Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
2024-25 Manitoba Bisons/CW
- Thread starter Hollywood3
- Start date
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
April 26, 2024: Three WHL Recruits
Thus far there are no official announcement at GoBisons.ca. However, Elite Prospects lists three new Bisons, all with WHL experience. There are not many other recruits in the CW. In fact, there are more announcements of players departing for pro careers thus far. Here we go!
DEXTER WHITTLE - D - Everett (WHL)
Whittle is just 5' 9" and is one of two Virden boys recruited to the roster. As a bonus, he shoots right. He is unfortunately known for being on the receiving end of a vicious hit-from-behind which cost him most of last season. He played just two games after a lengthy hospital stay. His assailant received a 25-game suspension. There are several linked stories and videos of the incident.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Dexter Whittle Career Stats
➤ CHL.ca: 2023-24 Player Profile
➤ Brandon Sun: WHL NOTEBOOK: Dexter Whittle makes his way back
➤ BVM Sports: 2023-24 Player Profile
➤ Hockey Unplugged: Player suspended 25 games after putting opponent in hospital for 3 days with dirty hit
➤ Hockey Feed: WHL forward suspended 25 games for hit that sends opponent to hospital
➤ Victoria News: Victoria Royals forward suspended 25 games for hockey hit from behind
➤ Empire Advance: Whittle has gone from Wheat Kings fan to foe
➤ YouTube: Edwards hit on Whittle - Tough Call Breakdown
➤ YouTube: Alex Edwards drives Dexter Whittle into the glass
GRADY LANE - F - Victoria (WHL)/Virden (MJHL)
Lane played three seasons for the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL, and wore an “A” in his final season there. He then split his overage season between the Victoria Royals in the Dub, and his hometown Virden Oil Capitals in the MJHL. He is a 6' 2", 192 lbs winger, shoots left, and apparently likes to scrap. The offensive numbers in the WHL aren’t much (137 GP, 8-15-23, 250 PIMS), but his junior denouement in the MJHL was better (41 GP, 14-16-30, 155 PIMS). The Bison shopping list has two big items up front: scoring and grit. Lane appears to cover the latter fairly well.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Grady Lane Career Stats
➤ Empire Advance: Lane excited to play for WHL’s Royals
➤ Empire Advance: Lane helps hometown team in many ways
➤ CHL.ca: Player Profile
➤ RoyalsFan.ca: Grady Lane, Hockey’s Swiss Army Knife
➤ YouTube Fights: March 19, 2023 : April 14, 2021
➤ Facebook Video: Grady Lane (03) puts home the nice feed from Braeden Lewis (03)
➤ BVM Sports: Royals Acquire Grady Lane in exchange for an 8th Round Pick
CADE ZAPLITNY - F - Everett (WHL)
Zaplitny is a Winnipeg boy, coming home from the west coast. He is 6' 1" and 190 lbs and shoots left. After splitting 2021-22 between the Winnipeg Blues and Everett Silvertips, he then played two full seasons in Everett with decent enough numbers (101 GP, 23-22-45, 92 PIMS). So a bit of scoring and a bit of grit.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Cade Zaplitny Career Stats
➤ CHL.ca: 2023-24 Player Profile: Cade Zaplitny
➤ Winnipeg Blues: CADEN ZAPLITNY STAYING WITH SILVERTIPS IN WHL
➤ Our Sports Central: 2023-24 Player Profile: Cade Zaplitny
Thus far there are no official announcement at GoBisons.ca. However, Elite Prospects lists three new Bisons, all with WHL experience. There are not many other recruits in the CW. In fact, there are more announcements of players departing for pro careers thus far. Here we go!
DEXTER WHITTLE - D - Everett (WHL)
Whittle is just 5' 9" and is one of two Virden boys recruited to the roster. As a bonus, he shoots right. He is unfortunately known for being on the receiving end of a vicious hit-from-behind which cost him most of last season. He played just two games after a lengthy hospital stay. His assailant received a 25-game suspension. There are several linked stories and videos of the incident.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Dexter Whittle Career Stats
➤ CHL.ca: 2023-24 Player Profile
➤ Brandon Sun: WHL NOTEBOOK: Dexter Whittle makes his way back
➤ BVM Sports: 2023-24 Player Profile
➤ Hockey Unplugged: Player suspended 25 games after putting opponent in hospital for 3 days with dirty hit
➤ Hockey Feed: WHL forward suspended 25 games for hit that sends opponent to hospital
➤ Victoria News: Victoria Royals forward suspended 25 games for hockey hit from behind
➤ Empire Advance: Whittle has gone from Wheat Kings fan to foe
➤ YouTube: Edwards hit on Whittle - Tough Call Breakdown
➤ YouTube: Alex Edwards drives Dexter Whittle into the glass
GRADY LANE - F - Victoria (WHL)/Virden (MJHL)
Lane played three seasons for the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL, and wore an “A” in his final season there. He then split his overage season between the Victoria Royals in the Dub, and his hometown Virden Oil Capitals in the MJHL. He is a 6' 2", 192 lbs winger, shoots left, and apparently likes to scrap. The offensive numbers in the WHL aren’t much (137 GP, 8-15-23, 250 PIMS), but his junior denouement in the MJHL was better (41 GP, 14-16-30, 155 PIMS). The Bison shopping list has two big items up front: scoring and grit. Lane appears to cover the latter fairly well.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Grady Lane Career Stats
➤ Empire Advance: Lane excited to play for WHL’s Royals
➤ Empire Advance: Lane helps hometown team in many ways
➤ CHL.ca: Player Profile
➤ RoyalsFan.ca: Grady Lane, Hockey’s Swiss Army Knife
➤ YouTube Fights: March 19, 2023 : April 14, 2021
➤ Facebook Video: Grady Lane (03) puts home the nice feed from Braeden Lewis (03)
➤ BVM Sports: Royals Acquire Grady Lane in exchange for an 8th Round Pick
CADE ZAPLITNY - F - Everett (WHL)
Zaplitny is a Winnipeg boy, coming home from the west coast. He is 6' 1" and 190 lbs and shoots left. After splitting 2021-22 between the Winnipeg Blues and Everett Silvertips, he then played two full seasons in Everett with decent enough numbers (101 GP, 23-22-45, 92 PIMS). So a bit of scoring and a bit of grit.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Cade Zaplitny Career Stats
➤ CHL.ca: 2023-24 Player Profile: Cade Zaplitny
➤ Winnipeg Blues: CADEN ZAPLITNY STAYING WITH SILVERTIPS IN WHL
➤ Our Sports Central: 2023-24 Player Profile: Cade Zaplitny
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Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
May 4, 2024: One More WHL Recruit
I checked the LOI Registry and found that Bison Hockey has four names, the three from the prior post and one more. Here's the details.
