Ontario Hockey League - Feed

Steelheads sign goaltender Neilan Johnson

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 19:08:46 +0000

BRAMPTON, ON – The Brampton Steelheads have announced the signing of their third-round pick in this year’s 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Neilan Johnson, to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

Johnson, a native of Severna Park, Maryland, became the first goaltender selected by the Brampton Steelheads in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection when the club chose him 51st overall in the third round. The 6-foot-3, 181-pound netminder was the fifth goaltender taken in the draft after an impressive season with Hotchkiss School in the USHS-Prep league, where he posted a 1.63 goals-against average and a .944 save percentage in 26 appearances.

He is also ranked 21st by Central Scouting among North American goalies for the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft.

Director of Goaltending, David Shantz, had this to say about Johnson, “Neilan is a big, athletic goalie who has the ability to be a difference maker for our organization. His maturity and leadership, coupled with his existing technical foundation, will serve him well as he transitions to the OHL. As an organization, we are excited to have Neilan as part of our team.”

Bulldogs sign defenceman Jet Kwajah

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:13:46 +0000

BRANTFORD, ONTARIO - Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Spencer Hyman announced the signing of recently acquired defenceman Jet Kwajah, from the Madison Capitols of the USHL, to an OHL Scholarship & Development Agreement. Kwajah, a Hamilton, ON product, was originally selected in the 6^th round, 104^th overall in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection Draft after being signed to a 1^st round tender in the USHL by the Madison Capitols. The offensively minded Kwajah entered the junior level from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 AAA program where he posted 3 goals & 20 assists for 23 points in 30 GTHL games in his draft season. The 6’0”/177 right-shot rearguard moved to the USHL for the 2024-25 season collecting 6 goals & 10 assists for 16 ponts in 41 games while skating to a plus-4 rating earning recognition on the USHL All-Rookie Team. Kwajah nearly doubled his output in the 2026-27 season collecting a team leading 7 goals from the blueline with 20 assists for 27 points over 55 games lead to Kwajah being on both the NHL Central Scouting Mid-Term and Final rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft. Kwajah currently holds a commitment to Penn State University which he shares in common with fellow Bulldogs newcomers Xavier Lieb & Owen DeGraff. Kwajah’s playing rights were acquired by the Bulldogs in a June 2^nd trade from the Owen Sound Attack. On his acquisition, Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Spencer Hyman was quoted; "We are thrilled to welcome Jet Kwajah to the Bulldogs organization. We believe Jet has the ability to be one of the premier offensive defencemen in the OHL immediately.” said Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Spencer Hyman. “He is an elite skater, an exceptional puck mover, and possesses a high-end shot that makes him a threat every time he touches the puck. What separates Jet is his offensive instincts and hockey sense, but he also has the ability to defend and impact the game in all three zones. Beyond his talent, he is a first-class person and one of the highest-character young men you will meet.”.

Drew Bannister returns to lead the Greyhounds

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:59:15 +0000

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON- The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club announced today that Drew Bannister has been named the club’s Head Coach effective July 1, 2026. Bannister returns to the Greyhounds on a three-year agreement, bringing with him one of the most accomplished resumes in franchise history as both a player and coach. For more than three decades, Bannister’s hockey journey has been intertwined with the Soo Greyhounds organization. As a player from 1990 to 1994, Bannister established himself as one of the club’s cornerstone defencemen during one of the most successful eras in franchise history. He helped lead the Greyhounds to consecutive Ontario Hockey League championships in 1991 and 1992 before capturing the Memorial Cup in 1993. Over 222 regular-season games in a Greyhound uniform, Bannister recorded 118 points while earning a reputation as a dependable leader on and off the ice. Following a successful 17-year professional playing career, Bannister returned to Sault Ste. Marie in 2015 as head coach and quickly re-established the Greyhounds among the Ontario Hockey League’s elite programs. Over three seasons behind the Greyhound bench, Bannister compiled an outstanding record of 136-50-13-5 while developing numerous players who would advance to professional hockey. His tenure culminated in a historic 2017-18 campaign when the Greyhounds posted a franchise-record 55-7-3-3 regular-season record, one of the finest seasons in OHL history. The remarkable season earned Bannister both the Matt Leyden Trophy as Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year and the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award as the top coach in the Canadian Hockey League. “Drew Bannister embodies what it means to be a Soo Greyhound,” said Tim Lukenda, President and Governor of the Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club. “His connection to this organization runs deep. He helped bring a Memorial Cup championship to our city as a player and later returned to build one of the most successful teams in franchise history as our head coach.” Kyle Raftis, General Manager of the Soo Greyhounds, added, “Beyond his accomplishments, Drew is an exceptional leader, teacher and developer of young talent. His experience at every level of the game, including the National Hockey League and internationally, will be invaluable to our players and our organization. We are thrilled to welcome Drew and his family back to Sault Ste. Marie.” Since leaving the Greyhounds in 2018, Bannister has continued to build an impressive coaching résumé in professional hockey. He advanced through the American Hockey League before earning the opportunity to serve as head coach of the National Hockey League’s St. Louis Blues. Most recently, Hockey Canada selected Bannister to lead Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team at the 2026 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship, further recognizing his standing as one of the country’s premier coaches and developers of young players. “Returning to the Soo Greyhounds is a tremendous honour,” said Bannister. “This organization has played an important role in my life from my days as a player through my first opportunity as a head coach. The Greyhounds have a proud tradition built on hard work, character and excellence, and I am excited to be back and help lead the next generation of players.” “The support of this community is unlike anywhere else in hockey. I look forward to reconnecting with our fans and working with our players as we pursue success on the ice and continue building young men who will be successful in hockey and in life.” The Greyhounds will formally introduce Bannister at a media availability to be announced at a later date.

