Kelowna Rockets

Kelowna Rockets - Feed https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/tag/tri-city-americans/ Home of the 2026 Memorial Cup Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:36:59 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://media.chl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2025/10/20154238/cropped-rockets-retro-logo-scaled-1-32x32.png tri city americans Archives - Kelowna Rockets https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/tag/tri-city-americans/ 32 32 Kelowna Rockets Carrie Brown Named Recipient of WHL Distinguished Service Award https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/carrie-brown-whl-distinguished-service-award Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:24:47 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/carrie-brown-whl-distinguished-service-award KELOWNA, BC — The Kelowna Rockets are proud to announce that Executive Assistant Carrie Brown has been named a recipient of the WHL Distinguished Service Award for the 2025-26 season, as presented by WHL Commissioner Dan Near on behalf of the WHL Board of Governors. The WHL Distinguished Service Award, established in 2004, is presented annually to individuals who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes on behalf of WHL franchises and made an extraordinary contribution at both the Club and League levels over an extended period. Awards are presented to one recipient from each of the WHL's Western and Eastern Conferences. Brown was honoured by Commissioner Near and Rockets President and General Manager Bruce Hamilton during Game 6 of the 2026 Memorial Cup, presented by Kubota. "Since 1995, the Rockets' inaugural season in Kelowna, Carrie has been a fixture in the Kelowna Rockets front office," said WHL Commissioner Dan Near. "Every Club is fueled by key personnel who consistently provide a steady presence and support our Clubs' commitment to our communities. For the entirety of her career with the Rockets, Carrie has been that dedicated and passionate contributor." A Kelowna native, Brown has been a cornerstone of the Rockets organization for 30 years. From coordinating League-related matters and internal operations to supporting staff and players, she brings exceptional attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to upholding the proud history of the franchise. Brown becomes the fourth member of the Kelowna Rockets organization to receive the WHL Distinguished Service Award, joining Lorne Frey, Norbert Heinzelmann, and Dr. Mike Bobyn. "Carrie is the heart and soul of our organization," said Hamilton. "She is the steady presence in our office every single day, ensuring that the countless moving pieces of a WHL franchise operate smoothly. Carrie does the work that often goes unnoticed but is absolutely essential. Quite simply, without Carrie Brown, the Kelowna Rockets would not be the organization we are today." The Kelowna Rockets congratulate Carrie on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for three decades of extraordinary service to this organization and this community.]]> Game Recap: Silvertips End Rockets Season in 4-0 Loss at the 2026 Memorial Cup https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/may-27-2026-post-game-recap Thu, 28 May 2026 04:50:26 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/may-27-2026-post-game-recap The Kelowna Rockets dropped their final round robin game of the 2026 Memorial Cup, falling 4-0 to the Everett Silvertips, a loss that eliminated them from tournament contention. Everett was led by Matis Vanhanen and Kayd Ruedig, who helped pace the Silvertips to the victory. While the tournament did not end the way Kelowna had hoped, the Rockets battled hard and left everything on the ice throughout the 2026 Memorial Cup. Despite the disappointing finish, the team showed resilience and determination while competing against the top junior hockey clubs in all of the Canadian Hockey League. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS | POST-GAME AVAILABILITY GAME SUMMARY The first period of the final round robin game of the 2026 Memorial Cup featured plenty of energy from both the crowd and the players, as the two teams came out flying. However, at 7:22 of the opening frame, it was Kayd Ruedig (1) who opened the scoring for Everett after a shot from the point bounced off a Rockets defender and into the net to make it 1-0. Then, just twenty-five seconds later at 7:47, Jaxon Pisani (1) scored his first career CHL goal with a seeing-eye shot from the blue line to extend the Silvertips lead to 2-0. Jaxsin Vaughan picked up the assist on the goal. The Rockets appeared to score late in the period, but the goal was waved off due to a kicking motion. Everett would take a 2-0 lead into the first intermission. In the second period, Matias Vanhanen (3) added to the Silvertips lead just 1:03 into the frame. His third goal of the tournament made it 3-0 for Everett. Following the goal, Harrison Boettiger replaced Josh Banini in net for Kelowna. The Rockets generated a few opportunities on the powerplay but were unable to capitalize, and the score remained 3-0 after forty minutes of play. In the third period, the Silvertips added another goal as Carter Bear (2) found the back of the net to make it 4-0. That would stand as the final score, ending the Rockets Memorial Cup hopes. Josh Banini stopped 8 of 11 shots in the game, while Harrison Boettiger turned aside 21 of 22 shots in relief. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 28 | Everett 33 Power Play: Kelowna 0/4 | Everett 0/4 Faceoffs: Kelowna 33 | Everett 29]]> Memorial Cup Preview: Rockets Battle Everett In Memorial Cup In WHL Playoff Rematch https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/memorial-cup-preview-rockets-battle-everett-in-memorial-cup-in-whl-playoff-rematch Wed, 27 May 2026 20:52:49 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/memorial-cup-preview-rockets-battle-everett-in-memorial-cup-in-whl-playoff-rematch The Kelowna Rockets will look for revenge against the Western Hockey League Champion Everett Silvertips in the Rockets last round-robin game in the 2026 Memorial Cup. The Rockets and Silvertips met in the second round of the WHL playoffs and Everett took that series in five games. The Rockets will now look to to take revenge. The Rockets, who have their backs up against a wall, need this win in order to qualify for a tiebreaker/semifinal game. MEMORIAL CUP SCHEDULE

Round-Robin – Game 1 – Friday, May 22 – Kitchener vs. Kelowna (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 2 – Saturday, May 23 – Everett vs. Chicoutimi (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 3 – Sunday, May 24 – Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi ( 6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 4 – Monday, May 25 – Everett vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 5 – Tuesday, May 26 – Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 6 – Wednesday, May 27 – Kelowna vs. Everett (6 p.m. PT)
Tie-Breaker (*if necessary) – Thursday, May 28 (6 p.m. PT)
Semi-Final – Friday, May 29 (6 p.m. PT)
Championship Final – Sunday, May 31 (4 p.m. PT)