SKYLER BRUCE - RW - Vancouver/Edmonton (WHL)
Bruce is 5' 10" and 168 lbs with a track record of goal-scoring prowess. I thought I remembered the name from Team Manitoba at the NAHC (the National Aboriginal Hockey Championship), but the tournament was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 when he would have been eligible. (Bruce is generally a Metis surname in Manitoba.) So this is not the player I was thinking of.
After partial seasons split between AAA and the Kootenay/Winnipeg Ice, he played a full season for the Winnipeg Ice in 2021-22 (68 GP, 16-21-37). He then split 2022-23 between the Ice and Vancouver Giants (63 GP, 15-31-46) and 2023-24 between the Giants and Edmonton Oil Kings (43GP, 15-24-39). His AAA stats were always better than a point per game, even better than two points per game on occasion. Another goal-scorer or three and the Bisons could be on their way in 2024-25!
This signing is not confirmed at Elite Prospects. No recruiting announcements have been released by the Bisons at GoBisons.ca.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Skyler Bruce Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤ CHL.ca: Oil Kings acquire forward Skyler Bruce from Vancouver
➤ CHL.ca: Skyler Bruce Player Profile
➤ BVM Sports: Oil Kings acquire forward Skyler Bruce from Vancouver
➤ Winnipeg Free Press: Ice forward has the magic touch - Skyler Bruce is on the small side, but he posts big numbers
➤ YouTube: WHL Hat-Tricks – Skyler Bruce
I checked the LOI Registry and found that Bison Hockey has four names, the three from the prior post and one more. Here's the details.
SKYLER BRUCE - RW - Vancouver/Edmonton (WHL)
Bruce is 5' 10" and 168 lbs with a track record of goal-scoring prowess. I thought I remembered the name from Team Manitoba at the NAHC (the National Aboriginal Hockey Championship), but the tournament was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 when he would have been eligible. (Bruce is generally a Metis surname in Manitoba.) So this is not the player I was thinking of.
After partial seasons split between AAA and the Kootenay/Winnipeg Ice, he played a full season for the Winnipeg Ice in 2021-22 (68 GP, 16-21-37). He then split 2022-23 between the Ice and Vancouver Giants (63 GP, 15-31-46) and 2023-24 between the Giants and Edmonton Oil Kings (43GP, 15-24-39). His AAA stats were always better than a point per game, even better than two points per game on occasion. Another goal-scorer or three and the Bisons could be on their way in 2024-25!
This signing is not confirmed at Elite Prospects. No recruiting announcements have been released by the Bisons at GoBisons.ca.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Skyler Bruce Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤ CHL.ca: Oil Kings acquire forward Skyler Bruce from Vancouver
➤ CHL.ca: Skyler Bruce Player Profile
➤ BVM Sports: Oil Kings acquire forward Skyler Bruce from Vancouver
➤ Winnipeg Free Press: Ice forward has the magic touch - Skyler Bruce is on the small side, but he posts big numbers
➤ YouTube: WHL Hat-Tricks – Skyler Bruce
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jetsmooseice
Up Yours Robison
- Feb 20, 2020
- 1,954
- 2,537
The ICE-Bisons talent pipeline is really flowing! Haha.
Looking forward to seeing what Bruce brings to the Bisons. I remember him mainly as a depth forward with the ICE.
Looking forward to seeing what Bruce brings to the Bisons. I remember him mainly as a depth forward with the ICE.
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
Since the ICE days his points trajectory has risen. His 39 points in 43 games last year in the WHL could translate into 20+ points in the CW. That would be the 2nd highest scorer (behind Hooker) on the team. (Not really something to brag about, but still.)
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
May 9, 2024: Teams Are Posting Stories
Although some teams have posted recruitment announcements (linked below) Elite Prospects has the most consistent early news across websites. Here are the links for all teams (some have yet to add a link for 2024-25.).
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (1)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (0)
The Bisons have started updating their website with recruiting announcements. So far, nothing anywhere about schedules. The two stories cover the four players previously announced in this thread.
Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: Men's hockey announce commitment of local standouts Cade Zaplitny, Grady Lane and Dexter Whittle
➤ GoBisons.ca: Local standout Skyler Bruce announced as newest men's hockey commit
The Family Guys lead the league in posted stories, with four. All about their recruits, with a heavy local Junior A flavour.
