14-Year-Old Calgary Defenceman Granted Exceptional Player Status by Hockey Canada

CALGARY — Hockey Canada made a historic decision on Monday, granting 14-year-old defenceman Landon DuPont exceptional player status. This means that DuPont will be eligible for the upcoming Western Hockey League draft on May 9 and will be able to play in the league on a full-time basis starting next season.

DuPont’s exceptional player status makes him the first defenceman and only the second player in WHL history to receive this designation. The only other player to have received this status was Chicago Blackhawks rookie Connor Bedard in 2020.

This prestigious honor has only been awarded to a total of nine players in Canadian Hockey League history since its creation in 2005. Among the notable recipients are NHL stars John Tavares, Aaron Ekblad, and Connor McDavid.

WHL commissioner Dan Near praised DuPont, stating, “Landon is a fine young man with tremendous talent on the ice, solid moral character, a positive attitude, and a great work ethic. He is truly deserving of this recognition, and we look forward to seeing him continue his development in the WHL.”

DuPont expressed his gratitude for the designation, saying, “I’m extremely humbled to have received this designation. I’m excited to continue my development in the WHL and will work hard every day to improve.”

The talented five-foot-11, 170-pound defenceman had an impressive season at Edge School, leading all defencemen in scoring with 62 points in 30 regular-season games. His outstanding performance helped Edge School capture the league title in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League.

With his exceptional player status, DuPont is now set to make his mark in the WHL and is poised to be a top prospect for the NHL draft in the future. Fans and scouts alike will be eagerly watching his development as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his hockey career.