Kitchener Rangers - Feed

Game Recap: Rangers shutout Rockets in 2026 Tournament Opener

Alyscia Warner — Sat, 23 May 2026 05:00:09 +0000

Game Preview: Kitchener Rangers Begin Their Memorial Cup Journey Against The Host Kelowna Rockets

Alyscia Warner — Fri, 22 May 2026 04:39:27 +0000

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.

TV: TSN/RDS (Canada)
TV: The NHL Network (US)
Video Stream: Victory Plus
Radio: 570 NewsRadio Kitchener
Live Stats 
Live Tweets

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

Alyscia Warner — Thu, 21 May 2026 20:21:21 +0000

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

Alyscia Warner — Thu, 21 May 2026 16:20:07 +0000

Ahead of the start of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota in Kelowna, B.C., it's worth a quick reminder of the tournament's point system and overtime rules. Two points are awarded to the winning team in each round-robin game of the Memorial Cup, regardless of whether the team wins in regulation time or overtime, while the losing team will not receive a point in regulation or overtime. Overtime in the round-robin will continue to be played in a 3-on-3 format in 20-minute periods until a winner is decided. The intermissions between the third period and overtime and each additional overtime period are 15 minutes. There are no TV timeouts during overtime although a quick scrape in front of the nets and benches will be done at the first stoppage after the 10-minute mark should the overtime continue. It is worth noting that these overtime rules differentiate slightly for the tie-breaker, semi-final and championship games of the Memorial Cup where overtime is played in a 5-on-5 format in 20-minute periods until a winner is decided. Additionally, the following formula will be used to decide final standings:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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

Alyscia Warner — Thu, 21 May 2026 16:19:35 +0000

The future of the NHL will be on full display at the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota. This year’s tournament will feature a plethora of talent as 32 NHL drafted players will suit up for the Kelowna Rockets, Everett Silvertips, Kitchener Rangers and Chicoutimi Sagueneens. The Rangers - who won their first OHL title since 2008 - lead the way with 12 NHL prospects led by first round selections 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

Alyscia Warner — Thu, 21 May 2026 16:18:51 +0000

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.

