Hounds 1st Round Selection David Vermirovsky. The 6.04, 205 lb winger was a member of Team Czechia at the 2025 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. The Greyhounds will now 'Pass' on their 3rd Round Selection.

Oshawa to select first overall; Halifax moves into No. 2 spot following trade with Baie-Comeau

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced today the finalized draft order for the 2026 CHL Import Draft, which will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, June 30, at 11 a.m. ET. The Oshawa Generals of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) will select first overall, followed by the Halifax Mooseheads of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), who acquired the second overall selection in a trade with the Baie-Comeau Drakkar. The Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League (WHL) will select third overall, while the Guelph Storm of the OHL, hosts of the 2027 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, will round out the top four after acquiring the fourth overall selection in a trade with the Erie Otters. Halifax’s move into the No. 2 spot is one of several recent changes reflected in the finalized order, which is listed in full below. For the second straight year, the CHL Import Draft will consist of three rounds as the CHL enters its second season with three import player spots available on each club’s roster. As a reminder, new rules are in effect for this year’s draft: 20-year-old import players are eligible to be selected in any round, while 16-year-old import players may only be selected in the first round. CHL clubs may carry a maximum of one 16-year-old import player per season. That player cannot be traded or replaced by another import player during his 16-year-old season. If a 16-year-old import player is released to another level of hockey during the regular season or deleted from a club’s roster, that club will be limited to two import players for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs. The Mooseheads have selected within the top three on three previous occasions in CHL Import Draft history, but 2026 marks the first time Halifax will make the second overall selection. At last year’s CHL Import Draft, the Mooseheads selected Oleg Kulebiakin ninth overall before adding Finnish forward Jasu Mensonen in the second round at No. 70. Kulebiakin went on to lead Halifax with 73 points in 64 games during the 2025-26 season before being selected 52nd overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning at the 2026 NHL Draft, while Mensonen added 33 points in 64 contests. Halifax has built one of the CHL Import Draft’s strongest track records for developing high-end international talent, with alumni including Jakub Voracek, 2017 first-overall NHL Draft pick Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, Ladislav Nagy, Filip Zadina and 2026 Stanley Cup champion Nikolaj Ehlers. The CHL Import Draft has long served as an important pathway for international players to develop in the WHL, OHL and QMJHL before later hearing their names called at the NHL Draft. At the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, 22 players previously selected through the CHL Import Draft were chosen by NHL clubs, including first-round selections Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit, OHL / Anaheim Ducks), Adam Novotný (Peterborough Petes, OHL / Vancouver Canucks) and Maksim Sokolovskii (London Knights, OHL / Philadelphia Flyers). Other CHL Import Draft alumni selected at the 2026 NHL Draft included Matias Vanhanen (Everett Silvertips, WHL / New Jersey Devils), Egor Shilov (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL / Colorado Avalanche), Oleg Kulebiakin (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL / Tampa Bay Lightning), Jakub Vanecek (Tri-City Americans, WHL / Dallas Stars), Danai Shaiikov (Gatineau Olympiques, QMJHL / New York Rangers), Adam Nemec (Sudbury Wolves, OHL / Ottawa Senators), Michal Orsulak (Prince Albert Raiders, WHL / Detroit Red Wings), Yaroslav Bryzgalov (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL / Vancouver Canucks), Marek Sklenicka (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL / Philadelphia Flyers), Olivers Murnieks (Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL / Buffalo Sabres), Tobias Tvrznik (Wenatchee Wild, WHL / Colorado Avalanche), Filip Ruzicka (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL / Minnesota Wild), Vladimir Dravecky (Guelph Storm, OHL / New York Islanders), Lars Steiner (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL / St. Louis Blues), Stepan Shurygin (Saginaw Spirit, OHL / Tampa Bay Lightning), Jasper Kuhta (Ottawa 67’s, OHL / Dallas Stars), Alexander Karmanov (North Bay Battalion, OHL / San Jose Sharks), Ondrej Ruml (Ottawa 67’s, OHL / Colorado Avalanche), and Max Vilen (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL / Tampa Bay Lightning). Since the first CHL Import Draft was held in 1992, more than 2,310 players from outside Canada and the United States have been selected through the annual event. The draft has helped bring many future NHL standouts to the CHL, including Leon Draisaitl (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Zdeno Chara (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Marian Hossa (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Mikael Backlund (Kelowna Rockets / WHL), Oliver Bjorkstrand (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Gabriel Landeskog (Kitchener Rangers / OHL), Nikita Zadorov (London Knights / OHL), Rasmus Andersson (Barrie Colts / OHL), Olli Määttä (London Knights / OHL), Alexander Radulov (Québec Remparts / QMJHL), David Krejci (Gatineau Olympiques / QMJHL), and Nico Hischier (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL). That list also includes two-time Hart Trophy winner Nikita Kucherov (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies / QMJHL), who captured the award for the second time in his career during the 2025-26 season, as well as recent 2026 Stanley Cup champions Andrei Svechnikov (Barrie Colts / OHL) and Nikolaj Ehlers (Halifax Mooseheads / QMJHL), who helped the Carolina Hurricanes capture their second championship in franchise history.  Fans and media can follow the 2026 CHL Import Draft and view full results beginning tomorrow at 11 a.m. ET at chl.ca/draft.   Finalized Order of Selections for the 2026 CHL Import Draft
First Round Second Round Third Round
No. Team No. Team No. Team
1 Oshawa Generals 62 Brantford Bulldogs (from Oshawa) 123 Oshawa Generals
2 Halifax Mooseheads (from Baie-Comeau) 63 Baie-Comeau Drakkar 124 Baie-Comeau Drakkar
3 Lethbridge Hurricanes 64 Lethbridge Hurricanes 125 Lethbridge Hurricanes
4 Guelph Storm (From Erie) 65 Erie Otters 126 Erie Otters
5 Rimouski Océanic 66 Saint John Sea Dogs (from Chicoutimi via Rimouski) 127 Rimouski Océanic
6 Everett Silvertips (from Swift Current) 67 Swift Current Broncos 128 Swift Current Broncos
7 Brampton Steelheads 68 Brampton Steelheads 129 Brampton Steelheads
8 Gatineau Olympiques 69 Drummondville Voltigeurs (from Gatineau) 130 Gatineau Olympiques
9 Vancouver Giants 70 Vancouver Giants 131 Vancouver Giants
10 Sarnia Sting 71 Sarnia Sting 132 Sarnia Sting
11 Victoriaville Tigres 72 Moncton Wildcats (from Victoriaville) 133 Victoriaville Tigres
12 Tri-City Americans (from Wenatchee) 73 Medicine Hat Tigers (from Everett via Wenatchee) 134 Wenatchee Wild
13 Brantford Bulldogs (From Sudbury) 74 Kitchener Rangers (from Sudbury) 135 Sudbury Wolves
14 Saint John Sea Dogs 75 Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (from Saint John) 136 Saint John Sea Dogs
15 Moose Jaw Warriors 76 Moose Jaw Warriors 137 Moose Jaw Warriors
16 Saginaw Spirit 77 Saginaw Spirit 138 North Bay Battalion (from Saginaw)
17 Val-d'Or Foreurs 78 Chicoutimi Saguenéens (from Saint John via Val-d'Or) 139 Val-d'Or Foreurs
18 Regina Pats (from Red Deer) 79 Red Deer Rebels 140 Red Deer Rebels
19 Erie Otters (from Guelph) 80 Guelph Storm 141 Guelph Storm
20 Baie-Comeau Drakkar (from Halifax) 81 Halifax Mooseheads 142 Halifax Mooseheads
21 Swift Current Broncos (from Tri-City) 82 Calgary Hitmen (from Tri-City) 143 Tri-City Americans
22 Owen Sound Attack 83 Owen Sound Attack 144 Owen Sound Attack
23 Chicoutimi Saguenéens (from Cape Breton) 84 Shawinigan Cataractes (from Cape Breton) 145 Cape Breton Eagles
24 Red Deer Rebels (from Regina Pats) 85 Regina Pats 146 Regina Pats
25 Niagara IceDogs 86 Niagara IceDogs 147 Niagara IceDogs
26 Sherbrooke Phoenix 87 Sherbrooke Phoenix 148 Sherbrooke Phoenix
27 Victoria Royals 88 Penticton Vees (from Victoria) 149 Victoria Royals
28 Flint Firebirds (from Kingston) 89 Flint Firebirds (from Kingston) 150 Kingston Frontenacs
29 Québec Remparts 90 Québec Remparts 151 Québec Remparts
30 Portland Winterhawks 91 Swift Current Broncos (from Portland) 152 Portland Winterhawks
31 Saginaw Spirit (from North Bay) 92 North Bay Battalion 153 North Bay Battalion
32 Charlottetown Islanders 93 Charlottetown Islanders 154 Charlottetown Islanders
33 Kelowna Rockets (from Seattle) 94 Seattle Thunderbirds 155 Seattle Thunderbirds
34 Soo Greyhounds 95 Soo Greyhounds 156 Soo Greyhounds
35 Shawinigan Cataractes 96 Shawinigan Cataractes 157 Cape Breton Eagles (from Shawinigan)
36 Spokane Chiefs 97 Spokane Chiefs 158 Spokane Chiefs
37 Peterborough Petes 98 Peterborough Petes 159 Peterborough Petes
38 Newfoundland Regiment 99 Newfoundland Regiment 160 Newfoundland Regiment
39 Kamloops Blazers 100 Kamloops Blazers 161 Kamloops Blazers
40 London Knights 101 London Knights 162 London Knights
41 Gatineau Olympiques (from Drummondville) 102 Newfoundland Regiment (from Drummondville) 163 Drummondville Voltigeurs
42 Saskatoon Blades 103 Saskatoon Blades 164 Saskatoon Blades
43 Flint Firebirds 104 Kingston Frontenacs (from Flint) 165 Kingston Frontenacs (from Flint)
44 Saint John Sea Dogs (from Blainville-Boisbriand) 105 Blainville-Boisbriand Armada 166 Blainville-Boisbriand Armada
