Kitchener Rangers - Feed https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/author/chlwebproduct/ Tue, 26 May 2026 06:43:03 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Game Preview: Kitchener Conclude Their Round Robin Action Against QMJHL Champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-conclude-their-round-robin-action-against-qmjhl-champion-chicoutimi-sagueneens Tue, 26 May 2026 06:43:03 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-conclude-their-round-robin-action-against-qmjhl-champion-chicoutimi-sagueneens Kelowna, BC – The final round robin game for both Chicoutimi and Kitchener gets underway tonight as the OHL Champion Rangers will play the QMJHL Chicoutimi Saguenéens. The Rangers, holding onto a 2-0-0-0 record will clinch a bye to the Memorial Cup Final with a win tonight. Puck Drop is set for 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time and 9:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.     WATCH PARTIES As the Rangers prepare for late-night puck drops in Kelowna, fans are also encouraged to gather throughout the tournament at local restaurants and community watch parties to cheer on the Blueshirts. Rangers partners will be hosting Official Watch Party locations once again, creating an electric atmosphere throughout #RTown. Fans can enjoy the games with full audio and prizing at Four Fathers Brewing, Moose Winooskis, Jack Astor’s Kitchener and Boston Pizza Bingemans! Follow along for everything Memorial Cup 2026 at our Memorial Cup Headquarters live on our website here!    PLAYOFF RESULTS The OHL Champion Kitchener Rangers took care of the Barrie Colts in four games, en route to hoisting their 5th J. Ross. Robertson Cup in franchise history. Sam O’Reilly (3G 3A) and Dylan Edwards (3G 3A) led the way for the Blueshirts in the final series as they each recorded six points in the four-game set. The Kitchener Rangers held an impressive playoff record of 16-2-0 during the 2026 OHL Playoffs. Round 1: Saginaw Spirit, Round 2: Soo Greyhounds, Round 3: Windsor Spitfires, Round 4: Barrie Colts
The QMJHL Champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens are playing in their third Memorial Cup (1991 & 1994) after clinching their third Gillies-Courteau Trophy. It was a long 32 years between championship runs for the Saguenéens, but the team got the job done in convincing fashion, having swept the first two rounds and winning rounds three and four in six games. Their championship included series wins against, Round 1: Halifax Mooseheads, Round 2: Quebec Remparts, Round 3: Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, Round 4: Moncton Wildcats.
HEAD-TO-HEAD Like Everett on Monday, tonight will be the first game that these two franchises face off against each other as they have never crossed paths in a Memorial Cup matchup before.   RANGERS ROUND UP (2-0-0-0) The Kitchener Rangers earned another convincing victory in their second game over the Everett Silvertips. Cameron Reid wired home the game's first goal in the opening minutes to collect his first Memorial Cup goal. Following a tripping call, the Ranger power play would capitalize with Jack Pridham scoring his second goal of the tournament to give the Rangers an early two-goal lead. However, after a Gabriel Chariot penalty the Silvertips would bring the game to within one as Matias Vanhanen redirected his second of the tournament. In the middle frame, Rylan Gould would pounce on a loose puck  to even things up. Shortly after Christian Humphreys would wire home his first goal of the tournament to grab the Rangers the lead once again. The surge would continue as Gabrial Chariot would net his first of the tournament followed up by Jack Pridham's second of the game, giving the Rangers a 5-2 lead after 40. Cameron Arquette would score the lone 3rd period goal, leading the Rangers to a 6-2 win. Cameron Reid earned Player of the Game honours in game two as the Ranger Captain recorded a four-point (1G, 3A) night. The Nashville Predators prospect had an excellent playoff run for the Blueshirts as the leading scorer amongst Rangers defenceman with 14 points (2G, 12A) in 18 games. Reid, who also picked up an assist in game one, is now up to five (1G, 4A) points through this year's Memorial Cup. Christian Humphreys scored his first goal of the Memorial Cup helping the Rangers to a 6-2 win. Humphreys excelled in the regular season recording 85 points (27G, 58A) in 63 games. His stellar play continued throughout the playoffs as the Colorado Avalanche prospect put up 22 points (9G, 13A) in 18 games. Jack Pridham scored two more goals on Monday night bringing his team lead to three goals through two games. The former West Kelowna Warrior is finding himself in a comfortable spot once again as he was the leading goal and point getter in the regular season for the Blueshirts. Pridham has already surpassed his goal total from the OHL Playoffs (2) with his three goals thus far in the tournament. Christian Kirsch excelled in a heavy work load game for the Blueshirts as the Swiss netminder turned away 40-of-42 shots that he faced.  Kirsch is a perfect 2-0-0-0 and is holding onto the tournament best save percentage (0.970) and goals against average (1.00).
The Kitchener Rangers have a loaded roster of NHL drafted talent. Among twelve players drafted to the NHL, five were selected in the 2025 NHL Draft: Gabriel Chiarot (Vancouver Canucks), Matthew Hlacar (Toronto Maple Leafs), Andrew MacNiel (Montreal Canadians), Cameron Reid (Nashville Predators), and Luca Romano (New York Islanders). The other six players were taken in 2024: Luke Ellinas (Ottawa Senators), Christian Humphreys (Colorado Avalanche), Christian Kirsch (San Jose Sharks), Sam O’Reilly (Tampa Bay Lightning via EDM), Jack Pridham (Chicago Blackhawks), and Jared Woolley (Los Angeles Kings). Matthew Andonovski (Ottawa Senators) was selected in 2023.
