It's time for my first official ranking of the season. It's a little later than usual, but this has been a heck of a year to scout. The influx of talent into the OHL has been incredible with the new eligibility rules. That means there have been so many guys to try to get a read on in a short amount of time. Just look at how many OHL players were graded by NHL Central Scouting; 87 players! I can never remember a number even close to that high.
My first list includes detailed reports on the Top 30 and small snippets on the other 20 that make up the Top 50.
A reminder that this list does not include potential re-entry candidates (players already passed over in the draft). I do a separate list for these types later in the season.
Looking at the quality of this group early on, it's a strong crop. We've got several top ten candidates. We've got nearly double digit first round candidates. There's great depth because of the influx of NCAA committed players. It'll be fun to follow this group the rest of the year.
Here's the list:
1. Ethan Belchetz - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
Coming into the season, what scouts really wanted to see from Belchetz is him taking over games physically, dominating touches and dominating down low to help drive play in the offensive zone. We saw that at times in his rookie year, but we know that power forwards take longer to develop. Suffice to say, Belchetz has given the people what they want. He’s been an absolute beast this year; he’s becoming a real unicorn in today’s hockey landscape. There aren’t many players with his package of size, skill, and physicality these days. I think the other positive thing is that his skating has improved further. It’s never been a weakness (and part of why he’s always been such a promising prospect in Ontario), but he looks more explosive and he’s more balanced and sharper on his edges. It’s allowing him to escape coverage using his feet and reach, and not solely relying on his size to bully through defenders. This bodes well for the higher levels where his size advantage will be less advantageous. So what you have here is a potential first line power forward who can be the focal point of your offense for a decade+. To me, he should be in the conversation for second overall behind McKenna.
2. Chase Reid - Defense - Soo Greyhounds
What a remarkable turnaround it has been for Reid. From USHL cut and NAHL player, to one of the best defenders in the OHL in less than a year. I love Reid and I truly believe he has a chance to become the best NHL defender in this 2026 NHL Draft class. His skating ability gives him such a leg up offensively. He’s such a dynamic player with the puck. He routinely escapes pressure and gets pucks to the middle of the ice, which is so advantageous for the Greyhounds. He’s a great powerplay QB with his strong shot and creativity/poise on the point. He can create in transition. He operates well as the third/fourth man in and has learned to pick his spots well. Defensively, I think he’s better than people give him credit for. I think the instincts are fairly sound and I think that his physical engagement level will become more consistent with better conditioning/more experience. There’s real upside here for him to develop into an all situations type of defender from the right side and we know how much value that holds.
3. Ryan Roobroeck - Wing - Niagara IceDogs
This is a tough one for me. I’m very lukewarm on Roobroeck and his development thus far, but I do still believe that he deserves to be ranked third. But, as you’ll see in our preliminary 2026 ranking at McKeen’s Hockey, I don’t currently view him as a top ten selection at this time. The shot is a major weapon; he has one of the best shots and most deceptive releases in this draft class. He has the potential to be a consistent 30 goal scorer at the NHL level. I think his offensive instincts are sound too. He’s an underrated playmaker and he’s one of those guys who finds soft spots in coverage well; the puck is magnified to him. When you factor in his size, you understand the reasons why he’s ranked fairly high by some. But, I’m concerned by the inconsistencies in his physical game. Going back to his time with the London Jr. Knights program, this has always been a concern. That classic case of wanting a bigger forward to play big…even though he’s truly more of a finesse guy who just happens to be big. Considering his late ‘07 birthday, I also hoped that his skating would take another step forward, in particular his explosiveness. I’m just not sure he’s going to drive play at higher levels and he becomes more of a supporting offensive piece who can utilize his shot. I think back to a guy like Michael Dal Colle, who had similar concerns and he really struggled to find success in the NHL. I know there are quite a few others in the industry who have concerns about Roobroeck too.
4. Adam Novotny - Wing - Peterborough Petes
It was a bit of a rough transition for Novotny to the OHL. The production took a bit to come, even though he was generating chances. However, I found his engagement off the puck to be wildly inconsistent the first month…and that was supposed to be a calling card of his. However, my views in the last month have been significantly better. He’s been way more focused away from the puck and his physical intensity has ratcheted up a bit. He’s also been better on the puck; his protection skills are excellent. He really does a great job of getting from the wall to the middle and he’s got a quick release which makes him dangerous at all times in the offensive zone. He’s such a powerful skater too. Not necessarily a dynamic one, but he’s great North/South and can be a load for defenders to take on one on one. I guess the question I have regarding Novotny is…what’s the upside for the NHL level? He’s a pretty mature player already and I’m just not sure anything about his game screams top point producer. I see him as more of a middle six type who can provide versatility to his coaches. Think of an Alex Killorn type of guy.
