In a year filled with so much uncertainty due to shutdowns from COVID-19, for the first time since the 2019 Don Mills Flyers won it, we once again have an OHL Cup champion as the Mississauga Senators won the coveted championship for the first time in the organizations history. While all the U16 AAA minor hockey leagues have crowned champions, as the Toronto Jr. Canadiens won the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) championship over the Markham Majors. The York Simcoe Express took home the Red Hats as they won the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) championship after a thrilling overtime victory over the Niagara North Stars. The London Jr. Knights won their first Alliance AAA championship for the first time in five years after sweeping the Brantford 99ers in their four-point championship series. The Nepean Raiders U18 team took home the Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO) U18 championship after sweeping the Navan Grads U18 team in their series. Finally, up north the Soo Jr. Greyhounds U18 team took home the Great North Midget League (GNML) championship. With all the champions crowned, we now turn to the 2022 OHL Priority Selection taking place Friday April 29th and Saturday April 30th, with the first three rounds taking place on Friday and rounds four to fifteen taking place on the Saturday.
As we go through the players it is important to note that one player in particular, Matthew Virgilio of the St. Andrews College Varsity Saints is listed as an honourable mention. Virgilio announced early this season he had verbally committed to the University of Michigan, and then later signed a tender with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL. Prior to joining St. Andrews, Virgilio was a pivotal part of the Toronto Marlboros in U14/U15, and while he won’t be taken as high in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection due to his USHL and NCAA commitments, it is well worth saying that Virgilio would be a top 10 player in this group and was an impactful defenceman game and game out for St. Andrews.
Breaking down what the top 60 looks like by league, with a lot of preseason movement and players coming from outside of the Greater Toronto Area to play in the GTHL, the GTHL has the most players within the top 60, having thirty-one players. The ETA is next with ten players, followed by the Alliance with eight players. The HEO has six players, then the SCTA has four player, and the GNML rounds out the list with one player on the list.
1. Michael Misa – 5’11, 160 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
Making waves in the hockey world after setting and breaking several OHL Cup records including Connor McDavid’s OHL Cup scoring record with 20 points in just 7 games, 2007 born Michael Misa became the sixth player to be granted exceptional status into the OHL, and eighth in the CHL. Thinking the game at a high level, his awareness of not just where he is on the ice but also where needs to go allows him to be one of the most effective players in transition being an outlet option while also being able to create offence as well. Misa is a quick player, using quick crossovers to pick up speed and drive by defenders subsequently using his elite puck skills to score or set up his teammates for scoring opportunities. With his high hockey IQ, Misa’s movement without the puck is outstanding, understanding where the soft areas on the ice are in all three zones, allowing him to sneak past defencemen in the offensive zone and consistently be ready and available to receive pucks from his teammates in stride in transition.
2. Malcolm Spence – 6’1, 170 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
After being named the 2022 GTHL Player of the Year and named to the OHL Cup All Star team, Spence has shown why if he isn’t the top pick he definitely is in the conversation. A dynamic winger with his tenacity, athleticism, skating and high-end puck skills, Spence is a player who found a way to be impactful whenever he stepped on the ice this season. Consistently utilizing his speed and edges effectively in transition to create smooth zone entries for his team. Spence was continuously able to create offence through his ability to separate into space and utilize his strong lower body to drive by defenders, looking to drive the net and use his skill with the puck to finish in tight. While he has shown the ability to create offence with his high-end puck skills, Spence has also consistently displayed the ability to beat goaltenders with a dangerous shot. With his on-ice movement, Spence is able to put himself in positions on the ice where he can utilize his quick release to snap hard-accurate shots past goalies. Even though his offensive abilities get your attention early, in games this season where the offensive success wasn’t there, he found a way to make an impact on the defensive side of the puck. Consistently providing relentless pressure on the back check hunting down the puck carrier or being an outlet option on the breakout with good positioning.
3. Michael Hage – 6’0, 170 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
A highly intelligent player who thinks the game at a high level, with elite puck skills, Hage is a player who can make an impact offensively, while being reliable in his own zone as well. Hage combines his on-ice awareness with his skating and edgework to identify open areas and subsequently take advantage of that space to make a play with the puck. He utilizes his edges to change pace and create deception with his eyes and feet to draw players into him, where Hage can then use his playmaking ability to find his open teammates with crisp passes. One of the impressive characteristics of Hage is his ability to handle different kinds of passes in stride on both his forehand and backhand, allowing maintain puck possession and set himself up to make an offensive play. With lots of creativity and elite puck skills, Hage is always doing something that will leave you saying “WOW” as he is constantly a threat to score himself or set up his teammates. Even though the offensive capabilities and elite talent catch your eye right off the bat, Hage is also a player who has been trusted this season in defensive situations, he comes back low in his zone and supports his defencemen and wingers effectively on the breakout allowing for a smooth transition from defence to offence.
4. Nathan Villeneuve – 6’0, 181 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Navan Grads U18 (HEO)
The Navan Grads U18 AAA program had a player taken in the first round of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection in Chris Barlas at 12th overall, and this year they will have another player taken even earlier. After putting up a remarkable 26 goals and 41 assists for 67 points as a rookie at the U18 level, Villeneuve was voted the HEO U18’s Top Prospect. Villeneuve is a player who competes every shift like its his last one, having one of the highest compete levels in the draft. With his energy, power, and speed, Villeneuve combines these with his compete on the ice to consistently bring a strong forecheck on the offensive end not allowing defenders much time and space with the puck, while also being relentless to get pucks back defensively. While Villeneuve brings the energy, he uses his feet effectively to move into open space where he can then utilize his quick hard-accurate shot to put the puck in the back of the net.
5. Sam Dickinson – 6’2, 195 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)
As one of the top defencemen eligible in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Dickinson helped lead the Marlboros to a GTHL regular season title and a quarter-final appearance at the OHL Cup. A workhorse on the backend, he continued to play an aggressive brand of hockey in both his own zone and on the offensive side as well. Matching up against the oppositions top lines on a consistent basis, Dickinson does not give up anything easy, using his big frame effectively down low to gain body position, win puck battles, and then start the breakout for his team. Dickinson has continuously displayed his ability to use his feet effectively in various situations, whether it be recovering in the defensive zone to shut down an offensive opportunity, utilize his feet to quickly escape pressure, or lead the rush up ice with the puck.