KELOWNA ROCKETS The season is on the line Wednesday night for the Kelowna Rockets. After dropping their opening two games at the Memorial Cup, the Rockets head into a must-win showdown against the Everett Silvertips, needing a victory to keep their tournament hopes alive and earn a spot in the playoff round. The game also gives Kelowna an opportunity for redemption against the same Everett team that ended their WHL playoff run earlier this spring. Much of the Rockets’ offence runs through Tij Iginla (41G, 49A), whose standout season has established him as one of the WHL’s top offensive threats. The sixth-overall selection of the Utah Mammoth finished the regular season with 41 goals and 49 assists for 90 points in just 48 games before adding another 12 points in the playoffs. He has already scored once at the Memorial Cup. Kelowna’s veteran leadership group has also played a major role throughout the season. Captain Carson Wetsch (22G, 50A), a prospect of the San Jose Sharks, recorded 72 points during the regular season while continuing to provide leadership and physical play. Overage forward Shane Smith (33G, 35A) delivered one of the best seasons of his WHL career with 33 goals and 35 assists, earning the 2026 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy. The Rockets also benefited from an injection of young talent. Czech forward Vojtech Cihar (12G, 19A) joined the club after capturing tournament MVP honours at the 2026 World Junior Championship. The Los Angeles Kings prospect quickly became one of Kelowna’s most productive players, posting 31 points in 31 games before leading the team in playoff scoring with 13 points in nine games. Fellow rookie Tomas Poletin (20G, 15A) also made an immediate impact in his first WHL season. The New York Islanders draft pick scored 20 goals during the regular season and has already contributed offensively during the Memorial Cup with an assist. Additional scoring depth has come from Hayden Paupanekis (15G, 22A) and Hiroki Gojsic (19G, 22A), two more NHL prospects from the Montreal Canadiens and Nashville Predators, respectively, who have continued to contribute offensively while bringing size and physicality to the lineup. One of the more unique stories on Kelowna’s roster this Memorial Cup has been veteran Mazden Leslie (18G, 50A). After transitioning from defence to forward for the Memorial Cup, the longtime WHL veteran has also made an impact early in the tournament, scoring once while leading the Rockets in shots through two games. Leslie had one of the strongest offensive seasons of his WHL career this year, recording 68 points. On the back end, trade deadline acquisitions Parker Alcos (5G, 25A) and Keith McInnis (10G, 23A) added stability and experience to the defence corps. Alcos, a prospect of the Vancouver Canucks, quickly became an important two-way contributor after arriving from the Edmonton Oil Kings. Meanwhile, Rowan Guest (1G, 24A) and Nate Corbet (3G, 11A) continue to provide a physical presence on the blue line, while Pittsburgh Penguins second-round pick Peyton Kettles recently returned from injury to give Kelowna another experienced option defensively. In goal, draft-eligible netminder Harrison Boettiger (2.83 GAA, 0.911 SV%) handled the majority of the workload during the regular season, posting a .911 save percentage and ranking among the WHL’s top goaltenders. Josh Banini (3.35 GAA, 0.890 SV%) also played an important role and elevated his game during the playoffs, particularly against Everett, where he stopped 82 of 84 shots faced. With both goaltenders already seeing action at the Memorial Cup, the Rockets have options heading into Wednesday’s elimination game. For the Rockets, the situation is straightforward heading into Wednesday night: win and the Memorial Cup run continues. Lose, and the season comes to an end. WHERE THEY RANK

Kelowna Rockets: 7th in the Western Hockey League (38-19-6-3)
Everett Silvertips: 1st in the Western Hockey League (57-8-2-1)

Everett Silvertips The Everett Silvertips who were Ed Chynoweth Cup champions as Western Hockey League Champions will look to improve to 2-1 at the 2026 Memorial Cup in Wednesday night's battle between them and the Kelowna Rockets The Silvertips were a powerhouse in the Western Hockey League all season and led the league with fifty-seven wins and one hundred and seventeen points. The Silvertips would then go 16-2 in the postseason, beating the Portland Winterhawks, Kelowna Rockets, Penticton Vees and Prince Albert Raiders Offensively, the Finnish duo of Matias Vanhanen (21G, 66A) and Julius Miettinen (35G, 41A) led the Silvertips. Vanhanen, second among rookies in assists and first in the regular season, followed his playoff performance with twelve goals and twelve assists for twenty-four points. So far in the Memorial Cup Vanhanen has two goals and one assist in two games. Miettinen, a Seattle Kraken Prospect has the highest points-per-game rate on the team and, in the playoffs, led the WHL with fourteen goals and twenty-seven points. Miettinen and Vanhanen were one and two, respectively, among forwards this year in +/- rating. Detroit Red Wings first-round pick Carter Bear (36G, 41A) was also a massive producer for the team and he continued his success in the playoffs, where he had seven goals and fifteen assists. He has one goal so far in the Memorial Cup. Overage forwards Zachary Shantz (27G, 38A) and Rylan Gould (21G, 29A) were two other massive parts of the Silvertips offence. In the postseason, Shantz had fourteen points while Gould had ten. Defensively, the Silvertips are led by the projected first overall pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, Landon Dupont (18G, 55A). Dupont, who was fifth among blueliners in points in the regular season, would then follow that up with five goals and eighteen assists for twenty-three points, second among defencemen in the playoffs. Dupont has two assists in two games at the Memorial Cup. Outside of Dupont, Anaheim Ducks draft pick Tarin Smith (16G, 55A) is another top offensive defenceman in the WHL, but he is unavailable for the Memorial Cup due to injury. Kayd Ruedig (16G, 20A) played parts of the season with Portland and Kamloops and is another key blueliner for the Silvertips. In the playoffs he had two goals and four assists for six points. 2026 NHL Draft-Eligible Defenceman Brek Liske (7G, 17A) saw his offensive game explode in the playoffs with four goals and thirteen assists in eighteen games. Philadelphia Flyers draft pick Luke Vlooswyk (1G, 7A) brings a shutdown element to the Silvertips blueline In net, Anders Miller (2.30 GAA, 0.914 SV%) gets most of the work. Miller, one of the top netminders in the league, started the season with the Calgary Hitmen before the Silvertips acquired him on October 13th, and his thirty-one wins ranked second in the WHL. He also ranked second in the WHL with 4 shutouts. In the playoffs he played every minute between the pipes and went 16-2 with a sparkling 1.91 GAA and 0.932 SV% INSIDE THE NUMBERS Kelowna Rockets Memorial Cup History