Links:
➤ MacEwan: AJHL scoring champion, Lloydminster Bobcats captain Cabana joining Griffins in 2024-25
➤ MacEwan: AJHL all-star defenceman, Canmore Eagles captain Tallman joining Griffins in 2024-25
➤ MacEwan: Veteran goaltender Epp returns home to join Griffins for final season of eligibility
➤ MacEwan: Eastman returns home to join Griffins after capping junior career with prolific scoring season in P.E.I.
The Banjo-Cats have just one story, but have four recruits.
Links:
➤ Regina: Men's hockey signs defenceman Chase Friedt-Mohr
Holy Trinity has one recruiting announcement and a fund-raising announcement.
Links:
➤ TWU: Complete Champion Challenge Set for May 25th
➤ TWU: Men’s Hockey New Recruit - Sammy May
The Banjo-Mutts have no recruiting announcements, but they do have a unique ticket program. In addition to the usual types of perks, they also offer discounts on CFL tickets to watch the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Links:
➤ Saskatchewan: Ticketing Details 2024-25
Although some teams have posted recruitment announcements (linked below) Elite Prospects has the most consistent early news across websites. Here are the links for all teams (some have yet to add a link for 2024-25.).
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (1)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (0)
The Bisons have started updating their website with recruiting announcements. So far, nothing anywhere about schedules. The two stories cover the four players previously announced in this thread.
Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: Men's hockey announce commitment of local standouts Cade Zaplitny, Grady Lane and Dexter Whittle
➤ GoBisons.ca: Local standout Skyler Bruce announced as newest men's hockey commit
The Family Guys lead the league in posted stories, with four. All about their recruits, with a heavy local Junior A flavour.
Links:
➤ MacEwan: AJHL scoring champion, Lloydminster Bobcats captain Cabana joining Griffins in 2024-25
➤ MacEwan: AJHL all-star defenceman, Canmore Eagles captain Tallman joining Griffins in 2024-25
➤ MacEwan: Veteran goaltender Epp returns home to join Griffins for final season of eligibility
➤ MacEwan: Eastman returns home to join Griffins after capping junior career with prolific scoring season in P.E.I.
The Banjo-Cats have just one story, but have four recruits.
Links:
➤ Regina: Men's hockey signs defenceman Chase Friedt-Mohr
Holy Trinity has one recruiting announcement and a fund-raising announcement.
Links:
➤ TWU: Complete Champion Challenge Set for May 25th
➤ TWU: Men’s Hockey New Recruit - Sammy May
The Banjo-Mutts have no recruiting announcements, but they do have a unique ticket program. In addition to the usual types of perks, they also offer discounts on CFL tickets to watch the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Links:
➤ Saskatchewan: Ticketing Details 2024-25
Last edited:
jetsmooseice
Up Yours Robison
- Feb 20, 2020
- 1,954
- 2,537
Looks like the Bisons are doing not too badly in terms of recruiting this season, a few mid-level WHLers is nothing to sniff at especially for a team that has been junior A heavy lately. Mind you, recruiting and retention are two different things, some of the WHLers in recent years haven't stuck around long before moving on.
Also, the pricing on the tickets in Sask makes me appreciate how good we have it here in that department
Also, the pricing on the tickets in Sask makes me appreciate how good we have it here in that department
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
I suspect that retention will be a growing issue across all USports, especially for male athletes. Four year degrees are increasingly an onerous commitment.Looks like the Bisons are doing not too badly in terms of recruiting this season, a few mid-level WHLers is nothing to sniff at especially for a team that has been junior A heavy lately. Mind you, recruiting and retention are two different things, some of the WHLers in recent years haven't stuck around long before moving on.
Also, the pricing on the tickets in Sask makes me appreciate how good we have it here in that department
Tickets in Manitoba are so cheap. Best deal in town!
AUS Fan
Registered User
I would think that lots of guys are taking courses while playing Junior which would shorten their degree time.
MiamiHockeyII
Registered User
- Mar 24, 2022
- 200
- 284
The opposite is actually happening. If you look at rosters, Student-athletes are realizing that an undergraduate degree is not enough, and are using their 5 years of eligibility and education packages to attain a Masters degree.
Now, in Manitoba many of the WHLers you speak of continued their degrees - some at UWinnipeg or RRC - they just quit playing for the Bisons.
This is accurate. Most ex-CHLers arrive with pretty close to a year of core courses already completed. Some use that to lighten their course load, others use it to complete a Masters (or Law Degree) during their eligibility window.
The same thing is happening in the NCAA, BTW. There are so many remote learning options now, it's not hard for Junior Hockey Players to find time for a course or two each semester.
UNB Bruins Fan
Registered User
AUS Fan
Registered User
I don't know if it's a requirement to get the package but the team is responsible to get the kids in the right classes and do follow-up during the season.
I'm sure it is....
Rob
Registered User
Very encouraging recruitment so far for the Bisons. I remember looking at the Rosters of other Canada West teams and seeing quality CHL players born in Manitoba. Looks like they may now choose to stay home.
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
May 15, 2024: Another Pair of WHL Recruits
One more name is on the LOI Registry and at Elite Prospects, while one more is LOI only for now. Neither has a story at GoBisons.ca right now.
