Futures Watch: Windsor Spitfires

As the 2025–26 OHL season approaches this September, the Windsor Spitfires are looking to build on their West Division-leading (45–17–4–2) record from last year. We spoke with GM Bill Bowler about the new faces fans should be keeping an eye on as the team prepares for the upcoming campaign.

 

Class Quote

“We’re excited about the talent in our incoming class. While we’ve lost longtime players like Noah Morneau and Ryan Abraham, each of whom played significant roles for us, their departure opens the door for the next wave to step in. We have a great contingent returning this season as we push for another West Division title. It’s always special to watch young players enter the league and grow into key pieces of our franchise’s future.”

– Bill Bowler

 

Player Spotlights:

John McLaughlin – C

Selected in the first round (21st overall) in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, John McLaughlin played for his hometown Lambton Jr Sting AAA program for the past three seasons. In the 2024-25, his season was cut short after an injury, he only played in two games but still managed to score two goals. He was called up by the Strathroy Rockets (GOJHL) and played in 1 game and had a goal and an assist.

“Johnny is a smart, competitive forward who plays with a lot of pace and poise. He’s got a strong hockey IQ — he sees the ice well, makes quick decisions, and consistently puts himself in the right spots. Offensively, he can create plays with his vision and touch. What stands out most is his compete level; he’s the type of player who elevates his teammates by working hard every shift. We’re excited to have him join the Windsor Spitfires and believe he has the tools to make an immediate impact in the OHL.”

Caden Harvey – C

Selected in the fifth round (102nd overall) in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Caden Harvey played for the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Team for the past two seasons. In the 2024-25, he recorded 95 points (41-54–95) in 53 games. He also appeared in four games with the USHL’s Waterloo Black Hawks, registering three points (2-1–3). Harvey is committed to Penn State University for the 2027-28 NCAA season.

“Caden is a dynamic forward who plays with speed, skill, and creativity. He can make plays at a high pace, whether it’s using his vision to set up teammates or finishing chances himself. He’s a player who thrives in offensive situations but also shows responsibility away from the puck, competing hard and playing a well-rounded game. Harvey comes from a strong program at Pittsburgh Penguins Elite, and we’re thrilled to add him to the Windsor Spitfires. He’s the type of player who can make an impact right away and continue to grow into a key piece of our lineup.”

Jonathan Brown – RD

Signed as a free agent in June 2025, Jonathan Brown played for the Shattuck St. Mary’s program for the past four seasons. In the 2024-25, he recorded 37 points (7-30–37) in 86 games over multiple competitions. Brown is committed to Yale University for the 2026-2027 NCAA season.

“Jonathan is a strong, two-way defenceman who brings a steady presence to the back end. He plays with confidence under pressure, makes a good first pass, and has the mobility to jump into the rush when the opportunity is there. Defensively, he’s tough to play against — he closes gaps quickly, uses his size effectively, and isn’t afraid to play with a physical edge. He’s a player who competes hard every shift and shows leadership qualities on and off the ice. Brown comes from a strong program at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, and we’re thrilled to add him to the Windsor Spitfires as he will be a key part of our blue line moving forward.”

 

2025-26 Windsor Spitfires Signings:

Includes players signed to an OHL Scholarship & Development Agreement who have played fewer than 10 games in the OHL.

PLAYER	POSITION	HOMETOWN	DOB	2024-25 TEAM	ACQUIRED
Max Brocklehurst	RW	Sackville, NS	12/30/2008	LaSalle Vipers	3rd Rd. 2024
Jonathan Brown	RD	London, GBR	03/09/2007	Shattuck St. Mary’s 18U Prep	June 6, 2025 (FA)
Caden Harvey	C	Beaver, PA	02/13/2008	Pittsburgh Penguins Elite 16U	5th Rd. 2025
Ian Inskip	C	L’Orignal, ON	02/05/2009	Reps Hockey Club U16 AAA	2nd Rd. 2025
Beksultan Makysh	LW	Astana, KAZ	05/24/2008	Boston Hockey Academy 16U AAA	2nd Rd. 2025
John McLaughlin	C	Corunna, ON	08/14/2009	Lambton Jr. Sting U16 AAA	1st Rd. 2025
Michael Newlove	G	Brampton, ON	01/14/2007	Georgetown Raiders	1st Rd. 2024 (U18)
Grady Spicer	LD	Brockville, ON	07/17/2008	Brockville Braves	4th Rd. 2024
Jake Windbiel	G	Elk Grove Village, IL	02/11/2008	LaSalle Vipers	7th Rd. 2024