The North Bay Battalion welcomed their top four draft picks for a visit, marking their first post-draft interaction. This year's Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Priority Selection occurred late, preventing on-ice training; instead, the players and their families toured the arena and city. General Manager Jon Winstanley discussed how their strategy adapts with many veterans returning, while President Adam Dennis expressed awareness of the competitive NCAA landscape in recruiting young talent. First-round pick Owen Loftus, a goaltender, made history as the franchise's first goalie selected in the draft's first round.

By the Numbers
  • Owen Loftus was the first-ever goaltender selected by the Battalion in round one.
  • The OHL draft for 2026 occurred later than usual, limiting on-ice development opportunities.
State of Play
  • The Battalion have scheduled on-ice workouts for draft picks to begin in August.
  • Winstanley and Dennis are strategically navigating the evolving talent landscape and recruitment challenges.
What's Next

The Battalion will focus on integrating their draft picks into the team as they look ahead to the upcoming season, aiming for a productive August training camp. The team's efforts are directed towards fostering young talent while managing dynamics with experienced players.

Bottom Line

The North Bay Battalion's engagement with their top draft picks signifies their commitment to building a sustainable and competitive team, with a mindful approach to balancing youthful potential against veteran experience. Success hinges on the interplay between emerging talent like Loftus and seasoned players in the organization.