DAWSON PASTERNAK - F - Victoria (WHL)
Here we have another small forward at 5'9" and 152 lbs. But he can really score, doing better than a PPG in Victoria in the WHL. He started his junior career in the USHL before moving west with Portland then Brandon in the WHL. There are linked stories about each phase. He had an injury a couple years back which hampered his numbers. Reliable goal scoring was IMO the #1 recruiting goal this year, and he certainly could address that.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Dawson Pasternak Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤The Hockey News: Victoria Royals Dawson Pasternak Thriving In Final WHL Season (with video featuring a Tiger Williams celly)
➤ Winnipeg Free Press: Pasternak a steal of a deal
➤ CHL.ca: Dawson Pasternak Leaves USHL, To Play For Portland In 2021-22
➤ CHL.ca: Brandon Sun: Pasternak Finally Returns to Manitoba
➤ CHL.ca: Royals Acquire Dawson Pasternak From Wheat Kings
➤ Victoria Times Colonist: Dawson Pasternak leads Victoria Royals past Rockets
BRADEN HOLT - G - Victoria (WHL)
This signing is on the LOI but not yet at Elite Prospects. I am not sure which goaltenders are returning this year. However, last year’s goaltending was roughly league average. (The only part of the roster to do so.) Holt is from Bozeman, Montana and entered the WHL with Everett before a trade to Victoria. His cumulative stats were 3.39 GAA, .893 S%, and a 72-51-12 record. The linked stories (and others) have praised his efforts. So I’m guessing that the Bisons will have solid goaltending.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Braden Holt Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤ The Hockey Writers: Braden Holt – 2022 NHL Draft Prospect Profile
➤ NHL.com: Braden Holt G
➤ CHL.ca: Royals Roundup – Episode #11 ft. Braden Holt & Nate Misskey
➤ YouTube: NHL Draft Highlight Reel: Braden Holt
➤ YouTube: 2023-24 Season Preview Interview - Braden Holt
➤ CHL.ca: Royals goaltender Braden Holt named WHL Goaltender of the Week
➤ TSN.ca: WHL roundup: Holt holds off Blazers as Royals post win
➤ Victoria Times Colonist: Royals' new crease acquisition Braden Holt records shutout in win over Giants
One more name is on the LOI Registry and at Elite Prospects, while one more is LOI only for now. Neither has a story at GoBisons.ca right now.
DAWSON PASTERNAK - F - Victoria (WHL)
Here we have another small forward at 5'9" and 152 lbs. But he can really score, doing better than a PPG in Victoria in the WHL. He started his junior career in the USHL before moving west with Portland then Brandon in the WHL. There are linked stories about each phase. He had an injury a couple years back which hampered his numbers. Reliable goal scoring was IMO the #1 recruiting goal this year, and he certainly could address that.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Dawson Pasternak Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤The Hockey News: Victoria Royals Dawson Pasternak Thriving In Final WHL Season (with video featuring a Tiger Williams celly)
➤ Winnipeg Free Press: Pasternak a steal of a deal
➤ CHL.ca: Dawson Pasternak Leaves USHL, To Play For Portland In 2021-22
➤ CHL.ca: Brandon Sun: Pasternak Finally Returns to Manitoba
➤ CHL.ca: Royals Acquire Dawson Pasternak From Wheat Kings
➤ Victoria Times Colonist: Dawson Pasternak leads Victoria Royals past Rockets
BRADEN HOLT - G - Victoria (WHL)
This signing is on the LOI but not yet at Elite Prospects. I am not sure which goaltenders are returning this year. However, last year’s goaltending was roughly league average. (The only part of the roster to do so.) Holt is from Bozeman, Montana and entered the WHL with Everett before a trade to Victoria. His cumulative stats were 3.39 GAA, .893 S%, and a 72-51-12 record. The linked stories (and others) have praised his efforts. So I’m guessing that the Bisons will have solid goaltending.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Braden Holt Career Stats
➤ USports: Letter of Intent
➤ The Hockey Writers: Braden Holt – 2022 NHL Draft Prospect Profile
➤ NHL.com: Braden Holt G
➤ CHL.ca: Royals Roundup – Episode #11 ft. Braden Holt & Nate Misskey
➤ YouTube: NHL Draft Highlight Reel: Braden Holt
➤ YouTube: 2023-24 Season Preview Interview - Braden Holt
➤ CHL.ca: Royals goaltender Braden Holt named WHL Goaltender of the Week
➤ TSN.ca: WHL roundup: Holt holds off Blazers as Royals post win
➤ Victoria Times Colonist: Royals' new crease acquisition Braden Holt records shutout in win over Giants
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Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
May 20, 2024: Updating News with a Trickle of Stories
There are not a lot of newer postings around the CW. The Bisons have posted a story about the recruitment of Dawson Pasternak (announced above). Coach Burnett sings his praises and they emphasize the 72 points in 62 WHL games.
Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: Victoria Royals Team MVP, top scorer Dawson Pasternak commits to Bisons hockey
The T-irds' first story of the season is a recruiting announcement. They have landed Carson Latimer, a 4th round draft pick of the Ottawa Senators from 2021. They tout his 122 points in 178 WHL games.
Links:
➤ UBC: Carson Latimer adds big offensive weapon to Canada West champion T-Birds
More players have been added at the Elite Prospects pages. (Insert usual warning here that EP does not necessarily have all announcements, such as with UBC.)
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (0)
We also have to send a nod to the news from the AUS about the departure of former Portage Collegiate, Flin Flon Bombers, and OCN Blizzard coach Gardiner MacDougall from the UNB Red Squirrels to the Moncton Wildcats.
