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Futures Watch: Oshawa Generals 2026 Draft Class and New Faces

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 20:00:56 +0000

As the 2026-27 OHL season approaches, the Oshawa Generals are preparing to build on last year's campaign. We spoke with members of the organization about the club's 2026 draft class and the new faces fans should keep an eye on heading into the upcoming season 2026 Draft Class Revisit “We're extremely excited about this 2026 draft class. We feel we've added several high-impact players while laying the foundation for a future championship-calibre core.” Player Spotlights: Kane Cloutier (C) Selected: 1st Round, 1st Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 33 GP, 32G, 26A, 58 PTS Age: 16 Earning the Jack Ferguson Award as the first overall selection in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Kane Cloutier 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. 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. “We’re obviously ecstatic to snag the top player on our board. Cloutier is a high-end offensive player and explosive skater who is reliable in all three zones. He should be a future star in our league.” Jakub Kuklinski (LW) Selected: 2nd Round, 38th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 32 GP, 35G, 24A, 59 PTS Age: 16 The second selection for Oshawa in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Jakub Kuklinski was taken in the second round (38th overall) from the Mississauga Senators U16 AAA program. The winger from Caledon, ON recorded a GTHL-leading 35 goals in 32 regular-season games. “We were pleasantly surprised we were able to land Kuklinski in the second round after he led the GTHL in goals in the regular season. He has terrific hands and an explosive shot and is someone who should be a perfect complement to Cloutier eventually.” Deverin Warner (C) Selected: 4th Round, 70th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 32 GP, 35G, 24A, 59 PTS Age: 16 The third selection for Oshawa in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Deverin Warner was chosen in the fourth round (70th overall) from the Woodbridge Wolfpack Premier 15's program. The Roselle Park, N.J. native recorded 10 points (6-4–10) in 15 games before adding three points (2-1–3) at the USA Hockey 15O National Championships. The 5-foot-9 centreman is expected to suit up for the U.S. National Under-17 Team in 2026-27. “A high-skilled and dynamic playmaker with a great motor. He should come in and make an immediate impact as soon as 2027.” Matyas Michalek (D) Selected: 1st Round, 1st Overall (2026 CHL Import Draft) 2025-26 Stats: 30 GP, 13G, 26A, 39 PTS Age: 16 Marking the highest CHL Import Draft selection in franchise history, Matyas Michalek was selected first overall after a rule change made 2010-born players eligible to be selected in the first round. The 6-foot-3, 187-pound left-shot defenceman from Prague, Czechia, produced 39 points (13-26–39) in 30 games with Sparta Prague's U17 team last season before adding eight points (3-5–8) in 12 playoff games to help the club capture the Czech U17 championship. He also appeared in 18 games at the U20 level, recording eight points (1-7–8). Internationally, Michalek represented Czechia at both the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and the IIHF U18 World Championship, helping his country earn a bronze medal. “Easily our top-ranked player for the Import Draft. He has tremendous poise and skating ability and has the NHL tools as a 16-year-old. The sky is the limit for him.” Ethan Cava (C) Selected: 1st Round, 1st Overall (2026 U18 Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 42 GP, 14G, 26A, 40 PTS Age: 17 Taken first overall in the 2026 OHL Under-18 Priority Selection, Ethan Cava was one of just two players selected by Oshawa in the draft. The 6-foot-5 centreman comes from Thunder Bay's Seventh Fire Secondary School Prep Hockey Program and is the son of former Soo Greyhounds captain and Sarnia Sting forward Peter Cava. The 17-year-old recorded 40 points (14-26–40) in 42 games last season while also appearing in one game with the SIJHL champion Thunder Bay North Stars. “A big 6-foot-5 centreman that has soft hands and good vision. Real heady player who’s not afraid to go to the dirty areas of the ice.” Other members of the 2026 Draft Class:

