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    Adam Kierszenblat
    Adam Kierszenblat
    Aug 8, 2025, 18:01
    Updated at: Aug 9, 2025, 22:22

    Welcome to this edition of the 2025 WHL Prospect Pools. Throughout the 2025 off-season, we will be taking a look at current or recently graduated WHLers who have either been drafted or signed by NHL clubs. Today's organization is the Ottawa Senators, which has two WHLers in its prospect pool. 

    The Senators have one prospect who is just starting his WHL career, and one who may see time in the NHL this season. Ottawa drafted Wenatchee Wild winger Blake Vanek in the third round this past year, while selecting Calgary Hitmen defenceman Carter Yakemchuk seventh overall in 2024. The Senators also have some recent WHL grads in their system, including Jake Chiasson and Ridly Greig. 

    Starting with Vanek, he will be making his WHL debut next year with Wenatchee. The 17-year-old spent last season in the high school system, but also had the opportunity to play nine games with the Chicago Steel of the USHL. Listed at 6'3", 205 lbs, Vanek will be a key part of the Wild's offence during the 2025-26 season. 

    As for Yakemchuk, there is a chance that he could make the Senators out of Training Camp. The 19-year-old had 49 points in 56 games and was named to the East's Second All-Star Team last year. Listed at 6'4", 207 lbs, Yakemchuk could also spend the year in the AHL as he will turn 20 in late September. 

    Carter Yakemchuck of the Calgary Hitmen (Photo Credit: Jenn Pierce/Calgary Hitmen/WHL)

    Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.

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    The Hockey News