The 2026 WHL Prospects Draft is scheduled for May 6-7, featuring a live stream of Round 1 on Victory+ TV. Last year, the Saskatoon Blades made a splash by drafting 11 players, including forward Kain Martinuik with their first-round pick. This year, they hold the 18th overall pick and will benefit from a revised draft format that eliminates the separate U.S. Priority Draft. The Blades have a solid selection strategy, with multiple picks across various rounds.

By the Numbers
  • Saskatoon drafted 11 players at the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft.
  • The Blades currently hold the 18th overall pick for the 2026 draft.
Yes, But

The absence of the WHL U.S. Priority Draft could impact teams that previously relied on it for scouting American talent, raising questions about depth in the prospects pool.

State of Play
  • The WHL Prospects Draft format will now combine U.S. and Canadian player selections.
  • Scouts and teams are adapting to the new structure for evaluating talent in the buildup to the draft.
What's Next

The Blades will need to make strategic decisions with their picks to bolster their roster, focusing on both immediate needs and future potential as they prepare for the draft.

Bottom Line

The 2026 WHL Prospects Draft represents a critical opportunity for the Saskatoon Blades to reshape their future, with a focus on maximizing their picks in a newly integrated draft system.