Discover How the Penticton Vees Unearthed ‘Great Value’ at Their First WHL Draft

The Penticton Vees have made their mark with their first-ever Western Hockey League draft. They selected 18 players during the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft and U.S. Priority Draft, marking an exciting new chapter for this expansion team.

One of the highlights was the selection of defenceman Thor Liffiton, who was picked in front of enthusiastic fans during a launch party on May 7. The excitement continued on May 8 as the Vees chose forward Peter Banicevic in the third round (47th overall) from Delta Hockey Academy. He stood out last season with an impressive 68 points in just 36 games.

Adam Sergerie, the team’s director of scouting, expressed optimism about the draft class. “We see great potential in these players,” he mentioned. Sergerie noted that as the draft progressed, they identified many promising players who they believed would still be available. This insight led them to make strategic moves to acquire additional picks, resulting in a well-rounded team.

Here’s a look at the Vees’ full 2025 draft class:

WHL U.S. Priority Draft
• Round 1, 4th overall: Carter Morris, forward (Anchorage, AK)
• Round 2, 27th overall: Parker Deraney, defenceman (Detroit Lakes, MN)

WHL Prospects Draft
• Round 1, 4th overall: Thor Liffiton, defenceman (Calgary)
• Round 3, 47th overall: Peter Banicevic, forward (Burnaby)
• Round 5, 96th overall: Jack Utsunomiya, goaltender (Delta)
• Round 6, 116th overall: Nash Weyland, defenceman (Strathcona, Alta.)
• Round 7, 139th overall: Talon Scinocca, forward (Brandon)
• Round 7, 141st overall: Jace Guevarra, defenceman (Winnipeg)
• Round 7, 144th overall: Dawon Baht, forward (Martensville, Sask.)
• Round 8, 162nd overall: Landon Knott, defenceman (Bemidji, MN)
• Round 8, 164th overall: Gage Mark, forward (Kelowna)
• Round 9, 185th overall: Owen LaCoste, forward (Chandler, AZ)
• Round 10, 208th overall: Owen Conrad, defenceman (Winnipeg)
• Round 11, 231st overall: Gavin Hildebrand, goaltender (Morden, Man.)
• Round 12, 254th overall: Zach Mielke, defenceman (Maple Grove, MN)
• Round 13, 277th overall: Mateo Zappitelli, defenceman (Winnipeg)
• Round 14, 300th overall: Kaius Millan, forward (Lake Country)
• Round 15, 323rd overall: Shea Mooney, defenceman (Victoria)

The Vees’ strategic choices reflect a growing trend in sports where expansion teams emphasize youth and fresh talent. Recent studies show that teams investing in younger players often yield better long-term results. Engaging with their community, the Vees’ fan support will be crucial as these players grow and develop on the ice.

This draft marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the Penticton Vees, promising plenty of thrilling hockey ahead.

Source link

Penticton Vees|WHL