Three promising young hockey players from Maple Ridge were successfully selected during the Western Hockey League (WHL) Prospects Draft held on May 6 and 7, 2026. This event showcased over 200 of the most talented 15-year-old players from Western Canada, with 44 hailing from British Columbia.
Standout Players from Maple Ridge
- Jacson Bradbeer
- Connor Baines
- Wyatt Lowther
Jacson Bradbeer
Jacson Bradbeer was the standout first-round pick, selected 22nd overall by the Swift Current Broncos. The 5-foot-9, 151-pound offensive defenseman had an impressive season with the Yale Hockey Academy U15 Prep team, accumulating 61 points, which included 9 goals and 52 assists across 29 regular season games. In playoff action, he contributed an additional 6 points in 3 games. Bradbeer also showcased his skills by playing with the U-17 team, where he recorded four assists in four games.
Connor Baines
Connor Baines was drafted in the fourth round, 71st overall, by the Red Deer Rebels. He played center for Yale, achieving 54 points from 23 goals and 31 assists in 27 games. Standing six feet tall and weighing 160 pounds, Baines earned praise from the Rebels’ scouting director, Chase Fuchs, who highlighted his essential role on a successful team.
Wyatt Lowther
Meanwhile, Wyatt Lowther was chosen in the ninth round, 199th overall, by the Brandon Wheat Kings. The center, who played for the Burnaby Winter Club U15 Prep team, recorded 33 points with 10 goals and 23 assists in 30 games. At 5-foot-9 and 140 pounds, he displayed a well-rounded game, earning commendations from Chris Moulton, the director of hockey operations for the Wheat Kings.
Quotes from Coaches and Scouts
Bradbeer expressed enthusiasm about being drafted, stating, “It was an honour to be drafted to such a great city.” He also shared his excitement for joining a supportive fan base. The Broncos’ head scout, Chad Leslie, praised him as a highly skilled player with significant potential for growth.
Baines was described as “the straw that stirs the drink” for his team, indicating his crucial playmaking abilities. Lowther’s robust playstyle was noted, with Moulton describing him as a “complete guy” who isn’t afraid to take risks on the ice.
The selection of these Maple Ridge players highlights the area’s potential as a nurturing ground for future hockey talent. Their skills and determination are expected to contribute significantly to their teams in the WHL.