2003: WHL Champion – Finished 3rd
2004: Host – Memorial Cup Champions
2005: WHL Champion – Finished 4th
2009: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd
2015: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd

Everett Silvertips Memorial Cup History

This is the Silvertips first time qualifying for the Memorial Cup

Special teams: Regular Season Kelowna: PP 23.1% | PK 80.3% Everett: PP 30% | PK 80.2% Special teams: Playoffs Kelowna: PP 14.7% | PK 79.3% Everett: PP 27.7% | PK 83.8% Top Performers: Regular Season Kelowna Rockets:

Tij Iginla: 41 Goals, 49 Assists, 90 Points.
Carson Wetsch: 22 Goals, 50 Assists, 72 Points.
Shane Smith: 33 Goals, 35 Assists, 68 Points.

Everett Silvertips

Matias Vanhanen: 21 Goals, 66 Assists, 87 Points.
Carter Bear: 36 Goals, 41 Assists, 77 Points.
Julius Miettinen: 35 Goals, 41 Assists, 76 Points

Top Performers: Playoffs Everett Silvertips:

Vojtech Cihar: 6 Goals, 7 Assists, 13 Points.
Tij Iginla: 7 Goals, 5 Assists, 12 Points.
Hayden Paupanekis: 2 Goals, 3 Assists, 5 Points.

Everett Silvertips

Julius Miettinen: 14 Goals, 13 Assists, 27 Points
Matias Vanhanen: 12 Goals, 12 Assists, 24 Points.
Landon Dupont: 5 Goals, 18 Assists, 23 Points.

Round-Robin – Game 1 – Friday, May 22 – Kitchener vs. Kelowna (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 2 – Saturday, May 23 – Everett vs. Chicoutimi (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 3 – Sunday, May 24 – Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi ( 6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 4 – Monday, May 25 – Everett vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 5 – Tuesday, May 26 – Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 6 – Wednesday, May 27 – Kelowna vs. Everett (6 p.m. PT)
Tie-Breaker (*if necessary) – Thursday, May 28 (6 p.m. PT)
Semi-Final – Friday, May 29 (6 p.m. PT)
Championship Final – Sunday, May 31 (4 p.m. PT)

KELOWNA ROCKETS The Kelowna Rockets are looking to bounce back after a disappointing effort in Friday night’s Memorial Cup opener against the Kitchener Rangers. Kelowna struggled to generate consistent offence in the loss and will need a much stronger performance against the Chicoutimi Saguenéens if they hope to get back into the tournament picture. featuring a lineup filled with 8 NHL Drafted Prospects. Kelowna is led offensively by Tij Iginla, the sixth overall pick by the Utah Mammoth, who recorded 41 goals and 49 assists for 90 points in just 48 games this season. Iginla also added seven goals and five assists in nine playoff games. He is hoping to draw on experience gained at the 2023 Memorial Cup with the Seattle Thunderbirds. While he did not appear in any games during that tournament, he was still able to gain valuable experience from the run. Veterans Carson Wetsch (22G, 50A) and Shane Smith (33G, 35A) are also key pieces of the Rockets attack. Wetsch, the team captain and a San Jose Sharks draft pick, contributed two goals and two assists in eight playoff games. Smith, an overage forward and the winner of the 2026 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy, also posted two goals and two assists in nine playoff games and will be counted on heavily during the tournament. The Rockets also benefited from strong rookie campaigns by Czech forwards Vojtech Cihar (12G, 19A) and Tomas Poletin (20G, 15A). Cihar, a Los Angeles Kings prospect, joined the team following the 2026 World Junior Championship, where he earned tournament MVP honours. He quickly adapted to the Rockets lineup, recording 31 points in 31 games before leading the team in playoff scoring with six goals and seven assists in nine games. Poletin, a New York Islanders draft pick, also made an immediate impact, leading all Rockets rookies with 35 points while adding two goals and three assists during the postseason. Hayden Paupanekis (15G, 22A), a Montreal Canadiens prospect, and Hiroki Gojsic (19G, 22A), drafted by the Nashville Predators, are two more important contributors up front. Paupanekis recorded two goals and three assists in nine playoff games, while Gojsic added one goal and two assists. On the back end, the Rockets are anchored by overage defenceman Mazden Leslie (18G, 50A). Leslie, a veteran of 347 WHL regular season games, is the CHL’s active leader in games played and sits tied for 20th all-time in WHL history. His 258 career points rank first among active WHL defencemen. Leslie’s 68 points this season ranked eighth among WHL blueliners, while his seven game-winning goals were second among league defencemen. He added three assists in nine playoff games. Parker Alcos (5G, 25A), a Vancouver Canucks prospect, and Keith McInnis (10G, 23A) are also important pieces of the Kelowna defence corps. Alcos, who posted a +43 rating that ranked 15th in the WHL, was acquired from the Edmonton Oil Kings at the trade deadline and quickly became a reliable two-way presence. He recorded four assists in nine playoff games. McInnis, acquired from the Red Deer Rebels before the trade deadline, brought a steady defensive game while also contributing offensively with two assists in the playoffs. Rowan Guest (1G, 24A) and Nate Corbet (3G, 11A) provide a physical edge on the blue line. Both players are key parts of Kelowna’s defensive structure and elevated their offensive play during the postseason, each recording one goal and three assists in nine games. The Rockets also received a boost when Peyton Kettles, a 2025 second-round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins, was able to return from an upper-body injury that has kept him out since Nov. 8 last game. In goal, 2026 NHL Draft-eligible netminder Harrison Boettiger (2.83 GAA, .911 SV%) handled the bulk of the workload for Kelowna. His 25 wins were tied for eighth in the WHL, and he was ranked 10th among North American goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting. Boettiger also posted solid playoff numbers, going 4-3 with a 3.06 GAA and a .907 save percentage. Josh Banini (3.35 GAA, .890 SV%) shared duties in the Rockets crease this season, earning 12 wins. Banini elevated his play in the postseason, stopping 82 of the 84 shots he faced against Everett, and will look to carry that momentum into the Memorial Cup. WHERE THEY RANK