PLAYER	POSITION	HOMETOWN	DOB	2025-26 TEAM	DRAFTED
Colten Sixsmith	LD	Burlington, ON	Jun 17, 2010	Burlington Eagles U16 AAA	6th round, 102nd overall
Liam Weaver	LD	Pinckney, MI	Mar 10, 2010	Detroit HoneyBaked 15's	6th round, 115th overall
Porter Matchett	LW	New York, NY	Dec 31, 2010	Woodbridge Wolfpack Premier 15's	7th round, 129th overall
Benjamin Legros	LW	Burlington, ON	Aug 14, 2010	Credit River Capitals U16 AAA	7th round, 140th overall
Ratmir Shalapayev	RW	Berkeley Heights, NJ	Oct 17, 2010	Team Illinois 15's	8th round, 142nd overall
Liam Nelson	RD	Oakville, ON	Feb 26, 2010	Vaughan Kings U16 AAA	9th round, 162nd overall
William LoSauro	C	Ridgewood, NJ	Jul 14, 2010	North Jersey Avalanche 16U	10th round, 195th overall
Braydon Cornacchia	C	Whitby, ON	May 9, 2010	Whitby Wildcats U16 AAA	11th round, 202nd overall
Lucas Mowat	RD	Dunnville, ON	Mar 24, 2010	Niagara North Stars U16 AAA	12th round, 222nd overall
Stephan Knight	RD	Troy, MI	Aug 14, 2010	Detroit Little Caesars 15's	14th round, 262nd overall
Noah Spiteri	G	Windsor, ON	Mar 25, 2010	BioSteel Sports Academy U16 AAA	15th round, 282nd overall
Nikolay Andreychenkov	LW	Richmond Hill, ON	Dec 19, 2009	Mississauga Reps U18 AAA	2nd round, 21st overall (U18)

2026 New Faces: *Note: Player additions are current as of publication. Team signings remain ongoing, and the OHL offseason trade window reopens on Tuesday, August 4 at 9:00 a.m. ET. This article will be updated accordingly as additional signings and roster moves are announced. “We have several new faces this year that all bring a little something different to our team. We expect an increase in offensive production while also being a much tougher team to play against in 2026.” Player Spotlights: Tyler Hinde (LW) Selected: 3rd Round, 46th Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 47 GP, 27G, 49A, 76 PTS Age: 17 Drafted in the third round (46th overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Tyler Hinde spent the 2025-26 season with the Mississauga Chargers, recording 76 points (27-49-76) in 47 games to earn OJHL Rookie of the Year honours. The Vaughan, Ont. native finished among the league's top 10 scorers while leading all 2009-born players in points, with the next closest player in his age group recording 48. Hinde made his OHL debut in January before scoring his first career goal the following month, appearing in 14 games with the Generals. “Played in 14 games last year, but won ‘Rookie of the Year’ in the OJHL after registering 27 goals, 49 assists, 76 points and 42 PIMs for the Mississauga Chargers. He has a tantalizing combination of size, speed and skill with a big upside.” Cole Mazzoni (LW) Selected: 9th Round, 177th Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 61 GP, 46G, 33A, 79 PTS Age: 17 Drafted in the ninth round (177th overall) in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Cole Mazzoni spent the majority of the 2025-26 season playing for the Oakland Jr. Grizzlies 16U AAA, where he collected 79 points (46-33–79) in 61 games. The six-foot-two forward from Livonia, Michigan, also spent time with the US National Development team, suiting up three times in the USHL. “Versatile forward with great size, physicality and athleticism. A true power forward who has a quick release and is very adept on the power play.” Cody Costello (RD) Selected: 11th Round, 217th Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 75 GP, 14G, 32A, 46 PTS Age: 17 Drafted in the eleventh round (217th overall) in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Cody Costello spent the 2025-26 season playing for the Woodbridge Wolfpack 16U AAA program. The 6-foot-2 defenceman recorded 46 points (14-32–46) in 75 games and is committed to the University of New Hampshire for the 2028-29 season. “Love his size, mobility and defensive prowess. He is a late-round gem with a great stick and high hockey IQ.” Ryan Hedley (C) Selected: 8th Round, 147th Overall (2023 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats: 52 GP, 15G, 36A, 51 PTS Age: 18 Drafted in the eighth round (147th overall) in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, Ryan Hedley spent the 2025-26 season playing for the Powell River Kings in the BCHL. The Raleigh, NC native collected 51 points (15-36–51) in 52 regular-season games. “Smart, reliable two-way forward who’s hard on pucks, has a great motor and can play anywhere in the lineup.” Grant Yingst (RW) Signed: Jul 7, 2026 2025-26 Stats: 64 GP, 51G, 63A, 114 PTS Age: 17 Signed by Oshawa as a free agent in July, Grant Yingst spent the 2025-26 season at Shady Side Academy Prep in the USHS, recording 114 points (51-63-114) in 64 games before adding 16 points (7-9-16) in just five games at the EP Cup Series 18U. The Pittsburgh, Pa. native stands 6-foot-2. “North-south type of player who plays a heavy, responsible game and wears down opponents. He has sneaky good skill and can play in all situations.” Mark Pape (LW) Acquired: Jun 10, 2026 2025-26 Stats: 46 GP, 3G, 4A, 7 PTS Age: 17 Acquired in an early offseason trade that sent veteran Owen Griffin to the Guelph Storm, Mark Pape completed his rookie OHL season after being selected 25th overall in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. He recorded seven points (3-4-7) in 46 games and was named the recipient of the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award as the OHL's Top Academic High School Student. Pape finished Grade 10 with a 98.8 percent average, including perfect marks in Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry, U.S. History, Fitness and Sport Management. “Mark is dynamic, skilled, aggressive and hard-working. He plays the game the right way, has a high ceiling and epitomizes what we are all about in Oshawa.” Cruz Reznik (G) Acquired: Jun 10, 2026 2025-26 Stats: 30 GP, 3.44 GAA, .894 SV%, 13-13-0-2-1 Age: 17 Also acquired in the early offseason trade that sent veteran Owen Griffin to the Guelph Storm, Cruz Reznik spent the 2025-26 season with the Ayr Centennials of the GOHL. The 6-foot-3 netminder appeared in 30 games, posting a 3.44 goals-against average, a .894 save percentage and one shutout. He made his OHL debut in December with the Storm and was selected as an alternate for the 2026 GOHL Top Prospects Game at OHL's Connor McDavid Top Prospects event. “Big, athletic goaltender with tremendous upside. He gained valuable experience starting in the GOHL last season.” Headlined by first overall selections Kane Cloutier, Ethan Cava and Matyas Michalek, along with experienced additions Tyler Hinde, Mark Pape and Cruz Reznik, the Generals have strengthened their roster through the draft, free agency and the trade market. As training camp approaches, the organization will get its first look at a group expected to play an important role in Oshawa's future. ________________________________________ FloHockey remains the exclusive streaming home of the Ontario Hockey League, delivering more than 680 regular-season games throughout the year, plus complete coverage of the OHL playoffs. Subscribers can stream games live or watch on demand from anywhere, ensuring they never miss a goal, save, or highlight during the 2026-27. Whether you’re following your hometown team or tracking prospects across the league, FloHockey provides comprehensive coverage of every OHL club all season long.

