Ethan Prow and Ray Pigozzi are two USHL players who are looking to bolster their draft stock this season. Both players were recently selected to represent the United States at the World Jr. A Challenge and will look to show NHL scouts they have what it takes.

Nelson Gadoury was a late cut by the Edmonton Oil Kings, but the 16-year-old forward is already showing that he’ll be an WHL regular sooner than later.

2013 is shaping up to be a big year for NHL draft eligibles in the WHL. Ryan Pulock, Alex Forsberg, and Morgan Klimchuk are 3 more players who are already solidifying themselves as potential 1st round players.

Connor Rankin was one of the most productive 16-year-old rookies in the WHL last year. Expectations have increased for the Tri-City forward this year, and so far Rankin is living up to the billing.

Brad Lytle looks at some of the early season surprises in the BCHL and a couple of 16-year-old’s who are already making an early impact in their junior hockey careers.