Finnish forward Natan Teshome and Czech defender David Holub will join the OHL next season as import players.

With 42 days remaining before the start of the 2024-25 OHL season, lineups continue to take shape. Earlier today, two more teams announced the signing of their 2024 CHL Import Draft picks. The North Bay Battalion signed Finnish forward Natan Teshome while the Soo Greyhound signed Cech defender David Holub. 

North Bay selected Teshome with the 48th overall pick in the 2024 CHL Import Draft. The 2006-born forward recorded four goals and added 10 assists in 37 games for Jokerit U-20 last season. 

"We're very happy to welcome Natan to the Battalion family," said GM John Winstanley. "He brings a lot of experience and a style of play that we feel will really complement the group we have returning."

The young Finnish forward has a lot of international experience. Over the course of three seasons, Teshome has played in 45 International Jr games for Finland and scored seven goals and seven assists in the process.

Teshome joins a North Bay team that finished first in the Central Division and second in the Eastern Conference. With last year's top scorers, Anthony Romani, Dalyn Wakely and Owen Van Steensel all eligible to return, the team seems likely to be strong once again next season. 

That said, Van Steensel and Wakely are both overage players. Depending on roster decisions, they may not be returning. 

The Soo Greyhound selected David Holub 54th overall in the first round of the 2024 CHL Import Draft.

"After an impressive season and earning a silver medal at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, we believe David's addition will greatly enhance our defensive core," said Greyhounds GM Kyle Raftis. "We are excited to integrate David into our team during the upcoming training camp."

Holub captained HC Ocelari Trinec U-17 last season. In 28 games, he recorded five goals and scored a total of 28 points. He beat the point-per-game benchmark in the playoffs scoring two goals and seven assists in eight games. 

Though Holub did not record a point at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, he did help Czechia win a silver medal.

At 5-foot-11, Holub plays a physical and intense brand of hockey. His style of play will be a valuable addition to the Greyhounds' backend according to Raftis. 

"I'm so happy to be signing with the Soo Greyhounds," said Holub. "It's a great organization and I can't wait to see the fans and the whole club ... See you soon Soo," said Holub. 

By signing these import players, both the Battalion and the Greyhounds have made meaningful additions to their rosters for the 2024-25 season.