5. Brooks Rogowski - Center - Oshawa Generals
A very unique player; his skill set and frame combination is a relatively rare one. Rogowski is a really strong skater for such a larger forward, particularly his quickness/explosiveness. He still has some filling out to do and I think that could help him improve his power even further. It’s crazy to think that by the time he’s playing in the NHL, Rogowski could be a plus skater at 6’6. That in turn unlocks so many things. He’s going to be a really difficult player to stop from getting to the net, an area where he already shows flashes of dominance. Additionally, his on puck play and transitional abilities have improved so much this year. I don’t think he’s ever going to have a high end shot, meaning he’ll likely lean pass first at the higher levels, unless he’s at the net. I’m just generally impressed by the fact that Rogowski can play with pace, an area that bigger forwards typically struggle with until they grow into their frames and their coordination improves. I’ve heard some concerns in the scouting community about his lack of physical engagement given his size, and I do think that’s valid to an extent. I wish he had more Belchetz to his game. However, I don’t think he’s a poor three zone player or poor off puck player. He’s got a very active stick and excellent defensive instincts. With his reach, he won’t need to be Tom Wilson to be effective. To me, Rogowski is a first round talent all day. Too bad an injury has forced him out of the US/CHL Prospect Challenge.
6. Nikita Klepov - Wing - Saginaw Spirit
We kind of keep waiting for his scoring to slow down, but it’s just not really happening, even with Saginaw crashing down the standings in the Western Conference. He’s been utterly dominant at times. On the puck, he’s making things happen in transition and creating chances with both his speed and skill. His shot, particularly his one timer, is one of the best in the class. I love that he plays with an edge; a fearlessness. He attacks the middle of the ice as if he were 6’3, 200lbs and is always looking to get inside leverage on defenders. I also love his effort level without the puck. He’s active in puck pursuit on both the forecheck and the backcheck and it’s this high energy approach that will earn him NHL ice time in the future. Part of me wonders if he’s more of a complementary piece at the NHL level. Part of me wonders if he’s more of a middle six piece at the NHL level. Sometimes well rounded, average sized wingers can be difficult to project. However, he should firmly be on the radar as a top 20 candidate.
7. Caleb Malhotra - Center - Brantford Bulldogs
What a pleasant surprise Malhotra has been this year for the Bulldogs. For a good chunk of this year, the Malhotra, Cooper Dennis, and Aiden O’Donnell line dominated the league until O’Donnell’s departure to Oshawa in the Danford/Sandhu trade. Now they’ve been playing Malhotra with Adam Benak and the results have been equally strong. As you might expect, Malhotra is a bit of a chip off the ol’ block. He has his father’s two-way instincts and projects as an elite defensive forward at the NHL level, someone who can kill penalties and take on shutdown assignments. Malhotra is also proving to be a very high end playmaker, again thanks to that high level of intelligence. He’s not a flashy player, but he’s one step ahead of defenders because he makes quick decisions and because he keeps things simple to limit turnovers. Do I think that he’ll be a first line player in the NHL? No. But, I think he’s going to have a long career as a versatile center, much like Manny. That’s well worth the mid first round ranking that he’s garnering currently.
8. Beckham Edwards - Center/Wing - Sarnia Sting
Edwards is a guy who has played quite well for a last place (in the West Division) Sarnia team this year. Things haven’t exactly gone according to plan for the Sting, but Edwards’ play has been a bright spot. His combination of speed, puck skill, and shot generation ability is impressive. He’s at his best when playing or attacking with pace. I think there’s a chance that his skill set is going to be better suited for the wing at the NHL level and I think now that Di Iorio is back, we’ll probably see Edwards more on the wing with Sarnia too. The offensive zone turnovers can be a little frustrating; his game is a little “one note” as an offensive player. He relies so much by creating with his speed North/South. This is a criticism that I’ve heard from other scouts too. But, he’s not a one dimensional player and I think he does project as a versatile, swiss army knife kind of player at the NHL level. I forget who said it recently, but they threw out the comparison of Chris Kreider and I think that’s pretty accurate if he slides to the wing. His game is going to need to evolve, but there’s a very interesting foundation in place.
