Victoria Royals Lead Vancouver Island Talent in 2025 WHL Draft

The 2025 Western Hockey League (WHL) Prospects Draft highlighted significant involvement from Vancouver Island, particularly the Victoria Royals, who selected nine players including defenceman Roan Greschuk 19th overall. The Royals, with a history of early high picks in previous drafts, continue to build a promising roster featuring players like Cole Reschny and Keaton Verhoeff, who are considered top NHL prospects. Other Island players were also drafted by teams such as the Calgary Hitmen and Portland Winterhawks, while sibling connections in the league emerged, exemplified by Anderson Reschny's selection by Prince George. The draft also saw notable activities from other WHL teams, including the Medicine Hat Tigers and Wenatchee Wild, with behind-the-scenes insights into scouting and selection processes. Overall, the draft reflects a strategic approach by teams to balance immediate needs with future potential, emphasizing the importance of scouting young talent across Western Canada and the U.S. priority draft. The Regina Pats secured the first pick, likely selecting hometown star Maddox Schultz, underscoring the ongoing trend of high NHL potential players entering the WHL through top draft positions.