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WHL announces finalists for Four Broncos Memorial Trophy

Tim O'Donovan — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:40:19 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – The Western Hockey League announced today the 2025-26 finalists for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the WHL’s Player of the Year.

The most prestigious individual award in the WHL, the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy is named in memory of the four members of the Swift Current Broncos who died in a tragic bus crash December 30, 1986. Trent Kresse, Scott Kruger, Chris Mantyka, and Brent Ruff all died when the Broncos bus crashed while en route to a game in Regina.

Finalists for WHL Awards are voted upon by WHL General Managers.

Winners of 2026 WHL Awards will be announced from Tuesday, April 21, through Wednesday, May 6.

Four Broncos Memorial Trophy – Eastern Conference Finalists

Bryce Pickford, Medicine Hat Tigers Liam Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers Markus Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers

Four Broncos Memorial Trophy – Western Conference Finalists

JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers Tij Iginla, Kelowna Rockets Cameron Schmidt, Seattle Thunderbirds

Bryce Pickford, Medicine Hat Tigers

The 19-year-old product of Chauvin, Alta., had a breakout campaign, registering 45 goals, 83 points, and a plus-55 rating in 55 games as captain of the Tigers. The 6-foot-1, 186-pound right-shot blueliner’s 45 goals were tied for second in the WHL, while his 83 points finished second among all WHL defencemen. With 11 game-winning goals, the smooth-skating defender finished tied for first in among all WHL skaters. Pickford’s 45 goals set a Medicine Hat Tigers franchise record for goals by a defenceman, surpassing the previous mark of 32 set by Kris Russell in 2006-07. A two-time WHL Champion (Seattle – 2023; Medicine Hat – 2025), Pickford was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round (81st overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft. Originally selected by the Seattle Thunderbirds in the second round (38th overall) of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft, Pickford has played 224 career WHL regular season games, tallying 165 points (73G-92A).

Liam Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers

The 18-year-old product of Osoyoos, B.C., finished second in WHL scoring with 104 points (45G-59A) in 68 games. The 6-foot, 175-pound right winger’s 45 goals were tied for second in the WHL, while his 59 assists ranked fifth across the League. Ruck’s 16 power-play goals were tied for third best in the WHL, and his 10 game-winning goals were also tied for third in the League. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Ruck is ranked 26th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In November, he was selected to represent Team CHL at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. He followed that in February by being named to Team East for the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected by the Tigers in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Ruck has skated in 132 career WHL regular season games, recording 147 points (71G-76A). Ruck was a member of the Tigers 2025 WHL Championship.

Markus Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers

The 18-year-old product of Osoyoos, B.C., and twin brother of Liam, finished first in WHL scoring with 108 points (21G-87A) in 68 games. The 6-foot, 167-pound centre’s 87 assists were tops in the WHL this season, leading the next best skater by 21. Ruck’s 38 power-play assists were best in the WHL. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Ruck is ranked 31st among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In February, he was selected to represent Team East for the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected by the Tigers in the first round (21st overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Ruck has played in 132 career WHL regular season games, tallying 137 points (29G-108A). Ruck was a member of the Tigers 2025 WHL Championship.

JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers

The 17-year-old product of Allen, Texas, exploded onto the WHL as a rookie, posting 97 points (42G-55A) in 68 games with the Blazers. Hurlbert’s 97 points were fourth in the WHL, while his 42 goals were tied for fourth. He led all WHL rookies in scoring. The 6-foot, 182-pound right winger served as an alternate captain for the Blazers in his first WHL season. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Hurlbert is ranked 10th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. The first-year WHL forward was named to Team CHL for the CHL USA Prospects Challenge in November, before representing Team West in the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. He was originally selected by the Blazers in the first round (20th overall) of the 2023 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.

Tij Iginla, Kelowna Rockets

The 19-year-old product of Lake Country, B.C., returned following an injury-shortened 2024-25 season to lead the WHL in points per game (1.88), registering 90 points (41G-49A) in 48 games with the Rockets. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound centre established new career highs in both assists and points, best his previous marks from 2023-24 when he tallied 37 assists and 84 points in 64 games. Iginla finished sixth in both goals and points among all WHL skaters. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Iginla has played 184 career WHL regular season games, posting 225 points (108G-117A). Prior to arriving in Kelowna, he was a member of Seattle’s 2023 WHL Championship squad. Iginla was originally selected by the Thunderbirds in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft.

Cameron Schmidt, Seattle Thunderbirds

The 19-year-old product of Prince George, B.C., finished third in WHL scoring with 100 points. He was one of only three WHL players to reach the 100-point plateau and was the lone WHL player to register 50 goals in 2025-26. Having split the season between the Vancouver Giants and Thunderbirds, the 5-foot-8, 158-pound right winger finished tied for first in the WHL with 11 game-winning goals. Selected by the Dallas Stars in the third round (94th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, Schmidt has collected 237 points (123G-114A) in 195 career WHL regular season games. Schmidt was originally selected by the Giants in the first round (seventh overall) of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft.

