Vancouver Giants - Feed https://chl.ca/whl-giants/author/nakanter/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 22:56:58 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 Giants Rookies Holowaychuk & Mateychuk Invited to Hockey Canada U-17 Development Camp https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-rookies-holowaychuk-mateychuk-invited-to-hockey-canada-u-17-development-camp Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:00:42 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-rookies-holowaychuk-mateychuk-invited-to-hockey-canada-u-17-development-camp Calgary, Alta. – Vancouver Giants incoming rookies Louis-Oscar Holowaychuk and Crosby Mateychuk have both been invited to Hockey Canada's national under-17 development camp, which will take place July 17-21 at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville, Ontario. Holowaychuk and Mateychuk are two of 80 players invited to the summer camp. Participants will be split into four teams for the five-day camp, which includes two days of practice and six games from July 19-21. Following camp, players will continue to be evaluated through the beginning of the 2026-27 season before the Canada Red and Canada White rosters are named for the 2026 U17 World Challenge, scheduled for Nov. 1-7 in Oakville. CLICK FOR THE FULL U17 DEVELOPMENT CAMP ROSTERS “We are excited to unveil the top Canadian under-17 players who have earned invitations to our development camp this week, and to introduce these young players to Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence,” Program of Excellence (POE) general manager Alan Millar said. “This is a very talented and exciting group that will be surrounded by world-class coaching and support staffs, and we look forward to introducing them to our program, setting the expectations for the season and preparing for the U17 World Challenge later this year.” Holowaychuk was the Giants' first pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft, 6th overall. The right-shot centre made a seamless transition from U15 prep to U18 prep in the CSSHL this past season with St. George's School. He was named the top freshman and a first-team U18 Prep all-star after posting 23 goals and 44 points in 28 games. The Vancouver native finished fifth in goals and eighth in points-per-game among all U18 skaters, leading his team in both categories. He also added five goals and a pair of assists in five playoff games. The right-shot forward dressed in seven games with the Giants as a call-up this past season – making his WHL debut on December 6 – during which he tallied a pair of assists. Mateychuk was the Giants' second selection in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft, 13th overall. The left-shot blueliner was named a second-team all-star in his first U18 AAA season with the Eastman Selects in his home province of Manitoba, after producing 59 points in 37 games (24G-35A). While his 59 points were the third-most in the league by a defenceman, his 1.59 points-per-game ranked first. The Dominion City, Man. product also dressed in seven games with the Giants as a call-up, making his WHL debut on December 28. The Giants have had one player win Gold at the U17 World Challenge in three straight years: Blake Chorney in 2025, Ryan Lin in 2024 and Cameron Schmidt in 2023. Brett Olson won Silver in 2024 as well. For more information on Hockey Canada, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along through social media on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.]]