
Vojtěch Čihař’s Crossroads: Choosing Between Europe, WHL and the AHL
After a silver‑medal performance at the U‑20 World Juniors and a MVP award in the WHL, the European import faces three distinct pathways for the upcoming campaign.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Ontario Reign across Hockey.

After a silver‑medal performance at the U‑20 World Juniors and a MVP award in the WHL, the European import faces three distinct pathways for the upcoming campaign.

The Los Angeles Kings have officially signed forward Francesco Pinelli to a one‑year, two‑way contract worth $850,000 per season through the 2026‑27 campaign. The move adds depth to the roster and introduces a player with a strong AHL record, European championship experience, and international representation.

At 23, Martin Chromiak has signed a one‑year deal with the Kings and topped the Ontario Reign in scoring last season. With the club thin at center and several wingers competing for ice time, his performance in camp could determine whether he makes the opening night roster.

The Boston Bruins are pursuing restricted free‑agent defenseman Jordan Spence from the Ottawa Senators to address a shortage of right‑shot blue‑line talent, weighing contract scenarios and roster implications.

With 13 players set to become free agents, the Reign must balance performance, contract status and depth needs to shape a competitive lineup for next season.

The Ontario Reign announced a comprehensive brand evolution during its Summer Bash at the Toyota Arena, revealing a new logo, jersey styles and color scheme that honor the franchise’s history and its connection to Ontario’s auto‑racing legacy as it prepares for its 60th‑anniversary season.

With the Carolina Hurricanes needing just one win to capture their first championship in 20 years, the league sees blockbuster trade chatter, coaching rumors, and a nostalgic color return.

The Ontario Reign have rolled out a fresh visual identity, featuring a redesigned logo, new wordmarks, and a modern color palette, alongside pre‑orderable jerseys and a launch video that highlight the team’s ties to the Inland Empire.

The Ontario Reign announced a comprehensive visual overhaul, revealing a new logo, color palette and apparel that honor the team's roots while celebrating its connection to the Los Angeles Kings as they approach their 60th season.

Matt McIlvane, a seasoned coach with international experience, has accepted an assistant coaching role with the Boston Bruins for the 2026‑27 season, bringing a proven track record of defensive development and player communication.

Martin Chromiak signs a one‑year, two‑way contract with the Los Angeles Kings after a career‑high season with the Ontario Reign, bringing AHL productivity and international experience to the roster.

Otto Salin, a fifth‑round pick of the 2022 NHL Draft, has begun to carve out a niche within the Los Angeles Kings organization after signing a three‑year entry‑level contract that includes a professional tryout. His move from Finland’s Liiga to the AHL’s Ontario Reign marks a pivotal step in his development.

Kirill Kirsanov’s 2025‑26 campaign with the Ontario Reign showcased his defensive prowess, a productive partnership with Angus Booth, and a promising trajectory for the young Russian blue‑liner.

Angus Booth's breakout 2025‑26 season with the Ontario Reign culminated in an NHL debut and a glimpse of future potential, despite a crowded Kings blue line.

Nikita Novikov’s short tenure with the Ontario Reign saw limited offensive production but valuable playoff experience, setting the stage for his return to the Buffalo Sabres organization.

A look at the defenseman's injury-plagued campaign, his brief contributions, and what lies ahead after his contract expires.

Jack Millar’s second season with the Ontario Reign combined a strong defensive presence with a modest offensive output, culminating in a contract that expires this summer and could see him re‑join the club.

Koehn Ziemmer’s 2025‑26 season with the Ontario Reign showcases a blend of skill, physicality, and clutch performance, hinting at a bright future despite areas needing refinement.

After posting career‑high totals in goals, assists and points, Martin Chromiak secured a one‑year NHL deal with the Los Angeles Kings, yet limited roster spots leave his long‑term future in doubt.

The Seattle Kraken’s AHL affiliates have delivered dramatic playoff performances, highlighted by the Firebirds’ youthful surge and the Mavericks’ early dominance, setting the stage for new collaborations.

The Seattle Kraken are poised to make a notable selection at the top of the upcoming NHL Draft, eyeing University of North Dakota defenseman Keaton Verhoeff as a potential cornerstone for their blue line. Meanwhile, the Coachella Valley Firebirds are locked in a tightly contested series against the Colorado Eagles, with J.R. Avon delivering a pivotal performance. The Kraken's ECHL affiliate, the Kansas City Mavericks, have completed a four‑game sweep of the Mountain Division Finals, extending their perfect postseason record.

Chicago Wolves defeat Grand Rapids Griffins 2-1 in the first game of their playoff series, with Josiah Slavin scoring the decisive goal and goaltender Michal Postava making 30 saves.

The author looks back on five seasons chronicling the Ontario Reign, celebrating a Pacific Division title and a heartbreaking double‑overtime playoff loss, while thanking the team, broadcast partners, and fans as the offseason looms.