About the Western Hockey League

Regarded as the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players, the Western Hockey League (WHL) head office is based in Calgary, Alberta. The WHL consists of 23 member Clubs with 17 located in Western Canada and six in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. A member of the Canadian Hockey League, the WHL has been a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League for over 50 years. The WHL is also the leading provider of hockey scholarships with over 375 graduates each year receiving WHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice. Each season, WHL players also form the nucleus of Canada’s National Junior Hockey Team.

2026 Player Tracker: WHL to AHL

Tim O'Donovan — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:39:36 +0000

As WHL seasons wrap up, NHL prospects and WHL free agents can be invited to compete with professional hockey clubs in the American Hockey League via assignment from their NHL teams or by signing Amateur Tryout Agreements (ATOs). The WHL will keep track of these opportunities until the conclusion of the AHL season.

BRANDON WHEAT KINGS F- Luke Mistelbacher- Belleville Senators- ATO* KAMLOOPS BLAZERS D- Harrison Brunicke- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins- Reassigned F- Tommy Lafreniere- Bakersfield Condors- ATO MOOSE JAW WARRIORS G- Chase Wutzke- Iowa Wild- Reassigned PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS F- Ryan Miller- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins- ATO SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS D- Radim Mrtka- Rochester Americans- Reassigned TRI-CITY AMERICANS D- Charlie Elick- Cleveland Monsters- Reassigned *Mistelbacher signed an AHL contract that will take effect at the start of the 2026-27 season

Four WHL alumni among those ranked No. 50 through No. 41 on CHL Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list

Tim O'Donovan — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:38:34 +0000

The Top 50 players were identified through a media vote, with the final rankings determined by a weighted combination of media and fan voting. Full player bios are available at chl.ca/chl50.

