Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes shines in opening game of the WHL playoffs

The 20-year-old forward scored twice and added an assist to lead the Prince Albert Raiders to a 4-1 win over the Red Deer Rebels.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:20pm

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Braeden Cootes, a top prospect in the Vancouver Canucks organization, had a standout performance in the opening game of the Western Hockey League (WHL) playoffs. Playing for the Prince Albert Raiders, Cootes scored two goals and added an assist to lead his team to a 4-1 victory over the Red Deer Rebels.

Why it matters

Cootes' strong showing in the playoffs is a positive sign for the Canucks, who acquired the 20-year-old forward at the trade deadline. His ability to contribute offensively and play with an edge will be crucial as the Raiders look to make a deep postseason run.

The details

Cootes opened the scoring midway through the first period, snapping a wrist shot over the Rebels' goaltender on the power play. He added a second goal in the third period, firing another quick release to double Prince Albert's lead. Cootes also picked up a primary assist later in the game to complete a three-point night. Although he was involved in a scuffle after his second goal, Cootes was denied a chance at a Gordie Howe hat trick when the altercation did not escalate into a full-fledged fight.

  • The Western Hockey League playoffs began on March 28, 2026.
  • Cootes scored the opening goal of the game midway through the first period.
  • Cootes added his second goal of the game midway through the third period.
  • Cootes recorded a primary assist later in the third period.

The players

Braeden Cootes

A 20-year-old forward and top prospect in the Vancouver Canucks organization, who was acquired by the Prince Albert Raiders at the trade deadline.

Ryan McDonald

The head coach of the Prince Albert Raiders, who praised Cootes' performance and described him as a "game-breaker".

Jason Kerr

A reporter for the Prince Albert Herald who interviewed Coach McDonald after the game.

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What they’re saying

“He's a game-breaker. You watch how he hunts, whether it's on the forecheck (or) whether it's on the track. He possesses pucks underneath, has just an absolute tremendous release, and got himself inside the dots for a couple of really good looks.”

— Ryan McDonald, Head Coach, Prince Albert Raiders

What’s next

The Raiders will look to take a 2-0 series lead when they host Game 2 against the Red Deer Rebels on Saturday, March 28.

The takeaway

Braeden Cootes' standout performance in the opening game of the WHL playoffs showcases his offensive skill and physical edge, which will be crucial for the Prince Albert Raiders as they aim to make a deep postseason run. His strong showing is also a positive sign for the Vancouver Canucks, who acquired the 20-year-old forward at the trade deadline.