BRAMPTON – The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Gabriel Chiarot to a three-year entry-level contract, the club announced Monday. The 18-year-old Hamilton native, who spent the past two seasons developing with the Brampton Steelheads, was selected by Vancouver in the sixth round (175th overall) of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
From the Trout Squad to the NHL 🐟➡️🏒
Our very own Gabriel Chiarot has signed a THREE-YEAR entry-level contract with the Vancouver Canucks!!!🚨 Big congrats to Gabe!👏💙Read more at https://t.co/HzBxKOaLLl pic.twitter.com/1qj0fad0HH
— Brampton Steelheads (@OHLSteelheads) September 23, 2025
From Steelheads Prospect to NHL Contract
Chiarot’s journey began in 2023 when the Mississauga Steelheads drafted him in the seventh round (136th overall) of the OHL Priority Selection. Since then, he has established himself as a reliable forward, appearing in 114 career OHL games with 26 goals, 19 assists, and a +20 rating. He also logged nine playoff appearances, adding a goal.
Reflecting on the milestone, Chiarot shared:
“I’m very excited and grateful to have signed an NHL contract with the Vancouver Canucks! Playing for the Steelheads under JR these past couple of seasons has really helped me develop my game and bring out the best in me. I’m excited for this new path with Vancouver and can’t wait to start the season with Brampton!”
Steelheads Development Pipeline
Steelheads Head Coach and General Manager James Richmond praised Chiarot’s dedication and growth:
“We’re very proud and happy for Cherry. He has worked extremely hard and believed in the process here with the Steelheads and has now been rewarded with his first NHL contract. Congrats Cherry! We look forward to watching you on Hockey Night in Canada one day.”
The signing underscores the OHL franchise’s role in preparing young talent for professional opportunities.
First Taste of Canucks Hockey
Earlier this month, Chiarot suited up in Vancouver colours at the 2025 Prospect Showcase in Everett and Seattle, Washington, marking his first opportunity to skate with the organization following the draft.
Looking Ahead
Though signed by Vancouver, Chiarot is set to begin the 2025–26 season in Brampton, where he will continue honing his game while representing the Steelheads. For Brampton fans, his progress is a reminder of the OHL’s vital place in the Canadian hockey development system.
✍️ Follow GTA Weekly Sports for full coverage of Brampton Steelheads players making their mark on the road to the NHL.
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