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Spirit draft 14 total players at 2026 OHL Priority Selection

Joey Battaino — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:01:10 +0000

Kingston, Ont. – The Saginaw Spirit concluded their first in-person draft on Saturday afternoon with rounds 2-15 of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection at Slush Puppie Place. Beforehand, Saginaw took center Drew Bate of the London Jr. Knights with their sixth overall selection on Friday night. In total, the Spirit selected seven forwards, five defensemen, and two goalies. Eight players came from Ontario, two from both Michigan and Pennsylvania, one from Indiana and one from New York. “I thought it was great, we got a lot of the players we really targeted,” said GM Dave Drinkill. “I know our scouts are really happy with the way this turned out, now it’s all about development. For these families to come and take tours and see what we have to offer in Saginaw, I’m excited for them to see what a great place it is to play junior hockey.” 2nd Round, 24th Overall: (F) Kyler Lauder The Spirit took Lauder (LAW-durr) with their first selection of day two at the OHL Priority Selection. Lauder led the Central Ontario Wolves U16 AAA team with 35G-34A—69P in 32 games played as an alternate captain. He is a left-shot forward standing at 5’9.75”, 156lbs, and was named the OMHA East’s Player of the Year. In the playoffs, Lauder added 7G-9A—16P in eight games. “Kyler is a complete player,” said Head Scout Greg Hammell. “You look at the skating ability, the skill, the motor - we were really happy with the pick. He was a player that we didn’t think would be available for us at pick 24, so we were ecstatic when we could draft him. He’ll play up your lineup, contribute on both sides of the puck, and has shown that he can produce consistently.” 3rd Round, 45th Overall: (G) Egor Sokolov Sokolov (SOCK-oh-lov) of the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA team was the first goaltender taken by the Spirit at the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. The 16-year-old stands at 6’2, 192lbs and catches with his left hand. He posted a 2.20 goals against average (GAA) and .910 save percentage (SV%) with a 21-10-2 record. Sokolov also won his lone appearance at the 2026 OHL Cup. “Egor stood out to us immediately as a top-tier goalie in this draft class,” said Goaltending Coach Kevin Delamarter. “From his fundamental skills, size, and ability to read the play, to his excellent skating and high compete level on the ice, he’s a player with a very high ceiling. He is mature, disciplined, and incredibly dedicated to his overall game, and I’m excited to work with him in Saginaw.” 3rd Round, 58th Overall: (D) Brayden Barkic Defenseman Brayden Barkic (BARK-ik) was the first player at his position to be taken by the Spirit in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. A left-shot defenseman standing at 6’1.5”, 182lbs, Barkic spent this past season with the Don Mills Flyers U16 AAA team, registering 2G-9A--11P in 61games played. “Brayden is a kid that is a rare breed as far as his size and presence coupled with how mobile he is,” said Director of Player Development Jordan Selinger. “We think bringing that element and edge of physicality into the way Chris Lazary and his staff coach the game can really bring out some offense.” 4th Round, 71st Overall: (D) Griffin Carver Flat Rock, Michigan’s Griffin Carver became Saginaw’s first American drafted at the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. He captained the Detroit Little Caesars 15U AAA team in 2025-2026, posting 23 points (6G-17A) in 21 games in the regular season. Carver followed up with four assists in three playoff games, as well as five assists in five games at the 2026 OHL Cup. In April, Carver was named to the 2026-2027 US National Team Development Program Under-17 Team. “Anyone that has seen us play knows that we love offensive defensemen like Levi Harper, Zayne Parekh and Pavel Mintyukov. Carver fits right into that mold,” said Assistant GM Brian Prout. “We have a good history of allowing the NTDP to do what they do best, and that’s develop the players. They get bigger and stronger and more ready to step into the OHL when the time comes.” 6th Round, 121st Overall: (F) Jacob Curic Jacob Curic (CURR-ik) is a left-handed forward from the Toronto Nationals U16 AAA team. He stands at 6’3.75”, 192lbs. From Etobicoke, Ont., Curic scored three goals in 20 games with the Nationals while adding 132 penalty minutes. He added another four points (1G-3A) in eight games with the Oakville Rangers U16 AAA program. “I think physicality is the thing he brings most,” said Director of Player Development Jordan Selinger. “As a guy with a lot of size, he skates really well and is a presence on the ice. He’s got an intriguing skill set and there are some things we can help him with to get more offense out of his game.” 7th Round, 127th Overall: (D) Johnathan Tait Johnathan Tait comes to Saginaw from the Mississauga Senators U16 AAA team. He is a native of Burlington, Ontario and stands 6’1.25”, 168lbs. A left shot defenseman, Tait had nine assists in 32 games with the Senators in 2025-2026. “Johnny is someone that definitely caught our eye with him early on and we were definitely pleased to get him where