Community Rallies to Send Rangers Off to the 2026 Memorial Cup

Alyscia Warner — Thu, 21 May 2026 00:49:23 +0000

Driven by community pride and an 18-year wait, hundreds braved the heat at Carl Zehr Square to fuel the Rangers’ journey to Kelowna. Written by Cassidy Derry May 20, 2026 After 18 years, the J. Ross Robertson Cup returned to Kitchener as hundreds gathered at City Hall to celebrate the OHL Champions and send them off to the Memorial Cup. For the Blueshirts faithful, this moment has been nearly two decades in the making. Despite a heat warning and impending storm clouds, fans gathered as early as 4:00 p.m. in Carl Zehr Square. The sea of blue, red, and white clustered around the stage for live music from The Golden Keys, refusing to let the weather dampen the hometown celebration. For long-time Kitchener Auditorium usher Dawn Fiskin, the send-off was deeply reminiscent of the Rangers last trip to the Memorial Cup in 2008 and the year they brought the national trophy home in 2003. "When you work at The Aud every single night, you see how much this city lives and breathes with the team,” Fiskin said. “To go 18 years without seeing that J. Ross Robertson Cup come back to Kitchener... it’s been a long time coming, and looking out at the square today, you can see the relief and the pure joy on everyone's faces. Kitchener needed this." For many Rangers fans, this is their very first time experiencing a national championship run. “I look around the crowd tonight and I see all these young kids on their parents’ shoulders, and it just takes me back to 2008 and 2003,” Fiskin continued. “The little ones here today…they’ve only ever heard stories about the double-decker buses and the cup being raised at City Hall. To know that this 2026 run is giving them their own core memory—something they are going to carry with them for the rest of their lives just like we did—that’s what makes me the proudest to be a part of this community.” Sheila Sames, 41, has been cheering for the Rangers since she was five years old. Now, she’s passing her love for the team down to her kids. For her 17-year-old son, Keegan, this championship bridges a longtime love for the sport of hockey and a lifetime cheering for the Rangers. “I’ve been watching the Rangers my whole life,” said Keegan. “We’ve had season tickets for a couple years and it’s awesome watching—win or lose, it’s a great community.” For his 9-year-old sister, Carley, the Rangers are her favourite hockey team. When asked if she was going to be allowed to stay up past her bedtime to watch the late-night West Coast broadcasts this week, mom was quick to jump in with a smile. “I’ll definitely let her stay awake,” Sheila laughed. “It’s something to remember for the rest of her life, and something for her and her brother to be able to bond over.” While the team will be thousands of miles away in Kelowna, they carry with them the support of the entire city. Head Coach Jussi Ahokas called the local crowd “the sixth player on the ice,” a testament to the team’s perfect 10-0 post-season record at home. “We play at the Aud, and we win at the Aud,” he said to cheers from the crowd. In Kitchener, the team belongs to the community. That unique ownership structure dictates everything from the decisions made in the front office down to the culture in the locker room. Rangers Chief Operating Officer, Joe Birch, noted that this championship group is a direct reflection of a management team that actively scouts for character. “There are responsibilities and expectations,” said Birch. “The community gives the players a lot, and we expect a lot back from our players.” Competing in a national tournament on live television, the players bear a unique weight as ambassadors of not only the game of hockey, but the hard-working, blue-collar identity of the Kitchener-Waterloo region. “The Rangers have such a long history of being a community-focused team, from its ownership model, to sponsoring minor hockey, partnering with organizations like Oktoberfest for their 50th anniversary, and the annual Remembrance Day Jersey,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “I think the love that they show the community has really been shown this year from the community back to the Rangers.” Looking out at the crowd, Rangers Captain Cameron Reid made it clear that the community's support means a lot to the players. "It's absolutely everything," Reid said. "We're going to give back to that; we're going to be the hardest working team there." The whole city of Kitchener is behind the team, providing fuel the players will carry with them across the country to Kelowna. “My message to the boys is just to enjoy every single second of it and give it everything they’ve got,” said Dawn. “They have earned the right to be on that national stage, the whole city is behind them, and they are going to remember this experience for the rest of their lives.” As the team left the stage to cheers of “We want the Cup” and “Bring home the Cup,” the words were a reminder that the work isn’t done—it’s only just beginning. For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com

Tournament field set for 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, with opening game scheduled for Friday, May 22

Alyscia Warner — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:15:34 +0000

All games from the 106th edition of the Memorial Cup in Kelowna, B.C., will air live in Canada on TSN and RDS, in the United States on NHL Network, and stream on Victory+ outside of Canada.

