This year’s draft-eligible players continue to play key roles for their clubs in the CHL playoffs. However, perhaps the most noteworthy major junior performer this playoff season is Medicine Hat forward Gavin McKenna. He isn’t eligible for the draft until 2026, yet McKenna has a whopping 38 playoff points (9G 29A) in 16 games for the Tigers. He has more than picked up the slack for 2024 4th overall Columbus pick Cayden Lindstrom, whose injuries he has suffered this season have severely limited his time on the ice.
Out east, Moncton Wildcats center Caleb Desnoyers has been a force as well. The 7th ranked North American skater in this year’s draft has recorded 30 points (9G 21A) in 18 games in helping his club reach the QMJHL championship series. As the attachments indicate, by virtue of Moncton opponent Rimouski hosting the Memorial Cup this season, both teams already have qualified for the CHL finale.
Finally, Oshawa D-man Haoxi “Simon” Wang left a lasting impression on all observers for his two-way playmaking ability this postseason. Although the Generals lost to the London Knights in the OHL finals, the 34th ranked North American skater was definitely one of the driving forces leading to Oshawa’s deep playoff run this season.