  SCOUTING THE SAGUENÉENS (1-1-0-0) The Chicoutimi Saguenéens picked up their first victory of the 2026 Memorial Cup, outlasting the Kelowna Rockets 3-2 in overtime after a tightly contested matchup. Liam Lefebvre earned Player of the Game honours with a two-goal performance, striking first to open the scoring before delivering the overtime winner to secure the victory. The defenceman posted 59 points (32G, 27A) during the 2025-26 regular season, providing a strong blend of offence and reliability from the blue line. Nathan Lecompte added two assists, bringing his total to three points in just two Memorial Cup appearances. The New Jersey Devils prospect has been productive throughout the QMJHL Playoffs with 20 points (7G, 13A) in 20 games, continuing that impact at the tournament. Anton Linde also got on the scoresheet, netting a late third-period goal as his second point of the 2026 Memorial Cup. The Danish forward has carried momentum from international play, having captained Denmark at the 2026 World Juniors. Alex Huang highlights the Saguenéens blueline as their top scorer from the back end. The defenceman recorded 70 points (11G, 59A) through 64 games during the regular season. Huang, a Nashville draft pick, brings an elite sense of offence that also saw him collect 19 points (2G, 17A) in Chicoutimi's 20 playoff games.

Drafted Silvertips:

Chicoutimi has seven NHL drafted players on their roster. Three players heard their names called in the 2024 draft; Maxim Massé (Anaheim Ducks), Tomas Lavoie (Utah Mammoth) and Alexis Bernier (Seattle Kraken) all were picked in the 3rd round. The remaining four players were all picked in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Maxim Schäfer (Washington Capitals) was picked in the 3rd round. Lucas Beckman (Ottawa Senators) and Alex Huang (Nashville Predators) were both picked in the 4th round. Émile Guité (Anaheim Ducks) was selected in the 5th round.
Broadcast Coverage: All games will be broadcasted live on TSN/RDS in Canada and on The NHL Network in the United States. Games will also be broadcasted live on the radio through 570 NewsRadio Kitchener where you will hear the familiar voices of Mike Farwell and Josh Piercey. Streaming services are available through the Victory + platform.
  2026 Memorial Cup schedule: May 22 – Game 1: Kitchener 5-0 Kelowna May 23 – Game 2: Everett 5-3 Chicoutimi May 24 – Game 3: Kelowna 2-3 Chicoutimi (OT) May 25 – Game 4: Everett 2-6 Kitchener  May 26 – Game 5: Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 27 – Game 6: Kelowna vs. Everett — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 28 – Tie-breaker (if necessary) — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 29 – Semi-final — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 31 – Final — 7:00pm ET / 4:00pm PT
  UP NEXT: With a victory over the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, the Kitchener Rangers would punch their ticket directly to the Championship game on Sunday, May 31st. However, because of their 2-0-0-0 start, the Kitchener Rangers have guaranteed at least a semi-final matchup which would be played on Friday, May 29th at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET at Prospera Place.  Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com
]]> Game Recap: Rangers Remain Perfect at Memorial Cup After Victory Over Silvertips https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-remain-perfect-at-memorial-cup-after-victory-over-silvertips Tue, 26 May 2026 05:04:42 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-remain-perfect-at-memorial-cup-after-victory-over-silvertips Kelowna, BC - The Kitchener Rangers moved to 2-0-0 at the 2026 Memorial Cup after a 6-2 victory over the Everett Silvertips in Kelowna, B.C. Jack Pridham (CHI) scored twice while Cameron Reid (NSH), Christian Humphreys (COL), Gabriel Chiarot (VAN) and Cameron Arquette scored for Kitchener while Christian Kirsch (SJ) made 40 Saves. As for Everett, Matias Vanhanen and Rylan Gould had goals as Anders Miller stopped 22 shots. Tied at 2-2 in the second, Kitchener used a three-goal spurt in just 4:37 to take a stranglehold on the game. https://twitter.com/CHLHockey/status/2059102322534527018 Humphreys scored his first of the tournament at 9:46 of the middle frame as he used a Reid screen from the slot to make it 3-2 before Chiarot used his hockey IQ to get himself free from his man by skating behind the yet before a fortunate bounce off a blocked shot landed on his stick with a wide-open cage to aim at at 13:06. Just 1:17 later Pridham fired home his second of the night on a one-timer in the slot off of Luca Romano’s (NYI) nifty pass through the middle of the ice. https://twitter.com/CHLHockey/status/2059105082239840542 Arquette scored Kitchener's sixth of the night with 2:53 to play on an odd-man rush that was set-up by Chiarot. Reid had opened the scoring just 3:05 into the game as from the left dot he picked his spot over Miller’s right shoulder to make it 1-0. The OHL champions would double their lead at 10:22 through Pridham who scored in his second straight game when he found a loose puck on the power play and slid it home from the top of the paint. Everett got on the board 2:10 later through Vanhanen – who also now has goals in back-to-back games – as the puck hit him in the leg after Gould’s initial pass had hit Reid. The Silvertips tied things up at 8:21 of the second as Gould was the only one to locate a loose puck after Kirsch had initially stopped Lukas Kaplan's effort. Reid registered four points in the victory while Pridham's three goals are now a tournament best. Kitchener is back in action Tuesday against Chicoutimi where a win will guarantee them a spot in Sunday's final. Meanwhile, Everett return to the ice Wednesday when they close out the round-robin against hosts Kelowna. The Numbers Game: Shots: EVT 42 - KIT 28 Power play: EVT 1/4 - KIT 1/2 FO%: EVT 39% - KIT 61%   The Starting Goalies: Anders Miller (EVT) - 22/28 Saves, Six Goals Against, Loss Christian Kirsch (KIT) – 40/42 Saves, Two Goals Against, Win   2026 Memorial Cup schedule: May 22 – Game 1: Kitchener 5-0 Kelowna May 23 – Game 2: Everett 5-3 Chicoutimi May 24 – Game 3: Kelowna 2-3 (OT) Chicoutimi May 25 – Game 4: Everett 2-6 Kitchener May 26 – Game 5: Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 27 – Game 6: Kelowna vs. Everett — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 28 – Tie-breaker (if necessary) — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 29 – Semi-final — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 31 – Final — 7:00pm ET / 4:00pm PT   UP NEXT: Fresh off Monday night’s battle with the Everett Silvertips, the Kitchener Rangers play their third-and-final round robin game tomorrow night against the QMJHL Champion, Chicoutimi Saguenéens at 6:00 p.m. EST and 9:00 p.m. PT.
Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> Rangers’ Alexander Bilecki Making The Most of Extended Draft-Year Opportunity https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-alexander-bilecki-making-the-most-of-extended-draft-year-opportunity Tue, 26 May 2026 00:19:12 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-alexander-bilecki-making-the-most-of-extended-draft-year-opportunity Kitchener Rangers defenceman Alexander Bilecki has continued to raise his NHL Draft profile at the perfect time. Now in his second season with the Rangers, the Mississauga, Ont. native enjoyed a career year in 2025-26, recording 29 points (9-20–29) alongside a plus-16 rating in the regular-season before adding another 11 points (2-9–11) during Kitchener’s run to the OHL championship. Selected in the second round (31st overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, Bilecki has steadily developed into a reliable two-way presence known for his flashy, but accurate, passing ability. https://twitter.com/KRangersReport/status/2045514657234858086 With many draft-eligible players already finished for the season, Bilecki has benefited from continuing to play meaningful hockey deep into May and now at the Memorial Cup, gaining valuable experience on one of junior hockey’s biggest stages. Ranked 49th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, the extended postseason run has provided additional opportunities for scouts to evaluate his game against elite competition. He has already made an impact at the tournament as well, recording a two-assist performance in Kitchener’s opening game. https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2058032996595179528 “Just playing my game and doing what it takes to help the team win,” said Bilecki. “It’s always nice to contribute, especially on this big stage.” “As much as it is a big stage, you have to love all the eyes that are on you and just play like any other game.” Bilecki’s growth throughout the season has not gone unnoticed internally either, particularly with the strides he has made away from the puck while continuing to provide offensive upside from the backend. https://twitter.com/OHLHockey/status/2047819104589865306 “Alex’s game has really matured throughout the course of the season,” said Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. “He has all the tools and offensive skill and instincts to be a dynamic player, and has improved a lot on the defensive side of the puck.” On a deep Rangers blueline already filled with NHL prospects and high-end talent, Bilecki has continued working to separate himself and prove he belongs among the next wave of drafted players coming out of Kitchener. “[He’s a] smooth skating defenceman who has a real sense of calm and poise,” said TSN Director of Scouting, Craig Button. “He uses those qualities to handle defensive challenges and to get play moving in the offensive direction.” “Very good vision and gets puck to the right spots at the right times” added Button. “He doesn’t play outside his capabilities and has a lot of room to expand his game.” https://twitter.com/OHLRangers/status/1997120140719067640   With the Rangers continuing their pursuit of a Memorial Cup title, Bilecki will have even more opportunities to showcase the steady, composed game that has quietly made him one of the more intriguing and underrated blueliners to watch ahead of the upcoming NHL Draft.]]> Game Preview: Kitchener Take On WHL Champions Everett in Game Two of Their Memorial Cup Quest https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-take-on-whl-champions-everett-in-game-two-of-their-memorial-cup-quest Sun, 24 May 2026 20:47:15 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-take-on-whl-champions-everett-in-game-two-of-their-memorial-cup-quest Kelowna, BC – The Kitchener Rangers opened their Memorial Cup campaign on a high note with a statement win over the Kelowna Rockets, and now all eyes shift to tonight’s battle against the Everett Silvertips. Riding the momentum from the opening victory, the Rangers are set to hit the ice once again with puck drop set for 6:00 p.m. PT. and 9:00 p.m. EST.     WATCH PARTIES As the Rangers prepare for late-night puck drops in Kelowna, fans are also encouraged to gather throughout the tournament at local restaurants and community watch parties to cheer on the Blueshirts. Rangers partners will be hosting Official Watch Party locations once again, creating an electric atmosphere throughout #RTown. Fans can enjoy the games with full audio and prizing at Four Fathers Brewing, Moose Winooskis, Jack Astor’s Kitchener and Boston Pizza Bingemans! Follow along for everything Memorial Cup 2026 at our Memorial Cup Headquarters live on our website here!    PLAYOFF RESULTS The OHL Champion Kitchener Rangers took care of the Barrie Colts in four games, en route to hoisting their 5th J. Ross. Robertson Cup in franchise history. Sam O’Reilly (3G 3A) and Dylan Edwards (3G 3A) led the way for the Blueshirts in the final series as they each recorded six points in the four-game set. The Kitchener Rangers held an impressive playoff record of 16-2-0 during the 2026 OHL Playoffs. Round 1: Saginaw Spirit, Round 2: Soo Greyhounds, Round 3: Windsor Spitfires, Round 4: Barrie Colts The WHL Champion Everett Silvertips captured their first Ed Chynoweth trophy as they beat the Prince Albert Raiders in five games in the WHL Championship series. It was the third time that Everett had made an appearance in the championship series (2004 & 2018). Like the Kitchener Rangers, the Silvertips held a record of 16-2-0-0 during the 2026 WHL Playoffs. Round 1: Portland Winterhawks,  Round 2: Kelowna Rockets, Round 3: Penticton Vees, Round 4: Price Albert Raiders HEAD-TO-HEAD Tonight will be the first game that these two franchises face off against each other as Everett makes their first ever Memorial Cup appearance.   