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The Peterborough Petes selected three European forwards in Wednesday’s 2025 CHL Import Draft, aiming to bolster their offensive depth heading into the 2025–26 OHL season.
With their first pick, 63rd overall, the Petes selected Austrian forward Leon Kolarik from Red Bull Hockey Akademie Juniors. Kolarik, a 2007-born talent, impressed with 23 points in 36 AlpsHL games and led EC Salzburg U20 in playoff scoring.
“We’re very excited about the players we were able to select,” said Petes General Manager Michael Oke. “All three displayed the abilities needed to succeed in the OHL and the characteristics that we look for in a Peterborough Pete.”
At 109th overall, the team chose Yanis Lutz, a 2008-born forward from Switzerland’s EV Zug U20. Lutz notched 22 points in 34 games and represented Switzerland at the U17 level.
With their final pick, 121st overall, the Petes selected Melvin Fernström from Sweden’s Örebro HK. The 2006-born forward is a Pittsburgh Penguins prospect, recently signed to an NHL entry-level contract after a 17-point season in the SHL.
“Leon is a talented, quick young player with a good hockey IQ,” said Assistant Coach Patrick O’Connor. “Yanis is explosive and offensive-minded, while Melvin brings pro experience and a great shot. We’re thrilled with the outcome of the draft.”
