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Malhotra, Gallacher, Hankai & Testa Lead Bulldogs’ 4–1 Victory

October 26, 2025

Brantford Bulldogs 4 vs Oshawa Generals 1 (OHL)

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Z Morris

#27 C Caleb Malhotra, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL), 6’1” 175lbs, L, DOB 06.02.2008

Malhotra played one of his more well-rounded games and showed off his creativity throughout the game. His status as a top prospect in this year’s draft was clear throughout the game. He displayed strong skating mechanics, good playmaking instincts, and poise with the puck. He was at the heart of several scoring chances, using his vision and deceptive puck movement to generate scoring opportunities for teammates. Malhotra’s skating stood out immediately, as he used quick crossovers and clean pivots to generate speed and get by defenders. His edgework allowed him to shift directions fluidly, maintaining control of the puck while scanning for the ice for his teammates. He seamlessly transitions from forward-to-backward skating, which helped him defensively and stay involved on puck retrievals. Offensively, Malhotra’s playmaking instincts and creativity were on full display. His best moment came off a highlight-worthy through-the-legs, no-look pass that completely froze a defender and set up a quality scoring chance. It was a perfect example of his confidence and flair. He used subtle body fakes throughout the game to get defenders to bite, opening up passing and shooting lanes. His vision and timing on zone entries and half-wall plays made him a consistent facilitator of possession. He also performed well in the faceoff circle, demonstrating quick reactions and strong technique to win draws. Defensively, he held his own but was not dominant, relying on positioning rather than physical engagement. While his compete level was evident, he could add more assertiveness off the puck and in board battles, which would help elevate his game. Caleb Malhotra continues to evolve into a dynamic playmaking centre with smooth skating and high-end offensive instincts. His edgework, deception, and vision make him a creative force in transition and the offensive zone, capable of breaking down defensive structures with clever movement and precise passing. While adding more physical competitiveness and defensive pressure will enhance his completeness, Malhotra’s poise, puck control, and creativity already make him a standout talent for Brantford. He has all the tools to be an impact player at the next level and has the potential to be a top-six center. 

Skater Category Summarization

Skating: 8

Speed/Pace: 7 

Puck Skill: 7.5

Scoring Ability: 7

Playmaking Ability: 8  

Hockey Sense/IQ: 7

Character: 6

Physicality: 5

Defence: 5

October 26, 2025

Brantford Bulldogs 4 vs Oshawa Generals 1 (OHL)

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Z Morris

#73 C Layne Gallacher, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL), 6’1” 165lbs, L, DOB 02.16.2008

Gallacher showcased his elite skating and puck-carrying ability in Brantford’s 4–1 win over Oshawa, using his speed and control to consistently push the pace of play. Though he wasn’t heavily involved on the scoresheet, his ability to generate controlled entries and transition through traffic stood out as one of the more dynamic elements of the Bulldogs’ offence. His skill was on display almost every time he touched the puck. His speed was immediately noticeable, as he displayed the ability to accelerate effortlessly through the neutral zone and separate from defenders along the boards. He had a highlight play when he carried the puck from deep in his own zone, blazing up the ice along the boards and zipping past multiple defenders before creating a quality scoring chance. His skating stride is fluid and powerful, allowing him to cover ground quickly without breaking stride. With the puck, Gallacher demonstrated strong hands and confidence, maintaining control even at full speed. He kept his head up throughout rushes, reading lanes and scanning for options rather than simply relying on speed alone. His puck skill and composure under pressure enabled him to navigate tight spaces and retain possession in transition. Even though his offence and zone entries were impressive, Gallacher’s play off the puck remains an area to develop. He wasn’t overly physical and had limited involvement on defence. If he continues to mature physically and refine his defensive game, he has the potential to be a more well-rounded player. Gallacher displayed the traits of a high-end transitional centre, highlighted by his elite skating, puck control, and ability to attack with pace. His ability to carry the puck from zone to zone with control makes him a natural play-driver, and his confidence handling the puck at top speed shows advanced composure for his age. As he continues to mature and round out his defensive and physical game, Gallacher projects as a dangerous offensive weapon capable of leading rushes and generating momentum for his team.