6. Ben Danford – 6’0, 172 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Quinte Red Devils (ETA)
One of the most exciting defencemen in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, the Red Devils captain was a catalyst on defence for his team throughout the season. Watching Danford, it all starts with his elite skating. One of the best skaters in the class, Danford is a poised defenceman who is an extremely fluid skater who consistently utilizes his elite edgework to create more time and space in his own zone, losing forecheckers with his quick movement. Danford has also displayed a high hockey IQ, reading the ice in front of him well, moving into space and making crisp breakout passes allowing efficient exits out of the defensive zone. While Danford is outstanding in his own zone, he has also continuously displayed an aggressiveness on the offensive side of the puck, using his feet to lead the rush up ice at times during the season.
7. Cole Beaudoin – 6’2, 190 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Nepean Raiders U18 (HEO)
One of the best two-way center’s in the draft, Beaudoin was a pivotal part of a Nepean Raiders team that would go on to win bronze at the Telus Cup Central Regional Championships after taking home the HEO U18 Championship. Beaudoin’s high level of play was recognized at the regional championships being named top forward, while also being voted as a runner-up for HEO U18’s top prospect. Being one of the biggest players on the ice, Beaudoin consistently utilizes his size and strength effectively to protect the puck down low, while also applying his size to be physical on the forecheck and in puck battles. He is a player that whenever he steps on the ice, the coaches know they are getting 110% from him with and without the puck, as he is constantly looking to make something happen with the puck on his stick and does not stop moving his feet to hunt the puck down when he doesn’t have the puck. Leading the HEO U18 league in rookie scoring with 77 points, Beaudoin is able to find passing lanes to set up his teammates, while also displaying a quick hard shot to beat goaltenders. Although Beaudoin was able to wow everyone with his offensive performance this season, his IQ and play in his defensive zone standout just as much. He understands where he needs to be in the defensive zone, supporting his defence down low, coming back down the middle, while on breakouts he consistently finds the right timing to accelerate and be available to be a breakout outlet pass option for his wingers or defencemen.
8. Porter Martone – 6’3, 180 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
Originally from Peterborough, Ontario, Martone joined an already potent Jr. Canadiens lineup making up one-third of what could be described as the most dangerous line in U16 AAA this season. With a high-end shot, Martone consistently found the back of the net in big games this season, including goals in the Whitby Silver Stick final and the OHL Cup final. Working his way into open space in the offensive zone, Martone continually seemed to know where to go in order to receive the puck from his linemates in a quality scoring position, where he could utilize his quick and accurate shot release to score. While Martone always seemed to impact the game on the scoresheet, he always found a way to impact the game beyond scoring a goal or getting an assist. Utilizing his size and strength along the boards in all three zones to win puck battles and earn his team puck possession. In his own zone, because of his hockey IQ and awareness of where to be, Martone was often a player you would see utilized on the penalty kill or late in the game when his team was defending a lead. Rarely caught cheating for offence, Martone used his reach with his stick effectively to take away passing lanes or block pass attempts by the opposition, while also displaying a willingness to block a shot or take a hit to make a play with the puck to get it out of his own zone.
9. Beckett Sennecke – 5’11, 155 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)
With 78 points in 45 games, Sennecke is a player with tons of creativity to go with his high-end skill, he brings a high hockey IQ and an upside that has many excited for the future. Sennecke is a dynamic offensive player, he is constantly finding ways to use his elite puck skills and hockey sense to create chances for his teammates or himself. He plays that strong modern day puck possession style of game, utilizing his skill, poise, and elusiveness to weave through the defence and find ways to create offence. Thinking the game at such a high level, Sennecke has tremendous vision on the ice being able to see plays that not many others can see. The winger is able to identify lanes and anticipate the play seeing where his teammates are going to be, and he utilizes his strong passing ability with area passes or tape-to-tape seam passes to set up his teammates for offensive chances in the zone or in transition. Sennecke’s ceiling is very exciting as it becomes clear while watching him, that he is still continuing to grow and fill out in his body, and his skating and on-ice abilities will only continue to get better.
10. Henry Mews – 6’0, 175 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
Making the move from Ottawa after just before the Sylvia Jacobs Fall Memorial Tournament in Markham this season, Mews was a welcome addition to the Jr. Canadiens this year bringing a high level of offence and poise at the point this year. A modern-day offensive defenceman, if you’re looking for a defenceman that can drive the offence up ice and be a quarterback on the backend Mews is your player. With his head up Mews is consistently using his mobility effectively to walk the offensive blue line, opening his hips as well as using his eyes and shot fakes to open up passing or shooting lanes through this deception. With his high hockey IQ and puck skills, Mews is a player who makes everyone around him better, activating in the offensive zone he understands when to rotate into open space to receive the puck but also draw defenders into him when he has the puck, where he can utilize his feet and hands to beat defenders one-on-one or make a play to a teammate. With his great skating, Mews plays the game with a great deal of poise, not panicking in his own zone as he has continuously displayed the ability to lead the breakout with the puck on his stick.
11. Bode Stewart – 6’0, 160 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
On a dominant team filled with talent, Stewart found a way to consistently display his strong two-way game to make an impact. The forward not only has the ability to get up to speed quickly, but he is able to maintain his pace with his edges, using his edges to keep pace as well as slow up and change directions creating more time and space for himself and his teammates. Skating with a wide base, Stewart takes contact well, driving up and away from defenders to maintain puck possession and make a smart play with the puck. Over the course of the season, an aspect of Stewart’s game that has continually developed has been his aggressiveness to be the primary puck carrier up ice, utilizing his feet and puck skills to gain the zone and attack the defence. While Stewart has shown the ability to attack off the rush and drive the net, he has also displayed a strong-accurate shot with a quick release.
12. Jack Van Volsen – 6’1, 172 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
Putting up a whopping 110 points in 57 games this year with 46 of those being goals, Van Volsen is one of the best pure goal scorers in the draft class with his outstanding shot and high IQ. Van Volsen may have that high end impressive scoring ability, however what is even more impressive is his on-ice awareness especially in the offensive zone. The centreman is consistently aware of his teammates positions on the ice whether he has the puck, or they have it, and is able to quietly maneuver himself into soft areas in the offensive zone, making himself available to his linemates. As evident by his 46 goals, Van Volsen capitalized on a great deal of scoring chances, however, with his scoring he displayed the ability to score in a multitude of ways. Whether it be from a shot from distance in the high slot area, or his patented one-timer from the right circle, it is clear he has the tools to be able to score at the next level. While the offence was no doubt impressive as he centered one of the best lines in U16 AAA this year, Van Volsen showed he can play that 200-foot game, being strong in the faceoff dot while also being a versatile player who his coaches trusted on the penalty kill and late in games defending a lead.