Kelowna Rockets: 7th in the Western Hockey League (38-19-6-3)
Chicoutimi Sagueneens: 2nd in the Quebec Maritime Junior Hockey League (49-10-3-2)

Chicoutimi Sagueneens The Chicoutimi Saguenéens are playing in their first Memorial Cup in nearly 30 years after defeating the Moncton Wildcats in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League Final to capture the Gilles-Courteau Trophy as QMJHL Champions. It marked the franchise’s first league championship in 32 years and their first title since 1994. The Saguenéens dropped their opening game of the tournament to the Everett Silvertips by a 5-2 score in their first game at the 2026 Memorial Cup. In the loss, Chicoutimi received goals from Maxim Massé, Christophe Berthelot and Alex Huang, but it was not enough to overcome the Silvertips’ offence, which scored five times to secure the victory. The Saguenéens collected plenty of hardware this season, including the Robert-Lebel Trophy as the QMJHL team with the best defensive average and the Luc-Robitaille Trophy awarded to the league’s top offensive team. Up front, the Saguenéens are led by Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim Massé (51G, 51A), who won the Jean Béliveau Trophy as the QMJHL scoring leader. Massé, who was also named QMJHL Most Valuable Player, finished second in the league with a +62 rating, while his 16 power-play goals and eight game-winning goals also ranked second in the QMJHL. He continued his dominant season in the playoffs with six goals and 18 assists in 20 games. Veteran forwards Thomas Desruisseaux (24G, 52A) and Emmanuel Vermette (27G, 42A) are also key pieces of the Saguenéens’ offence, with both finishing among the league’s top 25 scorers. In 20 playoff games, Desruisseaux recorded three goals and 10 assists, while Vermette added 10 goals and seven assists. Nathan Lecompte (27G, 36A) is another major contributor offensively and enjoyed a strong postseason with seven goals and 13 assists. Anaheim Ducks prospect Émile Guite (32G, 33A) and Mavrick Lachance (23G, 34A) round out the forward core for the Saguenéens. In the playoffs, Guite posted eight goals and six assists, while Lachance added 10 goals and 13 assists. Defensively, the Saguenéens feature a high-scoring blue line with four defencemen reaching the 40-point mark this season. They are led by David-Desharnais Trophy winner and Nashville Predators draft pick Alex Huang (11G, 59A). Huang finished second among QMJHL defencemen in scoring and anchors the Saguenéens’ back end. He continued his success in the playoffs with two goals and 17 assists. Jordan Tourigny (13G, 42A), who was acquired from the Shawinigan Cataractes at the trade deadline, led the blue line in goals and tied for third among QMJHL defencemen in goal scoring. In the playoffs, Tourigny recorded eight goals and eight assists, with his eight goals leading all QMJHL defencemen in postseason scoring. Tourigny previously appeared in the 2022 Memorial Cup with the Cataractes. Tomas Lavoie (10G, 37A) and Peteris Bulans (12G, 28A) also enjoyed strong seasons for the Saguenéens. Lavoie, a Utah Mammoth draft pick, registered three goals and 10 assists in the playoffs, while Bulans contributed seven goals and eight assists during the postseason. In goal, Lucas Beckman (2.60 GAA, .917 SV%), who was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in last year’s NHL Draft, was outstanding all season for the Saguenéens. During the playoffs, Beckman played every minute for Chicoutimi, posting a 16-4 record with a 1.98 GAA and a .918 save percentage. Raphael Précourt (2.43 GAA, .901 SV%) also delivered a reliable season in net, splitting time with Beckman during the regular season. INSIDE THE NUMBERS Kelowna Rockets Memorial Cup History

2003: WHL Champion – Finished 3rd
2004: Host – Memorial Cup Champions
2005: WHL Champion – Finished 4th
2009: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd
2015: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd

Chicoutimi Sagueneens Memorial Cup History

1991: QMJHL Champion – Finished 3rd
1994: QMJHL Champion – Finished 3rd
1997: QMJHL Representative – Finished 4th

Special teams: Regular Season Kelowna: PP 23.1% | PK 80.3% Chicoutimi: PP 32.7% | PK 87.2% Special teams: Playoffs Kelowna: PP 14.7% | PK 79.3% Chicoutimi: PP 31.8% | PK 80% Top Performers: Regular Season Kelowna Rockets:

Tij Iginla: 41 Goals, 49 Assists, 90 Points.
Carson Wetsch: 22 Goals, 50 Assists, 72 Points.
Shane Smith 33 Goals, 35 Assists, 68 Points.