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to reveal the players ranked No. 50 through No. 41 on its Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list (see below), a signature initiative launched as part of the CHL’s 50th anniversary season. The countdown celebrates the greatest players from the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) since 1975-76, honouring the stars who have shaped major junior hockey over the past five decades. Four WHL alumni find themselves ranked from 50 to 41 on the CHL's Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years, including Brian Propp (47), Mark Recchi (45), Cam Neely (43), and Leon Draisaitl (42). As part of the initiative, a panel of media members first identified the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years (since 1975-76). From there, the final ranking order was determined using a weighted formula that combined media and fan voting to rank the players from No. 1 through No. 50. KEY FACTS & MEDIA NOTES: CHL TOP 50 PLAYERS MEDIA RESOURCES (PHOTOS, LOGOS, VIDEOS & MORE) 50. Larry Murphy, Defenceman | OHL | Peterborough Petes (1978-80) | Los Angeles Kings, Washington Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs & Detroit Red Wings (1980-2001): Murphy helped Peterborough win the 1979 Memorial Cup before breaking out for 89 points in 1979-80, earning OHL Defenceman of the Year and OHL First All-Star Team honours. He added 17 points in 14 playoff games as the Petes repeated as OHL champions in 1980. Murphy went on to a Hall of Fame NHL career, winning four Stanley Cups and recording 1,216 points in 1,615 games. 49. Scott Stevens, Defenceman | OHL | Kitchener Rangers (1980-82) | Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues & New Jersey Devils (1982-2004): Stevens starred on Kitchener’s 1982 championship team, collecting 42 points in 68 games and 11 more in 15 playoff contests while helping the Rangers win both the OHL title and the franchise’s first Memorial Cup. He later became a Hall of Fame NHL defenceman, captaining the New Jersey Devils to three Stanley Cups and winning the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2000. 48. Taylor Hall, Forward | OHL | Windsor Spitfires (2007-10) | Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Arizona Coyotes, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks & Carolina Hurricanes (2010-Present): Hall led Windsor through one of the most dominant runs in CHL history, winning OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year in 2007-08 before helping the Spitfires capture back-to-back Memorial Cups. He won the Stafford Smythe Trophy (Memorial Cup MVP) twice, the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award (OHL Playoffs MVP) in 2009, and later captured the Hart Trophy as NHL MVP in 2017-18. 47. Brian Propp, Forward | WHL | Brandon Wheat Kings (1976-79) | Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars & Hartford Whalers (1979-94):One of the WHL’s all-time great scorers, Propp recorded 511 points in 213 regular-season games, won back-to-back WHL scoring titles, and led Brandon to its first WHL championship in 1978-79. He went on to score 425 goals and 1,004 points in the NHL, appearing in five Stanley Cup Finals. 46. Steven Stamkos, Forward | OHL | Sarnia Sting (2006-08) | Tampa Bay Lightning & Nashville Predators (2008-Present): Stamkos scored 100 goals and 197 points in just two OHL seasons, winning the Bobby Smith Trophy in 2006-07 and CHL Top Prospect honours in 2007-08 after a 58-goal campaign. The first overall pick in 2008, he later became a two-time Stanley Cup champion, two-time NHL goal-scoring leader, and 600-goal scorer. 45. Mark Recchi, Forward | WHL | New Westminster Bruins & Kamloops Blazers (1984-88) | Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Tampa Bay Lightning & Boston Bruins (1988-2011): Recchi’s WHL career peaked with a 154-point season in 1987-88 with Kamloops, and he finished junior with 292 regular-season points and 50 playoff points. He later built a Hall of Fame career in the NHL, recording 1,533 points and winning three Stanley Cups with three different teams. 44. Guy Carbonneau, Forward | QMJHL | Chicoutimi Saguenéens (1976-80) | Montréal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues & Dallas Stars (1980-2000): Carbonneau was a cornerstone in Chicoutimi, recording 435 points in 274 games, posting back-to-back seasons with 140-plus points, and captaining the Saguenéens. He later became one of the NHL’s premier defensive forwards, winning three Selke Trophies, three Stanley Cups, and a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame. 43. Cam Neely, Forward | WHL | Portland Winterhawks (1982-84) | Vancouver Canucks & Boston Bruins (1983-96): Neely burst onto the WHL scene with 56 goals and 120 points as a rookie in 1982-83, then helped Portland win the 1983 Memorial Cup with a hat trick in the final. He went on to a Hall of Fame NHL career, scoring 395 goals and becoming one of the era’s most feared power forwards. 42. Leon Draisaitl, Forward | WHL | Prince Albert Raiders & Kelowna Rockets (2012-15) | Edmonton Oilers (2015-Present): Draisaitl totaled 216 points in 160 WHL regular-season games, highlighted by a 105-point season in Prince Albert and a standout 2015 playoff run with Kelowna that ended with WHL Playoff MVP and Memorial Cup MVP honours. In the NHL, he became one of the league’s top offensive stars, winning the Hart, Art Ross, Ted Lindsay, and Rocket Richard trophies. 41. Patrice Bergeron, Forward | QMJHL | Acadie-Bathurst Titan (2001-03) | Boston Bruins (2003-2023): Bergeron played just one full season in Acadie-Bathurst, but made it count, setting Titan rookie records with 73 points and 50 assists in 2002-03 and tying the QMJHL rookie record for points in a playoff game with six. He later spent 19 seasons with the Boston Bruins, winning a record six Selke Trophies, a Stanley Cup, and surpassing 1,000 points with the franchise. Further rankings from the Top 50 Players of the Last 50 Years list will be revealed in the coming weeks. CHL Top 50 Evaluation Criteria and Eligibility The CHL’s Top 50 Players were selected by a panel of more than 40 media members who submitted ranked 1–50 ballots guided by a weighted evaluation framework designed to ensure consistency across eras. Panelists considered a player’s impact beyond the CHL — including NHL and international success, major awards and championships, and Hall of Fame recognition — alongside on-ice achievement in the Member Leagues, reflecting what players accomplished during their time in the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL through production, individual honours, team success, and sustained dominance. Selections also accounted for historical significance, recognizing milestones, era-defining influence, generational impact, and lasting contributions to CHL history. To be eligible, players must have competed in at least one full season in the WHL, OHL, or QMJHL during the CHL’s 50-year history beginning in 1975–76; for players who competed in 1975–76 and also played prior to that season, their entire CHL career was considered when evaluating on-ice accomplishments.