13. Anthony Cristoforo – 5’11, 180 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
Playing a strong physical two-way game on defence, Cristoforo utilizes his feet and strength effectively to defend while also displaying an aggressive style on the offensive side of the puck as well. Defending off the rush, Cristoforo uses his skating to maintain good gap on puck carriers, while also using his physicality to break up offensive rushes by angling players and laying the body. In his own zone, Cristoforo applies this physicality down low while maintaining good positioning to not allow easy entry into the high danger areas. He is consistently a key part of the breakout moving the puck up ice efficiently, finding his forwards making quick outlet passes to start the transition up ice. While Cristoforo was consistently reliable defensively, he continually became more and more aggressive offensively throughout the year. Looking to lead the offence up ice, identifying openings in front of him, and using his feet to accelerate up ice. On the offensive line, with his booming shot Cristoforo was consistently a threat to score from the point utilizing a powerful slap shot from both a stand still and one timer position to get the puck through to the net and beat goaltenders.
14. Kevin He – 6’0, 165 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
A dynamic offensive player, despite missing the first half of the season with an injury, He jumped right in with his fast-paced game. An elite skater, He uses his speed to his advantage with and without the puck on his stuck. In transition, the forward is a dangerous player in space as he explodes into open ice with the puck and into the offensive zone. The forward uses his edges extremely well to be able to cut or stop on a dime while at full speed backing the defence up to create more space and allowing teammates to catch up. While the forward is able to use his skating to be dynamic on the offensive side of the puck, He also applies his speed and drive to break up plays on the defensive side, hunting down puck carriers and forcing turnovers. He can play in any situation and his able to recover very quickly when he needs to with his quick feet. Along with his elite skating, He also has an elite shot with quick release he gets his shot off with a great deal of power and accuracy that he is often able to release with very little set up.
15. Kieron Walton – 6’6, 205 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
One of the most unique players eligible for the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Walton is a player who you could not take your eyes off of whenever the Rangers were playing. With a blend of size, skating, skill, and smarts, Walton constantly forced teams to be aware of when he was on the ice. Walton moves very well for his size and has elite puck skills using them to create a great deal of offence for himself and his teammates. The forward has a great understanding of where his teammates are on the ice in the offensive zone and is able to use his vision and playmaking ability to set up his linemates for quality scoring opportunities. He understands how to use his long stick to his advantage on the ice, showing the puck to defenders and then taking it away just as quick. In space, Walton uses his skating and speed well to attack defenders and find ways to get into spots on the ice where he can utilize his shot to beat goaltenders.
16. Zayne Parekh – 5’11, 165 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Markham Majors (GTHL)
After playing up a year with 2005 Toronto Jr. Canadiens before this season, Parekh joined an already exciting Majors team bringing his leadership, elite skating, poise, and offensive abilities. One of the most poised players in the draft, Parekh rarely panics with the puck on his stuck having immense confidence in his elite skating ability and puck handling. Often using his feet with great edgework as he loves that mohawk maneuver to swiftly evade forechecker and open up more time and space for himself, displaying the ability to breakout as the puck carrier or make a strong first pass to his weak side defence partner or one of his forwards. Due to his elite edgework, it has helped make Parekh one of the premier defencemen who can quarterback his team in the offensive zone not just on the powerplay but at 5 on 5 as well. Making plays that might remind someone of Cale Makar, he utilizes his edges so effectively to maneuver backwards along the blue line and then cut on a dime in a different direction opening more shooting or passing lanes, where he then finds his teammates with great cross ice passes for scoring chances.
17. Ethan Procyszyn – 6’1, 176 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – North Central Predators (ETA)
After leading the ETA in regular scoring with 52 points in 27 games, Procyszyn was named the ETA U16 Player of the Year, being a pivotal part of his teams success this season. A powerful two-way centre, Procyszyn possesses a high hockey IQ on the ice, while also being able to utilize his big frame to establish a physical presence on the ice. Always aware of where he is on the ice, Procyszyn’s movement without the puck is one of the most impressive aspects of his game, constantly knowing where open areas are on the ice and anticipating the play. With his bigger frame plus his high compete on the ice, Procyszyn uses both effectively to establish a strong forecheck, finishing his checks and forcing turnovers in all three zones. The centreman is consistently able to find ways to come out of battles with the puck, using his strength and a strong stick win those 50/50 battles. With 26 goals on the season Procyszyn has a powerful shot that is able to get off in space with great velocity and accuracy on his shots to consistently beat goaltenders with. In addition to applying his high hockey IQ and compete to the offensive side of the puck, Procyszyn applies these to the defensive side as well. He uses a quick stick to force turnovers, is relentless on the backcheck being one of the first players back supporting his defencemen down the middle and down low in the defensive zone, consistently being in good position in his own zone.
18. Frankie Marrelli – 5’11, 180 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – Markham Waxers (ETA)
A driving force on the backend for the Waxers this season, while captaining his team Marrelli consistently played big minutes against opposing teams top players. With an incredibly strong lower body and outstanding skating, Marrelli continuously used his skating effectively in his own zone to lose forecheckers, leveraging his strength and feet to brush off opposing players. Being such a smart player, he consistently took quick routes with the puck as well as when retrieving pucks. Poised with the puck, he consistently looked to use his puck handling and feet to work out of small areas and weave through traffic in his own zone, being a defenceman who can break the puck out of the defensive zone as the primary puck carrier with his feet, as well as with a strong first pass. While defending, Marrelli has confidence in his skating ability as well as his physical capabilities, breaking up cycles down low with his body and stick, while also maintaining a good gap off the rush and stopping offensive zone entries with an active stick and physicality. While Marrelli is trusted immensely on the defensive end, he was also a quarterback on the point for the Waxers with him using his mobility effectively offensively to open up lanes on the point, where he could use his powerful shot to get the puck through to the net.
19. Ben Cormier – 6’0, 179 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Navan Grads U18 (HEO)
After an incredible season a U16 player playing at the U18 level, putting up 72 points in 32 games, Cormier was voted as a runner up for Most Valuable Player in the HEO U18 league this season. Cormier has a very high motor on the ice, consistently bringing a relentless high work ethic on the ice as he does not stop moving his feet. Using his speed and drive to apply a strong forecheck to defenders, he continually forces turnovers and makes defencemen make plays with the puck faster than they would like. Cormier is always looking to use his speed and energy to attack the opposition and drive the net front area to generate quality scoring chances in the home plate area of the offensive zone. In addition to his willingness to drive the net, he also consistently looks for open ice with and without the puck so he can receive the puck and use his shot that contributes to his high-end scoring ability. With a quick release, plus speed and accuracy on his shot it is a scary sight for goaltenders seeing number 86 coming down on them.