9. Alessandro Di Iorio - Center - Sarnia Sting
Recently returned to the Sarnia lineup after getting injured in the preseason. Watched his first game back and he was terrific; not an ounce of rust. I think, realistically, he’s going to need to have a tremendous second half of the season to be a top 45 pick. I don’t think he was at his best at the Hlinka/Gretzky and now he’s playing catch up. Opinions on Di Iorio seem to be all over the map. From loving his two-way sense and scoring upside. To liking his speed and attention to detail but believing he’s more of a third line player in the NHL. To the other end of the spectrum, where there’s concern over his upside because his game lacks dynamic qualities and he’s one of those “jack of all trades” types. So where do I fall? Kind of in the middle of all of it and I truly feel like I need much more time to come to a more concrete conclusion about him. I think the shot can play; it’s crazy underrated and IMO one of the better in this draft class (I realize that I do keep saying this in this write up). I want to see how his skating continues to improve over the year. It's not a weakness, but given his frame and play style, becoming a high end skater should be a goal. What about his physical approach once he’s fully back to health? How much truly separates Di Iorio from a guy like Malhotra?
10. Jaxon Cover - Wing - London Knights
What an interesting player and story. Hasn’t been playing high level hockey for very long after transitioning from roller hockey. It’s truly remarkable how quickly he’s caught up; a testament to his athleticism. The upside here is through the roof. He’s exceptionally skilled and creative with the puck. Yeah, he’ll turn the puck over from time to time, but his puck management has already improved a lot from the start of the year. He’s also exceptionally dangerous North/South with his speed bursts and ability to beat defenders one on one. The play away from the puck has been pretty inconsistent, but there’s been flashes of excellence. He’s shown a physical approach in puck pursuit. He’s shown good defensive instincts. He’s getting to his spots and earning chances through good zone reads. As he gains more experience, these areas should continue to get better. It’s just a matter of whether you believe that his skill set and attacking approach can translate to offense at the higher levels. It comes down to how you view his play away from the puck and whether you think those experience gaps can be closed. If he keeps improving over the year, I could see myself having him in the top five of OHL ranked players this year.
11. Pierce Mbuyi - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
Mbuyi is a bit of a tough read. I can understand why NHL Central Scouting put him down as a “C’ grade. Do I agree with it? No, but I can see the reasoning behind it. He had a tough start to the year. He wasn’t great (or utilized well) at the Hlinka/Gretzky. Then he looked a little timid to start this OHL season. But for the last month? He’s been an absolute beast. Yeah, undersized (or average sized) wingers are tough to project. However, what I really think Mbuyi has going for him is a competitive edge to go with his skill. He’s also not really a classic burner for a “smaller” winger, which is another reason NHL CSS snubbed him. However, I think he’s explosive on his edges and has that elusive quality to his stride. In a lot of ways, there’s some Cole Perfetti to his game, only I think Mbuyi is already a more impactful player off the puck in the offensive zone than Perfetti was at this age. If there’s one thing that I’ve learned in my years of scouting it’s that players like Mbuyi need to be competitive to find scoring line success at the higher levels and he has that. Imagine once he fills out and becomes stronger on/off the puck? Let’s see if this current level of play is sustainable, but he’s working his way back up draft boards IMO.
12. Thomas Vandenberg - Center - Ottawa 67’s
It’s a shame that he’s been out with an injury for the past little bit because he was playing so well. I’ve been really impressed with Vandenberg. He’s just my kind of player. Gets to the net. Strong in puck protection. Plays with an edge. Is a responsible three zone player. I’m sure NHL scouts wish he were a bit bigger given the way that he likes to play, but you could make the same argument about Brady Martin. I think Vandenberg’s skating is a potential plus quality as he continues to mature physically. He’s explosive, but I think he can work to improve his ability to sustain speed. It’s important to note that he’s one of the youngest players available this year, so there is a runway for him to get bigger. I just see Vandenberg as the kind of guy you could plug into your middle six for a decade and I’m excited to see him return to the ice in Ottawa.