RANGERS ROUND UP (16-2-0-0) The Rangers won their opening Memorial Cup game against the Kelowna Rockets by a final score of 5-0. Christian Kirsch 's excellent play from the OHL playoffs continued right into the Memorial Cup as he turned away all 24 shots from the Rockets including a perfect 3/3 penalty kill. Kirsch made history on Friday night becoming the first import goaltender to record a shutout at the Memorial Cup. Jack Pridham picked up the first star and Player of the Game honours with a goal and an assist in his return to Kelowna as the former West Kelowna Warrior helped the Rangers surge to a 5-0 win. Pridham joined the Rangers in 2024 from the Warriors in the BCHL. Alexander Bilecki picked up two assists in the Game 1 victory over Kelowna. The draft eligible defenceman has been a key factor in the playoffs for the Rangers as he recorded 11 points (2G, 9A) in 18 games and now through one is game tied for the team lead in points. Bilecki, who was ranked as high as the 49th North American Skater heading into the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, only looks to add to his draft stock here in Kelowna. Haeden Ellis netted his first career Memorial Cup goal to seal the Ranger win at 5-0. Ellis had a productive regular season with 29 points (14G, 15A) in 63 games as well as 8 points (3G, 5A) in 17 playoff games. The 19 year-old centre has been a key focal point in Kitchener's middle six and will look to propel his game for the rest of the tournament following a successful Game 1 win. Drafted Rangers: The Kitchener Rangers have a loaded roster of NHL drafted talent. Among twelve players drafted to the NHL, five were selected in the 2025 NHL Draft: Gabriel Chiarot (Vancouver Canucks), Matthew Hlacar (Toronto Maple Leafs), Andrew MacNiel (Montreal Canadians), Cameron Reid (Nashville Predators), and Luca Romano (New York Islanders). The other six players were taken in 2024: Luke Ellinas (Ottawa Senators), Christian Humphreys (Colorado Avalanche), Christian Kirsch (San Jose Sharks), Sam O’Reilly (Tampa Bay Lightning via EDM), Jack Pridham (Chicago Blackhawks), and Jared Woolley (Los Angeles Kings). Matthew Andonovski (Ottawa Senators) was selected in 2023.   SCOUTING THE SILVERTIPS (1-0-0-0) The Everett Silvertips opened their Memorial Cup campaign in style on Saturday, May 23rd, securing a 5-3 victory over the Chicoutimi Saguenéens in an impressive all-around performance. Jesse Heslop led the way and earned Player of the Game honours after putting together a strong two-way effort, finishing with a goal and an assist. Matias Vanhanen also made a major impact on both ends of the ice, capping off his night with a short-handed empty-net goal in the final 20 seconds to seal the result and add extra cushion on the scoreboard. The turning point came in a dominant second period from Everett’s offence. Lukas Kaplan, Zackary Shantz, and Carter Bear struck in quick succession, piling on three goals in a relentless scoring surge. Everett finished as the top seed in the WHL with a final record of 57-8-2-1, good for 117 points. The team also finished with the most points in the entire CHL and carried their dominating play into the 2026 WHL Playoffs as they went on to hold a 16-2-0-0 record dropping one game in the second round to Kelowna and one game in the Championship Series to Prince Albert. The 2026 WHL Championship run included series wins against Round One: Portland, Round Two: Kelowna, Round Three: Penticton and Round Four: Prince Albert. Julius Miettinen led the team in scoring during their playoff run and was third in team scoring during the regular season. The Finnish forward came over from Finland in 2023 and has played with the Silvertips ever since. The Seattle second-round draft pick recorded 76 points (35G, 41A) in 52 games as well as picking up 27 points (14G, 13A) in 18 games in the playoffs. Carter Bear highlights this Everett team as the Detroit Red Wings selected Bear 13th overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft where he has been a key factor in Everett's deep playoff run. Bear recorded 77 points (36G, 41A) in just 53 games as well as 22 points (7G, 15A) in 18 playoff games. Bear also spent time with team Canada in the World Junior Championships, finding himself in the lineup for two games. Landon Dupont led the Silvertips from the back end as the top 2027 NHL draft prospect recording 73 points (18G, 55A) in 63 games. Dupont earned exceptional status in 2024 allowing him to be picked 1st overall in the 2024 WHL Priority Draft. Dupont also picked up 23 points (5G, 18A) in 18 games this postseason. Drafted Silvertips: Five players from the Everett Silvertips have heard their names called at the NHL Draft over the past two years. In 2025, Carter Bear (Detroit Red Wing), Shea Busch (Florida Panthers), Luke Vlooswyk (Philadelphia Flyers). Julius Miettinen (Seattle Kraken), and Tarin Smith (Anaheim Ducks) were selected in the 2024 NHL Draft. Broadcast Coverage: All games will be broadcasted live on TSN/RDS in Canada and on The NHL Network in the United States. Games will also be broadcasted live on the radio through 570 NewsRadio Kitchener where you will hear the familiar voices of Mike Farwell and Josh Piercey. Streaming services are available through the Victory + platform.   2026 Memorial Cup schedule: May 22 – Game 1: Kitchener 5-0 Kelowna May 23 – Game 2: Everett 5-3 Chicoutimi May 24 – Game 3: Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 25 – Game 4: Everett vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 26 – Game 5: Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 27 – Game 6: Kelowna vs. Everett — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 28 – Tie-breaker (if necessary) — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 29 – Semi-final — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 31 – Final — 7:00pm ET / 4:00pm PT