2026 OHL In The System: Carolina Hurricanes

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 15:45:05 +0000

This 32-part series will spotlight OHL players who are either signed to an NHL or AHL contract or are recently drafted, and are 25 years old or younger with 50 or fewer NHL games played. Join us for the final edition of OHL in the System! Today, we take a closer look at the Carolina Hurricanes’ prospect pool. Ryder Fetterolf (G) – Ottawa 67’s (2025-26) Selected: 4th Round, 125th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 41 GP, 2.07 GAA, .923 SV%, 29-9-2-1 Age: 18 The first OHL goaltender selected in the 2026 NHL Draft, Ryder Fetterolf signed with the Ottawa 67's as an undrafted free agent prior to the 2025-26 season and quickly emerged as one of the CHL's top netminders during a historic rookie campaign. The Sewickley, Pa., native led the CHL in both goals-against average and save percentage, while his six shutouts established a new OHL rookie record for a single season. Named 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 ever to win the award. He is committed to Penn State University for the 2026-27 season. Zachary Jovanovski (G) – Guelph Storm (2024-26) Selected: 6th Round, 165th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 71 GP, 3.48 GAA, .889 SV%, 31-30-4-3 Age: 18 The second OHL goaltender selected by the Hurricanes in the 2026 NHL Draft, Zachary Jovanovski appeared in 52 games with the Guelph Storm during the 2025-26 season, posting a 25-20-4 record, a 3.39 goals-against average and a .890 save percentage. The 6-foot-3 netminder is expected to backstop the Memorial Cup host Storm in 2026-27. Filip Ekberg (LW) – Ottawa 67’s (2024-26) Selected: 7th Round, 221st Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 112 GP, 40G, 51A, 91 PTS, +24 Age: 19 Completing another productive season with the Ottawa 67's, Filip Ekberg recorded 46 points (24-22–46) in 59 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign. The Uppsala, Sweden, native was recently named to Sweden's roster for the 2026 World Junior Summer Showcase. He also starred at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship, leading the tournament with 10 goals while recording 18 points in seven games. Bryce Montgomery (D) – London Knights (2019-23) Selected: 6th Round, 170th Overall (2021) OHL Career Stats: 84 GP, 2G, 6A, 8 PTS, +5 Age: 23 Defenceman Bryce Montgomery split the 2025-26 season between the AHL's Chicago Wolves and the ECHL's Greensboro Gargoyles, recording four assists in 24 AHL games while adding five points (1-4–5) in 28 ECHL contests. Evan Vierling (C) – Flint Firebirds (2018-20), Barrie Colts (2019-23) Signed: Jul. 4, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 218 GP, 75G, 138A, 213 PTS, -15 Age: 24 During his first full professional season after signing with Carolina in 2025, Evan Vierling led Chicago's rookies with 35 points (16-19–35) in 70 regular-season games before adding six points (1-5–6) en route to the Calder Cup finals. The Aurora, Ont., native also finished as the Wolves' least penalized full-time player with just 12 penalty minutes.

