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WHL Moose Jaw Warriors

'This Class Is Pretty Special': Yager, Unger Excited About Top Prospects Game Invites

December 12, 2022 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Moose Jaw Warriors News Release


There are a few milestones on the way to the NHL Draft, Brayden Yager and Jackson Unger will be crossing one off the list next month.

The Moose Jaw Warriors' duo was named to the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Monday, joining 38 other top players from across the Canadian Hockey League.

"It's a big honour," Yager said. "You look at the class of 2005s and the NHL Draft prospects in this class is pretty special, so to be a part of that group is pretty cool."

Yager was an 'A' rated skater, which signifies a first-round prospect, on NHL Central Scouting's Preliminary Players to Watch List released earlier this season, while Unger came in as a 'C' prospect, which indicates a fourth-sixth round candidate.

Unger said he was excited to get the call.

"It wasn't really on my mind, I didn't really expect it," he said. "It's a huge accomplishment and I'm really excited."

Out of the 40 players invited, only four goaltenders earn an invite.

Unger is just the third Warriors' goalie to be selected to take part in the game, joining Zach Sawchenko (2016) and Brock Gould (2020).

"Top-four in the country with some recognizable faces to be competing, it's good," Unger said.

In 12 appearances this season, Unger has posted a 5-6-0-0 record with a 3.84 goals against average and a 0.875 save percentage.

He's found is footing as the season has gone on, including wins in three of his last four starts.

"It's going to be high competition, lots of skill there," Unger said. "I'm sure I'll only play half the game, so I got a period and a half to worry about, but it's going to be a tough game."

Yager will have a lot of eyes on him during the contest as he's projected to be a top-five pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

The Saskatoon product said he's looking to just enjoy the experience.

"It's a competitive game and there's a bunch of the best players in our age group, so it will be super cool and super fun," Yager said.

"I'm just going to go there and try to have fun, not really going there to compare myself to anybody, but just go there and have fun."

After winning CHL Rookie of the Year last season, Yager has followed it up with a strong sophomore campaign for the Warriors, posting 18 goals and 37 points in 30 games.

He said he felt like he had a slow start, but is picking up the pace now.

"I'm liking how the team is playing, we're just going to keep building and moving forward," Yager said.

The 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game hits the ice at the Langley Events Centre on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023.

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Western Hockey League Stories from December 12, 2022


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