we did in the draft,” said Selinger. “He plays a game that we’re looking for in Saginaw as far as moving pucks from the back end and I’m excited to see him at development camp.” 8th Round, 147th Overall: (G) Mason Martin Martin was the second goaltender taken by the Spirit at this year’s Priority Selection. From Byron Center, Mich., he played for the Fox Motors 15U AAA team in 2025-2026. Martin posted a 1.49 GAA, two shutouts, and an 8-2-0 record through ten regular season games. He is also a left-catching goaltender, and listed as 6’1”, 141lbs. His season also included an appearance with Team Gold at USA Hockey’s Boy’s Select 15 Player Development Camp. “He came very highly wanted going into this draft,” Michigan scout Ethan Range. “Watching him throughout the season, he showed very consistent and high-end compete along with his athleticism. He also showed great maturity in a lot of tough games and clutch moments where he really put the team on his shoulders.” 8th Round 155th Overall: (F) Cole Connolly A late-September birthday, Connolly was drafted from the Nichols School Prep B 16U team. He hails from Tonawanda, New York, and is listed at 6’2”, 176lbs. The right-shot forward put up an impressive 86 points (40G-46A) in 52 games of prep school action this season. He was teammates with current Spirit forward Sawyer Schmidt during the 2024-2025 season when the two were rostered with the Buffalo Junior Sabres 15U team. “Last year, he was definitely a player that we were following along with the Jr. Sabres and that we wanted to continue to follow this year,” said Range. “He’s a much stronger player this year in terms of physical strength and it’s really translating on the ice for him.” 9th Round, 167th Overall: (D) A.J. Foyt Foyt (FOY-t) was selected from Mount St. Charles Acadamy’s 15U AAA team. In 62 games with the team, he recorded 51 points (7G-44A). Foyt is a left-shot defenseman from Carmel, Ind., who measures in at 5’9.5”, 138lbs. He appeared at USA Hockey’s Boy’s Select 15 Player Development Camp this season. “I felt that he was a pretty dynamic defenseman. He creates a ton of offense by manipulating the other team,” said eastern US scout Jeff Beauparlant. “He can see multiple levels in his passing game and we’re pretty excited in where he can go. One of the big things is that his compete level continued to grow, and we know he does a lot of work away from the rink.” 10th Round, 187th Overall: (D) Gryson Gill Gryson (gr-ICE-on) Gill was selected out of the York Simcoe Express U16 AAA team. He is a right-shot defenseman from Brooklin, Ont. who measures in at 6’, 154lbs. He had 23 points (4G-19A) in 34 regular season games. Gill added an assist in ten playoff games for the Express and appeared in four games with them at the OHL Cup. “He played on a real good team in York-Simcoe. Gryson really executes that first pass out of the zone and has some very quick feet,” said OMHA scout Jamey Hicks. “There’s no panic in his game, he plays with confidence, and I’m excited to keep seeing him develop in the right direction.” 13th Round 247th Overall: (F) Luke McLean McLean (mick-LANE) was selected by Saginaw after playing with the Huron-Perth Lakers U16AAA team. The London, Ont. native stands 6’, 159lbs and is right-handed. In 30 games with the Lakers, McLean tallied 9G-13A—22P in 2025-2026. He added a goal and an assist in eight ALLIANCE playoff games and skated in four OHL Cup games with Huron-Perth. “I thought he really improved as the year went on,” said ALLIANCE scout Adam Simpson. “He’s a versatile, two-way forward and is a good athlete that we think is just going to get better. His aggressiveness, skating, and willingness to compete all improved. We think the puck skill and the offense will come in time, but he has a really strong foundation to work with.” 14th Round, 267th Overall: (F) Hayden Ferra Hayden Ferra (FAIR-uh) of Pittsburgh, Penn. was selected as Saginaw’s 14th round pick. He spent the season with the Pittsburgh Predators 16U AAA team and recorded 45 points (18G-27A) in 54 games while recording 214 PIM. Ferra is a right-shot forward standing 5’9”, 160lbs. “He’s a player we watched last year and that we had a lot of time for,” said Assistant GM Brian Prout. “We continued to watch him as a reentry player this year. We loved his hard work, his energy level, and the way that he hunts pucks. When he gets the puck, he’s a point-per-game player.” 15th Round, 287th Overall: (F) Daniel Vasko Saginaw’s final pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Vasko is a right-shot forward from Scranton, Penn. His season was spent with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Jr. Knights Premier 15’s program where he scored 40 points (10G-30A) in 39 games. Vasko measured 5’11”, 150lbs. “He’s a player that we thought had a lot of upside. At that point in the draft, you’re just trying to throw a dart, find a shooting star, find an elite quality, and we thought in this case it was a dart worth throwing. There are aspects of his game that we believe can really translate to the next level.” The new Spirit prospects will now head to Saginaw and Bay City for development camp on June 20th and 21st. Details on fan attendance, media availability, and camp scheduling will be made available shortly. Saginaw Spirit draft coverage is presented by Parlor Doughnuts.

