Ontario Hockey League - Feed

IceDogs sign forward Michael Tang

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:44:56 +0000

NIAGARA, ONT - 2009-born forward Michael Tang has signed an OHL Standard Player Agreement and will lace up for the Niagara IceDogs in the upcoming 2026-2027 season. Tang was originally drafted by the IceDogs in the fourth round of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, 78th overall. He spent this past season with the Madison Capitals of the USHL, where he finished with 27 points (9G-19A) in 57 games. During this time, he also represented the United States in the U17 World Junior Championships. IceDogs General Manager Dale DeGray describes Tang as a “Smart, highly-skilled, crafty player that can play all three forward positions. He should fit in very nicely with the young group we will see in September.” Following his career with the IceDogs. Tang is committed to Harvard University in the NCAA.

OHL Announces 2026 Preseason Schedule

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:00:29 +0000

Preseason slate features cross-league play between the OHL, QMJHL and WHL. TORONTO — The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today released its 2026 preseason schedule, a 53-game slate running from Aug. 28 through Sept. 13 that will see all 20 member clubs tune up for the regular season with a mix of division rivalries, community showcases and rare cross-league matchups. The London Knights and Saginaw Spirit headline interleague action, with the former travelling west to face the Victoria Royals of the Western Hockey League in a home-and-home set at Victoria's Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Sept. 4 and 5 — a first-of-its-kind trip to Vancouver Island for the Knights' preseason slate. Meanwhile, the Spirit will head east for a three-game set against the Newfoundland Regiment of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League, with stops across the province at Gander's Steele Community Centre (Aug. 28), Grand Falls-Windsor's Windsor Stadium (Aug. 29) and the Corner Brook Civic Centre (Aug. 31). Rounding out the QMJHL crossover, the Sudbury Wolves will take-on the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies on Sept. 2 at McIntyre Arena in Timmins, Ont. Both the Barrie Colts and Kitchener Rangers will host multiple games in their respective venues, with the Colts, Brantford Bulldogs, Oshawa Generals and Owen Sound Attack all playing games at Sadlon Arena on Aug. 29-30. The Rangers will host the Erie Otters, Oshawa Generals and Saginaw Spirit for a quartet of action over Labour Day weekend. In total, 16 games will be played at non-OHL venues, part of the League's continued effort to bring exhibition hockey to communities across Ontario and beyond. Notable community stops include King City, Timmins, Watford, Arnprior, Cornwall, Fort Erie, Leamington, LaSalle, Elmira and Stouffville. On the ice, the Saginaw Spirit will play the most exhibition games of any club with seven, while seven teams — the Barrie Colts, Brantford Bulldogs, London Knights, Niagara IceDogs, Oshawa Generals, Owen Sound Attack and Sudbury Wolves — are slated for six games apiece. 2026 OHL Preseason Schedule Friday, August 28th Saginaw at Newfoundland (QMJHL), 7:00pm NT/5:30pm ET (Steele Community Centre, Gander, NL) Peterborough at Guelph, 7:00pm Erie at London, 7:00pm Saturday, August 29th Oshawa vs. Owen Sound, 1:00pm (Sadlon Arena, Barrie) Saginaw at Newfoundland (QMJHL), 4:00pm NT/2:30pm ET (Windsor Stadium, Grandfalls-Windsor, NL) Erie vs. London, 4:00pm (East Lambton Community Centre, Watford) Brantford at Barrie, 7:30pm Sunday, August 30th Oshawa vs. Brantford, 12:30pm (Sadlon Arena, Barrie) Ottawa at Kingston, 2:00pm Sarnia at Kitchener, 2:00pm North Bay at Brampton, 4:00pm Sault Ste. Marie at Windsor, 4:05pm Owen Sound at Barrie, 7:00pm Monday, August 31st Barrie vs. Sudbury, 6:30pm (Zancor Centre, King City) Saginaw at Newfoundland (QMJHL), 7:00pm NT/5:30pm ET (Corner Brook Civic Centre, Corner Brook, NL) Wednesday, September 2nd Brantford at Guelph, 6:30pm North Bay at Owen Sound, 7:00pm Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL) vs. Sudbury, 7:00pm (McIntyre Arena, Timmins) Thursday, September 3rd Oshawa at Niagara, 7:00pm Sarnia at Peterborough, 7:00pm Friday, September 4th Niagara at Brantford, 7:00pm Brampton at Guelph, 7:00pm Oshawa at Kitchener, 7:00pm Kingston vs. Ottawa, 7:00pm (Cornwall Civic Complex) London at Victoria (WHL), 7:05pm PT/10:05pm ET (Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, Victoria, BC) Sudbury at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07pm Saturday, September 5th Barrie at Owen Sound, 2:00pm Guelph at Brampton, 4:00pm Peterborough vs. Ottawa, 4:00pm (Bert Hall Arena, Arnprior) Erie vs. Saginaw, 4:00pm (Kitchener Memorial Auditorium) Windsor at Sault Ste. Marie, 4:00pm London at Victoria (WHL), 4:05pm PT/7:05pm PT (Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, Victoria, BC) Flint at Sarnia, 7:05pm Sunday, September 6th Erie at Kitchener, 2:00pm Brantford at Niagara, 2:00pm Sudbury at North Bay, 2:00pm Oshawa vs. Saginaw, 6:00pm (Kitchener Memorial Auditorium) Monday, September 7th Saginaw vs. Kitchener, 2:00pm (Woolwich Memorial Centre, Elmira) Thursday, September 10th Sarnia at London, 7:00pm Brampton at Owen Sound, 7:00pm Friday, September 11th Barrie at Brampton, 7:00pm Guelph at Brantford, 7:00pm Niagara vs. Erie, 7:00pm (Fort Erie Rec. Complex) Windsor vs. Flint, 7:00pm (Leamington Community Centre) Sault Ste. Marie at Sudbury, 7:05pm London at Sarnia, 7:05pm Saturday, September 12th Owen Sound at North Bay, 4:00pm Niagara at Peterborough, 7:00pm (Miskin Law Community Complex, Peterborough)* Flint vs. Windsor, 7:00pm (Vollmer Complex, LaSalle) Kitchener at Barrie, 7:30pm Sunday, September 13th Saginaw at Sault Ste. Marie, 2:07pm Kingston vs. Sudbury, 4:00pm (Stouffville Arena) Niagara at Oshawa, 4:05pm *- subject to change