45 Brandon Wheat Kings 106 Brandon Wheat Kings 167 Brandon Wheat Kings
46 Windsor Spitfires 107 Windsor Spitfires 168 Windsor Spitfires
47 Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 108 Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 169 Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
48 Calgary Hitmen 109 Everett Silvertips (from Calgary) 170 Calgary Hitmen
49 Barrie Colts 110 Barrie Colts 171 Barrie Colts
50 Rimouski Océanic (from Chicoutimi) 111 Chicoutimi Saguenéens 172 Chicoutimi Saguenéens
51 Edmonton Oil Kings (from Kelowna) 112 Seattle Thunderbirds (from Kelowna) 173 Kelowna Rockets
52 Ottawa 67's 113 Ottawa 67's 174 Ottawa 67's
53 Moncton Wildcats 114 Moncton Wildcats 175 Moncton Wildcats
54 Saskatoon Blades (from Prince George) 115 Prince George Cougars 176 Prince George Cougars
55 Kitchener Rangers 116 Kitchener Rangers 177 Sudbury Wolves (from Kitchener)
56 Edmonton Oil Kings 117 Edmonton Oil Kings 178 Kelowna Rockets (from Edmonton)
57 Brantford Bulldogs 118 Sudbury Wolves (from Brantford) 179 Oshawa Generals (from Brantford)
58 Victoria Royals (from Penticton) 119 Penticton Vees 180 Penticton Vees
59 Medicine Hat Tigers 120 Medicine Hat Tigers 181 Medicine Hat Tigers
60 Prince Albert Raiders 121 Prince Albert Raiders 182 Prince Albert Raiders
61 Everett Silvertips 122 Everett Silvertips 183 Everett Silvertips
 ]]> 14 Current and Former Hounds Head to 2026 NHL Development Camps https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/14-current-and-former-hounds-head-to-2026-nhl-development-camps Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:53:33 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/14-current-and-former-hounds-head-to-2026-nhl-development-camps OHL Players Attending NHL Development Camps: * free agent invite ^- Played in OHL prior to 2025-26 season #- committed to OHL for 2026-27 season   Anaheim Ducks (5): Eric Frossard (Guelph Storm), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit), Ethan Procyszyn (North Bay Battalion), Noah Read (Niagara IceDogs), Darels Uljanskis (Flint Firebirds) Boston Bruins (1): Jacob Vandeven (London Knights) Buffalo Sabres (2): David Bedkowski (Ottawa 67's), Cohen Bidgood (London Knights)* Calgary Flames (4): Egor Barabanov (Saginaw Spirit), Ryder Boulton (Brantford Bulldogs)*, Simon Katolicky (Sarnia Sting)#, Aidan Lane (Brampton Steelheads)^ Carolina Hurricanes (3): Filip Ekberg (Ottawa 67's), Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67's), Zachary Jovanovski (Guelph Storm) Chicago Blackhawks (5): Ty Henry (Erie Otters), Parker Holmes (Sarnia Sting), Ryan Roobroeck (Guelph Storm), AJ Spellacy (Windsor Spitfires), Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs) Colorado Avalanche (3): Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)*, Linus Funck (London Knights), Christian Humphreys (Kitchener Rangers) Columbus Blue Jackets (6): Kocha Delic (Sudbury Wolves)^*, Alessandro Di Iorio (Sarnia Sting), Owen Griffin (Guelph Storm), Vladimir Provorov (Sudbury Wolves)*, Nic Sima (Ottawa 67's)*, Rowan Topp (Guelph Storm)* Dallas Stars (8): Ryan Brown (London Knights), Matteo Drobac (Brantford Bulldogs)*^, Cole Emerton (Sarnia Sting), Emil Hemming (Barrie Colts), Jasper Kuhta (Ottawa 67's), Angus MacDonell (Brampton Steelheads)^, Charlie Paquette (Brantford Bulldogs), Connor Punnett (Oshawa Generals)^ Detroit Red Wings (4): Michael Dec (Erie Otters)*, Beckham Edwards (Sarnia Sting), Adam Levac (Peterborough Petes), Michal Svrcek (Windsor Spitfires)# Edmonton Oilers (9): Beau Akey (Barrie Colts)^, Weston Cameron (Kitchener Rangers)*, Connor Clattenburg (Flint Firebirds)^, Nathan Day (Flint Firebirds)^, Caden Harvey (Windsor Spitfires), William Nicholl (London Knights), Andrew Robinson (Windsor Spitfires), Brady Stonehouse (Peterborough Petes)^, Dalyn Wakely (Barrie Colts)^ Florida Panthers (5): Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion), Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)*, Shamar Moses (North Bay Battalion), Emil Pieniniemi (Kingston Frontenacs)^, Cole Zurawski (Owen Sound Attack) Los Angeles Kings (11): Lucas Ambrosio (Erie Otters), Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights), Nolan Buttar (Kingston Frontenacs)*, Tyler Challenger (Sarnia Sting)*, Jan Chovan (Sudbury Wolves), Kristian Epperson (Saginaw Spirit)^, Carter George (Soo Greyhounds), Alex Kostov (Flint Firebirds), Jimmy Lombardi (Flint Firebirds), Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67's), Jared Woolley (Kitchener Rangers) Minnesota Wild (2): Lirim Amidovski (North Bay Battalion), Adam Benak (Brantford Bulldogs) Montreal Canadiens (4): Wesley Royston (Owen Sound Attack), Andrew MacNiel (Kitchener Rangers), Owen Protz (Brantford Bulldogs), Braidy Wassilyn (London Knights)* Nashville Predators (6): Dylan Edwards (Kitchener Rangers)*, Jack Ivankovic (Brampton Steelheads)^, Jack Lisson (North Bay Battalion)*, Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds), Charlie Puglisi (Kitchener Rangers)#, Cameron Reid (Kitchener Rangers) New Jersey Devils (2): Trenten Bennett (Flint Firebirds), Quinn McKenzie (Soo Greyhounds) New York Islanders (7): Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts), Gabriel Frasca (Brantford Bulldogs)*, Layne Gallacher (Niagara IceDogs)*, Isaiah George (London Knights)^, Sam Hillebrandt (Barrie Colts)*^, Jesse Nurmi (London Knights)^, Luca Romano (Kitchener Rangers) New York Rangers (10): Darian Anderson (Flint Firebirds), Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds), Jacob Battaglia (Flint Firebirds), Spencer Bowes (Ottawa 67's), Andre Mondoux (Kingston Frontenacs), Artem Gonchar (Sudbury Wolves), Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires), Evan Passmore (Barrie Colts), Malcolm Spence (Erie Otters)^, Carey Terrance (Erie Otters)^ Ottawa Senators (10): Matthew Andonovski (Kitchener Rangers), Jaxon Cover (London Knights), Gabriel Eliasson (Barrie Colts), Luke Ellinas (Kitchener Rangers), Landen Hookey (Owen Sound Attack)^, Jean-Cristoph Lemieux (Sudbury Wolves)*, Blake Montgomery (London Knights)^, Harris Pangretitsch (Soo Greyhounds), Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)^, Mason Zebeski (Barrie Colts)* Philadelphia Flyers (8): Denver Barkey (London Knights)^, Oliver Bonk (London Knights)^, Jackson Edward (London Knights)^, Jett Luchanko (Brantford Bulldogs), Porter Martone (Brampton Steelheads)^, Jack Nesbitt (Windsor Spitfires), Noah Powell (Oshawa Generals)^, Maksim Sokolovskii (London Knights) Pittsburgh Penguins (11): Dryden Allen (Flint Firebirds)*, Quinn Beauchesne (Guelph Storm), Jordan Charron (Soo Greyhounds), Callum Croskery (Soo Greyhounds)*, Travis Hayes (Soo Greyhounds), Matthew Humphries (Oshawa Generals)*, Jeremy Martin (Soo Greyhounds)*, Maleek McGowan (Kingston Frontenacs), Pierce Mbuyi (Owen Sound Attack), Alex McLean (Kingston Frontenacs)*, Parker von Richter (Barrie Colts) San Jose Sharks (6): Brendan Hoffmann (Erie Otters)^, Alexander Karmanov (North Bay Battalion), Christian Kirsch (Kitchener Rangers), Brady Knowling (Saginaw Spirit)#, Landon Marleau (Kingston Frontenacs), Haoxi Wang (Niagara IceDogs) Seattle Kraken (7): Maksim Corovic (Brantford Bulldogs)*, Jakub Fibigr (Windsor Spitfires), Finn Kearns (Sudbury Wolves), Jake O'Brien (Brantford Bulldogs), Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds), Rylan Singh (Guelph Storm), Nathan Villeneuve (Windsor Spitfires) St. Louis Blues (3): Colin Fitzgerald (Soo Greyhounds, Lukas Fischer (Soo Greyhounds), Carter Stevens (Guelph Storm) Tampa Bay Lightning (7): Elliot Arnett (Owen Sound Attack)*, Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)*, Ethan Czata (Guelph Storm), Marco Mignosa (Soo Greyhounds), Sam O'Reilly (Kitchener Rangers), Jack Pridham (Kitchener Rangers), Grant Spada (Guelph Storm) Toronto Maple Leafs (10): Sam Alfano (Erie Otters)*^, Alexander Bilecki (Kitchener Rangers), Rylan Fellinger (Flint Firebirds), Sebastian Gatto (London Knights)*, Tyler Hopkins (Guelph Storm), Sam McCue (Ottawa 67's), Harry Nansi (Owen Sound Attack), Brody Pepoy (Saginaw Spirit), Zack Sandhu (Brantford Bulldogs)*, Parker Vaughan (North Bay Battalion)* Utah Mammoth (4): Owen Allard (Soo Greyhounds)^, Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts), Ethan Belchetz (Windsor Spitfires), Noel Nordh (Soo Greyhounds)^ Vancouver Canucks (9): Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs), Adam Novotny (Peterborough Petes), Brooks Rogowski (Oshawa Generals), Kieren Dervin (Kingston Frontenacs), Riley Patterson (Niagara IceDogs), Lucain Bernat (Owen Sound Attack)#, Gabriel Chiarot (Kitchener Rangers), Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights), Anthony Romani (Barrie Colts)^ Vegas Golden Knights (9): Wyatt Kennedy (Windsor Spitfires)*, Matthew Minchak (Kingston Frontenacs), Bronson Ride (North Bay Battalion), Samuel Mayer (Peterborough Petes)^, Trent Swick (Kitchener Rangers)^, Tuomas Uronen (Kingston Frontenacs)^, Conor Walton (Windsor Spitfires)*, Vann Williamson (Kingston Frontenacs)*, Ben Wilmott (Barrie Colts) Washington Capitals (3): Cam Allen (London Knights)^, Zack Bleick (Flint Firebirds)*, Arvin Jaswal (Barrie Colts)* Winnipeg Jets (7): Colby Barlow (Oshawa Generals)^, Jacob Cloutier (Saginaw Spirit), Edison Engle (Brantford Bulldogs), Kevin He (Flint Firebirds), Jacob Julien (London Knights)^, Oliver Peer (Flint Firebirds)*^, Kieron Walton (Peterborough Petes)]]> From Cranberry Township to the Garden State; McKenzie goes to New Jersey – 2026 NHL Draft https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/from-cranberry-township-to-the-garden-state-mckenzie-goes-to-new-jersey-2026-nhl-draft Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:04:08 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/from-cranberry-township-to-the-garden-state-mckenzie-goes-to-new-jersey-2026-nhl-draft With the 30th Pick of the 7th Round (222nd overall) of the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, the New Jersey Devils made QUINN MCKENZIE the 4th member of the Program to be selected at this year’s event.