Spirit select center Drew Bate sixth overall at 2026 OHL Priority Selection

Joey Battaino — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 02:18:23 +0000

Kingston, Ont. – The Saginaw Spirit opened the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore on Friday night by selecting center Drew Bate with the sixth overall pick. Bate, from Union, Ont., joins the Spirit from the London Jr. Knights U16 AAA program. “When pick five came in and Bate was still on the board, it was easy; put the pick in the computer, get the jersey, and get on stage,” said Spirit GM Dave Drinkill. “He always produces. The important thing with him is that he expects himself to score. He puts it on his own shoulders to be the driver on the team and guys need that in order to be in our league.” Bate led his Jr. Knights team in and ALLIANCE scoring with an impressive 72 points (34G-38A) in 27 games. He is a right-shot center standing in at 5’10.25, 163lbs. He led London in postseason scoring as well, with 7G-14A—21P in just eight ALLIANCE playoff games, and 7G-6A—13P in six games at the OHL Cup. “I was nervous sitting in the stands but looking forward to whoever drafted me, and I’m glad it was Saginaw,” said Bate. “I’m a hardworking player who is super competitive and super offensive. I can’t wait to get started.” With the Jr. Knights, Bate was a champion at both the U15 (2025) and U16 (2026) level. He was named the 2026 ALLIANCE Player of the Year this spring. “Drew was a guy we targeted from the start of the season, we saw him more than twenty times,” said Spirit Head Scout Greg Hammell. “He put together a phenomenal regular season and was consistent from start to finish.” The 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore continues tomorrow, June 13th with rounds 2-15. Round 2 begins at 9:00am and can be viewed live on Flo Hockey’s X, YouTube, and Facebook accounts. Saginaw Spirit draft coverage is presented by Parlor Doughnuts. Previous First Round Spirit Picks: 2026 – Drew Bate, 6th overall 2025 – Ryan Hanrahan, 13th overall 2024 – Dima Zhilkin, 19th overall 2023 – Aiden Young, 16th overall 2022 – Michael Misa, 1st overall 2021 – Luke McNamara, 15th overall 2020 – Adam Fantilli, 18th overall 2019 – Connor Punnett, 19th overall 2018 – Cole Perfetti, 5th overall 2017 – Nicholas Porco, 4th overall 2016 – Blade Jenkins, 4th overall 2015 – Brady Gilmour, 6th overall 2014 – Tye Felhaber, 10th overall 2013 – Mitchell Stephens, 8th overall 2012 – Jeremiah Addison, 12th overall 2011 – Nick Moutrey, 15th overall 2010 – Justin Kea, 13th overall 2009 – Anthony Camara, 14th overall 2008 – Brandon Saad, 10th overall 2007 – Daniel Pachis, 16th overall 2006 – Nick Crawford, 12th overall 2005 – Zack Torquato, 3rd overall 2004 – Matthew Corrente, 2nd overall 2003 – Patrick McNeill, 1st overall 2002 – Jean-Michel Rizk, 5th overall

How to Watch, Attend and Follow the 2026 OHL Priority Selection

Joey Battaino — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:08:07 +0000

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore takes place June 12-13 as all 20 Ontario Hockey League clubs look to build for the future by selecting the top U16 players from across Ontario and beyond. Whether you're wondering how to watch the 2026 OHL Draft, where to find live results, who owns the first overall pick, how to attend in person, or which prospects could hear their names called, this guide has everything you need to know ahead of one of the biggest events on the OHL calendar. From future NHL Draft picks to future OHL stars, the 2026 OHL Priority Selection marks the beginning of countless hockey journeys.

2026 OHL Priority Selection Date and Time

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection begins on Friday, June 12, before continuing through all remaining rounds on Saturday, June 13. 2026 OHL Draft Schedule

Friday, June 12
- Round 1 – 7:00 p.m. ET
Saturday, June 13
- Rounds 2-15 – 9:00 a.m. ET

Where is the 2026 OHL Priority Selection?