> Giants Sign Goaltender Donovan Knapp to WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-sign-goaltender-donovan-knapp-to-whl-scholarship-development-agreement Thu, 09 Jul 2026 19:59:29 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-sign-goaltender-donovan-knapp-to-whl-scholarship-development-agreement Langley, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants are excited to announce the signing of 2011-born goaltender Donovan Knapp (Clearwater, MN) to a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Knapp, 15, was selected by the Giants with the 33rd overall pick in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft. The 6-foot-4, 180 lb. goaltender backstopped the 14U Little Caesars to a USA Hockey Tier I National Championship this past season, posting a perfect 5-0-0 record at Nationals with a 1.51 G.A.A. and .920 save percentage. “We’re excited to announce the signing of Donovan to a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement,” Giants Head Coach and General Manager Michael Dyck said. “Donovan is a competitive goaltender who battles hard, stays composed under pressure and gives his team a chance to win every time he’s in the net. He has a strong work ethic and has shown a real commitment to his development. We’re excited to welcome him to our organization and look forward to being a part of his continued growth both as a player and as a person.” According to USA Hockey’s website, Knapp went 24-2-1 during the 2025-26 season with a 1.46 goals-against average (G.A.A.) and eight shutouts. "I am incredibly excited and honoured to officially sign with the Vancouver Giants and begin the next chapter of my hockey career," Knapp said. “I want to sincerely thank the Giants organization for believing in me and giving me this opportunity, as well as my family, coaches, teammates and everyone who has supported me along the way. I’m grateful for everyone who has helped me reach this point and can’t wait to get to work and proudly represent the Giants. Here’s to the next chapter!” The Vancouver Giants extend a warm welcome to Donovan and the Knapp family. Knapp is guaranteed a WHL Scholarship for every year he plays in the WHL by signing a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.]]> Giants Flex Packs Now on Sale https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-flex-packs-now-on-sale Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:12:56 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-flex-packs-now-on-sale 2026 WHL Player Tracker: NHL Development Camps https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/2026-whl-player-tracker-nhl-development-camps Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:36:08 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/2026-whl-player-tracker-nhl-development-camps As any pro will tell you, it's not about where- or if- you're drafted; it's about what you do with the opportunity. With the book closed on the 2026 NHL Draft, prospects, minor professionals and free agents have received invitations to NHL development camps. This includes five current WHLers and two alumni selected in the first round in Buffalo. The player tracker will be updated as more teams release camp rosters and denotes the most recent WHL club the player has suited up for.
Anaheim Ducks F- Noah Kosick, Seattle Thunderbirds (2026- 6th round, 192nd overall) F- Roger McQueen, Brandon Wheat Kings (2025- 1st round, 10th overall) F- Mathis Preston, Vancouver Giants (2026- 2nd round, 60th overall) F- Brady Turko, Brandon Wheat Kings (2025- 7th round, 200th overall) D- Tarin Smith, Everett Silvertips (2024- 3rd round, 79th overall) Boston Bruins F- Jaxsin Vaughan, Everett Silvertips (camp invite) Buffalo Sabres D- Radim Mrtka, Seattle Thunderbirds (2025, 1st round, 9th overall)* D- Daxon Rudolph, Prince Albert Raiders (2026, 1st round, 4th overall) Calgary Flames F- Max Curran, Edmonton Oil Kings (2024, 5th round, 161st overall (COL)) F- Chase Harrington, Spokane Chiefs (2026, 2nd round, 36th overall) F- Joe