In the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft, the Red Deer Rebels executed a strategic plan to bolster their roster with a mix of size, skill, and grit, addressing key needs for future success. The Rebels expressed immense satisfaction with their selections, emphasizing the addition of defensemen with physicality and mobility who can log significant ice time, as well as forwards with offensive flair and two-way reliability. Their draft haul included players expected to develop into pivotal contributors, particularly in high-stakes playoff scenarios, with a focus on natural goal-scorers, hard-hitting defensemen, and a promising goaltender to solidify their future between the pipes.
A standout pick was Nolan Wolitski, a six-foot-three, 179-pound defenseman from St. Albert, selected seventh overall in the first round. The Rebels were thrilled to find Wolitski available, describing him as a big, strong player with growth potential, strong hockey sense, and a mean streak. His ability to play heavy minutes in all situations, combined with his offensive output of nine goals and 40 assists in 48 games, made him a prized addition. Similarly, second-round picks Chase Turchak, a dynamic five-foot-10 winger with 52 points in 32 games, and Owen Archer, a six-foot-two defenseman with a blend of puck-moving ability and physicality, further strengthened the roster. Turchak’s forechecking and playmaking, along with Archer’s knack for moving the puck and delivering tough play, underscored the Rebels’ focus on versatile, impactful players.
The Rebels also addressed their goaltending depth by selecting Chase Nielson in the third round, a netminder from Fort McLeod with a 3.67 goals-against average and .923 save percentage. Endorsed by goaltending coach Ian Gordon, Nielson is seen as a potential starter with room to grow under expert guidance. Additional selections, such as Dylan Russell, a lanky center with playmaking ability, and Denys Lupandin, a hard-hitting defenseman from Saskatoon, added depth and character to the draft class. The Rebels’ later picks, including skilled forward Sawyer Holmes and two-way talent Soren Saumweber, reflected their commitment to players who fit their hard-nosed, competitive style. Overall, the Rebels believe their 2025 draft class has laid a strong foundation for sustained success, blending physicality, skill, and hockey IQ to meet both immediate and long-term needs.
2/30- Chace Turchak– C -5’10 – 146 – 02/06/10 – Calgary Bisons U15 AAA – Calgary, AB
Red Deer selected Chace Turchak 30th overall, with its first of two second-round draft choices. The Calgary native had 52 points in 32 games with the U15 AAA Calgary Bisons in the Alberta Elite Hockey League this past season.
“The Turchak kid we took from the Calgary Bisons we really loved him all year and his game got better every time we saw him. He was noticeable and took over the game. He’s so strong on the forecheck, finishes all of his checks, and he’s got great hockey sense,” Novakoski said. “He causes a lot of turnovers and creates chances for his linemates. We’re very excited to have him.
2/32- Owen Archer– D – 6’3 – 205 – 07/28/10 – St. Albert Sabres U15 AAA – Stony Plain, AB
Owen Archer, a second-round pick at 32nd overall, stands at an imposing 6’2” and 189 pounds. During the past season with the U15 AAA St. Albert Sabres, he recorded three goals, 19 assists, and 68 penalty minutes in just 19 regular-season games due to suspensions. In the playoffs, he stepped up, contributing four goals and seven assists in nine games.
“He’s a big player who skates well, handles the puck effectively, and shows strong hockey IQ,” Novakoski remarked. “He’s got a gritty edge to his game, which we love. We couldn’t believe he was still available at our pick. Despite missing some games, his physicality and skill set make him a standout. We’re thrilled to have him.”
3/56- Chase Nielsen – G – 02-10-10- Lethbridge Golden Hawks U15 AAA- Fort MacLeod, AB
The Red Deer Rebels selected goaltender Chase Nielson in the third round, 56th overall. Rebels goalie coach Ian Gordon identified Nielson as one of the top goaltenders in this year’s draft, according to the team.
“Drafting a goalie this early is a significant decision, but we have full confidence in Ian’s ability to shape Chase into an outstanding starting goaltender for our league,” the Rebels stated. “Ian’s proven success with goaltenders speaks volumes, and he was incredibly excited to secure Chase in the third round. That excitement reflects the high potential we see in him.”
Nielson appeared in 24 games for the U15 AAA Lethbridge Golden Hawks last season, delivering a strong .923 save percentage and a 3.67 goals-against average.
4/76 – Dylan Russell – 6’1 – 152 – 01-14-10- Winnipeg Wild U15 AAA – Winnipeg, MB
5/99 – Denys Lupandin – D – 5’10 – 170 – 01-12-10- Saskatoon Outlaws U15 AA – Saskatoon, SK
5/106 – Sawyer Holmes – F – 5’9 – 134 – 08-06-10- SSAC Lions U15 AAA – Edmonton, AB
6/122 – Soren Saumweber – F – 5’10 – 150 – 12-15-10 – Shattuck St. Mary’s 14U AAA – Roseville, MN
8/168- Bronx Becker – F – 6’0 – 165 – 11-24-10- Saskatoon Outlaws U15 AA – Saskatoon, SK
9/191 – Ryan Overskei – D – 6’5 – 187 – 05-18-10- Maple Grove, MN- Osseo-Maple Grove Bantam AA
10/214 – Andrew Nordstrom – 6’0 – 165 – 01-04-10 – Leduc Oil Kings U15 AAA – Beaumont, AB