13. Vladimir Dravecky - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs
In terms of effectiveness and impact, Dravecky has to be considered one of the best current players on this list. He’s been an absolute pleasure to watch in Brantford and has been a large part of their early season success. Dravecky is a dynamic offensive defender. OHL teams are having a really tough time boxing him in at the blueline; he just finds ways to slip coverage. His four way mobility is excellent and his hands move in sync with his feet, allowing him to find ways to work pucks down low or to the middle of the ice. He’s been equally effective as a transition leader. Turnovers and bad pinches have happened, but he’s a bit of a riverboat gambler and I think you’ll need to learn to live with some mistakes to allow him to create offense freely. He’s a very confident player with the puck. Defensively, he’s been more than adequate at the OHL level. He hasn’t been consistent in his ability to defend down low or play physically, but he’s shown flashes. As an average sized defender, there will be concerns that he’s more of a powerplay specialist at the NHL level, but I think that’s why he’s more of a second rounder than a first. You take the risk in drafting him because the offensive ability is that impressive.
14. Cole Zurawski - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
Lots to like here with Zurawski. Big bodied, power winger who can absolutely rifle the puck. Not only does he have an elite shot, but his scoring instincts are also top notch. He puts himself in position to score by finding soft spots in the middle of the ice and by getting to the net. He’s proven in the last month or so that he can create his own scoring chances and he’s been a highly effective North/South attacker. I think other parts of his game need some fine tuning. I haven’t loved the consistency of his effort outside of the offensive zone. He can cheat for offense. I haven’t loved his playmaking sense and he’ll need to improve his vision and passing touch to truly take his game to the next level as a dual offensive threat. Yet, he needs to be ranked fairly aggressively based on his upside as a top six goal scorer and powerplay threat.
15. Colin Fitzgerald - Center - Peterborough Petes
I don’t think Fitzgerald has been as mediocre as his stats would suggest this year. He’s been relatively snake bitten on a poor Peterborough team and is still getting a ton of ice time and responsibility from the coaching staff. I don’t think he had a great Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, but he’s been relatively solid to start this OHL season. I actually think his skating looks quicker now than it did this summer and it’s obvious that he’s been working to add quickness, especially given his growth spurt in the last year. The allure with Fitzgerald is his power center approach. He’s physical. He competes at both ends. He’s a natural leader who could end up wearing a letter down the line for his NHL team. I’m just not sure if he’s got a ton of offensive upside. He’s struggled to maintain possession at times when trying to play with pace and the hands are currently just average. So does that make him more of an ideal third line center? I view Fitzgerald similarly to how I did Czata last year. And that kind of player is a great second round selection, but he’ll be hard pressed to pass some other guys ahead of him right now.
16. Braidy Wassilyn - Wing - London Knights
The early returns of the trade from Niagara have been pretty spectacular. He’s fit in like a glove and has developed some terrific chemistry on the top powerplay unit. I think at this stage of the game, Wassilyn is best described as a “quick strike” opportunist. He’s got a quick release and he’s got quick feet. Thus far in London I feel like all of his goals have looked the exact same; Wassilyn has beaten a defender to a spot in the slot and buried it. It seems likely that he’ll continue to play that complementary role with the Knights for the rest of the year, using his quickness to get behind defenders. But, I’ve been disappointed with his on puck play this year. He’s got the skill, but he’s largely been kept to the perimeter when he’s looking to attack. Additionally, the off puck play has been pretty weak, a reason why he was cut from the Hlinka team this past summer IMO. But London is a great spot for him. Dale Hunter will work to fine tune his approach. The question is, what kind of player will he be in the NHL? That I have a harder time determining and as such, I’m a little lower on him than some of my contemporaries who view him as a first rounder.
17. Ryder Cali - Center/Wing - North Bay Battalion
Another player that is injured right now, but I’ve really liked Cali’s game this year in North Bay after playing most of last year in the OJHL. Cali isn’t someone that I’d call a power forward…per say. But he plays big and knows how to leverage his size even if he’s not out there consistently throwing his weight around. He’s really good near the crease, fighting for position, working as a screen, putting home loose pucks. Cali is also a really tough player to separate from the puck already and he’s often quite successful on his net drives. He has power to his stride and is balanced on his edges, giving him that burst needed to successfully drive the net. Cali has also shown a really strong playmaker’s touch, especially from behind the net or off the cycle. Lastly, he’s proven to be a strong two-way player who has an active stick in the defensive zone. Is he a center long term? He’s shifted back and forth this year. Does he have significant NHL upside? Probably not. But, he’s got the frame and tools needed to be a long time bottom six guy at the NHL level and that has value in the top 75.