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection will be held at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston, Ontario, home of the Kingston Frontenacs. For the first time in more than 25 years, fans will have the opportunity to attend the OHL Draft in person and experience one of the league's most important events firsthand. Located in downtown Kingston, Slush Puppie Place will welcome OHL executives, scouts, coaches, prospects, families and hockey fans from across the province throughout draft weekend.

How to Attend the 2026 OHL Draft

Fans looking to experience the excitement of the OHL Draft in person have several ticket options available for the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Whether you're a dedicated scout, a lifelong OHL fan, or a family looking to witness the next generation of stars take their first step toward junior hockey, there is a ticket package for everyone.

Single Day Tickets
- Catch the opening rounds on Friday or the depth-building picks on Saturday. Perfect for fans who want to witness history in person.
Two-Day Weekend Pass
- Want the full OHL Draft experience? The Two-Day Weekend Pass provides access to both days of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, allowing fans to follow every pick from start to finish while enjoying savings compared to purchasing separate daily tickets.
Group Rates
- Bring your minor hockey team, teammates, family members or a group of friends and experience the draft together. Special group pricing is available for parties of 10 or more.
The VIP “Super Fan” Experience
- Get closer to the action with the VIP "Super Fan" Experience. This premium ticket package offers fans an exclusive draft-day experience and the opportunity to be part of one of the most exciting events on the OHL calendar.

How to Watch the 2026 OHL Priority Selection Live

Fans unable to attend in Kingston can still follow every selection through a variety of viewing options. The 2026 OHL Priority Selection will be broadcast live on YourTV and streamed through FloHockey's digital platforms. Watch the OHL Draft Live On:

Additional television availability will be shown locally through Rogers TV. Friday night will also be available through Super Sports Pak.

Where to Find Live 2026 OHL Draft Results

Fans can follow every selection in real time through the OHL's official draft tracker. The tracker will provide:

Live pick-by-pick results
Trade updates
Complete draft order updates

The OHL website and league social media channels will also provide coverage throughout draft weekend.

2026 OHL Priority Selection First Round Draft Order

The Oshawa Generals hold the first overall pick after winning the 2026 OHL Priority Selection Lottery. First Round Order

Oshawa Generals
Erie Otters
Brampton Steelheads
Sarnia Sting
Sudbury Wolves
Saginaw Spirit
Guelph Storm
Owen Sound Attack
Niagara IceDogs
Kingston Frontenacs
North Bay Battalion
Soo Greyhounds
Peterborough Petes
London Knights
Flint Firebirds
Windsor Spitfires
Barrie Colts
Ottawa 67’s
Kitchener Rangers
Brantford Bulldogs

Fans can view the complete 2026 OHL Priority Selection Draft Order, including all 15 rounds, here.

Get to Know the 2026 OHL Draft Prospects

Want to learn more about the players expected to hear their names called during the 2026 OHL Priority Selection? The OHL has you covered with comprehensive prospect coverage leading up to draft weekend. Prospect Profiles The OHL's Prospect Profile series highlights many of the top players eligible for selection while providing scouting reports, player backgrounds and season accomplishments. Top 100 Consensus Rankings The OHL's Top 100 Consensus Rankings combine evaluations from several of hockey's leading independent scouting services, including:

Elite Prospects
HockeyProspect.com
Neutral Zone
PDA Evaluations
PuckPreps

OHL Priority Selection Media Guide Check out the 2026 OHL Priority Selection Media Guide, complete with how the draft works, team directory, a complete eligibility list and extensive history section dating back to 1981. The rankings provide fans with one of the most comprehensive previews of the upcoming draft class.

What is the OHL Priority Selection?

The OHL Priority Selection is the Ontario Hockey League's annual draft for U16 players. Many of the prospects selected have competed in elite minor hockey leagues across Ontario and participated in showcase events such as the OHL Cup. The draft serves as the first step toward an OHL career and has launched the journeys of countless NHL players, NHL Draft picks and major junior stars. Each selection represents an opportunity for teams to build toward future success while adding promising young talent to their development pipeline.

OHL Draft History: Future NHL Stars Started Here

Every year, the OHL Priority Selection provides fans with their first glimpse at players who could one day become household names in the hockey world. Over the years, the draft has produced countless NHL stars, Stanley Cup champions, and first-round NHL Draft picks. Some of the biggest names to come through the OHL Priority Selection include:

Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters, 1st overall – 2023)
Connor McDavid (Erie Otters, 1st overall – 2012)
Aaron Ekblad (Barrie Colts, 1st overall – 2011)
Steven Stamkos (Sarnia Sting, 1st overall – 2006)
John Tavares (Oshawa Generals, 1st overall – 2005)
Mitch Marner (London Knights, 19th overall – 2013)
Matthew Tkachuk (London Knights, 64th overall – 2013)
Jordan Binnington (Owen Sound Attack, 40th overall – 2009)

While only a select few players will hear their names called in the opening round, every draft class has the potential to produce future OHL stars, NHL Draft picks and professional hockey players. The 2026 OHL Priority Selection marks the beginning of that journey for the league's newest group of prospects.

