Western Hockey League - Feed

VP Sports & Entertainment presents: 2024 WHL Champion Calvert signs on with Pittsburgh Penguins

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000

Atley Calvert could barely get the words out as cheers rained down from the stands in the Temple Gardens Centre. Sure, the Moose Jaw Warriors had been a solid team, but few had expected them to knock off the regular-season champion Saskatoon Blades in the Eastern Conference Championship, let alone sweep the powerhouse Portland Winterhawks in the Championship Series. But they did. And Calvert, the hometown boy in his final season of WHL eligibility, had played a key role in bringing the Warriors their first WHL Championship in franchise history. "I can't even describe it," Calvert said. "So much work has gone into this. We've been together for the past four years and to see it all come to an end like this is something truly special." https://twitter.com/TheWHL/status/1789481241168720009 In the two seasons since, Calvert has continued to put in the work- and it's paying off. The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed the 22-year-old to a two-year, entry-level contract, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Kyle Dubas announced Wednesday. It's a big step forward for the 6-foot-1, 194-pound forward who broke into professional hockey as an undrafted free agent. Calvert is coming off his first full season with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he posted 16 goals (including one game-winner and a shorthanded strike) and 22 assists for 38 points and a +19 rating in 70 games. He finished sixth on the team in points and goals while ranking fourth in assists and plus/minus. In the Calder Cup Playoffs, Calvert chipped in another six points (3G-3A) in 15 outings. https://twitter.com/TheAHL/status/2061854975039258692 His rookie pro season saw him split time between the AHL and the ECHL's Wheeling Nailers. Calvert's dogged mentality stretched back to his junior hockey days, where he made the Warriors as an undrafted skater. He went on to carve out an important role for the team, logging 105 goals and 115 assists for 220 points over 237 games in parts of five seasons. Calvert's final season saw him crack the 2024 WHL East Division Second All-Star Team after a 95-point (47G-48) campaign. The 2024 WHL Playoffs saw him step up again with 20 points (8G-12A) in 20 games, where Moose Jaw developed a reputation for wild multi-goal comebacks. Calvert had a goal and two assists as the Warriors stormed back from a 4-2 deficit to defeat Brandon 5-4 in overtime in Game 2, and assisted the overtime goal in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Championship to send his team to the big dance. He signed an AHL deal with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton just weeks after the end of the WHL Playoffs and Memorial Cup.

Tigers sign Osgood to WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:56:41 +0000

Medicine Hat, Alta - The Medicine Hat Tigers are proud to announce the signing of 2011-born forward Max Osgood (Plymouth, MI) to a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. "Osgood is a smart, agile forward with quickness and slippery skill. He’s hard on pucks, possesses strong vision, and reads the ice well. A detail-oriented player who competes at both ends of the rink." said Assistant General Manager Bobby Fox. "We are really excited with this signing and see Max as a key piece to our team moving forward." The 5-foot-9 center was drafted 21st overall in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft. In his 2025-26 campaign with the Little Caesars 14U AAA of the MAHA 14U league he totalled 43 points in 20 games and capped off his season with the league championship. "Max is an elite two-way player that we expect to be a big part of our future." said General Manager and Head Coach Willie Desjardins. "The Osgood name is a special name in Tigers history and we are really excited to have Max sign with us." Max's father, Chris Osgood, was a goaltender for the Tigers from 1988 to 1992. He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the third round (54th overall) of the 1991 NHL Draft, and went on to be one of the greats in Red Wings history. Across 744 NHL games Osgood totalled 401 wins and 50 shutouts, posting a .905 save percentage and 2.49 goals against average. Osgood is a three-time Stanley Cup Champion and a two-time winner of the William M Jennings Trophy. The Tigers are excited to welcome Max to the organization and look forward to his continued development as part of Medicine Hat’s growing core of young talent.

