The Western Hockey League successfully concluded the initial round of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft through an online process May 11th, 2023. With the first-overall pick, the Prince Albert Raiders strategically chose defenseman Daxon Rudolph (Lacombe, Alta. / Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 Prep) to reinforce their roster. Continuing their shrewd selections, the Raiders opted for forward Riley Boychuk from the Airdrie Xtreme U15 AAA program, a promising talent hailing from Cochrane, Alberta, with their second-overall pick. Demonstrating their astuteness for talent, the Spokane Chiefs made an impactful choice by selecting forward Mathis Preston (Penticton, B.C. / Okanagan Hockey Academy U15 Prep) with the third-overall selection in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft.
Among the 22 players chosen, the distribution consisted of 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and one goaltender. Alberta provided eight of the selected players, while British Columbia contributed seven, Saskatchewan had four, and Manitoba had three representatives. Remarkably, the first round featured 12 players from the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) teams. I would of made the suggestion of Prince Albert drafting one of the Ruck twins and Jacobsen with the first 2 picks, and employing them as potential trade assets, such an outcome would have been amusing🍿🍿🤪 . Here is a break down of the first round.
1. Daxon Rudolph D Northen Alberta Xtreme U15 Prep
Lacombe, AB 6’0 179 March 6th, 2008
Daxon Rudolph, a talented defenseman from Lacombe, Alberta, has been selected as the first overall pick in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft by the Prince Albert Raiders. Rudolph’s impressive offensive skills, showcased during his 50-point season with the Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 Prep team, earned him this prestigious recognition. Born in 2008, Rudolph is known for his hockey IQ, puck-moving abilities, and exceptional skating skills. The Raiders wasted no time in signing Rudolph to a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement, emphasizing their commitment to his development and the team’s success. Rudolph’s contributions extend beyond the draft, as he played a key role in NAX’s championship victory in the CSSHL U15 playoffs. With his sights set on the future, Rudolph plans to continue honing his skills before transitioning to the WHL full-time in the fall of 2024
#2. Riley Boychuk F Airdrie Xtreme U15
Cochrane, AB 5’10 146 January 31st, 2008
Riley Boychuk, an impressive forward from the Airdrie Xtreme U15 AAA team, has been selected by the Prince Albert Raiders as the second overall pick in the WHL Prospects Draft. Boychuk’s outstanding performance, including 80 points in 33 games and leading the league in assists, earned him recognition as the AEHL’s top forward, MVP, and playoff MVP. With his signing, Boychuk becomes the second player from the draft to join the Raiders, adding depth and promise to the team. His playmaking abilities, high hockey IQ, and aspiration to contribute to the team’s success align well with the organization’s goals.
#3. Mathis Preston F Okanagan HA U15
Penticton, B.C. 5’11 157 July 21st, 2008
Preston, a talented 5-foot-11 forward from Penticton, B.C., showcased his skills during the 2022-23 season with Okanagan Hockey Academy U15 Prep. In just 26 games, he demonstrated his scoring prowess by amassing an impressive 81 points, consisting of 45 goals and 36 assists. Additionally, Preston made a significant impact in the playoffs, contributing 10 points with seven goals and three assists in four games. His outstanding performance earned him recognition as the U15 Prep Division MVP and a third-place finish in CSSHL scoring.
#4. Keaton Verhoeff D Rink Hockey Academy Kelowna U15
Fort Saskatchewan, AB 6’3 190 June 19th, 2008
The Victoria Royals proudly selected Keaton Verhoeff as the fourth overall pick in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Verhoeff, a talented defenseman from Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, showcased his skills with RINK Hockey Academy Kelowna U15 Prep, tallying an impressive 46 points in 27 games during the 2022-23 season. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 191 pounds, Verhoeff became the second highest player chosen in Royals franchise history. He ranked first in CSSHL U15 Defenceman Scoring for 2023 WHL Draft Eligible players and exhibited his abilities on the RINK Hockey Academy Kelowna U16 and U18 teams. The Royals’ Assistant General Manager, J.F. Best, expressed their satisfaction with Verhoeff’s selection, emphasizing his outstanding character, work ethic, and skills as a defenseman. The organization eagerly looks forward to welcoming Verhoeff and his family to the Royals family.