Iginla, Vancouver Giants (2026, 3rd round, 65th overall) F- Brett Olson, Vancouver Giants (camp invite) F- Cole Reschny, Victoria Royals (2025, 1st round, 18th overall) D- Carson Carels, Prince George Cougars (2026, 1st round, 6th overall) D- Bode Laylin, Everett Silvertips (2026, 6th round, 164th)** Carolina Hurricanes F- Zach Lansard, Regina Pats (2026- 3rd round, 68th overall) Chicago Blackhawks F- Nathan Behm, Kamloops Blazers (2025- 3rd round, 66th overall) D- Ashton Cumby, Seattle Thunderbirds (2025- 6th round, 162nd overall) Colorado Avalanche F- Rilen Kovacevic, Prince Albert Raiders (camp invite) F- Beckett Hamilton, Red Deer Rebels (2026, 3rd round, 74th overall) D- Saige Weinstein, Spokane Chiefs (camp invite) D- Ethan Weber, Penticton Vees (camp invite) G- Tobias Tvrznik, Wenatchee Wild (2026, 4th round, 126th overall) Columbus Blue Jackets F- Cayden Lindstrom, Medicine Hat Tigers (2024, 1st round, fourth overall) D- Charlie Elick, Tri-City Americans (2024, 2nd round, 36th overall)* D- Jackson Smith, Tri-City Americans (2025, 1st round, 14th overall) D- Jonas Woo, Medicine Hat Tigers (2026, 6th round, 185th overall) G- Evan Gardner, Saskatoon Blades (2024, 2nd round, 60th overall)* G- Aiden Hesse, Calgary Hitmen (camp invite) G- Parker Snell, Edmonton Oil Kings (2026, 5th round, 142nd overall) Dallas Stars F- Kyle Chyzowski, Portland Winterhawks (camp invite) F- Josh Evaschesen, Kamloops Blazers (camp invite) F- Jaxon Fuder, Edmonton Oil Kings (free agent signing)* F- Brandon Gorzynski, Prince Albert Raiders (2025, 4th round, 126th overall) F- Carson Latimer, Red Deer Rebels (2021, 4th round, 123rd overall (OTT)) F- Cameron Schmidt, Victoria Royals (2025, 3rd round, 94th overall) D- Reese Hamilton, Regina Pats (camp invite) D- Keith McInnis, Kelowna Rockets (camp invite) D- Niilopekka Muhonen, Medicine Hat Tigers (2024- 5th round, 158th overall)* D- Jakub Vanecek, Tri-City Americans (2026, 2nd round, 59th overall) Detroit Red Wings F- Carter Bear, Everett Silvertips (2025, 1st round, 13th overall)* F- J.P. Hurlbert, Kamloops Blazers (2026, 1st round, 23rd overall) D- Justice Christensen, Prince Albert Raiders (signed by AHL Grand Rapids)* G- Michal Orsulak, Prince Albert (2026, 3rd round, 79th overall) Edmonton Oilers F- Tommy Lafreniere, Kamloops Blazers (2025, 3rd round, 83rd overall) F- David Lewandowski, Saskatoon Blades (2025, 4th round, 117th overall) F- Aidan Park, Calgary Hitmen (2025, 7th round, 223rd overall) G- Johnny Hicks, Victoria Royals (camp invite) G- Connor Ungar, Moose Jaw Warriors (free agent signing)* *Vancouver Giants draft pick Chloe Primerano is part of a trio of female skaters to earn camp invitations Florida Panthers F- Shea Busch, Everett Silvertips (2025- 4th round, 128th overall) D- Brendan Dunphy, Wenatchee Wild (2025- 7th round, 197th overall) D- Jonas Kemps, Seattle Thunderbirds (4th round, 98th overall)** Los Angeles Kings F- Louis Wehmann, Penticton Vees (camp invite) F- Vojtech Cihar, Kelowna Rockets (2025, 2nd round, 59th overall) D- Will Sharpe, Kelowna Rockets (2025, 7th round, 216th overall) D- Nate Corbet, Kelowna Rockets (camp invite) D- Giorgos Pantelas, Brandon Wheat Kings (2026, 5th round, 153rd overall) Minnesota Wild TBA Montreal Canadiens F- Tyler Deakos, Penticton Vees (2026, 7th round, 224th overall)** F- Hayden Paupanekis, Kelowna Rockets (2025, 3rd round, 69th overall) D- Brayden Klimpke, Saskatoon Blades (2026, 4th round, 117th overall) D- Bryce Pickford, Medicine Hat Tigers (2025, 3rd round, 81st overall)* D- Timofei Runtso, Victoria Royals (2026, 2nd round, 57th overall) D- Nolan Stevenson, Penticton Vees (camp invite) Nashville Predators F- Miguel Marques, Lethbridge Hurricanes (2024- 3rd round, 87th overall) F- Hiroki Gojsic, Kelowna Rockets (2024- 3rd round, 94th