MISSISSAUGA – The Ontario Junior Hockey League is front and centre in the Canadian Junior Hockey League’s Top Forward conversation, led by one of its most dynamic offensive talents.
Trenton Golden Hawks forward Taeo Artichuk has been named a finalist for the CJHL’s Top Forward Award for the 2025–26 season, following a dominant year that saw him named as an OJHL League All Star.
Artichuk delivered an elite offensive campaign, recording 108 points (37 goals, 71 assists) in 55 games, finishing as the OJHL’s leading scorer while averaging an impressive 1.96 points per game. His consistency and ability to drive play made him the engine of Trenton’s attack and a matchup problem for opponents all season long.
The Ajax, Ont., native’s impact extended well beyond the scoresheet. He was voted OJHL Most Valuable Player by the league’s 24 teams and earned East Conference Player of the Month honours three times, underlining his sustained excellence throughout the season. His 108-point performance also set a new single-season franchise record for the Golden Hawks.
A former second-round pick (21st overall) of the OHL’s Erie Otters, Artichuk’s junior experience and high-end offensive instincts were on full display, cementing his reputation as one of the CJHL’s premier forwards.
Artichuk is one of six finalists selected by the CJHL’s nine member leagues for Top Forward honours.
Other finalists include:
- Anthony Gaudet (Amherst Ramblers, MHL)
- Gabriel Le Houillier (Rockland Nationals, CCHL)
- Mathieu Comeau (Hearst Lumberjacks, NOJHL)
- Niklas Gudmundson (Winkler Flyers, MJHL)
- Jalen Bianchet (Whitecourt Wolverines, AJHL)
The CJHL’s Top Forward Award recognizes the most outstanding offensive performer across the country’s Junior A leagues, and Artichuk’s nomination not only highlights his individual brilliance, but reinforces the OJHL’s reputation for producing elite offensive talent.
