WHL Season Update
As the second weekend of the WHL season approaches, hockey fans can expect to see many well-known players return to the ice. Following their stints at NHL training camps, a number of standout athletes are making their way back to the Western Hockey League for the 2025-26 season. This influx of talent highlights the ongoing relationship between the NHL and junior leagues, which often allows young players to hone their skills further when not on NHL rosters.
Returning Players by Team
- Brandon Wheat Kings: Brady Turko (Anaheim Ducks), Carter Klippenstein (Minnesota Wild)
- Calgary Hitmen: Brandon Gorzynski (Dallas Stars), Axel Hurtig (Calgary Flames)
- Edmonton Oil Kings: Blake Fiddler (Seattle Kraken), Max Curran (Colorado Avalanche), Adam Jecho (St. Louis Blues)
- Everett Silvertips: Julius Miettinen (Seattle Kraken), Tarin Smith (Anaheim Ducks), Shea Busch (Florida Panthers)
- Kamloops Blazers: Tommy Lafreniere (Edmonton Oilers), Nathan Bhem (Chicago Blackhawks)
- Kelowna Rockets: Tomas Poletin (New York Islanders), Nate Corbet (Los Angeles Kings), Hiroki Gojsic (Nashville Predators), Mazden Leslie (Vegas Golden Knights)
- Medicine Hat Tigers: Kadon McCann (Calgary Flames), Nillio Muhonen (Dallas Stars), Jordan Switzer (Calgary Flames), Veeti Väisänen (Utah Mammoth)
- Portland Winterhawks: Max Pšenička (Utah Mammoth)
- Prince Albert Raiders: Max Heise (San Jose Sharks)
- Prince George Cougars: Corbin Vaughan (New York Rangers), Josh Ravensbergen (San Jose Sharks)
- Red Deer Rebels: Jaxon Fuder (Dallas Stars), Chase Wutzke (Minnesota Wild)
- Saskatoon Blades: Evan Gardner (Columbus Blue Jackets), David Lewandowski (Edmonton Oilers)
- Seattle Thunderbirds: Coster Dunn (Utah Mammoth)
- Swift Current Broncos: Joshua McGregor (Carolina Hurricanes)
- Tri-City Americans: Charlie Elick (Columbus Blue Jackets), Jaxen Adam (Edmonton Oilers), Cash Koch (Minnesota Wild)
- Vancouver Giants: Cameron Schmidt (Dallas Stars), Burke Hood (New York Islanders)
- Wenatchee Wild: Blake Vanek (Ottawa Senators)
Looking Ahead
As the league progresses, these key players will certainly play a pivotal role in shaping their teams’ performance. Fans are encouraged to stay connected with the WHL through The Hockey News and their favorite local news platforms for ongoing updates, insights, and exciting interviews throughout the season.
Some notable highlights from the current season include rankings of Edmonton, Spokane, Everett, and Kelowna among the top ten teams, along with players like Ryan Lin of the Vancouver Giants making impactful team contributions. Keep an eye out for further announcements and game analyses as the season unfolds!
