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Oshawa Generals Select Kane Cloutier with First Overall Pick of 2026 OHL Priority Selection

Scott Vankoughnett — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:08:38 +0000

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

Carels, Reid, and Dagenais named finalists for CHL’s 2025-26 Top Draft Prospect Award

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:24:34 +0000

Carson Carels of the Prince George Cougars (WHL), Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL), and Maddox Dagenais of the Québec Remparts (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award presented by Kubota Canada, given annually to the top CHL player eligible for the upcoming NHL Draft. The recipient will be announced on Monday, June 15, during the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony in Toronto, Ont. Over the years, the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award has been won by many great players including Joe Thornton (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Vincent Lecavalier (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), Patrick Kane (London Knights / OHL), Steven Stamkos (Sarnia Sting / OHL), Connor McDavid (Erie Otters / OHL), Alexis Lafrenière (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), Connor Bedard (Regina Pats / WHL), Cayden Lindstrom (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), and most recently Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters / OHL). WHL Nominee — Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars) 20G-53A, 73 PTS, +23 in 58 GP during the 2025-26 season Ranked No. 3 among North American skaters on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2026 NHL Draft, Carson Carels continued to establish himself as one of the premier draft-eligible defencemen in the Canadian Hockey League. The 17-year-old from Cypress River, Man., was also named a finalist for the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy as WHL Defenceman of the Year after a standout season on the Prince George blue line. Carels recorded 73 points, including 20 goals and 53 assists, in 58 regular season games, the second-highest single-season point total by a defenceman in Cougars history. If selected, Carels would add another first to his standout season by becoming the first Prince George Cougars player to win the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award. His 73 points tied for fourth among all WHL blueliners, while he was one of only six WHL defencemen to reach the 20-goal mark. His season also featured a 17-game point streak, tied for the fourth-longest by any WHL player in 2025-26. A dynamic puck mover with strong skating ability and offensive creativity, the 6-foot-1, 175-pound left-shot defenceman played a key role in helping the Cougars remain among the WHL’s top teams. Carels also represented Team CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge and was named captain of Team West at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game, where he recorded four assists. Originally selected by Prince George in the first round, 16th overall, of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Carels has accumulated 111 points, including 26 goals and 85 assists, in 125 career WHL regular season games. OHL Nominee — Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds) 18G-30A, 48 PTS, +27 in 45 GP during the 2025-26 season Ranked No. 2 among North American skaters on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2026 NHL Draft, Chase Reid enters the draft as the highest-ranked current CHL skater. The 18-year-old defenceman from Chesterfield, Mich., enjoyed an outstanding season with the Soo Greyhounds, producing at better than a point-per-game pace with 48 points, including 18 goals and 30 assists, in 45 regular season games. He was also named a finalist for the Max Kaminsky Trophy, awarded annually to the OHL Defenceman of the Year. A win for Reid would give the Greyhounds their second CHL Top Draft Prospect Award recipient, following Joe Thornton, who captured the honour in 1996-97. Reid was the only first-year draft-eligible defenceman in the OHL — and one of just six across the CHL — to average at least a point per game during the 2025-26 season. Although he missed the final 17 games of the regular season due to injury, he made an impact upon returning, recording six points, including three goals and three assists, in 10 playoff games. A gifted skater with high-end offensive instincts and the ability to play significant minutes in all situations, Reid earned recognition in four categories in the annual OHL Coaches Poll. He was voted the Western Conference’s Best Offensive Defenceman while also receiving recognition for Best Skater, Best Shot, and Best Defensive Defenceman. Reid also represented Team CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge, where he scored once in two games, and represented the United States at the 2026 World Junior Championship, recording four points in five games. QMJHL Nominee — Maddox Dagenais (Québec Remparts) 30G-32A, 62 PTS, +/- NA in 62 GP during the 2025-26 season Ranked No. 15 among North American skaters on NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2026 NHL Draft, Maddox Dagenais continued his rise as one of the QMJHL’s premier young forwards during the 2025-26 season. The 6-foot-4, 196-pound centre from Montréal, Que., took a major step forward in his second season with the Québec Remparts, recording 62 points, including 30 goals and 32 assists, in 62 regular season games. After being limited by injury during his rookie campaign, Dagenais more than doubled his production from a year ago, when he finished with 26 points. Should Dagenais earn the award, he would become the first Québec Remparts player to be named the CHL’s Top Draft Prospect. Dagenais finished as Québec’s second-leading scorer while leading the Remparts with 10 power-play goals and 25 power-play points. His 273 shots on goal also ranked fourth in the QMJHL, further underlining his ability to generate chances and drive offence. Selected first overall in the 2024 QMJHL Entry Draft, Dagenais followed in the footsteps of his father, former NHL forward Pierre Dagenais, who was also a first-overall pick in the QMJHL. Throughout the season, Maddox showcased the size, skill, puck protection, and finishing ability that have made him one of the top prospects available for the 2026 NHL Draft. Dagenais also represented Team CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge, where he was one of four QMJHL players selected for the event and recorded one assist. He also stood out at the QMJHL Prospects Game, scoring in regulation before adding the shootout winner. His continued development has solidified his status as one of the most promising young power forwards in the Canadian Hockey League.

Finalists announced for 2026 CHL Awards ahead of June 15 ceremony in Toronto

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:17:18 +0000

Nineteen CHL clubs represented among 2026 finalists, led by historic seasons from Bryce Pickford, Tommy Bleyl, Nikita Klepov, and Maxim Massé

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce the finalists for its 10 major awards for the 2025-26 season, with the complete list of finalists available below. Winners will be honoured at the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony, taking place Monday, June 15, in downtown Toronto. The finalists for each CHL award are determined by the winners of the corresponding honours presented by the CHL’s three Member Leagues: the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Across the 30 finalist spots for this year’s 10 CHL awards, 19 different CHL clubs are represented, including seven from the WHL, six from the OHL, and six from the QMJHL — reflecting standout 2025-26 seasons from players, coaches, and organizations across the CHL. Four players enter the 2026 CHL Awards with multiple nominations after seasons that rewrote record books across the CHL. Bryce Pickford of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) is a finalist for both the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award and CHL Defenceman of the Year Award after scoring 45 goals — the most by a CHL defenceman in nearly 40 years. The Montreal Canadiens prospect is the first defenceman to be named a finalist for the CHL’s top individual honour since Ryan Ellis (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) in 2010-11. If selected, Pickford would become just the fifth defenceman to win the award and the first since Ellis. Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) is also nominated twice, earning finalist recognition for both CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL Defenceman of the Year after setting a new QMJHL record for points by a rookie defenceman with 81. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect also became just the second player in QMJHL history to win both the league’s Rookie of the Year and Defenceman of the Year honours in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL), who accomplished the feat in 2008-09. Should Bleyl capture both CHL awards, he would become the first player in CHL history to win CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL Defenceman of the Year in the same season. Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL) and Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) round out the group of multi-award finalists. Klepov, a 2026 NHL Draft prospect nominated for both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL Top Scorer Award, became the first rookie to lead a CHL Member League in scoring since Patrick Kane did so with the London Knights in 2006-07 — a feat achieved by only one other rookie since 2000, Sidney Crosby with the Rimouski Océanic in 2003-04. Massé, an Anaheim Ducks prospect and finalist for both the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award and CHL Top Scorer Award, captured the QMJHL scoring title with 102 points and was one of only two CHL players to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks this season. Some of the other compelling storylines to watch heading into the 2026 CHL Awards include:

Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers led the entire CHL with 108 points, while his twin brother Liam finished second with 104, making them the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season.
This year marks the first time in CHL history that all three Member League Rookie of the Year recipients are U.S.-born players, with JP Hurlbert of the Kamloops Blazers (WHL), Klepov (OHL), and Bleyl (QMJHL) all nominated for CHL Rookie of the Year.
Should Bleyl be named CHL Rookie of the Year, he would become just the fourth defenceman to receive the honour, joining Philippe Boucher (Granby Bisons / QMJHL, 1990-91), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL, 1994-95), and Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2024-25), who captured the award last season.
Massé, the CHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, could become just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Alex DeBrincat, Alexis Lafrenière, and Gavin McKenna.
Sam O’Reilly of the Kitchener Rangers enters the ceremony as a finalist for the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award following a remarkable campaign in which he was named OHL regular-season MVP, OHL Playoff MVP, and Memorial Cup MVP while leading Kitchener to a Memorial Cup title. Should he win the CHL’s top individual honour, the Tampa Bay Lightning prospect would join Brad Richards and Mitch Marner as the only players to capture CHL Player of the Year after completing that rare MVP sweep in the same season.
Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s is a finalist for CHL Goaltender of the Year after leading the CHL with a .923 save percentage, posting a CHL-best 2.07 goals-against average, and setting a new OHL rookie record with six shutouts. If selected, the 2026 NHL Draft prospect would become only the second rookie goaltender to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award — and the first in 31 years — following Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL) in 1994-95.
Steve Hamilton of the Everett Silvertips is nominated for the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award after guiding Everett to a franchise-record 57-win regular season, the first WHL Championship in club history, the Silvertips’ first Memorial Cup appearance, and their first Memorial Cup Final appearance.
Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders could help make CHL history, as an Islanders win would mark the first time a club has captured the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons. With Kearsey earning his second nomination for this CHL honour in the last three seasons, a Charlottetown Islanders player has now represented the QMJHL as a finalist for the award in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three.

Presented annually, the CHL Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of players from across the CHL, with 10 trophies presented based on individual performances. For more information on each award and its three finalists, please visit chl.ca/tag/chl-awards. David Branch Player of the Year Award Nominees: Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers / OHL), Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the player judged to be the most outstanding in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy (WHL Player of the Year), the Red Tilson Trophy (OHL Most Outstanding Player), and the Michel-Brière Trophy (QMJHL MVP). The trophy was renamed in 2019-20 in honour of David Branch, who was OHL Commissioner from 1979-2024 and served as CHL President from 1996-2019. Defenceman of the Year Award Nominees: Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL), Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Defenceman of the Year Award is given out annually to the top defenceman in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy (WHL Defenceman of the Year), the Max Kaminsky Trophy (OHL Defenceman of the Year), and the Émile-Bouchard Trophy (QMJHL Defenceman of the Year). Goaltender of the Year Award Nominees: Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL), Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Goaltender of the Year Award is given out annually to the top goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Del Wilson Memorial Trophy (WHL Goaltender of the Year), the Jim Rutherford Trophy (OHL Goaltender of the Year), and the Patrick-Roy Trophy (QMJHL Goaltender of the Year). Rookie of the Year Award Nominees: JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Rookie of the Year Award is given out annually to the top rookie in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy (WHL Rookie of the Year), the Emms Family Award (OHL Rookie of the Year), and the Sidney-Crosby Trophy (QMJHL Rookie of the Year). Top Scorer Award Nominees: Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Top Scorer Award is given out annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. It was first awarded in 1994. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Bob Clarke Trophy (WHL Top Scorer), the Eddie Powers Trophy (OHL Top Scorer), and the Jean-Béliveau Trophy (QMJHL Scoring Champion). Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award Nominees: Steve Hamilton (Everett Silvertips / WHL), Dave Cameron (Ottawa 67’s / OHL), Sylvain Favreau (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL) Named in recognition of former Ottawa 67’s head coach and CHL all-time wins leader Brian Kilrea, the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award is presented annually to one of the winners of the CHL’s Member League coaching honours: the Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy (WHL Coach of the Year), the Matt Leyden Trophy (OHL Coach of the Year), and the Ron-Lapointe Trophy (QMJHL Coach of the Year). Top Draft Prospect Award Nominees: Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Maddox Dagenais (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) The CHL Top Draft Prospect Award is presented annually to the top eligible prospect for the NHL Draft from the Canadian Hockey League. The award was first presented in 1991. Sportsman of the Year Award Nominees: Braeden Cootes (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL), Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Sportsman of the Year Award is given out annually to the most sportsmanlike player in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy (WHL Most Sportsmanlike Player), the William Hanley Trophy (OHL Most Sportsmanlike Player), and the David-Desharnais Trophy (QMJHL Most Sportsmanlike & Effective Player). Scholastic Player of the Year Award Nominees: Alex Weiermair (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Nathan Brisson (Val-d’Or Foreurs / QMJHL) The CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award is presented annually to a Canadian Hockey League player who is best able to combine success on the ice with success in the classroom. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Daryl K. “Doc” Seaman Memorial Trophy (WHL Scholastic Player of the Year), the Bobby Smith Trophy (OHL Scholastic Player of the Year), and the Marcel-Robert Trophy (QMJHL Scholastic Player of the Year). Humanitarian of the Year Award Nominees: Shane Smith (Kelowna Rockets / WHL), Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Marcus Kearsey (Charlottetown Islanders / QMJHL) The CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award is presented annually to the CHL player judged to have made the most notable contribution to his community. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy (WHL Humanitarian of the Year), the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy (OHL Humanitarian of the Year), and the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year Award.

