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OHL Completes 2026 Priority Selection Presented by Real Canadian Superstore

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 21:27:50 +0000

KINGSTON - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today concluded the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore for North American players born predominantly in 2010. The annual Priority Selection returned to an in-person format for the first time since the year 2000, with Slush Puppie Place in Kingston providing the backdrop for one of the biggest days on the OHL calendar. The Priority Selection was held over two days, with Round 1 on Friday night before Rounds 2-15 were carried-out on Saturday. The event was produced and broadcast by YourTV, airing on networks across Ontario as well as online on FloHockey and the OHL's social media channels. A total of 301 players were selected in the 15-round process from 88 different programs. The selected players included 171 forwards, 95 defencemen, and 35 goaltenders. A total of 289 of the players chosen were 2010-born athletes, while eight were born in 2009 and four were born in 2008. The Oshawa Generals made the first overall pick after winning the 2026 OHL Priority Selection Draft Lottery, selecting 2010-born forward Kane Cloutier of the Vaughan Kings to open the proceedings. "Congratulations to the 301 players selected in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection," said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. "I want to thank the City of Kingston, Tourism Kingston, and the Kingston Frontenacs for being such tremendous hosts. Kingston welcomed our clubs, staff, scouts, fans, partners and our prospects with first-class hospitality and a genuine passion for the game, and that spirit was felt throughout the event. Bringing the entire OHL community together to celebrate the next generation of talented young players is one of the most rewarding days on our calendar, and the people of Kingston helped make it a memorable one. We are grateful for their partnership and making this return to an in-person format so tremendously successful." The Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) led the way with 84 selections. The Vaughan Kings and Toronto Marlboros topped the event list with 12 players each, followed by the Toronto Jr. Canadiens and Don Mills Flyers with 10 apiece, while the Mississauga Senators and Markham Majors each had eight. The Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) followed with 57 selections, led by the Quinte Red Devils with seven, with the Credit River Capitals, Niagara North Stars, and York-Simcoe Express each adding six. The Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario (ALLIANCE) had 32 players selected, led by the London Jr. Knights with 10, followed by the Huron-Perth Lakers with eight and the Brantford 99ers with six. Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO) saw 19 players chosen, led by the Eastern Ontario Wild with six and the Ottawa Valley Titans with five. The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) had four players selected, led by the Sudbury Wolves with three. An additional 21 players were selected from Canadian prep and academy programs, led by Upper Canada College with nine and Hill Academy with eight, while two prospects were chosen from Ontario-based junior teams. One player spent last season with a Canadian out-of-province AAA program. A total of 81 players were chosen from American-based teams, equalling last year's event record. Detroit Little Caesars led the way with 11 selections. Detroit HoneyBaked followed with seven, while Shattuck-St. Mary's Prep had seven and the Woodbridge Wolfpack had six. Special thanks goes out to Rinknet for their continued technical support in facilitating the OHL Priority Selection through their software, in addition to Powerplay Event Production Professionals for their expertise in making this year's return to an in-venue production such a big success.

Oshawa Generals Select Kane Cloutier with First Overall Pick of OHL Priority Selection