20. Lucas Karmiris – 5’10, 160 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Brantford 99ers (Alliance)
After captaining the 99ers to an Alliance regular season title and to the Alliance championship series, Karmiris was named the Alliance U16 Player of the Year at the OHL Cup as he put up a staggering 67 points in 27 regular season games, and an additional 22 points in 9 playoff games. Moving with a purpose on the ice, whether he is in full stride or in a more relaxed position, Karmiris is continually aware of where he is on the ice and where he is looking to go. Reading and anticipating the play, Karmiris is great at accelerating at the right time up the middle on the breakout or into open space in transition where his defencemen or wingers can feed him the puck for a quick breakout of the defensive zone. With a high work ethic and strong puck skills, Karmiris battles hard down low and along the boards in all three zones, while also being poised with the puck on his stick in small areas allowing him to maneuver into space or make plays to his teammates. With a quick release on his shot, that he gets off with a great deal of power and accuracy, it is no wonder Karmiris led the Alliance in goals scoring 37 goals in 27 regular season games.
21. Jett Luchanko – 6’0, 155 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – London Jr. Knights (Alliance)
An exciting player to watch, with strong skating ability with his speed and great edgework as well as great puck skills, Luchanko finds a way to make an impact on the game in some form or another on a consistent basis. Constantly moving his feet, Luchanko is always looking to work himself into open space in transition as well as in the offensive zone, where he can use his acceleration to attack the opposition in the offensive zone. With his acceleration and speed, Luchanko is consistently a threat to burn defenders wide and drive the net as he has done so several times these season. However, even with his speed Luchanko understands how to also use his great edgework effectively to change pace on offensive zone entries and in small areas to create more time and space for himself and his teammates. With his high-end puck skills, Luchanko continually showed an ability to finish in tight on goalies, as well as set his teammates with his passing ability. While Luchanko is an impactful player offensively, with his skating, high work ethic, and quick stick, he is a player who is able to cause turnovers applying strong back pressure and quick plays to get the puck out of his own zone.
22. Carter Lowe – 6’3, 185 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)
A powerful 200-foot centreman, Lowe was a player who consistently balanced looking after his own end while also being a constant threat to create offensive opportunities for himself and his teammates. With his high hockey IQ, Lowe understands how to use his size and his reach to his advantage in all three zones. Along the boards and down low in the corners, Lowe brings a physical presence, finishing his checks and forcing turnovers, while also using his longer reach effectively to takeaway lanes for opposing players and stealing pucks with an active stick on the backcheck. While in the offensive zone he makes himself available to receive the puck from his teammates as he is strong at finding open space in the high slot/top of the circle area where he displays his quick and powerful shot. Lowe supports his defencemen deep in his own zone and is really strong at being on time when accelerating up the middle on the breakout, allowing his wingers or defencemen to feed him the puck in stride resulting in a smooth and efficient zone exit.
23. Jacob Battaglia – 6’1, 203 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
An aggressive skilled power forward, Battaglia plays the game with a great deal of confidence and swagger using his size and puck skills to attack opposing players. Being a player with the size and power that he has plus his high-level puck skills Battaglia can play any style of game. With his powerful skating and the physicality that he brings to the ice, he consistently looks to finish his checks and intimidate the opposition with his size and strength. Even with his ability to play the physical game, Battaglia has an element of skill with his ability to handle the puck and use his skating, the winger is able to shift directions and weave through defenders in transition and in the offensive zone, opening himself and his teammates up for scoring opportunities. As a powerful skater, Battaglia uses this to his advantage to attack the opposition in transition, playing aggressively, and attacking the triangle in the offensive zone with and without the puck. He is consistently ready to receive pucks from his linemates with his stick presented in a position where he can quickly use his powerful shot as soon as he gets the puck.
24. Luca Testa – 6’0, 167 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Niagara North Stars (SCTA)
You know you are going to turn a lot of heads when you put almost three points per game in your league this season and lead your league in scoring by a ten-goal difference. Testa was putting up video game like numbers this season in the SCTA, with his 59 points in 22 regular season games Testa broke the Niagara North U16 scoring record. An elite offensive player with high end scoring ability, Testa posses an elite shot that he consistently used to beat goaltenders with this year. With a quick release with tons of speed on his shot Testa, is able to get his shot off both his inside and outside leg, in stride, or change the angle with the curl and drag. Dangerous in space, he creates lots of scoring opportunities with his feet and puck skills, attacking the opposition in stride unafraid to shoot from distance or attack head on and drive the net and use his elite hands to finish in tight. An exciting aspect about Testa is the fact that he is already a tall player, but he is still growing and filling out which will only make him even tougher to handle at the next level.
25. Braedyn Rogers – 5’10, 171 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Quinte Red Devils (ETA)
A smooth skating offensive defenceman, Rogers made up half of what could be considered one of the top defencemen pairings in U16 AAA this season with Ben Danford. With his poise and smooth skating ability with good edges Rogers has shown he has the ability to skate the puck out of his own zone as the primary puck carrier on the breakout. Rogers uses good footwork and his quick stick to prevent easy zone entries for the opposition, as well as steal pucks from the opposition and defend will in his own zone.. In the offensive zone and walking that offensive blue line is where Rogers looks the most comfortable. He is able to use his mobility effectively to open up lanes to the net, where he could use his powerful shot from the point. Although he has the ability to find the back of the net with his great shot from the point, you won’t often see Rogers looking to pick that top corner on the net with his point shots, as he understands what he needs to do to get his shots through to the net to create rebounds and opportunities for his forwards around the net front area.
26. Liam Greentree – 6’2, 185 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Markham Majors (GTHL)
A player who brings the energy every time he steps on the ice, Greentree is a player whose passion for the game shines through every time he laces up his skates. With his outstanding play this year, Greentree has continually risen up rankings all season long, with his high-end puck skills and elite shot. The winger is able to work really well in small areas with his quick hands contributing to his high-end skill, he combines his good footwork with his quick hands to remain poised in small spaces and weave through sticks and into open ice. With his high-end scoring ability, powered by his elite shot Greentree does not need a great deal of time to set up his shot. He possesses a very quick release not allowing goalies time to set up and puts himself into spots where he can use his shot, as he also gets a great deal speed and accuracy on his shot often beating goalies clean with his shot. While he has these high-end offensive abilities, Greentree also understands how to use his big frame to protect the puck and drive the net creating scoring chances in the home plate area, while also finishing his checks establishing a hard forecheck.
