Wells, Welch Among Top OHL U18 Draft Prospects
Evan Wells being honoured as game MVP from the Alliance All-Star Game this year
Most notably are a pair of Chatham products who played this season for the Windsor Spitfires Major Midget ‘AAA’ team, Evan Wells and Cameron Welch.
Wells finished 7th in Alliance Hockey scoring with 24 goals and 44 points in 33 games this season. He led the Alliance in scoring at one point, and was named the Alliance Midget ‘AAA’ All-Star Game MVP.
“Evan Wells has been extremely impressive and should be a lock to be a pick in the OHL U18 Draft,” says TheScout.ca Director of Scouting Andrew Sykes. “Likable player who brings speed, skill and energy every shift. Tenacious and plays with great enthusiasm. Confident and fearless.”
Wells also played 8 games for the PJHL’s Blenheim Blades.
Cameron Welch also had a strong season with Windsor, compiling 32 points in 34 games, and is another player Sykes believes would be worthy of a U18 pick.
“(Welch) has the size, speed and smarts that will allow him to make a smooth transition to higher levels,” says Sykes. “Strong and fast skater with a powerful stride. Responsible and does the right things without the puck.”
Welch proved he could play at the Junior B level this season as well, collecting 3 points during an 8 game call up with the Chatham Maroons.
Other eligible players include a duo of local players competing with the Lambton Jr. Sting, Chatham’s Bryar Dittmer, and Wallaceburg’s Nolan DeKoning. DeKoning in particular has an added shot, as one of the league’s top goalies, and with OHL teams receiving an additional pick if they select a goaltender in the draft. Dittmer affiliated with the Strathroy Rockets, while DeKoning was a call up for the Sarnia Legionnaires.