JP Hurlbert Reflects on Breakout WHL Season in Kamloops

Tim O'Donovan — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:56:50 +0000

By Colton Davies - Follow Colton on X For JP Hurlbert, one season in the WHL was all it took to leave a lasting impression. In a season that saw the Allen, Texas native tally 97 points and elevate his draft stock, it wasn’t just about the production that defined his season in Kamloops. It was the growth, grind, and relationships built along the way. “I’ve learned so much,” Hurlbert said. “Just the game in general. This coaching staff has done such a great job teaching us the right way to play, finding those little details that create more success and more offence, especially for my style.” Hurlbert joined the Blazers last fall after defecting from the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP). Adjusting to the WHL presents a unique challenge, particularly for players stepping into a league filled with older, more physically mature players. For Hurlbert, that adjustment became a key part of his development. “Learning how to use your body has been big,” he explained. “You look at guys like Tij Iginla, I think he’s an NHL-ready calibre player. So it’s about learning how to deal with that and elevate your game each night.” Beyond the physicality, the WHL’s demanding schedule offered another layer of growth. The grind of back-to-backs and long road trips forced Hurlbert to adapt quickly to a pro-style routine. “It’s a pro schedule,” he said. “You’ve got to learn how to maintain your body and your mindset. You might go two games without scoring, but you still have to show up and perform on a Tuesday night. That consistency is huge.” While his point totals tell the story of a breakout campaign, Hurlbert’s favourite memories extend far beyond the scoresheet. “The home opener was really cool. Fan appreciation night, too,” he said. “Those were special nights—not just because of the goals, but because of how they felt.” Hurlbert’s WHL debut couldn’t have been scripted better, “First regular season game in a new town… that’s something you never forget,” he said. “And getting a hat trick in my first game made it even more special.” Still, it’s the quieter, off-ice moments that left the deepest mark. “The things I’ll cherish most aren’t just on the ice,” Hurlbert said. “It’s getting off the bus at 4 in the morning with my best friends. I still talk to Ryan Michael to this day—my first day here, after 36 hours in the car, we went and played pickleball. It’s the friendships, the camaraderie, that’s what stays with you forever.” As he looks ahead to what’s next, Hurlbert is keeping his focus on the present, like getting ready for the 2026 NHL Draft in June, while carrying forward everything he’s gained from this past year. “This year has been life-changing,” he said. “I’ve made my best friends here, met people who care about me so much, and this staff has given me everything to succeed.”

WHL announces finalists for Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy

Tim O'Donovan — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:14:54 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – The Western Hockey League announced today the 2025-26 finalists for the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the WHL’s Rookie of the Year.

Jim Piggott was the sole owner of the Saskatoon Blades and an original founding member of the WHL. Piggott served as Chairman of the Board, and along with Del Wilson, was one of the driving forces to bring the three Major Junior Leagues in Canada together under one roof.

Finalists for WHL Awards are voted upon by WHL General Managers.

Winners of 2026 WHL Awards will be announced from Tuesday, April 21, through Wednesday, May 6.

Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy – Eastern Conference Finalists

Kale Dach, Calgary Hitmen (Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.) Ben MacBeath, Calgary Hitmen (Calgary, Alta.) Brock Cripps, Prince Albert Raiders (Victoria, B.C.)

Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy – Western Conference Finalists

JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers (Allen, Texas) Matias Vanhanen, Everett Silvertips (Nokia, Finland) Jacob Kvasnicka, Penticton Vees (Burnsville, Minn.)

Kale Dach, Calgary Hitmen

The 19-year-old product of Fort Saskatchewan, Sask., recorded 75 points (34G-41A) in 63 games, finishing second in Hitmen scoring and fourth among all WHL rookies. Selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the seventh round (201st overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, the 5-foot-10, 165-pound Dach recorded six multi-goal performances, including one hat trick during the regular season. Among WHL rookies, he finished third in goals (34) and sixth in assists (41). He led all WHL rookies with 32 power-play points. Dach’s eight game-winning goals were tops among all WHL rookies. Dach was originally selected by the Hitmen in the fifth round (95th overall) of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft.

Ben MacBeath, Calgary Hitmen

The 17-year-old product of Calgary, Alta., tallied 51 points (7G-44A) in 67 games, finishing fifth in scoring on the Hitmen and second among all WHL rookie defencemen. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 181-pound MacBeath is ranked 20th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. The first-year WHL blueliner represented Team East at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. MacBeath was originally selected by the Kelowna Rockets in the seventh round (136th overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft.

Brock Cripps, Prince Albert Raiders

The 16-year-old product of Victoria, B.C., registered 37 points (6G-31A) in 62 games, finishing third in scoring among Raiders defencemen and third among all Raiders rookies. The 5-foot-10, 160-pound right-shot rearguard enjoyed a career performance Tuesday, January 20, when he tallied four assists in a 12-2 triumph over his hometown Victoria Royals. From December 3-19, Cripps put together a career best point string of nine games, collecting 10 points (1G-9A) along the way. Originally selected by the Raiders in the first round (second overall) of the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft, Cripps made his WHL debut in 2024-25, skating in four games.

JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers

The 17-year-old product of Allen, Texas, posted 97 points (42G-55A) in 68 games, finishing fourth in WHL scoring and first among all WHL rookies. The 6-foot, 182-pound right winger’s 42 goals were tied for fourth in the WHL and first among all WHL rookies. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Hurlbert is ranked 10th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. The first-year WHL forward represented Team CHL at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge, as well as Team West at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Hurlbert was originally selected by the Blazers in the first round (20th overall) of the 2023 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.

Matias Vanhanen, Everett Silvertips

The 18-year-old product of Nokia, Finland, notched 87 points (21G-66A) in 62 games to lead the Silvertips in scoring as a rookie. His 66 helpers were second best among all WHL players. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound left winger is ranked 76th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Vanhanen represented Team West at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. He was originally selected by the Silvertips in the first round (31st overall) of the 2025 CHL Import Draft.