27. Gabriel Frasca – 6’0, 165 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
With two older brothers already in the OHL, Gabriel will surely be joining his brothers as the third Frasca to debut in the OHL next season. While being a highly skilled centre, Frasca is unique in the sense that despite having that high-end skill and offensive abilities, he still consistently finds a way to play a really good all-around game. Starting in his own end, Frasca is a centreman who comes back down the middle in his own, consistently supporting his defencemen down low below the goal line, being available for short slip passes on the breakout as well as picking up loose pucks below the goal line and helping to start the breakout. Frasca has a high hockey IQ and high work ethic on the ice, utilizing both to put himself in good positions in all three zones to receive the puck, along with using his compete to win puck battles. Offensively, Frasca has shown he can score from different areas in the offensive zone, unafraid to drive the net front area and pick up loose pucks. He also has a great shot release that he can beat with goalies with quick accurate shots, while also showing this season that he has the ability to set up his teammates for offensive scoring chances.
28. Justin Huynh – 5’10, 195 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
An offensive defenceman with a high hockey IQ, Huynh was seen consistently quarterbacking a talented Sens team with a deep and talented forward group. Huynh isn’t necessarily the type of defenceman to blow you away with breakneck speed while rushing up ice, however he brings a smart calculated style of game where he understands how to use his edges to open up more time and space for himself in his own zone, and in transition. He reads the play well on the breakout, depending on what is available to him he he can find his forwards with breakout passes, while also being able to use his feet and puck handling to draw forecheckers into him to open up his teammates, where he can then quickly distribute the puck. Huynh is great at maneuvering himself along the offensive line with and without the puck, recognizing opportunities to activate from the point into open space becoming a pass option for his teammates. While with the puck on the point Huynh sees the ice so well, finding his teammates while also using his feet to open up passing and shooting lanes.
29. Marek Vanacker – 6’1, 164 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Brantford 99ers (Alliance)
Although he missed the first four games of the season while nursing an injury, Vanacker came back and showed why he is one of the top players eligible for the 2022 OHL Priority Selection tallying 45 points in 23 games in the regular season for the 99ers. Playing that power forward style of game, Vanacker uses his feet and his size bring a strong forechecking presence, consistently getting into the offensive zone quickly and finishing his checks on defencmen. Utilizing his size effectively, Vanacker drives the net with the puck, where he is then able to display his puck skills and finishing ability to score in tight on goalies. With his skating and high work ethic, Vanacker gets back on the backcheck hard applying relentless back pressure, while also utilizing his feet in the defensive zone to close out quickly on puck carriers and separate man from the puck with his physicality.
30. Justin Bottineau – 6’0, 165 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)
A high IQ centreman with a high-end puck skills and a high work ethic, Bottineau plays the game with a great deal of confidence and is a player with upside to be excited about for any team that drafts him. With his compete and awareness, Bottineau has continued to develop his 200-foot game where he gives just as much on the defensive side of the puck as he does on the offensive end. Within his own zone, the centre puts himself in good positions to keep the opposition to the perimeter of the ice, using an active stick to clog passing lanes, while also displaying a willingness to get in shooting lanes and sacrifice the body blocking shots. He is a player who can drive the play up ice, using his vision, poise high-end skill with the puck, and playmaking ability to create scoring chances for his linemates, also displaying a willingness to go to the net front area to bang in loose pucks and finish in tight with his skill.
31. Riley Patterson – 6’0, 180 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
A player who can impact the game in a multitude of ways, Patterson has the ability to change the game with his skating, skill, and scoring ability, while also bringing an element of physicality whenever he steps on the ice. Patterson consistently displayed a willingness to drive the puck up ice himself as a primary puck carrier, utilizing his speed and power to accelerate into open ice. As a forward with the strength that he has, Patterson was unafraid to combine his speed and body to protect the puck and drive the net front area creating quality scoring chances for himself and his teammates. Patterson possesses a powerful shot, that he can get off in stride and from different areas on the ice. While Patterson showed to be a constant threat offensively for the Sens, he also impacted the game with his body physically. Utilizing his size on the forecheck, finishing his checks to force turnovers, while also showing a willingness to take hits to make plays with the puck, whether it be to get the puck in deep or to get the puck out on the breakout.
32. Sam O’Rielly – 6’2, 175 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Vaughan Kings (GTHL)
With a high hockey IQ to go with size, strength, and a high-end shot, O’Rielly plays a strong all-around game who would be a welcome addition to any line at the next level. With his bigger body, O’Rielly is able to play a physical game, consistently finishing his checks on both the forecheck and backcheck. The intriguing part about him is the fact that while he is already one of the bigger players in the age group, when you watch O’Rielly it is clear he is still growing and filling out, which will make an already tough player down low even tougher. O’Rielly has an understanding and awareness of where to go on in the offensive zone, moving into open high quality scoring areas, where he displays his scoring ability from distance. The winger has an electric shot which he has used to beat goaltenders countless times this season, where the puck snaps off his stick with quickness and a great deal of power. On the defensive side, O’Rielly understands how to use his long stick to force turnovers and has consistently been an effective player on the penalty kill and at even strength in his own zone, with his understanding of where needs to be in his own zone to help transition from defence to offence.
33. Ethan Toms – 5’10, 175 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Quinte Red Devils (ETA)
A strong two-way centre with a high hockey IQ, Toms was consistently matched up against opposing teams top players as he was able to play a strong shut down game. With calculated movements, Toms consistently understands how to be one step ahead, anticipating the play and putting himself into open areas to receive the puck. Toms has high end puck skills, vision, and playmaking ability. He can identify passing lanes and can thread the needle making cross ice passes setting up his teammates for quality scoring opportunities. While Toms is outstanding at finding his teammates, he also showed late in the season he was able to beat goaltenders with a quick release on his shot, coming up with some clutch goals at the OHL Cup, including an overtime goal against Waterloo to vault Quinte into the quarterfinals and then scored the game-winning short-handed goal against the Toronto Marlboros to power the Red Devils into the semifinals. As a two-way centre Toms does not cheat for offence, as he anticipates the play well coming out of the offensive zone and he is able to be an early forward back supporting his defencemen off the rush. In his own zone, Toms does not allow much as he establishes good positioning coming back down to the home plate area of the defensive zone and coming down low to support his defencemen as quick slip pass option to help start the breakout. Toms was also consistently a centre who his coaches relied upon to take big faceoffs late in games in his own zone.
34. Antonio Tersigni – 5’11, 168 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL)
A tenacious player who consistently brought a high work ethic and strong two-way game to the ice, Tersigni is a player who developed a lot over the course of the season being a part of one of the most dangerous lines in U16 AAA this season, featuring himself, Porter Martone, and Jack Van Volsen. Not backing down from anyone in the corners, Tersigni is tough to play against down low establishing a strong forecheck and winning puck battles, as he constantly moves his feet and brings a level of physicality that opposing defenders do not enjoy battling against. With his strong awareness on the ice, he continually knew where his teammates are and finds ways to get them the puck in open space. Tersigni was consistently a scoring threat in both transition and the offensive zone. Utilizing his speed to get into open ice and separate from defenders off the rush, Tersigni was able to beat goalies clean with quick-accurate shots in stride, while also displaying an ability to score from in tight on the net as well, moving himself to where he could use his skill to finish at the net front. With the ability to play both centre and wing, Tersigni is a player who understands the importance of being strong defensively, being a player who is relentless on the backcheck and sets himself in good position in the defensive zone to receive outlet passes, as well as efficiently get the puck out to his linemates.
