Oshawa Generals 2026-27 Season Preview
Oshawa is coming off a rough 2025-26 season, finishing with a 19-45-3-1 record that left them fifth in the East Division and last in the entire OHL — a steep fall after back-to-back trips to the OHL Championship Series, including a runner-up finish in 2024-25. That last-place finish did come with a silver lining: Oshawa won the OHL Priority Selection Lottery and picked first overall in June's draft, selecting promising young star Kane Cloutier. For a team like Oshawa in its current state, the draft (or Priority Selection) is the most important time of the year. On top of drafting Cloutier first overall, they also selected Jakub Kuklinski in the second round, 38th overall — a player who led the GTHL in goals. Safe to say they had a promising draft with those two selections.
With the players added in the draft and the returning core, Oshawa is in an interesting position for a rebuilding team, and could really go in either direction this season. There's a world where Oshawa rebounds and becomes competitive again. But there's also a very real possibility that last season was just the start of their rebuild, and depending on how they begin the season, it will heavily impact the future of the team and certain players.
In this article, I'll cover each position, highlighting three or four players for the Generals this season, while noting what I expect and what's realistically needed from each group.
Roster Preview: Goalies
Looking ahead to the season, the roster on paper has some question marks. Most notably is the goaltending, where there are many different potential candidates for the starting job.
First up is Jaden Cholette, who on paper had a pretty rough season, posting a 3.71 goals-against average (GAA) and a .887 save percentage in 43 games. It's important to note that Oshawa was a very bad team last year, so the likelihood of a goaltender posting at least a .900 save percentage isn't all that high. Given that context, the numbers are still nothing to get excited about. Cholette is 20 years old, turning 21 during the season, and just played his first season in the OHL — I wouldn't expect anything significant in terms of growth from him. The good news, though, is that there's no clear number-one goalie, so he'll have an opportunity this season to prove himself — after all, he did play more games than any other Generals goaltender last season. At the same time, however, he's an overager, so by default he could be the odd man out. Only time will tell for Cholette's future.
Matthew Humphries is another candidate in net for the Generals, and much like Cholette, he did not have good numbers. He posted a 3.73 GAA, a .888 save percentage, and a 4-15-3 record in 24 games for the Generals after coming over from Niagara in a trade. His 2024-25 season with Niagara was even worse, posting a 5.79 GAA and a .832 save percentage with a 0-10-1 record. So Humphries did improve last season, to say the least. He also spent time last season in the OJHL with Aurora, where he posted a 3.55 GAA but a .911 save percentage. This is very encouraging and it suggests that there was more to his performance rather than the raw goals against numbers may indicate. That production, plus the trade to Oshawa last season, makes me wonder if there's real potential here — this season will be a big test for him.
Perhaps the most interesting option in net is Cruz Reznik. Acquired in the offseason by Oshawa in a deal that sent forward Owen Griffin to Guelph, Reznik is the youngest of the options, turning 18 during the season. This will be his first OHL season playing more than just a single game, as he's projected to get a longer look with the Generals this year. His stats in the GOHL weren't anything special, posting a 3.44 GAA and a .894 save percentage.
The last goalie potentially involved in the carousel is Isaac Gravelle. His numbers last season, albeit in only 10 games, were terrible as well — a 5.05 GAA and a .850 save percentage. Much like the other goalies, there isn't much to take away from those stats. It simply comes down to whether Oshawa can tighten up defensively and allow fewer shots. If they allow fewer shots, we'll get a better sense of whether these goaltenders are truly OHL-ready. If they allow the same volume as last season, expect numbers similar to last year — above a 3.00 GAA and below a .890 save percentage — unless one of the returning goalies takes a massive step forward.
There are a few more goalies worth mentioning: Noah Spiteri, drafted 282nd overall by Oshawa in the OHL Priority Selection; Owen Maclean, drafted 239th overall in 2024; Trent Hutchinson, drafted in 2025 in the U18 Priority Selection; Alex Kerr, drafted 237th overall in 2025; and Reid Thomas, who actually appeared in one game for the Generals last season and looked good in it, picking up a win with 20 saves and allowing just one goal. Of these goalies, if I had to predict who could push for a roster spot in net, I'd say either Hutchinson or Thomas. Hutchinson has posted at-least-average numbers throughout his career while continuing to improve his technical skills in net, while Thomas has shown he can play at this level despite not putting up eye-popping numbers in the OJHL in previous seasons.
Roster Preview: Defencemen
Another area of concern that goes hand-in-hand with the goaltending is the Generals' defence. It was arguably the biggest weakness for the Generals last season, especially once they traded former Generals captain and shutdown defenceman Ben Danford.
