Meet Carson Carels the Small-Town Sensation Turning Heads in the NHL Draft Chase
Carson Carels, a promising defenseman from Cypress River, Manitoba, is catching attention as a notable prospect for the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft. Known for his strong work ethic derived from his farming background, Carels has become a standout player in the Western Hockey League (WHL) this season.
From Farm Life to Hockey Dreams
Carels’ family runs a beef farm in Cypress River, which raises over 500 cattle. His daily responsibilities include checking on the livestock and haying during the summer. Despite his demanding farm duties, he effectively manages his hockey training. “The farm comes first in the summer, but then I train. Once the animals are happy, I’m happy,” Carels stated.
Rising Through the Ranks
Carels has established himself as a key player with the Prince George Cougars, accumulating 29 points in 28 games. This performance places him on track for a remarkable season. His imposing presence on the ice, standing at 6 feet 2 inches, combined with his defensive awareness, has garnered attention from scouts, positioning him as one of the top defensemen in his draft class.
- Current Team: Prince George Cougars
- Games Played: 28
- Points Scored: 29
- Projected Draft Position: Top-10 pick
National Recognition
Recently, Carels was selected to be part of Canada’s World Junior training camp. His strong showing at events such as the CHL USA Prospects Challenge has put him in contention for the final roster. If he makes the team, he would be one of the youngest defensemen to represent Canada internationally.
Previous Achievements
Carels has accumulated valuable experience on the international stage:
- Gold: U-18 World Championship, May 2023
- Silver: 2024 U-17 World Challenge
- Bronze: Hlinka Gretzky Cup, August 2023
Carels’ impressive performance in these tournaments reflects his extensive playing time and ability to handle pressure. He consistently logs over 22 minutes of ice time per game, showcasing his stamina and skill.
The Future Looks Bright
As the buzz surrounding the 2026 NHL Draft intensifies, Carels is focused on his immediate goals while remaining grounded. “I just like to stay in contact with home. Talking to all those people takes your mind off all this draft stuff,” he shared.
With his unique background and exceptional talent, Carson Carels is not just a small-town player; he is a sensation on the path to NHL stardom. The hockey community is keenly watching this young talent, who aims to realize his big-city hockey dreams from his humble beginnings in Cypress River.