2026 OHL Preseason Schedule (PDF)

Generals sign forward Grant Yingst

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:38:00 +0000

Oshawa, ON - The Oshawa Generals have signed free-agent forward Grant Yingst to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Last season, Yingst played for Shady Side Academy Prep in the USHS. Grant suited up in 64 games, collecting 114 points, including 51 goals. Yingst is 17 years old and a native of Pittsburgh, PA. He is a big body, listed at 6'2" and 203 pounds.

Bulldogs sign second selection Finn Ellery

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:59:59 +0000

BRANTFORD, ONTARIO - Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Spencer Hyman today announced the signing of 2026 2^nd round, 31^st overall selection, Finn Ellery from the Central Ontario Wolves U16 to an OHL Scholarship & Development Agreement. Ellery, from Bobcaygeon, ON, comes off a tremendous U16 season in the OMHA where the 6’5”/180 centerman posted 20 goals & 25 assists for 45 points over 31 regular season games while racking up a team leading 79 penalty minutes along with showing an impressive 200ft game and leadership skills as an assistant captain for the Central Ontario Wolves. It was in the OMHA playoffs where Ellery shone brightest, leading the Wolves in every major offensive category with 9 goals & 9 assists for 18 points across 10 games. Following his selection by the Bulldogs Assistant General Manager & Director of Scouting Mike Galati said: “Finn was a first round grade and we were very surprised to get him at 31. A big 6’5 Centre that can skate. Has a great stick and high end skill. Plays a heavy game and will finish every check. Brings size , compete, skill and heaviness instantly to our lineup. He brings everything we love in a player and we are very excited to make Finn a Bulldog.”.