67’s sign forward Colby Coombe

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:41:35 +0000

OTTAWA - The Ottawa 67’s announced today that forward Colby Coombe has signed an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the team.

“Colby led the Chicago Reapers with 35 goals last season, contributing to his team's success as they advanced to the USA Hockey U16 Nationals tournament,” says 67’s General Manager Jan Egert. “He is a competitive winger that can score off the rush, is strong on the puck and comfortable on the walls. We are happy that Colby chose to continue his development journey with the 67's."

A product of Shelby Township, MI, Coombe was selected 207th overall by Ottawa in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. In the 2025-26 season, he starred with the Chicago Reapers 16U AAA, where he recorded 35 goals and 33 assists for 68 points in 57 games. He also played in the US 16U Nationals, where he scored two goals and one assist for a total of three points in four games.

“I’m honoured and excited to sign with the Ottawa 67’s,” says Coombe. “I’m thankful to everyone who has helped me reach this point, and I look forward to getting started with the organization.”

Spirit sign top goaltender Brady Knowling

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:41:41 +0000

Saginaw, MI. – Spirit GM Dave Drinkill announced this past weekend that the organization has signed goaltender Brady Knowling (NO-ling) to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Knowling is the #1-ranked North American goalie on NHL Central Scouting’s list for the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft. “We’re extremely excited to welcome Brady and his family to the Saginaw Spirit,” said Drinkill. “Brady is an elite goaltender who has consistently proven himself at the highest levels of his position, especially in international play with high stakes. His talent, work ethic, and competitive nature make him a tremendous addition to our team. He is an equally impressive young man off the ice as well – a team-first player that is driven to do anything to help his teammates succeed. We are beyond thrilled to bring him into our organization today and look forward to seeing the impact Brady will have both on and off the ice.” Knowling, a dual US-Canadian citizen originally from Toronto, Ont., is a 6’5” left-hand catching goaltender. The Spirit selected Knowling with their third-round pick in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. “Ever since I first toured Saginaw, I loved the place and the staff,” said Knowling. “I’m happy it worked out and that I’m able to be here for what will be a fantastic year. I believe we are going to do something special this season and we have the team to do it – from goalies to skaters and staff.” Knowling has spent the last two seasons with the U.S. National Team Development Program. Last season, he posted a 15-13-3-1 record, 3.51 GAA and .883 SV% with the NTDP’s U-18 team. He also appeared in a game with the U-17 squad, with a 2.01 GAA and .946 SV%. “Brady brings a very strong pedigree as a goaltender to our team and strengthens our crease,” said goaltending coach Kevin Delamarter. “He brings great size, athleticism, and overall skill. I’m excited to help him continue to build on his abilities and overall development here in Saginaw.” Last summer, Knowling led Team USA’s U-18 team to a Hlinka Gretzky Cup gold medal with four wins, a 2.35 GAA and .914 SV%. He joined the Americans for the IIHF World Junior Championship in January of 2026 as well. Knowling won the inaugural game of this season’s CHL USA Prospects Challenge in Calgary, AB back on November 25th. His 42 saves backstopped Team USA to a 4-2 victory on the event’s opening night and he was named player of the game. At the 2024 OHL Cup, Knowling led the North York Rangers to an OHL Cup semi-final appearance with a 3-1-0 record. Knowling joins Dima Zhilkin (19th overall), Blake Barnes (107th overall), Brody Najim (110th overall), Tyler Martyniuk (117th overall), Liam Campbell (141st overall), Trevor Theuer (201st overall), and Kaden Sienko (261st overall) as the eighth player from the 2024 OHL Priority Selection to sign a Scholarship and Development Agreement with the team.

