OHL rookie sensations

Import defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok, an early-season, waiver-wire acquisition by the Flint Firebirds from the London Knights, has been named an Ontario Hockey League first-team, all-star rookie for the 2018-2019 season.

The 6-foot-2, 188-pound skater netted 4 goals, 26 assists, 30 points in 54 games for Flint and was named the Firebirds best defenseman for the 2018-2019 season.

A native of Minsk, Belarus, Kolyachonok is rated as a potential second-round pick ahead of the 2019 National Hockey League draft.

Flint general manager Barclay Branch, who acquired Kolyachonok from London, praised the defenseman’s approach to the game.

“Vlad’s work ethic and determination all season long was apparent,” Branch relayed.

The complete list of OHL all-star rookies is listed below.

FIRST TEAM

Center: Quinton Byfield, Sudbury Wolves.

Left wing: Cole Perfetti, Saginaw Spirit.

Right wing: Jacob Perreault, Sarnia Sting.

Defense: Jamie Drysdale, Erie Otters.

Defense: Vladislav Kolyachonok, Flint Firebirds.

Goalie: Jet Greaves, Barrie Colts.

SECOND TEAM

Center: Marco Rossi, Ottawa 67’s.

Left wing: Will Cuylle, Windsor Spitfires.

Right wing: Tyler Tullio, Oshawa Generals.

Defense: Ryan O’Rourke, Soo Greyhounds.

Defense: Daniil Chayka, Guelph Storm.

Goalie: Zachary Roy, Hamilton Bulldogs.