Links:
➤ AUS: MacDougall retires from REDS
➤ UNB: MacDougall Retires From REDS
There are not a lot of newer postings around the CW. The Bisons have posted a story about the recruitment of Dawson Pasternak (announced above). Coach Burnett sings his praises and they emphasize the 72 points in 62 WHL games.
Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: Victoria Royals Team MVP, top scorer Dawson Pasternak commits to Bisons hockey
The T-irds' first story of the season is a recruiting announcement. They have landed Carson Latimer, a 4th round draft pick of the Ottawa Senators from 2021. They tout his 122 points in 178 WHL games.
Links:
➤ UBC: Carson Latimer adds big offensive weapon to Canada West champion T-Birds
More players have been added at the Elite Prospects pages. (Insert usual warning here that EP does not necessarily have all announcements, such as with UBC.)
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (4)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (0)
We also have to send a nod to the news from the AUS about the departure of former Portage Collegiate, Flin Flon Bombers, and OCN Blizzard coach Gardiner MacDougall from the UNB Red Squirrels to the Moncton Wildcats.
Links:
➤ AUS: MacDougall retires from REDS
➤ UNB: MacDougall Retires From REDS
Last edited:
Gardiner MacDougall is a former head coach of the Lebret Eagles in the SJHL. He was an assistant in Flin Flon.
jetsmooseice
Up Yours Robison
- Feb 20, 2020
- 1,954
- 2,537
My kid had a confused look on his face when I said to him that "Pasternak is joining the Bisons"
It's might not be David, but Dawson is still a pretty solid add!
This is a good sign, I wonder if the Bisons will be able to keep this up, or is this just a short lived ICE bump assisted by having so many players visit the U of M campus from 2019-2023.
It's might not be David, but Dawson is still a pretty solid add!
This is a good sign, I wonder if the Bisons will be able to keep this up, or is this just a short lived ICE bump assisted by having so many players visit the U of M campus from 2019-2023.
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
I don't think it will make much difference. Oddly, the Bisons recruited quite a number of the Kootenay Ice players before they moved. The facility itself was sub-standard for the WHL, which is why the Ice were forced to move. It is on campus (which some CW teams lack) and is very serviceable, so it would not keep a player away.My kid had a confused look on his face when I said to him that "Pasternak is joining the Bisons"
It's might not be David, but Dawson is still a pretty solid add!
This is a good sign, I wonder if the Bisons will be able to keep this up, or is this just a short lived ICE bump assisted by having so many players visit the U of M campus from 2019-2023.
In the past a typical Bison recruit was a Manitoba boy who went out west to play in the WHL then came home to cash in his scholarship and play before family and friends.
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
May 28, 2024: More Stories Posted Across the CW
The Bisons have issued their press release on the commitment of goaltender Braden Holt. In the last week I have seen no new announcements at Elite Prospects and the Letter of Intent page has not been updated since May 21, 2024. (Not every recruited player registers a Letter of Intent.) They still have six recruits listed at Elite Prospects. No team has posted a 2024-25 roster page on their website yet.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ GoBisons.ca: Men's hockey announce commitment of veteran WHL goalie Braden Holt
The Family Guys have added a hat-trick of stories. Two of those about new recruits, one about a grad heading to Germany’s 2nd tier of pro hockey. They continue to have five recruits listed at Elite Prospects.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ MacEwan: Dependable defensive defenceman Haynes brings 163 games of WHL experience to the Griffins
➤ MacEwan: Taupert realizes a dream, signing pro contract to play for Lausitzer Füchse in DEL 2
➤ MacEwan: Griffins solidify goaltending position with two-time Centennial Cup champ Barwick
The Evil Monkeys have no stories about recruits yet. The headline on the story is wrong. Hockey player Alex Thacker was voted rookie of the year, not athlete of the year. Still no recruitment stories. However, they still have the two announcements at Elite Prospects: goaltender Tyler Palmer from the Everett Silvertips (WHL) and centre Vincent Lamanna from Fort McMurray (AJHL), where he spent his overage season after also playing for Everett in prior seasons.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Alberta: Thacker named UofA Male Athlete of the Year
The Bisons have issued their press release on the commitment of goaltender Braden Holt. In the last week I have seen no new announcements at Elite Prospects and the Letter of Intent page has not been updated since May 21, 2024. (Not every recruited player registers a Letter of Intent.) They still have six recruits listed at Elite Prospects. No team has posted a 2024-25 roster page on their website yet.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ GoBisons.ca: Men's hockey announce commitment of veteran WHL goalie Braden Holt
The Family Guys have added a hat-trick of stories. Two of those about new recruits, one about a grad heading to Germany’s 2nd tier of pro hockey. They continue to have five recruits listed at Elite Prospects.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ MacEwan: Dependable defensive defenceman Haynes brings 163 games of WHL experience to the Griffins
➤ MacEwan: Taupert realizes a dream, signing pro contract to play for Lausitzer Füchse in DEL 2
➤ MacEwan: Griffins solidify goaltending position with two-time Centennial Cup champ Barwick
The Evil Monkeys have no stories about recruits yet. The headline on the story is wrong. Hockey player Alex Thacker was voted rookie of the year, not athlete of the year. Still no recruitment stories. However, they still have the two announcements at Elite Prospects: goaltender Tyler Palmer from the Everett Silvertips (WHL) and centre Vincent Lamanna from Fort McMurray (AJHL), where he spent his overage season after also playing for Everett in prior seasons.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Alberta: Thacker named UofA Male Athlete of the Year
Last edited:
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
June 1, 2024: News Has Slowed
As we enter a new month, the early off-season activity from May has slowed, albeit to somewhat normal levels for this time of year.
