TORONTO — Hockey Canada and the NHL have officially announced that Michael Misa, a standout forward for the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), has been named the 2024–25 recipient of the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence — a prestigious honour given to the draft-eligible player who best exemplifies a commitment to excellence through strength of character, competitiveness, and athleticism.
The 17-year-old phenom from Oakville, Ontario made history when he was granted exceptional status to enter the OHL as a 15-year-old — only the seventh player ever to receive such a distinction, joining names like Connor McDavid, John Tavares, and Shane Wright.
Michael Misa (@SpiritHockey) is this year’s winner of the #NHL‘s E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence, recognizing the #NHLDraft who best exemplifies commitment to excellence through strength of character, competitiveness and athleticism.
READ 🗞️: https://t.co/bZ51Yht8lY pic.twitter.com/Nnebtq1YXs
— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) June 10, 2025
This season, Misa notched 75 points in 67 games (29 goals, 46 assists), becoming a cornerstone for the Spirit while also playing a key role in Team Canada’s gold medal run at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. His mature two-way play, leadership, and professionalism have earned admiration league-wide.
The E.J. McGuire Award, named after the late NHL executive and scouting director, honours players who not only excel on the ice but also embody the values of integrity and drive that defined McGuire’s legacy.
With the 2025 NHL Draft fast approaching, Misa is projected to be a top-three pick — and the award adds yet another accolade to an already stellar résumé.
For fans across the GTA, Misa’s rise is a source of pride and inspiration. As he prepares to take the next step in his career, one thing is clear: Michael Misa is destined for NHL greatness.
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