35. Parker Forlin – 5’8, 160 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Niagara North Stars (SCTA)
One of the smartest players not just in the SCTA but overall in U16 AAA, Forlin may not be the biggest player on the ice, but with his poise, high end skill, and high hockey IQ he consistently made an impact on both offence and defence. Forlin understands how to use his skating to create more time and space for himself to make plays with the puck, using his edges to change his pace while also displaying quick bursts of speed to take an advantage of little openings defenders may give him. While he can create more time and space, Forlin consistently played the game with a great deal poise rarely panicking in small areas when facing pressure, constantly being aware of where his teammates are and being able to use his playmaking ability to distribute the puck quickly. Utilizing his hip pocket to protect and handle the puck, Forlin was continually a threat to distribute the puck to a teammate or drive it himself and be a threat to score. Although many know about Forlin’s IQ and passing ability, an underrated element to his game is his ability to put the puck in the back of the net himself, with a deceptive shot that he can change his release angle on with a curl and drag, as well as quick release with pinpoint accuracy. Defensively, Forlin was a player who understood where he needed to be in his own zone, establishing good defensive positioning, and using his quick stick to steal pucks and cause turnovers.
36. Brodie McConnell-Barker – 6’0, 170 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – London Jr. Knights (Alliance)
A versatile player with a high hockey IQ, McConnell-Barker has the ability to play both defence and forward despite primarily playing defence. Similar to his older brother Bryce of the Soo Greyhounds, Brodie is an outstanding skater with both great footspeed and edgework. He has a great deal of confidence in his skating ability; and for good reason, allowing him to have a great deal of poise with the puck on his stick, as he uses his skating effectively to create more time and space to make plays both on the breakout and on the point in the offensive zone. In the offensive zone, McConnell has no problems rotating into open spaces without the puck, sneaking in from the point for a back door pass, or drawing a defender towards himself to open up more space for his teammates. With his skating he is also great at walking the line and opening up more passing and shooting lanes from the point, using his vision to set up his teammates as well as get pucks through to the net. McConnell-Barker has continually developed on the defensive side of the puck, consistently making a strong a first pass out of his own zone.
37. Caden Kelly – 5’10, 171 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
With a great blend of grit/toughness and skill, Kelly is a 200-foot player who loves to shoot the puck and create offence for his team. Consistently bringing a high work ethic, Kelly doesn’t stop moving his feet on both ends of the ice, hunting down pucks in the offensive zone to establish a strong forecheck and win puck battles down low, while being relentless on the backcheck to force turnovers. In his own, Kelly contributes to an efficient breakout, quickly getting pucks out of the zone and displaying a willingness to take hits to make a play to get the puck out of the zone. On offence, Kelly has the puck skills to dazzle you, as well as a quick and accurate shot he used to beat goaltenders. With his hockey sense, Kelly has the offensive awareness to maneuver into open areas in the offensive zone where he can get shooting/scoring opportunities.
38. Nathan Aspinall – 6’3, 154 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Markham Waxers (ETA)
A prospect with a lot to look forward to, it is easy to see the potential with an already big body and still getting stronger, Aspinall thinks the game well, and has a high level of skill and poise with the puck. A special thing about Aspinall is awareness and understanding of where he needs to be in all three zones and when he needs to be at those spots. Breaking out of his own zone he doesn’t cheat for offence, and when in the offensive zone he is able to maneuver into those soft areas around the net front area making himself available for his teammates to feed him the puck. When given the puck down low, Aspinall utilizes his puck skills really well to manipulate the defence to set up his teammates, as well as show great finishing ability in tight on goalies with his great hands.
39. Jacob Therrien – 5’6, 152 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Clarington Toros (ETA)
Don’t be fooled by his smaller size, because Therrien is a highly skilled winger who has a great shot and plays with tons of energy and tenacity, making life miserable for opposing defenceman. A player who loves to attack the defence both off the rush and on the cycle, Therrien has consistently shown that he plays fearless and is unafraid to go at bigger defencemen in battles. With his speed and skill, he is consistently looking to accelerate into open ice, and utilize his speed to drive past defencemen and into holes in the offensive zone creating offensive opportunities for himself and his teammates. Therrien possesses high-end scoring ability, being able to finish in tight with a deke or from distance with a quick-hard shot. Whether his team is up in the game or trailing by a few goals, you know that Therrien is going to give you everything he’s got till the final buzzer with his tenacity and high compete.
40. Hunter McKenzie – 6’0, 190 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Halton Hurricanes (SCTA)
A two-way centre who his coaches consistently trusted to matchup against the oppositions top players, McKenzie plays a physical game, with a quick strong stick, and a wicked shot. McKenzie has a great shot, which he loves to use, as he is great at working himself into space to get his shot off. It has a great deal of velocity and when he gets it on net it is extremely tough for goaltenders to handle. The centreman brings a high work ethic to the which contributes to him being such a strong two-way centre, as he applies a strong forecheck constantly moving his feet and finishing his checks on opposing defencemen, and then he works just hard to hunt down players on the backcheck breaking up rushes and causing all sorts of turnovers. McKenzie possesses a strong stick using it to protect the puck really well, as well as steal pucks and block passing lanes causing turnovers.
41. Tyler Graham – 5’11, 203 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Cambridge Hawks (Alliance)
A leader in multiple ways for his team this season, Graham captained his team to an Alliance playoff berth while leading his team in scoring with 36 points in 30 regular season games. Already a very mature player with a great deal of strength, Graham is a player who is already physically ready to play at the next level. The centreman was a physically dominant player using his strength effectively to consistently finishing his checks and laying painful hits to separate man from puck, causing turnovers as a result. Graham possesses a very heavy shot that he is definitely not afraid to use, recognizing open areas he needs to go to, to be able to utilize his shot.
42. Hunter McKnight – 6’1, 176 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Brockville Braves U18 (HEO)
Playing on a Brockville U18 team that didn’t have as much success this season as they would have liked, McKnight had almost a point per game in 30 games this season scoring 26 points in the regular season. McKnight uses his size and strength down low to win battles for pucks, as well as to provide good protection and drive the net front area for scoring chances. McKnight does well at moving into open spaces in the offensive zone, where he can receive pucks and utilize his heavy shot to score goals.
