Previewing the Everett Silvertips' 2024-25 WHL season.
Welcome to The Hockey News 2024-25 season preview series. From August 29 to September 20, THN's WHL duo will examine some of the biggest storylines facing each team this season. Today's edition is focused on the Everett Silvertips, who will be looking to add another U.S. Division title this season.
2023-24 Statistics:
Regular Season Record: 45-18-2-3, 95 Points (2nd U.S. Division)
Playoffs: Defeated Vancouver Giants 4-1 First Round
Defeated By Portland Winterhawks 4-0 Second Round
Key Departures: Ben Hemmerling (F), Austin Roest (F), Tyler Palmer (G)
Key Additions: Landon DuPont (D), Tyler MacKenzie (F), Jesse Sanche (G)
The Silvertips enter the 2024-25 season with high expectations. While they did lose two of their top three-point producers from last season, Everett has built a well-balanced team full of highly skilled players and depth pieces who should be able to contribute on a nightly basis. Led by new head coach Steve Hamilton, do not be surprised to see the Silvertips once again near the top of the WHL standings at the end of the year.
As for the projected roster, Everett is expected to be led up front by their two imports, Seattle Kraken prospect Julius Miettinen and Dominick Rymon. Other forwards who will be looked upon to provide scoring in the top six include Tyler MacKenzie, who was acquired from the Medicine Hat Tigers, Carter Bear, who is coming off a 57-point campaign, and Jesse Heslop, who scored a career-high 19 goals last season. Add depth players like Raiden Zacharias, as well as Caden Brown, and it is easy to see why the Silvertips have one of the deepest forward groups in the U.S. Division.
Shifting to the blue line, all eyes will be on Exceptional Status player Landon DuPont, who is one of the front runners for WHL Rookie of the Year. Luckily, he will have a solid support group around him, which includes Calgary Flames prospect Eric Jamieson, Kraken prospect Kaden Hammell and Anaheim Ducks prospect Tarin Smith, who will be able to help the future WHL develop. Last but certainly not least, keep an eye on Brek Liske, as he could also turn some heads in what will also be his rookie season.
Lastly, Everett's goaltending group will be led by former Kamloops Blazers goalie Jesse Sanche, who was acquired this offseason. The 18-year-old went 6-17-1 in 2023-24 but should be able to improve on that record behind a strong Silvertips team. While he may not be busy most nights, he will need to be sharp if Everett has plans on a long playoff run this year.
Overall, the Silvertips are an exciting team that should have no problem putting the puck in the net this season. They have created a lineup that will be difficult for any team to match up against and, as mentioned, are the favourites to take home the U.S. Division this season. With more additions expected throughout the season, this could be the year Everett finally gets over the hump back in the WHL Final.
Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
New Captain Jake Sloan Ready To Lead The Tri-City Americans Back To The Playoffs
WHL Trade Grades: Ryder Ritchie Heads West, Tomas Mrsic Goes East
Medicine Hat, Prince Albert Exchange NHL Talent In Blockbuster Trade
Predicting Team MVPs For The 2024-25 WHL Season: East Division
Predicting Team MVPs For The 2024-25 WHL Season: Central Division
Predicting Team MVPs For The 2024-25 WHL Season: U.S. Division
