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

WHL Red Deer (2) @ Moose Jaw (3) (OT) November 9, 2025 @ 15:00

Beckett Hamilton, #21 Red Deer Rebels – March 28, 2008, Right shot centre, 5.10 / 173

Strength: Hamilton is an offensive minded forward. In this viewing he was about 25% in the face off circle. Does a good job stripping pucks and gaining possession from the opposition. Reliable centreman on the PK1 unit.

Opportunity: Needs to finish his checks more consistently and challenge goaltenders more often with his shot.

Projection: 6th round

Skating: 5

Shooting: 5

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 5

Hockey IQ: 5

Physicality: 5

Offensive upside: 5

Defensive upside: 5

Jan Trefny, #43 Moose Jaw Warriors – March 16, 2008, Left shot left wing, 5.11 / 172

Strength: Trefny is a reliable 2-way forward with solid defensive instincts. Jan Shows strong hustle and compete level. Effective in the defensive zone by stripping pucks and making smart clears. Has decent hands and defends well with an active stick.

Opportunity: None noted

Projection: Undrafted

Skating: 5

Shooting: 5

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 5

Hockey IQ: 5

Physicality: 5

Offensive upside: 5

Defensive upside: 6

With the 2026 NHL Draft on the horizon, a new wave of talent is emerging across international play. Latvian winger Bruno Osmanis continues to impress in Sweden’s Allsvenskan, Marcus Nordmark is lighting up the scoresheet for Djurgårdens IF, and Mikey Berchild is proving his top billing with the USNTDP. Each has showcased skill, poise, and scoring touch against elite competition—and they’re quickly becoming names to watch for 2026.

Bruno Osmanis | RW | IF Björklöven

Latvian winger Bruno Osmanis first made headlines last year in the World Junior Championship with a pair of assists as the underdog upset Team Canada in a shootout 3-2. The 18-year-old is splitting his time between IF Björklöven’s pro team in Sweden’s second division and its U20 outfit. The intelligent playmaker has six points (two goals and four assists) in 13 games of play in Allsvenskan and seven points (two goals and five assists) in six games.

Osmanis suited up for Latvia’s junior team for three contests last week and was the most productive prospective member of the 2026 draft class. He opened up the week with a trio of assists in a 6-2 win over Austria. He followed it up with a two-goal, one-assist performance, with six shots on goal in a 5-0 rout of Denmark. He polished it all off with a goal and an assist and four shots in a 5-4 shootout loss to Norway.

Marcus Nordmark | RW | Djurgärdens IF

After tearing up Sweden’s U18 circuit with 46 points (22 goals, 24) in 27 games last season, winger Marcus Nordmark is building a case as a top prospect eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. After potting 18 points (nine goals, nine assists) in 17 U20 games in 2024-25, the Stockholm native has 23 points (seven goals, 16 assists) through 14 games this season.

After an incredibly productive international junior season in 2024-25, with 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists) in 20 games, Nordmark has continued to dominate the scoresheet against his international peers in 2025-26. Nordmark registered a goal and an assist in wins over Czechia and Switzerland and scored in the third period to tie the game at five against the United States in the final game of the U18 Five Nations tournament.

Mikey Berchild | C | USNTDP Juniors

Crafty center Mikey Berchild is the top-ranked USNTDP player on the Draft Prospects Hockey board, and he’s proving why he deserves that billing. The 5-foot-10, 181 pound pivot has 10 points (six goals and four assists) through 16 games played this season.

The Shattuck St. Mary’s product was incredibly productive for the US at the U18 Five Nations tournament that wrapped up on Sunday. Berchild picked up an assist in a 5-2 win over Switzerland to start the week. He fired five shots on goal and converted once on a one-timer into a nearly empty net after the Finnish goalie was scrambling to get back into position. Berchild added a goal and an assist in a 10-2 demolishing of Czechia. He added a pair of assists as the US erased a 4-1 second-period deficit and took a 5-4 lead in the third. The Americans couldn’t hold on as the Swedes scored a pair of goals late in the third to steal the game 6-5.