Ruck, Klepov, and Massé named finalists for the CHL’s 2025-26 Top Scorer Award

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:15:24 +0000

Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL), Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL), and Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the CHL Top Scorer Award, presented annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner will be announced and presented with the trophy during the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15, in downtown Toronto. Past recipients of the award include some of the CHL’s most decorated offensive talents, including Connor Bedard (Regina Pats / WHL), Wyatt Johnston (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Jason Robertson (Kingston Frontenacs/Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Patrick Kane (London Knights / OHL), Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), and Conor Garland (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL). Only two players — Crosby and Garland — have won the award more than once. WHL Nominee — Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers) 21G-87A, 108 PTS, +45 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season Medicine Hat Tigers forward Markus Ruck captured the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s top scorer after leading the league — and the entire CHL — with 108 points during the 2025-26 season. The 18-year-old from Osoyoos, B.C., recorded 21 goals and a league-best 87 assists while posting a plus-45 rating in 68 games. His exceptional vision and playmaking ability made him one of the WHL’s most dynamic offensive players and a driving force behind a Medicine Hat team that led the league in goals, owned the WHL’s top power play, and finished atop the Central Division. Ruck’s twin brother, Liam, finished second in both the WHL and CHL scoring races with 104 points (45G-59A), making Markus and Liam the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season. They also became the first brothers ever to place 1-2 in scoring within a CHL Member League. For Markus, the scoring title placed him in elite company. He became the first Medicine Hat skater since Linden Vey in 2010-11 to lead the CHL in scoring and just the second Tigers player to win the CHL Top Scorer Award. The 6-foot, 167-pound centreman was held off the scoresheet just 12 times all season and recorded at least three points in a game on 11 occasions. His top performance came on February 24, 2026, when he collected five points (1G-4A) in a 10-4 victory over the Edmonton Oil Kings. He also produced two point streaks of at least 10 games, highlighted by a 13-game run from November 22 to December 30 in which he amassed 25 points (3G-22A). Ruck became the fourth player in Medicine Hat Tigers history to win the Bob Clarke Trophy, joining Linden Vey (2010-11) and Tom Lysiak, who won it in both 1971-72 and 1972-73. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect also became the ninth first-year NHL Draft-eligible player since 2000 to lead the CHL in scoring, joining a list that includes Michael Misa, Connor Bedard, Marco Rossi, Dylan Strome, Nicolas Petan, Patrick Kane, Sidney Crosby, and Pierre-Marc Bouchard. OHL Nominee — Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) 37G-60A, 97 PTS, +9 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Klepov captured the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s leading scorer after finishing the season with 97 points (37G-60A) in 67 games. He also earned the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s top-scoring right winger. The 17-year-old from Deerfield Beach, Florida, became the first rookie in his first two years of OHL eligibility to lead the league in scoring since Jack Valiquette did so with the 1973-74 Soo Greyhounds. He also became the first rookie to lead any CHL Member League in scoring since Patrick Kane did so with the London Knights in 2006-07. Since 2000, the only other rookie to accomplish that feat was Sidney Crosby with the Rimouski Océanic in 2003-04. Klepov carved out a unique place in Saginaw history as well. He became the second Spirit player in as many seasons to win the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy, following Michael Misa in 2024-25, and the first player in franchise history to capture the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy. His 37 goals tied Cole Perfetti’s franchise rookie record, while his 60 assists and 97 points established new Spirit rookie benchmarks. Klepov opened his OHL career with a six-game point streak, recording 13 points (7G-6A) over that span. He went on to register 26 multi-point games and recorded at least three points in a game 13 times, including a five-point performance (2G-3A) on October 4 against the Owen Sound Attack. A 2026 NHL Draft prospect, Klepov also represented the CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge and earned the Connor McDavid 97 Award as MVP of the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game after recording a goal and two assists. His combination of playmaking, finishing ability, and offensive consistency made him one of the OHL’s most dangerous players from start to finish. QMJHL Nominee – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens) 51G-51A, 102 PTS, +62 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season Named both QMJHL and CHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, Maxim Massé added another major accomplishment to his résumé by capturing the Jean-Béliveau Trophy as the QMJHL’s top scorer with 102 points in 63 games. In his fourth season with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, the Anaheim Ducks prospect reached the 50-goal plateau for the first time, finishing with career highs of 51 goals, 51 assists, and 102 points. His total put him six points ahead of Val-d’Or Foreurs forward Philippe Veilleux in the QMJHL scoring race. Massé also shared the CHL goal-scoring lead with Seattle Thunderbirds forward Cameron Schmidt and Blainville-Boisbriand Armada forward Justin Carbonneau, who also finished with 51 goals apiece. Massé and Schmidt were the only two players in the CHL to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks in 2025-26. Selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the third round, 66th overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, Massé continued to showcase the offensive skill, finishing ability, and playmaking touch that have made him one of the organization’s top prospects. A consistent offensive force throughout the season, Massé ranked sixth across the CHL in points per game at 1.62, the highest rate among players who appeared in more than 60 games. His breakout campaign firmly established him among the QMJHL’s elite players and one of the CHL’s most dangerous offensive threats.

Pickford, Aitcheson and Bleyl named finalists for CHL’s 2025-26 Defenceman of the Year Award

