Two Hockey Edmonton Athletes Selected in 2026 WHL Prospects Draft
Two Hockey Edmonton products heard their names called in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft, as goaltender Fletcher MacDonald and forward Taylor Mowbray were both selected following standout U15 AAA seasons in Edmonton.
MacDonald, a goaltender with the CAC Volvo Cars Edmonton's U15 AAA program, was selected ninth overall by the Regina Pats, becoming the highest-drafted goaltender ever selected by the Pats. He also became the first goaltender selected by the Pats in the first round since 2014 and the highest-drafted goalie selected in the WHL Prospects Draft since 2016.
Goaltenders are rarely selected in the opening round of the WHL Prospects Draft, making MacDonald’s ninth-overall selection one of the most notable draft moments for an Alberta netminder in recent years.
The 6-foot-3 Edmonton product put together an exceptional season with CAC, posting a 2.87 goals-against average and .925 save percentage across 28 games while earning AEHL U15 AAA First All-Star Team honours. Despite facing a league-high 1,005 shots, which was 290 more than the next closest goaltender, MacDonald consistently delivered under pressure and established himself as one of the top young netminders in Western Canada.
He elevated his play even further in the postseason, recording a remarkable .969 save percentage while allowing just three goals across 120 playoff minutes.
MacDonald also helped Team Alberta capture gold at the 2026 Alberta Cup, where he posted a .942 save percentage and earned tournament First All-Star Team honours.
“Fletcher had an outstanding season and continually rose to the occasion in big moments,” said Ray Vigneau, General Manager of Hockey Edmonton. “For a goaltender to be selected that early in the WHL Draft is incredibly impressive and speaks to the confidence Regina has in his future. We are very proud of what he has accomplished.”
Meanwhile, KC Squires U15 AAA forward Taylor Mowbray was selected 270th overall by the Kelowna Rockets after a dynamic offensive season.
Mowbray recorded 81 points in just 34 games, finishing with 35 goals and 46 assists while earning AEHL U15 AAA Second All-Star Team honours. Known for his offensive creativity and hockey IQ, the Edmonton forward was a key contributor for the KC Squires throughout the season.
He also helped Team Alberta win gold at the 2026 Alberta Cup earlier this month, adding to an impressive season that showcased his ability to perform on some of the province’s biggest stages.
“Taylor is a highly skilled player with great vision and offensive instincts,” said Vigneau. “He had a tremendous year and consistently found ways to impact games offensively while competing at a very high level.”
The selections continue a strong tradition of Hockey Edmonton athletes advancing to the next level and being recognized among the top young players in Western Canada.
“We’re incredibly proud of both Fletcher and Taylor for earning this opportunity,” added Vigneau. “These moments are a reflection of the dedication they’ve shown to their development, along with the support they’ve received from their families, coaches, teammates, and associations throughout their journeys. Seeing athletes like Fletcher and Taylor advance to the next level also speaks to the strength of Hockey Edmonton’s elite hockey pathway and the development taking place within programs like the CAC and KC.”