McKenzie was the Hounds 3rd-leading scorer this past regular season after initially joining the team as a free agent signing in September 2025.

The Cranberry Township, PA product went on to record recorded 21 goals and 30 assists (51 points) in 65 games played before adding 7 points (5G, 2A) in ten post-season contests.

He was a ‘W’ Rated Prospect in the NHL Central Scoutings ‘Players to Watch’ List.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS 2025-26 (21G, 30A, 51PTS in 65GP);  Recipeint of the team’s Dr. Billy Kelly Award for Most Gentlemanly Player … W Rated Prospect in NHL Central Scouting ‘Players to Watch List’ for 2026 NHL Draft …Recorded 2G game including OT GWG and 1st star Oct. 10 vs KIT … Scored 1st career goal on Oct. 2 @BAR … Recorded his 1st-career OHL point (assist) Sept. 19 vs SAG … Led team in pre-season scoring with 4G, 2A, 6PTS in 4GP … Free Agent signing by the Greyhounds in September 2025 … 2024-25;  Appeared in 58 regular season games for Shattuck St. Mary’s 18U Prep where he recorded 26G, 67A, 93PTS … 2023-24;  Played minor hockey for the Pittsburg Penguin Elite (13U to 16U)

]]> ‘Gateway to the West’ Welcomes Fitzgerald – 2026 NHL Draft https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/gateway-to-the-west-welcomes-fitzgerald-in-round-7-2026-nhl-draft Sat, 27 Jun 2026 20:14:57 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/gateway-to-the-west-welcomes-fitzgerald-in-round-7-2026-nhl-draft With the 11th Pick of Round 7 (203rd overall), the St. Louis Blues selected Soo Greyhounds forward COLIN FITZGERALD in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Fitzgerald recorded 15 goals and 18 assists (33 points) this past 2025-26 season, including 20 points (9G, 11A) in 39 regular season games after being acquired by the Hounds on November 27th.

The Otonabee, ON product was ranked #82 in the NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings for North American skaters.

He joins Chase Reid and Harris Pangretitsch as selections so far in this year’s event.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS 2025-26 (15G, 18A, 33PTS in 63GP);  One of 20 OHL Players invited to 2026 NHL Combine …One of 20 OHL Players invited to 2026 NHL Scouting Combine … Ranked 82nd for North American Skaters in NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings …Skated in his 100th career regular season game Feb. 13 @LDN … Recorded 1st goal as a Hound Dec. 10 vs KIT … Named to Western Conference Roster for Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game … Acquired by the Hounds on November 27 … 2024-25;  Capture bronze Medal (2A) with Team Canada at Hlinka Gretzky Cup … Won silver medal with Team Canada Red at 2024 U17 World Challenge … Recorded career-high 3PT night (1G, 2A) Oct. 11 @GUE … Scored his 1st-career OHL goal (part of 2G night) Oct. 3 vs NB … 2023-24;  Selected in 1st Round (3rd) overall by the Peterborough Petes … Appeared in 35 games for the Peterborough Petes U16 AAA registering 39G, 25A, 64PTS in regular season before adding 13G, 8A, 21PTS in 8 post-season contests

]]> Pangretitsch picked to Nation’s Capital – 2026 NHL Draft https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/pangretitsch-picked-to-nations-capital-2026-nhl-draft Sat, 27 Jun 2026 19:12:31 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/pangretitsch-picked-to-nations-capital-2026-nhl-draft With a selection in the 5th Round (151st overall), the NHL’s Ottawa Senators selected Greyhounds defenceman HARRIS PANGRETITSCH on Day Two of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Harris, a native of Toronto, ON was ranked #159 in the NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings for North American skaters - and becomes the second player from the Hounds selected in this year’s event.

The 6.04, 216 lb Pangretitsch recorded a 14 point (2G, 12A) rookie campaign with the Greyhounds that saw him later named recipient of the team’s Most Improved Player Award and Co-Winner of the Scholastic Player of the Year Award.

RELATED MEDIA: • Harris Pangretitsch | 2025-26 Highlights | 2026 NHL Draft (HSD Prospects) • Harris Pangretitsch First OHL Goal - Ontario Hockey League

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS 2025-26 (2G, 12A, 14PTS in 67GP);  Ranked 159th for North American Skaters in NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings …Recipient of the team’s Pino’s Award (Most Improved Player) and Co-Winner of the Hounds Jerry Bumbacco Trophy for Scholastic Player of the Year … Named OHL’s West Division Academic Player of the Month for January … Scored 1st-career goal Dec. 17 @ SAG …Registered 1st career point (assist) Oct. 2 @ BAR … 2024-25;  Appeared in 34 regular season games for Choate Rosemary Hall (USHS-Prep) recording 4G, 9A, 13PTS … 2023-24;  Selected in the 4th Round of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Malboros 16U AAA program … Appeared in 60 regular season games for Malboros recording 4G, 14A, 18PTS

]]> Chase Reid selected 7th overall by Seattle Kraken – 2026 NHL Draft https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/chase-reid-selected-7th-overall-by-seattle-kraken-2026-nhl-draft Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:15:09 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/chase-reid-selected-7th-overall-by-seattle-kraken-2026-nhl-draft Soo Greyhounds defenceman CHASE REID became the 20th player in franchise history to be selected in the 1st Round of the NHL Draft earlier tonight. He was selected 7th overall by the Seattle Kraken.

