CHL, NCAA Eligibility Impacts -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Erie Otters are the latest OHL team to benefit from the NCAA rule change, which allows CHL players to hold NCAA commitments [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/what-does-the-ncaa-ruling-mean-for-ohl-players] while continuing to play in the CHL. Last week, the Otters made a significant move, signing Boston University commit Callum Hughes to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. The Westwood, Massachusetts native is a Mount St. Charles Academy product. The program has produced notable NHL alumni such as Stanley Cup winner Mathieu Schneider, Brian Lawton (first overall pick in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft), and Bryan Berard (first overall pick in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft). Determined to follow the NCAA path for his development, Hughes attended the USA Hockey NTDP evaluation camp in 2022 but went undrafted in the OHL and wasn't named to the NTDP roster. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound forward was not selected in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft (first year of eligibility), but he caught the eye of NHL Central Scouting. He was ranked 149th amongst North American skaters in their midterm rankings and moved up to 99th in the final rankings. What can Erie fans expect from their new forward? Hughes is a powerful skater who attacks in straight lines, constantly putting pressure on opposing defenders in transition possessing the puck, and on the forecheck. His skating ability is his greatest attribute. It allows him to always be involved in the play on both sides of the puck. “I’m a 200-foot player that is very skilled offensively, but I take pride in the defensive zone first. I won’t leave the zone early. I can really use my speed to my advantage” said Hughes, “I’m pretty fast and I can use my shot as well. I also have a high IQ. I think those are things that separate me from other players.” Callum scored his first goal with the Otters in his first career OHL game. Hughes played in the BCHL last season for the West Kelowna Warriors, teammates with Jack Pridham, who also has made the move to the OH [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/latest-news/chicago-blackhawks-prospect-boston-university-commit-headed-for-kitchener]L from the Warriors. He made the BCHL's all-rookie team last year after putting up 23 goals and 42 points in 54 games. His production in the playoffs stood out as well, with nine points in six games. Before making the move out east, he had recorded nine goals and 14 points in 20 games with West Kelowna. Hughes has shown to be a productive goal-scorer at the Jr. A level and can provide additional scoring in the middle part of the Otters' lineup. It is unlikely that he has the talent to achieve a point-per-game average in the OHL. However, he serves as a valuable complementary linemate who can enhance the performance of players like Dylan Edwards or Gabriel Frasca by taking on the more demanding and defensive aspects of play for his line. Hughes' commitment to playing a speedy, hardworking game will endear him to his new fanbase and coaches. If he wants to hear his name called at the upcoming NHL draft as a re-entry, he needs to show that he can be more than just a complementary role player. Bookmark The Hockey News OHL [https://thehockeynews.com/ohl/] site to never miss news, interviews, and any updates around the league.