After a banner draft year for the OHL in 2025 that saw nine players drafted in the first
round, including five inside the top 10, 2026 could be another strong year with several
players flashing first-round potential at times throughout the last two seasons. Here’s
how some of the OHL’s top prospects are faring to start the 2025-26 season.

BECKHAM EDWARDS, SARNIA STING
Beckham Edwards is a speedy, versatile centre who plays at a high pace with and
without the puck. He was very effective for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in a depth
role and has carried that strong play over into a great start with Sarnia in the OHL. He’s
a very good skater who displays some good finishing ability and has a strong work ethic
on his own side of the puck, showcasing two-way potential and some special teams
upside at the NHL level.

While he drives strong results for his team on the ice thanks to his high shooting and
work rate, Edwards struggles with making plays under pressure to capitalize on good
scoring chances at times and could develop into more of a complementary forward at
the next level who needs a playmaker to maximize his skillset. Edwards must become
more consistent with his decision making and patience with the puck to prove he has
top six centre potential and cement himself as a prospect worthy of a top 20 pick.

RYAN ROOBROECK, NIAGARA ICEDOGS
Ryan Roobroeck is a physically imposing forward who’s playing a leading role on an
IceDogs team that could challenge for an OHL title this season. He’s got nimble feet for
a forward with such a large frame, escaping traffic and accelerating well thanks to his
agility and stride power. He’s very slippery in the offensive end, finding pockets of space
to release his shot and creating scoring chances consistently by driving to the middle
lane and making strong puck decisions under pressure. His shot and playmaking ability
are both strong suits, making him a dangerous player to give time and space and
someone who can impose his will in high-traffic areas like the low slot thanks to his size
and awareness.

While one of the bigger forwards eligible for the 2026 Draft, Roobroeck doesn’t show a
consistent mean streak or physical edge, instead utilizing his frame to protect the puck
well and get to the net. His engagement away from the puck can also vary from shift to
shift, making him more effective on the wing at this stage of his development. A slow
start to the season has allowed others to challenge his status as the top prospect in the
Ontario region, but Roobroeck’s high-end release and offensive skillset combined with his projectable frame should keep him in the conversation to be a top 10 draft pick in 2026.

BROOKS ROGOWSKI, OSHAWA GENERALS
Brooks Rogowski was a standout for USA at the Hlinka Gretzky tournament, playing an
impressive two-way game after being buried in a depth role for Oshawa last season.
He’s carried over that strong play to the OHL early in the year, making a larger scoring
impact for a rebuilding Generals team. He’s a great skater, with long, powerful strides
and the ability to beat defenders on the rush with his top-end speed and long wingspan.
His size and reach allow him to protect the puck very well, with room to add more
strength and make him tougher to knock off the puck or play through physical contact.
His vision is solid, making good reads on quick decisions and setting up scoring
chances with nice passes through traffic to the middle lane.

His finesse and puck control hinder his finishing and ability to cut through traffic to
access the middle of the ice. Improvements in this area are critical to his long-term
scoring upside, as his hulking size and vision would make him a deadly net-front option
as pro, both on the PP and at even strength. As it stands, Rogowski’s unique combo of
size, speed, athleticism, and dexterity make him a strong candidate for a top two round
selection, with first-round upside if he can continue to make gains in his production and
puck handling ability.

25 D, Chase Reid Soo Greyhounds (OHL) 6’2”, 187 lbs, DOB: 30/12/2007

Overall Scouting Report:
Chase has quickly become a leader on the ice with the Soo Greyhounds. Chase has the intelligence,
confidence, and ability to adapt his skills to make smart decisions on the ice. Using these skills he
creates a calm approach to the game, limiting mistakes, and creating more scoring chances. Chase’s
high hockey IQ, exceptional vision, hockey sense, and ability to generate offence. He is a skilled skater, and his ability to switch from defensive to offensive play sets him apart. His edge work, north-
south skating, and stick work pose challenges for the opponent. His confidence and skills ensure that he is calm and prepared on the ice. I feel that Chase will be a top 10 pick in the 2026 draft.