Leading into tonight’s events at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York - the 18-year old Reid was the top-ranked American prospect for the draft and was #2 overall for North American skaters in the NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings.

The Chesterfield, MI native completed his 2nd season with the Greyhounds in 2025-26 and averaged over a point-per-game for the 2nd straight year. This past season he recorded 18 goals and 30 assists (48 points) in 45 regular season games played before later adding 6 points (3G, 3A) in 10 post-season contests.  He was the the team’s highest scoring defenceman.

Well deserved accolades followed him at the end of the Hounds season with Chase being named to the 2nd CHL All-Star Team, Recipient of the CHL’s Top Prospect Award, named to the OHL First All-Star Team along with being named the Hounds Best Defenceman.

His rookie campaign (2024-25) saw him record 7 goals and 33 assists, good for 40 points in 39 regular season games played while finishing as the team’s highest scorer first-year player.

He becomes the 1st-ever Greyhound selected by Seattle since they entered the NHL in 2021.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: 2025-26 (18G, 30A, 48PTS in 45GP);  Named to 2nd CHL All-Star Team … Recipient of the CHL’s Top Prospect Award … One of 20 OHL Players invited to 2026 NHL Combine …Named to OHL First All-Star Team (Defence) …. One of 20 OHL Players invited to 2026 NHL Scouting Combine … Ranked 2nd for North American Skaters in NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings …Recipient of the team’s Mike Desjardins Memorial Trophy) for Best Defenceman … Returned Mar. 18 @SAG after missing 17 games due to injury … Voted 1st for Best Offensive Defenceman, 2nd for Best Skater, 3rd for Best Shot in Western Conference Coache’s Poll … Member of Team USA at 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship …Named to Western Conference Roster for Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game … Recorded 1st-career hat trick (3G, 1A, 9SOG, 1st star) Dec. 5 vs OSH … Scored 1G as part of Team CHL at 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge … Recorded 3PT night (1G, 2A) and team-leading 9 SOG Oct. 10 vs KIT … 2024-25 (7G, 33A, 40PTS in 39GP);  Named to 2024-25 1st OHL All-Rookie Team … Participated in USA Hockey Preliminary selection camp for 2025 World U18 Hockey Championship … Recipient of the team’s Rookie of the Year Award … Recorded first 2G game on Mar. 7 vs BAR … Named one of two defenceman on CCM CHL Team of the Month for January … Named OHL January Rookie of the Month after recording 1G, 18A in 12GP … Named OHL Rookie of the Week Jan. 20 after recording six assists over three games played … Recorded career-high 3PTS (3A) on Jan. 3 vs PBO … Scored his 1st-career goal Dec. 20 @ GUE … Recorded his 1st-career OHL point (assist) Dec. 15 vs NIA … Signed with the Hounds and made his OHL debut Dec. 11 vs SBY … Appeared in 18 games for the Bismark Bobcats (NAHL) recording 6G, GA …. 2023-24;  Appeared in 68GP for Victory Honda 16U AAA recording 14G, 48A, 62PTS … Also appeared in 10 games for the Waterloo Blackhawks (USHL) … 2022-23;  Selected in the 7th Round (125th overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection … Played in 63 games for Victory Honda (15U AAA) where he had 13G and 21A

RELATED MEDIA: • ‘Live in the moment’: Chase Reid ready for the NHL draft after long journey (CBC) • Chase Reid is working to prove his believers right (Sportsnet.ca) • Why Prospect Chase Reid is a Perfect Fit for the NY Rangers (Sports Illustrated) • Reid | Draft Media Availability (Canadian Hockey League) • Reid moved down to take step up on way to 2026 NHL Draft (NHL.com)

SOO GREYHOUNDS 1ST ROUND NHL/WHA DRAFT PICKS 2026 - Chase Reid (Seattle) 7th Overall 2025 - Brady Martin (Nashville) 5th Overall 2018 - Barrett Hayton (Arizona) 5th Overall 2018 - Rasmus Sandin (Toronto) 29th Overall 2017 - Morgan Frost (Philadelphia) 27th Overall 2015 - Zach Senyshyn (Boston) 15th Overall 2014 - Jared McCann (Vancouver) 24th Overall 2013 - Darnell Nurse (Edmonton) 7th Overall 2003 - Jeff Carter (Philadelphia) 11th Overall 2002 - Petr Taticek (Florida) 9th Overall 1997 - Joe Thornton (Boston) 1st Overall 1996 - Richard Jackman (Dallas) 5th Overall 1994 - Dan Cloutier (NY Rangers) 26th Overall 1985 - Derek King (NY Islanders) 13th Overall 1983 - Jeff Beukeboom (Edmonton) 19th Overall 1981 - Ron Francis (Hartford) 4th Overall 1981 - Steve Smith (Philadelphia) 16th Overall 1979 - Craig Hartsburg (Minnesota) 6th Overall 1978 - Dan Lucas (Philadelphia) 14th Overall 1974 - Jack Valiquette (Toronto) 13th Overall

]]> Reid named to 2nd CHLAll-Star Team for 2025-26 https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/reid-named-to-2nd-chlall-star-team-for-2025-26 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:16:04 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/reid-named-to-2nd-chlall-star-team-for-2025-26 The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) today announced its First, Second, and Third All-Star Teams for the 2025-26 season, along with its All-Rookie Team. Media members who regularly cover the CHL and the Member Leagues — the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) — participated in the voting process to determine this year’s CHL All-Star and All-Rookie teams. Ballots were cast based on regular-season performances, with voters selecting the top players from across the CHL’s three leagues to recognize outstanding individual achievements.

CHL First All-Star Team

Goaltender – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL): 29-9-2-1 record, 2.07 GAA, .923 SV% & 6 SO in 41 GP during the 2025-26 season; signed by Ottawa as an undrafted free agent last summer, Fetterolf quickly emerged as one of the CHL’s top goaltenders during a historic rookie campaign with the 67’s. The 18-year-old from Sewickley, Pa., led the CHL in both goals-against average and save percentage, while his six shutouts set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. An eligible prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, Fetterolf is ranked No. 11 among North American goaltenders in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings. Named the CHL Goaltender of the Year, Fetterolf became the first Ottawa 67’s player to receive the honour and just the second rookie or first-year CHL goaltender to capture the award, joining Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs in 1994-95. Defenceman – Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL): 45G-38A, 83 PTS, +55 in 55 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Montreal Canadiens prospect authored one of the greatest goal-scoring seasons by a defenceman in modern CHL history, scoring 45 goals — the highest single-season total by a CHL blueliner in the 21st century and the most since Greg Hawgood’s 48-goal campaign in 1987-88. The 20-year-old captain from Chauvin, Alta., was the only defenceman to finish among the CHL’s top 10 goal scorers, while his 19 power-play goals and 11 game-winning goals both ranked among the league leaders. Named CHL Defenceman of the Year, Pickford became the second Medicine Hat Tigers player to win the award, joining Kris Russell in 2006-07. Defenceman – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL): 28G-42A, 70 PTS, +46 in 56 GP during the 2025-26 season; Aitcheson put together a record-setting season in Barrie, leading all OHL defencemen with 70 points while establishing a new Colts franchise record for goals by a defenceman with 28. The New York Islanders prospect and Toronto, Ont., native also finished among the OHL leaders with a +46 rating and six game-winning goals, while his 15 power-play goals led all OHL blueliners. Named the OHL’s Defenceman of the Year, Aitcheson closed out his Colts career as the franchise’s all-time leader in both goals (63) and points (171) by a defenceman. Forward – Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers / OHL): 29G-42A, 71 PTS, +20 in 56 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Tampa Bay Lightning prospect was named the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player after making an immediate impact with the Kitchener Rangers following a mid-season move from the London Knights. The 20-year-old from Toronto recorded 43 points and a +31 rating in 28 games with Kitchener, helping the Rangers finish atop the Western Conference standings for the first time since 2008. O’Reilly also won 58 per cent of his faceoffs and was recognized in the OHL Coaches Poll as the Western Conference’s smartest player, best faceoff man, and best defensive forward. He carried that form into the spring, earning both OHL Playoff MVP and Memorial Cup MVP honours while leading Kitchener to a Memorial Cup title. With that sweep, he became just the fourth player in CHL history to win regular-season, playoff, and Memorial Cup MVP honours in the same season, joining Brad Richards, Corey Perry, and Mitch Marner. The championship also marked his second straight Memorial Cup title after winning with London a year earlier, placing him among a rare group of players to win back-to-back Memorial Cups with different teams. Forward – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL): 51G-51A, 102 PTS, +62 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Anaheim Ducks prospect captured the CHL’s David Branch Player of the Year Award after being named the QMJHL’s Most Valuable Player and winning the first scoring title of his QMJHL career. The 20-year-old from Rimouski, Que., finished with 102 points, including 51 goals and 51 assists, to become one of only two CHL players to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks in 2025-26. Massé also tied for the CHL lead in goals, ranked second in the QMJHL with a +62 rating and eight game-winning goals, and helped lead Chicoutimi to its first QMJHL Championship title in 32 years. With his CHL MVP honour, Massé became just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award over his career, joining Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Alex DeBrincat, Alexis Lafrenière, and Gavin McKenna. Forward – Liam Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL): 45G-59A, 104 PTS, +47 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; the 18-year-old from Osoyoos, B.C., finished second in scoring among all WHL and CHL skaters with 104 points in 68 games. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Liam is ranked 20th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings. His 45 goals were tied for second in the WHL, while his 59 assists ranked fifth across the league. One of only four CHL players to reach the 100-point mark in 2025-26, Ruck also tied for third in the CHL with 10 game-winning goals and helped Medicine Hat finish atop the Central Division. Originally selected ninth overall by the Tigers in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Ruck was also a member of Medicine Hat’s 2025 WHL Championship team a year ago.

