The Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds announced today the addition of 18‑year‑old Doman Szongoth, a Hungarian forward who has already made waves on the international stage. The club revealed that Szongoth has signed a contract that will see him join the OHL roster for the upcoming season, marking a significant step in his transatlantic development.
Szongoth’s journey to the Greyhounds began when he was selected in the first round of the 2025 CHL Import Draft, a pathway that linked him to the Buffalo Sabres, who had originally drafted him in the fifth round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. That draft night placed him among only five Hungarian players ever chosen in the NHL’s history, underscoring the rarity of his achievement.
Before arriving in Canada, Szongoth spent the 2025‑26 campaign with KooKoo U20 in Finland’s SM‑sarja league, where he posted 10 goals and 18 assists over 44 games. His performance there was complemented by four straight seasons of senior international duty, culminating in a leading role for Hungary at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he logged the most ice time among Hungarian forwards.
His résumé also includes a standout showing at the 2024 Olympic Qualifying tournament at age 16, where he topped the scoring charts for Hungary’s U18 team in Group A of the Division 1 competition. Those experiences have been cited by analysts as evidence of a player who combines offensive flair with a mature, two‑way work ethic.
A Multifaceted Talent
What sets Szongoth apart is not just his skill set but the way he blends physical maturity with positional intelligence. Coaches describe him as a player who can shift seamlessly between offensive bursts and defensive responsibilities, making him a versatile asset in any lineup.
GM’s Vision
General manager Kyle Raftis praised the forward’s “two‑way play, positional intelligence, and competitive maturity,” adding that the organization is excited to see how his offensive skill and physical frame will translate to the OHL’s fast‑paced environment.
In his own words, Szongoth expressed enthusiasm about joining the Greyhounds, emphasizing his work ethic, character, and commitment to contributing to the team’s development. He said he looks forward to earning the trust of fans and teammates alike while continuing to grow as a player.
Implications for the OHL
The Greyhounds’ decision to bring in a player of Szongoth’s caliber signals an aggressive stance toward bolstering their forward depth. Analysts predict that his presence could elevate the team’s offensive output and provide a reliable option in crucial situations, especially during power‑play scenarios.