Preston and Beltchez Shine as Key Players in Button’s Team CHL for Prospect Challenge

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is poised to showcase its top NHL Draft-eligible players in the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. This exciting two-game event will take place on November 25 and 26, hosted by the Calgary Hitmen and Lethbridge Hurricanes. The CHL team is being constructed from players across major junior teams in Canada, utilizing insights from NHL Central Scouting to identify top talents.

Key Players for Team CHL

Craig Button, TSN’s Director of Scouting, has proposed an impressive roster for Team CHL featuring Mathis Preston and Ethan Belchetz as standout players. Both have established themselves as key contributors in their respective leagues.

Ethan Belchetz

• Team: Windsor Spitfires
• Current Season: 12 goals and 19 points in 15 games
• Previous Season: 17 goals and 38 points
• Performance at Hlinka Gretzky Cup: 4 goals and 7 points, helped team to bronze

Belchetz is recognized for his scoring ability and has been pivotal in guiding the Spitfires to a 12-2-2 record this season. His skill set and growth potential are highlighted by Button, positioning him as a vital asset for the team.

Mathis Preston

• Team: Spokane Chiefs
• Current Season: 6 goals and 12 points in 13 games
• Previous Season: 23 goals and 45 points, key contributor in playoffs
• Performance at Hlinka Gretzky Cup: 4 goals and 7 points

Preston’s remarkable contributions last season drove Spokane to the WHL Championship Series. His experience with the national team enhances his value, making him another critical forward for Team CHL.

Team Selection Process

The selection of players for the CHL squad involves consultation with NHL teams. Players are chosen based on their performance and feedback from scouts. This year, notable players like Ryan Lin and Xavier Villeneuve are already confirmed to join the team.

Defensive Strengths

• Ryan Lin: Leading WHL defencemen with 3 goals and 19 points
• Xavier Villeneuve: Third in QMJHL scoring with 4 goals and 22 points

Lin has earned praise for his intelligence on the ice, making him a strategic defender. Meanwhile, Villeneuve’s past performance, including being named Defenceman of the Year, adds depth to the roster.

Goaltending Options

For the goaltending position, Kingston Frontenacs’ Gavin Betts is set to be the primary choice. He has shown consistent performance and strong stats in his rookie season, making him a reliable backstop for the team.

Diverse Roster Composition

This year, Team CHL will include players from various backgrounds, including six non-Canadian players. Among them is forward JP Hurlbert, leading scorer in the WHL.

Full Roster Overview

This upcoming CHL USA Prospects Challenge is an excellent opportunity for young players to showcase their skills on a national stage. With talented individuals like Preston and Belchetz, Team CHL aims for success against their U.S. counterparts.