J.P. Hurlbert’s Blazing Start Has Him Among CHL’s Elite
By Colton Davies – Follow Colton on X
J.P. Hurlbert didn’t arrive in Kamloops expecting to lead the CHL in scoring, but three months into his junior hockey career, that’s exactly where he finds himself.
The 17-year-old has electrified the Blazers’ lineup, sitting atop the entire CHL in points with 21 goals and 29 assists for 50 points in just 29 games. This also includes three WHL weekly star awards and two Rookie of the Month awards.
For Hurlbert, though, the numbers are just background noise. “It’s hard not to see it,” he admitted. “You’re kind of aware of it, but I try not to put my mind on it or focus on it. My focus is on winning and trying to make a push for the playoffs.”
The push has been real, with the Blazers getting a few much-needed statement wins throughout the month of November, steering the team in the right direction. And for Hurlbert, the reason behind the turnaround is simple. “I think we’re just coming together really well, offensively and defensively,” he said. “We’re finding seams, getting pucks on net, and it’s working. The more goals you score, the more games you win. That’s been our game lately.”
One central division NHL scout noted Hurlbert as the catalyst for the Blazers, “This Kamloops team has been waiting for another Stankoven-calibre player, and they got him.” That’s not hyperbole. That’s not fan fiction. That’s an NHL scout declaring the arrival of the next big thing.
Hurlbert recently played in the CHL vs USNTDP prospects game in Calgary, facing his former team and even scoring against them. “I’ve got lifelong friends there,” he said. “Guys I’ve played with since I was eight, including two guys I lived with last year, it was a lot of fun.”
Expectations around Hurlbert have skyrocketed since arriving in the WHL, but the rookie isn’t riding that wave mentally. Instead, he carries the same quiet confidence he brought with him on Day 1. “I don’t think anyone expected this going in,” Hurlbert said. “But I’ve always had confidence in myself. It’s just taking it day by day.”
The Allen, Texas native has become an instant favourite among Blazers fans. That atmosphere at the Sandman Centre has become a meaningful part of his first season in the WHL. “It’s tremendous,” Hurlbert said. “It feels like the building is packed every night. The fans care so much.”
Hurlbert’s game is stitched together with influence from other players, specifically, Stanley Cup champion and former Kootenay Ice forward Sam Reinhart. “He’s just a really smart player,” Hurlbert said. “He knows how to get open, create time and space, uses deception, and has such a tremendous shot. He’s an offensive threat every shift.”
If one thing is for certain, Hurlbert has given the Blazers an electric weapon, a composed presence and an elite talent capable of dictating games. Yet, despite the spotlight, he’s extremely humble. “It’s exciting to have this much success,” Hurlbert said. “But I’m just looking forward to having it continue for the team and me.”
As the Blazers keep climbing, Hurlbert isn’t just adjusting to the WHL; he’s taking it over completely.
