Minor Hockey Talks - Hockey Forum

Penticton to the WHL: Game Changer or Just Another Road Trip?

The Penticton Vees joining the WHL is big news, but what does it really mean for the BC Division? Will a shorter drive to Penticton actually ease the Cougars' travel burden, or is it just a drop in the bucket? With talk of Chilliwack joining too, is a seven-team BC Division a logistical nightmare or a dream come true for rivalries?

Let’s talk about the financial side. Millions in franchise fees and territorial rights payments – is this sustainable for new teams? Will these hefty price tags trickle down and impact ticket prices for fans?

And what about player development? The expansion draft could shake things up. How will existing teams protect their talent, and what kind of squad can Penticton assemble? Is it a level playing field, or are they starting at a disadvantage? The ripple effects on the BCHL and NCAA eligibility are also worth discussing. Is this a win-win, or are there losers in this equation?

Finally, let’s get bold. With these potential changes, who emerges as the top dog in the BC Division in the next few years? Does the current balance of power shift, or do the established teams maintain their grip?