2026 OHL In The System: Seattle Kraken

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:15:22 +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 look at the Seattle Kraken's OHL pipeline, a prospect pool featuring several current and former OHL standouts throughout the organization. Chase Reid (D) – Soo Greyhounds (2024-26) Selected: 1st Round, 7th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 84 GP, 25G, 63A, 88 PTS., +31 Age: 18 Selected seventh overall by Seattle in the 2026 NHL Draft, Chase Reid enjoyed a breakout sophomore season with the Soo Greyhounds. The 6-foot-2 defenceman from Chesterfield, Mich., produced a career-best 48 points (18-30–48) and a plus-28 rating in 45 regular-season games. Reid also represented the United States at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship and was named to the OHL First All-Star Team. Finn Kearns (D) – Sudbury Wolves (2025-26) Selected: 5th Round, 131st Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 15 GP, 0G, 1A, 1 PTS., -8 Age: 18 The Seattle Kraken added some muscle to the back end with the addition of 6-foot-3 Sudbury Wolves defenceman Finn Kearns. The Aurora, ON., native split 2025-26 between the Wolves and St. Andrew’s College, appearing in 15 OHL contests. In his 53 games at SAC, Kearns recorded 40 points (17-23–40) along with 163 penalty minutes. Rylan Singh (D) – Guelph Storm (2023-26) Selected: 7th Round, 198th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 159 GP, 8G, 55A, 63 PTS., -32 Age: 19 Selected in the seventh round by Seattle, Rylan Singh enjoyed another steady season on the Guelph blue line, recording 23 points (4-19–23) in 52 regular-season games. Jake O’Brien (C) – Brantford Bulldogs (2023-26) Selected: Round 1, 8th Overall (2025) Signed: Jul. 3, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 180 GP, 73G, 182A, 255 PTS, +36 Age: 19 Selected eighth overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Jake O’Brien earned his first professional recall this year, joining the Coachella Valley Firebirds for the Calder Cup Playoffs after captaining Brantford during a standout campaign. O’Brien continued to establish himself as one of the OHL’s premier offensive talents this season, recording a league-leading 1.75 points per game and 93 points (28-65–93) in 55 regular-season games before adding 23 more points during the playoffs. The Bulldogs’ career record-holder in assists (182) and points (255), he was a finalist for the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy. Nathan Villeneuve (C) – Sudbury Wolves (2022-26), Windsor Spitfires (2025-26) Selected: Round 2, 63rd Overall (2024) Signed: Apr. 8, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 219 GP, 90G, 115A, 205 PTS, -1 Age: 20 Acquired by the Spitfires at the January trade deadline, Nathan Villeneuve, the Wolves captain entering the 2025-26 campaign, recorded 63 points (21-42–63) in 51 regular-season games between Sudbury and Windsor. The former third overall pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Villeneuve finished second on the team in scoring and is expected to make his AHL debut with the Firebirds in the fall. Jakub Fibigr (D) – Mississauga/Brampton Steelheads (2023-25), Windsor Spitfires (2025-26) Selected: 6th Round, 202nd Overall (2024) OHL Career Stats: 175 GP, 20G, 96A, 116 PTS, +38 Age: 19 Czech blueliner Jakub Fibigr was acquired by the Spitfires at the January trade deadline and delivered an impressive third OHL season with 40 points (10-30–40) in 56 regular-season games between the two clubs, ranking third among Windsor defencemen. He was named an assistant captain for Team Czechia at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship and is committed to Ohio State University for the 2026-27 season. Eduard Šalé (LW) – Barrie Colts & Kitchener Rangers (2023-24) Selected: Round 1, 20th Overall (2023) Signed: Jul. 15, 2023 OHL Career Stats: 49 GP, 15G, 23A, 38 PTS, -2 Age: 21 Šalé spent his second full season with the Firebirds, posting a career-high 27 points (13-14–27) across 58 regular-season games. He also captained Team Czechia at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Carson Rehkopf (RW) – Kitchener Rangers (2021-24), Brampton Steelheads (2024-25) Selected: Round 2, 50th Overall (2023) Signed: Apr. 21, 2024 OHL Career Stats: 250 GP, 142G, 131A, 273 PTS, +17 Age: 21 In his first full season with the Firebirds, Carson Rehkopf recorded 19 points (13-6–19) in 69 regular-season games, finishing third on the team in rookie scoring. Andrei Loshko (C) – Niagara IceDogs (2024-25) Selected: 4th Round, 116th Overall (2023) Signed: Apr. 7, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 67 GP, 34G, 36A, 70 PTS., -18 Age: 21 After finishing his lone OHL season with the Niagara IceDogs, Andrei Loshko recorded 14 points (5-9–14) in 51 regular-season games during his rookie AHL campaign. David Goyette (RW) – Sudbury Wolves (2021-24) Selected: 2nd Round, 61st Overall (2022) Signed: Apr. 10, 2023 OHL Career Stats: 197 GP, 114G, 168A, 282 PTS, +17 Age: 22 The OHL’s leading scorer in 2023-24, David Goyette, finished his second full season with the Firebirds, where he tallied 10 points (3-7–10) in 51 regular-season games. Ty Nelson (D) – North Bay Battalion (2021-24) Selected: 3rd Round, 68th Overall (2022) Signed: May. 11, 2023 OHL Career Stats: 187 GP, 49G, 130A, 179 PTS, +56 Age: 22 Former first overall OHL Priority Selection pick Ty Nelson built on a strong rookie AHL campaign, recording a career-high 35 points (11-24–35) in 63 regular-season games while finishing second among Firebirds defencemen in scoring. J.R. Avon (LW) – Peterborough Petes (2019-23) Signed: Jul. 1, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 179 GP, 62G, 139A, 179 PTS, +6 Age: 23 J.R. Avon spent the 2025-26 season with the Firebirds, recording a career-high 24 points (10-14–24) in the regular season before adding eight points (7-1–8) in 12 Calder Cup Playoff games. His seven playoff goals tied for the team lead. He recently signed a one-year, two-way contract extension for the 2026-27 season. Ville Ottavainen (D) – Kitchener Rangers (2019-20) Selected: 4th Round, 99th Overall (2021) Signed: Mar. 20, 2023 OHL Career Stats: 53 GP, 4G, 11A, 15 PTS, +2 Age: 23 Ville Ottavainen has appeared in one game with the Kraken since being selected 99th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. Last season, the Finnish defender appeared in 53 games with the Firebirds, tallying 17 points (3-14–17) and ranking third among the club's defencemen. Logan Morrison (C) – Hamilton Bulldogs (2018-23), Ottawa 67’s (2022-23) Signed: Jun. 18, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 222 GP, 111G, 162A, 273 PTS, +31 Age: 24 In his third full season with the Firebirds, Logan Morrison enjoyed a breakout season, recording a team-leading 61 points (29-32–61) in 68 regular-season games. He recently signed a one-year, two-way contract extension starting in the 2026-27 season. Tomorrow on OHL In The System: We'll take a look at the OHL talent inside the Winnipeg Jets organization.