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:06:07 +0000

Bryce Pickford of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL), Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts (OHL) and Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the 2025-26 CHL Defenceman of the Year Award, presented annually to the top defenceman in the Canadian Hockey League. The three finalists are the recipients of their respective league awards: the WHL’s Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy, the OHL’s Max Kaminsky Trophy and the QMJHL’s Émile-Bouchard Trophy. The winner of the 2025-26 CHL Defenceman of the Year Award will be announced at the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15 in Toronto, Ont. Over the years, the CHL Defenceman of the Year Award has been won by several notable players, including Chris Pronger (Peterborough Petes / OHL), Dan Hamhuis (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Keith Yandle (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL), Ryan Ellis (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Dougie Hamilton (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Ivan Provorov (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL), Thomas Chabot (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL), Olen Zellweger (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) and, most recently, Sam Dickinson (London Knights / OHL). WHL Nominee — Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers) 45G-38A, 83 PTS, +55 in 55 GP during the 2025-26 season Bryce Pickford delivered one of the greatest goal-scoring seasons by a defenceman in modern CHL history, finishing the 2025-26 WHL campaign with 83 points, including 45 goals, and a plus-55 rating in 55 games. His 45 goals were the most by a CHL defenceman in a single season in nearly 40 years, dating back to Greg Hawgood’s 48-goal campaign in 1987-88. The total also left Pickford just five goals shy of the WHL and CHL single-season record for goals by a defenceman, set by Saskatoon Blades blueliner Lawrence Sacharuk, who scored 50 in 1971-72. Among CHL defencemen, Pickford’s 45-goal campaign stands as the highest single-season total of the 21st century, surpassing Marc-André Bergeron’s 42-goal season with the Shawinigan Cataractes in 2000-01. The Montreal Canadiens prospect was also the only defenceman to finish among the CHL’s top 10 goal scorers in 2025-26, while his 0.82 goals-per-game rate was the best among that group. Pickford’s 83 points ranked second among WHL defencemen, trailing only Medicine Hat teammate Jonas Woo, who finished with 86 points. A constant offensive threat from the blue line, Pickford led all WHL skaters with 19 power-play goals and tied for the league lead with 11 game-winning goals. The 20-year-old from Chauvin, Alta., helped the Tigers claim a second consecutive Central Division title and was named to the WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team. He is the third player in Medicine Hat history to be named WHL Defenceman of the Year, joining Kris Russell, who won the award in 2005-06 and 2006-07, and Wayne McBean, who earned the honour in 1986-87. With a win at the CHL Awards, Pickford would also become the second Tigers player to capture the CHL Defenceman of the Year honour, following Russell in 2006-07. Pickford’s season included three hat tricks, recorded on December 6 against Wenatchee, January 9 versus Seattle and March 4 at Brandon. He also posted one five-point outing and two separate four-point performances. From November 28 to January 10, he recorded points in 15 straight games, producing 36 points, including 20 goals, during that stretch. He also enjoyed two separate eight-game goal-scoring streaks, scoring 14 times from December 3 to December 28 before adding another 10 goals during an eight-game run from February 21 to March 7. Pickford signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens on December 24, 2025. At the time, he led the WHL with 25 goals in 31 games. Montreal selected him in the third round, 81st overall, of the 2025 NHL Draft. OHL Nominee — Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts) 28G-42A, 70 PTS, +46 in 56 GP during the 2025-26 season Kashawn Aitcheson put together a record-setting season in Barrie, leading all OHL defencemen with 70 points while establishing a new Colts franchise record for goals by a defenceman with 28. His offensive production, physical presence and ability to impact the game in every situation made him one of the OHL’s most complete blueliners throughout the 2025-26 campaign. Along with his 70 points, Aitcheson finished among the league leaders with a plus-46 rating and scored six game-winning goals. The 6-foot-2, 203-pound defenceman was especially dangerous on the power play, where his 15 goals led all OHL blueliners. He also thrived in an expanded role under first-year Colts Head Coach Dylan Smoskowitz, contributing as a puck-mover, shooter, shutdown presence and physical force. Aitcheson’s season capped an outstanding career in Barrie. The Toronto, Ont., native finished as the Colts’ all-time leader in goals and points by a defenceman, with 63 goals and 171 points. Selected by the New York Islanders with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, Aitcheson also stood out in this year’s OHL Coaches Poll, placing first in Eastern Conference voting for best shot, hardest shot, best bodychecker and best offensive defenceman. He was also a member of Canada’s bronze medal-winning National Junior Team this past January. Aitcheson becomes the third Colts defenceman to win the Max Kaminsky Trophy, joining Aaron Ekblad in 2013-14 and Erik Reitz in 2001-02. He was selected from a group of finalists that also included Frankie Marrelli of the Ottawa 67’s, Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds and Carson Woodall of the Windsor Spitfires. Should he be named CHL Defenceman of the Year, Aitcheson would become the first Barrie player to win the award. QMJHL Nominee — Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats) 13G-68A, 81 PTS, +58 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season Tommy Bleyl’s historic rookie season with the Moncton Wildcats earned him the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as the QMJHL’s Defenceman of the Year, adding to one of the most decorated debut campaigns in recent league history. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect finished second among all QMJHL rookies with 81 points in 63 games, setting a new league record for points by a rookie defenceman. The previous mark of 77 points had stood since 1978, when it was set by Gaston Therrien. Bleyl’s 68 assists led the entire QMJHL, regardless of position, finishing nine ahead of Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward Thomas Verdon and Chicoutimi Saguenéens defenceman Alex Huang. His 68 assists also stand as the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century and the fifth-highest total by any CHL rookie since 2000. Among QMJHL defencemen, Bleyl ranked first in points, power-play points and shots on goal, finishing 11 points ahead of Huang for the scoring lead among blueliners. His vision, poise and ability to drive offence from the back end quickly made him one of the league’s most dangerous power-play quarterbacks and a key piece of Moncton’s attack. Bleyl also became only the second player in QMJHL history to win both the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as Defenceman of the Year and the Sidney-Crosby Trophy as Rookie of the Year in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov, who accomplished the feat with the Drummondville Voltigeurs in 2008-09. After helping Moncton capture a second consecutive QMJHL regular season championship, Bleyl ended the season with three league trophies, having also earned the Raymond-Lagacé Trophy as Defensive Rookie of the Year. A win at the 2026 CHL Awards would make him the third Wildcats player to be named CHL Defenceman of the Year, joining Keith Yandle in 2005-06 and David Savard in 2009-10. His standout campaign has also drawn significant NHL attention, as he is ranked 17th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Hurlbert, Klepov, and Bleyl named finalists for the CHL’s 2025-26 Rookie of the Year

