Four from the draft door
Two forwards, a defenseman and a goalie from the 2024 Ontario Hockey League priority selections draft have now signed with the Spitfires. Included in the foursome is the big prize from the ’24 lottery.
In succession, first rounder Ethan Belchetz, second rounders J.C. Lemieux and Carter Hicks and goalie Jake Windbiel have all signed OHL packages with the Spitfires, as previously reported by Hockey News Windsor.
Belchetz and Lemieux are both forwards, Hicks is a defenseman and Windbiel is a goalie.
The 6 foot 5 Belchetz (pictured at left) who was the first overall pick of the draft, is expected to make an impact as a rookie in ’24-25. And that is right from the mouth of Windsor general manager Billy Bowler.
“We can foresee the trajectory and development path,” Bowler said of Belchetz, who skated for the Oakville Under 16 Rangers of the Greater Toronto Hockey League in 2023-2024.
Belchetz combines skill, size and character, noted Bowler.
“Ethan is a big body who can play a small game,” Bowler pointed out. “The potential is limitless. Ethan is a physical presence with a great combination of skill and hockey IQ. He is also a character kid with leadership qualities and he will have an immediate impact in our league.
“To see what he can do at his size and the way he moves around on the ice with his skating,” Bowler continued. “The skill set, with the hands, it is something that is uncommon to see in a player of his stature. Like every player, he has to improve … but he can bring it in so many ways. And what a great kid from a great family, that is the icing on the cake.”
