The OHL Podcast

Critics claimed we'd never see the day, but ground has been broken on a new arena for Sudbury. The guys have a discussion and offer a condition for the move to new digs in the Nickel City. Meantime, an arena just as old as Sudbury's is going to get some new additions as the Kitchener Rangers install a "Level of Legacy." And if you thought the USHL was going down with a whimper as the OHL talks about "aggressive expansion," well, you haven't been listening to USHL Commissioner Glenn Hefferan. Farwell and Dan also have a look at every market in the league with the weekly Wraparound, which hints at some surprises and raises some concerns. And speaking of concerns, why are fans in Ottawa worried about the coaching of their unbeaten team?? Plus, your first Prospects of the Week this season and a story that connects an OHL player from 75 years ago with an OHL player on the ice today. We've got all of this for you this week, plus stories about broken down Zambonis and references to Carrot Top. And we all know that there's only one place you're getting content like this. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We heard your complaints and the absences were noticeable at the games we watched. The OHL season launched with some big-time match-ups while big-name players were still away at pro camps. But could this year be the worst year we've seen it? The guys have a hopeful answer. Plus, Commissioner Crawford makes it clear that while we've all been distracted by the NCAA rule change, OHL expansion is still very much on the table. You'll also get a glimpse into every market in the league as The Wraparound returns for another season and Dan's got even MORE predictions -- because what's an early season pod without some fearless predictions? The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you like the small-town feel of junior hockey and the "charm" of some of those older, character-filled arenas, it's time to brace for a new reality. The OHL is asking current markets to step up, or other markets will be happy to take on a franchise. Also this week, the GOJHL becomes the OHL's first official development league and the ongoing recruitment war between the CHL and the NCAA gets a little petty. Plus, as the OHL regular season looms, the guys have a preview of the Western Conference, complete with predictions. You'll laugh! You'll cry! You'll be chirping these guys until Christmas... The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's a new OHL season full of promise, unless you're dumb enough to try and predict the finishing order of all ten teams in the Eastern Conference. Why should you do that, though, when Dan and Farwell are plenty dumb enough to do it for you? The guys give it the ol' college try in predicting this year's Eastern Conference and, speaking of college, that NCAA rule change is still making waves. Plus, there's a potential that more players will move to the AHL early, and a guarantee that either Kitchener or Guelph will host the 2027 Memorial Cup (the guys think they know which market will win the bid). We've also got rule changes aplenty, and plenty of complaints about the OHL's new jersey sponsor (just not from Farwell). All in all, plenty to fill your ears after a summer away. Hope your break was great! Farwell and Dan are looking forward to bringing you another season of OHL analysis, bad takes, and information from around the league. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As expected, the OHL had a dominant showing at the NHL draft, with five of the first eight selections coming from the league and an overall showing that was the best the OHL has had in almost a decade. Farwell and Dan break it down and also clean a few other things out of the notebook as we head into summer, including the trade of a two-time OHL champion and a new market to emerge as a Memorial Cup bidder. Plus, just for fun in our final episode of the 2025/26 season, we make it a family affair with an appearance from Dan's older brother (who also happens to be an old friend of Farwell's). Matt Meagher makes his home in Ottawa and brings us a fan's perspective of the new arena that will be built and how strong the 67's brand remains in the nation's capital. We might pop up from time to time over the summer if news warrants an appearance, and we're always willing to talk junior hockey via email at ohlpodcast@rogers.com. In the meantime, don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review or comment! It all helps to maintain our momentum as we look forward to a late-summer return ahead of the next OHL season. Thanks for your loyalty in helping us become the top junior hockey podcast in Ontario! Enjoy the summer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fans of the Ontario Hockey League won't have to wait long this weekend to hear the names of their favourite players called at the NHL draft. Farwell and Dan dive in on a couple of top defence prospects and look at a first round that could see a handful of OHL'ers picked in the Top 10. And speaking of the NHL, could the new CBA further impact the OHL and its older players? The guys have some answers. Plus, the Niagara Ice Dogs hire their new coach and we're hopeful of a new era in a market where fans deserve better. Meantime, there are no surprises with the OHL schedule (but the rivalries look fun), there is a surprise in the NHL coaching ranks (with a junior connection), and could the end of fighting be near (we hope not, but what say you)? Email us anytime at ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We've been wanting to do this for awhile, and this week is the week. Farwell and Dan cross over with Brandon Caputo, Reece Doumani, and Colin Ward of the Armchair GM's Sports Network for a podcast experience you won't want to miss. This episode includes an in-depth analysis of a couple of the Ontario Hockey League's most interesting markets, some background on the origins of an OHL-focused podcast, and it makes an attempt to answer the question every OHL fan wants answered: what's the deal with those London Knights?! Believe it or not, even Dale Hunter makes an appearance. And, for some reason, an OHL newspaper reporter gets about as much attention as Kaden McGregor, this year's first overall pick. Don't forget to leave us