-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Porter Martone is reportedly leaving the OHL to join Michigan State University [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/players/another-one-bites-the-dust-porter-martone-expected-to-leave-the-ohl-for-michigan-state-university] in the NCAA, but the Niagara IceDogs won't be losing one of their top six forwards, after he signed his entry-level contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning] on Wednesday morning. Ethan Czata, 18, was selected in the second round (56th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Lightning. Tampa Bay has announced that they have signed [https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/tampa-bay-lightning-sign-forward-ethan-czata-to-a-three-year-entry-level-contract] the 6-foot-2 center to a three-year, entry-level contract. Czata recorded 55 points (21 goals, 34 assists) while playing all 68 games in the regular season for Niagara during the 2024-25 season. He improved his point production from his rookie season (17) by 38. In Niagara's first-round playoff exit to the Barrie Colts, Czata recorded two assists in five games. Lightning Add Two-Way Forward Ethan Czata in Second Round of NHL Draft [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/b7584416-a137-4a0d-8b3d-1f83bca7343f.webp] Lightning Add Two-Way Forward Ethan Czata in Second Round of NHL Draft The Tampa Bay Lightning selected two-way forward Ethan Czata from the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) as the 56th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-add-two-way-center-ethan-czata-in-second-round-of-nhl-draft] The Brampton, Ontario native represented Canada at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men's World Championship, winning gold, while recording five points (1 goal, 4 assists) in seven games. He played an important depth role for his nation, showcasing his NHL potential of becoming a reliable bottom-six forward. Czata is a bruising player to play against at times and factors in on his team's special team units. He also some underrated puck skills and 1-on-1 playmaking skills, which shouldn't be a surprise considering he was the fifth overall pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. By signing his entry-level contract, Czata makes himself ineligible to play in the NCAA. So even if he has a great season this year, and schools start eyeing to recruit him for the 2026-27 season, they will have to look the other way. (Top photo credit: OHL Images) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Make sure you bookmark THN's OHL site [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl] for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, be sure to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. Latest OHL News: Niagara IceDogs Import Player Roster Finalized; Sign Third Pick From The 2025 CHL Import Draft [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/7aad989c-7afa-4b98-ac6d-8c0c8b4fad6c.webp] Niagara IceDogs Import Player Roster Finalized; Sign Third Pick From The 2025 CHL Import Draft Niagara IceDogs GM <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/icedogs-name-frank-evola-general-manager">Frank Evola</a> has successfully recruited all three of his 2025 CHL Import draft picks. Niagara’s new GM has wasted zero time making a strong impression and is looking to improve on the team’s 29-31-8 record from last season. [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/niagara-icedogs-import-player-roster-finalized-sign-third-pick-from-the-2025-chl-import-draft] Niagara IceDogs Sign 2025 CHL Import Draft Selections Vladislav Yermolenko & Ben Reisnecker [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/feaffd3b-7391-468b-a14c-711bbec7d933.webp] Niagara IceDogs Sign 2025 CHL Import Draft Selections Vladislav Yermolenko & Ben Reisnecker The middle of July is undoubtedly the prime time for OHL teams to secure their import players through the CHL Import Draft. We've witnessed a significant surge in import signings over the past week, and the <a href="https://chl.ca/ohl-icedogs/">Niagara IceDogs</a> have put pen to paper with two of their 2025 import draft picks. [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/niagara-icedogs-sign-2025-chl-import-draft-selections-vladislav-yermolenko-ben-reisnecker] Niagara IceDogs Sign Exciting & Talented Top-10 Pick Ryerson Edgar [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/61596955-dd98-4fb8-8ba6-1d6b1d95010e.webp] Niagara IceDogs Sign Exciting & Talented Top-10 Pick Ryerson Edgar The <a href="https://chl.ca/ohl-icedogs/">Niagara IceDogs</a> are loaded with high-end talent at the forward position, and they just announced another significant commitment to their lineup for the 2025-26 season. [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/niagara-icedogs-sign-exciting-talented-top-10-pick-ryerson-edgar]
