Several Mississauga Steelheads have high hopes for the 2024 NHL draft

The Mississauga Steelheads have a promising roster of players expected to be picked in the 2024 NHL draft, including standout goalie Ryerson Leenders and forward Luke Misa. Leenders has been named the league's goalie of the week twice and has led the team to a strong start to the season, while Misa is second in scoring. Other players on the team are also eligible for the draft.

The Mississauga Steelheads are gearing up for a monumental year, with the spotlight shining on several players who are expected to be selected in the highly anticipated 2024 NHL draft. Among these standout players, two have already made a significant impact on Mississauga's early success in the Ontario Hockey League season.

Ryerson Leenders, the team's exceptional goaltender, has been named the league's goalie of the week for two consecutive weeks. He has been instrumental in leading Mississauga to an impressive 4-1 record, topping all goalies in crucial statistical categories such as goals against average (1.00), save percentage (.967), shutouts (2), and wins (tied with 4).

Luke Misa, a third-year forward, has also been a key contributor to the team's success, ranking second in scoring with six points (three goals and three assists) in just five games.

However, it's not just Leenders and Misa who are turning heads. The Mississauga Steelheads boast a talented roster of players who are also eligible for the upcoming NHL draft. Defencemen Jakub Fibigr and Parker Von Richter, as well as forward Jack Van Volsen, are among the promising prospects catching the attention of scouts.

The camaraderie among these draft-eligible teammates is palpable. Leenders expressed his delight in having teammates who share the same goal of being drafted, emphasizing that every player deserves the opportunity. He believes that their collective focus should be on having a remarkable season and letting fate decide their future.

Misa echoed Leenders' sentiments, emphasizing the importance of pushing each other to reach new heights. The team's enthusiasm for the upcoming year is evident, and their determination is unwavering.

Leenders, who played a significant role as a rookie last season, showcased his exceptional skills by appearing in 35 games, a remarkable feat for a 16-year-old goalie in OHL history. Moreover, he had the privilege of representing Canada and winning a gold medal at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup under-18 tournament during the summer. Leenders dedicated his offseason to improving his physicality, focusing on gaining size and strength. He feels confident in his progress and eagerly anticipates the upcoming season.

Misa, the first-round pick in the 2021 OHL draft, embraced a larger role within the team last year. Following key trades before the trade deadline, Misa took center stage as a crucial member of the Steelheads, anchoring one of the club's top lines. While the team fell short in the first round of the playoffs, Misa believes that the experience provided valuable lessons and momentum for the future. He is optimistic about the team's chances in this year's playoffs, armed with the knowledge gained from their previous campaign.

The Mississauga Steelheads are poised for a remarkable season, driven by the exceptional performances of players like Leenders and Misa. Their draft-eligible teammates add depth and promise to the roster, creating an environment of healthy competition and shared aspirations. With a determined mindset and the lessons learned from past experiences, the Steelheads are ready to make their mark in the league and pursue their ultimate goal of success in the NHL.

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