Erie Otters sign defenceman Broden McArthur

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:27:34 +0000

Erie, Pennsylvania - It has been a very busy offseason already in the Flagship City and the Otters have made another move to solidify their blue line. General Manager Dave Brown and Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve announced today that defenseman Broden McArthur has been signed to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. McArthur, a native of San Antonio, was selected by the Otters in the fifth round of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, 99th overall. "I couldn't be more excited to be joining one of the premier organizations in the Canadian Hockey League," McArthur said. "From the moment the opportunity to become part of the Erie Otters organization presented itself, I knew it was the right fit for my development." The 6'0, 2009-born defenseman spent last season with the United States National Team Development Program, where with his U17 team in league play he posted 13 (3G+10A) points in 55 games. In 37 USHL games with the USNTDP, he collected seven points (2G+7A). McArthur is committed to the University of Minnesota where he hopes to make an impact following his time in the OHL. He is noted as a dynamic defenseman with the ability to make plays offensively and can really shine on the power play. An excellent skater who is quick to turn defense into attack, McArthur is an exciting player who will look to make a big impact for the Otters. Otters' General Manager Dave Brown spoke with excitement about the addition of McArthur and what he will bring to the organization. "We at the Otters organization are excited to secure Broden, a multifaceted defender excelling across the board and fitting exactly into our strategic vision," Brown said. "Broden commands opponents' respect and launches counter-attacks powered by his hockey IQ , skating ability and skill set. Broden fits the organization perfectly, and we are thrilled by his unwavering commitment. Otters fans will unquestionably be captivated by his relentless play, backed by an elite skill set. The organization thrives on days like this and I am unequivocally pleased to add a player of Broden's caliber." Otters Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve spoke on McArthur joining the club and what he brings to the Flagship City. "We are extremely excited to be welcoming Broden and the McArthur family to the Otters," Grieve said. "Broden is a very highly regarded defenseman in his age group, and is a player we have had significant interest in dating back to his OHL draft season. Broden is a two-way puck-moving defenseman who can contribute offensively. We are thrilled he and his family have chosen to continue his development both on and off the ice in Erie. We cannot wait to see Broden in an Otters uniform for the 2026/27 season."

2026 OHL In The System: Toronto Maple Leafs

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:29 +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 look at the Toronto Maple Leafs' OHL connections within their prospect pool, including several players who helped the Toronto Marlies capture the 2026 Calder Cup championship. Alexander Bilecki (D) – Kitchener Rangers (2024-26) Selected: 2nd Round, 60th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 111 GP, 12G, 31A, 43 PTS., +20 Age: 18 Selected 60th overall by Toronto in the 2026 NHL Draft, Alexander Bilecki established himself as a dependable top-four defenceman on Kitchener's Memorial Cup championship team. The hometown product is known for his strong puck-moving ability and confidence carrying the puck through the neutral zone. He doubled his offensive production in 2025-26, recording 29 points (9-20–29) in 66 regular-season games before adding three assists during Kitchener's championship run. Brody Pepoy (RW) – Saginaw Spirit (2025-26) Selected: 6th Round, 165th Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 67 GP, 16G, 13A, 29 PTS., -17 Age: 18 Selected in the sixth round of the 2026 NHL Draft, Brody