  UP NEXT: Fresh off Monday night's battle with the Everett Silvertips, the Kitchener Rangers play their third-and-final round robin game tomorrow night against the QMJHL Champion, Chicoutimi Saguenéens at 6:00 p.m. EST and 9:00 p.m. PT. Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com
]]> Game Recap: Rangers shutout Rockets in 2026 Tournament Opener https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-shutout-rockets-in-2026-tournament-opener Sat, 23 May 2026 05:00:09 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-shutout-rockets-in-2026-tournament-opener Game Preview: Kitchener Rangers Begin Their Memorial Cup Journey Against The Host Kelowna Rockets https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-rangers-begin-their-memorial-cup-journey-against-the-host-kelowna-rockets Fri, 22 May 2026 04:39:27 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-preview-kitchener-rangers-begin-their-memorial-cup-journey-against-the-host-kelowna-rockets Kelowna, BC – After an 18-year wait, the Blueshirts are back on junior hockey’s biggest stage. The Kitchener Rangers open their 2026 Memorial Cup campaign Friday night in Kelowna, facing the host Kelowna Rockets in a high-stakes showdown at Prospera Place. Puck drop is set for 6:00 p.m. PST as Kitchener launches its pursuit of a third national title.     WATCH PARTIES As the Rangers prepare for late-night puck drops in Kelowna, fans are also encouraged to gather throughout the tournament at local restaurants and community watch parties to cheer on the Blueshirts. Rangers partners will be hosting Official Watch Party locations once again, creating an electric atmosphere throughout #RTown. Fans can enjoy the games with full audio and prizing at Four Fathers Brewing, Moose Winooskis, Jack Astor’s Kitchener and Boston Pizza Bingemans! Follow along for everything Memorial Cup 2026 at our Memorial Cup Headquarters live on our website here!    PLAYOFF RESULTS The OHL Champion Kitchener Rangers took care of the Barrie Colts in four games, en route to hoisting their 5th J. Ross. Robertson Cup in franchise history. Sam O’Reilly (3G 3A) and Dylan Edwards (3G 3A) led the way for the Blueshirts in the final series as they each recorded six points in the four-game set. The Kitchener Rangers held an impressive playoff record of 16-2-0 during the 2026 OHL Playoffs. Round 1: Saginaw Spirit, Round 2: Soo Greyhounds, Round 3: Windsor Spitfires, Round 4: Barrie Colts The host, Kelowna Rockets were knocked out of the WHL playoffs in the second round by the eventual WHL Champion, Everett Silvertips, in five games. Kelowna swept Kamloops before its second round elimination. Vojtech Cihar led the Rockets in scoring during their playoff run with 13 points (6G, 7A) in nine games. Kelowna held a record of 5-4, dropping one game in overtime. Round 1: Kamloops, Round 2: Everett Silvertips   HEAD-TO-HEAD More than two decades after their last meeting on the Memorial Cup stage, the Kitchener Rangers and Kelowna Rockets are set to collide again in Kelowna. The clubs last met during round-robin play at the 2003 Memorial Cup in Quebec City, where Kitchener earned a 4-2 victory on its way to capturing the Memorial Cup Trophy. Now, 23 years later, both teams return to the pinnacle of junior hockey, with another chance to chase the ultimate prize. The Rangers arrive following their deepest playoff run, while the Rockets open the tournament on home ice in front of a Kelowna crowd for what promises to be a marquee showdown.   RANGERS ROUND UP (16-2-0-0) The Kitchener Rangers played spirited hockey throughout the 2026 playoffs having only dropped two total games for a record of 16-2. The 2026 OHL Championship run included series wins against Saginaw, Sault Ste Marie, Windsor and Barrie. The Rangers were led by Red Tilson (Regular Season MVP) and Wayne Gretzky (Playoff MVP) Winner Sam O’Reilly. O’Reilly, after being acquired from the London Knights earlier in the year recorded 43 points in just 28 games with the Blueshirts heading into the 2026 playoffs where O’Reilly finished second in total scoring with 28 points (17G, 11A) in 18 games. Dylan Edwards was right behind O’Reilly in production for the Rangers. In what is Edwards' final year in the OHL, the overage forward recorded 87 points (40G, 47A) between both the Erie Otters and the Kitchener Rangers. Edwards continued his scoring touch through the playoffs as he recorded 25 points (14G 11A) in 18 games including four points and the overtime winner in Game 3 of the OHL Finals. Jack Pridham makes his return to Kelowna after calling West Kelowna home for parts of two seasons from 2023-2025 where he was a member of the West Kelowna Warriors of the BCHL. Pridham was the leading scorer for the Rangers during the regular season potting 46 goals and adding 44 assists to finish the campaign with 90 points, earning him Overage Player of the Year honours taking home the Leo Lalonde Trophy becoming the third consecutive Ranger to win that award (Sop, 2024 & Parsons, 2025). Although scoring just two goals in 18 playoff games, Pridham is still pacing at just under a point-per-game with 15 assists.   Drafted Rangers: The Kitchener Rangers have a loaded roster of NHL drafted talent. Among twelve players drafted to the NHL, five were selected in the 2025 NHL Draft: Gabriel Chiarot (Vancouver Canucks), Matthew Hlacar (Toronto Maple Leafs), Andrew MacNiel (Montreal Canadians), Cameron Reid (Nashville Predators), and Luca Romano (New York Islanders). The other six players were taken in 2024: Luke Ellinas (Ottawa Senators), Christian Humphreys (Colorado Avalanche), Christian Kirsch (San Jose Sharks), Sam O’Reilly (Tampa Bay Lightning via EDM), Jack Pridham (Chicago Blackhawks), and Jared Woolley (Los Angeles Kings). Matthew Andonovski (Ottawa Senators) was selected in 2023.   