Kelowna Rockets - Feed

Shane Smith Named Winner of 2026 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy

Kohen Willis Dengler — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:04:53 +0000

KELOWNA, BC – Kelowna Rockets forward Shane Smith has been named the winner of the 2026 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy. The award is presented annually to the Western Hockey League player who best demonstrates outstanding community service.

Acquired from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in a mid-season trade, Smith made an immediate impact both on and off the ice during the 2025–26 campaign. In 61 regular season games, Smith recorded 33 goals and 35 assists for 68 points while playing a key role in the Rockets’ success.

Away from the rink, Smith’s contributions were equally meaningful. Leading by example with school visits and other events, Smith made a personal pledge this season, donating $25 for each point he scored to the Canadian CMV Foundation, in honour of his niece, Maia, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV at birth. In total, Smith donated $1,800, and, in the process, raised awareness of congenital CMV – a common viral infection that can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy. CMV can cause health problems in some babies, which is why awareness, prevention, and early detection are important. CMV impacts one in 200 newborns in Canada.

This marks the first time Smith has won the award and the third consecutive season he has been recognized as a finalist, having previously earned nominations while playing with the Lethbridge Hurricanes and Medicine Hat Tigers.

Smith becomes the first Kelowna Rockets player to win the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy since Ty Hurley in 2023–24.

The Kelowna Rockets congratulate Shane on this well-deserved recognition!

Banini Named WHL Goalie of the Week

Kohen Willis Dengler — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:52:06 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets are proud to announce that goaltender Josh Banini has been named the Mary Brown’s WHL Goaltender of the Week. Banini earned the honour after appearing in two games during the Rockets’ second-round series against the Everett Silvertips, stopping 82 of 84 shots for a stellar 0.976 save percentage and 1.12 goals-against average. His performance between the pipes was a key factor in Kelowna’s Game 4 comeback victory, and he followed it up with a remarkable 53-save effort in Game 5, pushing the contest to overtime. The weekly recognition marks the first time Banini has been named the WHL Goaltender of the Week. His 53-save performance in Game 5 also etched his name into the record books, becoming the first Rockets goaltender in nine years to record 50 or more saves in a playoff game. Banini appeared in 29 regular season games this year, posting a 12-11-2-2 record along with a 3.35 goals-against average and a .890 save percentage. Known for elevating his play in key moments, Banini has been particularly strong against Everett, recording a 2.91 goals-against average and .931 save percentage across six career appearances. Banini's recent performance continues to demonstrate his ability to perform at his best when it matters most.

Rockets Lead WHL with Eight Alumni in 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs

Kohen Willis Dengler — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:42:08 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets will once again be well represented on hockey’s biggest stage.

Eight Rockets alumni are competing in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the highest total among WHL clubs and tied for the second-most among all CHL teams.

That group includes Leon Draisaitl, Jamie Benn, Colton Dach, Kaedan Korczak, Colton Sissons, Tyler Myers, Luke Schenn, and Lassi Thomson.

From league MVPs and team captains to rising contributors and Stanley Cup champions, Rockets alumni continue to leave their mark across the National Hockey League.