Regarding recruitment, the main sources are Elite Prospects and the USports Letters of Intent page. At Elite Prospects there was a steady stream of additions across USports until May 17th. After that, there have been just seven USports transactions, and four of those were departures. The former link to the USports Letters of Intent page is now a 404. Search engines do not disclose a new link for that page. The last update I saw for it was on May 21st.
The MJHL has a linked recruitment page. A lot of players have gone to the NCAA or various other leagues. I suspect that the Bisons have a lot of yet unannounced recruits from the MJHL and other Junior A leagues. Most students will have by now completed their registrations for the 2024-25 academic year, perhaps subject to a pending fee payment.
Coach Gord Burnett gave a talk at the MJHL’s prospects camp. So I assume that he was talking to players for this year and down the road.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transactions
➤ USports: Former Letter of Intent Page
➤ Instagram: MJHL Hockey IG Post May 31st
➤ MJHL: 2024 Prospects Camp
➤ MJHL: Player Advancements
The Evil Monkeys still have no recruiting announcements on their website. However, they have announced their 2023-24 award winners!
W.D. Smith Trophy (Golden Bears Most Improved Player) - Konrad Belcourt
University of Alberta President's Award (Student-Athlete's career contribution to the team and program as an outstanding athlete, leader and role model) - Matt Berlin
Andy Purcell Hockey Trophy (Golden Bears Most Valuable Player) - Eric Florchuk
Golden Bears Hockey Alumni Three-Star Award (Most Three Star Selections) - Eric Florchuk
The Captain's Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Contribution with the Least Recognition) - Adam Hall
Gord Thibodeau Trophy (Awarded to the Golden Bear who best displays perseverance and courage) - Jacob Herauf
Vic Dzurko Memorial Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Defensive Player) - Wyatt McLeod
Bill Moores Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Freshman) - Alex Thacker
President's Trophy (Bear who best combines sportsmanship, leadership & integrity) - Jakin Smallwood
Links:
➤ Alberta: Bears announce 2023/24 team award winners
The Banjo-Cats have just one previously linked recruitment story. However, they now have five recruits listed at Elite Prospects. All five are defencemen, mostly players with a junior career blended between Junior A and the WHL.
Ashton Fishley split his time between the Portage Terriers and Swan Valley Stampeders of the MJHL. The rest had blended careers.
Aiden Brook played a total of 35 WHL games and 24 MJHL games in 2020-21 and 2021-22. He spent the last two years with the Dauphin Kings and Portage Terriers of the MJHL
Three others were WHL vets who went to Junior A for their overage season.
Chase Friedt-Mohr was mostly in the WHL, dividing time with the Spokane Chiefs, Edmonton Oil Kings, and Tri-City Americans before he spent last year with the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL.
Blake Heward was with the Edmonton Oil Kings and Calgary Hitmen of the WHL then spent last year with the Estevan Bruins of the SJHL.
Adam McNutt was with the Prince Albert Raiders, Regina Pats, and Swift Current Broncos of the WHL before playing with the Flin Flon Bombers of SJHL last year.
That’s basically a brand new blue-line for the Kittens.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (5)
As we enter a new month, the early off-season activity from May has slowed, albeit to somewhat normal levels for this time of year.
Regarding recruitment, the main sources are Elite Prospects and the USports Letters of Intent page. At Elite Prospects there was a steady stream of additions across USports until May 17th. After that, there have been just seven USports transactions, and four of those were departures. The former link to the USports Letters of Intent page is now a 404. Search engines do not disclose a new link for that page. The last update I saw for it was on May 21st.
The MJHL has a linked recruitment page. A lot of players have gone to the NCAA or various other leagues. I suspect that the Bisons have a lot of yet unannounced recruits from the MJHL and other Junior A leagues. Most students will have by now completed their registrations for the 2024-25 academic year, perhaps subject to a pending fee payment.
Coach Gord Burnett gave a talk at the MJHL’s prospects camp. So I assume that he was talking to players for this year and down the road.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transactions
➤ USports: Former Letter of Intent Page
➤ Instagram: MJHL Hockey IG Post May 31st
➤ MJHL: 2024 Prospects Camp
➤ MJHL: Player Advancements
The Evil Monkeys still have no recruiting announcements on their website. However, they have announced their 2023-24 award winners!
W.D. Smith Trophy (Golden Bears Most Improved Player) - Konrad Belcourt
University of Alberta President's Award (Student-Athlete's career contribution to the team and program as an outstanding athlete, leader and role model) - Matt Berlin
Andy Purcell Hockey Trophy (Golden Bears Most Valuable Player) - Eric Florchuk
Golden Bears Hockey Alumni Three-Star Award (Most Three Star Selections) - Eric Florchuk
The Captain's Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Contribution with the Least Recognition) - Adam Hall
Gord Thibodeau Trophy (Awarded to the Golden Bear who best displays perseverance and courage) - Jacob Herauf
Vic Dzurko Memorial Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Defensive Player) - Wyatt McLeod
Bill Moores Trophy (Golden Bears Outstanding Freshman) - Alex Thacker
President's Trophy (Bear who best combines sportsmanship, leadership & integrity) - Jakin Smallwood
Links:
➤ Alberta: Bears announce 2023/24 team award winners
The Banjo-Cats have just one previously linked recruitment story. However, they now have five recruits listed at Elite Prospects. All five are defencemen, mostly players with a junior career blended between Junior A and the WHL.