Rockets sign defenceman Dane Sorensen to WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:40:48 +0000

Kelowna, B.C. — The Kelowna Rockets have signed 2007-born defenceman Dane Sorensen to a WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement. Earlier this offseason, the Rockets acquired Sorensen's rights from the Victoria Royals. Sorensen, 19, is a 6'1", 183-pound left-shot defenceman from Los Angeles, California. He spent the 2025-26 season split between the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL and the Brooks Bandits of the BCHL. In Sioux Falls, the blue-liner established himself as a physical presence, posting 91 penalty minutes in 41 games. After moving to Brooks, he recorded a goal and eight assists for nine points in 12 regular-season games before taking his play to another level in the postseason. Sorensen added a goal and four assists for five points and 32 penalty minutes in 13 playoff games, averaging close to 19 minutes a night during the Bandits' championship-clinching final series against the Nanaimo Clippers, helping Brooks claim the 2025-26 BCHL title. The season prior, Sorensen won the US 18U National Tier I Championship with Shattuck-St. Mary's 18U Prep, giving him back-to-back championship seasons entering his WHL career. Sorensen's path to this point runs through one of the most respected development programs in North American hockey. He spent five seasons at Shattuck-St. Mary's from the 14U AAA level through the 18U Prep program, accumulating 261 games of experience and consistent growth at each level before stepping into junior hockey. That foundation has produced a player who is reliable and detailed in his own end, strong on the puck, physical in front of the net, and difficult to play against. He is an effective penalty killer who uses his size, leverage, and active stick to disrupt opponents' plays. While his defensive game is his calling card, he has shown the ability to contribute offensively and move the puck efficiently out of his own zone. "Dane is the type of defenceman that makes your team harder to play against," said President & General Manager Bruce Hamilton. "He's physical, he competes every shift, and he has a high hockey IQ in his own end. The experience he has from winning championships in back-to-back seasons tells you about the competitor he is. We are excited to get him to Kelowna." Sorensen previously played alongside Rockets goaltender Harrison Boettiger on the Shattuck-St. Mary's 14U AAA program during the 2021-22 season, an existing connection that should help ease his transition into the organization.