#5. Jaxon Jacobsen LW Brandon Wheat Kings U18 AAA
Brandon, MB 5’8 150 December 11th, 2008
The Brandon Wheat Kings made a significant addition to their team during the annual Western Hockey League draft by selecting forward Jaxon Jacobson as their first pick. At just 14 years old, Jacobson stood out as the second under-18 AAA Wheat Kings player to compete as an underager. He was chosen as the fifth overall pick, consistent with several draft projections. Notably, Jaxon is the son of Wheat Kings owner Jared Jacobson. The young athlete shared his excitement upon seeing his name on the WHL website’s draft tracker and expressed his determination to prove himself as the top player in his draft class
#6. Ryan Lin D Delta Hockey Academy U15 Prep G
Richmond, B.C. 5’11 152 April 18th, 2008
The Vancouver Giants have chosen Ryan Lin, a 2008-born defenseman from Richmond, B.C., as the sixth overall selection in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Lin, standing at 5’11”, showcased his skills with the Delta Hockey Academy U15 G team, recording an impressive 41 points from 17 goals and 24 assists in 27 games, along with 14 penalty minutes. He also made appearances with the U17 team, contributing four assists in four games. The Giants Head Scout expressed excitement about Lin’s abilities, praising his speed, high hockey IQ, point shot, and ability to utilize his teammates effectively. This marks the third consecutive year that the Giants have chosen a player from the Delta Hockey Academy in the first round of the WHL Draft, although their General Manager clarifies that they are not exclusively targeting players from the academy. The Giants have established connections with the Delta Hockey Academy, including former Giants strength and conditioning coach Ian Gallagher, which provides them with valuable insights into the development system. Lin, hailing from Richmond and weighing 152 pounds, demonstrated his talent by producing impressive offensive numbers in his time with Delta Hockey Academy’s Under-15 Prep team
#7. Ty Meunier F St. Albert Sabres U15 AAA
St. Albert, AB 5’8 146 August 16th, 2008
The Prince Albert Raiders selected 14-year-old Ty Meunier as the seventh overall pick, impressed by his outstanding performance with the U15 AAA St. Albert Sabres, where he scored 54 goals and 34 assists in just 32 games. Meunier signed with the Raiders and expressed his excitement to join the team. He plans to try out for the St. Albert U18AAA while maintaining his dedication to hockey. The Raiders signed Meunier to a WHL standard player agreement, recognizing his exceptional talent. He led the league in points and goals and made an impact in various tournaments.
#8. Brett Olsen C St. Albert Raiders U18 AAA
Spruce Grove, AB 6’1 165 February 24th, 2008
Vancouver Giants have selected of forward Brett Olson (Spruce Grove, AB) as the eighth overall pick in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Standing at 6’2″, Olson showcased his skills with the St. Albert Raiders U18 AAA, recording 30 points in 35 games during the previous season. The Giants praised Olson’s strategic positioning, skill, and determination, affirming his potential as a valuable asset to the Vancouver Giants.
#9. Liam Ruck F Okanagan HA U15 Prep
Osoyoos, B.C. 5’11 150 February 21st, 2008
The Medicine Hat Tigers have selected Liam Ruck as the ninth overall pick in the Western Hockey League prospects draft, adding a skilled goal-scorer to their team. Ruck, a 15-year-old forward from the Okanagan Hockey Academy U15 team, impressed with 53 goals and 90 points in 27 games. Tigers Head Coach and General Manager praised Ruck’s intelligence on the ice, highlighting his ability to score goals and perform under pressure. The Tigers’ focus on fast-paced play and goal-scoring made Ruck an ideal choice. Additionally, Ruck’s twin brother Markus also excelled on the Okanagan team, contributing 22 goals and 87 points in 27 games.