Ashton Fishley split his time between the Portage Terriers and Swan Valley Stampeders of the MJHL. The rest had blended careers.
Aiden Brook played a total of 35 WHL games and 24 MJHL games in 2020-21 and 2021-22. He spent the last two years with the Dauphin Kings and Portage Terriers of the MJHL
Three others were WHL vets who went to Junior A for their overage season.
Chase Friedt-Mohr was mostly in the WHL, dividing time with the Spokane Chiefs, Edmonton Oil Kings, and Tri-City Americans before he spent last year with the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL.
Blake Heward was with the Edmonton Oil Kings and Calgary Hitmen of the WHL then spent last year with the Estevan Bruins of the SJHL.
Adam McNutt was with the Prince Albert Raiders, Regina Pats, and Swift Current Broncos of the WHL before playing with the Flin Flon Bombers of SJHL last year.
That’s basically a brand new blue-line for the Kittens.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (5)
Last edited:
New link to the LOI Registry (bottom of the page). Still hasn't been updated since May 21st.
LOI Registry
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
June 3, 2024: Sirant to Glasgow
Former Bison coach Mike Sirant is off to Scotland to be an assistant coach for the Glasgow Clan in the EIHL. The Bisons played them once-upon-a-time, even back when they were called the Braehead Clan. Sirant coached over there before joining the Bisons.
Links:
➤ Glasgow Clan: NEWS: SIRANT LINKS UP WITH NEILSON ON THE BENCH
Former Bison coach Mike Sirant is off to Scotland to be an assistant coach for the Glasgow Clan in the EIHL. The Bisons played them once-upon-a-time, even back when they were called the Braehead Clan. Sirant coached over there before joining the Bisons.
Links:
➤ Glasgow Clan: NEWS: SIRANT LINKS UP WITH NEILSON ON THE BENCH
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
June 7, 2024: Recruiting Updates
Nothing new from the Bisons, in fact the only new story posted is at Alberta. The Elite Prospects pages have been updated with new recruits listed for Regina, Mount Royal, and UBC.
The UBC recruit is Carson Latimer, previously noted in this thread sourced to a news story from UBC.
MRU's recruit is Leith Olafson, a defenceman from the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL.
Regina recruited their 6th player, and first forward. Noah Willis is a small forward (5'9" 157 lbs) with a good Junior A scoring touch. He finished with the Sherwood Park Crusaders, one of the AJHL teams which switched to the BCHL mid-season. He had 83 points in 67 games last year.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (1)
The Evil Monkeys' story is about the grads who have gone from eating bananas to competing for the Stanley Cup. There is a total of 22 on-ice and off-ice personnel in that category. Those who played for the Apes are Derek Ryan, Kris Knoblauch, Dustin Schwartz, and Joel Jackson.
Links:
➤ Alberta: Abundance of UofA connections on display in 2024 Stanley Cup Final
Nothing new from the Bisons, in fact the only new story posted is at Alberta. The Elite Prospects pages have been updated with new recruits listed for Regina, Mount Royal, and UBC.
The UBC recruit is Carson Latimer, previously noted in this thread sourced to a news story from UBC.
MRU's recruit is Leith Olafson, a defenceman from the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL.
Regina recruited their 6th player, and first forward. Noah Willis is a small forward (5'9" 157 lbs) with a good Junior A scoring touch. He finished with the Sherwood Park Crusaders, one of the AJHL teams which switched to the BCHL mid-season. He had 83 points in 67 games last year.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: USports Transfers
➤ Elite Prospects: Manitoba Bisons (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Alberta Golden Bears (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Calgary Dinosaurs (0)
➤ Elite Prospects: MacEwan Griffins (5)
➤ Elite Prospects: Mount Royal Cougars (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: Regina Cougars (6)
➤ Elite Prospects: Saskatchewan Huskies (2)
➤ Elite Prospects: Trinity Western Spartans (3)
➤ Elite Prospects: U.B.C. Thunderbirds (1)
The Evil Monkeys' story is about the grads who have gone from eating bananas to competing for the Stanley Cup. There is a total of 22 on-ice and off-ice personnel in that category. Those who played for the Apes are Derek Ryan, Kris Knoblauch, Dustin Schwartz, and Joel Jackson.
Links:
➤ Alberta: Abundance of UofA connections on display in 2024 Stanley Cup Final
Last edited:
Hollywood3
Bison/Jet/Moose Fan
- May 12, 2007
- 6,648
- 1,093
June 13, 2024: Bisons Add to Bumper Crop
The Bisons have a 7th new recruit, and we have stories from Portage la Prairie, Flin Flon, and Saskatown.
ERIC ALARIE - LW/C - Moose Jaw & Seattle (WHL), Adirondack (ECHL)
This commitment was found on the LOI Registry. It is not yet on Elite Prospects, nor on the Bisons’ site. FWIW, there are no further announcements on the MJHL Player Advancements Page.
Here we have a Winnipeg lad coming home. He’s 6'1" 196 lbs. He does not have the massive stats of other recruits, but a couple years back was recruited by the Los Angeles Kings after not being drafted into the NHL. He also went to a camp with the Florida Panthers. In 2021 he was rated 51st by Central Scouting (of North American players) and 71st by McKeen’s. Here’s the scouting report from the Hockey Writers site:
His WHL career was based with the Moose Jaw Warriors until he was traded early last year to the Seattle Thunderbirds. After the season was over he went to the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL for 8 games. In 280 career WHL games he had 79-108-187.