Chicoutimi Sagueneens:

Maxim Masse: 51 Goals, 51 Assists, 102 Points.
Thomas Desruisseaux: 24 Goals, 52 Assists, 76 Points.
Alex Huang: 11 Goals, 59 Assists, 70 Points

Top Performers: Playoffs Kelowna Rockets:

Vojtech Cihar: 6 Goals, 7 Assists, 13 Points.
Tij Iginla: 7 Goals, 5 Assists, 12 Points.
Hayden Paupanekis 2 Goals, 3 Assists, 5 Points.

Chicoutimi Sagueneens:

Maxim Masse: 6 Goals, 18 Assists, 24 Points.
Maverick Lachance: 10 Goals, 13 Assists, 23 Points.
Nathan Lecompte: 7 Goals, 13 Assists, 20 Points

Round-Robin – Game 1 – Friday, May 22 – Kitchener vs. Kelowna (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 2 – Saturday, May 23 – Everett vs. Chicoutimi (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 3 – Sunday, May 24 – Kelowna vs. Chicoutimi (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 4 – Monday, May 25 – Everett vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 5 – Tuesday, May 26 – Chicoutimi vs. Kitchener (6 p.m. PT)
Round-Robin – Game 6 – Wednesday, May 27 – Kelowna vs. Everett (6 p.m. PT)
Tie-Breaker (*if necessary) – Thursday, May 28 (6 p.m. PT)
Semi-Final – Friday, May 29 (6 p.m. PT)
Championship Final – Sunday, May 31 (4 p.m. PT)

KELOWNA ROCKETS The Kelowna Rockets enter the 2026 Memorial Cup looking to replicate their 2004 championship run, when they won the tournament as the host team. The Rockets, who feature eight NHL-drafted players, went 38-21-6-3 during the regular season, finishing fourth in the WHL Western Conference. In the playoffs, they swept the Kamloops Blazers before falling to the eventual WHL champion Everett Silvertips in five games. Kelowna is led offensively by Tij Iginla, the sixth overall pick by the Utah Mammoth, who recorded 41 goals and 49 assists for 90 points in just 48 games this season. Iginla also added seven goals and five assists in nine playoff games. He is hoping to draw on experience gained at the 2023 Memorial Cup with the Seattle Thunderbirds. While he did not appear in any games during that tournament, he was still able to gain valuable experience from the run. Veterans Carson Wetsch (22G, 50A) and Shane Smith (33G, 35A) are also key pieces of the Rockets attack. Wetsch, the teams captain and a San Jose Sharks draft pick, contributed two goals and two assists in eight playoff games. Smith, an overage forward and the winner of the 2026 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy, also posted two goals and two assists in nine playoff games and will be counted on heavily during the tournament. The Rockets also benefited from strong rookie campaigns by Czech forwards Vojtech Cihar (12G, 19A) and Tomas Poletin (20G, 15A). Cihar, a Los Angeles Kings prospect, joined the team following the 2026 World Junior Championship, where he earned tournament MVP honours. He quickly adapted to the Rockets lineup, recording 31 points in 31 games before leading the team in playoff scoring with six goals and seven assists in nine games. Poletin, a New York Islanders draft pick, also made an immediate impact, leading all Rockets rookies with 35 points while adding two goals and three assists during the postseason. Hayden Paupanekis (15G, 22A), a Montreal Canadiens prospect, and Hiroki Gojsic (19G, 22A), drafted by the Nashville Predators, are two more important contributors up front. Paupanekis recorded two goals and three assists in nine playoff games, while Gojsic added one goal and two assists. On the back end, the Rockets are anchored by overage defenceman Mazden Leslie (18G, 50A). Leslie, a veteran of 347 WHL regular season games, is the CHL’s active leader in games played and sits tied for 20th all-time in WHL history. His 258 career points rank first among active WHL defencemen. Leslie’s 68 points this season ranked eighth among WHL blueliners, while his seven game-winning goals were second among league defencemen. He added three assists in nine playoff games. Parker Alcos (5G, 25A), a Vancouver Canucks prospect, and Keith McInnis (10G, 23A) are also important pieces of the Kelowna defence corps. Alcos, who posted a +43 rating that ranked 15th in the WHL, was acquired from the Edmonton Oil Kings at the trade deadline and quickly became a reliable two-way presence. He recorded four assists in nine playoff games. McInnis, acquired from the Red Deer Rebels before the trade deadline, brought a steady defensive game while also contributing offensively with two assists in the playoffs. Rowan Guest (1G, 24A) and Nate Corbet (3G, 11A) provide a physical edge on the blue line. Both players are key parts of Kelowna’s defensive structure and elevated their offensive play during the postseason, each recording one goal and three assists in nine games. The Rockets could also receive a boost if Peyton Kettles, a 2025 second-round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins, is able to return from an upper-body injury that has kept him out since Nov. 8. In goal, 2026 NHL Draft-eligible netminder Harrison Boettiger (2.83 GAA, .911 SV%) handled the bulk of the workload for Kelowna. His 25 wins were tied for eighth in the WHL, and he was ranked 10th among North American Goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting. Boettiger also posted solid playoff numbers, going 4-3 with a 3.06 GAA and a .907 save percentage. Josh Banini (3.35 GAA, .890 SV%) shared duties in the Rockets crease this season, earning 12 wins. Banini elevated his play in the postseason, stopping 82 of the 84 shots he faced against Everett, and will look to carry that momentum into the Memorial Cup. WHERE THEY RANK

Kelowna Rockets: 7th in the Western Hockey League (38-21-6-3)
Kitchener Rangers: 2nd in the Ontario Hockey League (47-14-5-2)