Skater Category Summarization

Skating: 8

Speed/Pace: 7.5 

Puck Skill: 8

Scoring Ability: 7 

Playmaking Ability: 7.5  

Hockey Sense/IQ: 6.5

Character: 6

Physicality: 5

Defence: 5

October 26, 2025

Brantford Bulldogs 4 vs Oshawa Generals 1 (OHL)

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Z Morris

#76 D Cameron Hankai, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL), 6’2” 205lbs, L, DOB 03.22.2007

Hankai played a steady and assertive defensive game, Brantford’s win showcasing excellent skating mechanics, a solid physical presence, and responsible play in his own end. The defenseman blended mobility with strength, anchoring the Bulldogs’ defensive zone and contributing effectively to the transition game. Early in the game, Hankai set the tone with a clean, well-timed hit on an attacker entering the defensive zone, immediately establishing his physical presence. His strong skating was a significant asset. He picked up speed quickly using crossovers and transitioned smoothly from backward to forward skating, allowing him to stay tight to opposing rushes and recover efficiently. His pivots were sharp, enabling quick changes in direction. He was able to keep up with the Generals’ attackers thanks to his strong skating. With the puck, he was confident but conservative. He showed decent puck-carrying ability and made simple, effective plays up the ice. While his stickhandling is functional but not flashy, he used his puck protection skills well, shielding opponents and maintaining possession during breakouts. Defensively, he relied on a strong stick. He had numerous well-timed poke checks and stick lifts, during which he either disrupted plays or stole the puck. To take his game to the next level, he needs to improve his decision-making in offensive situations. At times, Hankai appeared too eager to join the rush, occasionally taking unnecessary risks that led to opportunities for the other team. However, his defensive recovery speed and physical presence often limited the impact of those lapses. He continues to develop into a dependable, mobile two-way defenseman with strong defensive fundamentals and growing confidence carrying the puck. His skating, physicality, and positional awareness were key assets in limiting Oshawa’s scoring chances, and his ability to recover quickly made him a stabilizing force on the blue line. As he refines his offensive decision-making and situational awareness, Hankai projects as a reliable top-four defenseman with shutdown potential and transitional upside.

Skater Category Summarization

Skating: 7.5

Speed/Pace: 7 

Puck Skill: 7

Scoring Ability: 6

Playmaking Ability: 7 

Hockey Sense/IQ: 6 

Character: 6

Physicality: 7.5

Defence: 8

October 26, 2025

Brantford Bulldogs 4 vs Oshawa Generals 1 (OHL)

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Z Morris

#91 C Luca Testa, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL), 6’1” 184lbs, L, DOB 04.10.2006

Luca Testa put together a high-effort, physically engaged performance. He contributed through his relentless forechecking, puck protection, and clever stickwork. While not the flashiest player on the ice, Testa’s consistency, work ethic, and two-way reliability were evident throughout the game. From the drop of the puck, Testa played with a high compete level, constantly applying pressure on Oshawa’s defenders and forcing turnovers through an active stick and persistent puck pursuit. His forechecking presence was a key factor in sustaining offensive zone time for Brantford. He did a good job of using his frame and strength to protect the puck and fend off attackers effectively once he gained possession. He cleanly stripped opposing players of the puck and transitioned play up ice. His puck-handling skills were evident, and while he didn’t take many offensive risks, he made smart, simple plays that maintained team structure. He demonstrated his well-rounded and smart play throughout the game. Defensively, Testa provided strong backchecking support, positioning himself well to clog shooting lanes and support his defensemen. His character and compete level were clear assets, as he battled in all areas of the ice and stayed engaged on every shift. While his offensive creativity remains limited, his combination of effort, awareness, and responsible play makes him a reliable two-way centreman. Testa exemplified responsible, hard-nosed hockey, providing value through effort, discipline, and intelligent two-way play. His strong puck protection, active stick, and relentless forecheck gave Brantford an edge in puck battles and zone time. While not a high-end offensive creator, his reliability and leadership-by-example approach make him an invaluable presence in all situations.

Skater Category Summarization

Skating: 7

Speed/Pace: 7 

Puck Skill: 7

Scoring Ability: 6 

Playmaking Ability: 6.5  

Hockey Sense/IQ: 6

Character: 7.5

Physicality: 6

Defence: 6.5