overall)* New Jersey Devils F- Matias Vanhanen, Everett Silvertips (2026, 2nd round, 37th overall) F- Luke Wilfley, Portland Winterhawks (2026, 6th round, 172nd overall) New York Islanders F- Jacob Kvasnicka, Penticton Vees (2025, 7th round, 202nd overall) F- Tomas Poletin, Kelowna Rockets (2025, 4th round, 106th overall) G- Daniel Hauser, Calgary Hitmen (camp invite) G- Burke Hood, Vancouver Giants (2025, 6th round, 170th overall) New York Rangers F- Dayne Beuker, Lethbridge Hurricanes (camp invite)** F- Kalder Varga, Red Deer Rebels (camp invite) D- Ben MacBeath, Calgary Hitmen (2026, 2nd round, 64th overall) Ottawa Senators F- Luke Mistelbacher, Brandon Wheat Kings (signed by AHL Belleville)* F- Blake Vanek, Calgary Hitmen (2025, 3rd round, 93rd overall) F- Shea Van Olm, Spokane Chiefs (camp invite) D- Carter Yakemchuk, Calgary Hitmen (2024, 1st round, seventh overall)* Philadelphia Flyers F- Sawyer Dingman, Swift Current Broncos (camp invite) F- Matthew Gard, Red Deer Rebels (2025, 2nd round, 57th overall) F- Kent (KJ) Sauer, Edmonton Oil Kings (2026, 5th round, 136th overall)** D- Brek Liske, Everett Silvertips (2026, 2nd round, 53rd overall) D- Riley Steen, Medicine Hat Tigers (camp invite) D- Luke Vlooswyk, Red Deer Rebels (2025, 5th round, 157th overall) G- Carson Bjarnason, Brandon Wheat Kings (2023, 2nd round, 51st overall)* G- Marek Sklenicka, Seattle Thunderbirds (2026, 4th round, 120th overall) Pittsburgh Penguins F- Kale Dach, Calgary Hitmen (2025, 7th round, 201st overall) F- Ryan Miller, Portland Winterhawks (2025, 5th round, 130th overall) F- Liam Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers (2026, 1st round, 22nd overall) F- Markus Ruck, Medicine Hat Tigers (2026, 2nd round, 39th overall) F- Carter Sanderson, Calgary Hitmen (2026, 6th round, 169th overall)** D- Bennett Kelly, Prince Albert Raiders (camp invite) D- Peyton Kettles, Kelowna Rockets (2025, 2nd round, 39th overall)* G- Carter Casey, Medicine Hat Tigers (camp invite) G- Xavier Wendt, Tri-City Americans (camp invite) San Jose Sharks F- Jake Gustafson, Portland Winterhawks (2026, 6th round, 174th overall) F- Max Heise, Prince Albert Raiders (2025, 5th round, 150th overall) F- Carson Wetsch, Kelowna Rockets (2024, 3rd round, 82nd overall)* D- Ryan Lin, Vancouver Giants (2026, 1st round, 21st overall) D- Nate Misskey, Victoria Royals (2024, 5th round, 143rd overall) D- Colton Roberts, Vancouver Giants (2024, 5th round, 131st overall) D- Keaton Verhoeff, Victoria Royals (2026, 1st round, 9th overall) G- Joshua Ravensbergen, Prince George Cougars (2024, 1st round, 30th overall) Seattle Kraken F- Clarke Caswell, Swift Current Broncos (2024, 5th round, 141st overall) F- Ryden Evers, Penticton Vees (signed agent signing)* F- Brody Gillespie, Spokane Chiefs (camp invite) F- Ollie Josephson, Red Deer Rebels (2024, 4th round, 105th overall)  D- Blake Fiddler, Edmonton Oil Kings (2025, 2nd round, 36th overall) St. Louis Blues F- Adam Jecho, Edmonton Oil Kings (2024, 3rd round, 95th overall)* Tampa Bay Lightning F- Carlin DeZainde, Prince George Cougars (camp invite) F- Aiden Foster, Prince George Cougars (2025, 4th round, 127th overall) G- Harrison Meneghin, Medicine Hat Tigers (2024, 7th round, 206th overall)* Toronto Maple Leafs F- Miroslav Holinka, Edmonton Oil Kings (2024, 5th round, 151st overall)* F- Gavin McKenna, Medicine Hat Tigers (2026, 1st round, 1st overall) F- Zach Olsen, Saskatoon Blades (2026, 3rd round, 73rd overall) F- Cooper Williams, Saskatoon Blades (2026, 5th round, 158th overall) D- Ethan MacKenzie, Edmonton Oil Kings (2026, 3rd round, 69th overall) D- Matyas Man, Prince Albert Raiders (camp invite) D- Quinn Mantei, Brandon Wheat Kings (camp invite) G- Ethan McCallum, Penticton Vees (camp invite) Utah Mammoth F- Tij Iginla, Kelowna Rockets (2024, 