Kitchener Rangers Kitchener Rangers enter the 2026 Memorial Cup after capturing the J. Ross Robertson Cup as Ontario Hockey League champions. The Rangers bring a deep, skilled, and fast roster to the tournament, featuring 12 NHL-drafted players. Kitchener finished first in the OHL Western Conference before dominating the playoffs with a 16-2 record. The Rangers swept the Saginaw Spirit in the opening round before defeating the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in five games and the Windsor Spitfires in another five-game series. They then completed their playoff run by sweeping the Barrie Colts in the OHL Final. Offensively, the Rangers are led by Sam O'Reilly (29G, 42A), a Tampa Bay Lightning prospect who is appearing in his third straight Memorial Cup. O’Reilly began the season with the London Knights before exploding offensively after joining Kitchener, recording 43 points in 28 games with the Rangers. In the playoffs, O’Reilly led the OHL with 17 goals and 28 points in 18 games. He captured both the Red Tilson Trophy as the league’s most outstanding player and the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as playoff MVP. His seven shorthanded goals during the regular season also led the OHL. The Rangers also rely heavily on overage forwards Jack Pridham (46G, 44A) and Dylan Edwards (40G, 47A). Pridham, a Chicago Blackhawks draft pick, was named the winner of the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy as the top overage player in the OHL. In 18 playoff games, he contributed two goals and 15 assists. Edwards, who started the season with the Erie Otters, was another major offensive contributor and carried that success into the playoffs with 14 goals and 11 assists. Christian Humphreys (27G, 58A), a Colorado Avalanche prospect, was another key offensive piece for Kitchener. Humphreys led the team with 58 assists, while his 30 power-play assists ranked first in the OHL. He continued to produce in the postseason, recording nine goals and 13 assists in 18 playoff games. Defensively, the Rangers are anchored by captain Cameron Reid (15G, 41A), a first-round pick of the Nashville Predators. Reid finished sixth among OHL defencemen in scoring during the regular season and added two goals and 14 assists during the playoffs. Overage defenceman Matthew Andonovski (1G, 13A), an Ottawa Senators prospect, began the season with the Belleville Senators of the AHL before returning to Kitchener. Andonovski brings extensive experience and is regarded as one of the OHL’s top defensive defencemen. He was also named the recipient of the Ted Baker Teammate of the Year Award. In 18 playoff games, Andonovski posted three goals and five assists. Jared Woolley (12G, 24A), a Los Angeles Kings prospect who also began the year with the London Knights, is appearing in his third consecutive Memorial Cup. Woolley adds size and offensive ability to the Rangers blue line and recorded one goal and six assists during the playoffs. Draft-eligible defenceman Alexander Bilecki (9G, 20A) rounds out the defensive core, adding two goals and nine assists in 18 playoff games. In goal, Christian Kirsch, a San Jose Sharks draft pick, provided steady play all season long. Kirsch posted a 2.42 goals-against average and .899 save percentage while winning 27 games during the regular season. In the playoffs, he played every minute for Kitchener, finishing with a 16-2 record, a 2.32 GAA and a .900 save percentage. INSIDE THE NUMBERS All-Time Record Kelowna vs. Kitchener 0-1

Game 1: May 21st 2003 - Kitchener wins 4-2.

Kelowna Rockets Memorial Cup History

2003: WHL Champion – Finished 3rd
2004: Host – Memorial Cup Champions
2005: WHL Champion – Finished 4th
2009: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd
2015: WHL Champion – Finished 2nd

Kitchener Rangers Memorial Cup History

1981: OHL Champion – Finished 2nd
1982: OHL Champion – Memorial Cup Champions
1984: Host – Finished 2nd
1990: OHL Representative – Finished 2nd
2003: OHL Champion – Memorial Cup Champions
2008: Host/OHL Champion – Finished 2nd

Special teams: Regular Season Kelowna: PP 23.1% | PK 80.3% Kitchener: PP 26.1% | PK 81.2% Special teams: Playoffs Kelowna: PP 14.7% | PK 79.3% Kitchener: PP 30% | PK 88.7% Top Performers: Regular Season Kelowna Rockets:

Tij Iginla: 41 Goals, 49 Assists, 90 Points.
Carson Wetsch: 22 Goals, 50 Assists, 72 Points.
Shane Smith: 33 Goals, 35 Assists, 68 Points.

Kitchener Rangers

Jack Pridham: 46 Goals, 44 Assists, 90 Points.
Dylan Edwards: 40 Goals, 47 Assists, 87 Points.
Christian Humphreys: 27 Goals, 58 Assists, 85 Points

Top Performers: Playoffs Kelowna Rockets:

Vojtech Cihar: 6 Goals, 7 Assists, 13 Points.
Tij Iginla: 7 Goals, 5 Assists, 12 Points.
Hayden Paupanekis 2 Goals, 3 Assists, 5 Points.

Kitchener Rangers

Sam O’Reilly: 17 Goals, 11 Assists, 28 Points.
Dylan Edwards: 14 Goals, 11 Assists, 25 Points.
Christian Humphreys: 9 Goals, 13 Assists, 22 Points