FAQ

What time does the 2026 OHL Priority Selection start?

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection begins at 7:00 p.m. ET on Friday, June 12 with the opening round of the draft. The event resumes at 9:00 a.m. ET on Saturday, June 13 for Rounds 2-15.

Can I watch the 2026 OHL Priority Selection for free?

Yes! Fans can watch the 2026 OHL Priority Selection live through FloHockey's social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, and X. The draft will also be available on YourTV, with additional television coverage available through Rogers TV.

Where can I find live draft results?

Fans can follow every pick, trade and update through the OHL's official Draft Tracker, which will provide live results throughout all 15 rounds of the draft.

Who has the first overall pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection?

The Oshawa Generals currently hold the first overall selection in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.

How many rounds are in the OHL Draft?

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection consists of 15 rounds split across two days, with all 20 OHL clubs selecting eligible U16 players.

Where can I learn more about the prospects?

Fans can visit the OHL's Prospect Profiles page and Top 100 Consensus Rankings to learn more about the players expected to be selected throughout the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection will introduce the newest class of Ontario Hockey League players as clubs make selections that will shape the future of the league. Whether attending in person or following online, fans can stay up to date with every pick, trade and prospect story throughout draft weekend.

OHL Announces Rivalry Week Matchups, Key Dates for 2026-27

Joey Battaino — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:38:44 +0000

TORONTO — The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today revealed the matchups for its second annual Rivalry Week, along with several key dates on the 2026-27 regular-season calendar.

Running Oct. 21-25, Rivalry Week sends all 20 member 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 over the five-day stretch — once on each club's home ice — with bragging rights and early divisional positioning on the line.

RIVALRY WEEK

Wednesday, Oct. 21 London at Sarnia — 7:05 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 22 Owen Sound at Barrie — 7 p.m., Sudbury at North Bay — 7 p.m., Oshawa at Peterborough — 7:05 p.m., Windsor at Sault Ste. Marie — 7:07 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23 Brantford at Brampton — 7 p.m., Erie at Niagara — 7 p.m., Guelph at Kitchener — 7 p.m., Sarnia at London — 7 p.m., Ottawa at Kingston — 7:05 p.m., Peterborough at Oshawa — 7:05 p.m., Flint at Saginaw — 7:05 p.m., North Bay at Sudbury — 7:05 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24 Niagara at Erie — 6 p.m., Brampton at Brantford — 7 p.m., Saginaw at Flint — 7 p.m., Sault Ste. Marie at Windsor — 7:05 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 25 Barrie at Owen Sound — 2 p.m., Kitchener at Guelph — 2:07 p.m., Kingston at Ottawa — 3 p.m.

KEY DATES

Opening night — Thursday, Sept. 17: The 2026-27 season drops the puck in Peterborough, where the Petes host the Kingston Frontenacs in the league's first game of the campaign (7:05 p.m.).

Banner night in Kitchener — 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.).

Thanksgiving Monday — Oct. 12: Two matinees on the holiday Monday — Peterborough at North Bay (2 p.m.) and Saginaw at Windsor (2:05 p.m.).

Interleague play: The OHL and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League meet in four home-and-home crossover series. The eight QMJHL matchups are:

Val-d'Or at North Bay — Sun., Nov. 1, 2 p.m.
Rouyn-Noranda at Sudbury — Sun., Nov. 1, 2:05 p.m.
Ottawa at Gatineau — Fri., Nov. 20, 7 p.m.
Blainville-Boisbriand at Kingston — Sun., Nov. 22, 2:05 p.m.
Gatineau at Ottawa — Sun., Nov. 22, 3 p.m.
Kingston at Blainville-Boisbriand — Sun., Jan. 17, 3 p.m.
North Bay at Val-d'Or — Fri., Jan. 22, 7 p.m.
Sudbury at Rouyn-Noranda — Sun., Feb. 21, 4 p.m.

Holiday break: The regular season pauses following games on Dec. 20, with play resuming Dec. 28.