#10- Brek Liske D Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 Prep
Beausejour, MB 6’1 174 January 9th, 2008
Beausejour native, Brek Liske, was chosen as the 10th overall pick in the highly-anticipated 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Displaying remarkable talent, Liske accumulated an impressive 36 points (10 goals, 24 assists) in 26 regular season games while representing the Northern Alberta Xtreme. Moreover, his notable performance continued into the post-season, where he contributed 11 points in five games, ultimately aiding his team in clinching the CSSHL U15 championship. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 170 pounds, Liske’s exceptional skills were recognized with a well-deserved Second-Team All-Star designation for the CSSHL U15 Prairie Division during the 2022-23 season. The Tips praised Liske’s abilities, asserting that he is undoubtedly among the top-tier defensemen in his age group. They further expressed confidence in Liske’s well-rounded game, emphasizing his capacity to make significant contributions in all three zones. It is evident that Liske’s future presence on the ice, adorned in a Silvertips jersey, holds great promise
#11. Noah Kosick C Pacific Coast Academy U18 Prep
Victoria, B.C. 5’6 106 August 18th, 2008
Lots had Kosick ranked 1st. Size may of been a big factor (no pun meant). Well get to see alot of him when they play the Rebels. The Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club proudly announced the selection of Noah Kosick as the 11th overall pick in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Hailing from Kassel, Germany, and raised in Victoria, BC, Kosick showcased his exceptional skills as a centerman with the Pacific Coast Academy U18 Prep, accumulating 45 points in 32 games during the 2022-23 season. Additionally, Kosick’s outstanding performance in the previous season earned him the CSSHL U15 scoring title with an impressive 96 points in 29 games. Praised for his hockey sense, vision, passing ability, and overall talent, Kosick demonstrates a deep passion for the game and an unwavering commitment to reaching the highest levels of success
#12. Joe Iginla F RINK Hockey Academy Kelowna U15P
Lake Country, B.C. 5’10 148 August 13th, 2008
Joe Iginla, hailing from Lake Country, BC, emerged as a prominent talent during the recent season while playing for the U15 Prep Rink Hockey Academy in Kelowna. Displaying remarkable skills, he secured the sixth position in the CSSHL scoring rankings, amassing an impressive 65 points (37 goals, 28 assists) in just 27 games. In the post-season, Iginla continued to shine, contributing 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists) in five games. Weighing in at 148 pounds and standing at 5-foot-10, this winger possesses a strong lineage, as the son of former NHL player and 2020 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, Jarome Iginla, who hails from St. Albert. It is worth mentioning that Joe’s older brother, Tij, was also drafted highly in the 2022 Bantam Draft, chosen at the ninth overall position by the Seattle Thunderbirds before being recently traded to the Kelowna Rockets
#13. Cruz Pavao F Edge School U15 Prep
Calgary, AB 5’10 183 August 24th, 2008
Pavao, a native of Calgary, Alberta, has displayed exceptional skills over the past two seasons at Edge School. Standing at five-foot-ten and weighing 183 pounds, he earned recognition as the league’s MVP while playing for the U15 Varsity team in the 2021-22 season, recording an impressive 50 points in 29 games. Moving to the U15 prep team in the subsequent season, Pavao continued to shine, leading his team with 67 points (32 goals, 35 assists) in just 23 games, ranking fifth in the CSSHL U15 league. Additionally, he made notable contributions in the post-season with five goals and six assists in four games. Furthermore, Pavao demonstrated his versatility by joining Edge School’s U18 team, recording one goal and one assist while playing alongside American’s top picks from the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft Jackson Smith and Cash Koch.