IceDogs sign 32nd overall selection Finn Merrill

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:50:22 +0000

NIAGARA, Ont. – Niagara IceDogs General Manager Dale DeGray announced today that forward Finn Merrill, selected 32nd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, has signed an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the club.

The 5-foot-10 forward from The Hill Academy recorded 89 points (48 goals, 41 assists) in 59 games during the 2025-26 season.

"Finn is a high-energy offensive forward who plays a very solid 200-foot game," said DeGray. "He has explosive speed and tremendous hockey sense and on-ice awareness. Add that to his tremendous compete level, and he's going to be an exciting player to watch in an IceDogs jersey."

Merrill recently represented Team Gold at Hockey Canada's under-17 development camp, where he scored a goal.

Known as a gifted goal-scorer, Merrill also plays high-level lacrosse during the summer, a sport that has helped develop his hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness and offensive creativity — skills that translate well to the ice.

Attack sign defenceman Caden Bell

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:04:23 +0000

OWEN SOUND, ON – The Owen Sound Attack announced that defenceman Caden Bell has signed an Ontario Hockey League Standard Player Scholarship and Development Agreement with the club. Bell was acquired by the Attack earlier this off-season in a trade with the Niagara IceDogs and officially joins the organization ahead of the 2026-27 OHL season. The 17-year-old Scarborough, Ontario native enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 season with the St. Catharines Falcons of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL), recording 11 goals and 29 assists for 40 points in 46 regular season games. Bell added 11 points in 16 playoff games as the Falcons advanced to the Sutherland Cup Championship Series. His 40-point campaign ranked among the league's top rookie defencemen, earning him selection to the GOHL Eastern Conference All-Rookie Team, while also representing the league at the MacPherson Challenge Tournament and participating in the GOHL Top Prospects Game during the OHL's Connor McDavid Top Prospects event. “It’s an absolute honour to officially sign with the Owen Sound Attack. I’ve always dreamed of playing at this level, and can’t wait to hit the ice, work hard for this team, and play in front of such an incredible fan base in Owen Sound,” said Bell. “I’ve been lucky enough to be part of some great programs in the past, and I hope to bring that team-first mentality here. I know this organization has a strong winning culture, and I want to do whatever it takes to contribute and help us succeed. I’m extremely grateful to the management, coaches, and my family for this opportunity, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got to the team.” Attack President and General Manager Tyler Nother says Bell's development over the past season made him a player the organization was eager to bring into the fold. "We are incredibly excited to welcome Caden Bell and his family to the Owen Sound Attack Organization,” said Nother. “Caden is coming off of a strong development season with the St. Catharines Falcons of the GOHL, where he played significant minutes as a first-year player during the Falcons' playoff run. Caden's ability to play in transition, provide offence from the backend, and quickly close out plays makes him a strong addition to both our group this season and for the future. We are looking forward to seeing Caden in an Attack jersey and assisting in his development in the coming years." Fans will get their first look at Bell at training camp in late August and will wear the number 8.