Pepoy enjoyed a strong rookie season with the Saginaw Spirit, recording 29 points (16-13–29) in 67 games. The hardworking winger is committed to Lindenwood University for the 2026-27 season. Tyler Hopkins (C) – Kingston Frontenacs (2023-26), (Guelph Storm, 2025-26) Selected: 3rd Round, 86th Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 182 GP, 51G, 63A, 114 PTS, -22 Age: 19 Acquired by the Guelph Storm at the end of December, Tyler Hopkins led the Kingston Frontenacs in scoring at the time of the trade. Between Kingston and Guelph, the 6-foot-1 forward finished one point shy of his career high, recording 50 points (25-25–50) in 56 regular-season games. He also served as an alternate captain for both clubs. Harry Nansi (RW) – Owen Sound Attack (2023-26) Selected: 5th Round, 153rd Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 175 GP, 20G, 68A, 88 PTS, -36 Age: 19 In his third season with the Owen Sound Attack, Harry Nansi recorded a career-high 56 points (13-43–56), including a team-leading 43 assists, across 67 regular-season games. Rylan Fellinger (D) – Flint Firebirds (2023-26) Selected: 6th Round, 186th Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 187 GP, 6G, 21A, 27 PTS, +6 Age: 19 More than doubling his offensive production from the previous season, Rylan Fellinger recorded 16 points (3-13–16) and a plus-25 rating in 65 regular-season games. Ben Danford (D) – Oshawa Generals (2022-26), Brantford Bulldogs (2025-26) Selected: 1st Round, 31st Overall (2024) Signed: Aug. 2, 2024 OHL Career Stats: 233 GP, 13G, 86A, 99 PTS, +30 Age: 20 Ben Danford enjoyed a memorable season after being acquired by the Brantford Bulldogs early in the year. The 6-foot-2 defenceman recorded a combined 20 points (3-17–20), represented Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, and joined the Marlies during the third round of the Calder Cup Playoffs, helping Toronto capture the 2026 Calder Cup. Sam McCue (LW) – Peterborough Petes (2022-24), Owen Sound Attack (2023-25), Flint Firebirds (2024-25), Brantford Bulldogs (2025-26), Ottawa 67’s (2025-26) Selected: 7th Round, 216th Overall (2024) OHL Career Stats: 209 GP, 76G, 49A, 125 PTS, +17 Age: 20 Acquired by the Barber Poles in December, Sam McCue joined Ottawa after beginning the season with the Brantford Bulldogs, where he recorded 16 points (10-6–16) in 25 games. He went on to contribute 15 points (7-8–15) with the 67’s, highlighted by a Michigan-style goal in April. The Sudbury, ON., native is committed to Bowling Green State University for the 2026-27 season. Landon Sim (LW) – London Knights (2021-25) Signed: Apr. 14, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 213 GP, 66G, 58A, 124 PTS, +49 Age: 21 Capping off his OHL career with a Memorial Cup championship alongside the London Knights in 2025, Landon Sim recently signed a two-year contract extension with Toronto after originally joining the organization last summer. In his rookie professional season, Sim split time between the Marlies and the ECHL's Cincinnati Cyclones. He appeared in 12 Calder Cup Playoff games, recording three points, including a goal in the championship-clinching game. Blake Smith (D) – Oshawa Generals (2021-23), Flint Firebirds (2022-25) Signed: April 11, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 244 GP, 13 G, 41 A, 54 PTS, +5 Age: 21 In his first full season with the Marlies, Blake Smith continued to provide a physical presence on the blue line, recording 110 penalty minutes and nine points (1-8–9) in 62 regular-season games. The 6-foot-5 defenceman also scored a goal in his lone playoff appearance. Semyon Der-Arguchintsev (C) – Peterborough Petes (2016-20) Selected: 3rd Round, 76th Overall (2018) OHL Career Stats: 248 GP, 38 G, 163 A, 201 PTS, -33 Age: 25 Semyon Der-Arguchintsev returned to Russia ahead of the 2023-24 season and has since become a regular with Traktor Chelyabinsk of the KHL. He recorded 23 points (2-21–23) in 33 games during the 2025-26 campaign. Tomorrow on OHL In The System: We'll take a look at the OHL talent inside the Seattle Kraken organization.

