Sam McCue: The Ottawa 67's Winger with Dual Nicknames and a Record of Moves
When Sam McCue was acquired by the Ottawa 67's in a trade with the Brantford Bulldogs on December 4, 2025, the 20-year-old overager joined his fifth Ontario Hockey League team. This move has sparked interest not only for his on-ice performance but also for the intriguing backstory that has earned him two distinctive nicknames: "Michigan Magician" and "Suitcase Sam."
The 'Michigan' Goal That Cemented a Legacy
In a recent game against the Peterborough Petes, McCue executed a spectacular lacrosse-style goal by flattening the puck on his blade and throwing it behind goalie Masen Johnston. This goal, which earned the TSN "Play of the Day" honor, marked a significant milestone. With this move, McCue joined his brother Max McCue as the only brother tandem to record a "Michigan" goal in an OHL game. Max, now with the AHL's Cleveland Monsters, scored his own "Michigan" two years ago while playing for the London Knights in the playoffs.
The assist on Sam McCue's goal came from Frankie Marrelli, whose first cousin, Luca Marrelli, also plays for the Cleveland Monsters. This connection highlights the intertwined relationships within professional hockey, adding depth to McCue's achievement.
Earning the 'Suitcase Sam' Moniker
McCue's journey through the OHL has been marked by frequent team changes, leading to comparisons with NHL veterans known for their nomadic careers. After being drafted by the Petes in the seventh round in 2021, McCue played 67 games with them before being traded to the Owen Sound Attack on January 1, 2024. Following 69 games there, he moved to the Flint Firebirds on January 7, 2025, and then to the Brantford Bulldogs on June 2 of the same year, before finally landing with the Ottawa 67's.
This pattern of moves has drawn parallels to former NHL player Mike Sillinger, who played for a record 12 teams during his 17-year career and was traded nine times. McCue's situation also echoes that of Ottawa-born goalie Gary "Suitcase" Smith, who earned his nickname after playing for seven NHL teams. McCue embraces this aspect of his career, stating, "I look at it as a positive thing. Teams want me for the way I play."
Performance and Impact with the Ottawa 67's
Despite an injury in his first outing with the 67's that sidelined him for over a month, McCue has made a strong impression in his limited time with the team. In eight games for Ottawa, he has recorded seven points, including three goals, and boasts a plus-6 rating. Over his 189 OHL games, his career statistics include 72 goals, 45 assists, and 154 penalty minutes, showcasing his versatility and physical play.
67's assistant coach Norm Milley has praised McCue's contributions, noting, "He's a big body with some skill ... we've seen it. He can make some plays. He's not afraid to go around that dirty area in front of the net. He's a game-break player. He can make those tight plays, and he's been real good for us so far."
Beyond the Nicknames: A Player with Depth
McCue's "Michigan" goal against the Petes was not his first attempt at such a move in a game, indicating his confidence and skill in executing high-difficulty plays. His ability to adapt to new teams quickly and contribute offensively has made him a valuable asset in the OHL.
The connections to other players, such as Luca Pinelli—Cleveland's second-leading scorer who spent four seasons with the 67's—and Owen Sillinger, son of Mike Sillinger, further enrich McCue's story within the hockey community. These ties underscore the collaborative and familial nature of the sport, where legacies and nicknames are passed down through generations and across teams.
As McCue continues his season with the Ottawa 67's, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this "Michigan Magician" and "Suitcase Sam" further distinguishes himself on the ice, blending skill with resilience in a career marked by constant movement and memorable moments.