WHL clubs select 44 players from nine nations in 2026 CHL Import Draft

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 23:31:26 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – The Western Hockey League announced today that 44 players have been selected from nine different nations by WHL Clubs through the 2026 CHL Import Draft, which was completed online on Tuesday. The contingent includes nine players who have been drafted by NHL teams, including Josh Floris (Vancouver Giants / Nashville Predators), Zeb Lindgren (Red Deer Rebels / New York Rangers), Vladimir Proskurin (Victoria Royals / St. Louis Blues), Mikhail Cherepanov (Kamloops Blazers / Dallas Stars), Jakob Leander (Calgary Hitmen / Calgary Flames), Arvid Drott (Medicine Hat Tigers / Florida Panthers), Samuel Hrenak (Moose Jaw Warriors / Winnipeg Jets), Noel Pakarinen (Penticton Vees / Vegas Golden Knights) and Reko Alanko (Seattle Thunderbirds / Utah Mammoth). The 2026 CHL Import Draft featured new rules which allow 20-year-old import players to be selected in any round. Sixteen-year-old import players are only eligible to be chosen in the first round. WHL clubs may only roster one 16-year-old import player per season, and that player can’t be traded or replaced during their 16-year-old season. The 2026 CHL Import Draft saw 21 WHL teams select one 2006-born player, 12 2007-born players, 18 2008-born players, 11 2009-born players and two 2010-born players. Czechia led the way with 16 players selected, followed by Finland and Russia with eight apiece, five from Slovakia, three from Sweden, and one player from Latvia, Germany, Kazakhstan and Austria. The three-round draft takes place online with the order of selection rotating through each of the CHL’s three leagues – the WHL, the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Import players developed through the Western Hockey League have seen tremendous success both in the WHL and at the NHL Draft. The 2026 NHL Draft saw 2026 WHL Champion and Memorial Cup All-Star Team member Matias Vanhanen (Everett Silvertips) selected 37^th overall in the second round by the New Jersey Devils after going undrafted in his first season of eligibility. Vanhanen is one of seven import WHLers drafted in 2026, joining Jakub Vanecek (Tri-City Americans / Dallas Stars), Michal Orsulak (Prince Albert Raiders / Detroit Red Wings), Yaroslav Bryzgalov (Medicine Hat Tigers / Vancouver Canucks), Marek Sklenicka (Seattle Thunderbirds / Philadelphia Flyers), Tobias Tvrznik (Wenatchee Wild / Colorado Avalanche) and Filip Ruzicka (Brandon Wheat Kings / Minnesota Wild). The CHL Import Draft saw WHL Clubs select 27 forwards, 14 defencemen and three goaltenders. For complete results from the 2026 CHL Import Draft, please visit: CHL.ca/draft. 2026 CHL Import Draft – WHL Selections First Round 3. Lethbridge Hurricanes: Dominick Radim Byrtus (D) – Czechia – 5’10” / 190 lbs. – April 20, 2009 6. Everett Silvertips (from Swift Current): Dario Blengino (LW) – Czechia – 6’0” / 168 lbs. – Feb. 20, 2009 9. Vancouver Giants: Jakub Floris (D) – Slovakia – 6’3” / 194 lbs. – Feb. 18, 2008 12. Tri-City Americans (from Wenatchee): David Huk (C) – Czechia – 6’2” / 206 lbs – Nov. 9, 2008 15. Moose Jaw Warriors: Rasmus Kamarainen (LW) – Finland – 5’11” / 176 lbs. – June 4, 2007 18. Regina Pats (from Red Deer): Ossi Tukio (D) – Finland – 6’2” / 186 lbs. – Nov. 2, 2007 21. Swift Current Broncos (from Tri-City): Yuri Vlasenko (D) – Austria – 6’2” / 170 lbs. – July 18, 2010 24. Red Deer Rebels (from Regina): Zeb Lindgren (D) – Sweden – 6’1” / 198 lbs. – April 13, 2007 27. Victoria Royals: Vladimir Proskurin (G) – Russia – 6’1” / 170 lbs. – May 27, 2008 30. Portland Winterhawks: Max Melicherik (RW) – Slovakia – 6’2” / 183 lbs. – Nov. 27, 2010 33. Kelowna