Jacob Kvasnicka, Penticton Vees

The 18-year-old product of Burnsville, Minn., finished the campaign with 85 points (35G-50A) to lead the Vees in scoring. The 5-foot-11, 170-pound right winger logged 25 multi-point outings, including a career high four points on two occasions (October 4; January 10). Kvasnicka finished tied atop the WHL charts with four shorthanded goals. Selected by the New York Islanders in the seventh round (202nd overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, Kvasnicka was acquired by the Vees this summer. He was originally selected by the Winnipeg ICE in the second round (34th overall) of the 2022 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.

About the Western Hockey League

BLAZERS HOST GAME 4 AGAINST ROCKETS

Tim O'Donovan — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:51:10 +0000

The Kamloops Blazers are home for Game 4 tonight against the Kelowna Rockets at 7:00pm at the Sandman Centre. TICKETS GAME PREVIEW

WHL names First All-Star Teams for 2025-26

Tim O'Donovan — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:32:44 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – The Western Hockey League announced today the First All-Star Teams for the 2025-26 WHL season.

WHL Conference All-Star Teams are voted upon by WHL General Managers.

WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team

Goaltender – Michal Orsulak, Prince Albert Raiders Defence – Bryce Pickford, Medicine Hat Tigers Defence – Daxon Rudolph, Prince Albert Raiders Forward – Liam Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers Forward – Markus Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers Forward – Luke Mistelbacher, Brandon Wheat Kings

WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team

Goaltender – Joshua Ravensbergen, Prince George Cougars Defence – Landon DuPont, Everett Silvertips Defence – Carson Carels, Prince George Cougars Forward – Tij Iginla, Kelowna Rockets Forward – JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers Forward – Cameron Schmidt, Seattle Thunderbirds

WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team Biographies

Goaltender – Michal Orsulak, Prince Albert Raiders

The 18-year-old product of Tremosna, Czechia, enjoyed an outstanding rookie campaign in the WHL, going 28-4-3-1 with a 2.22 goals-against average, .907 save percentage, and four shutouts. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-4, 220-pound puckstopper is ranked second among North American goaltenders in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. Among qualified WHL goaltenders, Orsulak ranked first in goals-against average, tied for second in shutouts, fifth in save percentage, and fifth in wins. In February, Orsulak represented Team East at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. The first-year WHL goaltender was selected by the Raiders in the first round (46th overall) of the 2025 CHL Import Draft.

Defence – Bryce Pickford, Medicine Hat Tigers

Defence – Daxon Rudolph, Prince Albert Raiders

The 18-year-old product of Lacombe, Alta., posted incredible numbers in his NHL Draft season, including 28 goals and 78 points, along with a plus-32 rating for the East Division champion Raiders. Rudolph’s 28 goals and 78 points both finished third among all WHL defencemen. The 6-foot-2, 202-pound right-shot blueliner tied a Raiders franchise record for goals by a defenceman, matching the mark established by Josh Morrissey in 2013-14. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Rudolph is ranked sixth among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In November, Rudolph was selected to represent Team CHL at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. He followed that up in February by captaining Team East at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected first overall by the Raiders in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Rudolph has played 132 career WHL regular season games, tallying 119 points (35G-84A).

Forward – Liam Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers

The 18-year-old product of Osoyoos, B.C., finished second in WHL scoring with 104 points (45G-59A) in 68 games. The 6-foot, 175-pound right winger’s 45 goals were tied for second in the WHL, while his 59 assists ranked fifth across the League. Ruck’s 16 power-play goals were tied for third best in the WHL, and his 10 game-winning goals were also tied for third in the League. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Ruck is ranked 26th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In November, he was selected to represent Team CHL at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. He followed that in February by being named to Team East for the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected by the Tigers in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Ruck has skated in 132 career WHL regular season games, recording 147 points (71G-76A). A member of the Tigers 2025 WHL Championship, he has played 21 career WHL Playoff games, tallying 12 points (6G-6A).

Forward – Markus Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers

The 18-year-old product of Osoyoos, B.C., and twin brother of Liam, finished first in WHL scoring with 108 points (21G-87A) in 68 games. The 6-foot, 167-pound centre’s 87 assists were tops in the WHL this season, leading the next best skater by 21. Ruck’s 38 power-play assists were best in the WHL. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Ruck is ranked 31st among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In February, he was selected to represent Team East for the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected by the Tigers in the first round (21st overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Ruck has played in 132 career WHL regular season games, tallying 137 points (29G-108A). A member of the Tigers 2025 WHL Championship, he has played 16 career WHL Playoff games, registering seven points (2G-5A).

WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team Biographies

Goaltender – Joshua Ravensbergen, Prince George Cougars

The 19-year-old product of North Vancouver, B.C., posted his third straight season with 25 or more wins, going 32-13-0-0 with a 2.51 goals-against average, .919 save percentage, and four shutouts. Among qualified WHL netminders, the 6-foot-6, 195-pound puckstopper ranked first in wins, first in save percentage, tied for second in shutouts, and fourth in goals-against average. Selected by the San Jose Sharks in the first round (30th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, Ravensbergen has played 135 career WHL regular season games, going 91-30-4-2 with a 2.68 GAA, .909 SV%, and 10 shutouts. He was undrafted into the WHL. In 22 career WHL Playoff games, Ravensbergen is 14-7 with a 2.55 GAA, .918 SV%, and three shutouts.

Defence – Landon DuPont, Everett Silvertips

The 16-year-old product of Calgary, Alta., registered career highs in all major offensive categories, including 18 goals, 55 assists, 73 points, and a plus-59 rating in 63 games this season. DuPont’s 73 points were tied for fourth among all WHL rearguards, while his 55 assists were tied for second. The 5-foot-11, 183-pound right-shot blueliner took home the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy as WHL Rookie of the Year in 2024-25 having entered the WHL at 15 years old after being granted Exceptional Player Status by Hockey Canada. DuPont tallied 28 power-play assists in 2025-26, good enough for second in the entire WHL. Eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft, DuPont has played 127 career WHL regular season games, collecting 133 points (35G-98A) and a plus-90 rating. He was selected by the Silvertips with the first overall pick in the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft.

Defence – Carson Carels, Prince George Cougars

The 17-year-old product of Cypress River, Man., emerged as a dominant force in 2025-26, recording 73 points (20G-53A) in 58 games. Carels’ 73 points tied for fourth among WHL blueliners, while he was one of only six rearguards to reach the 20-goal plateau. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-1, 175-pound left-shot Carels is ranked third among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings. In November, he was selected to represent Team CHL in the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. Come February, Carels was named captain of Team West for the 2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass. Originally selected by the Cougars in the first round (16th overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Carels has played 125 career WHL regular season games, securing 111 points (26G-85A). In eight career WHL Playoff games, he has notched four points (1G-3A).

Forward – Tij Iginla, Kelowna Rockets

The 19-year-old product of Lake Country, B.C., returned following an injury-shortened 2024-25 season to lead the WHL in points per game (1.88), registering 90 points (41G-49A) in 48 games with the Rockets. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound centre established new career highs in both assists and points, best his previous marks from 2023-24 when he tallied 37 assists and 84 points in 64 games. Iginla finished sixth in both goals and points among all WHL skaters. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Iginla has played 184 career WHL regular season games, posting 225 points (108G-117A). Prior to arriving in Kelowna, he was a member of Seattle’s 2023 WHL Championship squad. Originally selected by the Thunderbirds in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft, Iginla has appeared in 16 career WHL Playoff games, scoring 21 points (12G-9A).

Forward – JP Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers

Forward – Cameron Schmidt, Seattle Thunderbirds

The 19-year-old product of Prince George, B.C., finished third in WHL scoring with 100 points. He was one of only three WHL players to reach the 100-point plateau and was the lone WHL player to register 50 goals in 2025-26. Having split the season between the Vancouver Giants and Thunderbirds, the 5-foot-8, 158-pound right winger finished tied for first in the WHL with 11 game-winning goals. Selected by the Dallas Stars in the third round (94th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft, Schmidt has collected 237 points (123G-114A) in 195 career WHL regular season games. He has also dressed in 12 career WHL Playoff games, posting 12 points (6G-6A). Schmidt was originally selected by the Giants in the first round (seventh overall) of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft.

About the Western Hockey League

BLAZERS HOST ROCKETS FOR GAME 3 TONIGHT

Tim O'Donovan — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:53:35 +0000

The Kamloops Blazers host the Kelowna Rockets at 7:00pm at the Sandman Centre for Game 3 of their playoff series. TICKETS GAME PREVIEW