CHL Second All-Star Team

Goaltender – Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL): 40-7-1-2 record, 2.27 GAA, .922 SV% & 3 SO in 50 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Detroit Red Wings prospect captured the QMJHL’s Patrick-Roy Trophy after a dominant season with the Moncton Wildcats. Guimond led all QMJHL goaltenders in wins, goals-against average, save percentage, and minutes played, while his 40 victories also led the CHL. The 20-year-old became the first CHL goaltender to reach the 40-win mark since Dustin Wolf in 2018-19 and just the sixth QMJHL netminder since 2000 to do so. Guimond helped guide Moncton to a second consecutive QMJHL regular-season championship and concluded his QMJHL career with a league-record 2.14 career goals-against average. Defenceman – Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds / OHL): 18G-30A, 48 PTS, +27 in 45 GP during the 2025-26 season; ranked No. 2 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, Reid established himself as the highest-ranked current CHL skater in this year’s draft class. The 18-year-old from Chesterfield, Mich., averaged better than a point per game with the Soo Greyhounds and was one of just six first-year draft-eligible defencemen across the CHL to do so. A finalist for the OHL’s Defenceman of the Year Award, Reid was recognized in four categories in the OHL Coaches Poll, including as the Western Conference’s Best Offensive Defenceman. He was also named the CHL’s Top Draft Prospect for 2025-26, becoming the eighth defenceman to claim the award since it was first presented in 1991. Reid also marked the second straight OHL blueliner to receive the honour, following Erie Otters defenceman Matthew Schaefer, who won the award a year ago before capturing this year’s Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year. Defenceman – Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL): 13G-68A, 81 PTS, +58 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season; Bleyl delivered a historic rookie campaign from the blue line, setting a new QMJHL record for points by a rookie defenceman with 81 in 63 games. Ranked No. 17 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, he also led the entire QMJHL with 68 assists — the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century. Bleyl became only the second player in QMJHL history to win both the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as Defenceman of the Year and the Sidney-Crosby Trophy as Rookie of the Year in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov. After helping Moncton capture a second consecutive QMJHL regular-season title, he was also named the CHL Rookie of the Year, becoming just the fourth defenceman to win the award after Philippe Boucher, Bryan Berard, and Landon DuPont, as well as the first Wildcats player to receive the honour. Forward – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL): 37G-60A, 97 PTS, +9 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season; ranked No. 8 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting in its Final Rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, Klepov captured the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s leading scorer and the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy as the league’s top-scoring right winger after finishing with 97 points in 67 games. The 17-year-old from Deerfield Beach, Fla., became the first rookie in his first two years of OHL eligibility to lead the league in scoring since Jack Valiquette in 1973-74 and the first rookie to lead any CHL Member League in scoring since Patrick Kane in 2006-07. Klepov’s 37 goals tied Cole Perfetti’s Saginaw Spirit rookie record, while his 60 assists and 97 points established new franchise rookie benchmarks. Forward – Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL): 21G-87A, 108 PTS, +45 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; Ruck captured the Bob Clarke Trophy and the CHL Top Scorer Award after leading the WHL and the entire CHL with 108 points. Ranked No. 23 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting in its Final Rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, the 18-year-old from Osoyoos, B.C., recorded a CHL-best 87 assists in 68 games, serving as one of the driving forces behind a Medicine Hat team that led the WHL in goals, owned the league’s top power play, and finished atop the Central Division. Ruck’s twin brother, Liam, finished second in both the WHL and CHL scoring races with 104 points, making Markus and Liam the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season. Forward – Tij Iginla (Kelowna Rockets / WHL): 41G-49A, 90 PTS, +47 in 48 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Utah Mammoth prospect returned from an injury-shortened 2024-25 campaign to produce at one of the highest rates in the CHL. The 19-year-old from Lake Country, B.C., led all WHL skaters and ranked second across the CHL with 1.88 points per game, finishing with 90 points in just 48 contests. Iginla established new career highs in both assists and points, while his 41 goals ranked tied for sixth among WHL skaters. He was also one of just five players across the CHL to top 40 goals and 40 assists in 2025-26. Selected sixth overall by Utah in the 2024 NHL Draft, Iginla has recorded 225 points in 184 career WHL regular-season games.

CHL Third All-Star Team

Goaltender – Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars / WHL): 32-13-0-0 record, 2.51 GAA, .919 SV% & 4 SO in 46 GP during the 2025-26 season; the San Jose Sharks prospect became the first Prince George Cougars goaltender to capture the Del Wilson Memorial Trophy and just the third netminder in franchise history to earn the honour. The 6-foot-6 netminder from North Vancouver, B.C., led the WHL in both wins (32) and save percentage (.919), tied for second in shutouts (4), and ranked fourth in goals-against average (2.51). Ravensbergen helped Prince George record a third consecutive 40-win season, while allowing two goals or fewer in 25 of his 46 appearances. Undrafted into the WHL, he owns 91 career regular-season wins across three seasons with the Cougars. Defenceman – Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL): 18G-55A, 73 PTS, +59 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season; one year after being named CHL Rookie of the Year, DuPont continued to build on his exceptional start in Everett. The 17-year-old from Calgary, Alta., established career highs across the board with 18 goals, 55 assists, 73 points, and a +59 rating in 63 games. Eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft, DuPont finished tied for fourth among all WHL defencemen in points, while his 55 assists were tied for second among league blueliners. The right-shot defenceman also added 28 power-play assists, the second-highest total among all WHL skaters. Defenceman – Daxon Rudolph (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL): 28G-50A, 78 PTS, +32 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; Rudolph posted one of the top offensive seasons by a WHL defenceman in his NHL Draft year, leading the Prince Albert Raiders in scoring while helping the club capture the East Division title. Ranked No. 5 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting in its Final Rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, the 18-year-old from Lacombe, Alta., finished third among WHL defencemen in both goals and points, while his 28 goals tied a Raiders franchise record for goals by a defenceman, matching the mark set by Josh Morrissey in 2013-14. Originally selected first overall by Prince Albert in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Rudolph also represented Team CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge and captained Team East at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game. Forward – Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL): 33G-56A, 89 PTS, +40 in 54 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Barrie Colts co-captain was named the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year after delivering one of the OHL’s most complete seasons. The Utah Mammoth prospect led Barrie with 89 points in just 54 games while taking only 29 penalty minutes, and his 1.65 points-per-game average ranked second in the OHL. Beaudoin also finished tied for the OHL lead with 10 game-winning goals and won 55 per cent of his faceoffs. In the OHL Coaches Poll, the 20-year-old from Kanata, Ont., led all Eastern Conference players with four first-place finishes — hardest worker, best defensive forward, best on faceoffs, and best penalty killer. Forward – Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds / OHL): 33G-61A, 94 PTS, +21 in 65 GP during the 2025-26 season; the Flint Firebirds captain helped lead his club to the best season in its 10-year history while setting a new franchise record with 61 assists. The 6-foot-7 winger from Markham, Ont., finished with 94 points, a 47-point improvement from the previous season, and placed fifth in the OHL with 250 shots on goal. A fifth-round pick of the New York Rangers in the 2024 NHL Draft, Aspinall also tied for the OHL lead with eight first goals and converted on four of six shootout attempts. His breakout campaign earned him OHL Player of the Month honours in November and recognition in both the hardest shot and best playmaker categories in the Western Conference portion of the OHL Coaches Poll. Forward – JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL): 42G-55A, 97 PTS, +13 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; Hurlbert enjoyed one of the most productive rookie seasons in Kamloops Blazers history, recording 97 points to surpass Scottie Upshall’s previous franchise rookie benchmark of 87. Ranked No. 12 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting heading into the 2026 NHL Draft, the Allen, Texas product led all WHL rookies in scoring and tied Nikita Klepov for the most points by any CHL rookie in 2025-26. Hurlbert became just the third player in Blazers history to win the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy as WHL Rookie of the Year, joining Upshall and Ron Shudra. He also ranked among WHL leaders in points, goals, first goals, and assists while serving as an alternate captain in his first WHL season.