Rockets (from Seattle): Jakub Frolo (C) – Czechia – 6’1” / 194 lbs. – Dec. 4, 2007 36. Spokane Chiefs: Matej Tomanek (LW) – Czechia – 5’8” / 171 lbs. – Sept. 20, 2008 39. Kamloops Blazers: Mikhail Cherepanov (D) – Russia – 6’2” / 188 lbs. – Feb. 14, 2008 42. Saskatoon Blades: Martin Psohlavec (G) – Czechia – 6’5” / 183 lbs. – May 5, 2008 45. Brandon Wheat Kings: Kristof Muissu (RW) – Russia – 6’3” / 214 lbs. – Aug. 21, 2006 48. Calgary Hitmen: Jakob Leander (D) – Sweden – 6’4” / 196 lbs. – Feb. 2, 2007 51. Edmonton Oil Kings (from Kelowna): Lukas Kachlir (D) – Czechia – 5’8” / 150 lbs. – Sept. 4, 2009 54. Saskatoon Blades (from Prince George): Yegor Gusev (LW) – Russia – 6’0” / 165 lbs. – April 23, 2007 56. Edmonton Oil Kings: Jonas Vanicek (C) – Czechia – 6’0” / 168 lbs. – April 5, 2009 58. Victoria Royals (from Penticton): Marek Peroutka (C) – Czechia – 6’4” / 192 lbs. – Nov. 27, 2007 59. Medicine Hat Tigers: Arvid Drott (RW) – Sweden – 6’0” / 187 lbs. – Aug. 10, 2007 60. Prince Albert Raiders: Oskars Luks (D) – Latvia – 6’5” / 215 lbs. – Oct. 11, 2008 61. Everett Silvertips: Atte Vuori (C) – Finland – 5’11” / 167 lbs. – Jan. 22, 2008 Second Round 64. Lethbridge Hurricanes: Oliver Sichtar (RW) – Czechia – 6’4” / 195 lbs. – March 1, 2008 67. Swift Current Broncos: Oliver Torkki (RW) – Finland – 6’1” / 193 lbs. – March 2, 2008 70. Vancouver Giants: Oliver Botka (D) – Slovakia – 6’2” / 171 lbs. – April 1, 2009 73. Medicine Hat Tigers (from Wenatchee): Dennis Pasler (D) – Russia – 6’5” / 204 lbs. – April 21, 2008 76. Moose Jaw Warriors: Samuel Hrenak (G) – Slovakia – 6’3” / 190 lbs. – March 18, 2008 82. Calgary Hitmen (from Tri-City): Artyom Katsuro (LW) – Russia – 6’0”. 167 lbs. – Jan. 1, 2009 85. Regina Pats: Tomas Cermak (D) – Czechia – 6’3” / 190 lbs. – June 28, 2008 88. Penticton Vees (from Victoria): Noel Pakarinen (LW) – Finland – 6’2” / 200 lbs. – July 8, 2008 91. Swift Current Broncos (from Portland): Stepan Farushev (LW) – Russia – 6’5” / 161 lbs. – Nov. 30, 2009 94. Seattle Thunderbirds: Reko Alanko (D) – Finland – 6’6” / 203 lbs. – July 14, 2007 97. Spokane Chiefs: Jonas Schwarz (C) – Germany – 5’11” / 166 lbs. – April 9, 2009 100. Kamloops Blazers: Yegor Kravchenko (LW) – Kazakhstan – 5’11” / 157 lbs. – Dec. 4, 2008 103. Saskatoon Blades: Alexander Sapozhnikov (D) – Russia – 6’6” / 209 lbs – Jan. 16, 2007 106. Brandon Wheat Kings: Ilari Kapanen (LW) – Finland – 5’11” / 161 lbs. – June 11, 2007 112. Seattle Thunderbirds (from Kelowna): Dominik Ripa (C) – Czechia – 5’9” / 164 lbs. – Sept. 6, 2008 117. Edmonton Oil Kings: Olli Wahlroos (LW) – Finland – 6’1” / 188 lbs – Feb. 14, 2008 119. Penticton Vees: Dominik Drabek (RW) – Czechia – 5’11” / 183 lbs. – March 20, 2009 Third Round 125. Lethbridge Hurricanes: Oliver Vanha (C) – Czechia – 6’3” / 187 lbs – April 21, 2009 146. Regina Pats: Samuel Karsay (LW) – Slovakia – 6’1” / 172 lbs. – March 11, 2008 158. Spokane Chiefs: Jan Brabenec (C) – Czechia – 6’4” / 181 lbs. – Oct. 1, 2007 173. Kelowna Rockets: Petr Hornig (RW) – Czechia – 5’10” / 165 lbs. Oct. 14, 2009 About the Western Hockey League Regarded as the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players, the Western Hockey League (WHL) head office is based in Calgary, Alberta. The WHL consists of 23 member Clubs with 17 located in Western Canada and six in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. A member of the Canadian Hockey League, the WHL has been a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League for over 50 years. The WHL is also the leading provider of hockey scholarships with over 375 graduates each year receiving WHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice. Each season, WHL players also form the nucleus of Canada’s National Junior Hockey Team.