Leon Draisaitl - Edmonton Oilers (Kelowna 2014-15) Leon Draisaitl is set to appear in his eighth career Stanley Cup Playoff run, all with the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers are aiming for another deep push after back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final. Draisaitl had another dominant season, recording 35 goals and 62 assists for 97 points in just 65 games. He has not played since March 15 due to a knee injury and is considered a game-time decision for Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday night. A proven playoff performer, Draisaitl has totaled 52 goals and 89 assists for 141 points in 96 career postseason games, with his 1.47 points-per-game ranking second among active players (minimum 20 games). The last time the Oilers played the Ducks in the postseason (in 2017) Draisaitl tallied 5 goals and 8 assists for 13 points in 7 games. Colton Dach - Edmonton Oilers (Kelowna 2021-23) Colton Dach is preparing for his first NHL Stanley Cup Playoff appearance. The former Rocket is looking to contribute to another deep run for the Oilers. Originally drafted by Chicago, Dach spent parts of two seasons with the Blackhawks before being traded to Edmonton alongside Jason Dickinson on March 5, 2026, in exchange for Andrew Mangiapane and a conditional first-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. Dach recorded 5 goals and 8 assists for 13 points in 61 games this season and will join fellow Rockets alumnus Draisaitl as the Oilers take on the Ducks in the opening round. Jamie Benn - Dallas Stars (Kelowna 2007-09) Jamie Benn is skating in his ninth Stanley Cup Playoff run, all as captain of the Dallas Stars. He is looking to lead the franchise to its first Stanley Cup since 1999. Benn, a veteran of 121 playoff games, ranks fourth among active NHL players in playoff games played without a Stanley Cup. Over his postseason career, he has recorded 28 goals and 52 assists for 80 points. Benn posted 36 points (15G, 21A) in 60 regular-season games. Tyler Myers - Dallas Stars (Kelowna 2006-09) The Dallas Stars acquired Tyler Myers from the Vancouver Canucks at the trade deadline, reuniting him with former Rockets teammate Jamie Benn. The two last played together on the 2009 Kelowna Rockets team that won the WHL championship and advanced to the Memorial Cup. Myers is now in his eighth playoff run, recording 16 points (7G, 9A) in 62 career postseason games. Myers had 11 points (1G, 10A) in 73 regular-season games. Kaedan Korczak - Vegas Golden Knights (Kelowna 2017-21) Drafted in the second round in 2019, Korczak is appearing in his second career playoff run. With limited postseason experience to date, he is expected to play a larger role on Vegas’ blue line this spring. Korczak suited up in 78 games this season, tallying 16 points (3G, 13A). Colton Sissons - Vegas Golden Knights (Kelowna 2010-13) Sissons posted 11 points (6G, 5A) in 66 regular-season games and brings significant playoff experience, appearing in 72 career postseason games with 27 points (11G, 16A). Now in his ninth playoff run, Sissons is no stranger to deep postseason success, having helped the Nashville Predators reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2017. Luke Schenn - Buffalo Sabres (Kelowna 2005-08) Acquired from the Winnipeg Jets at the trade deadline, Schenn has appeared in four games with Buffalo so far. He recorded 7 points (1G, 6A) in 50 regular-season games and provides a physical presence on the blue line. A two-time Stanley Cup champion with Tampa Bay (2021, 2022), Schenn has played in 58 career playoff games. Lassi Thomson - Ottawa Senators (Kelowna 2018-19) Lassi Thomson split the season between the Ottawa Senators and their AHL affiliate in Belleville, recording three assists in 11 NHL games. Thomson has yet to make his Stanley Cup Playoff debut but could factor into the lineup during Ottawa’s first-round series against the Carolina Hurricanes following injuries in Game 1. The former first-round pick is looking to help the Senators win their first playoff series since 2017.

Pair of Rockets Featured in NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings

Kohen Willis Dengler — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:16:12 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets have had a pair of goaltenders recognized in NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Harrison Boettiger was ranked 10th among North American goaltenders, while Frantisek Poletin was listed 6th among international goaltenders.

Boettiger has played a major role in the Rockets’ success this season after making the jump to the WHL from the U.S. National Team Development Program. In his first WHL campaign, the 18-year-old posted a 25-10-4-1 record, along with a 2.83 goals-against average and .911 save percentage.

His 25 victories were tied for the eighth-most in the WHL, while his .911 save percentage ranked fourth among qualified league goaltenders.

He continued that strong form into the playoffs, posting a 3.06 goals-against average and .907 save percentage through eight appearances and now looks ahead to the 2026 Memorial Cup.

Boettiger was previously ranked 7th among North American goaltenders in Central Scouting’s midterm rankings released in January. He was also named a “B” rated prospect on the Players to Watch list in October, projecting as a potential second or third-round selection.

Poletin, the younger brother of Rockets forward Tomas Poletin, also earned recognition following a strong season in Finland.

The 17-year-old was the youngest goaltender ranked by Central Scouting. He appeared in 13 games for Pelicans U20 in Finland’s top junior league, posting a 2.38 goals-against average and .911 save percentage.

