Report: Penticton To Join The WHL In 2025-26
Pentiction is currently home to the Vees, who play in the BCHL.
The WHL could be expanding as early as next season. According to a report by Cam Robinson of "Elite Prospects," the WHL will be expanding to Penticton ahead of the 2025-26 season. Robinson also reported that Chilliwack is also in conversations for an expansion team, but not for next season.
Adding Penticton would be a significant move for the WHL. It would put the league at 23 teams and add another passionate fan base to the WHL. Penticton is also home to the South Okanagan Events Centre, which houses the BC Hockey Hall of Fame and the Okanagan Hockey Group.
If Penticton is added next season, one way they may build their team is via an expansion. The WHL has conducted expansion drafts in the past, including in 2006 with the Chilliwack Bruins and in 2007 with the Edmonton Oil Kings. Penticton could also join other WHL teams in recruiting players from Junior "A," which includes the BCHL, where the Penticton Vees currently play.
As of writing, neither the Penticton Vees nor the WHL has released a statement about the report.
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