Now the Bisons just need a handful of defencemen to balance the recruiting class. I’d be happy with a WHL grad with some offensive touch, and a big country boy from the MJHL who can clear the slot.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Eric Alarie Career Stats
➤ NHL.com: Eric Alarie Career
➤ CHL.ca: WHL Next Generation: Eric Alarie
➤ Hockey Writers: Eric Alarie – 2021 NHL Draft Prospect Profile
➤ Moose Jaw Today: Warriors’ Alarie looking forward to NHL opportunity after being passed over in Entry Draft
➤ Moose Jaw Today: Warriors welcome back Rysavy from Columbus, trade Alarie to Seattle for picks
➤ Elite Prospects: Forward Eric Alarie set to play for Los Angeles Kings
➤ CHL.ca: T-Birds acquire forward Eric Alarie from the Moose Jaw Warriors
➤ YouTube: WHL Hat Tricks – Eric Alarie
➤ ECHL Thunder: Thunder Sign Forward Eric Alarie
➤ ECHL.com: Game-By-Game Stats
Five Flon Flon Bombers are moving on to university hockey, and three of those are headed to the CW. The Mount Royal Cougars have recruited forward Justin Lies and goaltender Harmon Laser-Hume. Meanwhile, the Banjo-Cats have recruited defenceman Adam McNutt. All three of those movements were already on Elite Prospects.
Links:
➤ The Reminder: Five former Bombers commit for college, university hockey
This is one of those nice off-season community stories on three Calder brothers from Portage la Prairie.
Logan, the oldest brother, plays for Salve Regine University, in Rhode Island in NCAA Division III. Kian played his first season with the Bisons last year. Evan played in the KIJHL with the Castlegar Rebels. Kian sounds positive about the Bison recruiting.
Links:
➤ Portage Online: The Calder Brothers: Hockey, Homecomings, and Summer Plans
There is still no official word on recruits from the Banjo-Mutts. However, former coach Dave Adolph got some more recognition, this time at a USports level. He is the recipient of the Jean Marie De Koninck Coaching Excellence Award.
Links:
➤ UofS: Dave Adolph Honoured at 2024 U SPORTS Conference and Annual General Meetings
The Bisons have a 7th new recruit, and we have stories from Portage la Prairie, Flin Flon, and Saskatown.
ERIC ALARIE - LW/C - Moose Jaw & Seattle (WHL), Adirondack (ECHL)
This commitment was found on the LOI Registry. It is not yet on Elite Prospects, nor on the Bisons’ site. FWIW, there are no further announcements on the MJHL Player Advancements Page.
Here we have a Winnipeg lad coming home. He’s 6'1" 196 lbs. He does not have the massive stats of other recruits, but a couple years back was recruited by the Los Angeles Kings after not being drafted into the NHL. He also went to a camp with the Florida Panthers. In 2021 he was rated 51st by Central Scouting (of North American players) and 71st by McKeen’s. Here’s the scouting report from the Hockey Writers site:
His WHL career was based with the Moose Jaw Warriors until he was traded early last year to the Seattle Thunderbirds. After the season was over he went to the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL for 8 games. In 280 career WHL games he had 79-108-187.
Now the Bisons just need a handful of defencemen to balance the recruiting class. I’d be happy with a WHL grad with some offensive touch, and a big country boy from the MJHL who can clear the slot.
Links:
➤ Elite Prospects: Eric Alarie Career Stats
➤ NHL.com: Eric Alarie Career
➤ CHL.ca: WHL Next Generation: Eric Alarie
➤ Hockey Writers: Eric Alarie – 2021 NHL Draft Prospect Profile
➤ Moose Jaw Today: Warriors’ Alarie looking forward to NHL opportunity after being passed over in Entry Draft
➤ Moose Jaw Today: Warriors welcome back Rysavy from Columbus, trade Alarie to Seattle for picks
➤ Elite Prospects: Forward Eric Alarie set to play for Los Angeles Kings
➤ CHL.ca: T-Birds acquire forward Eric Alarie from the Moose Jaw Warriors
➤ YouTube: WHL Hat Tricks – Eric Alarie
➤ ECHL Thunder: Thunder Sign Forward Eric Alarie
➤ ECHL.com: Game-By-Game Stats
Five Flon Flon Bombers are moving on to university hockey, and three of those are headed to the CW. The Mount Royal Cougars have recruited forward Justin Lies and goaltender Harmon Laser-Hume. Meanwhile, the Banjo-Cats have recruited defenceman Adam McNutt. All three of those movements were already on Elite Prospects.
Links:
➤ The Reminder: Five former Bombers commit for college, university hockey
This is one of those nice off-season community stories on three Calder brothers from Portage la Prairie.
Logan, the oldest brother, plays for Salve Regine University, in Rhode Island in NCAA Division III. Kian played his first season with the Bisons last year. Evan played in the KIJHL with the Castlegar Rebels. Kian sounds positive about the Bison recruiting.
Links:
➤ Portage Online: The Calder Brothers: Hockey, Homecomings, and Summer Plans
There is still no official word on recruits from the Banjo-Mutts. However, former coach Dave Adolph got some more recognition, this time at a USports level. He is the recipient of the Jean Marie De Koninck Coaching Excellence Award.
Links:
➤ UofS: Dave Adolph Honoured at 2024 U SPORTS Conference and Annual General Meetings
jetsmooseice
Up Yours Robison
- Feb 20, 2020
- 1,954
- 2,537
That's an impressive bunch of recognizable names with WHL pedigrees that the Bisons are pulling in for this season... I'm definitely intrigued.
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