a review and tell us what you like and don't like anytime via email to ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been famously said in Canada that if you don't like your weather out the front door, just take a look out the back door instead, where you're sure to find something more to your liking. Similar phrasing might be appropriate when discussing the NCAA rule change that has shifted the ground beneath junior hockey in Canada: if you don't like how the rule change is impacting the CHL this week, just wait a week and your feelings are likely to change. The environment has been that turbulent in this new era, which currently still resembles the wild, wild west. And the rollercoaster ride isn't likely to end anytime soon, so just let Farwell and Dan be your steady hands as we navigate this new landscape (trust us, we tried to get a hot take out of Dan this week and he wouldn't bite). The guys this week discuss how the tide has turned back in the OHL's direction, and the lengths that teams are going through to set themselves apart. Also, the Branch era in the OHL appears to have officially ended. Then, it's off to Oshawa where a strange coaching carousel continues to rotate and the marquee franchise pours cold water on sale rumours (remember what we always say about rumours in the OHL??). Finally, McCue is on the move again and the guys like the destination. But they don't like what happened to an old friend in the NHL. Send us feedback anytime to ohlpodcast@rogers.com and don't forget to follow us on Instagram (@theohlpodcast). The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's hard not to admire greatness and the London Knights put on a show for the ages this season, starting the campaign on a mission to win a Memorial Cup and becoming just the fourth team in the past 53 years to win three (joining Windsor, Cornwall, and Kamloops). London's trio of trophies have all come since 2005, while Windsor won their three in a 9-year span (discuss amongst yourselves). No matter how you slice it, it's impressive as hell and haters are gonna hate, but you have to tap your stick to the Knights, their program, and their relentless pursuit of the 2025 title. London lost just one OHL playoff game and one Memorial Cup game en route to the championship. There's more to the OHL than London, though, and the guys have got concerns that the North American junior-aged hockey scales are beginning to tilt the NCAA's way. Plus, Barrie will have to get used to life without Marty behind the bench, the IceDogs find their GM, and OA goalies might have to find a place to play as the OHL decides against allowing an extra 20-year old roster spot for netminders. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's never been a secret that the London Knights were on a mission this season. And, despite some early resistance at the Memorial Cup, the mission remains on track. The guys talk about why the big prize is still in the Knights' sights. Then, it's off to Rimouski to join one of the most seasoned OHL voices. Terry Doyle has been to 24 straight Memorial Cups and he gives us the inside track on how a smaller market like Rimouski is handling its hosting duties, why this tournament matters so much and, by the time this episode is over, maybe you, too, will be "Doyle-ing" TVs. It's almost time to crown a Canadian junior hockey champion and Farwell and Dan think they already know who it will be. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you feel bad for Oshawa or are you in awe of London? Probably depends where you live, eh? But Farwell and Dan break down how the Knights did what they did -- again -- and analyze their chances in Rimouski. Plus, with the OHL season done for 19 teams, the guys have their eyes on a team from each conference that is likely to have an interesting off-season or season ahead. Meanwhile, the NCAA rule change continues to make waves (and those waves are getting bigger) and it might be the most shocking Performer of the Week this podcast has ever selected. Oh, and if you're a fan of blockbuster movies, there are some Easter Eggs in this episode for you. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

First of all, you read that right. We have a conversation with the guy who visited every OHL rink and decided to rank the hot dogs. This episode contains your definitive answer, while also providing some raw insight into the impact an OHL career has on a hockey family. On a more serious note, maybe the emotional story you'll hear in this episode is something the OHL will want to lean into when it comes to recruiting and retaining talent because that's certainly not getting any easier. Farwell and Dan discuss the latest players who are taking the leap to the NCAA and what it means for OHL clubs. Plus, is there any end to the nightmare in Niagara? We know the way out, but the league needs the courage to show someone the door. There's also a championship rematch underway and the OHL Podcast inbox is jam-packed with thoughts from you, which we'll address this week. Keep those emails coming to ohlpodcast@rogers.com and don't forget to buy a 50/50 ticket for cystic fibrosis! The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It sounds like the NCAA is getting serious about hockey programs, which means the battle to recruit and retain the best players has some increased competition. Still, Farwell and Dan think the CHL maintains a decided advantage -- for now. Complacency could change that in a hurry, though, and speaking of change, what are the chances the CHL model changes to one where players are being paid? The ice continues to shift beneath the skates of the game we love so dearly. After going a perfect 2-for-2 in the Conference Finals, Farwell and Dan analyze the rematch for the J. Ross Robertson Trophy and try to answer the question on everyone's mind. Can anybody beat London? Plus, the Fronts collect some front office hardware and, for the second straight week, Farwell and Dan give a stick tap to the same Performer of the Week. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Strange days in Brantford where new ownership makes a bold move and one that risks the goodwill that's been built with the city since the Bulldogs' return. Farwell and Dan dive into Matt Turek's departure and why it's raising some red flags. Plus, the OHL now stands alone when it comes to the playoff format and the league would do well to follow the lead of the WHL and QMJHL. And who's ready for an extra overager? Teams might be able to start adding one, in certain circumstances. On the ice, after a couple of Game 7's to close out Round 2, London and Oshawa appear to be headed back to the championship for a rematch of their one-sided meeting a year ago. But don't write the obituaries for Kitchener and Barrie just yet. Don't forget to answer the roll call from your market and let us know what you think by sending an email to ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We can continue the debate about whether this was the best OHL second round in a decade, but we can do it after we enjoy two Game 7's. That's right, half of the OHL's second round series' are going the distance and, in the case of Windsor-Kitchener, one team is trying to come back from 0-3 down. It's going to be a great day for the league and its fans. London, which still hasn't dropped a game in these playoffs, awaits the West winner while the Oshawa Generals will watch Barrie and Kingston to see where they play next (Oshawa, the 4-seed, will start the East Final on the road). Speaking of Oshawa, the Gens came into this season on a mission. After being swept out of last year's OHL Final by London, the Gens' plan was to finish what they started in 2024. Are they on a collision course with the Knights again? Jack Moore, the voice of the Oshawa Generals, joins us to break down the season and the playoffs so far. He'll also tell Farwell how he got it so wrong after Farwell picked Oshawa to lose in both the first AND second rounds this year. We've got more news from around the league, too, as there's talk of increasing the number of Imports, an Eastern Conference team gets a 15-year extension on its arena lease (but that arena needs some TLC), and OHL fans got robbed of one of the league's most dynamic players to end the playoffs (and, as a result, Brantford's season may have ended prematurely). Plus, when in Windsor, while there are many places to find a great pizza, only one place serves the best. I dare you to argue with me (ohlpodcast@rogers.com). The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the OHL's second round of the playoffs gets underway, there's a lot going on behind-the-scenes, including some league "housekeeping" as it prepares for what appears to be an all-out recruiting war to come. Meantime, the league shows what's possible with its coverage of the draft, some construction in Cornwall has Farwell calling (again) for the return of the Royals, and the NHL sends signals that it wants to support amateur hockey ... especially if it's in the United States. As for the second round, Barrie and Windsor offer a mild surprise, while home ice advantage appears to be just that (an advantage). Plus, OHL'ers strut their stuff in the pros, more players sign their entry-level contracts, and our Performers of the Week have been picked. Who was yours? Drop a name in the comments or send us an email to ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two wrongs don't make a right in Niagara and the league's decision to punish the IceDogs by making them sit players during a playoff game is an insult to paying customers. In order to restore its own integrity and save an excellent junior market, the OHL has only one option now in Niagara. And there's no time to waste. This might be the perfect time to deal with it because all eyes will be on a second round of the playoffs that offers four entertaining match-ups. The annual Coaches Poll is also out and the guys have made their picks for Performer of the Week. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's the most wonderful time of the OHL year -- the playoffs! Farwell and Dan break down the early returns with an emphasis on Erie. Or is that Saginaw? Either way, that series is surprising. Plus, the Petes will pick first in the draft for the first time in franchise history, which will only add to an already deep roster of first rounders from the past two drafts. But the guys have some ideas for improvement when it comes to the OHL draft, including taking a lead from the WHL. And with the playoffs underway and the games meaning more than ever, it's time to put officiating under the microscope. Share your thoughts anytime at ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We can't let the last episode of the regular season go by without sticking our necks out. Like, way out. So, along with the playoff predictions you'd expect as the post-season begins, the guys are also handing out the hardware for OHL Coach of the Year and the league's Most Outstanding Player. Plus, there's the small matter of the NHL's new CBA and how that will impact the CHL. While the OHL's expansion plans appear to be on the backburner until 2026, another league decided to not wait for the NHL's guidance and has already added a team (with another on the horizon). And as we end the regular season, we've got one more league-wide Wraparound and one final pair of Prospects of the Week. Don't forget, we'll be right there with you through the playoffs! Like what we're doing? Hate it?? Send feedback or reach out with partnership opportunities anytime at ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The OHL has launched another third-party investigation into the culture around the Niagara IceDogs and that's leading to questions. Lots of questions. The big one is whether current owner Darren DeDobbelaer should be forced to sell. Whatever the outcome of the investigation, the league is left in a tight spot. Meantime, in Oshawa, the Gens show how serious they are about winning this year as they bring in a new coach with a championship pedigree. But it's more than the late-season nature of the coaching addition that's caught the attention of Farwell and Dan. Plus, the guys have your Wraparound, they discuss the importance of the in-arena experience, and they make the case for the creation of a "True Rookie" class in the OHL. Got some feedback? Want to tell us what you think about the in-arena experiences that you've had? Where was the best one? Drop us an email anytime at ohlpodcast@rogers.com. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.