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is excited to announce the field for the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, which will take place May 21-31 in Kelowna, British Columbia. In addition to the host Kelowna Rockets of the Western Hockey League (WHL), the 106th edition of the Memorial Cup will feature the WHL champion Everett Silvertips, the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) champion Kitchener Rangers, and the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens. The three league champions secured their spots by capturing their respective titles, with Everett winning its first-ever Ed Chynoweth Cup, Kitchener claiming its fifth J. Ross Robertson Cup, and Chicoutimi earning its third Gilles-Courteau Trophy — and first in 32 years. The opening game of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota is scheduled for Friday, May 22 at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET, when the host Rockets face the OHL champion Rangers. The complete tournament schedule can be found below. This year’s 106th edition of the Memorial Cup marks the return of the CHL’s championship event to the Okanagan for the first time since 2004. Held over 11 days, the tournament will see the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL champions join the host Rockets in a four-team round-robin tournament to determine the 2026 CHL champion. 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+. Host – Kelowna Rockets (sixth Memorial Cup appearance – 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2015, 2026; one Memorial Cup title – 2004) The Kelowna Rockets are set to make their sixth Memorial Cup appearance as hosts of the 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota, bringing the tournament back to Kelowna for the first time since 2004. Kelowna’s six Memorial Cup appearances since 2000 are the second-most of any club across the CHL over that span, underscoring the Rockets’ sustained place among junior hockey’s premier programs. Led by General Manager Bruce Hamilton and Head Coach Derrick Martin, the Rockets enter the tournament after finishing the regular season with a 38-21-6-3 record before sweeping longtime B.C. Division rival Kamloops in the opening round of the 2026 WHL Playoffs. Kelowna then pushed WHL regular-season champion Everett in the second round, falling in five games to the eventual Ed Chynoweth Cup-winning Silvertips. Now back on home ice at the Memorial Cup, the Rockets will look to capture the franchise’s second Memorial Cup title — and first since winning it all as hosts in 2004. Kelowna is led by Utah Mammoth prospect Tij Iginla, who posted a team-leading 90 points (41G-49A) in 48 regular-season games while ranking second across the CHL in scoring rate at 1.88 points per game — the highest mark by a WHL skater in 2025-26. San Jose Sharks prospect and captain Carson Wetsch also turned in a career year with 72 points (22G-50A) before signing his entry-level contract ahead of the Memorial Cup, while Los Angeles Kings prospect Vojtech Cihar, the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship MVP, made an immediate impact after joining Kelowna and led the club with 13 points (6G-7A) in nine playoff games. In goal, 2026 NHL Draft-eligible netminder Harrison Boettiger gives Kelowna a steady presence, highlighted by a strong first-round performance against Kamloops. With NHL-drafted talent throughout the lineup — including Iginla, Wetsch, Nashville Predators prospect Hiroki Gojsic, New York Islanders prospect Tomas Poletin, Cihar, Montreal Canadiens prospect Hayden Paupanekis, Vancouver Canucks prospect Parker Alcos, and Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Peyton Kettles — along with a key draft-eligible player in Boettiger, the Rockets bring high-end skill, depth, and a familiar championship stage to their pursuit of another historic Memorial Cup run in Kelowna. WHL Champions – Everett Silvertips (making their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance in 2026) The Everett Silvertips are set to make their first-ever Memorial Cup appearance after capturing the franchise’s first Ed Chynoweth Cup with a 4-1 series win over the Prince Albert Raiders in the 2026 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien. Since joining the WHL in 2003-04, Everett had twice reached the league final — in its inaugural season in 2004 and again in 2018 — but had never broken through. Guided by WHL Coach of the Year Steve Hamilton, who earned his first WHL title as a head coach, the Silvertips delivered a dominant 16-2 playoff run, sweeping Portland and Penticton, defeating Memorial Cup-host Kelowna in five games, and clinching the championship with a 7-2 win over Prince Albert in Game 5. Everett’s breakthrough followed one of the strongest regular seasons in modern WHL history, as the Silvertips captured a second straight Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy with a franchise-best 57-8-2-1 record. Seattle Kraken prospect Julius Miettinen led the way offensively with 27 points (14G-13A) in 18 playoff games on his way to WHL Playoffs MVP honours, becoming just the second European player to win the award after Leon Draisaitl with Kelowna in 2015, and the fifth European player across the CHL to be named MVP of his league’s playoffs. Miettinen’s line with Detroit Red Wings prospect Carter Bear and 2026 NHL Draft prospect Matias Vanhanen was central to Everett’s attack, with Bear recording 22 points (7G-15A) and Vanhanen adding 24 (12G-12A). On the blueline, 16-year-old and top 2027 NHL Draft prospect Landon DuPont elevated his game in the absence of injured captain Tarin Smith, posting 23 points (5G-18A) in 18 playoff contests. Florida Panthers prospect Shea Busch delivered a hat trick in the Game 5 clincher, while midseason acquisition Anders Miller was the goalie of record in all 18 playoff games, finishing 16-2. Built by General Manager Mike Fraser, Everett’s roster features five NHL-drafted prospects — Miettinen, Bear, Busch, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Luke Vlooswyk, and Smith — along with notable NHL Draft prospects Vanhanen, DuPont, and Brek Liske. Now, after finally breaking through as WHL Champions, the Silvertips head to Kelowna looking to complete the greatest season in franchise history by capturing their first Memorial Cup