I believe the best defenceman to watch this season is Leo Laschon. He was eligible for this past June's NHL Draft but went unselected. In my opinion, there's real potential here, especially defensively — his skating and stickwork make him stand out. He's most impressive off the rush defensively, using his frame and stick to angle off the offence while maintaining aggression. His numbers last season on paper weren't anything to be too thrilled about, putting up 13 points in 50 games while posting a minus-2 rating. But his game isn't offence-first, and considering Oshawa won only 19 games last season, a minus-2 is quite impressive — he ranked first on the team in plus-minus among players who appeared in at least 15 games. He received recognition around the league too, earning OHL East Top Prospects honours. At 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, he isn't a small defenceman, but he isn't the tallest either, so he relies on his defensive skills to stand out. Laschon gives the vibe of a Brett Pesce — someone who wasn't known for offense in college but stood out due to his elite defensive game. If Laschon continues developing his craft, or, more importantly, if Oshawa plays better this season, his talent should get more recognition and I could easily see him finding his way into pro hockey.
Similar to Laschon is Brady Murnane, a 6-foot-4, 200-pound left-shot defenceman valued for his defensive game. He also went unselected in this past June's NHL Draft, and just wrapped up his first OHL season. Once again like Laschon, Murnane was named to the OHL East Top Prospects team. One trait that stands out is his skating — specifically how smart he is when tracking puck-carriers. Instead of full bursts of speed to catch up, he uses more conservative movements that keep him from getting caught out of position. His frame and defensive skills force opponents wider than they'd like, and, like Laschon, he plays with an active stick that keeps opponents reacting.
Another defenceman to keep an eye on is Anthony Timmerman. He turns 17 in October and just wrapped up his first OHL season. His rookie season wasn't much to write home about — 52 games played but just 2 goals and 7 points, with a minus-27 rating. However, he's expected to be in the running to quarterback the top power-play unit, though he'll have to prove himself as an undersized left-shot defenceman. Standing at 5-foot-11 and 179 pounds, Timmerman showed flashes of potential last season, mostly through his mobility and puck control. Playing 52 games as an undersized 16-year-old on a rebuilding Oshawa team shows real confidence from both sides.
The last defenceman I want to cover is one who may not even play this season: Matyas Michalek, the Generals' first-overall pick in the 2026 CHL Import Draft. The rumour as of now is that if Michalek were to play this season, he would come over in January, but it mostly depends on how his season in Czechia goes. The need for a true number-one defenceman in Oshawa is urgent, and Michalek offers the most long-term potential to fill that role — but we're likely at least a season or two away from seeing it. Regardless, if he does appear in Generals games this season, the 6-foot-3, 187-pound left-shot brings a strong two-way game, built around the combination of size, skating, poise, and instincts on both ends of the ice. Even if he doesn't play this season, the future looks bright for Oshawa's blueline.
Roster Preview: Forwards
In my opinion, the success of the Generals will be determined by the forward corps. On paper there is real potential here, with a solid mix of established OHL producers, young talent, and returning players looking to prove themselves.
The clear star is Brooks Rogowski. The 6-foot-7 centre was drafted 33rd overall by the Vancouver Canucks and was one of the few bright spots for Oshawa last season, posting 42 points in 46 games, including 15 goals. His combination of size, strength, puck protection, and rebound recovery is exactly the style you'd want from someone his frame, and on top of that, he provides real all-around value as a potential penalty killer thanks to his long reach. On top of using his size to create offence, he also uses it to be a physical force — he's fit into Team USA lineups at the U18 and U20 levels, sometimes as a fourth-line centre serving as an absolute wrecking ball, other times playing higher in the lineup and making early statements with his hits. The talent is real with Rogowski, and he's someone Oshawa absolutely needs to maximize as their number-one centre. He has committed to Michigan State for the 2027-28 season, meaning this season will be his last in the OHL. Knowing this, there's added pressure on the Generals to make sure they don't waste Rogowski's last season. If they start slow and look like a young, rebuilding team going through growing pains, don't be surprised to see a trade sending Rogowski to a contender.
Aiden O'Donnell is another player the Generals will lean on this season, most likely on the top line at left wing next to Rogowski. His numbers last season were solid, though split between two teams — Brantford and Oshawa — as part of the blockbuster Ben Danford trade. He had 8 points in 14 games with Brantford and 17 points in 31 games with Oshawa, putting his season totals at 31 points in 45 games, with 11 goals. One of his best traits is how heavy a game he plays. Despite being just 6-foot-1, he uses his body extremely well along the walls, whether with the puck or on the forecheck. His forechecking is relentless, and he does it with a good feel for the game, looking to create plays up the middle immediately after winning the puck back.
Expect to see a strong season of development from Tyler Hinde. The 17-year-old exploded in the OJHL last season for 76 points in 47 games, winning OJHL Rookie of the Year and becoming a finalist for CJHL Top Rookie — a huge accomplishment, since that award covers all of Canadian junior hockey. He appeared in 14 games with Oshawa last season, posting just 2 points (a goal and an assist) with a minus-11 rating. Clearly the adjustment to the OHL was difficult for Hinde, and making that jump with a 19-win team probably didn't help. Still, the potential is real — he possesses a great combination of playmaking and size. Standing at 6-foot-3, he uses his size well for offence, but not in the same way Rogowski does — Hinde combines his frame with quickness to create plays.
