The Peterborough Petes are looking to turn the page on last season with a refreshed roster and renewed focus.
After a challenging year that saw the team miss the playoffs, the organization has approached the off-season with energy and purpose. Fans can expect a mix of fresh faces from a strong draft class, key veteran additions, and returning players ready to take the next step in their development.
General Manager and VP of Operations Mike Oke says the team went into the off-season determined to make changes and believes the club is moving in the right direction.
The Petes had what Oke calls their best draft in years and added key veterans to complement the younger core. He says a larger-than-usual training camp brought fierce competition for roster spots.
Among the players Oke is excited about is first overall pick Kaden McGregor, whose energy and competitiveness he believes will make an immediate impact on the ice and in the room.
Another boost comes from 2024 CHL Import Draft pick Adam Novotny, who joins the Petes after a year of development overseas. Oke says the club worked hard to bring him to Peterborough and believes his addition will pay off for the team and his own future ambitions.
Oke adds that growth from returning players is crucial, noting that success will require contributions from every age group, just as it did during the team’s 2023 OHL Championship run.
And as always, the fans are part of the story. Oke says the organization is grateful for the support shown through both good and tough seasons, and they’re looking forward to rewarding that loyalty with more wins.
With new faces, rising talent, and a hungry veteran core, the Petes are ready to show they’ve taken a step forward, and it all starts tonight.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