Skater Category Summary:
Skating: 8
Puck Skill: 8
Play-making ability: 8
Hockey IQ: 8
Physically: 8
Defensive Play: 8

Game Reports:

Soo Greyhounds vs Sudbury Wolves Oct, 30/2025:
Chase had a very strong game on the ice. Right from the start of the game Chase was playing a hard
two way game. Using his size, strong skating, and a calm confidence to help set the tone for the
Greyhounds. In the defensive zone Chase was using his size, and strength to keep the net front clear.
He also used that strong skating, and stick work to create havoc for the Wolves. Offensively, chase was
running the power-play, and creating offensive opportunities for the Greyhounds.
G: 0 A: 1 +4 PIM: 0 SOG: 2

Soo Greyhounds vs North Bay Battalion Oct. 31/2025:
Another strong game for Chase. All game Chase was setting the tone with his size, throwing some
quality hits in the neutral and defensive zone. He had positive presence on special teams, using his
hockey IQ and confidence to remain calm in all situations. Strong stick work in the defensive zone,
along with his size and strength made it easy for his goaltender to see the puck. Chase’s ability to
move from defensive to offensive rushes makes him an excellent overall defenseman.
G: 1 A: 0 +2 PIM: 2 SOG: 4

BCHL Okotoks Oilers (3) @ Sherwood Park Crusaders (7) October 31, 2025 @ 19:00

Joseph Sinclair, #91 Sherwood Park Crusaders – October 6, 2007. Right shot centre. 5.10 /176. 2-way Centre

Strength: Smooth skater with strong edge control. Drives to the front of the net to create traffic and generate scoring opportunities, contributing to a goal. Displays a clear team-first mentality, playing an unselfish, pass-first style.
Opportunity: His team-oriented approach can sometimes hold him back from showcasing his individual skill and offensive presence.

Forecast: Probably a career ‘AHL’ candidate, but could sneak into the later rounds for a team willing to take a chance. 

Skating: 6

Shooting: 6

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 6

Hockey IQ: 6

Physicality: 4

Offensive upside: 6

Defensive upside: 5

Gleb Semenko, #29 Sherwood Park Crusaders – March 21, 2008. Left shot right wing. 5.09/137. 2-way forward

Strength: Solid skater with good edge control. Willing to engage physically and mix it up when needed. Moves the puck well, showing strong awareness and vision. Has a nice shot and competes hard every shift. Effective in the bumper role and contributes in multiple areas of the game.
Opportunity: None noted

Forecast: Probably a career ‘AHL’ candidate, but could sneak into the later rounds for a team willing to take a chance. 

Skating: 6

Shooting: 4

Passing: 6

Puck Handling: 6

Hockey IQ: 6

Physicality: 6

Offensive upside: 4

Defensive upside: 5

Danick St. Pierre, #10 Sherwood Park Crusaders – May 13, 2008 Left shot right wing. 6.02/185. 2-way forward

Strength: Strong edge work and a high compete level. Battles hard and stays engaged throughout the play.
Opportunity: Needs improvement on the defensive side of the puck. Has limited puck touches, and when he does have possession, decision-making can lead to unforced turnovers.

Forecast: Unlikely to get drafted. 

Skating: 7

Shooting: 4

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 4

Hockey IQ: 6

Physicality: 4

Offensive upside: 4

Defensive upside: 5

BCHL Sherwood Park Crusaders (1) @ Spruce Grove Saints (2) November 1, 2025 @ 19:00

Gabriel O’Brien, #8 Sherwood Park Crusaders – April 3, 2008, Left shot left wing. 6.03/198. 2-way forward

Strength: Strong skater with good tenacity. Shows impressive compete level — drew two penalties on one shift and stayed focused, getting right back into the play instead of engaging the ref. Willing to go to the net and battle for position.
Opportunity: Needs to play heavier on the body. When he does engage physically, he tends to get in too tight, leading to holding penalties instead of clean checks. Can be knocked off his feet too easily.

Forecast: Unlikely to get drafted. 

Skating: 7

Shooting: 4

Passing: 4

Puck Handling: 4

Hockey IQ: 4

Physicality: 4

Offensive upside: 4

Defensive upside: 4

Gage Brandon, #82 Sherwood Park Crusaders – June 10, 2008, Left shot left wing. 5.10/148. 