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:59:41 +0000

JP Hurlbert of the Kamloops Blazers (WHL), Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL), and Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the CHL Rookie of the Year Award, presented annually to the Canadian Hockey League’s top rookie. Each finalist earned his respective Member League’s rookie of the year honour: Hurlbert captured the WHL’s Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy, Klepov won the OHL’s Emms Family Award, and Bleyl claimed the QMJHL’s Sidney-Crosby Trophy. The 2025-26 season marks the first time in CHL history that all three Member League Rookie of the Year recipients are U.S.-born players. With all three finalists hailing from the United States, this year’s winner will become the sixth American to receive the CHL Rookie of the Year Award, joining Patrick Kane (London Knights/OHL), Alex DeBrincat (Erie Otters / OHL), David Legwand (Plymouth Whalers / OHL), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL), and Patrick O’Sullivan (Mississauga IceDogs / OHL). The 2026 recipient will be announced at the CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15, in downtown Toronto. The award’s decorated list of past winners also includes Joe Thornton (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Vincent Lecavalier (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), John Tavares (Oshawa Generals / OHL), Taylor Hall (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Brayden Yager (Moose Jaw Warriors / WHL), Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), and most recently Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL). WHL Nominee – JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers) 42G-55A, 97 PTS, +13 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Hurlbert is the top-ranked U.S.-born skater in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings, listed as the No. 12 North American skater. His outstanding rookie season saw him become just the third player in Kamloops Blazers history to capture the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy as WHL Rookie of the Year, joining Scottie Upshall (2000-01) and Ron Shudra (1985-86). If selected as the 2026 CHL Rookie of the Year, Hurlbert would become the second Blazers player to win the award, joining Upshall, who captured the honour in 2000-01. A native of Allen, Texas, Hurlbert is also only the second Texas-born player to earn WHL Rookie of the Year honours, following Arlington native Seth Jones, who won the award with the Portland Winterhawks in 2012-13. With 97 points, Hurlbert delivered the highest-scoring rookie season in Kamloops Blazers history, surpassing Upshall’s previous benchmark of 87 points in 2000-01. Hurlbert was named to the WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team and is also a finalist for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL Player of the Year — a rare honour for a first-year player. His 97 points led all WHL rookies and tied Nikita Klepov for the most by any rookie across the CHL in 2025-26. Serving as an alternate captain for the Blazers, the 6-foot, 182-pound forward ranked among the WHL leaders in several offensive categories, finishing fourth in points, tied for fourth in goals, tied for second in first goals, and tied for eighth in assists. He also became just the third rookie in Blazers history to score 40 goals in a season, joining Upshall and Rudolfs Balcers, while adding six four-point outings and three hat tricks on home ice. Should Hurlbert be named the 2026 CHL Rookie of the Year, he would become the second Kamloops Blazers player to win the award, joining Scottie Upshall, who captured the honour in 2000-01. OHL Nominee – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) 37G-60A, 97 PTS, +9 in 67 GP during the 2025-26 season Nikita Klepov became just the third player in OHL history to win both the Eddie Powers Trophy as the league’s scoring champion and the Emms Family Award as Rookie of the Year in the same season, joining Jack Valiquette of the 1973-74 Soo Greyhounds and Patrick Kane of the 2006-07 London Knights. Klepov led the OHL with 97 points (37G-60A) in 67 games, becoming the first player to accomplish the rare double since Kane. The 17-year-old from Deerfield Beach, Florida, also became the first rookie to lead any CHL Member League in scoring since Kane did so with the London Knights in 2006-07. Since 2000, the only other rookie to accomplish that feat was Sidney Crosby with the Rimouski Océanic in 2003-04. Klepov’s 37 goals tied Cole Perfetti’s 2018-19 franchise rookie record with the Saginaw Spirit, while he joins Michael Misa (2022-23) as just the second player in team history to capture the Emms Family Award. If selected as the 2026 CHL Rookie of the Year, Klepov would become the first Spirit player to win the award. A 2026 NHL Draft prospect ranked 16th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Klepov also became the first CHL Import Draft selection to win OHL Rookie of the Year since Andrei Svechnikov in 2018. The rookie forward recorded at least three points in a game on 13 occasions and earned OHL Rookie of the Month honours in October, January, and February. Klepov’s playmaking skill, finishing ability, and confidence with the puck quickly established him as the focal point of the Spirit offence and one of the league’s brightest young stars. He finished as the clear front-runner in the award voting process after emerging as a finalist alongside Brantford Bulldogs NHL Draft-eligible centreman Caleb Malhotra, capping a historic season that rewrote portions of the Spirit record book. QMJHL Nominee – Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats) 13G-68A, 81 PTS, +58 in 63 GP during the 2025-26 season Tommy Bleyl finished second among all QMJHL rookies with 81 points in 63 games, setting a new league record for points by a rookie defenceman. The previous mark of 77 points had stood since 1978 and was held by Gaston Therrien, underscoring the historic nature of Bleyl’s offensive production from the blue line. His 68 assists led the entire QMJHL, regardless of position, as he finished nine ahead of Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward Thomas Verdon and Chicoutimi Saguenéens defenceman Alex Huang. Those 68 assists also stand as the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century and the fifth-highest total by any CHL rookie since 2000. Bleyl also became only the second player in QMJHL history to win both the Sidney-Crosby Trophy as Rookie of the Year and the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as Defenceman of the Year in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov, who accomplished the feat with the Drummondville Voltigeurs in 2008-09. He is also the first Wildcats player to be named QMJHL Rookie of the Year since Jordan Spence in 2018-19. Should Bleyl be named CHL Rookie of the Year, he would become just the fourth defenceman to receive the honour, joining Philippe Boucher (Granby Bisons / QMJHL, 1990-91), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL, 1994-95), and Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2024-25), who captured the award last season. He would also become the first Wildcats player to win the award. After helping lead Moncton to a second consecutive QMJHL regular season championship, Bleyl concludes the year with three league trophies to his name, having also captured the Raymond-Lagacé Trophy as Defensive Rookie of the Year earlier this week. His remarkable rookie campaign has firmly established him as one of the top young defencemen in Canadian major junior hockey. Bleyl’s outstanding play has also drawn significant NHL attention, as he is ranked 17th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Smith, Woodall, and Kearsey named finalists for the CHL’s 2025-26 Humanitarian of the Year

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:57:21 +0000

Shane Smith of the Kelowna Rockets (WHL), Carson Woodall of the Windsor Spitfires (OHL) and Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the 2025-26 CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented annually to the CHL player judged to have made the most notable contribution to his community. The three finalists are the recipients of their respective league awards: the WHL’s Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy, the OHL’s Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy and the QMJHL’s Humanitarian of the Year Award. The winner of the 2025-26 CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award will be announced at the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15 in Toronto, Ont. Over the years, the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award has been won by several notable players, including Simon Gamache (Val-d’Or Foreurs / QMJHL), Jim Vandermeer (Red Deer Rebels / WHL), Chris Campoli (Erie Otters / OHL), Colin Fraser (Red Deer Rebels / WHL), Luke Prokop (Edmonton Oil Kings / WHL), Dalyn Wakely (North Bay Battalion / OHL), Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs / OHL) and, most recently, Maxwell Jardine (Charlottetown Islanders / QMJHL). WHL Nominee – Shane Smith (Kelowna Rockets) 33G-35A, 68 PTS, -5 in 61 GP during the 2025-26 season Acquired by Kelowna in a mid-season trade, Shane Smith made an immediate impact with the Rockets both on and off the ice during the 2025-26 campaign. The 21-year-old from Cessford, Alta., recorded 68 points, including 33 goals and 35 assists, in 61 regular-season games while quickly establishing himself as a leader in the dressing room and throughout the community. Smith became just the second Kelowna Rockets player to be named WHL Humanitarian of the Year, following Ty Hurley, who captured the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy in 2023-24. It also marked the third straight season in which Smith was recognized as a finalist for the WHL award, following previous nominations with the Medicine Hat Tigers in 2024 and the Lethbridge Hurricanes in 2025. Known for his professionalism, accountability and commitment to giving back, Smith was heavily involved in school visits, fan engagement events, sponsor appearances and team-led community initiatives throughout the year. His most personal initiative, “Shane Scores for Maia,” began during his time with the Hurricanes. Through the program, Smith donated $25 for every point he recorded to the Canadian CMV Foundation in honour of his niece, Maia, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV at birth. In total, Smith donated $1,800 while helping raise awareness for congenital CMV, a common viral infection that can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy and affects approximately one in 200 newborns in Canada. Through his work in the community and his commitment to using his platform for a meaningful cause, Smith has made a lasting impact across the WHL and exemplified the values represented by the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award. OHL Nominee – Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires) 12G-51A, 63 PTS, +17 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season Carson Woodall has raised more than $175,000 for cancer research through “Woody’s Hoodies,” an initiative inspired by his two grandmothers: the late Nana O’Brien and Nana Woodall, who has also battled cancer. What began as a personal tribute has grown into one of Windsor-Essex’s most recognizable community fundraising efforts. Through creativity, leadership and a deep commitment to giving back, Woodall has helped “Woody’s Hoodies” reach minor hockey teams, schools, local businesses and families across the region. His fundraising efforts have included organizing and participating in minor hockey tournaments, partnering with community organizations and twice rappelling down one of Windsor’s tallest buildings to raise awareness and support for cancer-related causes. While hoodies remain the initiative’s signature item, Woodall has also expanded the campaign to include other fundraising apparel and merchandise. Named the 2025 Youth Philanthropist of the Year by the Windsor-Essex Community Foundation, Woodall has supported organizations such as Play for a Cure, the Windsor Cancer Foundation and Erie Shores Hospice. His signature “Woody’s Hoodies” have become a familiar sight throughout the community, with more than 5,500 items sold, including over 4,800 customized hoodies. A Belle River, Ont., native and former 10th-round pick of the Spitfires, Woodall also enjoyed a standout season on the ice, finishing with 63 points in 68 games and earning recognition as an OHL Defenceman of the Year finalist. He also placed second in Western Conference voting in the OHL Coaches Poll for both most improved player and best offensive defenceman. Woodall is the first player in Windsor Spitfires history to be named OHL Humanitarian of the Year, an honour that recognizes both his impact in the community and the difference he has made beyond the rink. QMJHL Nominee – Marcus Kearsey (Charlottetown Islanders) 15G-40A, 55 PTS, -7 in 62 GP during the 2025-26 season