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:22:58 +0000

KINGSTON (Friday, June 12, 2026) - The Oshawa Generals selected forward Kane Cloutier with the first overall pick of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore on Friday at Slush Puppie Place. Generals legend John Tavares announced the selection from the podium as the OHL returned to an in-person draft model for the first time since 2000. Tavares was Oshawa's most recent first overall pick, joining the club as an exceptional status underage talent in 2005. "It's something I've worked very hard toward my whole minor hockey career and this is a dream that it's happened," said Cloutier following the announcement. "The City of Kingston did a great job here and I'd like to thank the OHL for putting on such a great event. It's truly an honour to go first overall, but going to such a great organization is even better." The son of former OHL goaltender, Memorial Cup champion and long-time pro Dan Cloutier, Kane Cloutier arrives in Oshawa as one of the most decorated prospects in this year's class. The Oakville, Ont., product spent the 2025-26 season with the GTHL's Vaughan Kings U16 AAA program, producing 58 points (32-26—58) over 33 games. After leading Vaughan to a GTHL championship, Cloutier added 11 points (6-5—11) over four games at the 2026 OHL Cup. Cloutier sees his name etched Jack Ferguson Award as a First Overall Pick in the OHL Priority Selection and follows Tavares and Tom McCarthy (1977) to become the third first overall pick in Generals franchise history. He is also the first GTHL-produced first overall selection since the Saginaw Spirit chose Michael Misa of the Mississauga Senators in 2022. The “Fergie” is presented annually to the player selected first overall in the Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection. The award recognizes the dedication and contributions made by Jack Ferguson during his 25-year association with the Ontario Hockey League, first as a scout with the Ottawa 67’s and followed by his appointment as head of the OHL’s Central Scouting Bureau in 1981 as its Director of Central Scouting. The 2026 OHL Priority Selection is being produced by YourTV and can be seen live across the province on local YourTV stations. Check local listings for details. Online, fans can watch the Priority Selection streaming on FloHockey, live on the OHL's YouTube channel as well as the League's social media accounts. For more information on the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore, click here.

2026 OHL Priority Selection First Round Recap

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 03:27:26 +0000

KINGSTON – Twenty players representing 12 different programs were selected in the opening round of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore on Friday night at Slush Puppie Place as the OHL made its return to an in-person Priority Selection for the first time since 2000. The Oshawa Generals opened the draft by selecting Vaughan Kings centreman Kane Cloutier with the first overall pick. Cloutier becomes the first GTHL player chosen first overall since Michael Misa was selected by the Saginaw Spirit in 2022. Detroit Little Caesars forward Colin Kennedy (Erie, 2nd overall) and Hill Academy forward Tanner Adams (Brampton, 3rd overall) rounded out the top three selections. The North Bay Battalion selected the first goaltender of the draft when they chose Don Mills Flyers netminder Owen Loftus 11th overall. Loftus becomes the first goaltender taken in the opening round since the Mississauga Steelheads selected Jack Ivankovic seventh overall in 2023. Two hometown products heard their names called in the first round, with London native Ryan Beaulieu going 14th overall to the London Knights and Barrie native Lucas Matheson being selected 17th overall by the Barrie Colts. Size was also on display throughout the opening round. The Guelph Storm selected 6-foot-6 defenceman Declan McNally seventh overall, while the host Kingston Frontenacs chose 6-foot-7 forward Logan Prud’homme with the 10th pick. All 20 OHL clubs made a first-round selection. The round featured eight players from the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), four from U.S.-based programs, three from Hockey Canada accredited sports schools, three from the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA), and two from the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario (ALLIANCE). The Vaughan Kings produced a first-round-best three selections, led by Cloutier's first overall selection and Jack Ferguson Award honour. Defenceman Adrian Sgro was chosen fourth overall by the Sarnia Sting, while forward Landon Roulston went 13th overall to the Peterborough Petes. A total of 11 forwards, eight defencemen and one goaltender were selected in the opening round. The evening featured several special guests including Oshawa Generals legend John Tavares who announced the first overall selection followed by 2026 Calder Trophy winner and Erie Otters graduate Matthew Schaefer to announce the second. Kingston product and NHL great Doug Gilmour announced the Kingston Frontenacs' 10th overall selection of Logan Prud'homme. 2026 OHL Priority Selection – First Round Selections: Click on the player's name to watch their profile video

