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OHL Returns to In-Person Priority Selection as New Draft Structure Alters Prospect Strategy

The mid-June date, Futures Camp and short trade window change how teams weigh NCAA eligibility and NIL when choosing players.

Brayden Bennett was the Sudbury Wolves' first-round draft pick in 2025.
Sudbury Wolves prospect Fischer Ishwaran in action with the Toronto Junior Canadiens in 2045-25.
Timmins’ Tanner Adams is expected to be a high pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.
Twin brothers Liam (left) and Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers could potential options for the Ottawa Senators in the first round of the NHL draft.

Overview

  • The OHL staged its Priority Selection in Kingston in mid‑June, with clubs using the new in‑person format to finalize under‑18 picks and publicize selections.
  • Sudbury used 15 draft picks in the event, taking defenceman Fischer Ishwaran fifth overall, goaltender Cameron Hallett 25th overall and winger Colton Sinclair 43rd overall.
  • The league delayed the draft to mid‑June, ran a June 2–11 trade window and held an OHL Futures Camp to give teams more time to evaluate prospects before picks were made.
  • Teams are preparing development camps to integrate draftees, with Sudbury scheduling its camp at McClelland Arena for June 20–21 and saying every prospect will have a chance to earn a roster spot.
  • A 2024 NCAA ruling that restored college eligibility for CHL players has driven more U.S. entrants and created retention risk, so GMs are balancing upside with the likelihood a player will choose NCAA offers or pursue NIL opportunities.