#14. Dayne Beuker C Humboldt Broncos U15 AA
Humboldt, SK 5’8 150 March 23rd, 2008
With the 14th overall pick in the first round, the Hurricanes made a notable selection by choosing forward Dayne Beuker. Hailing from Humboldt, SK, Beuker had an outstanding season with the Humboldt Broncos U15 team in 2022-2023. His impressive statistics included 103 points (47 goals, 56 assists) in just 30 regular season games, along with 10 penalty minutes. In the post-season, Beuker continued to excel with 28 points (9 goals, 11 assists) and four penalty minutes in nine games. Praising Beuker’s abilities, One Hurricanes Scout emphasized his ranking as one of the top forwards on their draft list, highlighting his leadership qualities and game-changing presence on the ice. Beuker’s achievements in the SAAHL U15 league were equally notable, as he finished second in scoring, goals, and assists. Additionally, he played a significant role in leading the Humboldt Broncos to the SAAHL Championship, averaging an impressive 3.11 points per game in the playoffs. Overall, Beuker’s exceptional skills and comprehensive package make him a valuable addition to the Hurricanes, with the potential to become a top player in the league
#15. Carson Carels D Pilot Mound Academy U15 Prep
Cypress River, MB 5’11 161 June 23rd, 2008
The Prince George Cougars made a significant choice with their first pick in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, selecting Carson Carels from Cypress River, MB. Carels, a Manitoba-born defenceman, showcased his offensive abilities while playing for the Pilot Mound Academy U15 club. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 160 pounds, he recorded impressive numbers of 10 goals and 22 assists in 32 regular season games, along with three goals and nine assists in four playoff games. Carels also made contributions to Pilot Mound’s U17 team, accumulating four points in five games, including three playoff matchups. Recognizing his potential, the Cougars chose Carels as their first-round pick, 15th overall, in the draft. His exceptional season with the Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Buffaloes U-15 Prep included 13 goals and 31 assists in 24 games, ranking him 11th in Canadian Sports School Hockey League scoring. Carels’ offensive capabilities and consistent performance make him a promising addition to the Prince George Cougars, bolstering their defensive lineup with potential impact
#16. Aaron Sawatzky D Airdrie Xtreme U15 AAA
Didsbury, AB 5’10 168 May 18th, 2008
The Moose Jaw Warriors made a strategic decision to strengthen their defensive lineup by selecting defenceman Aaron Sawatzky with their first pick in the 2023 Western Hockey League Prospects Draft. Sawatzky, hailing from Didsbury, Alta., played for the Airdrie Xtreme of the Alberta Elite Hockey League. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 168 pounds, Sawatzky showcased his skills in 33 games last season, contributing 10 goals and 38 points. He continued to impress during the playoffs, adding another goal and eight points in nine games. Prior to that, Sawatzky recorded six goals and 19 points in the previous season. Known for his versatility as a two-way defenceman, he is praised for his smooth skating and excellent transition game. The Warriors’ general manager expressed excitement about adding Sawatzky to their talented defensive core, joining the likes of Marek Howell and Connor Schmidt, who were previously selected in the top rounds of the drafts in 2021 and 2022 respectively. With this strategic choice, the Moose Jaw Warriors aim to fortify their defensive strength for the years to come
#17. Griffin Darby D Swift Current Broncos U15 AA
Swift Current, SK 6’0 150 September 26th, 2008
With their first pick of the day, the Portland Winterhawks made an astute choice by selecting Griffin Darby from the Swift Current Broncos U15 AA program. Hailing from Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Darby served as the team captain for the Broncos during the 2022-23 season. Standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing 150 pounds, this smooth-skating defenseman displayed exceptional skills, leading all defensemen in scoring with six goals and 29 assists, accumulating 35 points in 28 games. Notably, this marks the Winterhawks’ first selection of a defenseman in the first round since Derrick Pouliot was chosen as the first overall pick in the 2009 WHL Prospects Draft. Commenting on the selection, scouts highlighted Darby’s impressive attributes, including his size, skating ability, creativity, and leadership qualities. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that Griffin Darby is the younger brother of Winterhawks forward Hudson Darby, who was previously drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft
#18. Beckett Hamilton F Humboldt Broncos U15 AA
Humboldt, SK 5’8 150 March 28th, 2008
Beckett Hamilton, an outstanding player from his hometown U15AA Broncos, delivered an exceptional season that contributed to the team’s provincial championship victory. In 29 regular season games, Hamilton showcased his skills by scoring an impressive 39 goals and accumulating 83 points. Furthermore, his performance in the playoffs was nothing short of remarkable, as he elevated his game with 21 goals and 33 points in nine contests. Hamilton’s remarkable achievements placed him second in team points, trailing only Dayne Beuker, who was selected 14th overall by the Lethbridge Hurricanes in the recent draft after amassing an impressive 103 points, including 47 goals. Notably, Hamilton has deep connections to the world of hockey, with his father Lee having played in the WHL from 1993 to 1997 and his great uncle Bruce Hamilton serving as the owner, president, and general manager of the Kelowna Rockets.