CHL All-Rookie Team

Goaltender – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL): 29-9-2-1 record, 2.07 GAA, .923 SV% & 6 SO in 41 GP during the 2025-26 season; Fetterolf’s first CHL season produced one of the top rookie goaltending campaigns in recent CHL and OHL history. The 18-year-old from Sewickley, Pa., set an Ottawa 67’s franchise record with a 2.07 goals-against average, while his six shutouts established a new OHL rookie record. Fetterolf also shared the Dave Pinkney Trophy with Jaeden Nelson as the OHL’s lowest goals-against tandem and received the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy as the rookie goaltender with the league’s lowest goals-against average. An eligible prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, Fetterolf is ranked No. 11 among North American goaltenders in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings. Defenceman – Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL): 13G-68A, 81 PTS, +58 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season; Bleyl finished second among all QMJHL rookies with 81 points, setting a league record for points by a rookie defenceman. His 68 assists led the QMJHL regardless of position and represented the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century. Ranked 17th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, Bleyl ended the season with three QMJHL trophies — the Sidney-Crosby Trophy, Émile-Bouchard Trophy, and Raymond-Lagacé Trophy — before being named CHL Rookie of the Year. Defenceman – Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit / OHL): 12G-45A, 57 PTS, -3 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; Harper made an immediate impact with Saginaw, setting a new Spirit record for points by a rookie defenceman. The 17-year-old from Tampa, Fla., recorded 57 points in 68 games while seeing significant minutes on the Spirit blue line. A 2027 NHL Draft prospect, Harper joined Saginaw after winning gold with the United States at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and later represented his country at the 2026 IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championship. He also earned the OHL’s Bobby Smith Trophy as Scholastic Player of the Year after posting a 93.2 per cent academic average and graduating a full year early. Forward – Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs / OHL): 29G-55A, 84 PTS, +33 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season; Malhotra emerged as one of the OHL’s most productive rookies in his first season with the Brantford Bulldogs. The 6-foot-2 centre recorded 84 points in 67 games, setting a new franchise record for points by a Bulldogs rookie. Ranked sixth among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, Malhotra also scored eight game-winning goals, produced 30 power-play points, and was a finalist among the Eastern Conference’s top stickhandlers in the OHL Coaches Poll. His strong start included points in 11 of his first 12 games, highlighted by a five-point performance against Sudbury on September 27. Forward – JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL): 42G-55A, 97 PTS, +13 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season; Hurlbert’s outstanding rookie season saw him become the highest-scoring first-year player in Kamloops Blazers history. The 6-foot forward led all WHL rookies and tied for the CHL rookie scoring lead with 97 points, while his 42 goals ranked tied for fourth among WHL skaters. The Allen, Texas, native became just the third rookie in Blazers history to score 40 goals in a season, joining Scottie Upshall and Rudolfs Balcers. He was also named to the WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team and finished as the No. 12-ranked North American skater in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings. Forward – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL): 37G-60A, 97 PTS, +9 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season; Klepov became just the third player in OHL history to win both the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy and the Emms Family Award as Rookie of the Year in the same season, joining Jack Valiquette and Patrick Kane. The 17-year-old Saginaw Spirit forward led the OHL with 97 points and became the first rookie to lead any CHL Member League in scoring since Kane did so with London in 2006-07. Ranked No. 8 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting in its Final Rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, Klepov recorded at least three points in a game 13 times and earned OHL Rookie of the Month honours in October, January, and February.]]> Memorial Cup Champion and Former NHL Head Coach Drew Bannister Returns to Lead the Soo Greyhounds https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/memorial-cup-champion-and-former-nhl-head-coach-drew-bannister-returns-to-lead-the-soo-greyhounds Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:18:00 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/memorial-cup-champion-and-former-nhl-head-coach-drew-bannister-returns-to-lead-the-soo-greyhounds Photos courtesy of Terry Wilson / OHL Images and Getty Images

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON- The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club announced today that Drew Bannister has been named the club’s Head Coach effective July 1, 2026. Bannister returns to the Greyhounds on a three-year agreement, bringing with him one of the most accomplished resumes in franchise history as both a player and coach. For more than three decades, Bannister’s hockey journey has been intertwined with the Soo Greyhounds organization. As a player from 1990 to 1994, Bannister established himself as one of the club’s cornerstone defencemen during one of the most successful eras in franchise history. He helped lead the Greyhounds to consecutive Ontario Hockey League championships in 1991 and 1992 before capturing the Memorial Cup in 1993. Over 222 regular-season games in a Greyhound uniform, Bannister recorded 118 points while earning a reputation as a dependable leader on and off the ice. Following a successful 17-year professional playing career, Bannister returned to Sault Ste. Marie in 2015 as head coach and quickly re-established the Greyhounds among the Ontario Hockey League’s elite programs. Over three seasons behind the Greyhound bench, Bannister compiled an outstanding record of 136-50-13-5 while developing numerous players who would advance to professional hockey. His tenure culminated in a historic 2017-18 campaign when the Greyhounds posted a franchise-record 55-7-3-3 regular-season record, one of the finest seasons in OHL history. The remarkable season earned Bannister both the Matt Leyden Trophy as Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year and the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award as the top coach in the Canadian Hockey League. “Drew Bannister embodies what it means to be a Soo Greyhound,” said Tim Lukenda, President and Governor of the Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club. “His connection to this organization runs deep. He helped bring a Memorial Cup championship to our city as a player and later returned to build one of the most successful teams in franchise history as our head coach.” Kyle Raftis, General Manager of the Soo Greyhounds, added, “Beyond his accomplishments, Drew is an exceptional leader, teacher and developer of young talent. His experience at every level of the game, including the National Hockey League and internationally, will be invaluable to our players and our organization. We are thrilled to welcome Drew and his family back to Sault Ste. Marie.” Since leaving the Greyhounds in 2018, Bannister has continued to build an impressive coaching résumé in professional hockey. He advanced through the American Hockey League before earning the opportunity to serve as head coach of the National Hockey League’s St. Louis Blues. Most recently, Hockey Canada selected Bannister to lead Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team at the 2026 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship, further recognizing his standing as one of the country’s premier coaches and developers of young players. “Returning to the Soo Greyhounds is a tremendous honour,” said Bannister. “This organization has played an important role in my life from my days as a player through my first opportunity as a head coach. The Greyhounds have a proud tradition built on hard work, character and excellence, and I am excited to be back and help lead the next generation of players.” “The support of this community is unlike anywhere else in hockey. I look forward to reconnecting with our fans and working with our players as we pursue success on the ice and continue building young men who will be successful in hockey and in life.” The Greyhounds will formally introduce Bannister at a media availability to be announced at a later date. ]]> Greyhounds 2026-27 Regular Season Schedule Unveiled https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/greyhounds-2026-27-regular-season-schedule-unveiled Wed, 17 Jun 2026 02:55:22 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/greyhounds-2026-27-regular-season-schedule-unveiled TORONTO — The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today released its complete 2026-27 regular-season schedule, a 684-game slate that sees all 20 member clubs play 68 games apiece. The season opens Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, and runs through Sunday, March 21, 2027, ahead of the OHL Playoffs and the road to the J. Ross Robertson Cup. To view the Soo Greyhounds complete 2026-27 regular season schedule CLICK HERE. The schedule again features interleague play with the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), with eight crossover games arranged in four home-and-home series. The campaign drops the puck Thursday, Sept. 17, when the Peterborough Petes host the Kingston Frontenacs in the league’s first game of the season (7:05 p.m.). One night later, on Friday, Sept. 18, the Kitchener Rangers raise their J. Ross Robertson Cup and Memorial Cup championship banners before hosting the Owen Sound Attack in their home opener (7 p.m.). The OHL’s second annual Rivalry Week runs Oct. 21-25, sending all 20 clubs head-to-head with their fiercest rival in a home-and-home set. Ten of the league’s most storied rivalries will play out twice across the five-day stretch — once on each club’s home ice — with bragging rights and early standings positioning on the line. Two franchises celebrate landmark anniversaries in 2026-27. The Erie Otters celebrate their 30th season in the OHL, while the Saginaw Spirit comemmorate 25 years. The 2026-27 schedule includes nine school-day games — weekday morning starts getting underway before noon — giving thousands of students across OHL markets the chance to take in a game as part of a class trip. The season points toward the 2027 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, hosted by the Guelph Storm beginning May 20, 2027. The event coincides with the City of Guelph’s bicentennial, setting the stage for a landmark celebration of junior hockey in the community. All OHL games stream live on FloHockey. Lock in a full season of OHL action: 12 months for the price of three — a saving of more than 75 percent compared with the monthly plan. Offer valid through July 31, 2026. ]]> Chase Reid earns CHL Top Prospect Award honours as the league’s top talent is celebrated at the 2026 CHL Awards https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/chase-reid-earns-chl-top-prospect-award-honours-as-the-leagues-top-talent-is-celebrated-at-the-2026-chl-awards Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:22:34 +0000 Gerry Liscumb Jr. https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/article/chase-reid-earns-chl-top-prospect-award-honours-as-the-leagues-top-talent-is-celebrated-at-the-2026-chl-awards The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to unveil its 2025-26 award winners, headlined by Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL), who was named the CHL David Branch Player of the Year at a ceremony held Monday in downtown Toronto.

