A prediction of who will take year-end WHL awards as of the end of November.
Welcome to the 2023-24 WHL awards prediction series. At the end of every month, we will dive into the stats and name a favourite for each WHL award. Here is a look at the awards as of the end of November.
Ed Chynoweth Cup (WHL Champions)- Portland Winterhawks
While it is close, the Portland Winterhawks remain the team to beat in the WHL. Not only do they have a dynamic offence that has scored 108 goals in 23 games, but they sit second in the league with just 68 goals allowed. One of the deepest teams in the league that is getting contributions from everyone in the lineup, they are the favourites to represent the WHL at this year's Memorial Cup.
Four Broncos Trophy (WHL Player of the Year), Jagger Firkus, Moose Jaw Warriors
Jagger Firkus continues to dazzle this season. The Seattle Kraken prospect leads the league with 43 points in 24 games and has already eclipsed the 20-goal mark for the third straight season. Expect him not just to be invited to Canada's World Junior camp but be included on the team headed to Sweden in the next month.
Bob Clarke Trophy (Top Scorer)- Zac Funk, Prince George Cougars
Zac Funk has developed into one of the best players in the WHL. Currently sitting at 43 points in 25 games, the Prince George Cougars forward is the league leader in power play goals with 16. For reference, no one else in the WHL has hit ten. With players like Firkus and Riley Heidt expected to miss some time with World Junior camp and the tournament over the next few weeks, expect him to have a comfortable lead at the top of the league point list by the end of December.
Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy (Top Defenceman)- Luca Cagnoni, Portland Winterhawks
From undrafted at the WHL level to one of the best defencemen in the league, Luca Cagnoni has developed into a star. The San Jose Sharks prospect has the second most points by a defender in the WHL, with 30 in 21 games and has played a major role in Portland's strong start to the season. Another player that may be on Team Canada's radar heading into the World Junior Championship; more and more people will start questioning how he was available in the fourth round at the 2023 NHL Draft.
Del Wilson Trophy (Top Goaltender)- Harrison Meneghin, Lethbridge Hurricanes
Harrison Meneghin has looked unbeatable in net so far this year. The Lethbridge Hurricanes goaltender ranks tied for first in wins with 13 and is one of two goalies in the league with at least ten wins and two shutouts. Add in his .920 save percentage, and you have not just one of the best goaltenders in the WHL but across the entire CHL.
Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy (Top Rookie)- Terik Parascak, Prince George Cougars
Terik Parascak continues to separate himself from the pack as the league's top rookie. The draft-eligible forward is up to 38 points in 25 games and holds an 11-point advantage over Gavin McKenna, who currently sits in second place. On pace for 60 goals and 104 points, he could finish the season as a top-10 point producer.
Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy (Top Coach)- Willie Desjardins, Medicine Hat Tigers
Willie Desjardins took a Medicine Hat team that finished 13th in 2022-23 and made them a contender. From McKenna and Cayden Lindstrom to, most recently, both Markus and Liam Ruck, he has shown a willingness not just to play younger guys but also to give them opportunities to grow and develop. If the Tigers can keep performing at this level, they will surprise come playoff time.
Make sure to check back at the end of every month to see if these players can continue their potentially award-winning seasons or if another WHL star dethrones them.