Sting Sign top pick Adrian Sgro

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:28:12 +0000

The Sarnia Sting are pleased to announce the signing of defenceman Adrian Sgro to a Standard Player Agreement. Selected fourth overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection just last week, Sgro was widely regarded as one of the top defencemen available in this year's draft class. The young left-shot defenceman stands six feet tall and weighs 185 pounds. A native of Alliston, Ontario, Sgro is coming off an impressive season with the Vaughan Kings U16 AAA program, where he served as team captain. In 33 games during the 2025-26 season, he recorded 10 goals and 21 assists while establishing himself as one of the premier defencemen in the Greater Toronto Hockey League. Sgro has been a member of the Vaughan Kings organization since the 2023-24 season. Known for his leadership, hockey sense, and all-around game, Sgro describes himself as a “complete hockey player with high hockey I.Q.,” qualities that align with the values emphasized by Sting scouting and hockey operations staff.

"When we selected Adrian fourth overall, we knew he was a player who would look incredible in Sting colours," said General Manager Dylan Seca. "He's a talented young defenceman with a high hockey IQ, strong leadership qualities, and a bright future ahead of him. Having Adrian signed is an exciting moment for our organization, and we're thrilled to officially welcome him to the Sting family."

Sgro becomes the first member of the Sting's 2026 Priority Selection class to commit to the organization as the club continues to build for the future.

OHL alumni crowned 2026 Calder Cup Champions with Toronto Marlies

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 17:19:49 +0000

For the second time in franchise history, the Toronto Marlies are Calder Cup champions. The Marlies captured the American Hockey League title on Friday night, defeating the Chicago Wolves 4-3 in Game 5 of the Calder Cup Finals on home ice in Toronto. Trailing 2-0 late in the first period, Toronto responded with four consecutive goals to take control of the contest. London Knights alumnus Landon Sim ignited the comeback with the Marlies' opening goal, while fellow Knights graduate Easton Cowan played a pivotal role, recording three assists during the middle frame. The championship marks the second straight year a Canadian club has claimed the Calder Cup, following the Abbotsford Canucks in 2025. For Cowan and Sim, the victory represents a third consecutive championship season. The pair previously helped London capture back-to-back J. Ross Robertson Cup championships in 2024 and 2025, as well as the 2025 Memorial Cup, before making the jump to the professional ranks. Toronto entered the postseason as the fourth seed in the North Division after posting a 36-26-5-5 regular-season record. The Marlies advanced through the Rochester Americans, division champion Laval Rocket, Cleveland Monsters and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins before defeating the Chicago Wolves in the Finals. OHL alumni crowned champions with the Marlies: Forwards: Easton Cowan (London Knights) Alex Nylander (Mississauga Steelheads) Landon Sim (London Knights) Michael Pezzetta (Sudbury Wolves, Sarnia Sting) Defenceman: Ben Danford (Oshawa Generals, Brantford Bulldogs) Dakota Mermis (London Knights, Oshawa Generals) Chas Sharpe (Mississauga Steelheads) Blake Smith (Oshawa Generals, Flint Firebirds) Goaltenders Ken Appleby (Oshawa Generals) Hockey Operations: * denotes OHL club as a player John Gruden – Head Coach (Hamilton Bulldogs) Mark Giordano – Assistant Coach (Owen Sound Attack*) Brie Donelson – Assistant Athletic Therapist (Guelph Storm) Nick Hornby – Assistant Equipment Manager (Niagara IceDogs) Nick Biamonte – Video Coach (Guelph Storm)

Alumnus Jeff Twohey inducted into Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 22:15:20 +0000

