tters — a team built on star power. But it was the Oshawa Generals, armed with structure, discipline, and one of the deepest rosters in junior hockey, who outlasted them all.
From opening night in September to the final horn in Quebec City, Oshawa was relentless. Their game wasn’t flashy — it was punishing, suffocating, and built to win in May.
A Roster of Role Players and Rising Stars
The Generals’ identity was forged from the net out. Ken Appleby turned in a masterclass performance in goal, while the defensive core — led by Dakota Mermis, Chris Carlisle, and Stephen Desrocher — made life miserable for opponents in every zone.
Up front, the lineup was balanced and relentless. Veterans like Michael Dal Colle, Tobias Lindberg, and Brent Pedersen created matchup nightmares, while youngsters like Anthony Cirelli stepped up when it mattered most.
Cirelli’s Moment
In the Memorial Cup final against the WHL champion Kelowna Rockets, the hockey world met a name they’d never forget.
Anthony Cirelli, an undrafted walk-on who made the team in camp, scored both goals — including the overtime winner — to deliver Oshawa’s first national title since 1990.
It wasn’t just a great hockey moment. It was the beginning of a career that woul
d include two Stanley Cups with the Tampa Bay Lightning — and a reputation as one of the clutchest players in the game.
Built by D.J. Smith
Behind the bench, head coach D.J. Smith (now in the NHL) demanded consistency, composure, and commitment. The Generals were more than a team — they were a system. Every player knew their role. Every shift had purpose.
When the stakes rose, they didn’t flinch.
Still Standing 10 Years Later
As we mark the 10th anniversary of that championship run, the 2015 Generals remain a blueprint for junior hockey success. Many players went on to the pros. Others stayed in the game as coaches, scouts, or mentors.
But they’ll all tell you the same thing: nothing compared to that spring in 2015.