Strength: Limited sample size to evaluate.
Opportunity: Skating needs improvement. Didn’t see much ice time — only about three shifts over two periods — making it difficult to assess overall impact.

Forecast: Unlikely to get drafted. 

Skating: 4

Shooting: 4

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 4

Hockey IQ: 4

Physicality: 4

Offensive upside: 4

Defensive upside: 5

WHL Prince George Cougars (1) @ Vancouver Giants (2) November 2, 2025 @ 17:00

Arseni Anisimov, #8 Prince George Cougars – November 25, 2007 – Left shot defenseman. 5.11 / 174

Strength: Anisimov is a Uses an active stick effectively. Strong skater who closes gaps quickly and holds the blue line with confidence.
Opportunity: Could improve his overall quickness to better match elite forwards with high-end foot speed. Needs to sharpen situational awareness, particularly in tracking opponents behind him when he shades toward one side of the ice. Adding more strength would help him win a higher percentage of board battles.

Currently not listed and I feel it is unlikely he will get drafted. 

Skating: 4

Shooting: 4

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 4

Hockey IQ: 4

Physicality: 5

Offensive upside: 6

Defensive upside:6

Kayden Lemire, #28 Prince George Cougars – January 27, 2008 – Right shot right wing. 6.04 / 194

Strength: Shows decent agility for a big player. Willingly blocks shots and uses his size effectively to play a physical game. Extremely strong and capable of overpowering opposing defensemen in front of the net.

Opportunity: Needs to play with more assertiveness in the defensive zone. Could benefit from improving his speed. Tends to favor a dump-and-chase approach rather than carrying the puck over the blue line and driving to the net. Took an undisciplined penalty behind the play in the neutral zone during this viewing.

Currently not listed and I feel it is unlikely he will get drafted.

Skating: 4

Shooting: 4

Passing: 4

Puck Handling: 5

Hockey IQ: 4

Physicality: 6

Offensive upside: 5

Defensive upside: 4

1 Slovakian Center and 2 OHL Wingers Shine

Another week of hockey is in the books, and more young stars are making their cases to be top prospects in the 2026 NHL draft. Slovakian center Tomas Chrenko continued his dominance this season against competition that is much older than him. Pierce Mbuyi showed off his playmaking ability in three wins for his club, and Nikita Klepov maintained his lead atop the OHL scoring for draft eligibles.

Tomas Chrenko | C | HK Nitra (Slovakia)

After dominating in U20 Slovakia competition to the tune of 61 points (30 goals, 31 assists) in 28 games in his predraft year, Chrenko began to get some recognition as a potential late first-round pick entering the season. The 5-foot-11, 170-pound center has played in 17 games so far already this year with HK Nitra’s pro team after getting into 26 games with the club last year.

With more weeks like this past one, Chrenko is sure to catch the eyes of NHL scouts. He opened the week with a two-goal outing in U20 play, helping his team secure a 6-4 victory. Called up to the big club for his second game of the week, the Slovak played just over 17 minutes and registered two assists in a 5-2 loss. He closed out the week with a goal and two assists in 15 minutes of ice time in a 5-0 win. After his team got the zone entry, Chrenko charged the net. The puck went back to the point, and defender Matej Baca fired it on goal. Chrenko quickly fired the rebound past the goalie to give his squad a 3-0 lead.

Pierce Mbuyi | LW | Owen Sound Attack (OHL)

Mbuyi, who won the OHL Rookie of the Year award in his first season with Owen Sound (52 points in 63 games) last season, has started the 2025-26 campaign with a scorching 24 points through 18 games. After registering 38 points in 33 games after January 1st last year, the highly skilled winger seems to have figured out how to rack up points in the OHL.

Mbuyi picked up an assist in wins on Wednesday and Saturday for the Attack and then exploded with a goal and four assists in an 8-3 victory over the Erie Otters on Sunday. After Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Harry Nansi took a big hit to get the puck into the Otters’ zone, Mbuyi snatched it up and skated it in. He then fired a perfectly placed wrist shot past the Otters’ goalkeeper to break the 2-2 tie with 3:12 left to go in the 2nd period.