Poletin was previously ranked 5th among international goaltenders in the midterm rankings after also receiving a “B” rating on the preliminary watch list earlier this season.

Both goaltenders are among the top prospects eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, set for June 26–27 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, USA.

Jamie Benn Named Dallas Stars Nominee for Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy

Kohen Willis Dengler — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:26:42 +0000

The Dallas Stars have announced that captain Jamie Benn has been selected as the club’s nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for the 2025–26 season.

Benn spent two seasons with the Kelowna Rockets from 2007 to 2009, recording 79 goals and 68 assists for 147 points in 107 regular season games.

He was a key member of the Rockets’ 2009 WHL Championship team that advanced to the Memorial Cup. Benn led the tournament in scoring with five goals and nine points in four games.

The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.

Now captain of the Stars since 2013, Benn has remained a cornerstone of the organization through his leadership, consistency, and commitment on and off the ice. The Victoria, B.C. product continues to play an important role while mentoring younger players and contributing in all situations.

Though he has yet to win the award, this marks Benn’s second career nomination for the Masterton Trophy, having previously been recognized by the Stars during the 2022–23 season.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Playoff Run Ends with 2-1 Overtime Loss in Everett

Kohen Willis Dengler — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:22:15 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets were led by an outstanding performance from Josh Banini, who stopped 53 of 55 shots, but a late push wasn’t enough as they fell 2–1 in overtime to the top-seeded Everett Silvertips. Shane Smith’s late third-period goal tied the game and gave Kelowna life, but Everett responded in overtime as Landon Dupont scored the winner to secure the victory and help the Silvertips move on. Despite being heavily outshot 55–31, the Rockets generated more high-danger chances but couldn’t solve Silvertips goaltender Anders Miller, who was outstanding throughout the series. BOXSCORE GAME SUMMARY The opening frame was fast-paced with both teams trading chances early. The Everett Silvertips held the edge in shots, outshooting the Kelowna Rockets 15–9, but Josh Banini was sharp in the Rockets net, turning aside everything he faced. Kelowna had a couple of looks on the power play but couldn’t capitalize, sending the game to the intermission scoreless. Everett continued to push the pace in the second, outshooting Kelowna 16–9 and controlling much of the territorial play. Despite that, the Rockets created some of the more dangerous opportunities, forcing Anders Miller into key saves. Neither side found a breakthrough, keeping the game locked at 0–0 through 40 minutes. Everett finally broke through at 11:34 of the third as Carter Bear (2) scored shorthanded glove side to give the Silvertips a 1–0 lead. The Rockets pressed late and were rewarded when Shane Smith (2) tied the game at 18:47, finishing a play from Carson Wetsch and Vojtech Cihar mirroring the previous game where Smith also scored late to force overtime. In overtime, it took just 40 seconds for Everett to strike, as a point shot from Landon Dupont found its way through traffic to secure a 2–1 victory and clinch the series. While the series total box score may appear lopsided, the Rockets stayed competitive throughout and pushed the top-seeded Silvertips in every game. Banini was a standout, building off his relief performance in Game 4 where he stopped 29 straight shots. He finished Games 4 and 5 having turned aside a total of 82 of 84 shots. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 31 | Everett 55 Power Play: Kelowna 0/3 | Everett 0/2 Faceoffs: Kelowna 30 | Everett 31 UP NEXT The Rockets will now look towards the Memorial Cup which will begin May 21st at Prospera Place.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Erase 3 Goal Deficit to Survive another Game

