Saskatoon, Sask., – The list of accolades for Saskatoon Blades defenceman Brayden Klimpke is already long ahead of his 19-year-old Western Hockey League (WHL) season.

The Calgary, AB native can now add wearing the “C” for one of the Canadian Hockey League’s (CHL) most historic franchises to the list.

Klimpke was named the 65th captain in franchise history on Thursday, capping off what’s been an eventful offseason for the left-handed shot. Klimpke was awarded the team’s annual Most Valuable Player Award in May, drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the fourth round (#117 overall) at the NHL Entry Draft in June, and was named Tempo WHL Player of the Week on Monday after five points (3G, 2A) through the first two games of the season.

Serving alongside Klimpke as alternate captains include 20-year-old winger Hunter Laing, Toronto Maple Leafs draft pick Cooper Williams, and Martensville, SK’s own Kazden Mathies.

“It’s going to be a fun year, we have a special group in here this year,” said Klimpke. I’m looking forward to it, and I’m excited.”

Klimpke was drafted by the Blades in the fourth round (70th overall) at the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft. The 6-foot blueliner has dressed in 142 career games with the Blue and Gold, scoring 11 goals and 70 assists. Klimpke enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, leading the Blades’ back end in scoring with 47 points (4G, 43A) in a full 68-game slate.

“When we drafted Brayden, he was 5-foot-4 and 98 pounds, and it’s been incredible to watch his development and maturity over the last four years.” said Blades General Manager and President Colin Priestner. “He has turned into one of the elite defencemen in the Canadian Hockey League and he leads every day by example. Character and hard work are the pillars of everything he does.”

The previous two captains Tyler Parr and Ben Saunderson broke the news in front of the whole team prior to Thursday’s practice. A five-year Blade, Parr says he’s watched Klimpke grow up so much since arriving in the Bridge City.

“He’s an unbelievable player and unbelievable guy. He’s going to be there for you through whatever, whether it’s hockey related or not, you can go to him.”

Averaging well over 30 minutes of ice time in the 2026 WHL Playoffs, Klimpke added a goal and four assists in 11 games, all while shutting down opposing teams’ top offensive threats. The exceptional play of the Habs draft pick was crucial in Saskatoon’s Round 1 victory over the Edmonton Oil Kings, defeating Edmonton 3-2 in Game 7 overtime at Rogers Place for the first Game 7 road victory in the franchise’s history.

Klimpke’s first game as captain is Friday, Sept. 25 at the Art Hauser Centre against the Prince Albert Raiders at 7:00 p.m. The Blades started the season 0-1-1-0 despite the blistering offence through opening weekend, which saw ten goals scored across two games.

Fans can welcome the new captain on Saturday, Sept. 26 at SaskTel Centre for the Go Merlin Ford Lincoln Home Opener against Prince Albert. The pre-game party featuring live music begins at 4:00 p.m., followed by red carpet entrances from our coaches and players at 4:30 p.m. Puck drop is 7:00 p.m.

The Saskatoon Blades Home Opener presented by Go Merlin Ford Lincoln is on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 7:00pm vs. the Prince Albert Raiders. Single game tickets are on sale NOW! Purchase yours HERE today.