Oshawa Generals – Kane Cloutier C (Vaughan Kings) | 6'0"
Erie Otters – Colin Kennedy C (Little Caesars) | 5'9"
Brampton Steelheads – Tanner Adams C (Hill Academy) | 6'0"
Sarnia Sting – Adrian Sgro LD (Vaughan Kings) | 5'11"
Sudbury Wolves – Kash Kwajah C (Toronto Jr. Canadiens) | 5’11”
Saginaw Spirit – Drew Bate – C (London Jr. Knights) | 5'10"
Guelph Storm – Declan McNally – LD (Don Mills Flyers) | 6'6"
Owen Sound Attack – Max Fransen RD (Upper Canada College) | 5'11"
Niagara IceDogs – Max Lappan – RD (Detroit HoneyBaked) | 6'1"
Kingston Frontenacs – Logan Prud'homme – C (Upper Canada College) | 6'7"
North Bay Battalion – Owen Loftus – G (Don Mills Flyers) | 6'1"
Soo Greyhounds – Jaden Licastro – LD (Toronto Marlboros) | 6'1"
Peterborough Petes – Landon Roulston – Landon Roulston, C (Vaughan Kings) | 6'1"
London Knights – Ryan Beaulieu – LD (London Jr. Knights) | 5'11"
Flint Firebirds – Chase Schulberger – RD (Woodbridge Wolfpack) | 6'1"
Windsor Spitfires – Lauchlan Whelan – C (Quinte Red Devils) | 5'11"
Barrie Colts – Lucas Matheson – LD (Barrie Jr. Colts) | 5'9"
Ottawa 67’s – Andrew Laurin – RW (Quinte Red Devils) | 6'1"
Kitchener Rangers – Braden Reilly – RW (Toronto Marlboros) | 5'11"
Brantford Bulldogs – Aiden Kelly – C (Little Caesars) | 5'11"

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection continues with Rounds 2-15 on Saturday in Kingston. Follow along on YourTV and live on FloHockey as well as the OHL's social media channels for continued coverage.

Twelve OHL alumni competing in 2026 Calder Cup Finals

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:03:38 +0000

A total of 12 Ontario Hockey League alumni are set to compete in the 2026 Calder Cup Final as the Toronto Marlies (Toronto Maple Leafs) face off against the Chicago Wolves (Carolina Hurricanes), with the championship series beginning Friday, June 12. The Marlies advanced to the final with a six-game series victory over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, who had previously upset the regular-season champion Hershey Bears. Toronto secured the series with a 2-1 overtime win, as former Mississauga Steelheads forward Alex Nylander scored the game-winning goal midway through the extra frame. https://twitter.com/TorontoMarlies/status/2063791357768908985 Meanwhile, former London Knights standout Easton Cowan has played a key role since joining the Marlies for their playoff run. Cowan enters the final riding a five-game point streak, recording six points (4-2–6) during that span. On the other side, the Wolves earned their berth by defeating the Colorado Eagles in a winner-take-all Game 7, claiming a 4-3 victory after twice facing elimination in the series. Former Barrie Colts and Saginaw Spirit forward Ryan Suzuki was named first star of the deciding game after contributing a goal and an assist. Suzuki currently ranks second on the Wolves in postseason scoring. https://twitter.com/FloHockey/status/2064182168314609866 The matchup also creates an opportunity for a rare organizational double championship. With both the Wolves and the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes competing for league titles, the Hurricanes organization could capture both the Stanley Cup and Calder Cup in the same season. The last NHL organization to accomplish the feat was the New Jersey Devils and their AHL affiliate, the Albany River Rats, in 1995. 12 OHL alumni competing in the 2026 Calder Cup Finals Toronto Marlies (8) Ben Danford (Oshawa Generals, Brantford Bulldogs) Dakota Mermis (London Knights, Oshawa Generals) Chas Sharpe (Mississauga Steelheads) Blake Smith (Oshawa Generals, Flint Firebirds) Easton Cowan (London Knights) Alex Nylander (Mississauga Steelheads) Michael Pezzetta (Sudbury Wolves, Sarnia Sting) Landon Sim (London Knights) Chicago Wolves (4) Ryan Suzuki (Barrie Colts & Saginaw Spirit) Bryce Montgomery (London Knights) Givani Smith (Barrie Colts, Guelph Storm, Kitchener Rangers) Evan Vierling (Flint Firebirds, Barrie Colts) For full coverage of the 2026 Calder Cup Final, visit theahl.com or FloHockey.

