U17 Players Showing The Future Is Bright In The WHL
Four U17 players have eclipsed the 50-point mark this season.
Photo by Kevin Light Photo/Victoria Royals - U17 Players Showing The Future Is Bright In The WHLU17 players have made a significant impact in the WHL this season. Whether it is goal-scoring or playmaking, players completing their 16-year-old seasons have shown the future is indeed bright at the WHL level. Here is a look at four U17s who have taken the league by storm this year.
Gavin McKenna
Gavin McKenna is achieving feats few in WHL history have. His 92 points in 59 games are seventh all-time among U17 players in league history, while he is just the sixth player in WHL history to surpass the 60-assist mark in their 16-year-old season. Not draft eligible until 2026, it is clear he has the potential to go down as one of the most dynamic players in Medicine Hat Tigers' history.
Cole Reschny
Cole Reschny has been phenomenal for the Victoria Royals this season. His 57 points in 59 games rank second on the team, while he is also one of nine rookies to surpass the 20-goal mark this season. A consistent player who has gone more than two games without a point just once this season, he is an exciting prospect to watch ahead of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
Ben Kindel
Ben Kindel is putting together a fantastic rookie campaign for the Calgary Hitmen. His 42 assists rank third among rookies, while his 57 points are the most ever in franchise history by a 16-year-old. Originally drafted 43rd overall by Calgary, he should shoot up draft boards ahead of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.
Cameron Schmidt
Cameron Schmidt is showing why he is a top prospect ahead of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The Vancouver Giants forward is one of the fastest players in the WHL and recently became the 25th player in league history to score 30 as a 16-year-old. With two hat tricks in his last ten games, he will cause goaltenders around the league headaches next season and beyond.
Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
