Red Deer Rebels open WHL season with mix of youth and veterans
The Rebels kick off the 2026-27 Western Hockey League season with a road opener in Calgary before returning home to face the Edmonton Oil Kings.
The Red Deer Rebels begin their 2026-27 WHL season this weekend, starting Friday against the Calgary Hitmen at the Saddledome before hosting the Edmonton Oil Kings Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Centrium for their home opener.
Head coach Brent Kisio said he's pleased with the team's preseason progress, noting improved speed and effort. The opening night roster blends returning forwards such as Poul Andersen, Owen DeWitt and Cole Temple with rookies including 16-year-old Paxson Madill and Chace Turchak. On defence, the club added 18-year-old Kaden Meyer via trade from the Calgary Hitmen, joining returnees like Noah Chadi and Jiri Kamas. Matthew Kondro and rookie Nathan Salisbury are set to share goaltending duties.
This week, the Rebels released veteran forward Landon MacSwain and reassigned defenceman Nolan Wolitski to the Devon Xtreme of the Alberta Junior Hockey League to allow him more playing time.
Madill, from Hermantown, Minnesota, said earning a roster spot amid heavy competition was special, while Andersen said the deeper roster compared to last season gives the team confidence heading into the regular season.
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