MEMORIAL CUP BLOODLINES Kelowna Rockets forward Tij Iginla and defenceman Nate Corbet are continuing family legacies at the Memorial Cup. Iginla’s father, Jarome Iginla, won back-to-back Memorial Cups with the Kamloops Blazers in 1994 and 1995. Current Rockets associate coach Don Hay was also behind the bench for both of those championship teams. Corbet’s father, Rene Corbet, also has Memorial Cup experience, having played in the 1991 tournament with the Drummondville Voltigeurs of the QMJHL. UPCOMING SCHEDULE: The Rockets next game will be against the Quebec Maritime Junior Hockey League Champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens. That game will take place Sunday, May 24th, at 6:00pm PST. All Memorial Cup games will be broadcasted on TSN.]]> Kelowna Rockets sign 2026 1st overall pick Madden Daneault https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/kelowna-rockets-sign-2026-1st-overall-pick-madden-daneault Sat, 16 May 2026 17:00:34 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/kelowna-rockets-sign-2026-1st-overall-pick-madden-daneault KELOWNA, BC — The Kelowna Rockets have signed Madden Daneault to a WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement. The Rockets selected Daneault first overall in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft. The 15-year-old forward from Red Deer, Alberta spent the 2025–26 season with the Red Deer Rebels U15 AAA of the AEHL, where he served as the teams captain and led the league in goals (65), assists (84), and points (149) in only 34 regular-season games. He added 22 points (11G, 11A) over nine playoff contests. Daneault also appeared in three games with the Red Deer Chiefs U18 AAA, recording two goals and four assists for six points. The 5'11", 172-pound right-shot forward earned AEHL U15 First All-Star Team honours in both 2024–25 and 2025–26, along with back-to-back John Reid Memorial MVP awards. He was part of the AEHL U15 championship team in 2024–25 and was named Playoff MVP that year aswell. "Madden is an exceptional player. He is highly skilled, competitive, and the kind of kid who makes everyone around him better," said President & General Manager Bruce Hamilton. "Those qualities were on display all season and they're exactly what you look for when you're selecting first overall. We're very pleased to have him signed and we look forward to watching him develop within our program." The Rockets would like to welcome Madden and the Daneault family to Kelowna.]]> Rockets captain Carson Wetsch signs entry-level contract with the San Jose Sharks https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/carson-wetsch-elc Wed, 13 May 2026 16:29:47 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/carson-wetsch-elc KELOWNA, BC — The Kelowna Rockets congratulate Carson Wetsch on signing a three-year NHL Entry Level Contract with the San Jose Sharks. Wetsch, 20, served as captain of the Rockets in 2025–26, posting 22 goals and 50 assists for 72 points in 65 regular-season games. He added four points in eight playoff appearances. The 6'2", 201-pound right wing from North Vancouver, BC was selected by San Jose in the third round, 82nd overall, in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Wetsch spent four seasons in the WHL, beginning his career with the Calgary Hitmen in 2022–23. Over three seasons in Calgary he accumulated 124 points (68G, 56A) in 180 regular-season games, representing Canada at both the 2023 World U17 Hockey Challenge and the 2024 World U18 Championship. The Rockets acquired him from the Hitmen in May 2025, and he turned in his most complete campaign yet. "Carson is a player who earned everything through hard work. He came to Kelowna, took on the captaincy, and was exactly what you'd want from your leader every night. He is hard on pucks, responsible in his own end, and committed to winning," said President & General Manager Bruce Hamilton. "He plays a heavy two-way game and his compete level never wavered all season. Four years in this league has prepared him well and we couldn't be happier to see him rewarded with an NHL contract." Wetsch's signing marks the third NHL Entry Level Contract signed by a Kelowna Rocket this season, joining Vojtech Cihar (Los Angeles Kings) and Peyton Kettles (Pittsburgh Penguins). In total, five current Kelowna Rockets have signed ELC's — Wetsch, Cihar, Kettles, Tij Iginla (Utah Mammoth), and Hiroki Gojsic (Nashville Predators).]]> Kelowna Rockets Select Eleven Players in the 2026 WHL Draft https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/2026-whl-draft-recap Fri, 08 May 2026 01:35:26 +0000 Paige Bednorz https://chl.ca/whl-rockets/article/2026-whl-draft-recap KELOWNA, BC — The Kelowna Rockets are proud to announce their selections from the 2026 Western Hockey League Prospects Draft, adding eleven promising young players to the organization's pipeline. The Rockets made selections across thirteen rounds, highlighted by the first overall pick in the draft. ROUND 1 — 1st OVERALL Madden Daneault | Forward | Red Deer, AB The Kelowna Rockets selected forward Madden Daneault with the first overall pick in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft. The 15-year-old from Red Deer, Alberta was the consensus top prospect in this draft class after a historic season with the Red Deer Rebels U15 AAA in the AEHL, recording an astonishing 65 goals and 84 assists for 149 points in 34 games, leading the entire league in goals, assists, and points. Daneault earned AEHL U15 First All-Star Team honours in back-to-back seasons (2024-25 and 2025-26), was named Playoff MVP in 2024-25, and won both MVP and Top Forward at the John Reid Memorial in consecutive years. He also stood out at the Alberta Cup, recording 13 points in 5 games for Team Alberta Black. A right-shooting forward standing 5'11" and 175 lbs, Daneault brings elite offensive production and exceptional hockey sense to the Rockets' prospect pool. ROUND 3 — 52nd OVERALL Cole Chudyk | Forward | Lamont, AB The Rockets selected forward Cole Chudyk in the third round. The 15-year-old from Lamont, Alberta skated for the Calgary IHA U15 Prep in the CSSHL, posting 14 goals and 18 assists for 32 points in 24 games. Chudyk was part of a CSSHL U15 Champion squad in 2025-26 and also saw time with the Calgary IHA U17 