For the second time in three years, Marcus Kearsey was named the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year, earning the honour in recognition of his outstanding community involvement, leadership, and excellence on the ice.

The Charlottetown Islanders captain previously received the award in 2023-24, further cementing his reputation as one of the QMJHL’s top leaders both on and off the ice. Kearsey’s recognition continues a remarkable run for the Islanders. Since each league winner becomes a finalist for the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award, Charlottetown has now represented the QMJHL for the honour in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three. That stretch includes Kearsey in 2023-24 and 2025-26, Maxwell Jardine in 2024-25, and Brett Budgell in 2022-23. Over four seasons in Charlottetown, Kearsey became one of the Islanders’ most active community ambassadors. He launched the Kearsey’s Kids program, inviting a child to each regular-season home game as his guest, with each child receiving tickets, a personalized poster, a T-shirt, and a pre-game meet-and-greet. In 2025-26, he partnered the program with KidSport PEI to help provide those experiences to children from families facing financial barriers to sport. Kearsey also served as the Islanders’ Hockey Gives Blood ambassador for three seasons, helping organize team blood donations and promote fan participation in the Battle of the Bridge. During his time in the role, the Islanders won the challenge in back-to-back years, with the program tied to more than 100 donations. His impact extended across several other causes throughout Prince Edward Island. Kearsey served as player ambassador for the Islanders’ One Game One Wish fundraiser in support of Make-A-Wish, helping the club reach its $10,000 goal, delivered an anti-bullying presentation to more than 100 students through PEI Crime Stoppers, and regularly participated in minor hockey practices, jamborees, school visits, autograph sessions, and youth hockey initiatives during the season and offseason. Should Kearsey be named CHL Humanitarian of the Year, the Islanders would become the first club in CHL history to win the award in consecutive seasons after Jardine captured the honour in 2024-25. On the ice, Kearsey enjoyed the best offensive season of his QMJHL career, recording a personal-high 55 points, including 15 goals and 40 assists, in 62 games. He finished fifth among QMJHL defencemen in scoring, while his five power-play goals and three game-winning goals both ranked second among league blueliners. Kearsey’s continued impact in Charlottetown — paired with his best season on the ice — has made him one of the CHL’s most accomplished leaders in 2025-26.

Weiermair, Harper, and Brisson named finalists for the CHL’s 2025-26 Scholastic Player of the Year

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:54:36 +0000

Alex Weiermair of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL), Levi Harper of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL), and Nathan Brisson of the Val-d’Or Foreurs (QMJHL) have been named finalists for the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award. Presented annually, the award honours the CHL player who best combines success on the ice with achievement in the classroom. The three finalists earned their place as recipients of the corresponding scholastic player of the year awards from each of the CHL’s Member Leagues: the WHL’s Daryl K. “Doc” Seaman Memorial Trophy, the OHL’s Bobby Smith Trophy, and the QMJHL’s Marcel-Robert Trophy. The 2026 recipient will be announced on Monday, June 15, during the CHL Awards ceremony in downtown Toronto. Over the years, the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award has been won by many outstanding players, including Scott Niedermayer (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Brad Boyes (Erie Otters / OHL), Dustin Brown (Guelph Storm / OHL), Devan Dubnyk (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Dougie Hamilton (Niagara IceDogs / OHL), Josh Morrissey (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Connor McDavid (Erie Otters / OHL), Cole Perfetti (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Colby Barlow (Owen Sound Attack / OHL), Noah Chadwick (Lethbridge Hurricanes / WHL), and most recently Mathieu Cataford (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL). WHL Nominee – Alex Weiermair (Portland Winterhawks) 37G-56A, 93 PTS, +12 in 66 GP during the 2025-26 season Alex Weiermair became just the second player in Portland Winterhawks history to be named WHL Scholastic Player of the Year, joining Dan Hulak, who earned the honour in 2000-01. Should Weiermair be selected as the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, he would also become the second Winterhawks player to win the national award, again joining Hulak, who captured it following the 2000-01 season. The 21-year-old from Los Angeles, Calif., balanced the demands of an overage WHL season while maintaining a 4.0 GPA across challenging university coursework. His studies included chemistry, business, history, and psychology, while his academic background also includes advanced-level calculus and physics. Away from formal coursework, Weiermair speaks German and is teaching himself Italian, further highlighting his commitment to learning and personal growth. An alternate captain in Portland this season, Weiermair was recognized throughout the organization for his maturity, humility, integrity, and leadership both on and off the ice. On the ice, the 6-foot-1, 207-pound forward enjoyed a standout campaign, recording 93 points, including 37 goals and 56 assists, in 66 regular season games. He led the Winterhawks in scoring and finished fifth overall in the WHL while contributing consistently in all situations. Despite playing a heavy-minute role, Weiermair recorded just 28 penalty minutes during the season. He was also named a finalist for the Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player. His combination of offensive production, discipline, leadership, and academic excellence made him one of the WHL’s most respected players in 2025-26. Selected by the Golden Knights in the sixth round (186th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, Weiermair’s impressive season earned him a three-year, entry-level contract on March 1. OHL Nominee – Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit) 12G-45A, 57 PTS, -3 in 68 GP during the 2025-26 season Levi Harper earned the OHL’s Bobby Smith Trophy after an exceptional first season with the Saginaw Spirit, becoming the third player in franchise history to receive the honour after Michael Misa and Cole Perfetti. If selected as the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, Harper would become the second Spirit player to win the national award, joining Perfetti, who earned the honour in 2019-20. In the classroom, Harper achieved a 93.2 percent average while graduating a full year early after completing all of his high school requirements by the end of Grade 11. His academic transcript included 98 percent averages in both Modern British Literature and World Cultures, along with a 96 percent mark in Anatomy and Physiology. He also earned a place on the University of Nebraska High School honour roll throughout his enrollment. On the ice, the 17-year-old Harper, who is not eligible for the NHL Draft until 2027, enjoyed a historic rookie season with the Spirit. The 5-foot-11, 170-pound right-shot defenceman set a new franchise record for points by a rookie blueliner, recording 57 points, including 12 goals and 45 assists, in 68 games. Known for his skating, puck movement, and poise under pressure, Harper quickly established himself as one of the OHL’s top young defensive prospects. He also represented the United States internationally, helping his country win gold at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup before later competing at the 2026 IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championship. QMJHL Nominee – Nathan Brisson (Val-d'Or Foreurs) 20G-44A, 64 PTS, +7 in 50 GP during the 2025-26 season Val-d’Or Foreurs captain Nathan Brisson was named the QMJHL’s Student-Athlete of the Year after earning the Marcel-Robert Trophy, becoming the first Foreurs player to receive the honour since Jacob Gaucher in 2020-21. If selected as the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, Brisson would become the first Val-d’Or Foreurs player to win the national award. A Natural Science student at Cégep de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Val-d’Or, Nathan Brisson is nearing the completion of his program while maintaining grades well above 90 percent in the vast majority of his courses. Aspiring to a career in law, Brisson has shown the same discipline and commitment in the classroom that he brings to the ice each day. Those qualities were especially evident this season as he faced health challenges that forced him to spend an extended period away from campus. Despite the setback, Brisson continued his studies independently with remarkable rigor, determination, and resilience. His ability to adapt under difficult circumstances allowed him to continue excelling academically and pass his exams with flying colours. On the ice, Brisson remained a key contributor for the Foreurs despite missing 14 games, finishing third in team scoring with 64 points, including 20 goals and 44 assists, in 50 regular season games. Widely respected for his maturity and work ethic, Brisson has demonstrated an impressive ability to balance the demands of high-level hockey with academic excellence, making him a strong role model within both his team and school community.