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2026 WHL Player Tracker: NHL Development Camps

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 23:10:23 +0000

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

Medicine Hat, Portland complete trade involving Flames prospect Mace’o Phillips

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:43:54 +0000

Medicine Hat, Alta - The Medicine Hat Tigers have acquired 2007-born defenceman Mace'o Phillips from the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for a third-round pick in 2027 and a fifth-round pick in 2029. Phillips, a 6-foot-6, 234-pound defenceman was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the third round (80th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft. The Wayzata, Minnesota native tallied 11 points in 44 games with the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL during the 2025-26 season.

Western Hockey League announces 2026-27 Regular Season schedule

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:00:25 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – The Western Hockey League announced today the 782-game schedule for the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season.

All 23 WHL Clubs will compete in a 68-game regular season, beginning Friday, September 18, 2026, and concluding Sunday, March 28, 2027.

For the second consecutive regular season, Victory+ will serve as the exclusive streaming provider for the WHL, giving fans FREEaccess to all 782 WHL regular season games.

The opening night of the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season will feature five games, with the Brandon Wheat Kings hosting the Saskatoon Blades, Calgary Hitmen welcoming the Red Deer Rebels, Lethbridge Hurricanes facing the Medicine Hat Tigers, Prince Albert Raiders taking on the Regina Pats, and Prince George Cougars rolling out the welcome mats for the Penticton Vees.

The defending WHL Champion Everett Silvertips open their title defense Saturday, September 19, when the Portland Winterhawks visit Angel of the Winds Arena in downtown Everett.

The 2026 CHL USA Prospects Challenge will be hosted by the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League in Chicoutimi and Quebec City, Que., on December 1 and 2, 2026.

The 2027 WHL Prospects Game, set to be hosted in Brandon, Man., by the Brandon Wheat Kings, is scheduled for Wednesday, February 17, 2027.

A total of 628 games on the WHL Regular Season schedule – over 80 per cent – will be played on weekends or holidays. By focusing the schedule on weekends and holidays, along with extending the WHL Regular Season calendar by one week, WHL Clubs can further enhance the WHL player experience by allowing additional time for training and skill development, as well as academic enrichment.

The 782-game WHL Regular Season schedule concludes Sunday, March 28, 2027, with two games in the Central Division as the Edmonton Oil Kings welcome the Red Deer Rebels and the Medicine Hat Tigers host the Lethbridge Hurricanes.

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.

About the Western Hockey League

Regarded as the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players, the Western Hockey League (WHL) head office is based in Calgary, Alberta. The WHL consists of 23 member Clubs with 17 located in Western Canada and six in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. A member of the Canadian Hockey League, the WHL has been a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League for over 50 years. The WHL is also the leading provider of hockey scholarships with over 375 graduates each year receiving WHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice. Each season, WHL players also form the nucleus of Canada’s National Junior Hockey Team.

State of the Western Hockey League – June 2026

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:01:45 +0000

Calgary, Alta. – WHL Commissioner Dan Near issued today the following State of the Western Hockey League update following the successful conclusion of the 2025-26 WHL season, including changes to the WHL schedule and travel regulations aimed at improving the overall WHL Player Experience in response to feedback received directly through a survey of WHL players.

SUCCESSES, 2025-26

WHL continues to thrive in its local communities

More than 3.2 million fans attended regular season WHL games this year, representing a 4% increase from 2024-25. The WHL averaged 4,144 attendees per game in the regular season, representing the highest average attendance of any Junior League in the world.

WHL enjoys strong showing at 2026 NHL Draft

With four WHL players being selected in the top 10, the WHL led the way early in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft. Of the first 100 players selected, 23 hailed from the WHL. The next highest total from any development league was the Ontario Hockey League with 16.

Overall, the WHL saw 37 current players and two alumni selected in the 2026 NHL Draft, with the mark of 39 serving as the WHL’s best total in over 15 seasons, since 43 players were selected in the 2010 NHL Draft.

WHL on Victory+ sets records in 2025-26

The first regular season of the WHL on Victory+ was a resounding success, with average regular season viewership increasing by over 50 per cent year over year.

The 2026 WHL Playoffs on Victory+ saw a 63-per-cent jump in average viewership, with WHL Playoff action generating audiences rivalling that of historical linear cable broadcasts.

WHL on Victory+ is set to return FOR FREE once again in 2026-27.

Kelowna Rockets host sold out Memorial Cup presented by Kubota

The 2026 Memorial Cup presented by Kubota was a smashing success in Kelowna, B.C., with every game of the tournament sold out at Prospera Place.

Hosted in conjunction with the CHL’s 50th Anniversary Season, the sport of hockey congregated in the beautiful Okanagan and enjoyed fantastic weather and competitive hockey featuring the WHL Champion Everett Silvertips, OHL Champion Kitchener Rangers, QMJHL Champion Chicoutimi Sagueneens, and host Kelowna Rockets.