On a similar path as Hinde is Sam Roberts. He's coming off an underwhelming rookie OHL season with the Generals, posting just 9 points in 55 games. However, it's not unrealistic to expect a big step in development from him heading into his second season with Oshawa. The skill set is there — it's more a matter of consistency, as his frame (6-foot-1), shot-creation ability, and offensive instincts are real strengths. He plays a powerful game, using his body to work down low in corners and battle along the boards tenaciously. The tools are there. This season will be huge for him — his draft year is 2028, and he needs to build on a disappointing rookie campaign.
Kane Cloutier is a potential franchise-changing talent, plain and simple. After being drafted first overall by the Generals, he is expected to fill at least a top-nine role, but in my opinion, that will quickly change to at least a top-six role. Cloutier is an offensive dynamo who plays a very fast and skillful game, often using his pace to separate himself from defenders. His numbers for the Vaughan Kings in the GTHL were incredible — 58 points in 33 games with 32 goals. That offensive ability is very welcome in Oshawa, and the way he plays should add a real dimension to the Generals' offence. With Rogowski and O'Donnell playing a physical, wall-battling game on one line, and Cloutier speeding through the neutral zone with elegant stickhandling on another, this kind of offensive balance should make Oshawa much more dangerous. This kid is very special, and I look forward to watching his rookie season.
Another promising player selected in the OHL Priority Selection is Jakub Kuklinski, taken in the second round, 38th overall. Honestly, it's shocking that the GTHL's goal-scoring leader lasted until the second round, but for the Generals, that's a very welcome surprise. Kuklinski had 59 points in 32 games with 35 goals for the Mississauga Senators. His offensive talent is real, as his stats show, but he also plays a strong power-forward style for a winger, using his body effectively. Despite being just 5-foot-10 and 179 pounds, he can play along the wall as a power winger and isn't afraid to drive the net. His shot is, of course, very special — excellent hands, with explosive power generated from seemingly small openings. Purposeful or not, his style complements Cloutier's very well and vice versa — perhaps future linemates?
The last forward I want to cover is Ethan Cava, the third first-overall pick Oshawa made in 2026, this one coming via the U18 Priority Selection. The 17-year-old centre stands at 6-foot-5 and recorded 40 points in 42 games in the SIJHL last season. While it's hard to predict where Cava plays this season — mostly because he hasn't even played in the OJHL yet — it felt necessary to mention him, since he was one of Oshawa's three first-overall picks. He has good vision and playmaking abilities, especially for someone his size, and on top of that, he's also responsible in all three zones and possesses a strong hockey IQ. It'll be interesting to see where Cava plays this season. He was invited to Oshawa's training camp, but I wouldn't be surprised if the 17-year-old spends a season in the OJHL first.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this roster is in a very interesting spot. The forward corps, in my opinion, is the real strength — a genuine star in Brooks Rogowski, a future star in Kane Cloutier, several solid top-six-to-nine options in O'Donnell, Kalto, and Hinde, and a few overagers who should help too, like Harrison Franssen. There's a possibility this group leads Oshawa out of the OHL basement, but if there are growing pains for players like Cloutier, Hinde, and Kuklinski — or if depth scoring becomes a problem — the team could very well end up right back where it was last season.
Defensively, this team lacks a true number-one defenceman. Players like Laschon and Murnane are solid top-four defencemen, but they'll need to take another step if Oshawa wants to be more consistent defensively. Timmerman is certainly someone who can take a developmental step, but realistically, will that step be big enough to solve Oshawa's lack of a true number-one defenceman and power-play quarterback? I think, best case, one of Laschon or Murnane logs 22-plus minutes a night — if not both — and Timmerman handles power-play duties on the blueline. But there's also a strong possibility the improvements are marginal and aren't enough to truly solve the problems Oshawa has on the back end.
As for goaltending, there's potential for a tandem featuring some combination of Humphries, Reznik, Gravelle, and Cholette. The hope is that one eventually outperforms the rest and claims the starting job, but a lot would need to go right for that to happen, especially given the question marks on defence. I do believe Humphries and Reznik could be a solid tandem, with Gravelle getting some looks too. In my opinion, Cholette may be the odd man out given his overager status, but if not, he's shown he can handle a 40-plus-game workload, which could relieve some pressure on the younger goaltenders. It's tough to predict how the goaltending shakes out, especially with no clear tandem set in stone, but much like the defence, this group is lacking a true number-one goalie.
My final prediction for the Generals this season is a 25-to-30-win season, perhaps barely squeaking into the playoffs, but more likely missing out once again. I think Oshawa is talented enough to improve significantly from last season, but the uncertainty in net and on defence makes it difficult to project them as legitimate contenders for a playoff spot. In my opinion, it really depends on how Oshawa starts the season. If they go on another eight-game losing streak like they did last season, expect trades aimed at landing another top draft pick. But if they play well enough to be in and around a playoff spot, that's where the team could build real momentum — and the Generals might stand pat, or even add pieces, in hopes of making the most of Rogowski's final season in the OHL.
All statistics were found from hockeydb.com, with additional information gathered from eliteprospects.com and chl.ca. All evaluations and analysis are made by myself.
Written by: Jalen Perera-Satgunem