Blazers’ Harrison Brunicke Emphasizes Composure Over Chaos Ahead of WHL Playoffs

Tim O'Donovan — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:02:25 +0000

By Colton Davies - Follow Colton on X The stage is set as the Kamloops Blazers will open up the first round of the WHL Playoffs against the Kelowna Rockets on Friday. As the team prepares for the opening round, veteran defencemen Harrison Brunicke is drawing on his previous playoff experience in 2022-23 to lead a younger Blazers squad. Since returning from the Pittsburgh Penguins in January, Brunicke has provided a massive pro-calibre boost to the blueline. He tallied 24 points in 24 games. The Penguins' 2024 second-round pick has been utilized in a crucial shutdown capacity, often logging more than 23 minutes per night. Now he and the rest of the locker room gear up for a playoff matchup against Kelowna. “We feel pretty good,” said Brunicke. “We’ve talked about kind of embracing that underdog role a little bit. They’re a good team with some key players, but for us, it’s just about being ready to go for Game 1.” For Brunicke, this postseason carries a different weight than the one in 2023. He and Captain Ryan Michael have switched from young observers to veteran leaders. “Last time, we were younger guys, so we didn’t really get the full experience,” Brunicke explained. “This year, it’s different. We’re kind of trusted more and looked upon in those situations.” That added responsibility includes helping a younger Blazers core navigate the emotional swings that come with playoff hockey, something Brunicke believes can make or break a series early. “It’s a lot more emotional and a lot more physical,” he said. “You’ve got to come in ready to play right away, but at the same time not overthink it and just play your game.” That message becomes even more important against a Kelowna team known for its physical edge and ability to drag opponents into scrums after the whistle. “They’re aggressive, a little chippy, they’ve got some grease in their game,” Brunicke said. “We just have to be ready for that, but also be smart about it.” In a rivalry matchup where emotions can quickly boil over, discipline could ultimately be the deciding factor. “They’re going to try and pull us into scrums and things like that to get us away from our game,” he added. “So for us, it’s about sticking to our structure and just coming ready to play.” It’s a simple formula, but one that reflects a team intent on dictating its identity rather than reacting to the chaos of playoff hockey. For Brunicke and the Blazers, that mindset could be the difference.

SERIES PREVIEW: (5) Kamloops Blazers vs. (4) Kelowna Rockets

Tim O'Donovan — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:12:18 +0000

What a way to return to the playoffs. The Kelowna Rockets and Kamloops Blazers are back in the battle for the Ed Chynoweth Cup- but to have a shot at the WHL's top prize, the teams have to go through their bitterest rival. The 2026 Memorial Cup host Rockets return to the postseason after a one-season absence. While injuries and a new look roster have led to some up-and-down stretches, the Rockets have found their footing with a 21-8-3-2 record since January 1 to claim home ice in Round One. Kamloops is playing spring hockey for the first time since hosting the Memorial Cup back in 2023. The Western Conference 4 vs. 5 matchup features two of the league's most dynamic forwards. Utah Mammoth 2024 sixth-overall pick Tij Iginla ripped it up for 90 points (41G-49A) in just 48 games to lead the Rockets in scoring and sit first among all WHL skaters in points-per-game with 1.88. He's eager to hoist the Ed Chynoweth Cup for a second time after clinching the title with the Seattle Thunderbirds in 2023. On the flip side, Allen, Texas's JP Hurlbert has piled up 97 points (42G-55A) in 68 games while competing at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge and 2026 WHL Prospects Game. NHL Central Scouting has ranked the 17-year-old 10th among all North American skaters in its midterm rankings for the 2026 NHL Draft. Kelowna has been busy building a formidable roster that includes Captain and San Jose Sharks prospect Carson Wetsch, New York Islanders pick Tomas Poletin, Humanitarian of the Year finalist Shane Smith, veteran Ty Halaburda and Nashville Predators prospect Hiroki Gojsic. The Rockets also made an ogopogo-sized splash by bringing in Los Angeles Kings pick and World Juniors MVP Vojtech Cihar. For all that buzz, the Blazers actually boast more goals as a team. Three of the WHL's top goal-scorers play for Kamloops, with Hurlbert flanked by Edmonton Oilers prospect Tommy Lafreniere (38 goals) and Chicago Blackhawks pick Nathan Behm (38). Kamloops is one of three WHL teams to boast multiple 40-goal scorers. So will defence be the difference maker in Round One? See our X Factor section below for more on two potential difference makers in star Blazers blueliner Harrison Brunicke (who became the first South African skater to score in the NHL earlier this season) and 2025 Defenceman of the Year finalist Mazden Leslie. The bitter B.C. foes faced off for one of the most electric games in modern league history in the 2019 WHL Tiebreaker Game, which saw Kamloops steamroll Kelowna 5-1 to move on to the playoffs. Kelowna and Kamloops most recently clashed in the 2017 WHL Playoffs, where the Rockets moved on in six games to eventually advance to the Western Conference Championship. The best-of-seven smackdown gets going on Friday, March 27, at 7:05 p.m. PT at Prospera Place. The series will move north to Kamloops' Sandman Centre for Game 3 on Tuesday, March 31.

STAT PACK

	(5) Kamloops Blazers	(4) Kelowna Rockets
Record	31-24-7-6	38-21-6-3
Leading Scorers	JP Hurlbert (42G-55A, 97 pts) Nathan Behm (38G-48A, 86 pts) Tommy Lafreniere (41G-36A, 77 pts)	Tij Iginla (41G-49A, 90 pts) Carson Wetsch (22G-50A, 72 pts) Shane Smith (33G-35A, 68 pts)
Leading Goaltender	Logan Edmonstone (22-16-4-4, 3.14 GAA, .902 save percentage, four shutouts)	Harrison Boettiger (25-10-4-1, 2.83 GAA, .911 save percentage)
Powerplay	26.9% (7th)	23.1% (12th)
Penalty Kill	75.1% (15th)	79.8% (6th)
2024 WHL Playoffs	Did Not Qualify	Did Not Qualify
Last WHL Championship	1995	2014