Everett Silvertips win franchise-first WHL Championship

In May, the Everett Silvertips capped a historic season by hoisting the Ed Chynoweth Cup for the first time in franchise history, defeating the Eastern Conference champion Prince Albert Raiders in five games.

Seattle Kraken prospect Julius Miettinen was named WHL Playoff MVP, finishing tied for the lead in playoff scoring with 27 points.

WHL stars secure Canadian Hockey League Awards in June

Four representatives from the WHL came home with hardware from the 2026 CHL Awards in Toronto earlier this month.

Medicine Hat Tigers defenceman and Montreal Canadiens prospect Bryce Pickford was named CHL Defenceman of the Year, while Everett Silvertips Head Coach Steve Hamilton was presented with the CHL Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. Medicine Hat Tigers forward Markus Ruck was crowned CHL Top Scorer, while Portland Winterhawks forward Alex Weiermair was named CHL Scholastic Player of the Year.

2026 WHL Prospects Game presented by Showpass

The brand-new WHL Prospects Game made its debut in Langley, B.C., with 40 NHL Draft-eligible prospects putting on an entertaining showcase in front of hundreds of NHL scouts and a near sold-out crowd at the Langley Events Centre, home of the Vancouver Giants, while tens of thousands more watched free on Victory+.

Team East defeated Team West in overtime, thanks to Prince Albert Raiders defenceman Daxon Rudolph, who scored the game-winning goal. The product of Lacombe, Alta., went on to be the first defenceman selected in the 2026 NHL Draft, when he was chosen by the Buffalo Sabres with the fourth-overall pick.

WHL Scholarship

The 2025-26 campaign served as the 33rd year of the WHL Scholarship program. This season, 370 WHL graduate players have been awarded WHL Scholarships, representing an investment of over $40 million by WHL Clubs. This season, WHL Clubs have contributed nearly $3 million to the 370 WHL graduates utilizing the WHL Scholarship.

Administered by the WHL Office, WHL Scholarships are solely funded by WHL member Clubs. Every player who plays in the WHL is eligible to receive the WHL Scholarship. For every season played in the WHL, players receive a guaranteed, full year of WHL Scholarship, including tuition, textbooks, and compulsory fees to a post-secondary institution of their choice. The WHL Scholarship is a full guaranteed academic scholarship with no requirement to play university hockey to qualify.

NEW FOR 2026-27

One week extension of WHL Regular Season Schedule

Beginning with the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season, the WHL regular season schedule will extend by one week. The decompressed schedule will create additional rest and recovery for players, opportunity for additional strength and conditioning, and support the athletes’ educational priorities.

The 2026-27 WHL Regular Season begins Friday, September 18, and will end one week later than has been historically scheduled. The final day of the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season will be contested Sunday, March 28, 2027.

The 2027 WHL Playoffs are scheduled to begin Wednesday, March 31. The WHL tiebreaker game will no longer be used to break a tie for the eighth seed in a conference.

The decision to decompress the WHL schedule was approved by the WHL Board of Governors and WHL General Managers in association with a variety of initiatives to continue to augment the WHL Player Experience, to enhance player development, and to adapt to the changing hockey landscape.

Air Travel for Select Road Games

Beginning with the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season, WHL Clubs will be permitted to travel via air for one (1) set of road games to start and return home, under the following parameters:

Trip by bus must be greater than 10 hours;
Applies to out-of-conference travel only

The decision to allow WHL Clubs to fly for one (1) set of road games was approved by the WHL Board of Governors in association with a variety of initiatives to continue to augment the WHL Player Experience, to enhance player development, and to adapt to the changing hockey landscape.

‘No Return’ Three-on-Three Overtime Pilot

The 2026 WHL Preseason will feature a pilot project aimed at enhancing the fan experience of three-on-three overtime.

Under the ‘No Return’ three-on-three overtime format, once a team has gained the blueline, a player cannot deliberately carry, pass, or shoot the puck outside the blueline. Should this occur, play will immediately be whistled down (unless the opposing team collects the puck first) and the resulting face-off will occur in the defensive zone of the offending team with no line change permitted. The team benefitting from the offensive zone faceoff will have the opportunity to select which circle the faceoff occurs in.