43. Tate Vader – 5’11, 185 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Huron Perth Lakers (Alliance)
A strong all-around player who likes to play with creativity, Vader captained his team to an upset of Waterloo in the Alliance quarterfinals, and a berth in the OHL Cup. The centreman established a great deal of consistency this season, being the type of player where the coach knows they going to get 110 percent out of him every shift. With his high motor and quick feet, Vader is a strong forechecker who likes to finish his checks bringing a level of physicality that forces defenders to make quick decisions with the puck, while he also applies his strong motor on the backcheck as well. He is constantly aware of where he is in all three zones, finding soft areas where he can receive the puck in transition or in quality scoring areas in the offensive zone. With a quick shot to go with his high level of creativity, Vader is continually finding new ways to create offence for himself and his teammates.
44. Parker Von Richter – 6’2, 175 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)
A physical defenceman who is reliable in his own end while also displaying offensive capabilities, Von Richter uses his hockey sense, skating, shot, and strength to be a tough defenceman to play against. Von Richter defends well off the rush, using his feet and stick to maintain a good gap and eventually use his physicality to break up offensive zone entries for oncoming players. Poised in his own zone, Von Richter does not panic under pressure and is able to consistently make a strong first pass on the breakout. While being effective in his own end, the defenceman has also showed a willingness to jump up into the rush both with and without the puck creating offensive opportunities for himself and his team as a result. At the point, Von Richter sees the ice well he anticipates plays well and his able to hold the offensive line consistently helping lead extended offensive zone time for his team. Von Richter also has a heavy shot from the point which he finds ways to get through to the net.
45. Callum Cheynowski – 5’11, 170 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – Southern Tier Admirals (SCTA)
An aggressive offensive defenceman, Cheynowski is a player who may sneak under a lot of radars as he was driving force from the backend for his Admirals team. Often getting top matchups against opponents top player, Cheynowski is a great skater with an explosive stride that allows him to close off angles on opponents as well as quickly get back in position if he caught out. With his skating, the defenceman also uses a great active stick to break up offensive opportunities, finding ways to quickly lift sticks or knock pucks loose at the right time. Offensively, he is unafraid to take advantage of any space ahead of him, exploding into space and rushing up ice as the primary puck carrier into the offensive zone when the opportunity presents itself. With a powerful shot, when Cheynowski gets the puck through to the net, it is extremely tough to spot with the amount of power and velocity he gets on his shots.
46. Tyron Fevry – 5’8, 207 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Toronto Red Wings (GTHL)
A powerful player who is dangerous offensively, Fevry is an explosive winger with tons of strength physically, and a high-end shot release. Fevry is a player that can look very relaxed one second, and then show bursts of speed to attack loose pucks and the opposition. With his quick feet and speed, Fevry is can back the defence up and then utilize his edges really well to buy more time for himself surveying the ice and letting his teammates catch up, providing him more offensive options. With his strength and power, Fevry is very strong at protecting pucks being strong on his feet and stick and tough to knock off the puck. The winger is a player who loves to shoot the puck, and for good reason too. With his quick release and the power and speed he gets on his shots, makes it tough to stop for goalies and makes anyone standing behind the glass flinch.
47. Nathan Schaap – 6’1, 207 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – North Central Predators (ETA)
An offensive defenceman with size and strength, Schaap is a player who plays up tempo and consistently looks to be aggressive offensively while being tough to play against down low in his own zone. Looking for open ice in front of him, Schaap is poised with the puck being quick to skate the puck out of his own even with the smallest of openings using his feet to explode into space and at times being the primary puck carrier breaking out of his own zone. Being one of the bigger players on the ice with a great deal of power and strength, Schaap uses his body to be physical down low finishing his checks and also being strong on his skates, displaying a willingness to take hits to make plays to get the puck out the defensive zone. At the point in the offensive zone, Schaap possesses a heavy shot which he finds ways to consistently get through to the net, making it tough to handle for goalies.
48. Josh Lepain – 6’1, 165 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Windsor Zone Jr. Spitfires (Alliance)
After having a strong season through 21 games with 31 points and leading his team in scoring, Lepain’s season got cut short due to an injury. However, despite the injury Lepain showed why he was consistently one of the most impactful players in the Alliance this season. Using his size and reach to his advantage Lepain comes out of battles with the puck and has no issue using his size to attack the front of the net with and without the puck. With his high level of puck skills, Lepain was consistently able to capitalize on his scoring opportunities around the net, displaying poise with the puck to beat goaltenders with quick shots over goalies or quick dekes as well.
49. Braydon McCallum – 5’9, 158 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Brantford 99ers (Alliance)
Even though he may be a smaller player in terms of his stature and height on the ice, McCallum plays with an edge, getting under opposing player’s skin, finishing his checks, while also using his skill and skating to impact the game offensively. McCallum can wow you with his speed and skill, utilizing his feet to drive into open areas and past defenders, where he can use his skills to make plays with the puck to his teammates or create a chance for himself. Playing a fearless, high compete game, McCallum does not shy away from being physical against players who are bigger than him, unafraid to drive the net and use his skill and scoring ability to finish in tight. He also uses his high compete to outwork opposing defenders in the offensive zone, while also applying this tenacity on the defensive side of the puck to backcheck hard and force turnovers.
50. Cole Davis – 5’9, 158 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – York Simcoe Express (ETA)
Unfortunately, due to an upper body injury Davis was unable to participate in the OMHA Championships and OHL Cup. However, with his high level of skill, and smooth skating he played a very big role in helping his team reach both events. Davis is an agile player with great edges, using his skating effectively to both attack the defence, and create more time and space for himself and his teammates by changing his pace. Davis put his high-end skill on display countless times this season, combining his puck skills with his fearlessness to drive the net front area and consistently finish on his scoring opportunities.
51. Luke Ellinas – 6’1, 176 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
Although he missed the vast majority of his U16 season due to an injury, Ellinas showed early in the season why he was high on draft boards, and still even while injured managed to show why he should remain a highly ranked player due to his high work ethic, working on his skating and other aspects of his game whilst not being able to participate in games. When playing, Ellinas is a two-way centre who brings a high work ethic to the ice, consistently able to win 50/50 puck battles, unafraid to mix it up in the corners and attack the front of the net using his size to protect the puck and be strong on his feet.