2026 OHL In The System: Vegas Golden Knights

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 15:45:44 +0000

This 32-part series will spotlight OHL players who are either signed to an NHL or AHL contract or are recently drafted, and are 25 years old or younger with 50 or fewer NHL games played. Join us for OHL in the System! Today, we take a closer look at the Vegas Golden Knights’ prospect pool. Ben Wilmott (C) – London Knights (2025-26), Barrie Colts (2025-26) Selected: 3rd Round, 92nd Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 66 GP, 27G, 39A, 66 PTS, +30 Age: 19 Following a mid-season trade from the London Knights to the Barrie Colts, Ben Wilmott quickly became a key contributor during Barrie's run to the Eastern Conference championship. The 19-year-old recorded 22 points (11-11–22) in 20 playoff games with the Colts. Matthew Minchak (G) – Kingston Frontenacs (2025-26) Selected: 6th Round, 191st Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 30 GP, 2.91 GAA, .910 SV%, 12-12-2-1 Age: 19 Selected by the Vegas Golden Knights in the sixth round (191st overall) of the 2026 NHL Draft, Matthew Minchak emerged as a dependable option for the Kingston Frontenacs after signing with the club as a free agent prior to the 2025-26 season. Trent Swick (LW) – Kitchener Rangers (2021-25) Selected: 6th Round, 180th Overall (2024) OHL Career Stats: 203 GP, 65G, 82A, 147 PTS, +26 Age: 22 During his rookie professional season with the ECHL's Tahoe Knight Monsters, Trent Swick recorded 50 points (25-25–50) in 67 regular-season games. The 6-foot-6 forward is expected to make his AHL debut in 2026-27. Arttu Karki (D) – Soo Greyhounds (2023-24) Selected: 3rd Round, 96th Overall (2023) OHL Career Stats: 59 GP, 21G, 24A, 45 PTS, +15 Age: 21 After his lone OHL season with the Soo Greyhounds, Arttu Karki returned to Finland, splitting the 2025-26 season between HIFK in Liiga and Jukurit U20. The 6-foot-2 defenceman recorded six points (2-4–6) in 12 regular-season Liiga games and is expected to remain in Finland for the 2026-27 season. Tuomas Uronen (RW) – Ottawa 67’s (2023-24), Kingston Frontenacs (2024-25) Selected: 6th Round, 192nd Overall (2023) Signed: May. 20, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 74 GP, 40G, 56A, 96 PTS, +32 Age: 21 After a successful sophomore OHL season, Tuomas Uronen began his professional career with the AHL's Henderson Silver Knights, recording 20 points (12-8–20) in 57 regular-season games. Matyas Sapovaliv (C) – Saginaw Spirit (2021-24) Selected: 2nd Round, 48th Overall (2022) OHL Career Stats: 183 GP, 64G, 106A, 170 PTS, +14 Age: 22 A Memorial Cup champion with the Saginaw Spirit, Matyas Sapovaliv enjoyed a career year during his second full professional season, recording 35 points (18-17–35) in 72 regular-season games with the Henderson Silver Knights. Bronson Ride (D) – Windsor Spitfires (2021-22), Niagara IceDogs (2022-23), North Bay Battalion (2023-26) Signed: Mar. 14, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 298 GP, 17G, 57A, 74 PTS, -22 Age: 21 After spending the past three seasons with the North Bay Battalion, Bronson Ride recorded career highs with 21 points (4-17–21) and a plus-11 rating during his overage season. Originally selected by the Windsor Spitfires in the second round (20th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, the 6-foot-7 defenceman recently signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Golden Knights. Samuel Mayer (D) – Peterborough Petes (2021-24), Ottawa 67’s (2023-24) Signed: May 9, 2024 OHL Career Stats: 205 GP, 41G, 97A, 138 PTS, +21 Age: 23 Samuel Mayer returned for his third professional season in the Golden Knights organization in 2025-26. The L'Orignal, Ont., native made his AHL debut with Henderson, appearing in four games, while also recording 33 points (12-21–33) and 95 penalty minutes in 59 ECHL games with the Tahoe Knight Monsters. He led Tahoe defencemen in scoring and finished tied for fourth among all ECHL blueliners. Tomorrow on the final edition of OHL In The System: We'll take a look at the OHL talent inside the Carolina Hurricanes organization.

Rangers sign import forward Roman Andreev

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 01:55:28 +0000

Kitchener, Ont. – The Kitchener Rangers announced today that the club has signed 2026 first-round CHL Import Draft selection (55th overall), Roman Andreev, to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. “Roman is a big scoring forward that is extremely skilled and has a high-end shot,” said General Manager, Mike McKenzie. “He is a threat anytime he has the puck. We look forward to seeing him in a Ranger uniform.” Andreev (2010) is a six-foot-one, 201-pound forward from Moscow, Russia who has a knack for finding the back of the net. In 18 games at the Russia U16 level, Andreev produced 21 points, scoring 16 goals and adding five assists. He also impressed at the U18 level in a small sample size recording just under three points-per-game with 11 points (5G, 6A) in four games. Andreev represented Russia on the international stage with the U16 program featuring in four games while scoring six goals and one assist. At the Russia Cup (U16), Andreyev continued to produce scoring 16 times in 24 games, while adding 11 assists. New this season, CHL teams were permitted to draft 16-year old skaters in the Import Draft (Round 1 only). Andreev brings size and scoring ability to the Rangers’ forward group. He developed in the Dynamo Moskva program and is eligible for the 2028 NHL Draft. Andreev becomes just the seventh Russian-born skater to play for the Kitchener Rangers joining Alexei Lipanov (2018-19), Dimitrii Sergeev (2013-2016) who was selected in the first round (23rd overall) in the 2013 CHL Import Draft, Alexei Dostoinov (2007-2009), Maxim Sharifijanov (1999-00), Ruslan Akhmadulin (1999-00) who was selected in the first round (10th overall) in the 1999 CHL Import Draft, and Sergei Olympiev (1993-1995). Danny Zhilkin was born in Moscow, Russia, but plays international competitions under the nation of Canada.