1st round, 6th overall)* D- Terrell Goldsmith, Tri-City Americans (2023, 4th round, 102nd overall)* D- Max Psenicka, Portland Winterhawks (2025, 2nd round, 46th overall) D- Veeti Vaisanen, Medicine Hat Tigers (2024, 3rd round, 96th overall) Vancouver Canucks F- Braeden Cootes, Seattle Thunderbirds (2025, 1st round, 15th overall)* F- Connor Dale, Tri-City Americans (camp invite) D- Parker Alcos, Edmonton Oil Kings (2024, 6th round, 189th overall) G- Anders Miller, Everett Silvertips (camp invite) Vegas Golden Knights F- Alex Weiermair, Portland Winterhawks (2025, 6th round, 186th overall)* F- Jordan Gustafson, Lethbridge Hurricanes (2022, 3rd round, 79th overall)* F- Nathan Pilling, Seattle Thunderbirds (camp invite) F- Jonah Sivertson, Prince Albert Raiders (2026, 4th round, 113th overall) D- Sean Burick, Penticton Vees (2026, 3rd round, 95th overall) D- Viliam Kmec, Prince George Cougars (signed)* D- Will McLaughlin, Portland Winterhawks (2026, 5th round, 159th overall) G- Alex Levshyn, Prince George Cougars (camp invite) Washington Capitals F- Brett Hyland, Brandon Wheat Kings (2023, 7th round, 200th overall) F- Lynden Lakovic, Moose Jaw Warriors (2025, 1st round, 27th overall)* F- Gavin Lesiuk, Lethbridge Hurricanes (camp invite) F- Terik Parascak, Prince George Cougars (2024, 1st round, 17th overall)* F- Tyus Sparks, Spokane Chiefs (2026, 4th round, 101st overall) F- Logan Stuart, Lethbridge Hurricanes (2026, 7th round, 208th overall)** G- AJ Reyelts, Penticton Vees (camp invite) Winnipeg Jets F- Brayden Yager, Lethbridge Hurricanes (2023, 1st round, 14th overall (PIT))* F- Jett Lajoie, Prince George Cougars (camp invite) F- Owen Martin, Spokane Chiefs (2025, 3rd round, 92nd overall) D- Brayden Crampton, Spokane Chiefs (camp invite) D- Noa Ta'amu, Edmonton Oil Kings (2026, 7th round, 199th overall) G- Max Hildebrand, Prince Albert Raiders (camp invite) G- Alex Worthington, Edmonton Oil Kings (camp invite) *- Player has signed an NHL contract **- Incoming WHL player Italics indicate Western Hockey League alumni]]> WATCH: Michael Dyck Joins Jay Janower on Global News https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/88757-2 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 21:46:02 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/88757-2 Giants Unveil Full Regular Season Schedule for 2026-27 https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-unveil-full-regular-season-schedule-for-2026-27 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:03:03 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-unveil-full-regular-season-schedule-for-2026-27 Vancouver, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants announced today their full 68-game schedule for the 2026-27 Western Hockey League season. As was previously announced, the Giants will begin the 2026-27 regular season on home ice against the Kelowna Rockets on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at the Langley Events Centre at 7 p.m. PT. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SCHEDULE The longest homestand for the Giants will be eight games in late October and November, beginning Friday, October 30 against Victoria and ending Sunday, October 22 against Kamloops. The team’s Alberta road trip – the longest road trip of the season – will take place in late February and early March, with the G-Men starting in Medicine Hat on February 27 and wrapping up in Calgary on March 7, with stops in Lethbridge (Feb. 28), Edmonton (March 3) and Red Deer (March 5) in between. The regular season will wrap up at home on Saturday, March 27 against Victoria. NOTEWORTHY HOME DATES
  • Saturday, September 19, 2026: White Spot Home Opener vs. Kelowna (7:00 p.m.)
  • Friday, October 30, 2026: Trick or Suite Night vs. Victoria (7:00 p.m.)