18. Maksim Sokolovskii - Defense - London Knights
It’s rare to have someone being routinely healthy scratched ranked this high early on, but I do truly believe that Sokolovskii has excellent upside. There’s no doubting that his game is raw; he’s made a huge jump from the US AAA loop to the OHL. The decision making hasn’t always been the cleanest, especially in terms of his reads at both ends. And he’s caught in a bit of a numbers game on a London blueline that is playing musical chairs. However, I look at Sokolovskii as being a project worth investing in…kind of like Simon Wang last year. He’s massive, but he moves pretty well for a bigger defender. He can impact the transition game by escaping pressure with his feet and he has the potential to be a “plus” rush defender because of his reach and more than adequate agility. Sokolovskii is also a physical beast. He can really punish opposing forwards down low. It’s all about finding the right times to apply this, because there are other times where he’s been a bit too passive. And while his puck management has been inconsistent, I’ve seen enough positive plays from him to suggest that it can improve a lot. I really do think that the Hunters can turn him into a player and he’d be someone worth investing a top 90 selection on.
19. Carter Stevens - Wing - Guelph Storm
Stevens played some center last year but has been strictly utilized on the wing this year. Can he shift back to center at some point in the future? That remains to be seen. But what you have here is a player with a very clear identity on the ice. He knows he’s not the most skilled or creative player with the puck. But, he’s a hard worker. He gets to the net. He wins battles along the wall. He’s an active three zone player. His skating continues to improve. He has more than adequate finishing ability and a shot that flashes above average upside. So long as he continues to improve his quickness, there’s a chance that he could be a middle six contributor at the NHL level. That said, one thing that I’d like to see from him is a little more physicality. If he’s going to play the same role in the NHL as he does in Guelph…he’s going to need to get meaner.
20. JC Lemieux - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
Lemieux is a tough player for me to rank right now. On one hand, I really like the player. I love the energy he brings every shift. I love his ability to push the pace of play with his speed. I think that he’s an intelligent player who is going to end up being one of the OHL’s scoring leaders by the time he moves on from the league. On the other hand, he’s a smaller winger who lacks elite level qualities, and who has had a difficult time staying healthy thus far in his OHL career. Is there a true NHL projection here? Lemieux kind of brings me back to watching a guy like Nic Petan out of the WHL. I want him to succeed, but I also have to be a realist and contemplate patterns that I’ve seen before. For now, I think that this is a fair ranking for Lemieux. There’s wiggle room to move in either direction depending on how the rest of his year goes on a very strong Windsor team. It’s in the future, but I think his performance in the OHL playoffs is going to go a long way to dictating his NHL draft stock.
21. Callum Croskery - Defense - Soo Greyhounds
A forgotten man so far because he hasn’t played since the Hlinka/Gretzky, where we barely saw him. This is a pretty moderate ranking for him because I do think that he has the talent to be ranked higher than this. I thought Croskery was excellent at the Hlinka/Gretzky camp in Oakville. And I thought he looked great in the OHL’s preseason before sustaining that upper body injury. Croskery is a potential two-way defender with plus mobility. He can lead the rush and start the breakout. However, he’s also an intelligent defender who has the length and mindset to be disruptive. A wait and see approach is needed here, but people need to keep him in mind still. He should be returning very soon.
22. Alexander Bilecki - Defense - Kitchener Rangers
Bilecki has been an incredibly nice surprise for the Rangers this year. He’s come in and bumped Jacob Xu further down the depth chart (something we’ll touch on further down this piece) and has been one of Kitchener’s best defenders thus far. He’s a really skilled offensive defender. Quick hands and feet; the kind of guy who can make something out of nothing. I think his upside as a powerplay quarterback and point producer is quite high. He’s also shown a bit of jam to his game in the defensive end and it’s why Kitchener has increased his role. We’re not talking about a smaller offensive defender either. Bilecki is 6’2. Without question, Bilecki is one of my favourite under the radar prospects from the OHL right now and if his trajectory keeps upward, he’ll be higher on my next list.
