The Prince Albert Raiders made a significant impact in the 2026 WHL Bantam Draft by selecting several promising young players. Their first-round pick was Caleb Mozell from the Saskatoon Outlaws U15 AA, a standout forward who recorded 27 points in just 13 games this season. Other notable picks include Noah Carignan, who led the BC Elite Hockey League in scoring, and Sam Brenner, who topped the U15 Humboldt Broncos in points in the previous season. The Raiders rounded out their selections with a mix of forwards and defensemen from Canadian and American leagues, showcasing a focus on scoring talent and defensive depth.

By the Numbers
  • Caleb Mozell: 8 goals, 19 assists in 13 AA games.
  • Noah Carignan: 31 goals, 47 assists, and 78 points in the BCEHL.
  • Sam Brenner: 28 goals, 39 assists, and 67 points in 27 games.
  • Maguire Hendry: 15 goals, 27 assists in 22 games last season.
  • Brooks Carlson: 26 goals, 30 assists in 35 games last season.
Yes, But

While the Raiders' picks are promising, some analysts argue that the depth of talent may vary, particularly in the transition from AA to higher leagues. Additionally, the team's strategy relies heavily on the potential development of these young players, which is uncertain.

State of Play
  • The Raiders emphasized selecting players with strong point production records in their respective leagues.
  • Many drafted players have experience with competitive teams, indicating a commitment to building a robust roster.
  • There's an emerging trend of scouting talent from U.S. leagues, expanding the Raiders' recruitment strategy.
What's Next

Moving forward, the Raiders will focus on integrating these draft picks into their training programs and monitoring their development. Key performances in upcoming seasons could solidify the team's outlook for future championships and player eligibility for higher leagues.

Bottom Line

The Raiders are positioning themselves favorably for future competitiveness by investing in young talent with strong records. However, successful player development will be crucial, as the transition from junior leagues to competitive tiers poses inherent challenges.