OHL Champions Education Through Ongoing Scholarship Support

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:30:09 +0000

TORONTO – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that 268 graduates used their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions during the 2025-26 academic year. OHL member teams have contributed more than $42 million to the OHL Scholarship Program since 2010.

OHL graduates continued to compete at the game's highest levels this past season, with 148 skating in U SPORTS men's hockey and 78 opening the campaign on NCAA Division I rosters. An additional 18 accessed their OHL Scholarship while playing professionally.

Centrally administered through the OHL Office, OHL Scholarships are funded by OHL member teams. Every player who plays in the OHL is eligible to receive an OHL Scholarship. The OHL graduate can use their scholarship toward an undergraduate degree or diploma at any post-secondary institution worldwide or toward approved career-advancement programs.

In addition to alumni accessing their OHL Scholarship following graduation from the League, all current OHL players are encouraged to enrol in post-secondary courses with costs fully covered by OHL member teams. Team investment in scholarships accessed by current OHL players was more than $530,000 during the 2025-26 season.

"The OHL Scholarship Program has long been a hallmark of what the league is all about," said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. "Players have the opportunity to grow their game in the number one development league in the world, but that's really just the beginning. The education of our players is something that the league and its teams take great pride in as we continue to send players to both the National Hockey League, U SPORTS men's hockey programs and new this past season, the NCAA men's hockey circuit. The OHL remains committed to developing well-rounded individuals on and off the ice."

This year, 193 of the 268 OHL Scholarship recipients are furthering their education at Canadian universities. A total of 133 are attending Ontario-based universities, with the University of Guelph leading all post-secondary institutions at 13 OHL graduates enrolled in full-time studies, while 11 are enrolled at each of Queen's University, Toronto Metropolitan University and the University of Ottawa. A total of 60 OHL graduates are attending universities in Eastern Canada, led by the University of New Brunswick with 15.

A total of 19 OHL Scholarship recipients are attending Ontario-based colleges, with Fanshawe, Humber, Lambton, Loyalist and St. Lawrence College each featuring two alumni.

The OHL also recognized its top academic performers from the 2025-26 season at the OHL Awards Ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto last week.

Saginaw Spirit defenceman Levi Harper captured the Bobby Smith Trophy as Scholastic Player of the Year, posting a 93.2 per cent average while completing his high school requirements a full year early.

Barrie Colts forward Brad Gardiner earned the Roger Neilson Memorial Award as the OHL's Top Academic Post-Secondary Student, recording a 90 per cent average through American Public University.

Guelph Storm forward Mark Pape was named winner of the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award as the League's Top Academic High School Student after finishing with a 98.8 per cent average in his Grade 10 studies.

About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League, which is the world's largest development hockey league with 61 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and the Western Hockey League (WHL). The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

IceDogs acquire overage forward Jared Langdon from Attack

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:02:38 +0000

The Niagara IceDogs have acquired overage forward Jared Langdon from the Owen Sound Attack in exchange for a ninth-round pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.

Langdon appeared in 23 games for the Attack during the 2025-26 campaign, recording four goals and three assists for seven points in his first OHL season. The native of St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, joined Owen Sound midway through the season after beginning the year with the BCHL's Blackfalds Bulldogs.

Prior to arriving in the OHL, Langdon produced 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points in 34 games with Blackfalds. Originally selected by Owen Sound in the fourth round, 74th overall, of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot, 194-pound forward brings a strong two-way game and valuable experience to Niagara's lineup.

When announcing Langdon's signing earlier this season, then Attack General Manager and now IceDogs General Manager Dale DeGray praised the veteran forward's ability to impact the game in all three zones.

“Jared brings a strong 200-foot game with the ability to play centre and win faceoffs,” said DeGray. “With the shortage of forwards and the ability to bring in players from the BCHL, this was a very easy decision for us having known Jared previously.”

The IceDogs believe Langdon's versatility and maturity will make him a valuable addition to their forward group as they continue shaping their roster for the upcoming season.

