With less than two weeks remaining in the regular season teams are still battling until the final whistle. Here is the fifth edition of the OMHA U16 and U18 AAA Rankings and Players to Watch presented by Hudl.
U16 AAA Rankings
Players to Watch
Jacob Greene (Niagara North Stars): The current points leader for a surging Niagara North Stars group. Greene is a highly-gifted player that provides energy on both sides of the puck with his speed and tenacity. Playing a major part creating offence for the North Stars, Greene sits third in the OMHA West scoring race with an impressive 44 points (14 goals, 30 assists) in 26 games. He is the younger sibling of David (a U16 OHL Cup champion with the Oakville Rangers in 2024).
Hannu Packalen (Peterborough Minor Petes): Has been an important piece to the Peterborough Petes U16 team this season. The centre has been one of the most dynamic forwards in the OMHA this season. Packalen has an OHL-calibre shot that is accurate and precise, using it to terrorize goaltenders and is always looking to generate high-quality opportunities for himself and his teammates.
The Petes forward also plays with an edge, using his long reach to pick off passes, as well as using his smooth hands to create in the offensive zone. Packalen attended the Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects game earlier this month.
U18 AAA Rankings
Players to Watch
Brayden Blyth (Barrie Jr. Colts): One of the most prolific offensive players in all of U18 this season, Barrie Jr. Colts U18 forward Brayden Blyth has been lighting up the scoresheet.
A draft pick of the Ottawa 67’s, Blyth is a complete winger that plays in all situations for the Colts. An elite offensive player, with the ability to both create for himself but also make his teammates around him better.
Christian DeGuzman (Credit River Capitals): A player that carries himself as a great leader both on and off the ice, Credit River Capitals forward Christian DeGuzman is the OMHA West U18 AAA player to watch.
The second half of the OMHA’s most dynamic duo (alongside teammate Dylan Di Cio who was featured earlier this season), DeGuzman is a talented offensive forward that drives the play for his team when out there on the ice, both as a scorer and a playmaker.