Cootes, Beaudoin and Huang named finalists for CHL’s 2025-26 Sportsman Player of the Year Award

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:50:59 +0000

Braeden Cootes of the Prince Albert Raiders (WHL), Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts (OHL), and Alex Huang of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) have been named the three finalists for the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award, presented annually to the player judged to be the most sportsmanlike among the CHL’s 61 member clubs. The finalists are the recipients of their respective Member League honours: the WHL’s Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy, the OHL’s William Hanley Trophy, and the QMJHL’s David-Desharnais Trophy. The recipient of the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award will be announced during the 2026 CHL Awards on Monday, June 15, in Toronto, Ont. Over the years, the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award has been won by many outstanding players, including Eric Daze (Beauport Harfangs / QMJHL), Brad Boyes (Erie Otters / OHL), Jeff Carter (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Mark Stone (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL), Sam Reinhart (Kootenay Ice / WHL), Samuel Girard (Shawinigan Cataractes / QMJHL), Nick Suzuki (Owen Sound Attack / OHL), Brayden Yager (Moose Jaw Warriors / WHL), and most recently Berkly Catton (Spokane Chiefs / WHL). WHL Nominee — Braeden Cootes (Prince Albert Raiders) 24G-39A, 63 PTS, +27 & 8 PIM in 45 GP during the 2025-26 season Braeden Cootes earned the Brad Hornung Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player after combining elite offensive production with remarkable discipline throughout the 2025-26 season. Acquired by the Raiders from the Seattle Thunderbirds on Jan. 6, Cootes played 45 games between Seattle and Prince Albert, recording 24 goals and 39 assists for 63 points while taking just eight penalty minutes. A Vancouver Canucks first-round pick, selected 15th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Cootes matched his career high in points despite playing 15 fewer games than he did in 2024-25. Following his arrival in Prince Albert, Cootes elevated his production even further, collecting 40 points (14G-26A) in 28 regular-season games with the Raiders. Prior to the trade, the Sherwood Park, Alta., product had served as captain of the Thunderbirds for two seasons, further underscoring the leadership and maturity that have defined his WHL career. The 19-year-old also represented Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, recording two goals in seven games while helping his country earn a bronze medal. Earlier in the season, Cootes also made his NHL debut with the Canucks, appearing in three games after signing his entry-level contract with Vancouver in July 2025. Originally selected by Seattle in the first round, 10th overall, of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, Cootes has produced 162 points (64G-98A) in 176 career WHL regular-season games. If selected as the recipient, Cootes would become the first player in Prince Albert Raiders history to win the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award. OHL Nominee — Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts) 33G-56A, 89 PTS, +40 & 29 PIM in 54 GP during the 2025-26 season Cole Beaudoin captured the William Hanley Trophy as the OHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player after delivering one of the league’s most complete seasons. The Barrie Colts captain led his club in scoring with 33 goals, 56 assists, and 89 points in just 54 games, while posting a plus-40 rating and taking only 29 penalty minutes. His 1.65 points-per-game average ranked second in the OHL, placing him among the CHL’s most efficient offensive performers while maintaining the disciplined, hard-driving style that has become his trademark. Beaudoin’s well-rounded game was recognized in the OHL Coaches Poll, where he led all players with four first-place finishes — hardest worker, best defensive forward, best on face-offs, and best penalty killer — while also placing second in the category of smartest player. He also finished tied for the OHL lead with 10 game-winning goals and won 55 per cent of his face-offs. On the international stage, Beaudoin represented Canada at the IIHF World Junior Championship for a second consecutive year, recording seven points (3G-4A) in seven games. His blend of power, discipline, leadership, and 200-foot reliability also earned him a nomination for the Red Tilson Trophy as the Colts’ Most Outstanding Player. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round, 24th overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 211-pound centreman from Kanata, Ont., has registered 222 points (91G-131A) in 236 career OHL regular-season games. At the CHL level, Beaudoin would become the second Barrie Colts player to win the Sportsman Player of the Year Award, joining Evan Vierling, who received the honour in 2022-23. QMJHL Nominee — Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens) 11G-59A, 70 PTS, +58 & 14 PIM in 62 GP during the 2025-26 season Alex Huang earned the David-Desharnais Trophy as the QMJHL’s most sportsmanlike player after a breakout third season with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens that showcased poise, production, and discipline from the blue line. The Nashville Predators prospect raised his career high from 40 points to 70, finishing second among QMJHL defencemen in scoring with 11 goals and 59 assists. His playmaking ability and calm puck-moving presence helped drive Chicoutimi’s offence, particularly on special teams, where he ranked second among QMJHL blueliners with 32 power-play points. Huang also ranked second among QMJHL defencemen with a plus-58 rating, reflecting his impact at both ends of the ice. Used in all situations — at even strength, on the power play, and on the penalty kill — he handled significant minutes against top competition while being assessed just 14 penalty minutes all season. Winning the David-Desharnais Trophy carried added significance in Chicoutimi, as the award is named after Saguenéens great David Desharnais, whose jersey has been retired by the club and who won the honour a QMJHL-record three consecutive times during his junior career. Huang was also named a finalist for the 2025-26 Émile-Bouchard Trophy, awarded to the QMJHL’s top defenceman, alongside teammate Tomas Lavoie. His combination of offensive creativity, defensive reliability, and team-first maturity made Huang one of the QMJHL’s most complete defencemen and a key piece of Chicoutimi’s success throughout the season. Should he be named the CHL recipient, Huang would follow Desharnais as just the second Chicoutimi player to win the league’s Sportsman Player of the Year honour.