The trade gives Niagara an experienced overage forward capable of contributing in a variety of situations, while the Attack gain flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming OHL Priority Selection on Friday.

All confirmed trades can be found on our OHL Trade Window Tracker.

Firebirds sign Michigan native Cooper Williams

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:53:46 +0000

The Flint Firebirds have announced that the team has signed free-agent forward and Michigan native Cooper Williams to a Standard Player Agreement. “I am super excited for this year with the Firebirds,” Williams said. “I can’t wait to start this season. For me, nothing beats playing close to home as well. This should be an awesome year.” A native of Pinckney, MI., Williams split the 2025-26 season between the NAHL’s Bismarck Bobcats and the USHL’s Lincoln Stars. Over 37 games for Bismarck, he had 31 goals and 23 assists. He then tallied six goals and three assists in 22 games played for Lincoln and added two goals and two assists in seven postseason games. Prior to his time in junior hockey, Williams played for both the Compuware and Honeybaked AAA programs in Metro Detroit. He is committed to play NCAA hockey at Lake Superior State University. SCOUTING REPORT FROM HEAD SCOUT MIKE OLIVERIO:

“Cooper is a tenacious worker who is always hunting down and pursuing the opponent when his team does not have the puck. He has been able to produce consistently at every level he has played and adds to the team’s offensive production both directly and indirectly, giving another strong option for our coaching staff.”

IceDogs announce Scouting staff

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:22:23 +0000

NIAGARA, ONT. – Niagara IceDogs General Manager Dale DeGray has announced the club's scouting staff ahead of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, which begins Friday in Kingston.

Sean LaFortune has been named Director of Player Personnel, while Brian Teakle joins the organization as Director of Scouting.

Both LaFortune and Teakle arrive in Niagara after working alongside DeGray with the Owen Sound Attack, where they played key roles in hockey operations and player evaluation.

Returning to the IceDogs scouting staff are Dave Robertson, who will continue to oversee Hockey Eastern Ontario, and Greg Cappellero, who returns as the club's SCTA and U.S. scout.

Also joining Niagara's scouting department are Jim Rauth (ALLIANCE), Mike Battah (OMHA), and Noah Acciaccaferri (U18).

DeGray and the IceDogs scouting staff will make their first selection on behalf of the organization at the 2026 OHL Priority Selection Presented by Real Canadian Superstore.

The 2026 OHL Priority Selection takes place June 12-13 at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston, Ontario.

Those unable to attend can follow the draft live at OntarioHockeyLeague.com. Coverage will also be available on FloHockey, YourTV, Rogers TV, and Eastlink community stations.

Spitfires sign Red Wings prospect Michal Svrcek

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:25:23 +0000

The Windsor Spitfires have announced the signing of forward Michal Svrcek to the club for the upcoming season. Svrcek, selected 53rd overall by the Spitfires in the 2025 CHL Import Draft, hails from Zilina, Slovakia. He stands 6’0” and weighs 191 lbs. Svrcek developed his game with Brynäs IF in Sweden, splitting time between the J20 and SHL teams. In the J20 league, he recorded 30 points in 30 games (14 goals, 16 assists) and appeared in 17 SHL games, tallying 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists). He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the fourth round, 119th overall, in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Following his CHL selection, Svrcek continued with Brynäs IF, posting 18 points (6 goals, 12 assists) in 11 J20 games. In the SHL, he appeared in 12 games before being loaned to Västeras IK of HockeyAllsvenskan, where he played 10 games. Internationally, Svrcek has represented Slovakia at the U18 World Championships, recording 2 goals and 2 assists in 7 games. This past season, he represented Team Slovakia at the World Junior Championships, contributing a goal and an assist in five games. The Slovakia native is excited to be joining the club. “It is super exciting, I am super happy and looking forward to it.” Svrcek said. Bill Bowler spoke on Svrcek putting pen to paper. “Svrcek is a world junior talent and will make an immediate impact with our club” GM Bill Bowler said. “We are excited to bring Michal to Windsor.”

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

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 15:46:11 +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.