2025-26 Regular Season Series: Kelowna leads 4-1-0-1 January 2, 2026- Kamloops 3, Kelowna 2 (SO) January 3, 2026- Kelowna 1, Kamloops 4 February 20, 2026- Kelowna 3, Kamloops 2 (OT) February 21, 2026- Kamloops 2, Kelowna 4 March 13, 2026- Kamloops 1, Kelowna 4 March 14, 2026- Kelowna 5, Kamloops 1 GAME BREAKERS Kamloops: It's got to be Jeffrey Paul himself. The 6-foot, 182-pound forward essentially didn't cede his place at the top of the WHL points race until March, but he went out of the season the way he came in- with a hat trick in his penultimate outing. Hurlbert was named WHL Player of the Month for September/October and earned Rookie of the Month honours twice (January, November) and is ranked 10th among all North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting in its midterm rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft. Hurlbert has terrorized nearly every team in the WHL in a splashy rookie season- but Kelowna isn't one of them. The Rockets have held Hurlbert to three assists in six games, but talent like Hurlbert's, it's not a matter of if he'll start scoring- it's when. Kelowna: Let the 'Iggy Iggy Woo Woos' rain down. After missing nearly a full season of hockey, you can bet the Rockets alternate captain is starving for a chance to play meaningful playoff hockey. Iginla was a force for the Rockets back in 2024, when he put up 15 points (9G-6A) in 11 games to reach the second round, and was one of Canada's top scorers at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound winger has also been unstoppable versus the Blazers in 2025-26. Kelowna is undefeated against their bitter rivals with Iginla in the lineup (Kamloops' two wins came while Iginla was at World Juniors) and Iginla leads all skaters in the regular season series with five goals and four assists for nine points. GOALTENDING Kamloops: Logan Edmonstone has handled the heaviest minutes of his WHL career beautifully. The Saskatoon, Sask. product is fresh off his first 20-plus win season and bracing for his first trip to the postseason. Edmonstone is 2-3-0-0 in the regular season against the Rockets, but his stats are actually slightly better than his season average, with a 2.96 GAA and a .914 save percentage. The 5-foot-11, 172-pound netminder has faced the second-most shots of any goalie heading to the playoffs (1,396) and he can expect plenty more in round one. Kelowna: This is the opportunity Harrison Boettiger dreamed of when he came north for his NHL Draft season. Despite a rocky start in the Okanagan (hello, emergency appendectomy), Boettiger has settled in with 25 wins through his rookie season. He's represented the Dub at the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge, suited up for Team West at the 2026 WHL Prospects Game, and he's been playing his best hockey of the year in the home stretch. Since January 1, 2026, Boettiger is 15-5-0-3 with a 2.64 GAA and a .918 save percentage (Edmonstone is right with him with a 14-8-0-2-1 record, 2.55 GAA, .918 save percentage and two shutouts). The Wheat Ridge, Col. product is 3-1-0-0 against the Blazers while averaging less than two goals against through those matches. X FACTOR Kamloops: Harrison Brunicke knows how to play high-stakes hockey. As a rookie, the South Africa-born, Alberta-raised defender broke into the league as the Blazers were preparing to host the 2023 Memorial Cup and ended up scoring a beauty against the OHL's Peterborough Petes while earning consistent minutes throughout the tournament. Brunicke brings veteran experience and lessons learned from his short stint in the NHL and lines up alongside Blazers Captain Ryan Michael. Kelowna: There's no one more well-seasoned than Mazden Leslie. The 2025 WHL Defenceman of the Year finalist is the WHL's active games played leader at a whopping 347 contests- and he's got 258 career points (75G-183A) to go along with it. On a Kelowna squad that's stacked with offensive talent, Leslie is still tied for third in points among all Rockets with 68. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound defender is tied with Tij Iginla for the most points of any player in the regular-season series between Kelowna and Kamloops with nine points (2G-7A) in six twirls. 2026 WHL PLAYOFFS SERIES SCHEDULE

Game	Visitor		Home	Day	Date	Time
1	Kamloops	@	Kelowna	Friday	March 27	7:05 p.m. PT
2	Kamloops	@	Kelowna	Saturday	March 28	6:05 p.m. PT
3	Kelowna	@	Kamloops	Tuesday	March 31	7 p.m. PT
4	Kelowna	@	Kamloops	Wednesday	April 1	7 p.m. PT
5*	Kamloops	@	Kelowna	Friday	April 3	7:05 p.m. PT
6*	Kelowna	@	Kamloops	Saturday	April 4	6 p.m. PT
7*	Kamloops	@	Kelowna	Tuesday	April 7	7:05 p.m. PT

* = if necessary