Ryder Fetterolf, an 18-year-old goaltender from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, was selected by the Carolina Hurricanes in the fourth round, 125th overall, in the 2026 NHL Draft, capping off a standout rookie season in the OHL. The 6-foot, 186-pound left-catching netminder is undersized for the position but compensates with sharp edges, quick post-to-post explosiveness, and strong puck tracking.
Fetterolf’s draft-year breakout was hard to miss. Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Ottawa 67’s, he was named OHL and CHL Goaltender of the Year for 2025-26, won the league’s Jim Rutherford Trophy, and set a new OHL rookie and franchise record with six shutouts. Most projections had him going several rounds earlier than he ultimately did. He’s set to join Penn State for the 2026-27 season, giving the program a strong tandem alongside returning starter Josh Fleming.
Fetterolf played his draft season with the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s, going 29-9-3 with a .923 save percentage and a 2.07 GAA across 41 games, continuing his development as one of the most decorated rookie goaltenders to come out of the OHL this year.
Stats and info via EliteProspects.com & other media reporting
Frequently Asked Questions
What team drafted Ryder Fetterolf? Ryder Fetterolf was selected by the Carolina Hurricanes in the fourth round, 125th overall, in the 2026 NHL Draft.
What team did Ryder Fetterolf play for before the draft? He played for the Ottawa 67’s in the OHL, where he was named OHL and CHL Goaltender of the Year as a rookie.
What awards did Ryder Fetterolf win in his draft season? He won the OHL’s Jim Rutherford Trophy as goaltender of the year and the CHL Goaltender of the Year award, and set a new OHL rookie record with six shutouts.
What’s Ryder Fetterolf’s playing style? Scouts describe him as undersized for a goaltender but highly athletic, relying on quick edges, post-to-post explosiveness, and strong puck tracking to make up for his height.
How tall is Ryder Fetterolf? He stands 6-foot and weighs 186 pounds, and catches left-handed.
Where will Ryder Fetterolf play college hockey? He’s committed to Penn State, joining the Nittany Lions for the 2026-27 season.
