GM Bruce Hamilton with Madden Daneault (Image Credit: Kelowna Rockets Hockey Club)
By Regan Bartel
Madden Daneault's expanded role

First overall pick gets green light for 2026-27 Rockets season

Jul 14, 2026 | 9:42 PM

Rockets press release:

The Kelowna Rockets announced today that 2026 WHL Prospects Draft first overall selection Madden Daneault is eligible to play up to 34 regular-season games with the club during the 2026-27 season under Hockey Canada’s Western Canadian Development Model (WCDM).

Daneault, selected first overall by the Rockets in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft, enjoyed a remarkable 2025-26 season with the Red Deer Rebels U15 AAA program, recording 149 points (65G, 84A) in just 34 regular-season games. He also earned AEHL U15 First All-Star Team honours while leading the league in goals, assists, and points.

Regan’s Take: I knew it was a possibility, and now it has become reality. The 15-year-old, who doesn’t turn 16 until next May, is expected to play a significant role in the Rockets’ success in 2026-27 while being eligible for up to 34 games.

He follows Regina Pats forwards Maddox Schultz and Liam Pue, who both played 34 games as underage players last season. Both came from the Regina Pat Canadians U18 program, making their transition to the WHL a little smoother. Daneault’s path is different — he’ll play this season with the U18 Red Deer Chiefs, meaning plenty of travel will be part of the equation.

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The WHL landscape is changing, with more players leaving after their NHL Draft year. But if Daneault follows that same timeline, the Rockets could have him for at least three seasons — potentially close to 170 games, plus playoff runs.

That’s why the decision not to trade the first overall pick in the 2026 WHL Prospects Draft looks even better in hindsight. The Rockets could have moved the selection for a proven player to chase a playoff run and Memorial Cup, but keeping Daneault could end up being the move that pays the biggest dividends.

The Red Deer product also starred at the John Reid Memorial Tournament, where he was named Tournament MVP and Top Forward for a second consecutive season.

The 2026-27 season will mark the beginning of Daneault’s WHL career as one of the league’s most highly anticipated young prospects.

The Rockets open their home schedule on Saturday, September 26 against the Penticton Vees at Prospera Place.

by Regan Bartel

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