2024-25 WHL Season Preview: Regina Pats
Previewing the 2024 Regina Pats' season.
Photo by Jeremy Champagne/WHL - 2024-25 WHL Season Preview: Regina PatsWelcome 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 Regina Pats, who look to return to the postseason after missing out in 2023-24.
2023-24 Statistics:
Regular Season Record: 22-40-4-2 50 Points (5th East Division)
Playoffs: N/A
Key Departures: Raiden Zacharias (F), Samuel Barcik (D), Parker Berge (D)
Key Additions: John Babcock (D), Cameron Kuzma (F)
As far as trades and acquisitions, Regina has stayed the course in the summer of 2024. Out of the 37 players on the Pats pre-season roster, only nine of them (seven forwards, two defencemen) were not drafted by the team.
With this, Regina will have to reclaim their spot in the playoffs from within. Forward and captain Tanner Howe returns for another WHL season, proving last year that his numbers alongside Connor Bedard were not a flash in the pan. He will likely be lean on heavily for offensive output, but it's a challenge he is used to. Additionally, Sam Oremba returns to help lead the charge up front.
The Pats have made headlines around the hockey world of late, with forward Braxton Whitehead committing to Arizona State University (NCAA Division 1). Whitehead will remain in Regina for 2024-25, but becomes the first player in CHL history to receive a verbal commitment from an NCAA school.
One of the few moves the Pats did make was snagging 2004-born defenceman John Babcock from the Saskatoon Blades, adding to the veteran presence that will be needed on an up-and-coming team like this one. Regina will also be getting a full season out of centre and St. Albert, Alta. product Cameron Kuzma. Eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, Kuzma brings a 6'2 frame to the faceoff dots that he knows how to use well.
In goal, Swiss import selection Ewan Huet and Saskatchewan product Kelton Pyne are projected to be the tandem once again, and they will both be looking for a bounce-back season.
Regina is a young team that needs a little direction, but have the pieces to potentially secure a playoff postion in 2025.
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