A look at which WHL drafted prospects stepped up during this year's CSSHL U18 season.

The CSSHL, or Canadian Sport School Hockey League, continues to play an integral role in developing WHL prospects. Whether before or after being drafted into the WHL, players work their way up the ranks while also receiving a proper education. With the regular season complete, here is a look at some drafted WHL prospects who stood out at the U18 level. 

Daxon Rudolph

Drafted first overall in 2023 by the Prince Albert Raiders, Daxon Rudolph was a star for Northern Alberta Xtreme. He led all defenders in points per game with 2.11 and finished the year as the only defenceman to crack the 20-goal mark. Listed at 6'1"and 185 lbs, he is dynamic at both ends of the ice; he could make his WHL debut once his CSSHL playoffs come to a close. 

Noah Kosick

Noah Kosick is making a name for himself at the Pacific Coast Academy. The 2023 11th overall selection was the only player to hit 50 assists this season, and he saw a 17-point improvement in his second U18 season. A player with a late birthday who won't turn 16 until August, the Calgary Hitmen have a special prospect who could be a regular in their 2024-25 lineup if signed before next season. 

Liam & Markus Ruck

What a year it has been for Liam and Markus Ruck. They finished top two in points per game this season while playing with Okanagan HA and proudly represented Canada at the Youth Olympic Winter Games in South Korea. It shouldn't be long before the Medicine Hat Tigers' prospects dominate at the WHL level, with both having made their debuts earlier this season. 

Levi Benson

Over at Yale Hockey Academy, Levi Benson is trying to forge his own path in the WHL. Levi, the brother of former Winnipeg ICE star Zach Benson, led his team with 34 assists and cracked the 50-point mark in 29 games. A sixth-round pick by the Swift Current Broncos in 2022, the hope is his strong campaign will lead to a contract and opportunity in the WHL next season.

Ryley Budd

In net, Ryley Budd has been almost unbeatable. A second-round pick of the Saskatoon Blades in 2023, he finished the season with a 15-2 record, along with a save percentage of .937 and a goals-against average of 1.77. Currently signed to a WHL education contact, the Edge School goaltender could be Saskatoon's backup in 2024-25.

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