23. Layne Gallacher - Center - Brantford Bulldogs
Another guy that I see as a massively underrated prospect from the OHL right now. He’s been playing a third line center role for the Bulldogs and has been a consistent secondary scorer for them. He’s a true power center prospect. He drives the middle. He brings it physically. He’s been solid as a defensive presence. He’s also flashed some skill and has been an effective playmaker who helps drive play through the middle of the ice. Skating isn’t an issue either. This is someone that NHL scouts are going to be really interested in, with the belief that when he takes on a larger role, the offensive side of things could really boom for him. Like Bilecki, if he keeps improving, he’ll be higher on my next list. I see both as serious top 75 contenders.
24. Nathan Amidovski - Wing - Ottawa 67's
Not a flashy player by any means. The kind of guy you don't notice immediately, but who requires a few viewings to appreciate. However, there are a lot of pro tendencies to his game. He's an excellent off puck support player and the perfect complementary player in the middle six of today's NHL. He has size. He is a solid skater. He works hard in all three zones. He makes quick decisions with the puck. He can finish in tight. Like Bilecki and Gallacher, I think he's vastly underrated for this class and he's someone that I could see myself liking even more by season's end if he can show a bit more on the puck as a play driver.
25. Caden Harvey - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
While the scoring pace has definitely slowed from the beginning of the season, I still like Harvey as a prospect. He’s not going to be a scoring line player at higher levels. However, he has the frame, positive work rate, sense, and enough skill and speed to contribute in a bottom six role. His ice time is bound to fluctuate all year on a strong Windsor team, but I’ve found his effort away from the puck to be consistent. Just a solid overall player.
26. Zach Jovanovski - Goaltender - Guelph Storm
While consistency has been a bit of an issue, I think it’s easy to see why Jovanovski seems to be the favourite of NHL scouts among OHL netminders thus far. He was named to the CHL/US Top Prospect’s Challenge roster and graded out as one of the top netminders on NHL Central Scouting’s Players to Watch list. Admittedly, I was originally a bit skeptical. I wasn’t all that impressed by Jovanovski last year and as a late born 2007, I’m not sure I saw the allure early on. However, the more that I’ve watched him, the more I’ve seen what others are seeing. He’s composed and in control of his movement, and he tracks the play pretty well. This allows him to square up shooters and cut down angles without taking himself out of position. I think there’s room for him to become a little quicker in the crease and I definitely think there’s room for him to improve his rebound control, but overall, there are some things to work with here.
27. Jacob Xu - Defense - Kitchener Rangers
Coming into the year, I had very high expectations for Xu and he was ranked 11th in my preseason list. However, this year just hasn’t been a great one for him thus far. He didn’t have a great Hlinka/Gretzky camp for Canada and was subsequently cut. His play to start the OHL season hasn’t been a whole lot better and he’s been pushed down the depth chart in Kitchener. Additionally, he recently served a suspension for a boneheaded slash. I’m seeing a lot of parallels between Xu and what we saw from Carson Cameron last year; a player who has had a tough time carving out an identity in the face of draft season expectations. Xu has good size. He is a quality mover who can close gaps quickly. He can play physically. Puck management has been an issue for him this year. Lots of time to turn things around as part of a team with Championship aspirations.
28. Wesley Royston - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
Really curious to see how the change of scenery to Owen Sound has an impact on Royston’s game. He’s the kind of player who passes the eye test a lot, but the production just hasn’t been there. He has some really intriguing tools. His combination of size and speed makes him a very dangerous North/South attacker. When he’s dialed in physically, he’s impactful in all three zones and in puck pursuit. However, the consistency just hasn’t been there. And the hands aren’t always moving at the same speed as his feet, which can lead to some ugly plays. But, I just wonder…in today’s hockey development landscape, is he the kind of guy who plays another year or two of OHL hockey, then a couple more in the NCAA, and then really pops when he fills out and finds his niche?
29. Ben Reisnecker - Defense - Niagara IceDogs
It can sometimes take a few months for Import defenders to find their footing and Reisnecker is looking better and better by the month. The big, right shot defender brings a physical edge, can start the breakout, and has shown to be detail oriented in the defensive end. There are parallels to when a guy like Erik Cernak was in the league. I do think that there is room for him to improve his skating, in particular his transitions and his lateral quickness. There have been times where he’s been beaten off the rush and had trouble defending downhill. But, if he keeps progressing well, he’s the kind of guy NHL scouts will be all over in the mid rounds.
