Senators fans, it's time to turn your attention to the OHL Final. The Kitchener Rangers are up 2-0 in the series against the Barrie Colts, and with Game 3 set for Sunday, three Ottawa prospects are stealing the spotlight. For anyone tracking the future of the franchise, this series is a must-watch.
On the Rangers' side, forward Luke Ellinas (selected 104th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft) and defenseman Matthew Andonovski (140th overall in 2023) are making their presence felt. Meanwhile, the Colts counter with defenseman Gabriel Elliason, a 39th overall pick from 2024. These three young guns are logging crucial minutes, and their performances are giving fans a glimpse of what's to come.
Andonovski, 21, has been a story of resilience. After battling injuries in AHL Belleville, he was reassigned to junior in January to regain his footing. Since then, he's found a new offensive gear, tallying 14 points in 24 regular-season games and adding 7 more in 16 playoff contests. His overtime game-winner in Game 2—a 4-3 thriller—was a breakout moment that has Rangers fans buzzing.
Ellinas, a 20-year-old forward in his third season with Kitchener, has a knack for elevating his game when the stakes are highest. But his path this season has been anything but smooth. After offseason shoulder surgery in 2025, he returned for just six games before re-injuring the same shoulder, sidelining him for the rest of the regular season. He only rejoined the lineup for the Conference Final clincher and has already notched 3 points in 3 playoff games. "It was definitely a lot of fun," Ellinas told the OHL's Facebook page. "I wanted to get back all year. To be able to do that in such big games is special."
For the Senators, Ellinas's return is a cautious relief. He signed his entry-level contract last summer and plays with an edge that makes him effective—but also vulnerable. Ottawa will be holding its breath, hoping he can finish this playoff run healthy. It's a story that echoes Josh Norris's own journey, and if Ellinas can stay on the ice, his grit and skill could be a major asset down the line.
As the series shifts to Barrie, all eyes will be on these three prospects. Whether you're dreaming of future Senators jerseys or just love high-stakes junior hockey, this OHL Final is delivering the drama.