SCOUTING THE ROCKETS (5-4-0-0) Kelowna finished the WHL regular season with a record of 38-21-6-3, good enough for fourth place in the Western Conference. They would play the first seeded Kamloops Blazers in the first round, taking care of them in four games, before ultimately losing in the second round to the now WHL Champion Everett Silvertips. Tij Iginla highlights this Rockets team as the sixth overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft and will look to do something that his father Jarome did twice in his CHL career, which is win the Memorial Cup. Iginla led the Rockets during the regular season as he recorded 90 points (41G, 49A) in 48 games. Iglina also represented Canada at this year's World Junior Championships, helping the team earn a Bronze medal while also recording 8 points (4G, 4A)  in seven games. Rockets captain Carson Wetsch is another component to this Rockets team as the San Jose prospect finished second in team scoring during the regular season with 72 points (22G, 50A) in 60 games. Wetsch, a 3rd-round pick in the 2024 NHL draft also picked up four points (2G, 2A) this post season. Czech forward Vojtěch Čihař had himself a nice WHL playoff debut as he only featured in 31 regular season games. The Kings second-round pick picked up 13 points in nine playoff games for the Rockets which led the team. Čihař was also a crucial player for the Czechs in this year's World Junior Championships as the forward picked up 12 points in seven games en route to a Silver Medal and second World Junior medal of his career.

Another Czech left winger, Tomáš Poletín, also made his presence felt during the 2026 WHL Playoffs, finishing with five points (2G, 3A) in nine appearances. He also appeared at the 2026 World Junior Championship alongside Čihař, with both players representing Czechia on the international stage.

  Drafted Rockets: Kelowna have eight drafted players. Tij Iginla (UTA) highlights the group as he was picked 6th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Peyton Kettles (PIT) and Vojtech Cihar (LAK)  were both selected in the 2nd round in the 2025 NHL draft. Hiroki Gojsic (NSH) and Carson Wetsch (SJS) were both picked in the 3rd round in 2024 while Hayden Paupanekis (MTL) was picked in the 3rd round in 2025. Tomas Poletin (NYI) was picked in the 4th round in 2025 and Parker Alcos (VAN) was picked in the 6th round in 2024.   Broadcast Coverage: All games will be broadcasted live on TSN/RDS in Canada and on The NHL Network in the United States. Games will also be broadcasted live on the radio through 570 NewsRadio Kitchener where you will hear the familiar voices of Mike Farwell and Josh Piercey. Streaming services are available through the Victory + platform.   UP NEXT: The Rangers will have two days off following tonight's opening game. Monday, May 25th they will face off against the WHL Champions Everett Silvertips. Puck Drop is set for 6:00 p.m. PT and 9:00 p.m. EST.   Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> Kitchener Rangers Broadcast Schedule Details and Information https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-broadcast-schedule-details Thu, 21 May 2026 20:21:21 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-broadcast-schedule-details Kelowna, BC - Memorial Cup action begins tomorrow night as your Kitchener Rangers open up their tournament against the host Kelowna Rockets. All games will be broadcasted live on TSN/RDS in Canada and on The NHL Network in the United States. Games will also be broadcasted live on the radio through 570 NewsRadio Kitchener where you will hear the familiar voices of Mike Farwell and Josh Piercey. Streaming services are available through the Victory + platform.   Game 1: Friday, May 22nd at 6:00 p.m. PST/ 9:00 p.m. EST | TSN 1/3 Game 2: Monday, May 25th at 6:00 p.m. PST/ 9:00 p.m. EST | TSN 1/3 Game 3: Tuesday, May 26th at 6:00 p.m. PST/ 9:00 p.m. EST | TSN 3/4/5 Tie-Breaker: Thursday, May 28th at 6:00 p.m. PST/ 9:00 p.m. EST | TSN 1/3 (if necessary) Semi Final Friday, May 29th at 6:00 p.m. PST/ 9:00 p.m. EST | TSN 1/3 Championship Game: Sunday, May 31st 4:00 p.m. PST/ 7:00 p.m. EST | TSN 1/3/4   Important Information:    Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> 2026 Memorial Cup point system and overtime rules https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/2026-memorial-cup-point-system-and-overtime-rules Thu, 21 May 2026 16:20:07 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/2026-memorial-cup-point-system-and-overtime-rules Additionally, the following formula will be used to decide final standings:
  1. If two teams tie for the final playoff position, at the conclusion of the single round robin series of games, a sudden death game between the two tied teams shall be played with the winner to advance to the semi-final game. The home team, in the sudden-death game, shall be the team that won the round robin game between the two teams.
  2. In the event three teams should tie for the final playoff place position at the conclusion of the single round robin series of games, the game each team played against the first-place team shall be removed from their records. The tie breaking formula shall be as follows: Add each team’s goals for with their goals against which sum you divide into such team’s goals for.  The team with the highest percentage gains the higher position in the standings and an automatic berth as home team in the semi-final game. The remaining two teams shall play a sudden-death game with the winner to advance to the semi-final game. The home team in the suddendeath game will be the team that won the round robin game between the two teams.