‘No Return’ three-on-three overtime has been contemplated in early anticipation of changing coaching strategies during three-on-three overtimes that are highly conservative and may potentially reduce the excitement of the extra period. Key measures for this pilot will include the number of shot attempts and scoring chances in overtime and the percentage of game outcomes determined by overtime prior to a shootout.

All 2026 WHL Preseason games, regardless of final score, will feature ‘No Return’ three-on-three overtime to allow all Clubs the opportunity to pilot the rule.

Following the 2026 WHL Preseason, WHL General Managers will vote on the implementation of ‘No Return’ Three-on-Three Overtime for the 2026-27 WHL Regular Season.

First Round of WHL Playoffs – Best-of-Five Series

Beginning in 2027, the first round of the WHL Playoffs will be contested as best-of-five series.

To accommodate the extra week in the regular season, this change will allow the playoffs to be completed on its existing schedule for the WHL Champion to participate in the Memorial Cup.

The WHL Playoffs will begin Wednesday, March 31, 2027, and the first-round format will vary based on the geography of the competing teams, availability of facilities, and preferences of the higher-seeded Club. The following formats are currently approved, pending WHL approval of each instance:

1-2-1-1 (A-H-A-H)
2-3 (A-H) for longer distance series
2-2-1 (H-A-H)
1-1-1-1-1 (H-A-H-A-H) for close distance series only

H = Home A = Away

About the Western Hockey League

Thunderbirds, Rockets complete trade involving blueliner Owen Hayden

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:44:49 +0000

Vancouver Giants announce Michael Dyck as Head Coach & General Manager

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:05:33 +0000

Ladner, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants announced today the hiring of Michael Dyck as the club’s next Head Coach and General Manager. Dyck returns to the Giants after spending the past three seasons as an Assistant Coach with the American Hockey League’s Toronto Marlies, where he recently helped the club capture the 2026 Calder Cup. He becomes the first person in franchise history to hold the dual role of Head Coach and GM. "Michael has been an important part of the Giants family for many years, and we couldn’t be more pleased to bring him back in this expanded role,” Giants Majority Owner and President Ron Toigo said. “He knows what it takes to build a winning culture. His experience, character and commitment to player development make him the ideal person to guide our team both behind the bench and in the front office as we enter the next chapter of Giants hockey.” The appointment marks a return to familiar territory for Dyck, who previously served as the Giants’ Head Coach from 2018-23. His history with the organization also includes stints as an assistant coach (2002-05), scout (2009-10) and director of player development (2010-12). “It’s an honour to return to this organization as GM and Head Coach,” Dyck said. “We have a clear vision for how we want to play and the type of identity we want to create. We’re focused on establishing a culture built on development, professionalism and consistent performance. I’m looking forward to getting to work with our players, staff and community.” A native of Lethbridge, Alta., Dyck brings 19 seasons of WHL coaching experience to the role. During his previous tenure with the Giants from 2018-23, Dyck guided Vancouver to the 2019 WHL Championship Series and helped engineer one of the most memorable playoff upsets in league history when the eighth-seeded Giants defeated the top-seeded Everett Silvertips in the opening round of the 2022 WHL Playoffs. He compiled a regular-season record of 144-120-17-7 and a playoff mark of 21-17 during his five seasons behind the bench. In addition to his WHL experience with Vancouver, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Kootenay, Dyck has represented Canada on multiple occasions, winning gold medals at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship and the 2021 IIHF Men's World Championship, as well as silver medals at the 2021 WJC, the 2019 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and the 2016 Youth Olympic Games. As a player, Dyck spent five seasons in the WHL from 1985-89 with the Calgary Wranglers, Brandon Wheat Kings and Regina Pats. The Vancouver Giants organization extends a warm welcome back to Michael, his wife Charlene and their three children: Bailey, Carson and Brennan.

Season Tickets for the 2026-27 season are available now!