New Year's Eve — Dec. 31: An eight-game slate closes out 2026:

Brampton at North Bay — 1 p.m.
Oshawa at Peterborough — 2:05 p.m.
Saginaw at Windsor — 2:05 p.m.
Ottawa at Kingston — 3:05 p.m.
Sarnia at London — 4 p.m.
Brantford at Erie — 6 p.m.
Guelph at Niagara — 6 p.m.
Owen Sound at Barrie — 7:30 p.m.

New Year's Day — Jan. 1: Two games open 2027 — North Bay at Oshawa (2:05 p.m.) and Peterborough at Guelph (7:07 p.m.).

Trade & Overage Deadlines - January 7-10 (TBD): Two key dates on the OHL calendar, marking the final opportunity for clubs to complete trades and finalize their overage player rosters before the push toward the OHL Playoffs.

Busiest days: The schedule features two full 10-game slates — Friday, Nov. 20, and Family Day, Monday, Feb. 15.

Final day — Sunday, March 21: Five games close the regular season:

Sudbury at North Bay — 2 p.m.
Sarnia at Sault Ste. Marie — 2:07 p.m.
Peterborough at Ottawa — 3 p.m.
Guelph at Windsor — 4:05 p.m.
Kingston at Oshawa — 6:05 p.m.

The complete 2026-27 OHL regular-season schedule will be released Tuesday, June 16.

Ruck, Klepov, and Massé named finalists for the CHL’s 2025-26 Top Scorer Award

Joey Battaino — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:38:04 +0000

Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL), Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL), and Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the CHL Top Scorer Award, presented annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner will be announced and presented with the trophy during the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15, in downtown Toronto. Past recipients of the award include some of the CHL’s most decorated offensive talents, including Connor Bedard (Regina Pats / WHL), Wyatt Johnston (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Jason Robertson (Kingston Frontenacs/Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Patrick Kane (London Knights / OHL), Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), and Conor Garland (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL). Only two players — Crosby and Garland — have won the award more than once. WHL Nominee — Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers) 21G-87A, 108 PTS, +45 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season Medicine Hat Tigers forward Markus Ruck captured the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s top scorer after leading the league — 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 league-best 87 assists while posting a plus-45 rating in 68 games. His exceptional vision and playmaking ability made him one of the WHL’s most dynamic offensive players and a driving force behind a Medicine Hat team that led the league in goals, owned the WHL’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 (45G-59A), 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. For Markus, the scoring title placed him in elite company. He 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. The 6-foot, 167-pound centreman was held off the scoresheet just 12 times all season and recorded at least three points in a game on 11 occasions. His top performance came on February 24, 2026, when he collected five points (1G-4A) in a 10-4 victory over the Edmonton Oil Kings. He also produced two point streaks of at least 10 games, highlighted by a 13-game run from November 22 to December 30 in which he amassed 25 points (3G-22A). Ruck became the fourth player in Medicine Hat Tigers history to win the Bob Clarke Trophy, joining Linden Vey (2010-11) and Tom Lysiak, who won it in both 1971-72 and 1972-73. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect also became the ninth first-year NHL Draft-eligible player since 2000 to lead the CHL in scoring, joining a list that includes Michael Misa, Connor Bedard, Marco Rossi, Dylan Strome, Nicolas Petan, Patrick Kane, Sidney Crosby, and Pierre-Marc Bouchard. OHL Nominee — Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) 37G-60A, 97 PTS, +9 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Klepov captured the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s leading scorer after finishing the season with 97 points (37G-60A) in 67 games. He also earned the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s top-scoring right winger. The 17-year-old from Deerfield Beach, Florida, became the first rookie in his first two years of OHL eligibility to lead the league in scoring since Jack Valiquette did so with the 1973-74 Soo Greyhounds. He also became the first rookie to lead any CHL Member League in scoring since Patrick Kane did so with the London Knights in 2006-07. Since 2000, the only other rookie to accomplish that feat was Sidney Crosby with the Rimouski Océanic in 2003-04. Klepov carved out a unique place in Saginaw history as well. He became the second Spirit player in as many seasons to win the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy, following Michael Misa in 2024-25, and the first player in franchise history to capture the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy. His 37 goals tied Cole Perfetti’s franchise rookie record, while his 60 assists and 97 points established new Spirit rookie benchmarks. Klepov opened his OHL career with a six-game point streak, recording 13 points (7G-6A) over that span. He went on to register 26 multi-point games and recorded at least three points in a game 13 times, including a five-point performance (2G-3A) on October 4 against the Owen Sound Attack. A 2026 NHL Draft prospect, Klepov also represented the CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge and earned the Connor McDavid 97 Award as MVP of the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game after recording a goal and two assists. His combination of playmaking, finishing ability, and offensive consistency made him one of the OHL’s most dangerous players from start to finish. QMJHL Nominee – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens) 51G-51A, 102 PTS, +62 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season Named both QMJHL and CHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, Maxim Massé added another major accomplishment to his résumé by capturing the Jean-Béliveau Trophy as the QMJHL’s top scorer with 102 points in 63 games. In his fourth season with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, the Anaheim Ducks prospect reached the 50-goal plateau for the first time, finishing with career highs of 51 goals, 51 assists, and 102 points. His total put him six points ahead of Val-d’Or Foreurs forward Philippe Veilleux in the QMJHL scoring race. Massé also shared the CHL goal-scoring lead with Seattle Thunderbirds forward Cameron Schmidt and Blainville-Boisbriand Armada forward Justin Carbonneau, who also finished with 51 goals apiece. Massé and Schmidt were the only two players in the CHL to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks in 2025-26. Selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the third round, 66th overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, Massé continued to showcase the offensive skill, finishing ability, and playmaking touch that have made him one of the organization’s top prospects. A consistent offensive force throughout the season, Massé ranked sixth across the CHL in points per game at 1.62, the highest rate among players who appeared in more than 60 games. His breakout campaign firmly established him among the QMJHL’s elite players and one of the CHL’s most dangerous offensive threats.

Saginaw Spirit to host Flint Firebirds in 2026-2027 home opener

Joey Battaino — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 17:00:37 +0000

Saginaw, Mich. – The Ontario Hockey League announced Tuesday afternoon its slate of home opening dates for the 2026-2027 season. The Spirit will host their in-state rival Flint Firebirds on Saturday, September 19th at 7:05pm. It will be the first installment of the Coors Light I-75 Divide Cup, which celebrates its 11th season of competition. “On behalf of Dick Garber and Brandon Bordeaux, we look forward to welcoming our great fans back to the Dow Event Center for such a historic season,” said President and Managing Partner Craig Goslin. “This 25th anniversary of Spirit hockey will be a celebration of both the team’s history and of its great fanbase’s quarter century of unwavering support.” Further schedule information regarding the 25th season of Saginaw Spirit hockey will become available as the offseason continues. 2026-2027 season ticket information can be found by clicking here.

Spirit exchange OHL Priority Selection picks with Ottawa 67’s

Joey Battaino — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:00:05 +0000

Saginaw, Mich. - Spirit GM Dave Drinkill announced Tuesday morning that the team has completed a trade of draft picks with the Ottawa 67's. The conditions of the trade are as follows: To Saginaw:

8th Round Pick, 2026 OHL Priority Selection (LDN)

To Ottawa:

7th Round Pick, 2028 OHL Priority Selection (KIT)

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore takes place June 12th and 13th at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston, Ontario. All rounds will be streamed live on FloHockey and across FloHockey’s social media channels (YouTube, X and Facebook Live). Round 1 begins at 7:00pm on June 12th. Rounds 2-15 begin at 9:00am on June 13th.

Spirit select Hudson Leenders and Damon Stodola at 2026 U18 OHL Priority Selection

Joey Battaino — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 23:56:39 +0000

Saginaw, Mich. – The Saginaw Spirit added a pair of players in the U18 OHL Priority Selection on Monday night, left-wing Hudson Leenders (LEEN-durs) and defenseman Damon Stodola (sta-DOL-la). They are the 23rd and 24th players selected by the Spirit through the U18 OHL Priority Selection since its implementation in 2017. (LW) Hudson Leenders: Round 1, 6th Overall Leenders is a left-shot winger from Exeter, Ont. measuring 6’0, 180lbs. The 17-year-old spent the 2025-2026 season with the Elgin Middlesex Canucks U18 AAA team. He led the team in scoring in both the regular season (23G-25A—48P in 34 GP) and playoffs (5G-14A—19P in 12GP). After his U18 season, Leenders joined the Listowel Cyclones of the GOJHL for six games. “It’s an honor to be drafted by such a great organization like Saginaw,” said Leenders. “It is a really special time for me and my family and we’re excited for this opportunity we’ve been given.” Scouts have praised Leenders as a high-energy player with a quick and accurate release. He is comfortable taking pucks to the net and forcing his way into scoring opportunities. “Hudson took a huge jump this year leading his Elgin team to the ALLIANCE final,” said Director of Player Development Jordan Selinger. “He plays with a compete level and skillset that we covet, and we look forward to seeing him at development camp in a couple of weeks.” (D) Damon Stodola: Round 2, 26th Overall Stodola is a left-handed defenseman out of Etobicoke, Ont. standing in at 6’1, 160lbs. He spent this season with the Mississauga Rebels U18 team and recorded 18 points (4G-14A) in 32 games. Stodola also appeared in six games with the Milton Menace of the OJHL, recording an assist. He is regarded by scouts as a defenseman who isn’t afraid to jump into a rush and has the tools to transport pucks. “Damon was a guy we liked in his U16 year and saw in the GTHL Top Prospects game,” said Selinger. “He has grown a couple of inches since then and continued to progress throughout this season. He combines excellent skating ability with good hockey sense and brings a lot of attributes that we look for in our defensemen in Saginaw.” “I’m super excited and honored to be drafted by such a great organization,” said Stodola. “It was a surreal moment for my family and me. It’s nice knowing the hard work I’ve put in has paid off and I can’t wait to get started.” Next up for the Spirit is the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore in Kingston, Ontario. Round One begins at 7:00pm on Friday, June 12th, and rounds 2-15 on Saturday, June 13th, at 9:00am. All rounds of the Priority Selection will be broadcast live on Flo Hockey.