  3. In the event following this mathematical exercise all three teams should remain tied, the game each team played against the first place team shall be added to their records.  The same formula from 2 (i) will be applied to finalize the rankings of the three teams. In the event that two teams still remain tied after 2 (ii), the round robin game between the two teams will determine their order of position. 
  4. In the event that two teams shall be tied for a playoff position, other than the final playoff spot, the game between the two teams in the round robin shall determine the higher ranked team. In the event three teams should be tied for first place at the conclusion of the single round robin series of games, the game each team played against the fourth place team shall be removed from their records.  The tie breaking formula shall be as follows:  Add each team’s goals for with their goals against which sum you divide into such team’s goals for.  The team with the highest percentage gains the higher ranking in the standings and an automatic berth as the home team in the Memorial Cup Championship game.  The remaining two teams shall play in the semi-final game.  The home team in the semi-final game will be the team that won the round robin game between the two teams.   
  5. In the event following this mathematical exercise, all three teams remain tied for first place, the game that each team played against the fourth placed team shall be added to their records.  The same formula from 3 will be applied to finalize the rankings of the three teams. In the event that two teams still remain tied after 3 above, the round robin game between the two teams will determine their order of position.   
The 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota is scheduled for May 21-31 in Kelowna, B.C. Every game of the 2026 Memorial Cup will air in Canada on TSN and RDS, with live streaming available on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In the United States, fans can watch every game on NHL Network, while viewers outside Canada can stream the tournament live on Victory+. 2026 Memorial Cup schedule: May 22 – Game 1: Kitchener vs. Kelowna — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 23 – Game 2: Everett vs. Chicoutimi — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 24 – Game 3: Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 25 – Game 4: Everett vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 26 – Game 5: Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 27 – Game 6: Kelowna vs. Everett — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 28 – Tie-breaker (if necessary) — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 29 – Semi-final — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 31 – Final — 7:00pm ET / 4:00pm PT]]> NHL prospects set to shine at 2026 Memorial Cup https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/nhl-prospects-set-to-shine-at-2026-memorial-cup Thu, 21 May 2026 16:19:35 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/nhl-prospects-set-to-shine-at-2026-memorial-cup Cameron Reid (NSH) and Sam O'Reilly (TB). Hosts Kelowna - who will make their first Memorial Cup appearance since 2015 - have eight NHL prospects on their roster led by Tij Iginla who was the first ever pick by the Utah Mammoth when chosen sixth overall in 2024. Iginla is also the highest drafted player in the entire tournament. Chicoutimi - who ended a 32-year wait for a QMJHL title - boast seven NHL prospects. Leading the way is the reigning QMJHL MVP Maxim Massé who was a third-round pick by Anaheim in 2024. Finally, Everett - who will make their Memorial Cup debut after they won their first WHL title - bring five NHL prospects to the table led by Carter Bear who was the 11th overall selection by Detroit in 2025. The Anaheim Ducks, Nashville Predators, Ottawa Senators lead NHL representation at the tournament with three prospects each while the LA Kings Montreal Canadiens, New York Islanders, San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken, Vancouver Canucks and Utah Mammoth also have a pair each playing in Kelowna The 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota is scheduled for May 21-31 in Kelowna, B.C. Every game of the 2026 Memorial Cup will air in Canada on TSN and RDS, with live streaming available on TSN.ca, the TSN app, RDS.ca, and the RDS app. In the United States, fans can watch every game on NHL Network, while viewers outside Canada can stream the tournament live on Victory+. NHL Prospects by Team:  Kitchener Rangers (12) Matthew Andonovski - Ottawa Senators (140th overall / 2023) Gabriel Chiarot - Vancouver Canucks (175th overall / 2025) Luke Ellias - Ottawa Senators (104th overall / 2024) Matthew Hlacar - Toronto Maple Leafs (217th overall / 2025) Christian Humphries - Colorado Avalanche (215th overall / 2024) Christian Kirsch - San Jose Sharks (116th overall / 2024) Andrew MacNiel - Montreal Canadiens (189th overall / 2025) Sam O'Reilly - Tampa Bay Lightning via Edmonton Oilers (32nd overall / 2024) Jack Pridham - Chicago Blackhawks (92nd overall / 2024) Cameron Reid - Nashville Predators (21st overall / 2025) Anthony Romano - New York Islanders (74th overall / 2025) Jared Woolley - LA Kings (164th overall / 2024) Kelowna Rockets (8) Parker Alcos - Vancouver Canucks (189th overall / 2024) Vojtech Cihar - LA Kings (59th overall / 2025) Hiroki Gojsic - Nashville Predators (94th overall / 2024) Peyton Kettles - Pittsburgh Penguins (39th overall / 2025) Tij Iginla - Utah Mammoth (6th overall / 2025) Hayden Paupanekis - Montreal Canadiens (69th overall / 2025) Tomas Poletin - New York Islanders (106th overall / 2025) Carson Wetsch - San Jose Sharks (82nd overall / 2024) Chicoutimi Sagueneens (7) Lucas Beckman - Ottawa Senators (97th overall / 2025) Alexis Bernier - Seattle Kraken (73rd overall / 2024) Émile Guité - Anaheim Ducks (159th overall / 2025) Alex Huang - Nashivlle Predators (122nd overall / 2025) Tomas Lavoie - Utah Mammoth (89th overall / 2024) Maxim Massé - Anaheim Ducks (66th overall / 2024) Maxim Schäfer - Washington Capitals (96th overall / 2025) Everett Silvertips (5) Carter Bear - Detroit Red Wings (11th overall / 2025) Shea Busch - Florida Panthers (128th overall / 2025) Julius Miettinen - Seattle Kraken (40th overall / 2024) Tarin Smith - Anaheim Ducks (79th overall / 2024) Luke Vlooswyk - Philadelphia Flyers (157th overall / 2025) 2026 Memorial Cup schedule: May 22 – Game 1: Kitchener vs. Kelowna — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 23 – Game 2: Everett vs. Chicoutimi — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 24 – Game 3: Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 25 – Game 4: Everett vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 26 – Game 5: Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 27 – Game 6: Kelowna vs. Everett — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 28 – Tie-breaker (if necessary) — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 29 – Semi-final — 9:00pm ET / 6:00pm PT May 31 – Final — 7:00pm ET / 4:00pm PT  ]]> Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco to officially welcome Memorial Cup to Kelowna on Thursday https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/arrival-of-the-cup-presented-by-canco-to-officially-welcome-memorial-cup-to-kelowna-on-thursday Thu, 21 May 2026 16:18:51 +0000 chlwebproduct https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/arrival-of-the-cup-presented-by-canco-to-officially-welcome-memorial-cup-to-kelowna-on-thursday

Fans are encouraged to take part in two free community events on Thursday, beginning with the Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco at 4:30 p.m. PT and continuing with the Community Kickoff Event at Stuart Park from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PT.

