Monday May 27th was the date that Hockey Canada set for the first day that player cardfs would be available for teams in the Ontario Hockey Association.
The OJHL’s Wellington Dukes wasted no time in grabbing GOJHL Cambridge Winter Hawks goalie Lucas Machalski, defenseman Andrew Coupland and forward Cody Gratton. The trio represent three of the top players that were available to move up from the GOJHL a highly regarded Junior B development league.
The 1994 birth year, 6’1″ Machalski was the top goalie in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, leading in wins (27), shutouts (8), goals against average (2.23) and save percentage (.932).
1994 birth year 5’11” 180 lbd Coupland was the defensive glue for the Winter Hawks and was named Midwestern Conference defenseman of the month three times this past season. A defenseman that plays big in big situations.
The 5’8″ 1994 birth year Gratton led the Winter Hawks during the regular season with 58 points, 31 goals, 27 assists, and continued to lead his team in the playoffs, with 35 points 16 goals, 19 assists. An undersized forward with goal scoring and play making ability, Gratton is seen as a player with upside yet to be seen.
Make no mistake, these players needed the time to develop in Junior B. They did, as many 1995 birth date players will in the 2013-2014 season. There is a path, and for those considering the a future in Candian Junior Hockey, the GOJHL to OJHL is a path many have, and will continue to use.