  • Saturday, December 12, 2026: Teddy Bear Toss vs. Penticton Vees (7:00 p.m.)
  • Sunday, January 24, 2027: First of two home games vs. defending champion Everett Silvertips (4:00 p.m.)
  • Monday, February 15, 2027: Family Day Matinee vs. Portland Winterhawks (2:00 p.m.)
  • Saturday, March 27, 2027: Fan Appreciation Night (Final Home Game) vs. Victoria (7:00 p.m.)
CLICK HERE FOR SCHEDULE PDF This season, the G-Men have seven Friday games, 11 Saturday games and nine Sunday games taking place at the LEC. There will be one Monday home game (February 15 – Family Day), three Tuesday home games (October 6 vs. Brandon, November 10 vs. Spokane and December 29 vs. Kelowna) and three Wednesday home games (February 3 vs. Prince Albert, February 24 vs. Saskatoon and March 17 vs. Everett). HOME GAMES BY MONTH
  • September - 2
  • October - 4
  • November - 8
  • December - 5
  • January - 4
  • February - 7
  • March - 4
HOME GAMES BY DAY OF THE WEEK
    • Monday - 1
    • Tuesday - 3
    • Wednesday - 3
    • Friday - 7
    • Saturday - 11
    • Sunday - 9
The 2027 WHL Playoffs and the battle for the Ed Chynoweth Cup will begin Wednesday, March 31, 2027, culminating with the 2027 WHL Championship Series from Friday, May 7, through Monday, May 17, 2027. The 2027 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota will be hosted in Guelph, Ont., by the Ontario Hockey League’s Guelph Storm from Friday, May 21, through Sunday, May 30, 2027. CLICK HERE to view the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season schedule in its entirety. Games, dates, locations, and times are all subject to change.
Giants season tickets and flex packs are NOW ON SALE! Season ticket packages start as low as $18.26 per game and include the first two home playoff games. Flex packs start at just $135 and come in six ,12 or 36 -ticket packs. Call the Giants Office at 604.4.GIANTS (+1 (604) 444-2687) or contact the Giants at: sales@vancouvergiants.com.]]> Giants Select 2 Defencemen in CHL Import Draft https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-2-defencemen-in-chl-import-draft Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:22:22 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-2-defencemen-in-chl-import-draft Ladner, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants selected 2008-born defenceman Jakub Floriš’ (Bratislava, SVK) and 2009-born defenceman Oliver Botka (Martin, SVK) in the 2026 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft on Tuesday morning.
Floriš’, 18, was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the fourth round of the NHL Entry Draft this past weekend, 106th overall. Botka, who turned 17 in April, is eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft.
"This really improves our backend and that's where you build from," Giants Head Coach and General Manager Michael Dyck said. "Both of these guys not only have the ability to create some offence and get pucks up the ice and move them to our forwards, but I think both of them are [also] proficient defensively and will definitely help us with our transition game."
Floriš’ is 6-foot-3 and 194 lbs. The right-shot blueliner has played the last two seasons in Finland. During the 2025-26 season, Floriš’ recorded 10 goals and eight assists for 18 points in 38 games for Lukko U20, ranking fourth among all defencemen in the Finnish U20 league in scoring. CLICK FOR FLORIS' ELITE PROSPECTS PROFILE Botka played for Slovakia as an underager at the IIHF U-18 World Championships, where he recorded four assists in seven games. The 6-foot-1, left-shot blueliner led all defencemen in the Slovakian U20 league in scoring this past season with 36 points (9G-27A) in 44 games for HK Nitra U20. CLICK FOR BOTKA'S ELITE PROSPECTS PROFILE
What the Scouts Says - Floris

