The WHL is bringing back a long-awaited showcase event, and it’s arriving with some serious buzz-especially around a pair of top NHL Draft prospects.
Defenseman Lin and forward Preston have both been generating first-round hype ahead of this summer’s NHL Draft, and they were among the 44 players originally named to the WHL’s all-star style event. But the league confirmed Thursday that Preston won’t be suiting up.
The Vancouver Giants forward is still recovering from a knee-on-knee collision he suffered back on Jan. 10 at the Langley Events Centre against the Wenatchee Wild. With no clear timeline for his return, the WHL has named Giants winger Tobias Tomik as his replacement.
This marks the first time since 2000 that the WHL is hosting an all-star showcase, and the timing is no accident. With the NCAA drawing increased attention after loosening its scholarship rules, the WHL is making a push to spotlight its talent and remind scouts-and players-why it remains a premier development league. Wednesday’s event is expected to draw a large contingent of NHL scouts, all getting a closer look at the league’s top-tier draft-eligible talent.
Adding a bit of star power to the festivities, Giants co-owners Michael Bublé and Drew Scott will serve as celebrity coaches for the game. It’s a fun twist, but make no mistake-this event is about the players.
For Lin, it’s another chance to prove he belongs in the first-round conversation, even as he works through a wrist injury. And for others, it’s an opportunity to make a statement on a big stage.
The puck drops Wednesday, and with scouts watching closely, the stakes are high-even if the atmosphere leans a little more celebratory than your typical WHL matchup.