Windsor Spitfire started off the season with five points in their first three games in a surprising turn of events.
The Spitfire were named the 16th best team in the OHL with only the Sarnia Sting, Niagara IceDogs, Peterborough Petes and Owen Sound Attack being behind them. But with a strong start against the Saginaw Spirit and thrashing the Kitchener Rangers 12-2, this team may be a little better than what was thought of them.
One of the biggest surprises is how well rookie Ethan Belchetz is doing so far. Even though he was selected first overall last season, most rookies need some time to transition and fully understand the next level the OHL provides. But the Oakville native has been well adjusted as he has become a points leader next to draft-eligible Michael Misa.
But to paint the whole story all of those goals came from playing against the Kitchener Rangers. He had an explosive night with four goals and two assists. He is great at finishing plays and being able to fight in dirty areas for the puck. If a goalie isn’t able to completely cover the puck he will fight for an opportunity to punish them. He’s aggressive and shows why he was the first overall pick for the OHL. He will be eligible in the 2026 draft and already looks to be someone to keep an eye on.
It’s not only about Belchetz. This is a whole team that can stay cool under pressure and is able to beat stronger opponents. The 12-2 win is impressive, but the win on opening night against the Spirit was a more impressive feat.
Another rookie that has had a strong start is Jean-Christoph Lemieux. Being drafted in the second round, the Gatineau native has also started strong with five points. He still needs some work on his game though. He could still work on taking better chances in actually getting to the puck to make plays. But so far he has adjusted well and is playing on the second or third line most nights. He has played well with Owen Outwater and Noah Morneau who both have helped make the Spitfire a deep team.
But despite a strong offensive team, the team lacks in defensive form. Ten goals were scored in the first two games which put them in overtime both times. Against the Spirit is understandable, but with teams like the Sting is where alarm bells should come out.
The team was beating the Sting 3-0 and Spitfire goalie Carter Froggett wasn’t able to do anything when they started coming back. There were turnovers, no one covering the right guy, and shots that should’ve been stopped but somehow found themselves in the back of the net. While it may not be an issue as Joey Constanzo is the main goalie and has been great against the Rangers and Spirit, it’s still a crack that could be exploited by better teams and more over time as the season continues.
The Spitfire have an impressive rookie class. It will be a fun season for the fans to see these younger players grow into something bigger.