Prep. He was a key contributor at the John Reid Memorial (7 points in 5 games) and helped Team Alberta Black at the Alberta Cup. A right-shooting forward at 5'8" and 154 lbs, Chudyk adds skill and a championship pedigree to the Rockets' forward group. ROUND 4 — 78th OVERALL Luke Trann | Defenseman | Prince Albert, SK Kelowna added blue-line depth by selecting Luke Trann in the fourth round. The 14-year-old left-shooting defenseman from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan is one of the bigger players in the draft class at 6'1" and 165 lbs. Trann spent the 2025-26 season with the Prince Albert Pirates U15 AA in the SAAHL, putting up 7 goals and 28 assists for 35 points in 22 regular season games, demonstrating excellent offensive instincts for a defender. He added 6 assists in 8 playoff games. Trann's combination of size and playmaking ability makes him an intriguing long-term defensive prospect. — TRADE ALERT — Prior to the 6th Round, the Kelowna Rockets acquired pick #122 from the Tri-City Americans in exchange for Kelowna's 2027 6th Round Pick (via Seattle). The Rockets immediately used the selection on... ROUND 6 — 122nd OVERALL Zachary Martin | Defenseman | Maple Grove, MN With their first sixth-round pick, the Rockets selected American defenseman Zachary Martin. The 15-year-old left-shooting blueliner from Maple Grove, Minnesota played for the MN Walleye 14U AAA in the MNHP, recording 3 goals and 9 assists for 12 points in 16 games. Standing 5'9" and 161 lbs, Martin brings an American flavour to the Rockets' defensive pipeline. ROUND 6 — 132nd OVERALL Cohen Short | Forward | Kelowna, BC (Local Pick) The Rockets stayed close to home with their second sixth-round selection, picking Kelowna-born forward Cohen Short. The 15-year-old played for the Okanagan HA U15 Prep in the CSSHL, scoring 17 goals and 19 assists for 36 points in 29 games. Short took his season to the next level when he joined the Okanagan HA U17 AAA team for the playoffs, where he went on to win a CSSHL U17 AAA Championship. He added 3 goals and 1 assist in 2 playoff games at the U17 level and represented Team Green at the BC U16 Cup. A right-shooting forward at 5'11" and 146 lbs, Short is a proven winner who will be a familiar face to Kelowna. ROUND 7 — 161st OVERALL Jacob Fleming | Goaltender | Huntington Beach, CA Kelowna selected goaltender Jacob Fleming in the seventh round, adding American netminding depth to the organization. The 14-year-old from Huntington Beach, California played for the Dallas Stars Elite 14U AAA, posting a strong 2.76 GAA and .913 save percentage over 35 games (27-8-0 record) in the 14U AAA circuit. Fleming stands 5'10" and 141 lbs, and made three starting appearances at the US 14U National Championships with the Stars. ROUND 8 — 178th OVERALL Jace Williams | Forward | Cawston, BC (Okanagan Local) The Rockets added another local product in the eighth round, selecting Cawston, BC native Jace Williams. The 14-year-old forward already stands at 6'4" and 155 lbs. Williams skated for the Okanagan HA U15 Prep in the CSSHL, recording 6 goals and 6 assists for 12 points in 20 games, and added 3 points in 4 playoff games. He also represented Team Teal at the BC U16 Cup, scoring twice in four games. Williams' extraordinary size and local roots make him an exciting pick for Rockets fans in the Okanagan. ROUND 10 — 224th OVERALL Jasper Schelter | Defenseman | Calgary, AB Kelowna selected defenseman Jasper Schelter in the tenth round. The 14-year-old holds dual USA/Canada citizenship, born in Denver, Colorado but raised in Calgary, Alberta. Schelter played for STAR Hockey Academy U15 Prep in the CSSHL, where he racked up 76 penalty minutes in 30 games, demonstrating a physical, competitive edge. He also played 3 games with the STAR Hockey Academy U17 Prep. Standing 5'11" and 154 lbs, Schelter's gritty, defensive-minded game adds a different dimension to the Rockets' blue-line depth chart. Jasper is a younger brother to former Kelowna Rockets forward Luke Schelter. ROUND 11 — 247th OVERALL Jayden Ni | Forward | Vancouver, BC In the eleventh round, the Rockets selected Vancouver-born forward Jayden Ni. The 15-year-old played for St. George's School U15 Prep in the CSSHL, posting an impressive 28 goals and 31 assists for 59 points in 30 games, earning CSSHL U15 Second All-Star Team (BC) recognition. He also appeared twice with the St. George's U17 Prep squad. Standing 5'9" and 145 lbs, Ni's offensive instincts and point production late in the draft make him an excellent value pick for the Rockets. ROUND 12 — 270th OVERALL Taylor Mowbray | Forward | St. Albert, AB The Rockets selected forward Taylor Mowbray with their twelfth-round pick. The 14-year-old from St. Albert, Alberta had a strong season with the KC Squires U15 AAA in the AEHL, recording 35 goals and 46 assists for 81 points in 34 games, earning AEHL U15 Second All-Star Team honours. He added 12 points in 10 playoff games and contributed 9 points in 5 games for Team Alberta Gold at the Alberta Cup. A left-shooting forward at 5'9" and 141 lbs, Mowbray's high-end production in the ultra-competitive AEHL makes him one of the steals of this draft. ROUND 13 — 293rd OVERALL David Ring | Forward | Kenora, ON Kelowna closed out their draft by selecting forward David Ring in the thirteenth round. The 14-year-old from Kenora, Ontario, played for RINK HA Winnipeg U15 Prep in the CSSHL, notching 10 goals and 16 assists for 26 points in 26 games, while also making an appearance with RINK HA Winnipeg U17 AAA. He added 6 points in 5 John Reid Memorial games. A left-shooting forward standing 5'11" and weighing 162 lbs, Ring rounds out a deep Rockets draft class. ROCKETS' 2026 DRAFT SELECTIONS AT A GLANCE

Round	Pick	Player	Pos.	Hometown
1	1st Overall	Madden Daneault	F	Red Deer, AB
3	52nd Overall	Cole Chudyk	F	Lamont, AB
4	78th Overall	Luke Trann	D	Prince Albert, SK
6	122nd Overall	Zachary Martin	D	Maple Grove, MN
6	132nd Overall	Cohen Short	F	Kelowna, BC
7	161st Overall	Jacob Fleming	G	Huntington Beach, CA
8	178th Overall	Jace Williams	F	Cawston, BC
10	224th Overall	Jasper Schelter	D	Calgary, AB
11	247th Overall	Jayden Ni	F	Vancouver, BC
12	270th Overall	Taylor Mowbray	F	St. Albert, AB
13	293rd Overall	David Ring	F	Kenora, ON

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