Bulldogs name Mike Lysyj as Associate Coach

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:40:57 +0000

BRANTFORD, ONTARIO. Brantford Bulldogs President of Hockey Operations Spencer Hyman & Head Coach Michael Babcock today announced the hiring of Mike Lysyj as Associate Coach. Lysyj, from Hillsborough, NJ, brings experience at each of the collegiate, junior and professional ranks to Brantford. Beginning his coaching career in the 2014, Lysyj spent 4 seasons as an assistant coach at SUNY-Fredonia before moving to RPI as an assistant coach for the 2018-19 season. Lysyj moved to the Canadian junior ranks for the first time in the 2019-20 season, serving as an assistant coach for the WHL’s Everett Silvertips. Returning stateside in 2020, Lysyj took on the role as assistant coach for the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers. Lysyj’s first stay in the USHL earned him his first nod as a head coach with the NAHL’s Corpus Christi IceRays. Lysyj moved back to the USHL ranks in the 2022-23 season serving as assistant & then associate head coach with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders for three seasons. Lysyj’s talents were brought to the professional level for the 2025-26 season as he joined the ECHL bench of the Iowa Heartlanders as associate head coach, earning tremendous reviews from his players at every stop. Lysyj’s coaching experience is influcened from his playing experience that saw the Bulldogs new associate coach suit up for a pair of impactful American programs, first the New Jersey Rockets and then the South Shore Kings. The New Jersey native used his hockey talents as part of a four-year run with SUNY-Courtland where he earned a Bachelor’s Degeree in Kineseology followed by a Master’s in Sports Management while coaching at SUNY-Fredonia. Lysyj skated at the pro level for Peoria Rivermen and Mississippi Surge of SPHL and the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL. “Mike’s experiences throughout all walks of junior hockey, topped with his experience in pro, made him an ideal fit.” Said Brantford Bulldogs Head Coach Michael Babcock. “The more we talked, the more excited Spencer and I became about the potential. Mike will do a fantastic job developing our defense and elevating the standard of our staff.”.

