Second Chances on Centre Stage: Four Players Revive Draft Hopes at the 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game
For four players selected to compete in the 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game, the event represents more than a showcase; it’s a second chance to prove themselves to NHL scouts. For new OHL players like Saginaw teammates Stepan Shurygin, Egor Barabanov and Kingston’s Matthew Minchak (Kingston), join Flint veteran Alex Kostov, in earning their invitations through standout seasons. All four were passed over in their original draft year – with Barabanov and Kostov passed over twice – and now re-enter the conversation ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft in June, determined to show their worth.
Alex Kostov (Flint Firebirds)
25 games into his fourth OHL season, Alex Kostov has recorded 35 points (18-17–35), highlighted by a nine-point performance in which he scored seven goals and added two assists across three victories during the week of November 3rd, and is now only eleven points away from beating his career-high 45 points from last season. He attended training camp with the Nashville Predators this past September and recently announced his commitment to Quinnipiac University for the 2026-27 NCAA season.
Egor Barabanov (Saginaw Spirit)
In his first year in the OHL after joining from the USHL as a free agent signing, Egor Barabanov has recorded over a point per game in his debut season, notching 35 points (13-22–35) in 29 games. He is currently riding a three-game point streak, during which he has recorded six points (3-3–6).
Matthew Minchak (Kingston Frontenacs)
Joining the OHL from the Pittsburgh Penguins U18 AAA Elite team as a free agent signing, Matthew Minchak has split the crease for the Kingston Frontenacs this season. Across 15 games, he’s posted a 5-7-2 record with a 2.33 GAA and a .928 save percentage, while earning OHL Goaltender of the Week honours for the week of November 3rd. He is currently committed to Colgate University for the 2026-27 NCAA season.
Stepan Shurygin (Saginaw Spirit)
Joining the OHL from the MHL league in Russia, Stepan Shurygin was drafted by the Saginaw Spirit in the second round of the 2025 CHL Import Draft. Over 25 starts this season, he holds an 8-11-5 record with a 3.70 GAA and a .890 save percentage. Currently, he leads the league in shots faced (808), saves (719), and minutes played (1,444).
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