Keaton Verhoeff Named Finalist for Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy for Rookie of the Year

Victoria, B.C. – The Western Hockey League announced today that Royals defenceman Keaton Verhoeff has been named a finalist for the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy for Rookie of the Year.

The 16-year-old defenceman appeared in 63 games this season where he recorded 21 goals and 24 assists for 45 points. Verhoeff, who hails from Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, set a new Royals franchise record with the most goals by a defenceman in a single season with 21. He also places third all-time in goals scored by a 16-year-old defenceman in the WHL, with the most since 1985.

Verhoeff, who stands at 6’4 and 212lbs, was drafted fourth overall by the Royals in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft.