Yahoo Sports 2024-25 WHL Season Preview: Seattle Thunderbirds
Welcome to The Hockey News 2024-25 season preview series. From August 29 to September 20, THN's WHL duo will examine some of the biggest storylines facing each team this season. Today's edition is focused on the Seattle Thunderbirds, who are looking to get back to the postseason after a one-year absence.
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2023-24 Statistics:
Regular Season Record: 27-38-2-1, 57 Points (5th U.S. Division)
Playoffs: N/A
Key Departures: Jeremy Hanzel (D), Jordan Gustafson (F), Nico Myatovic (F)
Key Additions: Arjun Bawa (F), Matej Pekar (F),
The Thunderbirds are still rebuilding after their run to the 2023 Memorial Cup Final, which means their roster this season will feature plenty of 07's and 08's. That being said, Seattle has some impressive experience, including two who will be in consideration for Team Canada's World Junior team. Overall, it will be interesting to watch how Matt O'Dette sets his lineup on a night-to-night basis, as there should be plenty of opportunities for younger players to showcase that they are ready to be contributors at the WHL level.
Starting with the forward group, new arrival Arjun Bawa and 20-year-old Nathan Pilling are expected to lead the team offensively this season. There will also be a lot of intrigue surrounding Braeden Cootes and import Marej Pekar, who are both entering their NHL Draft season. If these four can be close to point-per-game players, it will go a long way in helping the less experienced forwards acclimate to the lineup.
As for the defence, Sawyer Mynio will once again be heavily relied upon in all situations. The Thunderbirds also have some experienced blue-liners, including Ashton Cumby, Hyde Davidson, and Owen Boucher, who have all played over 100 games in the WHL. Overall, Seattle has a solid defence core, which should help take some of the pressure off Tai Riley, Jaxson Pawlenchuk and Caleb Potter, who are all projected to make the opening night roster.
Lastly, Scott Ratzlaff is expected to be the number one goaltender, seeing upwards of 45 games this season. The Buffalo Sabres prospect is also the front-runner for Team Canada's World Juniors starter and should be headed to Ottawa in December. This means more action for backup Grayson Malinoski, who will be looking to capture his first WHL victory early in the season.
Ultimately, the Thunderbirds have built an intriguing lineup that could surprise many around the league. They have a strong group of experienced players, while many of their prospects already look like they can produce at the WHL level. While it won't be easy, as the U.S. Division is one of the most balanced in the league, do not be surprised if Seattle clinches a postseason berth in 2024-25.
Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
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