With the honour, Massé becomes just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), John Tavares (Oshawa Generals / OHL), Alex DeBrincat (Erie Otters / OHL), Alexis Lafrenière (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), and Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL). The 19-year-old from Rimouski, Que., previously earned CHL Rookie of the Year honours in 2022-23 before capturing the QMJHL’s Michel-Brière Trophy as league MVP this season. Massé is also the second Chicoutimi Saguenéens player to win the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award, joining Pierre-Marc Bouchard, who earned the honour in 2001-02. He becomes the first QMJHL player to capture the CHL’s top individual award since Lafrenière won it in back-to-back seasons with the Rimouski Océanic in 2018-19 and 2019-20. The Anaheim Ducks prospect finished the 2025-26 campaign with 102 points, including 51 goals and 51 assists, in 63 games, helping lead Chicoutimi to its first QMJHL Championship title in 32 years. Among the other notable winners was a pair of Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) standouts in 2026 NHL Draft prospect Markus Ruck and Montreal Canadiens prospect Bryce Pickford. Ruck was named the CHL’s Top Scorer after leading the league with 108 points (21G-87A), while Pickford earned CHL Defenceman of the Year honours after producing one of the most prolific goal-scoring seasons ever by a CHL and WHL blueliner, tallying 45 goals in 55 games. Another historic winner was Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) defenceman Tommy Bleyl, who was named CHL Rookie of the Year following a record-setting season in the QMJHL. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became just the fourth defenceman to earn the honour, joining Philippe Boucher (Granby Bisons / QMJHL, 1990-91), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL, 1994-95), and Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2024-25). With Bleyl following DuPont, it also marked the first time in CHL history that defencemen won CHL Rookie of the Year in consecutive seasons. Bleyl set a new QMJHL record for points by a rookie defenceman with 81, surpassing a mark that had stood since 1978. The 2026 CHL Awards also saw Everett Silvertips (WHL) head coach Steve Hamilton earn the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award after leading Everett to the best regular season in franchise history, a 57-8-2-1 record for 117 points, along with the club’s first WHL Championship, first Memorial Cup appearance, and first Memorial Cup Final. Hamilton became the first Silvertips head coach to win the CHL’s Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s (OHL) also made history Monday by earning CHL Goaltender of the Year honours following a record-setting rookie season in the OHL. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became the first Ottawa 67’s player to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award, as well as just the second rookie or first-year CHL netminder — and the first in 31 years — to capture the honour, joining Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL), who won it in 1994-95. Fetterolf led the CHL with a 2.07 goals-against average and .923 save percentage, while his six shutouts set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. Other award winners announced Monday included Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL) as the CHL Top Draft Prospect, Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts (OHL) as CHL Sportsman Player of the Year, Alex Weiermair of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL) as CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, and Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) as CHL Humanitarian of the Year. Kearsey’s honour also continues a remarkable run of community leadership from the Charlottetown Islanders. With his recognition Monday, the Islanders become the first club in CHL history to win the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons, following Maxwell Jardine’s 2024-25 victory. Charlottetown has now produced the QMJHL finalist for the honour in four of the last five seasons — including each of the last three — further underscoring the Islanders’ sustained commitment to making an impact beyond the rink. Presented annually, the CHL Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of players and coaches from across the CHL, with 10 trophies presented based on individual performances, leadership, community impact, academic achievement, and contributions to team success.  For more information on each award and its three finalists, please visit chl.ca/tag/chl-awards. David Branch Player of the Year Award  Winner – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) Nominees – Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) & Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers / OHL) The CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the player judged to be the most outstanding in the Canadian Hockey League. Formerly known as the CHL Player of the Year Award, the trophy was renamed in 2019-20 in honour of David Branch, who served as OHL Commissioner from 1979-2024 and CHL President from 1996-2019. Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) earned the honour after being named the QMJHL’s Most Valuable Player and capturing the first scoring title of his QMJHL career. The Anaheim Ducks prospect recorded 102 points, including 51 goals and 51 assists, in 63 games, finishing six points ahead of Val-d’Or Foreurs forward Philippe Veilleux in the QMJHL scoring race. Massé’s 51 goals also tied for the CHL lead, while he was one of only two players across the CHL to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks in 2025-26. He ranked second in the QMJHL with a plus-62 rating and eight game-winning goals, while his 1.62 points-per-game rate stood as the highest in the CHL among players who appeared in more than 60 games. The third-round pick of the Anaheim Ducks in the 2024 NHL Draft becomes just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL David Branch Player of the Year over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Alex DeBrincat, Alexis Lafrenière, and Gavin McKenna. Defenceman of the Year Award Winner – Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) Nominees – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL) & Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Defenceman of the Year Award is given out annually to the top defenceman in the Canadian Hockey League. Bryce Pickford of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) earned the honour after authoring one of the greatest goal-scoring seasons by a defenceman in modern CHL history. The Montreal Canadiens prospect finished the 2025-26 season with 83 points, including 45 goals and 38 assists, along with a plus-55 rating in 55 games. His 45 goals were the most by a CHL defenceman in nearly 40 years, dating back to Greg Hawgood’s 48-goal campaign in 1987-88, and the highest single-season total by a CHL blueliner in the 21st century. Pickford was the only defenceman to finish among the CHL’s top 10 goal scorers in 2025-26. His 45 goals were tied for second among WHL skaters, while his 19 power-play goals and 11 game-winning goals ranked tied for first in the CHL. The 20-year-old captain from Chauvin, Alta., also helped Medicine Hat claim a second consecutive Central Division title and was named to the WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team. With the honour, Pickford becomes the second Medicine Hat Tigers player to win CHL Defenceman of the Year, joining Kris Russell, who earned the award in 2006-07. Goaltender of the Year Award Winner – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) Nominees – Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars / WHL) & Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Goaltender of the Year Award is given out annually to the top goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League. Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s (OHL) earned the honour following a historic rookie season between the pipes. Signed by Ottawa as an undrafted free agent last summer, Fetterolf quickly emerged as one of the OHL’s top goaltenders, finishing the regular season with a 29-9-2-1 record, a franchise-record 2.07 goals-against average, and a CHL-leading .923 save percentage. His six shutouts also set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. The 18-year-old from Sewickley, Pa., led the CHL in both goals-against average and save percentage, while his 2.07 goals-against average stands as the fifth-lowest single-season mark by an OHL goaltender in league history. He also shared the Dave Pinkney Trophy with Jaeden Nelson as the OHL’s lowest goals-against tandem and received the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy as the rookie goaltender with the league’s lowest goals-against average. Fetterolf becomes the first Ottawa 67’s player to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award. He is also just the second rookie or first-year CHL goaltender to capture the honour, and the first in 31 years, following Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL) in 1994-95. Fetterolf also becomes just the third American-born netminder to win the award, joining Michael Houser of the London Knights (OHL), who earned the honour in 2011-12, and Dustin Wolf of the Everett Silvertips (WHL), who captured it in 2019-20. Rookie of the Year Award Winner – Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) Nominees – JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL) & Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) The CHL Rookie of the Year Award is given out annually to the top rookie in the Canadian Hockey League. Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) earned the honour after a record-setting debut season from the blue line. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect finished second among all QMJHL rookies with 81 points in 63 games, setting a new league record for points by a rookie defenceman. The previous mark of 77 points had stood since 1978 and was held by Gaston Therrien. Bleyl’s 68 assists led the entire QMJHL, regardless of position, and stand as the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century. Bleyl also became only the second player in QMJHL history to win both the Sidney-Crosby Trophy as Rookie of the Year and the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as Defenceman of the Year in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov, who accomplished the feat with the Drummondville Voltigeurs in 2008-09. He also captured the Raymond-Lagacé Trophy as Defensive Rookie of the Year. With the CHL honour, Bleyl becomes just the fourth defenceman to be named CHL Rookie of the Year, joining Philippe Boucher, Bryan Berard, and Landon DuPont, who captured the award last season. He is also the first Moncton Wildcats player to win the award and the sixth American to receive CHL Rookie of the Year honours, joining Patrick Kane of the London Knights (OHL), Alex DeBrincat of the Erie Otters (OHL), David Legwand of the Plymouth Whalers (OHL), Bryan Berard of the Detroit Jr. Red Wings (OHL), and Patrick O’Sullivan of the Mississauga IceDogs (OHL). Top Scorer Award Winner – Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) Nominees – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) & Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Top Scorer Award is given out annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. It was first awarded in 1994. Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) captured the honour after leading the WHL and the entire CHL with 108 points during the 2025-26 season. The 18-year-old from Osoyoos, B.C., recorded 21 goals and a CHL-best 87 assists while posting a plus-45 rating in 68 games. His exceptional vision and playmaking ability helped drive a Medicine Hat team that led the WHL in goals, owned the league’s top power play, and finished atop the Central Division. Ruck’s twin brother, Liam, finished second in both the WHL and CHL scoring races with 104 points, making Markus and Liam the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season. They also became the first brothers ever to place 1-2 in scoring within a CHL Member League. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became the first Medicine Hat skater since Linden Vey in 2010-11 to lead the CHL in scoring and just the second Tigers player to win the CHL Top Scorer Award. Ruck was held off the scoresheet just 12 times all season and recorded at least three points in a game on 11 occasions. Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award Winner – Steve Hamilton (Everett Silvertips / WHL) Nominees – Dave Cameron (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) & Sylvain Favreau (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL) Named in recognition of former Ottawa 67’s head coach and CHL all-time wins leader Brian Kilrea, the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award is presented annually to the Canadian Hockey League’s top coach. Steve Hamilton of the Everett Silvertips (WHL) earned the honour after guiding Everett through the best season in franchise history. In just his second season with the Silvertips, Hamilton led the club to a 57-8-2-1 record and 117 points, helping Everett capture a second straight Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy as WHL regular-season champions. Everett’s 57 wins and 117 points both set franchise records, while the Silvertips’ .860 points percentage ranked seventh all-time in CHL history among teams that played at least 50 games. The club was one of the CHL’s most complete teams, finishing third in the WHL with 304 goals for while allowing just 173 goals against, the second-fewest in the league. Hamilton’s season continued into a historic postseason run, as Everett went 16-2 through the WHL Playoffs to capture the first Ed Chynoweth Cup title in franchise history. The Silvertips then made their first Memorial Cup appearance, recorded their first Memorial Cup win and shutout, and advanced to their first Memorial Cup Final. Hamilton becomes the first Silvertips coach to capture the CHL Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. Top Draft Prospect Award Winner – Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds / OHL) Nominees – Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars / WHL) & Maddox Dagenais (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) The CHL Top Draft Prospect Award is presented annually to the top eligible prospect for the NHL Draft from the Canadian Hockey League. The award was first presented in 1991. Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL) earned the 2026 honour after establishing himself as the highest-ranked current CHL skater ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft. Ranked No. 2 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Reid enjoyed an outstanding season with the Greyhounds, recording 48 points, including 18 goals and 30 assists, in 45 regular season games. The 18-year-old defenceman from Chesterfield, Mich., was the only first-year draft-eligible defenceman in the OHL — and one of just six across the CHL — to average at least a point per game during the 2025-26 season. Although he missed the final 17 games of the regular season due to injury, Reid returned during the playoffs and recorded six points, including three goals and three assists, in 10 games. A gifted skater with high-end offensive instincts and the ability to play significant minutes in all situations, Reid was recognized in four categories in the annual OHL Coaches Poll. He was voted the Western Conference’s Best Offensive Defenceman while also receiving recognition for Best Skater, Best Shot, and Best Defensive Defenceman. Reid becomes the second Greyhounds player to win the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award, joining Joe Thornton, who captured the honour in 1996-97. He also becomes the fourth American to earn the award, joining Bryan Berard of the Detroit Jr. Red Wings (OHL), Patrick Kane of the London Knights (OHL), and Seth Jones of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL). With Reid’s win, defencemen have now claimed the award eight times since it was first presented in 1991. He also marks the second straight OHL blueliner to receive the honour, following Erie Otters defenceman Matthew Schaefer, who won the award a year ago before capturing this year’s Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year. Sportsman of the Year Award Winner – Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL) Nominees: Braeden Cootes (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL) & Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the most sportsmanlike player in the Canadian Hockey League. Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts (OHL) earned the honour after delivering one of the league’s most complete seasons while maintaining a disciplined, hard-driving style. The Barrie Colts captain led his club in scoring with 89 points, including 33 goals and 56 assists, in just 54 games, while posting a plus-40 rating and taking only 29 penalty minutes. His 1.65 points-per-game average ranked second in the OHL, placing him among the CHL’s most efficient offensive performers. Beaudoin’s well-rounded game was recognized in the OHL Coaches Poll, where he led all players in the Eastern Conference with four first-place finishes — hardest worker, best defensive forward, best on face-offs, and best penalty killer — while also placing second in the category of smartest player. He also finished tied for the OHL lead with 10 game-winning goals and won 55 per cent of his face-offs. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round, 24th overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 211-pound centreman from Kanata, Ont., has registered 222 points in 236 career OHL regular-season games. Beaudoin becomes the second Barrie Colts player to win the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award, joining Evan Vierling, who received the honour in 2022-23. Scholastic Player of the Year Award Winner – Alex Weiermair (Portland Winterhawks / WHL) Nominees – Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) & Nathan Brisson (Val-d’Or Foreurs / QMJHL) The CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award is presented annually to a Canadian Hockey League player who is best able to combine success on the ice with success in the classroom. Alex Weiermair of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL) earned the honour after excelling academically while enjoying a standout overage season on the ice. The 21-year-old from Los Angeles, Calif., maintained a 4.0 GPA across challenging university coursework, including chemistry, business, history, and psychology. His academic background also includes advanced-level calculus and physics, while away from formal coursework, Weiermair speaks German and is teaching himself Italian. On the ice, the Vegas Golden Knights prospect recorded 93 points, including 37 goals and 56 assists, in 66 regular season games. He led the Winterhawks in scoring and finished fifth overall in the WHL while contributing consistently in all situations. Despite playing a heavy-minute role, Weiermair recorded just 28 penalty minutes and was also named a finalist for the Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player. An alternate captain in Portland, Weiermair was recognized throughout the organization for his maturity, humility, integrity, and leadership both on and off the ice. With the honour, Weiermair becomes the second Portland Winterhawks player to be named CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, joining Dan Hulak, who captured the award following the 2000-01 season. Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner – Marcus Kearsey (Charlottetown Islanders / QMJHL) Nominees: Shane Smith (Kelowna Rockets / WHL) & Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) The CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award is presented annually to the CHL player judged to have made the most notable contribution to his community. Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) earned the 2026 honour in recognition of his outstanding community involvement, leadership, and excellence on the ice. The Charlottetown captain was named the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year for the second time in three seasons, having previously received the QMJHL award in 2023-24. Kearsey’s recognition continues a remarkable run for the Islanders. With his CHL honour, Charlottetown becomes the first club in CHL history to win the Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons, after Maxwell Jardine captured the award in 2024-25. A Charlottetown Islanders player has now represented the QMJHL as a finalist for the honour in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three. Over four seasons in Charlottetown, Kearsey became one of the Islanders’ most active community ambassadors. He launched the Kearsey’s Kids program, inviting a child to each regular-season home game as his guest, complete with tickets, a personalized poster, a T-shirt, and a pre-game meet-and-greet. He also served as the Islanders’ Hockey Gives Blood ambassador, helping organize team blood donations and promote fan participation, while supporting Canadian Blood Services through more than 100 donations tied to the program. Kearsey’s impact also extended to several other causes across Prince Edward Island. He served as player ambassador for the Islanders’ One Game One Wish fundraiser in support of Make-A-Wish, helping the club reach its $10,000 goal, delivered an anti-bullying presentation to more than 100 students through PEI Crime Stoppers, and regularly took part in minor hockey practices, jamborees, school visits, autograph sessions, and youth hockey initiatives both during the season and in the offseason. On the ice, Kearsey enjoyed the best offensive season of his QMJHL career, recording a personal-high 55 points, including 15 goals and 40 assists, in 62 games. He finished fifth among QMJHL defencemen in scoring, while his five power-play goals and three game-winning goals both ranked second among league blueliners.]]>