The Ontario Minor Hockey Association has released the third edition of the U16 and U18 AAA Top 5 Rankings presented by Hudl for the 2023-2024 regular season. These rankings will be released on a bi-weekly schedule.

It's still anyone's battle as the top teams remain close in the standings and in the rankings.

Colin Fitzgerald (Peterborough Minor Petes): A hard working player that uses his size and strength to his advantage. When the puck is on his stick, it is hard to take it off him as he shields it well and excels playing in traffic. Fitzgerald can find the puck often as he has high offensive awareness and smart positioning. Defenders will need to close down space very quickly, because if he's given extra half second he can score from any place inside the offensive blue line with his release.

Patrick Babin (Niagara North Stars): A heads up puck mover that can easily break out of his own zone through efficient passes or with his feet. He has a calm demeanor and reads his pressure well. This allows Babin to make strong decisions on choosing to get pucks up ice quickly, or to buy time with good escapeability. He likes to join the rush as a late option and can provide some offense by opening up shooting and passing lanes with good lateral movements.

The top teams hold strong with a new name entering the conversation.

Blake Wright (Ajax-Pickering Raiders): A consistent and dedicated force on the ice, never taking a shift off. With exceptional skating ability, he navigates the rink with quick feet and displays strong leadership qualities. His responsible play extends across all three zones, displaying a well-rounded skill set. Possessing a combination of skill and intelligence, Wright not only contributes individually but also uplifts the team dynamic. His poise with the puck is evident, and he excels in creating scoring opportunities for teammates, thanks to his vision and ability to read the play well.

Sam Mudie (Halton Hurricanes): Big strong 200 foot player that loves to engage in the physical game. Plays above the puck and plays responsibly in all 3 zones. Great speed through the neutral zone and aggressively drives the net. Shoots the puck very well both off the rush and a standstill shooter working the net front slot area or also from the flank on the powerplay. After a strong U16 season, Mudie is showing he has a lot of skill and playmaking himself and is helping Halton in a lot of ways so far.