Kane Cloutier of the Vaughan Kings went #1 in the OHL draft to Oshawa. Photo David Pickering OHL
While many speculated about young standout Kade O’Rourke or the powerful Tanner Adams, who’s been called ‘Lindros 2.0’, Oshawa Generals GM Roger Hunt and his team opted for solid family ties by choosing Vaughan Kings forward Kane Cloutier as the top pick in the OHL junior draft.
Cloutier, whose father is former NHL goaltender Dan Cloutier, had an impressive season with 32 goals and 56 points in just 33 games for the Kings. He also shined at the OHL Cup, netting six goals – including four in one game – along with five assists over four games.
The Generals brought out a hockey legend to announce their first pick during the 2026 OHL Priority Selection draft, with John Tavares and his young son Jace making the announcement from Kingston’s Slush Puppy Place. Tavares himself was selected #1 back in 2005 when Oshawa last held that position.
Cloutier, a strong skater described by one scout as possibly “the most technically complete player in this entire class”, has a winning background as he helped his team secure a GTHL Championship this season.
“We are excited to have a player of Kane’s talents joining our organization,” Hunt expressed, noting it was “quite a torch-handing-off moment” having Tavares make the selection.
“We know the impact John had and continues to have in Oshawa, and Kane can be as influential a figure here on and off the ice.”
Tanner Adams – the newest member of the Brampton Steelheads
The Brampton Steelheads managed to select Adams – who might consider heading down the NCAA route in a couple years – with their third pick, while Colin Kennedy, a center from Detroit Little Caesars, went second overall to Erie behind Cloutier.
The expectations will be high for Cloutier since Gens Nation is looking for big things from their first overall choice. Hunt believes he possesses both skill and determination that will help him meet or even surpass those expectations.
“Kane brings a high level of talent, speed, work ethic and commitment to the Generals,” he stated. “We’ve seen some strong seasons as a team recently and brought in some great talents over time. Kane will follow suit. He’ll grow both as an athlete and individual while being an exciting player to watch.”
Cloutier understands what it takes to succeed not just in the OHL but also at professional levels because his father spent ten years playing in the NHL.
“Kane comes from hockey bloodlines with his Dad having played both in the OHL and NHL while witnessing firsthand what commitment looks like at those levels,” Hunt noted. “Having someone like that under your roof who can help guide you will be invaluable for Kane as he starts his hockey journey.”
Oshawa should get ready for some exciting times down at Tribute Communities Centre, he added.
“Cloutier gives us something special that’ll get fans out of their seats thanks to his skills.”
“He’ll score goals for us and be an electrifying offensive player. I know Gens Nation is thrilled to see Kane on ice.”
Oshawa fans will catch their first glimpse of Cloutier sporting a Generals jersey next week during orientation camp.
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