Colts sign forward Ben Lombardi

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:54 +0000

The Barrie Colts have announced that the club has signed forward Ben Lombardi to a standard Ontario Hockey League player agreement, adding another American prospect to the organization's growing pipeline south of the border.

Lombardi, a 5-foot-11, 194-pound forward who shoots right, joins the Colts out of Brunswick School in Greenwich, Connecticut, where he wrapped up his most recent season in the USHS-Prep ranks. Born March 24, 2008, the 18-year-old brings size, skill and a strong game to the Barrie lineup.

"Ben's someone our staff has liked for a while," said Colts General Manager Marty Williamson. "He's a competitive kid who's put together a strong body of work at Brunswick, and we think there's a lot of untapped upside in his game as he steps into the OHL."

Lombardi's move to Barrie also comes with a familiar face already in the room. He and Colts forward Joe Salandra grew up playing together within the Mid Fairfield Rangers program in Connecticut before both went on to star at Brunswick School — a shared background the organization expects will help ease Lombardi's transition into the Barrie dressing room.

A physical, north-south forward, Lombardi's game is centred on strong puck protection and a willingness to work the inside of the ice — traits that scouts believe should translate well to the pace and structure of Ontario Hockey League play.

2026 OHL In The System: New York Rangers

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:30:15 +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 New York Rangers and their developing talent across the OHL. Spencer Bowes (LW) – Ottawa 67’s (2024-26) Selected: 4th Round, 102nd Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 72 GP, 23G, 19A, 42 PTS., +30 Age: 18 Trading up to acquire the 102nd overall pick, the New York Rangers selected Ottawa 67's forward Spencer Bowes. In his rookie OHL season, the 6-foot winger recorded 42 points (23-19–42) and a plus-30 rating in 67 regular-season games. He is committed to Providence College for the 2027-28 season. Andre Mondoux (D) – Kingston Frontenacs (2024-26) Selected: 6th Round, 162nd Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 74 GP, 6G, 13A, 19 PTS., +19 Age: 19 The Rangers selected 6-foot-3 Kingston Frontenacs defenceman Andre Mondoux with the second pick of the sixth round. A former 14th-round OHL Priority Selection pick from North Bay, Mondoux persevered to become an important part of Kingston's blue line, producing 18 points (6-12–18) in 66 games during the 2025-26 season. Darian Anderson (RW) – Flint Firebirds (2025-26) Selected: 6th Round, 163rd Overall (2026) OHL Career Stats: 60 GP, 20G, 25A, 45 PTS., +17 Age: 19 With the second of back-to-back selections, the Rangers picked Flint Firebirds winger Darian Anderson. Another 2006-born player who took a significant step forward in 2025-26, Anderson produced 45 points (20-25–45) in 60 games during his first OHL season after arriving from the USHL's Lincoln Stars. He is committed to Clarkson University for the 2026-27 season. Malcolm Spence (LW) – Erie Otters (2022-25) Selected: 2nd Round, 43rd Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 195 GP, 67 G, 110 A, 177 PTS, -7 Age: 19 Following his three seasons with the Erie Otters, where he served as an assistant captain, Malcolm Spence spent the 2025-26 campaign at the University of Michigan, recording 25 points (10-15–25) in 40 regular-season games. Artem Gonchar (D) – Sudbury Wolves (2025-26) Selected: 3rd Round, 89th Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 65 GP, 15G, 36A, 51 PTS., -23 Age: 19 In his first OHL season, the Russian defenceman recorded 51 points (15-36–51) in 65 regular-season games after being selected in the first round of the 2025 CHL Import Draft by the Sudbury Wolves. Evan Passmore (D) – Barrie Colts (2023-26) Selected: 6th Round, 171st Overall (2025) OHL Career Stats: 181 GP, 6G, 19A, 25 PTS, +7 Age: 19 A 6-foot-4 right-shot