The 2026 NHL Draft spotlight turned to the Ontario Hockey League as four standout prospects earned contracts and began carving out professional trajectories.
Ryder Fetterolf, the first OHL goaltender selected, signed with the Ottawa 67’s as an undrafted free agent and quickly became a cornerstone of the club’s defense.
During his rookie campaign he posted a record‑breaking goals‑against average, led the CHL in save percentage and recorded six shutouts, earning CHL Goaltender of the Year honors.
International Impact
Filip Ekberg contributed 46 points for the Ottawa 67’s and earned a spot on Sweden’s roster for the 2026 World Junior Summer Showcase, where he topped the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship with ten goals.
Zachary Jovanovski, the second OHL net‑minder drafted, appeared in 52 games for the Guelph Storm, finishing with a 25‑20‑4 record and a 3.39 goals‑against average.
Evan Vierling, after a prolific junior stint, debuted with the Chicago Wolves, tallying 35 points in 70 games and adding six assists in the Calder Cup finals while staying disciplined with only 12 penalty minutes.
Bryce Montgomery split time between the AHL’s Chicago Wolves and the ECHL’s Greensboro Gargoyles, registering four assists in 24 AHL appearances.