Earlier this month, Peterborough Petes, Oshawa Generals and Kingston Frontenacs alumnus Jeff Twohey was officially inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame. Born in Lindsay, Ont., Twohey has called Peterborough home for more than 40 years. He joined the Petes organization in 1980 as a part-time scout before transitioning into a trainer/scout role in 1983. Over the years, he worked his way through numerous positions, including marketing, Assistant General Manager and ultimately General Manager. During his time with the Petes, Twohey also served as a part-time scout with the Dallas Stars from 1979 to 1999, helping the organization capture the Stanley Cup in 1999. In Peterborough, he was part of OHL Championship-winning teams in 1989 and 1993 as Assistant General Manager, and again in 1996 and 2006 as General Manager. The Petes also made four Memorial Cup appearances during his tenure. As General Manager, Twohey guided the Petes to more than 600 victories. During that time, 54 players were selected in the NHL Draft, including nine first-round picks. He also contributed to the league through service on numerous OHL committees, including Priority Selection, Competition, Officiating, CHL Import Draft, Protected List, NCAA Issues, All-Star Selection and the CHL Canada-Russia Series Selection Committee. He additionally served as an OHA representative evaluating Canada's U18 and U20 national team prospects. Twohey's contributions to the game have been widely recognized. He received the Bill Long Award for Distinguished Service in 2006 and the OHL Milestone Award for 25 years of distinguished service in 2008. That same year, he was inducted into the Lindsay and District Sports Hall of Fame. After departing the Petes in 2010, Twohey spent two seasons with the NHL's Arizona Coyotes before returning to the OHL as General Manager of the Oshawa Generals. From 2012 to 2018, he served as Assistant Director of Amateur Scouting for the Coyotes, scouting more than 250 live games. In 2020, Twohey joined the Kingston Frontenacs as a senior advisor before moving into a scouting role with the Florida Panthers in 2021. He added two more Stanley Cup championships to his resume as a member of the Panthers organization in 2024 and 2025.

Spirit sign forward Kyler Lauder

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 22:00:44 +0000

Saginaw, MI – Spirit GM Dave Drinkill has announced the signing of forward Kyler Lauder to a Scholarship and Development Agreement. The Spirit took Lauder (LAW-durr) with their first selection of day two at the OHL Priority Selection. Lauder led the Central Ontario Wolves U16 AAA team with 69 points (35-34–69) in 32 games and played as an alternate captain. He is a left-shot forward standing at 5’9.75”, 156lbs, and was named the OMHA East’s Player of the Year. In the playoffs, Lauder added 16 points (7-9–16) in eight games. “I was a little nervous because the first day of the draft didn’t go my way, but things ended up okay, and I got to go to a great organization,” said Lauder. “It’s been a great ride so far, and I’m grateful to my parents for getting me to this point.” Bate signed alongside fellow draft pick Drew Bate, and Drinkill was enthusiastic about adding both players to the organization. “To have them here in Saginaw for the start of development camp and get them integrated with our returning players is huge,” he said. “I didn't think we'd be able to land both of them in the draft, so I'm really excited to have them here today, signing with us. These are players we truly believe can develop into professionals and achieve their dream of playing in the NHL.”

Spirit sign 2026 first-round selection Drew Bate

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 21:42:44 +0000

Saginaw, MI – Spirit GM Dave Drinkill has announced the signing of forward Drew Bate to a Scholarship and Development Agreement. From Union, Ont., Bate joins the Spirit from the London Jr. Knights U16 AAA program. Bate led his Jr. Knights team in ALLIANCE scoring with an impressive 72 points (34-38–72) in 27 games. He is a right-shot center standing at 5’10.25, 163lbs. He led London in postseason scoring as well, with 7-14–21 in just eight ALLIANCE playoff games, and 7-6–13 in six games at the OHL Cup. With the Jr. Knights, Bate was a champion at both the U15 (2025) and U16 (2026) levels. He was named the 2026 ALLIANCE Player of the Year this spring. “It’s great being here with my parents, I’m really looking forward to some great games and a lot of success in Saginaw,” said Bate. “I’m a very competitive guy, I like winning, we had a great year [with the London Jr. Knights], but I know the work starts now.” Bate signed alongside fellow draft pick Kyler Lauder, and Drinkill was enthusiastic about adding both players to the organization. “To have them here in Saginaw for the start of development camp and get them integrated with our returning players is huge,” he said. “I didn't think we'd be able to land both of them in the draft, so I'm really excited to have them here today signing with us. These are players we truly believe can develop into professionals and achieve their dream of playing in the NHL.”