A bumper crop of locals attending OHL camps

'We thank the OHL and all of Ontario's Junior programs for giving opportunity to these players, as it is well deserved."

Former North Bay U16 Trappers forward Masen Wray in action for the IceDogs. Tom Martineau/BayToday

There’s a bumper crop of North Bay Area players and former North Bay AAA Trappers attending or have already attended major junior training camps.

With the graduation of Chicago Blackhawks prospect Ben Gaudreau and Dallas Stars prospect Connor Punnett, the North Bay area is looking for a few new local stars on the major junior scene in 2024-25.

The number of players attending major junior camps is impressive.

Mark Lockhart, North Bay & District Trappers AAA Association President, believes it is a great sign of things to come on the North Bay hockey development scene.

"We are dedicated to supporting Junior programs in the local area and across Ontario by growing our association from the younger ages up with the help of all associations in the North Bay & District," Lockhart stated.

"Not only do we take pride in the players accomplishment, but can be assured that each will develop into respectful, goal oriented young people who will contribute positively to our communities moving forward. We thank the OHL and all of Ontario's Junior programs for giving opportunity to these players, as it is well deserved."

Masen Wray with the Niagara IceDogs and Briir Long with the Brantford Bulldogs, are the two local players signed.

Goaltenders Mike McIvor and Kaleb Papineau are former Trappers who moved to North Bay to play AAA and are signed with their respective teams as well.

Marshall McCharles, was a draft pick of the Sudbury Wolves in 2022, the power forward playing in the OJHL with the King City Rebellion is opting to go the NCAA route.

Major Junior camp invites and draft picks: