Windsor Spitfires defenceman Wyatt Kennedy has been nominated for the Ontario Hockey League's Ted Baker Teammate of the Year Award, recognizing his selfless play and leadership. The six-foot-five, 201-pound overage blueliner, acquired from North Bay last season, recorded 26 points in 66 games with a plus-37 rating and was named the best defensive defenceman in the Western Conference in the OHL coaches poll. His nomination highlights his mentorship of younger players and charitable contributions off the ice.
Smith to Coach Canada
Former Spitfires captain and coach D.J. Smith has been appointed an assistant coach for Canada's men's national team at the IIHF World Championship, scheduled for May 15-31 in Switzerland. The 48-year-old was part of the coaching staff for Canada's gold medal win in 2023 and silver medal in 2022. Smith served as interim head coach of the Los Angeles Kings starting March 1, leading the team to an 11-6-6 record and a playoff berth. Kings general manager Ken Holland praised Smith's performance and is considering him for the permanent head coaching role.
Willson on the Move
LaSalle's Luke Willson is transitioning to a new role at TSN, becoming the colour commentator for Friday Night Football during the 2026 Canadian Football League season. The 36-year-old, who played eight seasons in the NFL and won a Super Bowl with the Seahawks in 2014, previously served as a studio analyst for NFL games and a sideline reporter for CFL broadcasts last season.
Edgar to OHL Final
Belle River's Eamon Edgar and the Barrie Colts have advanced to the OHL final after a 5-0 road victory over the Hamilton Bulldogs in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference final. The 16-year-old rookie forward, a second-round pick in the 2025 OHL Draft from the Sun County Panthers program, stands five-foot-ten and weighs 175 pounds. The Colts open the best-of-seven championship series on Wednesday against the Kitchener Rangers.
