Welcome to THN's "WHL Standouts Of The Week" article. In this weekly column, we highlight one player from each division who impressed over the last week. Here is a look at the four standouts from Week 1 of the 2025-26 season.
JP Hurlbert- Kamloops Blazers
JP Hurlbert kicked off his WHL career in style, scoring a hat trick in the Kamloops Blazers' 6-4 victory over the Spokane Chiefs. The 17-year-old also led all players with six shots on goal, while winning 14 of 25 faceoffs. Hurlbert has the potential to be a star in the CHL as he put forward one of the most memorable debuts of the last few seasons.
Bryce Pickford- Medicine Hat Tigers
Bryce Pickford had a memorable night in his first game as the Medicine Hat Tigers' new captain. The Montréal Canadiens prospect scored twice while adding an assist as the Tigers beat the Regina Pats 5-2. Pickford also recorded nine shots on goal, which was five more than any other player in the game.
Zackary Shantz- Everett Silvertips
Just like Hurlbert, Zackary Shantz started his season with a hat trick. The Everett Silvertips forward scored all three of his team's goals in regulation and even potted a fourth in the shootout. Shantz also showcased his willingness to shoot as he was credited with 13 shots in Everett's 4-3 victory over the Wenatchee Wild.
Landen McFadden- Moose Jaw Warriors
Landen McFadden was unstoppable in his first game of the season. The Moose Jaw Warriors forward scored twice while adding three assists in Moose Jaw's 9-7 victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings. If McFadden can put together similar performances in the near future, he could set a new career high in points by the end of September.
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.
Penticton Vees Claim First WHL Win
Calgary Hitmen Acquire Caine Wilkie From Everett Silvertips
WHL 2025-26 Opening Night Recap
Three Intriguing Matchups To Watch On WHL Opening Night