#19. Giorgos Pantelas D RINK Hockey Academy Kelowna U15P
Victoria, B.C. 6’3 185 April 24th, 2008
The Brandon Wheat Kings made a strategic move in the first round of the draft, selecting defenseman Giorgos Pantelas with the 19th overall pick. Pantelas, who played for the RHA Kelowna U15 Prep team, brings a combination of size, strength, and exceptional skating abilities to the team. Hailing from Victoria, Pantelas’s hockey journey began in Montreal before his family settled in Vancouver Island. With a hockey-oriented background and the support of his father, Pantelas developed a passion for the game at an early age. The Wheat Kings’ selection of Pantelas demonstrates their recognition of his potential and their belief in his abilities as he enters the next chapter of his hockey career
#20. Caine Wilkie F Saskatoon Stallions U15 AA
Saskatoon, SK 5’8 150 March 1st, 2008
Also seen him as Caine Wilke. Wilke, a highly skilled ’08-born center, was chosen as the 20th overall pick in the 2023 WHL Draft. Hailing from Saskatoon, SK, Wilke showcased his exceptional abilities as a playmaker and goal scorer during the 2022-23 season with the Saskatoon Stallions U15 AA team. In 29 regular season games, he impressively recorded 28 goals and 43 assists, leading his team with a staggering 31-point advantage. Furthermore, Wilke’s exceptional performance continued into the postseason, where he contributed a team-leading 12 points in four games. Prior to his time with the Stallions, Wilke demonstrated his talent with the Saskatoon Bandits U15 AA team in the 2021-22 campaign, amassing 22 goals and 21 assists in 26 games. His instrumental role in the Bandits’ success earned him 17 points in nine postseason games, ultimately leading the team to a SAAHL U15 league championship.
#21. Markus Ruck F Okanagan HA U15 Prep
Osoyoos, B.C. 5’10 146 February 21st, 2008
The Tigers made some trades with the Blades and got this pick. With their newly acquired pick, the Tigers selected Markus, the older twin of the talented duo. Standing at 5-foot-10, Markus showcased his exceptional skills on the ice, tallying an impressive 22 goals and 87 points in just 27 games. The significance of Medicine Hat’s decision to trade up and select him did not go unnoticed by Markus, as he expressed his excitement and gratitude, highlighting the presence of his family during the draft. He acknowledged the team’s immense support and expressed his eagerness to join the Tigers, emphasizing the special connection he feels with the organization.
#22. Carter Esler G Okotoks Oilers U15 AAA
Okotoks, AB 5’9 134 November 28th, 2008
The Spokane Chiefs made a notable selection in the first round of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft by choosing goaltender Carter Esler with the 22nd overall pick. Described as an athletic and technically proficient goalie, Esler brings a competitive spirit and a calming presence to the team. Hailing from Okotoks, Alberta, the five-foot-nine netminder had an impressive season with the Okotoks Oilers U15 AAA, boasting a 2.98 GAA and .925 SV% in 21 games. He carried his strong performance into the playoffs, earning a 7-1-1 record and a .936 SV%, including a shutout. Esler’s exceptional play also earned him recognition as a 2023 Alberta Cup All-Star following his team’s victory in the tournament. Notably, Esler holds the distinction of being the highest-ever draft pick for the Spokane Chiefs and the first goaltender selected in the first round. His selection joins forward Mathis Preston as the Chiefs’ first-round picks for the 2023 draft