Elite Prospects

"Floriš’ appeal comes mainly down to the physical tools. He’s a projectable skater who achieves ideal depth and has plus-level four-way mobility, regularly able to chain together end-to-end rushes and catch up on attackers when they try to beat him wide...Floriš generates reliable value on both sides of the ice. He’s a proactive defender who leverages his tool advantage to pinch aggressively, force dump-ins by gapping up early, and has the frame to battle effectively down low. When the play turns the other way, he’s rushing to support it if not leading it. Interestingly, Lukko utilized him on the bumper spot on the power play, which played a big part in his high goal total." – 2026 NHL Draft Guide

Daily Faceoff

"You usually know what you’re getting from Floriš every time he hits the ice. He’s a well-rounded blueliner who won’t wow you with his offensive game but can shut you down defensively. His skating is impressive and I love how physical he is along the boards. He plays a suffocating style that gives you little room to work with." – Steven Ellis

What the Scouts Says - Botka

Elite Prospects

"Frequently jumped in on rushes or carried the puck up himself. Able to use spin moves to create space and get the puck up ice. Quick hands and feet to make plays off the blue line...his raw tools and offensive upside are extremely exciting especially since he still appears to be growing and is closing in on 6-foot-2." – Janik Beichler, EP Scout

Daily Faceoff

"I hadn’t seen much of Botka’s game before this tournament, but count me in as a fan. The 17-year-old put up good numbers against U-20 competition this season, and he has looked like one of the most mature options on the Slovak blueline. He makes smart, calculated decisions with the puck while eating a ton of ice time." – Steven Ellis
The full list of 2026 CHL Import Draft selections can be found by clicking here.]]> Giants to Call City Centre Arena Home Starting in 2030 https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-to-call-city-centre-arena-home-starting-in-2030 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:04:16 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-to-call-city-centre-arena-home-starting-in-2030 Langley, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants announced on Tuesday that the hockey club will relocate to City Centre Arena – a new sports and entertainment arena that will be completed in 2030 – in Surrey, B.C., beginning at the start of the 2030-31 Western Hockey League season. “This is a transformational decision for the Vancouver Giants and one that positions our organization for long-term success,” Giants Majority Owner and President Ron Toigo said. “We are thrilled to be part of this amazing venue that will change the face of Surrey like never before. It’s an exciting time for the city and we’re proud to be part of its growth. “Moving into a brand-new, state-of-the-art arena in Surrey City Centre gives us the opportunity to bid on premier events such as the IIHF World Junior Championship and the Memorial Cup. It will provide an outstanding experience for our players, fans and partners in a building that is designed for the future. We’re grateful to the Township of Langley for its support and look forward to spending at least three more seasons there. With Michael Dyck back in the fold, we’re excited to get back to our winning ways.” City Centre Arena will be located in the heart of Surrey City Centre, where the Giants will be the anchor tenant. Anticipated to be completed by 2030, the state-of-the-art facility will be the centerpiece of Surrey's new entertainment district, featuring an arena with an approximate seating capacity of 10,000 for hockey, concerts and community events. The development also includes a hotel with conference facilities, retail, office and commercial space connected by an enclosed galleria. "We're proud to welcome the Vancouver Giants as the future anchor tenant of the City Centre Arena and Cultural Event Centre," Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said. "This announcement reflects the confidence that organizations like the Giants have in Surrey's future. Together, we're creating a world-class venue that will serve residents, attract major events, support local businesses, and help build a vibrant entertainment district in the heart of Surrey's downtown." Click HERE for the City of Surrey announcement.
To inquire about purchasing season tickets to see the Vancouver Giants, call 604.4.GIANTS (604.444.2687) or click here for more information.]]> Giants Select 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Botka with 2nd CHL Import Pick https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-2027-nhl-draft-prospect-botka-with-2nd-chl-import-pick Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:28:10 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-2027-nhl-draft-prospect-botka-with-2nd-chl-import-pick Ladner, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants selected 2009-born defenceman Oliver Botka (Martin, SVK) with the 70th overall pick in the 2026 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft on Tuesday morning. Botka, who turned 17 in April, is eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft and played for Slovakia as an underager at the IIHF U-18 World Championships, where he recorded four assists in seven games. "Really, really good skater," Giants Head Coach and General Manager Michael Dyck said. "Obviously offensive upside and a guy who's going to be a good two-way guy for us." CLICK FOR BOTKA'S ELITE PROSPECTS PROFILE The 6-foot-1, left-shot blueliner led all defencemen in the Slovakian U20 league in scoring this past season with 36 points (9G-27A) in 44 games for HK Nitra U20. He produced 18 points (2G-16A) in 29 games in the U20 league as a 15-year-old during the 2024-25 season.