defenceman, Evan Passmore wore an "A" with the Colts this past season, recording 10 points (3-7–10) in 66 regular-season games before adding three assists in the playoffs. Jacob Battaglia (LW) – Kingston Frontenacs (2022-26), Flint Firebirds (2025-26) Acquired: Mar. 6, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 265 GP, 104G, 126A, 230 PTS., -19 Age: 20 Acquired by the Rangers at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, Jacob Battaglia was traded twice during the 2025-26 season after first being dealt from the Kingston Frontenacs to the Flint Firebirds in January. The 6-foot-1 forward recorded a combined 48 points (26-22–48) in 64 regular-season games and is expected to make his AHL debut with the Hartford Wolf Pack this fall. Liam Greentree (LW) – Windsor Spitfires (2022-26) Acquired: Feb. 4, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 241 GP, 148G, 180A, 328 PTS., +61 Age: 20 Acquired by the Rangers in February as part of the trade that sent Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings, Liam Greentree joins the organization after completing an outstanding OHL career with the Windsor Spitfires. The captain finished his final junior season with 74 points (38-36–74) in 52 regular-season games and represented Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Cole Beaudoin (C) – Barrie Colts (2022-26) Acquired: Jul. 1, 2026 OHL Career Stats: 236 GP, 91G, 131A, 222 PTS., +42 Age: 20 Recently acquired from the Utah Mammoth, Cole Beaudoin captained the Barrie Colts in 2025-26, setting career highs with 33 goals, 55 assists and 88 points. Across the league, he ranked sixth in assists and tied for seventh in points. In the postseason, Beaudoin led the OHL in assists (19) and points (29). He also earned the CHL’s Sportsman of the Year and the OHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player. Internationally, he represented Team Canada at both the 2025 and 2026 IIHF World Junior Championships. Nathan Aspinall (LW) – Flint Firebirds (2022-25) Selected: 5th Round, 159th Overall (2024) Signed: Oct. 23, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 221 GP, 69G, 110A, 179 PTS, -5 Age: 20 Recording a breakout season while more than doubling his offensive production from the year before, captain Nathan Aspinall registered 94 points (33-61–94) in 65 regular-season games. His 61 assists set a new Firebirds franchise record, and his 94 points were the second-most in the OHL. The 6-foot-7 winger was also named a finalist for the Red Tilson Trophy and the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy. The OHL named him to the First All-Star Team, while the CHL named him to the Third All-Star Team. Carey Terrance (C) – Erie Otters (2021-25) Acquired: June 12, 2025 OHL Career Stats: 230 GP, 89 G, 73 A, 162 PTS, -49 Age: 20 Captain of the Erie Otters in 2024-25, Carey Terrance was acquired by the Rangers in an offseason trade with the Anaheim Ducks, bringing the New York native back to his home state. In his rookie season with the Hartford Wolf Pack, the Akwesasne, N.Y., native recorded 17 points (8-9–17) in 68 regular-season games. Dylan Roobroeck (C) – Niagara IceDogs (2021-22), Oshawa Generals (2022-23) Selected: 6th Round, 178th Overall (2023) Signed: May 20, 2024 OHL Career Stats: 200 GP, 49 G, 97 A, 146 PTS, +1 Age: 21 Completing his second full season with the Hartford Wolf Pack, Dylan Roobroeck recorded 26 points (11-15–26) in 72 regular-season games. The 6-foot-7 centre will look to earn his first NHL call-up this season. Bryce McConnell-Barker (C) – Soo Greyhounds (2021-24) Selected: 3rd Round, 97th Overall (2022) Signed: Mar. 23, 2023 OHL Career Stats: 188 GP, 75 G, 102 A, 177 PTS, +1 Age: 22 The former Soo Greyhounds captain completed his second full AHL season with Hartford. Bryce McConnell-Barker set career highs in all offensive categories, recording 25 points (14-11–25) in 69 regular-season games. Tomorrow on OHL In The System: We'll take a look at the OHL talent inside the Toronto Maple Leafs organization.