Spirit President & Managing Partner Craig Goslin to be inducted into Bay County Sports Hall of Fame

Joey Battaino — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:51:00 +0000

Bay City, Mich. - Spirit President and Managing Partner Craig Goslin was honored earlier this week as a part of the Bay County Sports Hall of Fame's induction class of 2026. Goslin grew up in Bay City and is a 1979 graduate of Bay City All Saints. Since 2002, Goslin has been a mainstay of the Spirit organization. He has twice been named the OHL Executive of the Year (2006, 2007), has served as the Chairman of the Board for the OHL Board of Governors, and represented OHL owners on the CHL Board of Directors. Goslin spearheaded the efforts of Saginaw's 2024 Memorial Cup bid, bringing junior hockey's most prestigious event to the region and generating approximately $37 million in overall economic impact for its local communities. Among the many charitable initiatives carried out by the Spirit over the past 25 seasons, Goslin was instrumental in the creation of the annual Shocks and Saves charity game, which has raised over $800,000 for heart health awareness and installed more than 250 AEDs around the Great Lakes Bay Region. The team's Hockey for the Homeless game has raised an additional $700,000 for the City Rescue Mission and Good Samaritan Youth Center since the event's creation. Goslin was one of seven individuals named to the Bay County Sports Hall of Fame's induction class of 2026, in addition to three local teams. He will be formally inducted to the Hall on November 8th, 2026, at the DoubleTree hotel and conference center in Bay City. Full article from Lee Thompson at MLive.com.

Nikita Klepov, Levi Harper named to OHL All-Star and All-Rookie Teams

Joey Battaino — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 20:00:50 +0000

Toronto, Ont. - The Ontario Hockey League announced Tuesday afternoon its All-Star and All-Rookie teams for the 2025-2026 season. Spirit right wing Nikita Klepov has been named to both the First All-Star Team and First All-Rookie Team, while defenseman Levi Harper was named to the First All-Rookie Team. This marks three consecutive seasons in which the Spirit have had a representative on the league’s First All-Star Team. Klepov led the OHL in points during his rookie season after posting 97 points (37G-60A) in 67 games. He earned the Eddie Powers Trophy as the league’s top scorer as well as the Emms Family Award as its Rookie of the Year. Klepov was also named Rookie of the Month three times this season, becoming the first player to achieve the feat since Marco Rossi of the Ottawa 67’s in 2018-2019. His point (97) and assist (60) totals are Spirit rookie records, and Klepov’s 37 goals tied the 2018-2019 output of rookie Cole Perfetti. The last player to earn First-Team All-Star and First All-Rookie recognition in the same season was Mikhail Sergachev with Windsor in 2015-16. Additionally, Klepov was a finalist for the Red Tilson Trophy as the league’s Most Outstanding Player. NHL Central Scouting has the right winger as the eighth-ranked North American Skater eligible for the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft. Levi Harper also set records in his rookie season, with 57 points (12G-45A) to establish a new high-water mark by a rookie Spirit defenseman. He led OHL rookie blueliners in scoring and finished third overall in the rookie scoring race. Harper became the third player in team history to win the Bobby Smith Trophy as the OHL’s Scholastic Player of the Year. He appeared in all 68 regular season games for the Spirit and recorded a goal and two assists in four postseason contests. Click here for the OHL’s full All-Star release. The Saginaw Spirit Hockey Club has provided family-friendly entertainment to the Great Lakes Bay Region for nearly a quarter century. Since 2002, the team has helped to develop hundreds of major junior hockey players on the ice, in the classroom, and in the community. More than 50 Spirit players, coaches, and staff have gone on to careers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Visit saginawspirit.com for more information.