WHL Update: Rockets, Blazers, and Giants Gear Up for the Season

British Columbia’s WHL teams are making headlines this week as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Kelowna Rockets are headed north for the WHL Yukon Showcase, where they will square off against the defending champion Medicine Hat Tigers in Whitehorse. The two-game series, dubbed the Northern Lights Cup, marks a unique chance for fans in the North to see high-level hockey up close. Nine Rockets players have also been invited to NHL training camps, underlining the team’s strong development program, while forward Colton Lien was reassigned following training camp.

In Kamloops, the Blazers made two important signings. Nineteen-year-old forward Cooper Moore has joined the team on a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement after strong performances in junior leagues, while 2009-born goaltender Kaeden Tate has also committed to the club. Five Blazers are set to attend NHL training camps, showing the team’s continued presence in the pro pipeline. Meanwhile, Blazers fans said goodbye to former captain Jermaine Loewen, who announced his retirement from professional hockey.

The Vancouver Giants wrapped up their preseason in style with a 3–2 overtime victory against the Victoria Royals. Forward Tyus Sparks led the way with two goals, including the overtime winner, as the Giants completed a perfect 4–0–0 preseason record. The team’s strong exhibition play is giving fans plenty of optimism as they head into the regular season, with young players stepping up and showing their scoring touch. With Kelowna, Kamloops, and Vancouver all making moves, B.C.’s WHL teams look poised for an exciting start to 2025–26.