Otters sign Red Wings prospect Luka Arkko

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:55:08 +0000

Erie, Pennsylvania - The Otters forward core just got a little bit bigger as they've inked the first of their two selections from the 2026 CHL Import Draft. General Manager Dave Brown and Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve announced today that the #65 overall pick in the 2026 CHL Import Draft Luka Arkko has been signed to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Arkko comes to the Otters with both professional and junior experience in his home country of Finland and was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the sixth round, #175 overall in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, making him the second Otter alongside Lucas Ambrosio to represent an NHL organization heading into the 2026-27 season. The native of Lahti, Finland spent last season split between the Pelicans U18 and U20 program, the bulk of his time coming with the latter. In a combined 46 games between the two programs, Arkko collected 33 points (17G+16A). The 6'3 2008-born forward also spent time with the Finnish National Team, where with their U18 program in 14 games he picked up 11 points (6G+5A). Otters' Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve spoke on the addition of Arkko and what he will bring to the table in 2026-27. "We are very excited to officially sign Luka to a Standard Player Agreement," Grieve said. "We believe Luka will fit very well into our forward group with his size and ability to make others around him better. The Otters look forward to working with Luka on his development both on and off the ice." Arkko is expected to join the Otters for Main Camp in late August. The Erie Otters are thrilled to officially welcome Luka Arkko to the Flagship City and look forward to seeing what he can bring to the organization in the fall.

Summer Spotlight: Building something different in Owen Sound

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 22:15:11 +0000

For more than two decades, the Owen Sound Attack have been one of the Ontario Hockey League’s model community franchises, developing NHL talent while continuing to forge a deep connection with the Grey Bruce community. And this spring, the organization entered a new chapter. Following the sale of the franchise to Ecological Dynamics Sports Partners (EDSP) in May 2026, President and Governor Tyler Nother began leading a new era for the Attack – one centred on innovation, player development and long-term success. That vision took another significant step forward with the hiring of Keenan Reynolds as the franchise's new head coach. Less than a month later, Nother also assumed the role of General Manager, further aligning the organization's leadership under a shared vision. Together, the pair aren't simply looking to build a winning hockey team – they're building an organizational identity. Although both are among the younger leadership duos in the OHL, Nother and Reynolds don't see age as defining them. Instead, they point to a relationship built through hockey, education and a shared desire to challenge conventional thinking. The two were OHL players at the same time, with Nother skating for the London Knights before winning a Memorial Cup with the Windsor Spitfires in 2017 and Reynolds developing with the Attack and the Flint Firebirds. While neither believes they reached the heights they envisioned as players, both took advantage of the OHL’s education package and pursued business degrees. Nother completed his MBA at Queen’s University's Smith School of Business before Reynolds enrolled in the same program two years later. Professors and staff encouraged Reynolds to connect with Nother, believing the two shared similar passions for hockey, leadership and innovation. “Within my first week there, professors and staff kept telling me, ‘You have to meet this Tyler guy,”’ Reynolds recalled. What began as a networking conversation quickly evolved into a professional relationship and friendship, and now, years later, has become the foundation of a new direction in Owen Sound. For Nother, finding the right head coach wasn't simply about identifying the best bench boss. It was about finding someone whose philosophy aligned with the identity he envisioned for the organization. "I've always believed the relationship between the general manager and the head coach has to be completely aligned," Nother said. "You have to work hand in hand, communicate openly and be connected. That's the same way we want our team to play – we want to play connected hockey." At the heart of their vision is a player development philosophy known as ecological dynamics. While the term may sound complex, Reynolds insists the concept itself is simple. "Our goal is to put players in game-like situations every day," he explained. "We'll use five-on-five drills, small-area games and competitive environments where they have to solve problems on their own. That way, when they encounter those situations during a game, they're not asking themselves what to do – they've already experienced it hundreds of times." Instead of isolating skating, shooting or stickhandling in repetitive drills, Reynolds wants players learning in the same chaotic environments they'll face during games. "We want our players to flow like water," Reynolds said. "Water finds the easiest path and adapts to whatever is in front of it. We want our team to play the same way – without rigid, predetermined solutions, but by constantly reading and reacting." Reynolds believes it’s an approach that's already reshaping player development internationally. "Ecological dynamics has really been embraced overseas," he said. "European countries have made huge strides because they've focused on developing players in game environments. Meanwhile, I think North America has leaned heavily into the glitz and glamour of skill development. We're producing incredibly talented players, but I'm not sure hockey IQ and problem-solving have kept pace." For Reynolds, that's exactly where the Attack have an opportunity to be different. "We want to do things a little differently," he said. "If you simply copy everyone else, you can get lost in the mix. We'd rather take a calculated risk, follow what we believe in and try to be innovators." Ecological dynamics had long shaped the way Nother evaluated players throughout his time in scouting and player representation as well. It became a defining principle of his approach to player development and ultimately inspired the name of Ecological Dynamics Sports Partners (EDSP), the ownership group he co-founded. With this philosophy, Nother consistently gravitated toward players who embraced unpredictability rather than freezing when a play broke down. "We want connected players because we're a connected organization," Nother said. "Our staff has to make sure we're bringing in players our coaches are excited to work with – players who fit our system and the identity of how we want to play." To name a few from the Attack's 2026 Draft Class, he pointed to first-round pick Max Fransen’s ability to process the game under pressure, Matthew Zilinski’s pace and spatial awareness, and Jace Voortman’s dependable two-way game as examples of players who naturally fit the model the organization is building. “We'll be a very process-driven organization,” Reynolds said. “We don't pretend to have everything figured out, but we do know we're going to work extremely hard and do everything we can to give these players the best possible opportunity to develop – not just as hockey players, but as students and leaders.” Ultimately, both leaders believe success will be measured by much more than on-ice accolades. Nother hopes players leave the rink every day knowing they’re supported in every aspect of their development. “If, at the end of the season, our players come back and say, ‘That was the most fun I've ever had playing junior hockey. It was the best season I've ever had, and I loved coming to the rink every day,’ then I'll consider that a success,” he said. Reynolds shares that vision while believing it can lead to something even bigger. “I want us to be a team that genuinely cares about one another,” he said. “We want to play a style of hockey that inspires the people of Grey Bruce and brings the Owen Sound community together. “Ultimately, I believe we have the team to win an OHL championship. It’s going to be incredibly difficult, and it’s going to take everyone, but that's the standard we've set for ourselves.” For the Owen Sound Attack, this isn’t simply just about introducing a new coach or implementing a new philosophy. It’s about establishing a shared identity from the top down. One where ownership, management, coaches and players are united by the same vision. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, Nother and Reynolds believe that by creating the right environment and embracing a different way of thinking, success on the ice will have no choice but to follow.

