Photo Credits: Charles Warburton
The Brampton Steelheads (formerly known as Mississauga Steelheads) had five players from their team drafted in this year’s 2024 NHL entry draft. It was the first time since 2016 that five or more Steelheads players were drafted.
The Calgary Flames made a stellar choice by picking forward Luke Misa in the fifth round, 150th overall. Misa’s exceptional performance this season, with a career-high of 26 goals, 55 assists, and 81 points in 66 games, solidified his position as one of the Steelheads’ standout players, sharing the spotlight with Porter Martone.
The Minnesota Wild’s selection of defenceman Stevie Leskovar, 174th overall in the sixth round, was a testament to his crucial role on the Steelheads’ defence. Leskovar, known for his defensive prowess and willingness to put his body on the line, played a significant part in the team’s success this season. In 61 games this season, he had 12 points.
The next three Steelheads were all drafted in the seventh round. Defenceman Jakub Fibigr was taken 202nd overall by the Seattle Kraken. In his first season in the OHL, Fibigr had a successful season, scoring 43 points in 61 games, seven goals, and 36 assists, which put him third on the team in that category.
Ryerson Leenders would be selected next by the Buffalo Sabres 219th overall. Leenders was the backbone for the Steelheads in net this season. Leenders led the OHL in save percentage (.909) and had a .312 GAA, which was good for seventh place in the OHL.
Finn Harding was the final Steelhead to be drafted. The Pittsburgh Penguins selected him 223rd overall. Harding had a successful 2024 season, setting a single-season record in plus-minus with a +39 rating.