Kohen Willis Dengler — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:57:28 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets have forced a game five against the Everett Silvertips after a crazy 4-3 overtime victory. The Rockets were down 3-0 with 12:07 left to go in the game before scoring three times, including a Shane Smith goal to tie the game with 7.7 seconds to go. In overtime it was Tij Iginla who scored the game-winning goal. Goaltender Josh Banini came in relief of Harrison Boettiger and was spectacular in the win. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS | POST GAME: MARTIN | POST GAME: IGINLA | POST GAME: BANINI GAME SUMMARY Everett came out flying and opened the scoring just 1:04 into the game as Julius Miettinen (8) made it 1–0. The Silvertips doubled their lead on the powerplay at 8:47 of the first period, with Matias Vanhanen (7) converting off a nice feed from Landon Dupont. Everett extended the lead to 3–0 at 14:10 when Brek Liske (3) scored glove side. That goal ended Harrison Boettiger’s night, as Josh Banini entered in relief and shut the door the rest of the way. The second period was hard-fought hockey from both teams. Both teams traded chances but neither team could capitalize and it remained 3-0 after forty minutes of play In the third, it was Tij Iginla (6) who got the Rockets on the board on the powerplay at 7:54 on a beautifully placed shot blocker-side. It was Iginla’s first goal of the series and it helped to energize the team back into the game. The goal was assisted by Mazden Leslie as the Rockets cut the deficit to 3–1. The Rockets continued to build momentum midway through the period. Hiroki Gojsic (1) scored his first of the postseason at 12:11 after picking up an Everett turnover and squeaking it by the Silvertips netminder to bring Kelowna within one. With time and the Rockets' season winding down, Kelowna would tie the game in dramatic fashion. On the powerplay, Shane Smith (1) scored at 19:52 of the third period, with assists from Vojtech Cihar and Carson Wetsch to tie the game 3–3 and force overtime. It was a scramble in front of the Silvertips net and Smith proved to be in the right place at the right time to tie the game In overtime, the comeback was complete. Tij Iginla (7) scored his second of the night at just 2:30 into overtime to complete the comeback for the Rockets. Vojtech Cihar and Tomas Poletin assisted the goal, securing a 4–3 overtime victory for the Rockets. Banini finished a perfect 29-for-29 in relief, while Tij Iginla scored twice and Vojtech Cihar led Kelowna with two assists. The Rockets went 2-for-6 on the power play and showed resilience after a tough opening period, erasing a three-goal deficit to secure a huge win on home ice. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 37 | Everett 26 Power Play: Kelowna 1/6 | Everett 0/4 Faceoffs: Kelowna 32 | Everett 31 UP NEXT The Rockets will now carry this momentum into Everett, facing a challenging situation. Game five will take place Friday, April 17th, at 7:05pm pst. The game is available for free for all fans on Victory+ and 104.7 The Lizard.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Drop Game 3 against Silvertips

Kohen Willis Dengler — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:13:39 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets dropped Game 3 on Tuesday night at Prospera Place, falling 4–1 to the Everett Silvertips. Everett broke the game open in the second period, scoring three times to take control. Tomas Poletin scored the lone goal for Kelowna in the loss. Silvertips goaltender Anders Miller was the standout performer, turning aside 36 of 37 shots to backstop Everett to the victory. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS | POST GAME: MARTIN GAME SUMMARY The opening frame was played at a fast pace, and the Rockets came with tons of energy right from the drop of the puck. Kelowna generated a number of quality scoring chances and controlled much of the period, outshooting Everett 16–4 in the first. Despite the pressure and offensive zone time, the Rockets were unable to beat goaltender Anders Miller, and the game remained scoreless after twenty minutes. Everett broke through in the second period, as Matias Vanhanen (6) opened the scoring at 7:45 to give the Silvertips a 1–0 lead. Just 24 seconds later, Brek Liske (2) found the back of the net at 8:09, quickly doubling Everett’s advantage and shifting momentum. The Silvertips continued to capitalize on their opportunities as Julius Miettinen (7) added an insurance marker late in the period at 16:56, sending Everett into the second intermission with a commanding 3–0 lead. The Rockets pushed back in the third period and were finally rewarded on the powerplay, as Tomas Poletin (2) scored in the slot at 5:52 to cut into the deficit. Hayden Paupanekis and Parker Alcos picked up the assists on the goal, bringing Kelowna within two and giving the home crowd some life. However, Everett responded before the Rockets could build further momentum, as Lukas Kaplan converted on a penalty shot to restore the three-goal cushion. That would hold as the final, with the Silvertips earning a 4–1 victory. Harrison Boettiger made 23 saves in the loss, while the Rockets outshot Everett 37–27 but were unable to find the finishing touch. With the result, Kelowna now sits one game away from elimination in the 2026 WHL Playoffs. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 37 | Everett 26 Power Play: Kelowna 1/6 | Everett 0/4 Faceoffs: Kelowna 32 | Everett 31 UP NEXT With their backs against the wall, the Rockets will look to respond in Game 4 and claw their way back into the series. Game 4 is set for Wednesday, April 15th at 7:05 PM PST. Tickets are available at selectyourtickets.com.

