WHL Moose Jaw Warriors

'It's a Big Honour': Yager Tops Among Rookies in WHL

June 2, 2022 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Moose Jaw Warriors News Release


Brayden Yager put together one of the best rookie seasons in Moose Jaw Warriors' history and on Wednesday, it was recognized by the Western Hockey League.

Yager was awarded the Jim Piggott Memorial Award as the WHL Rookie of the Year during the 2022 WHL Awards.

"It's pretty special, it's a big honour for sure," Yager said on Thursday.

Yager said winning Rookie of the Year was a goal of his coming into the season and it's something he will remember for a long time.

"It's a pretty big award and I'll never forget this moment," he said. "Going to try and keep moving forward and have a big year this coming year as well."

The Saskatoon product was a key part of the Warriors' lineup throughout the season, posting 34 goals and 59 points in 63 games.

His 34 goals set a new high-water mark for the organization, breaking a 38-year-old record held by NHL great Theo Fleury.

Yager said he's pleased with how the season turned out.

"I didn't really have a number in mind going into the season, but I was just going tot try and play my game and that's when I'm at my best," he said. "I got the chance to play with some pretty good players as well, so that plays a big part."

After his stellar regular season, Yager added three goals and seven points in 10 playoff games as he helped the Warriors advance into the second round of the 2022 WHL Playoffs.

He said gaining that experience was a highlight for him this season.

"We're a pretty young team, looking to do some pretty special things next season, so that was really good for us as a group," Yager said. "That will give us confidence going into next year."

The 16-year-old forward is now focused on working towards an even bigger season in his second year.

"A big one for me is always power, I want to be pretty powerful, so trying to gain strength and then get quicker towards the end of summer," Yager said.

Yager is the fourth Warrior in history to win the league's rookie of the year award. He's also the second in the past four seasons.

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