Nikita Klepov | RW | Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Nikita Klepov has started the 2025-26 campaign on a heater with 28 points (13 goals, 15 assists) in 17 games. The Hlinka Gretzky Cup gold medalist with the United States in August, where he picked up six points in five games, is garnering plenty of attention for his accolades so far.

The 6-foot, 181 pound winger put up six points (four goals, two assists) in three games this past week. His biggest game came in a 6-3 win over the Windsor Spitfires, where he registered a pair of goals and added a helper. Klepov got his first of the contest by being in the right place in the offensive zone to pick off a clearing attempt and then had a nearly wide-open wrist shot that beat Windsor goalie Joey Costanzo cleanly over the blocker. He added the daily double while 4-on-4 in the second period. Using the Spitfires defender as a screen, Kelpov fired a wrist shot that caught a peice of Costanzo’s shoulder and trickled across the goal line.

September 20, 2025
Windsor Spitfires v. London Knights
WFCU Centre
Ethan Belchetz #61, F
Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
6’5”, 227 lbs, DOB 2008-03-30
Belchetz gave a strong performance in the home opener against London, earning
himself a 2-point game (1G, 1A), with the game winning goal. Going into the home
opener as a high-profile pick and delivering the points under the spotlight showed his
composure and that he does not disappear or play tentatively. His one-timer was from a
dangerous area (right circle) and was well-executed with his quick release and
precision. Recognizing the 5-on-3, he set himself up in that scoring position, speaking to
his IQ and situational awareness, especially against a disciplined and talented team like
London. While his stats were offensive, in a game where Windsor limited opportunities
and maintained control, Belchetz was not drifting defensively and was part of a
successful system to shut London down. Where Belchetz can improve is his awareness
to his size. As a tall forward, his skating will need continued refinement. Accelerations,
edgework, and transitions will be critical to keep pace as competition stiffens. He could
improve his speed by lengthening his stride. Standing at six foot five, he can lean into
his stride and length of his legs to do the work for him and keep his endurance. Big
forwards often absorb more physical play and hits. As the season progresses and
opponents target him, he’ll need to maintain physical resilience. Belchetz projects as a
power winger with the potential to be a middle to top 6 forward at the NHL level, with
value in net-front presence, physicality and scoring.
Skater Category Summarization:
Skating: 6
Puck Skill: 7
Scoring Ability: 8
Hockey IQ: 7
Character: 8
Physicality: 6
Defensive Play: 6

September 20, 2025

Windsor Spitfires v. London Knights
WFCU Centre
Logan Hawery #26, F
London Knights (OHL)
5’10”, 170 lbs, DOB 2008-03-15
Hawery was the only Knight player to get on the board tonight. In a game where London
struggled, being the source of offense gives value. Even in a loss, Hawery had
something to show for his offensive efforts. He was able to capitalize on the man
advantage, finding a scoring lane from the slot to wrist one home, showcasing his
powerplay awareness. He has a dangerous wrist shot and will snipe it when given the
smallest amount of time and space. Where he lacked was his defensive game.
Throughout Windsor’s continued pressure, nothing stood out about his defensive
awareness, speaking to the – 3 he had tonight. As a centre, he needs to be more
aggressive in the defensive zone and on the backchecks. His size may limit him, but
tonight’s game was not a fair judgement of that as the Knights struggled as a whole. If
he can improve his consistency in his 2-way game and continue offensive pressure, he
can push himself toward the higher levels and become a key depth player in the NHL.
Skater Category Summarization:
Skating: 6
Puck Skill: 6
Scoring Ability: 7
Hockey IQ: 7
Character: 7
Physicality: 4
Defensive Play: 5

