Ottawa 67's Defenceman David Bedkowski Handed Two-Game Suspension
The Ontario Hockey League has issued a significant disciplinary action against Ottawa 67's defenceman David Bedkowski, suspending him for two games. This penalty stems from a spearing incident involving Barrie Colts captain Kashawn Aitcheson during the second period of the opening game in their second-round playoff series on Thursday.
Impact on Crucial Playoff Matchups
As a result of this suspension, the Ottawa 67's will be without one of their top blue liners for more than just Saturday night's critical showdown in Barrie. Bedkowski, a key player acquired in a trade with the Owen Sound Attack earlier this year, will also miss Game 3 on Tuesday night at Ottawa's TD Place. This loss is particularly impactful given the 67's 4-2 defeat in the series opener, putting additional pressure on the team's defensive lineup.
Bedkowski's Season Performance and Penalty Record
David Bedkowski, a 19-year-old Buffalo Sabres third-round draft pick, has made a notable contribution to the Ottawa 67's since his arrival. In 30 games with the team, he recorded three goals, nine assists, and accumulated 60 penalty minutes. Prior to the trade, during his 38 games with the Owen Sound Attack, he added two goals, 15 assists, and 58 penalty minutes. Combined, his penalty minutes total places him as the second-highest penalized player in the OHL, trailing only Gabriel Eliasson of the Barrie Colts.
Replacement and Team Adjustments
With Bedkowski sidelined, the 67's will turn to Jack Johnson, a 6-foot-3, 192-pound defenceman who is set to make his OHL playoff debut. Johnson, selected by Ottawa in the second round of the 2025 draft and just 10 days away from his 17th birthday, posted two assists and an even plus-minus rating in 10 regular-season games. He is expected to see limited ice time against a formidable Barrie Colts squad that features three NHL first-round picks.
Barrie Colts' Offensive Strength
The Barrie Colts demonstrated their offensive prowess in Game 1, led by key players such as Kashawn Aitcheson, a New York Islanders prospect who notched a goal and two assists. Emil Hemming, a Dallas Stars prospect, matched this performance with a goal and two assists as well. Additionally, Cole Beaudoin, recently named the OHL's Most Sportsmanlike Player, contributed three assists to the victory.
The OHL's Department of Player Safety announced this suspension decision on Saturday morning, just hours before Game 2 commenced at Sadlon Arena. This disciplinary action underscores the league's commitment to maintaining safety and sportsmanship during the high-stakes playoff season.