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL), Kelowna Rockets, and 2026 Memorial Cup Host Organizing Committee will officially welcome the Memorial Cup to Kelowna tomorrow, Thursday, May 21, with the Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco — a free community celebration that will bring together tradition, culture, remembrance, and local pride. The parade will begin at 4:30 p.m. PT at City Park, where the Memorial Cup will arrive by Westbank First Nation Canoe Brigade before being ceremonially handed off from Indigenous Veterans to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, honouring the trophy’s enduring connection to service and sacrifice. Following the handoff, the Memorial Cup will make its way out of City Park before heading north to Bernard Avenue, continuing along Water Street, and concluding at Stuart Park. Fans of all ages are encouraged to line Bernard Avenue and Water Street to take in the parade and are advised to arrive early to secure a viewing spot for the official opening celebration. A formal welcome ceremony will follow at Stuart Park from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. PT, introducing the four teams competing in the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota: the host Kelowna Rockets, Western Hockey League (WHL) champion Everett Silvertips, Ontario Hockey League (OHL) champion Kitchener Rangers, and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens. The ceremony will also feature cultural elements from Westbank First Nation, remarks from distinguished guests including Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas, Member of Parliament Stephen Fuhr, and CHL President Dan MacKenzie, and the unveiling of the Kelowna Rockets’ commemorative jersey, which will be worn during Friday’s opening game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota against the Kitchener Rangers at 6 p.m. PT at Prospera Place. “The Arrival of the Cup is one of the great traditions of the Memorial Cup, and this year’s celebration in Kelowna will be especially meaningful,” said Dan MacKenzie, President of the CHL. “Bringing together Westbank First Nation, Veterans, the Canadian Armed Forces, the City of Kelowna, the Rockets, the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL champions, and fans from across the country, this event will set the tone for an unforgettable tournament.” The commemorative jersey unveiling continues a Memorial Cup tradition that began at the 2008 Memorial Cup in Kitchener, Ont., when the host Kitchener Rangers became the first team to wear special opening-game jerseys in support of The Royal Canadian Legion. Since then, the Canadian Hockey League and the Member Leagues have raised more than $320,000 for The Royal Canadian Legion’s Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund, which supports Veterans and their families. Immediately following the Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco, the celebration will continue at Stuart Park with the Community Kickoff Event from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PT. The event will feature live music, local food vendors, interactive activations, and entertainment for all ages, serving as a lively centrepiece of the tournament’s opening week. The 2025-26 season marks the 106th time the Memorial Cup will be presented. First awarded in 1919 after being donated by the Ontario Hockey Association, the trophy was created in remembrance of the many soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice for Canada in the First World War and was rededicated in 2010 to honour all fallen Canadian military personnel. The 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, scheduled from May 21-31, marks the return of the CHL’s championship event to Kelowna for the first time since 2004, when the Rockets captured the Memorial Cup on home ice. In addition to the host Kelowna Rockets, the 106th edition of the tournament will feature the Everett Silvertips, Kitchener Rangers, and Chicoutimi Saguenéens. For more information on the 2026 Memorial Cup, including details on the Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco, the Community Kickoff Event, and other events taking place throughout the tournament, visit chl.ca/memorialcup-eventdetails.  Arrival of the Cup presented by Canco Date: Thursday, May 21 Time: Parade begins at 4:30 p.m. PT; welcome ceremony from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. PT Parade Route: City Park to Stuart Park, Bernard Avenue, and Water Street Ceremony Location: Stuart Park, 1430 Water St., Kelowna, B.C. Admission: Free and open to the public Community Kickoff Event Date: Thursday, May 21 Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PT Location: Stuart Park, 1430 Water St., Kelowna, B.C. Admission: Free and open to the public About the Memorial Cup The Memorial Cup is the Canadian Hockey League’s iconic championship event, bringing together the league champions of the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), along with a host team, in a four-club round-robin tournament to crown the national champion. First awarded in 1919, the Memorial Cup has become one of the most storied and prestigious trophies in hockey, shaping more than a century of junior hockey history in North America. Originally donated by the Ontario Hockey Association to honour Canadian soldiers who gave their lives in the First World War, the trophy was rededicated in 2010 to commemorate all fallen members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Today, the Memorial Cup stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, sacrifice, and national pride, while showcasing the best junior hockey talent in the world.]]>