What the Scouts Says

Elite Prospects

"The only underage player on Slovakia's blue line, Botka was a big standout in both games I saw. A very agile skater with good size, he made an impact at both ends of the ice. He was great on retrievals, displaying good speed that allowed him to win races even against faster top prospects like Canada's Tynan Lawrence. Consistently stood out with the puck on his stick. Able to to get the puck off the boards and start a breakout. Frequently jumped in on rushes or carried the puck up himself. Able to use spin moves to create space and get the puck up ice. Quick hands and feet to make plays off the blue line...his raw tools and offensive upside are extremely exciting especially since he still appears to be growing and is closing in on 6-foot-2. – Janik Beichler

Daily Faceoff

"I hadn’t seen much of Botka’s game before this tournament, but count me in as a fan. The 17-year-old put up good numbers against U-20 competition this season, and he has looked like one of the most mature options on the Slovak blueline. He makes smart, calculated decisions with the puck while eating a ton of ice time." – Steven Ellis
The full list of 2026 CHL Import Draft selections can be found by clicking here.]]> Giants Select Right-Shot D-Man Floriš with 9th Pick in CHL Import Draft https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-right-shot-d-man-floris-with-9th-pick-in-chl-import-draft Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:48:21 +0000 Nathan Kanter https://chl.ca/whl-giants/article/giants-select-right-shot-d-man-floris-with-9th-pick-in-chl-import-draft Ladner, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants selected 2008-born defenceman Jakub Floriš’ (Bratislava, SVK) with the 9th overall pick in the 2026 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft on Tuesday morning. Floriš’, 18, was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the fourth round of the NHL Entry Draft this past weekend, 106th overall. "Good size, big two-way defenceman that can skate," Giants Head Coach and General Manager Michael Dyck said. "Obviously he's going to be a big, big part of our team moving forward." CLICK FOR FLORIS' ELITE PROSPECTS PROFILE The 6-foot-3, right-shot blueliner has played the last two seasons in Finland. During the 2025-26 season, Floriš’ recorded 10 goals and eight assists for 18 points in 38 games for Lukko U20, ranking fourth among all defencemen in the Finnish U20 league in scoring. During the 2024-25 season, he tallied 25 points in 37 games (8G-17A) for Lukko U18. Internationally, Floriš’ recently represented Slovakia at the 2026 IIHF U-18 World Championships, where he tallied four points (2G-2A) in seven games. https://twitter.com/RussellV_MSP/status/2070927712458264656 "Jakub Floriš outperformed Adam Goljer at the [U-18] tournament, displaying more aggressive defence while matching his counterpart in terms of puck-moving ability," Elite Prospects scout David St. Louis said in a game report from May 13. "He escaped pressure, dragging forecheckers with him to pass back into space to his partner. And he constantly knocked opponents out of the play in this game, separating them from the puck...The tools look NHL projectable, especially his skating and physical ability, and the flashes of puck-moving potential only add to his projection. A potential bottom-pairing NHL defender." The Giants also hold the 70th overall pick in the CHL Import Draft. They will pass on their third round pick.

More from the Scouts

Elite Prospects

"Floriš’ appeal comes mainly down to the physical tools. He’s a projectable skater who achieves ideal depth and has plus-level four-way mobility, regularly able to chain together end-to-end rushes and catch up on attackers when they try to beat him wide...Floriš generates reliable value on both sides of the ice. He’s a proactive defender who leverages his tool advantage to pinch aggressively, force dump-ins by gapping up early, and has the frame to battle effectively down low. When the play turns the other way, he’s rushing to support it if not leading it. Interestingly, Lukko utilized him on the bumper spot on the power play, which played a big part in his high goal total." – 2026 NHL Draft Guide

Daily Faceoff

"You usually know what you’re getting from Floriš every time he hits the ice. He’s a well-rounded blueliner who won’t wow you with his offensive game but can shut you down defensively. His skating is impressive and I love how physical he is along the boards. He plays a suffocating style that gives you little room to work with." – Steven Ellis
The full list of 2026 CHL Import Draft selections can be found by clicking here.]]>