Canucks Prospect Braeden Cootes Shines in WHL Playoffs

The young center's two-way game and NHL-caliber shot have the Canucks excited about his future.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:49pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a hockey player's movements and actions, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant colors, capturing the energy and dynamism of the sport.Cootes' well-rounded game and two-way prowess are captured in this cubist-inspired illustration, highlighting the young center's impact on both ends of the ice.Seattle Today

Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes is emerging as a driving force behind the dominant Prince Albert Raiders in the WHL playoffs. The 2025 first-round pick has showcased his NHL-ready shot, strong two-way play, and relentless motor, leading to high expectations for his future with the Canucks.

Why it matters

Cootes' development is crucial for the Canucks, who are looking to build a strong, balanced center depth chart to complement their skilled wingers. His combination of offensive ability and defensive responsibility could make him a valuable middle-six forward at the NHL level.

The details

Cootes has been a standout performer for the Raiders in the playoffs so far, tying for the team lead with two goals and five points through the first two games. His quick release and ability to elevate the puck have been on full display, as he has scored on the power play and off the rush. Beyond his offensive contributions, Cootes has impressed with his responsible two-way play, diligent backchecking, and strong puck support in the defensive zone.

  • Cootes was traded midseason from the Seattle Thunderbirds to the Prince Albert Raiders.
  • The Raiders finished the WHL regular season with a 52-10-6 record and a plus-145 goal differential.
  • Prince Albert has outscored Red Deer 10-1 through the first two games of their first-round playoff series.

The players

Braeden Cootes

A 2025 first-round draft pick of the Vancouver Canucks, Cootes is the top center on the dominant Prince Albert Raiders team in the WHL playoffs.

Prince Albert Raiders

A WHL team that finished the regular season with a 52-10-6 record and a plus-145 goal differential, with Cootes as their top center.

Seattle Thunderbirds

The WHL team that Cootes was traded from midseason before joining the Prince Albert Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“Cootes' shot would be equally dangerous in the bumper spot of an NHL team's power-play, plus his knack for winning loose pucks would be an asset for retrievals down low.”

— Harman Dayal, Author

“Cootes is an extremely likable player because he offers a remarkably polished, detail-oriented game.”

— Harman Dayal, Author

What’s next

Cootes will look to continue his strong playoff performance as the Prince Albert Raiders aim to make a deep run in the WHL postseason. His development will be closely watched by the Canucks organization as they evaluate his readiness for the NHL.

The takeaway

Braeden Cootes has shown the Canucks that he has the tools to become a valuable two-way center at the NHL level, with his NHL-caliber shot, strong defensive play, and relentless motor. While he may not project as a top-line center, his well-rounded game could make him an important piece of the Canucks' future middle-six.