30. Ryder Fetterolf - Goaltender - Ottawa 67’s
Seriously, how could you not be impressed by this young man’s play of late? He has been absolutely lights out for the 67’s. His compete level in the crease is off the charts good. He never gives up on a play and has the athleticism to make those second/third chance saves look easy. He covers his posts really well and fights for sight lines to make up for his average size (or below average size depending on how you view things). His rebound control isn’t fantastic and he can get caught deep in his crease at times, or lose his angles, but he’s also playing in his first year above the Prep level. It’s a big adjustment. Smaller goalies can be tougher to scout for sure, so what I’m looking for is how Fetterolf makes adjustments once the league makes adjustments to him. Similar to a guy like Ben Hrebik last year. Can he keep up this high level of play?
31. Parker Vaughan - Wing - North Bay Battalion
Similar to a guy like Royston, I don’t think Vaughan has been poor this year despite pedestrian production. He’s getting good ice time in North Bay and he’s earning it by playing hard. He’s definitely your classic North/South power winger who gets to the net, who likes to drive wide with speed, and who is active on the forecheck. I certainly had higher expectations for his goal scoring this year and he’s had some trouble finishing off plays this year. Makes you wonder about the offensive upside. But, I think the tools are there and he deserves to be ranked fairly high still. If by say…the end of January the points are still not coming, then he probably needs to be dropped a bit.
32. Leon Kolarik - Wing - Peterborough Petes
Kolarik has definitely been a bright spot for the Petes; I've appreciated his consistency. He's a really well rounded player. But, with average size, is it also concerning that he doesn't have a true standout trait? What's the upside?
33. Aiden O’Donnell - Wing - Oshawa Generals
His production has really fallen off a cliff since the trade to Oshawa, as he's no longer playing third wheel to Malhotra and Cooper Dennis in Brantford. I always find guys like O'Donnell hard to project. It's obvious that he's an intelligent player. Does most of his damage away from the puck and is an opportunistic player offensively. Frame and skating are solid. However, what truly makes guys like O'Donnell NHL level players? Want to see more from him on the puck in Oshawa with a different kind of opportunity.
34. Lucas Ambrosio - Defense - Erie Otters
It's easy to see why NHL Central Scouting has Ambrosio graded as a "B" level player. He's big, he moves well, and he has solid defensive upside because of it. I just have found him to be a pure non factor with the puck in my viewings and even the best stay at home types at the NHL level were able to make offensive plays in junior. I'll be keeping a close eye on him the rest of the way to see if he can clean things up a bit.
35. Matej Stankoven - Center - Brampton Steelheads
Brampton's hot start as a team has proven to be a bit of a mirage and now they're crashing back down to where many expected them to be. Stankoven has been a solid contributor as one of the team's top pivots. He's a solid two-way player. He skates well. I don't think the NHL upside is significant, but he's worthy of a spot at this point in time.
36. Beksultan Makysh - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
After an incredibly hot start to the year, Makysh has been much less of a factor since. He's certainly skilled and his shot is a major weapon. However, he's undersized and I wouldn't call him a high end skater. Curious to see how he adapts to a lesser role the rest of the year.
37. Evgeny Dubrovtsev - Center - North Bay Battalion
The opposite of Makysh at this point. Dubrovtsev seems to be getting better week by week. I like his skill and touch as a playmaker. Fairly strong skater who can exploit gaps. Is he hitting his stride or riding a hot streak as I finalize these rankings?
38. Joseph Salandra - Wing - Barrie Colts
A guy that I just wish was a little bigger/quicker. I think that the rest is all there. He's an incredibly hard worker. I think his offensive zone instincts are excellent. Protects the puck well. Has good defensive zone instincts too. But, he's a bottom six kind of guy at the higher levels and at his size, I wonder if he gets a sniff.
39. Rylan Singh - Defense - Guelph Storm
Kind of a strange OHL career arc happening here. Singh's become more of a factor in the defensive end this year, rather than the offensive end. I don't think that's going to be his calling card as a professional player, but it's a positive sign. That said, scouts are going to want him to be more of a factor offensively given his frame and skill set. With the Storm surging up the standings, can he have a great second half?