title. OHL Champions – Kitchener Rangers (seventh Memorial Cup appearance – 1981, 1982, 1984, 1990, 2003, 2008 & 2026; two Memorial Cup titles – 1982 & 2003) The Kitchener Rangers are set to make their seventh Memorial Cup appearance — tied for the second-most since the tournament adopted its round-robin format in 1972 — after capturing the franchise’s fifth J. Ross Robertson Cup with a sweep of the Barrie Colts in the 2026 OHL Championship Series presented by Nissan. Kitchener sealed its first OHL title since 2008 with a 4-2 win in Game 4 at Sadlon Arena, as Christian Humphreys tipped home the eventual game-winner midway through the third period before Sam O’Reilly added an empty-netter to secure the championship. Built by General Manager Mike McKenzie and guided by Head Coach Jussi Ahokas, the Rangers finished the postseason with a dominant 16-2 record, sweeping Saginaw in the opening round, defeating the Soo Greyhounds and Windsor Spitfires in five games apiece, and closing out Barrie in four straight to return to the Memorial Cup for the first time in 18 years. Kitchener’s championship run was powered by one of the deepest lineups in the CHL, featuring 12 NHL-drafted players and high-end talent throughout the roster. Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Sam O’Reilly led the way with 28 points (17G-11A) in 18 playoff games on his way to Wayne Gretzky “99” Award honours as OHL Playoff MVP, capping a standout season in which he also captured the Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player. In doing so, O’Reilly became just the seventh player in OHL history to win the Red Tilson Trophy and the Wayne Gretzky “99” Trophy in the same season. By winning the J. Ross Robertson Cup, O’Reilly and Los Angeles Kings prospect Jared Woolley became just the second and third players in OHL history since 1980 to win three consecutive OHL championships, joining Scott Timmins (2008-10) as the only players to achieve the feat. Colorado Avalanche prospect Christian Humphreys was a key offensive driver and delivered the championship-clinching goal, while Nashville Predators first-round pick and captain Cameron Reid anchored the Rangers from the back end before accepting the J. Ross Robertson Cup. Kitchener also received major contributions from Chicago Blackhawks prospect Jack Pridham, New York Islanders prospect Luca Romano, Ottawa Senators prospect Luke Ellinas, Vancouver Canucks prospect Gabriel Chiarot, and a deep drafted group that included Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Matthew Hlacar, Montreal Canadiens prospect Andrew MacNiel, San Jose Sharks prospect Christian Kirsch, and Ottawa Senators prospect Matthew Andonovski. Now, the Rangers head to Kelowna looking to add a third Memorial Cup championship to one of the OHL’s most decorated résumés. QMJHL Champions – Chicoutimi Saguenéens (fourth Memorial Cup appearance – 1991, 1994, 1997 & 2026) The Chicoutimi Saguenéens are set to make their fourth Memorial Cup appearance — and first in nearly 30 years — after capturing the franchise’s third Gilles-Courteau Trophy with a six-game victory over the Moncton Wildcats in the 2026 QMJHL Championship Series. The title marked Chicoutimi’s first QMJHL championship in 32 years, dating back to 1994, and capped a dominant playoff run that saw the Saguenéens sweep Halifax and Québec, defeat Rouyn-Noranda in six games, and outlast Moncton in the final. Built and guided by Head Coach and General Manager Yanick Jean, the QMJHL’s all-time winningest head coach and the 2025-26 Maurice-Filion Trophy recipient as General Manager of the Year, Chicoutimi turned one of the most complete seasons in franchise history into its long-awaited return to the Memorial Cup. The Saguenéens’ championship followed a standout regular season in which they finished just one point shy of first overall in the QMJHL while leading the QMJHL in both goals for and goals against. Chicoutimi captured the Luc-Robitaille Trophy as the QMJHL’s top offensive team with 321 goals and the Robert-Lebel Trophy as the league’s top defensive club after allowing just 150, while its 49 wins ranked second in franchise history. Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim Massé led the way after a career-defining campaign in which he won the Michel-Brière Trophy as QMJHL MVP and the Jean-Béliveau Trophy as the league’s top scorer with 102 points, including a CHL co-leading 51 goals. Massé continued to drive the offence in the postseason, leading Chicoutimi with 24 points (6G-18A), while Mavrick Lachance, Nathan Lecompte, captain Emmanuel Vermette, Anaheim Ducks prospect Émile Guité, Washington Capitals prospect Maxim Schäfer, and 2026 NHL Draft prospect Liam Lefebvre helped give the Sags scoring depth throughout the lineup. Ranked No. 38 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Lefebvre finished the postseason with 12 points, including points in seven of his final 10 outings. On the back end, Nashville Predators prospect Alex Huang anchored a blue line strengthened by Utah Mammoth prospect Tomas Lavoie, Seattle Kraken prospect Alexis Bernier, and veteran Jordan Tourigny, while Ottawa Senators prospect Lucas Beckman was outstanding in goal, winning all 16 of Chicoutimi’s playoff victories with a 1.98 goals-against average and .918 save percentage. With seven NHL prospects across the roster and elite talent in every position group, the Saguenéens head to Kelowna looking to complete their first Memorial Cup championship run in franchise history. SCHEDULE Round-Robin – Game 1 – Friday, May 22 – Kitchener vs. Kelowna (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 2 – Saturday, May 23 – Everett vs. Chicoutimi (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 3 – Sunday, May 24 – Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 4 – Monday, May 25 – Everett vs. Kitchener (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 5 – Tuesday, May 26 – Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Round-Robin – Game 6 – Wednesday, May 27 – Kelowna vs. Everett (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Tie-Breaker (*if necessary) – Thursday, May 28 (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Semi-Final – Friday, May 29 (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) Championship Final – Sunday, May 31 (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT)