IceDogs name new coaching staff led by Jake Grimes ahead of 2026-27 season

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 21:29:39 +0000

NIAGARA, ONT. – Niagara IceDogs General Manager Dale DeGray announced Wednesday the club's coaching staff for the 2026-27 Ontario Hockey League season, led by newly appointed head coach Jake Grimes. “Thank you to Dale DeGray for the opportunity, cannot wait to meet the players, staff and all of our fans across Dog Country this upcoming season,” states Grimes. Joining Grimes behind the bench are associate coach Dennis Martindale, assistant coach Jeff Wagner and returning goaltending coach Ryan Ludzik. "Jake Grimes is a coach who has had tremendous success throughout the years at various levels, including helping Saginaw win the Memorial Cup just two years ago," said DeGray. "He's a coach who knows what it takes to win while creating an environment where players want to come to the rink every day and commit to playing defence and winning hockey games. We feel very fortunate to bring a coach like Jake on board and look forward to watching him and the rest of the staff build this group. Welcome to the region." Grimes brings more than 30 years of coaching experience to Niagara. His coaching career began with the Dalhousie University Tigers in 1996 and has included stops with the Strathroy Rockets, London Nationals, Belleville Bulls, Peterborough Petes, Guelph Storm, Cape Breton Eagles, University of Waterloo Warriors, Saginaw Spirit and University of Guelph Gryphons. “I would like to thank every team that has welcomed me onto their bench… each one has played a pivotal role in my development and my coaching journey. I’m eternally grateful to every team, their staff, players and fans that helped get me to this point,” says Grimes. Internationally, Grimes represented Team Ontario at the Hockey Canada Under-17 World Hockey Challenge, winning three gold medals and one silver. His OHL résumé includes a J. Ross Robertson Cup championship with the Guelph Storm in 2019 and a Memorial Cup championship with the Saginaw Spirit in 2024. Before entering coaching, Grimes played three seasons in the OHL with the Belleville Bulls, recording 44 goals and 69 assists for 113 points in his final season with the club, while serving as an alternate captain during the 1992 season. Over his three year career with the Bulls, Grimes amassed a total of 206 points in 198 career games. He was twice voted the Eastern Conference's Best Defensive Forward and Best Checker in the OHL Coaches Poll. Originally drafted and signed by the Ottawa Senators, Grimes went on to play professionally in the American Hockey League, collecting 63 points in 118 games with the New Haven Senators and Prince Edward Island Senators before his playing career was cut short by injury. "This is a special day for me to be announced as head coach of the Niagara IceDogs," said Grimes. "I've been fortunate to spend 17 years coaching and three years playing in this great league. I've coached in seven conference finals and three Memorial Cup tournaments, and I'm grateful to have been part of the Guelph Storm's 2019 OHL championship team and the Saginaw Spirit's 2024 Memorial Cup championship. I've reached the conference finals with every OHL team I've coached, and I'm excited for the opportunity to begin this next chapter in Niagara." Grimes has also played a key role in player development throughout his coaching career, helping countless players advance to the National Hockey League, including P.K. Subban, Nick Suzuki and Michael Misa among many others. "A lot has gone into this opportunity. I love to coach, and I'm very excited to get started," Grimes said. "My wife and I will be relocating to the area in short order. We are ecstatic for this opportunity to be part of Dog Country." Martindale joins the IceDogs after four seasons with the Barrie Colts. Before that, he spent two seasons as an assistant coach with the Acadie-Bathurst Titan of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League and also gained coaching experience in Germany following a seven-year professional playing career in Europe. "I'm really excited about this group," said Martindale. "I'm going to bring my experience as best I can to help us have success. I've been fortunate to work with some outstanding players and coaches over the years, and I'm looking forward to getting started in Niagara." Wagner arrives after spending five seasons with the Coquitlam Express organization, where he held several coaching and management roles. He began his coaching career in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League before joining the Express in 2021 as associate coach. In 2022, he was also named the club's director of scouting while continuing his coaching responsibilities. Wagner became interim head coach on April 1, 2024, before taking over the role full time for the 2025-26 season, while also serving as assistant general manager. He has earned a reputation for player development, strategic leadership and strong hockey acumen. Ludzik returns for his second consecutive season as Niagara's goaltending coach after serving in the role during the 2025-26 campaign. He previously held the same position with the IceDogs from 2015-19 and has worked with the Brock Badgers men's and women's hockey programs, as well as the St. Catharines Falcons of the GOHL. “I’m excited to return to the IceDogs and be part of this new chapter. We have a great group in place, and I’m looking forward to continuing my work with the goalies,” says Ludzik. A former OHL goaltender with the Erie Otters, Windsor Spitfires and Niagara Falls Canucks, Ludzik also played professionally with the Bloomington PrairieThunder and Tulsa Oilers before transitioning into coaching. Throughout his coaching career, Ludzik has helped develop several professional goaltenders, including Connor Ungar, Alex Nedeljkovic and Dylan Wells. With an experienced coaching staff featuring a championship pedigree, player development expertise and more than 40 combined years of junior coaching experience, the IceDogs will begin preparations for the 2026-27 Ontario Hockey League season later this summer.

Eight OHL players highlight Canada’s roster for 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:01:11 +0000

TORONTO — Eight Ontario Hockey League players have been named to Canada's National Men's Summer Under-18 Team for the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Hockey Canada announced Friday. The annual tournament takes place from August 3-8 in Edmonton, Alberta.

The 22-player roster, trimmed from a 27-player training camp group, includes two goaltenders, seven defencemen and 13 forwards. The OHL contingent spans seven member clubs:

Defencemen

Matthew Henderson, Kingston Frontenacs
Cooper McAslan, London Knights

Forwards

Brock Chitaroni, Ottawa 67's
Ryerson Edgar, Niagara IceDogs
Aleks Kulemin, Kingston Frontenacs
Charlie Murata, Flint Firebirds
Cam Warren, North Bay Battalion
Jaakko Wycisk, Guelph Storm

North Bay Battalion head coach Ryan Oulahen leads the program behind the bench, while Windsor Spitfires equipment manager J.R. Grant and London Knights team physician Dr. Danielle Kelton round out the OHL presence on staff.

Canada closes out its pre-tournament schedule Saturday against Czechia at Rogers Place before opening the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup on Monday, Aug. 3, against Switzerland at 5 p.m. MT. The Canadians close out preliminary-round play against Slovakia (Aug. 4) and Sweden (Aug. 5) ahead of medal games Aug. 8 at Rogers Place and the Downtown Community Arena.

Canada is chasing a fourth gold medal in the past five years after winning in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and is looking to bounce back from a bronze-medal finish at last year's tournament in Brno, Czechia, and Trenčín, Slovakia.

For more information on Hockey Canada and the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along through social media on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.