Three Rockets Named WHL Award Finalists

Kohen Willis Dengler — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:15:57 +0000

As the 2025–26 season progressed, different parts of the Kelowna Rockets organization made their mark. That was recognized this week, as three key members of the Rockets were named finalists for major Western Hockey League awards.

It starts with Tij Iginla.

After an injury-shortened season a year ago, the 19-year-old returned with something to prove and delivered one of the most dominant offensive seasons in the WHL. Iginla led the league in points per game (1.88), finishing with 90 points in just 48 games, while setting new career highs in both assists and total points.

His name now sits among the finalists for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy, awarded to the WHL’s Player of the Year. It is a moment that carries added significance, as his father, Jarome Iginla, captured the same honour nearly three decades ago. For the Rockets, it is an opportunity to see a new chapter of history written, as no Kelowna player has ever claimed the award.

While Iginla’s impact has been felt every night on the ice, Shane Smith has made his mark in a different, equally meaningful way.

Acquired mid-season, Smith quickly became a leader both in the room and in the community. Inspired by his niece Maia, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV at birth, Smith pledged to donate $25 for every point he recorded to the Canadian CMV Foundation. By season’s end, that commitment turned into $1,675 raised during the regular season, along with increased awareness for a cause that extends far beyond the game.

Now a finalist for the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy for the third straight season, Smith’s impact is a reminder of what it means to represent more than just a team crest.

Behind the scenes and behind the roster is a familiar name.

In his 35th season of leading the organization, Bruce Hamilton has once again built a contender. The Rockets’ fourth-place finish in the Western Conference is the result of a season defined by calculated decisions from key acquisitions. Prior to puck drop this season, Hamilton added San Jose Sharks prospect Carson Wetsch, along with veteran blueliner Mazden Leslie. The offseason also saw Hamilton recruit U.S.-born netminder Harrison Boettiger, who is on the radar for the 2026 NHL Draft. Before the 2026 WHL Trade Deadline passed, Hamilton had bolstered his depth and veteran presence with the addition of Vancouver Canucks prospect Parker Alcos, Overagers Shane Smith and Ty Halaburda, and others. Two of Hamilton’s savviest moves came in the form of imports. During the 2025 CHL Import Draft, he selected New York Islanders prospect Tomas Poletin with the first overall pick. Later in the campaign, he acquired Los Angeles Kings prospect Vojtech Cihar via trade and was successful in recruiting him to Kelowna following the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Hamilton’s work has earned him a nomination for the Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy, recognizing WHL Executive of the Year. Hamilton has won the honour of WHL Executive of the Year on two occasions (1992–93, 2002–03). It is an honour that reflects not just this season but also a legacy that includes four WHL championships and a Memorial Cup.

Together, these three nominations tell the story of a season in Kelowna, one built on talent, character, and leadership at every level of the organization.

And with playoff hockey underway, that story is still being written.

Update on Ty Halaburda

Kohen Willis Dengler — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:07:37 +0000

KELOWNA, BC – The Kelowna Rockets would like to provide an update on forward Ty Halaburda following the injury sustained during Game 2 in Everett. Halaburda has been released from Providence Regional Medical Center Everett and will travel home to Victoria today with his family. He will be out for the remainder of the season as he recovers from a head injury. The Rockets medical staff will oversee his care moving forward, and he is expected to rejoin the team later this month. The Kelowna Rockets would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the medical staff at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett for their care and support. The organization would also like to thank the Everett Silvertips front office staff for their outstanding support throughout this process. The organization wishes Ty a full and speedy recovery and will continue to support him throughout his rehabilitation.