NHL bloodlines run deep in Oshawa’s first overall pick in Ontario Hockey League draft

While insiders speculated about underage phenom Kade O’Rourke or ‘Lindros 2.0’ power forward Tanner Adams, Oshawa Generals GM Roger Hunt and his team went with impeccable bloodlines instead, selecting Vaughan Kings forward Kane Cloutier with the top pick in the OHL junior draft.

Cloutier, the son of former NHL goaltender Dan Cloutier, had 32 goals and 56 points in 33 games for the Kings and sparkled in the OHL Cup, scoring six goals – including four in one game – and adding five assists in four games.

The Generals brought out a legend to make the first pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection draft, with John Tavares and his young son Jace making the announcement from Kingston’s Slush Puppy Place. An underage Tavares went #1 in 2005, the last time Oshawa had the top pick.

Cloutier, a strong skater who one scout said may be the most “technically complete player in this entire class” is no stranger to winning, having helped his team to a GTHL Championship this season.

“We are excited to have a player of Kane’s talents joining our organization,” Hunt said, adding that 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 were able to pick up Adams – who has shown interest in going the NCAA route in a couple years – with the third pick, with Colin Kennedy, a center with Detroit Little Caesars, going second behind Cloutier to Erie.

The ceiling will be high for Cloutier, with GensNation expecting a lot from a first overall pick. Hunt believes he has the skill and drive to meet and even exceed those expectations.

“Kane brings a high level of talent, speed, work ethic and commitment to the Generals,” he said. “We went through some strong seasons as a team and harvested some great talents in recent years. Kane will be a player much the same. He will grow as a player and person while being an exciting player to watch.”

Cloutier is well aware of what it takes to make it not only in the OHL but in the professional ranks, with his father spending a decade in the NHL.

“Kane comes from hockey bloodlines with his Dad, playing in both the OHL and NHL and seeing the commitment it takes to play at those levels,” Hunt noted. “Having someone under the same roof as you to be able to help you and guide you in your dad will be a great asset for Kane as he sets out on his hockey journey.”

Oshawa should be ready for some fun times down at the Tribute Communities Centre, he added.

“Cloutier brings us the ability to bring fans out of their seats with his skill.”

“He will score goals for us and be a dynamic offensive player. I know GensNation will be excited to see Kane on the ice.”

Oshawa fans will get their first look at Cloutier in a Generals uniform next week at orientation camp.