OHL Erie Otters

Top U18 Pick Brett Hammond Commits to Erie Otters

Published on June 19, 2023 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Erie Otters News Release


Erie, Pennsylvania - The 2022-23 Canadian Hockey League season came to a close this month, as all eyes turn toward the new year of hockey starting in the Fall. As the Erie Otters look ahead to a season of expectation, they've added to their talented young core today with official commitment of top 2023 Ontario Hockey League Under-18 Priority Selection Draft pick Brett Hammond.

General Manager Dave Brown announced the signing on Monday as the first-overall pick became the third member of the Otters Draft Class to commit, and first from the Under-18 Priority Selection Draft class.

"Brett was someone who our staff watched closely throughout the season, and we are excited to continue to watch his growth within the Otters organization. Otters' fans can expect Brett to play an exciting style; he plays a simple straight-line game and uses his physical attributes to remind us of previous power forwards." said Brown, "We are thrilled to have Brett officially a member of the Otters organization."

The first first-overall U18 pick in Otters' history, Hammond shared his excitement of being taken by the organization on draft day.

"Obviously [I was] kind of shocked and excited at the same time. I never really knew what to expect from the Draft, so getting picked first-overall was huge for me. I'm very thankful to the Erie Otters for that." said Hammond, "It was an easy decision for me, for sure."

The 6'2", 175 lbs. Ottawa, ON native spent the 2022-23 season as part of Nepean Raiders U18 AAA program, and put together a solid offensive season. In 37 games played with the Raiders, the forward accumulated 55 points (29G+26A), including 11 power play goals. Hammond also had a call-up stint with Nepean's junior team in the Central Canada Hockey League.

"It means a lot to be given the chance to play hockey at such a high level, especially with the Erie Otters." said Hammond, "Now I'm really just anticipating the season while I develop over the summer."

Self-described as a north-south, power forward, goal-scoring type player, Hammond represents the play style that has seen the most development and growth under head coach Stan Butler, and will fit in alongside veterans like Sam Alfano and Kaleb Smith, while getting initiated alongside fellow draft class members such as Wesley Royston.

The Erie Otters are thrilled to welcome Brett Hammond home to the Flagship City, and see what the two-way forward can bring in the Fall.

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Ontario Hockey League Stories from June 19, 2023


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