Here are five import players to watch in the 2026-27 regular season.
The 2026 CHL Import Draft infused the Western Hockey League with a fresh wave of international talent.
Here are five incoming import players poised to make a significant impact during the 2026-27 WHL season.
1. Roberts Naudiņš, C/LW (Penticton Vees)
Drafted 98th overall in the CHL Import Draft, Roberts Naudiņš brings an incredibly unique physical profile to the Penticton Vees. The towering 6-foot-7 Latvian forward joins the WHL after an impressive stint with Shattuck-St. Mary's U18 Prep, where he registered seven goals and 17 assists.
2. Filip Novák, F (Victoria Royals)
Selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the seventh round of the 2026 NHL Draft, Filip Novák heads to Vancouver Island to bolster the Victoria Royals' forward group. Developing in the Sparta Prague system, the 18-year-old Czech forward possesses a mature, heavy frame paired with excellent skating power.
3. Mikhail Cherepanov, D (Kamloops Blazers)
Selected 39th overall by the Kamloops Blazers in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, Mikhail Cherepanov is a high-octane, creative defenseman. Drafted by the Dallas Stars earlier this summer, the Russian blueliner spent last season in the NAHL with the New Hampshire Mountain Kings, where he racked up 31 points (five goals, 26 assists) in 56 games.
4. Arvid Drott, RW (Medicine Hat Tigers)
The Medicine Hat Tigers secured a premier talent by selecting Arvid Drott in the first round of the 2026 CHL Import Draft. A sixth-round pick by the Florida Panthers in 2025, the Swedish power forward is defined by his powerful skating, directness, and physical engagement.
5. Jakub Frolo, F (Kelowna Rockets)
Drafted 33rd overall in the CHL Import Draft, Czech forward Jakub Frolo has officially signed a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Kelowna Rockets. Frolo developed his game in Finland with the Ilves organization, establishing himself as an elite playmaker at the U20 level by posting a league-leading points-per-game average among draft-eligible skaters (40 points in 37 games)
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