Carels grew up in Cypress Hill, Manitoba, and developed his skills playing for the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL. In his second season, he scored an impressive 20 goals and accumulated 73 points. These stats have positioned him firmly in the conversation for a top-10 pick.

Throughout the season, Carels showcased his two-way capabilities—his strong skating ability and left-handed shot make him a valuable asset on the ice. He also served as Captain of Team West at the 2026 WHL Top Prospects game, further highlighting his leadership qualities.

As analysts project him potentially going as high as second overall, Carels has expressed a clear desire: “A lot of people have asked me what team or who I would want to go to; I think any Canadian team is definitely at the top of the list,” he stated. His ambition reflects not just personal goals but a longing for Canadian hockey’s resurgence.

This narrative is significant for multiple reasons:

• Carels’ performance this season has drawn attention from several Canadian teams, including the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks.
• The Stanley Cup’s absence from Canada since 1993 weighs heavily on fans and players alike.
• His success could inspire future generations of Canadian hockey players.

As we approach the draft, anticipation grows around where he will land. Will it be with one of Canada’s storied franchises? Or perhaps another team looking to rebuild? Either way, Carson Carels is ready to make his mark on the game.

Fans eagerly await news about the draft’s outcome. The stakes are high—not just for Carels but for all of Canadian hockey.

The post Carson Carels: The Future of Canadian Hockey appeared first on News Canada.

The 2026 NHL Draft is starting to come into focus with teams eliminated from the playoffs. Reid, a right-shot defenceman from the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL), stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 195 pounds. His size and skill set make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their defensive lines.

Reid has garnered significant attention from scouts and analysts alike. Dave Hall, a prominent hockey analyst, remarked, “Reid’s got that dynamic vision and that dynamism in his game.” He believes that Reid could run a top power play—an essential asset for any team aiming for success.

Furthermore, Hall added, “This is a guy who’s going to run a top power play; he’s going to be your number one offensive defenceman as a right-hand shot.” Such endorsements highlight Reid’s potential impact at the professional level.

The San Jose Sharks hold the No. 2 pick in this year’s draft, positioning them well to select Reid if they choose to prioritize defensive talent. Meanwhile, Gavin McKenna is projected as the first overall pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs, indicating that teams are strategizing heavily around their needs for both forwards and defensemen.

As observers look ahead, it’s clear that Chase Reid’s trajectory will significantly influence team decisions during the draft. His combination of size, skill, and strategic insight makes him a coveted player this season.

The post Chase Reid: The Rising Star Expected to Dominate the NHL Draft appeared first on News Canada.

Hayes Hundley has officially signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, a move that highlights his promising trajectory in professional hockey. The 21-year-old defenceman from Upper Arlington, OH, will join the Toronto Marlies on an amateur tryout for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

During the 2025-26 season, Hundley showcased his skills at St. Thomas University, posting 12 points with six goals and six assists over 38 games. His performance earned him a spot on the 2025-26 CCHA All-Rookie Team, a testament to his impact on the ice.

Prior to his time at St. Thomas, Hundley played for the Fargo Force in the USHL, where he recorded 16 points, including four goals and 12 assists, in 58 regular season games during the 2024-25 season. This experience has been crucial in shaping his development as a right-handed defenceman.

Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, Hundley brings a formidable presence to the ice. His journey began with the Ohio Blue Jackets AAA program, followed by a stint with the Johnston Tomahawks of the NAHL, where he honed his skills before making the leap to collegiate hockey.

As he transitions to the professional level, observers are keen to see how Hundley adapts to the pace and intensity of the AHL. His previous accolades and solid performance at the collegiate level suggest he has the potential to make a significant impact.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, known for their commitment to developing young talent, will be watching Hundley closely as he joins the Marlies. This opportunity could be a pivotal moment in his career, setting the stage for a future in the NHL.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding Hundley’s specific role with the Marlies and how quickly he will integrate into the team dynamics. However, his recent achievements indicate that he is ready for the challenges ahead.

The post Hayes Hundley Signs Entry-Level Contract with Toronto Maple Leafs appeared first on News Canada.