40. Ondrej Ruml - Defense - Ottawa 67's
Seems to be turning a corner lately, similar to fellow Czech Reisnecker. Ruml is a very different kind of player though. Strong skater, puck mover who can impact the transition game in a really positive way. Surprises with some physicality from time to time too. Wish he were bigger, but he'll be on the draft radar if he keeps improving.
41. Elliot Arnett - Defense - Owen Sound Attack
Think of a guy like Tyler Tucker, or Zach Bell. I really love watching Arnett play because of how physically aggressive he is. This guy is an absolute warrior on the ice. He's going to be a top notch defensive defender in this league. The only issue is that I think his skating needs to come a way and his play with the puck is pretty inconsistent.
42. Ryder Carey - Wing - North Bay Battalion
Gritty glue guy is the best way to describe Carey. It's what he was back for that strong Oakville U16 team and it's what he has become for North Bay. He works hard to earn touches. He has a solid frame/skating combination. He takes care of the puck and works well off his teammates. He gets to the net and has solid hands. The offensive upside likely isn't high. But I could see Carey carving out a career like a Matt Hendricks type.
43. Alex McLean - Center/Wing - Guelph Storm
McLean is kind of a tough one. I have no doubt that he will be an excellent OHL player at some point. But, what is he at the higher levels? Doesn't have the ideal frame to be a bottom six player in today's NHL and may not be skilled/creative enough to be a top six player. But, he's a solid player with a well rounded skill set. Skates pretty well. Versatile and a hard worker. Smart player. Production needs to tick up if he wants to be selected.
44. Ryan Brown - Wing - Sarnia Sting
We've been patiently waiting for the Ryan Brown breakout year to happen and we're still waiting. It's tough because I like the player and do believe in him. He's a really hard worker in the offensive end. He loves to push pace and he's active on the forecheck and along the wall. But, you have to wonder if we've been overestimating his skill level and finishing ability. As a late born '07, I think the production needs to improve for him to be selected. Let's see how he does under a new coach.
45. Jason Schaubel - Goaltender - Kitchener Rangers
Smaller netminder who's very quick and agile; he's an excellent athlete. Really covers his posts well. As 6'0 goalie, he needs to be more consistent. He needs to be more consistently aggressive in challenging shooters and to fight for sight lines. Can get beat high. I think he's going to be a standout netminder in this league, but more than that? I'm just not sure.
46. Logan Hawery - Wing - London Knights
You just know that Hawery is going to pop off at some point in the near future. There's some Denver Barkey to his game. But, consistency has been a major issue thus far and not just because of fluctuating ice time. He goes stretches without doing a whole heck of a lot. He's got such a good shot, but he's not getting himself consistent looks to use it. He just needs to get quicker/stronger to play the way that he needs to at his size. Upside is there.
47. Colin Feeley - Defense - Oshawa Generals
Massive defender who shows some intriguing defensive upside. He's a beanpole out there and you want to see him be more assertive physically, but the reach is so disruptive. He's awkward in his transitions and he'll need to work on his four way mobility, but it's not terrible. Could see an NHL team taking interest in the later rounds.
48. Adam Levac - Center - Peterborough Petes
He probably should be higher. He's been a solid secondary player for the Petes this year. OK size as a pivot and he's a hard worker. Has had some real success getting to the net this year. I'm just not sure what the upside is. Not a dynamic skater or a high skill guy. He's the Carson Harmer, Liam Beamish, or Lucas Karmiris of this year and none were selected last year.
49. Cole Emerton - Defense - Barrie Colts
He's been rock solid for the Colts this year. Based on pure performance and impact, he deserves to be higher. However, NHL scouts are going to be pretty skeptical of his NHL career. One of those jacks of all trades types who lacks ideal size. Strong four way mobility, but not a dynamic or creative defender. Intelligent on puck defender, but not a physical guy. Wanted to give him a shoutout even though he didn't get listed by NHL Central Scouting.
50. Vladislav Yermolenko - Goaltender - Niagara IceDogs
Don't quite know what to make of Yermolenko yet. He's had some amazing performances and he's had some really weak ones where he's given up some softies. He has quick pads and takes away the bottom of the net well, but I think there's room for improvement in his quickness and athleticism. If he were 6'3/6'4, I think that he'd be a better NHL prospect and higher ranked, but at 6'1, I'm not sure if he's a serious candidate in what looks like a real down year for netminders in the CHL.
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