Landon DuPont is the first ever defenceman to receive Exceptional Player Status in WHL history.
One of the biggest stories from the WHL's opening weekend was the debut of Everett Silvertips defender Landon DuPont. This summer, DuPont became the first defenceman in WHL history to receive Exceptional Player Status, which allows him to play full-time at the WHL level as a 15-year-old. The Exceptional Player Status has only been granted one other time in WHL history, with Connor Bedard receiving the designation in 2020.
DuPont made his WHL debut on September 21 during the Silvertips home-opener. It was a debut to remember as he recorded a primary assist and finished with four shots on net. As DuPont explains, while there were plenty of nerves, playing in his first WHL game was an experience he won't soon forget.
"Coming into the game, I was a bit nervous, said DuPont. "I was obviously really excited to play my first game in green and to be in front of all the fans. Really excited, but also nervous. Throughout the game, everything just kind of fell into place, and after the game, there's a big release. Obviously, the game didn't go how we wanted it to, but I feel like that game was big for me."
In addition to moving to a new league, DuPont is playing away from home for the first time in his career. This presents an added challenge as he has not only moved cities but also lives in a different country. While there are challenges to living away from home, DuPont views the move as an opportunity to continue to grow and develop.
"Have to be more independent. My time management's always got to be on point. Always got to be prepared for anything that happens. I don't have Mom and Dad to rely on now. That's been a big help for me because I feel like I kind of need that, and I feel like I've grown as a person now that I moved away from home."
One of the reasons DuPont feels comfortable in Everett is the experienced players on the team. Older leaders are important to have in every locker room as they can provide guidance, whether that is on or off the ice. As DuPont describes, the older Silvertips players have taken him under their wing and are continuing to help him adjust to life in the WHL.
"All the veterans, like 19 and 20-year-olds, were super helpful. Helping me and helping me adjust to everything. I just couldn't thank them enough because they have a bit more experience than everyone else, and they're just super helpful for me."
As for his time away from the rink, DuPont is having fun exploring his new home. From restaurants to exploring nature, there is a ton of stuff to do in and around Everett. According to DuPont, he is taking full advantage of what the city has to offer and has already found a go-to spot for his pregame coffee.
"There's some cool lakes, like Lake Stevens and there's some nice coffee shops. There's one called Union Coffee, and that's where me and my billet brothers always go to before the game. The golf courses are really nice. Me and my buddies have been able to go out and play some golf. So that's been, that's been lots of fun."
During the game on Saturday, an intermission interview was aired, during which DuPont shared that his favourite restaurant is Denny's. Luckily for DuPont, there is one in Everett, just a 15-minute drive from the Angel of the Winds Arena. When asked about his answer, DuPont went into detail, revealing why Denny's is a special place for him and his family.
"I've always had a secret thing for Denny's. I used to always go with my grandparents. This summer, me and my buddies would go whenever, we were hungry or had nothing else to do. I love the food, but I think you also can make a bunch of new memories, and I have a lot of old memories from going to Danny, so it's pretty cool."
While it has only been one game, it is clear why DuPont was granted Exceptional Player Status. He looks very confident when the puck is on his stick while his skating is already at an elite level. Not draft eligible until 2027, fans should take every opportunity they have to see him play as DuPont has the potential to be a star in the NHL one day.
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