Rangers to Attend Send-off Rally May 19th at City Hall

Alyscia Warner — Fri, 15 May 2026 12:52:35 +0000

Rangers’ Sam O’Reilly Claims Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as OHL Playoff MVP

Alyscia Warner — Wed, 13 May 2026 17:36:29 +0000

Kitchener, ON – Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Sam O’Reilly of the Kitchener Rangers is this year’s recipient of the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Most Valuable Player of the OHL Playoffs. The award is determined by votes cast by accredited writers and broadcasters covering the Championship Series. O’Reilly potted an empty-net goal to seal a 4-2 final in Tuesday’s Game 4 at Sadlon Arena, giving him a club-leading 17 goals and 28 points over 18 playoff games. He won 57.7% of his faceoffs throughout the postseason and was integral in Kitchener producing an outstanding penalty kill that functioned at 88.7%. O’Reilly joins former London Knights teammate Easton Cowan (2024) in becoming a dual winner of the Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player and Wayne Gretzky 99 Award in the same season. O’Reilly is the third player in Rangers history to win the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award following Justin Azevedo (2008) and Derek Roy (2003). Wayne Gretzky 99 Award winners: 2026 – Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers) 2025 – Kasper Halttunen (London Knights) 2024 – Easton Cowan (London Knights) 2023 – Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) 2022 – Logan Morrison (Hamilton Bulldogs) 2019 – Nick Suzuki (Guelph Storm) 2018 – Robert Thomas (Hamilton Bulldogs) 2017 – Warren Foegele (Erie Otters) 2016 – Mitchell Marner (London Knights) 2015 – Connor McDavid (Erie Otters) 2014 – Robby Fabbri (Guelph Storm) 2013 – Bo Horvat (London Knights) 2012 – Austin Watson (London Knights) 2011 – Robby Mignardi (Owen Sound Attack) 2010 – Adam Henrique (Windsor Spitfires) 2009 – Taylor Hall (Windsor Spitfires) 2008 – Justin Azevedo (Kitchener Rangers) 2007 – Marc Staal (Sudbury Wolves) 2006 – Daniel Ryder (Peterborough Petes) 2005 – Corey Perry (London Knights) 2004 – Martin St. Pierre (Guelph Storm) 2003 – Derek Roy (Kitchener Rangers) 2002 – Brad Boyes (Erie Otters) 2001 – Seamus Kotyk (Ottawa 67’s) 2000 – Brian Finley (Barrie Colts) 1999 – Justin Papineau (Belleville Bulls)