Ravensbergen, Fetterolf, and Guimond named finalists for CHL’s 2025-26 Goaltender of the Year

Scott Vankoughnett — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:48:31 +0000

Joshua Ravensbergen of the Prince George Cougars (WHL), Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s (OHL), and Rudy Guimond of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) have been named the three finalists for the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award, presented annually to the top goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League. The finalists for the award are determined by the recipients of each Member League’s top goaltender honour, including the WHL’s Del Wilson Memorial Trophy, the OHL’s Jim Rutherford Trophy, and the QMJHL’s Patrick-Roy Trophy. The recipient of the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award will be announced at the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony on Monday, June 15, in Toronto, Ont. Over the years, the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award has been won by many sttandout netminders, including Trevor Kidd (Brandon Wheat Kings / WHL), Jocelyn Thibault (Sherbrooke Faucons / QMJHL), Martin Biron (Beauport Harfangs / QMJHL), Ray Emery (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Cam Ward (Red Deer Rebels / WHL), Carey Price (Tri-City Americans / WHL), Jake Allen (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL), Dustin Wolf (Everett Silvertips / WHL), William Rousseau (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies / QMJHL), and most recently Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers / OHL). WHL Nominee — Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars) 32-13-0-0 record, 2.51 GAA, .919 SV% & 4 SO in 46 GP during the 2025-26 season Joshua Ravensbergen became the first Prince George Cougars goaltender to capture the Del Wilson Memorial Trophy, and just the third netminder in franchise history to earn the honour, joining Grant Fuhr (1980-81) and Kevin Eastman (1979-80), who accomplished the feat while the franchise was located in Victoria. The San Jose Sharks prospect finished the 2025-26 WHL season with a 32-13-0-0 record, a 2.51 goals-against average, a .919 save percentage, and four shutouts. The 6-foot-6, 195-pound netminder from North Vancouver, B.C., ranked first in the WHL in both wins and save percentage, tied for second in shutouts, and placed fourth in goals-against average Named to the WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team, Ravensbergen helped Prince George record a third consecutive 40-win season, as the Cougars finished third in the WHL’s Western Conference with a 44-22-0-2 record. In 25 of his 46 appearances, Ravensbergen allowed two goals or fewer, while three of his four shutouts came on the road. Undrafted into the WHL, Ravensbergen has become one of the league’s top goaltending stories over the last three seasons. He owns a 91-30-4-2 record, a 2.68 goals-against average, a .909 save percentage, and 10 shutouts across 135 career WHL regular-season appearances. Selected 30th overall by San Jose in the 2025 NHL Draft, Ravensbergen also represented Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, helping his country earn a bronze medal Should he win the CHL honour, Ravensbergen would become the first Prince George Cougars player to capture the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award. OHL Nominee — Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67's) 29-9-2-1 record, 2.07 GAA, .923 SV% & 6 SO in 41 GP during the 2025-26 season Signed by Ottawa as an undrafted free agent last summer, Ryder Fetterolf quickly emerged as one of the OHL’s top goaltenders during a historic rookie campaign with the 67’s. The 18-year-old from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, finished the regular season with a 29-9-2-1 record, a franchise-record 2.07 goals-against average, and a CHL-leading .923 save percentage. His six shutouts also set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. Fetterolf’s 2.07 goals-against average led the CHL and stands as the fifth-lowest single-season mark by an OHL goaltender in league history. It also ranks as the second-best single-season GAA ever recorded by an OHL rookie, behind only Ryan MacDonald of the London Knights, who posted a 2.06 mark in 2003-04. By also leading the CHL in save percentage, Fetterolf became just the second rookie since 1997-98 to top the league in both goals-against average and save percentage while playing at least 40 per cent of his team’s minutes and more than 1,600 minutes. The only other rookie to accomplish that feat over that span was Evan Gardner of the Saskatoon Blades in 2023-24. Fetterolf earned OHL Rookie of the Month honours in October before later being named both the league’s top rookie and top goaltender for the month of March. He also shared the Dave Pinkney Trophy with Jaeden Nelson as the OHL’s lowest goals-against tandem and received the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy as the rookie goaltender with the league’s lowest goals-against average. Fetterolf became just the second Ottawa 67’s goaltender to win the Jim Rutherford Trophy, joining Craig Hillier, who earned the honour in 1995-96. He is also the first American-born goaltender to receive the award since Alex Nedeljkovic of the Plymouth Whalers in 2013-14, and the first rookie goaltender in his first two years of OHL eligibility to be named the league’s Goaltender of the Year. If selected as the CHL’s top goaltender, Fetterolf would become the first Ottawa 67’s player to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award. He would also become only the second rookie/first-year CHL goaltender to capture the CHL honour — and the first in 31 years — following Martin Biron (Beauport Harfangs / QMJHL, 1994-95). Fetterolf would also become just the third American-born netminder to win the award, joining Michael Houser (London Knights / OHL, 2011-12) and Dustin Wolf (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2019-20). QMJHL Nominee — Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats) 40-7-1-2 record, 2.27 GAA, .922 SV% & 3 SO in 50 GP during the 2025-26 season Rudy Guimond captured the QMJHL’s Patrick-Roy Trophy after a dominant season in which he established himself as one of the top goaltenders in the CHL. The Detroit Red Wings prospect led all QMJHL goaltenders in wins (40), goals-against average (2.27), save percentage (.922), and minutes played (2,990). He also ranked third in games played with 50 and fifth in shutouts with three, helping guide Moncton to a second consecutive QMJHL regular-season championship. Guimond’s 40 wins led both the QMJHL and CHL in 2025-26, making him the first CHL goaltender to reach the 40-win mark since Dustin Wolf recorded 41 victories with the Everett Silvertips in 2018-19. His total is tied for the 11th-most by a goaltender in a single season in QMJHL history and stands as the highest mark by a QMJHL netminder since Alex Dubeau won 41 games with Moncton in 2014-15. A model of consistency throughout the year, Guimond became just the sixth QMJHL goaltender since 2000 to record a 40-win season. He also concludes his QMJHL career with a league-record 2.14 career goals-against average, surpassing the previous mark of 2.31 set by Colten Ellis in 2021. With his combination of poise, athleticism, and technical consistency, Guimond leaves the QMJHL as one of the league’s most accomplished goaltenders of the modern era. Should he win the CHL honour, Guimond would become the first Moncton Wildcats player to capture the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award.