52. Rowan Topp – 6’2, 190 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
Joining the Rangers this season, Topp is an intimidating defenceman with both his size and willingness to play a very physical game not giving anything up easy in his own zone. Topp is a mobile defenceman who has shown a willingness to use his feet and jump up in the offence. However, the two biggest things that standout when watching Topp are his physicality and his shot. With the size and strength that he has, Topp understands that he needs to use these to his advantage and does so effectively. Breaking up offensive rushes or cycles by using his long reach with his stick to angle opponents off and finishing his checks on opponents, often laying massive hits in the process. Topp uses his feet on the offensive blue line effectively to move himself into spots on the point where he can utilize his powerful shot that has a great deal of power and velocity on it. His slap shot is extremely hard to handle, but he also has developed an increased situational awareness of when to use his slap shot and when to use a quick snapshot to get the puck through to the net.
53. Jack Dean – 5’10, 185 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Markham Majors (GTHL)
A high compete two-way centreman, Dean was a standout player with the Majors on both ends of the ice due to his high work ethic, puck skills, hockey sense, and great shot. On both the forecheck and backcheck, Dean does not stop moving his feet causing defencemen trouble in the offensive zone, while also providing good support for his own defencemen in the defensive zone. The centreman comes back down between the dots, supporting his defencemen, taking away passing lanes with his quick stick, and breaking up offensive zone time with his body. Dean does well in transition and off the cycle to protect the puck, while also moving into open spots in the triangle area without the puck to receive passes or pick up loose pucks. Dangerous when left alone, Dean has a wicked release on his shot which he can get off in stride with good velocity and accuracy to beat goaltenders.
54. Rory Gilmour – 5’11, 154 lbs – Defence – Left Shot – Kemptville 73’s U18 (HEO)
A mobile puck moving defenceman who some may consider undersized plays bigger than he is, Gilmour is aggressive and poised in his own while also being a defenceman who can quarterback at the point in the offensive zone. Whether he goes up against players smaller or bigger than him in battles, Gilmour is aggressive down low, understanding how to use his size to leverage opposing players off of pucks, still playing physical and finishing his checks when he has the chance to. Gilmour helps to transition out of his zone quickly, using his feet to escape pressure and make strong first passes out of the defensive zone. Offensively, he uses his mobility effectively to walk the offensive line to open up shooting and passing lanes, while also recognizing space to rotate into to be able to receive pucks for scoring opportunities.
55. Dean Letourneau – 6’5, 181 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Renfrew Wolves U18 (HEO)
Leading his team in rookie scoring this season with 35 points in 32 regular season games while also being voted as a runner up for the HEO U18 Top Prospect award, Letourneau is an intriguing prospect due to his blend of size, skill, and finishing ability. Letourneau understands how to use his size and reach effectively to win puck battles, as well as bring a presence to the front of the net not making it easy for goaltenders to see or defencemen to defend down low in their own zone. The centreman plays with a great deal of creativity, continually looking to create offensive chances for himself and his teammates and has displayed strong scoring ability with his high-level puck skills.
56. Daniel Vasic – 5’11, 182 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – York Simcoe Express (ETA)
Leading his team in scoring this season with 33 points in 27 games, Vasic was a pivotal part in helping the Express to an OMHA Championship win. Bringing the energy to the ice, Vasic is tough to stop when given open ice in front of him, as he uses good acceleration to move into space and attack defencemen pushing defencemen back to create space for himself to go to work offensively. The centreman has an electric shot with a quick and powerful release that he has shown he is willing to shoot from anywhere in the offensive zone but is very tough for goalies to read.
57. Christopher Brown – 5’11, 165 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
A smooth skating and shifty centreman, Brown uses his edges, puck skills, and on-ice awareness really well to create offence for himself and his teammates. Brown loves to mohawk around the ice, using the edgework to generate speed and evade checks from defenders. He consistently keeps his head up while mohawking around the ice with the puck on his stick, surveying the ice and being aware of where his teammates are on the ice. Aggressive offensively, and with his ability to evade checkers, Brown is not afraid to attack the triangle and take the puck to the net himself. Brown maintains puck possession well with his ability to handle pucks well and is able to create a great deal of scoring chances for himself and his teammates finding passing lanes and having good finishing ability.
58. Kashawn Aitcheson – 6’1, 172 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – North York Rangers (GTHL)
A mobile defenceman who has a great blend of physicality and skill, Aitcheson plays the game with a great deal of poise and confidence. Starting in his own zone, Aitcheson uses his feet well control the play in his own zone, turning away from pressure and starting the breakout out of the defensive zone. When defending Aitcheson can play a physical game, looking to take the body off the rush and in his own zone, while also consistently being aware of his surroundings on the ice. Aitcheson is a defenceman who while being able to play physical defensively, he is a player who will look for opportunities to join the offence, whether it be as a primary puck carrier or as the third or 4th man up ice. He has a strong shot from the point which he is able to get through to the net, by using his mobility on the offensive to open up seams.
59. Brayden Turley – 6’1, 185 lbs. – Defence – Left Shot – Mississauga Senators (GTHL)
A mobile defenceman who plays up tempo from the backend, Turley utilizes his feet really well in his own zone to create more time and space and move the puck quickly up ice. With his quick feet, Turley is able to transition from forwards to backwards and vise versa really smoothly using this defend well in his own zone, while also reacting well to pressure with his feet and moving into open space. When given time and space, Turley can consistently connect on breakout passes to his forwards, allowing his team to quickly transition from defence to offence. The defenceman is able to use his skating to walk the offensive line and use a quick shot to get pucks through to the net.
60. Masen Wray – 6’1, 154 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – North Bay Trappers U16 (GNML)
A player who impressed a lot at the OHL Cup with team Northern Ontario Hockey Association, Wray has a blend of size, speed, and skill that has allowed him to be an impactful player for North Bay this season. Wray uses his speed to play an aggressive brand of hockey, attacking the defence with and without the puck. Using his physicality, Wray is strong in puck battles finding ways to come out with pucks, while also using his size to finish his checks on the forecheck putting pressure on defencemen and separating man from puck. With his high-level puck skills and scoring ability Wray gets into quality scoring areas and is able to continually capitalize on his chances, while also creating opportunities for his teammates.
Honourable Mentions (Listed in Alphabetical order by Last Name):
Thomas Dickey – 6’1, 172 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Carleton Place Canadiens U18 (HEO)
Sean Doherty – 5’10, 157 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Ajax/Pickering Raiders (ETA)
Anthony Giacalone – 6’0, 175 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Markham Majors (GTHL)
Carson Hall – 6’2, 180 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Markham Majors (GTHL)
Nolan Newton – 5’9, 164 lbs. – Forward – Right Shot – Sudbury Nickel Capital U16 (GNML)
Kaden Pitre – 6’0, 178 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Vaughan Kings (GTHL)
Caton Ryan – 6’0, 172 lbs. – Forward – Left Shot – Carleton Place Canadiens U18 (HEO)
Mathew Virgilio – 5’11, 183 lbs. – Defence – Right Shot – St. Andrews College (Prep)