September 20, 2025
Windsor Spitfires v. London Knights
WFCU Centre

Caleb Mitchell #77, D
London Knights (OHL)
5’11”, 180 lbs, DOB 2008-03-17
Mitchell is one of the go-to defencemen for the Knights, being used regularly and
earning top minutes on the blue line. He displayed responsible gap control and
situational awareness throughout the game, being a constant support in the transition
game. He had a momentary lapse in decision-making under pressure when he was
called on a delay of game penalty, one that is easy to avoid. He was positionally smart
on the regroups and he looked comfortable with the puck, made outlet passes and
skated pucks out under pressure rather than a routine dump. Offensively, Mitchell was
visible jumping into the play to keep pucks alive in the zone and used his mobility and
edgework, which allowed him to join those offensive rushes. There were a couple
instances where Mitchell got caught on a risky pinch and the Spitfires were able to
quickly counter the pressure, this exposure wasn’t costly to him today but being mindful
of when to pinch and being aware of the support (or lack thereof) is crucial for a young
defenceman to learn. Although he does not have an overly large frame, he competes
physically, engaging in board battles and being dominate in his positioning in front of the
Knights’ goaltender. However, he did get out-muscled at times, showing a gap in
strength development. Overall, it was a promising but imperfect performance – a lot to
like from an offensive transition standpoint and with clear, fixable developmental points.
If he cleans up his situational reads and adds strength without losing his mobility,
performances like this fit the profile of a middle-pairing, puck-moving defence who can
play power-play minutes and drive transition.

Skater Category Summarization:
Skating: 6
Puck Skill: 6
Scoring Ability: 4
Hockey IQ: 6
Character: 7
Physicality: 6
Defensive Play: 7

Team Lafleur 6 vs Team Crosby 5 Shootout

#2 D, Xavier Villeneuve

Team: Lafleur (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)

Height/Weight: 5’11”, 157 lbs

Shoots: Left

DOB: September 29, 2007

Overview:

Xavier is an electrifying offensive-minded defenseman with great agility and dazzling puck-handling abilities up the rush, showing significant potential for the 2026 NHL draft as a 1st round pick. Known for his tremendous confidence in carrying the puck and reading the offensive zone, Villeneuve brings a unique flair to the back end for the Armada as even though he is quite the risk taker, he is excellent at understanding when to take risks for the team’s own good. When looking at offensive defensemen, Villeneuve does an excellent job at utilizing his shot as much as he can to cause havoc, or even score. However, his small size limits his effectiveness in physical battles in the corners as, and he’ll need to add a lot of strength to succeed at the NHL level because even though the league has many smaller players now, the league is now as physical as ever and he will need to get ready to endure long 82 game seasons.  

Player Projection

Ceiling: First Pair Offensive Defenseman 

Floor: Top 4/5 Offensive Defenseman, PP QB. (If not, unlikely NHL shot)

Special Teams: PP1 Quarterback

Production Outlook: 55–65 Points

Pick Range: Mid 1st Round

Strengths:

• Skating and Edgework: Villeneuve’s agility is elite, with quick pivots and tight turns.
• Puck Skills and Passing: Soft hands make his passing smooth and effective, supporting his offensive style. 
• Offensive Awareness: Villeneuve has the confidence and vision to be quite the quarterback from the blue line in any scenario (Not even on the powerplay).

Weaknesses:

• Physicality and Balance: Building strength is an absolute must for him to him to be more durable.
• Defensive positioning and decision making with the puck in his own end. 
• Discipline: Needs to be mindful of how he possesses himself, especially how he handles external factors.

In-game observations: 

• At 3.5-minute mark of the 1st, in the offensive zone, although played too high, showcased confidence with the puck and skating, weaving through the blueline and passing to Cossette-Ayotte.
• At the 1st minute of the 2nd period, was not mindful of where he was passing the puck and created a turnover in his own end.
• Near the end of 4-on-4 in the halfway mark of the 2nd, where it seemed that Villeneuve trapped himself, he exploded very quick out of it and distributed to Blais.
• Near the halfway mark of the 3rd, Villeneuve received the puck from Myloserdnyy, and then he sprung Ovcharov with a flat and hard breakout pass off the boards.

Skater Ratings:

• Skating: 7
• Puck Skill: 7
• Scoring Ability: 5.5
• Playmaking Ability: 7
• Hockey Sense/IQ: 6
• Character: 5
• Physicality: 3
• Defensive Play: 4