Achi news desk-
The Western Hockey League (WHL) officially introduced Calgary’s Landon DuPont as the second player in league history to be granted exceptional status by Hockey Canada.
The 14-year-old right-handed defenseman is the ninth player to be given the green light to join the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) full-time a year early, joining the likes of Connor Bedard and Connor McDavid.
“It’s such an honor for me,” DuPont said Monday, with his mother and father sitting next to him as he was introduced to the media.
“I am extremely humbled to have received this designation,” said DuPont, who will turn 15 on May 28.
DuPont hit the blue line for the Edge School under-18 team last season, tallying 19 goals and 43 assists in 30 games to lead all defensemen in points in the Canadian Sports School Hockey League (CSSHL).
DuPont is expected to be drafted first overall by the Everett Silvertips on May 9 and will be a Grade 10 when the WHL season begins.
“Landon is a great young man, who not only possesses tremendous talent on the ice, but has been raised with strong moral character, a positive attitude and a great work ethic,” said Dan Near, WHL commissioner.
DuPont is the son of former Calgary Flames defenseman Micki DuPont.
DuPont caught everyone’s attention with his play at the Circle K Classic back in December, where he stood out despite playing against players years older than him. Now he will be playing against some players who are five years older than he is in the WHL.
Exceptional status gives younger players the opportunity to join the WHL a year early.
Although the junior will be the second WHL player to be recognized, eight other Canadian hockey players have been given the status, including Bedard:
- 2022: Michael Misa, center;
- 2020: Connor Bedard, center;
- 2019: Shane Wright, center;
- 2015: Joe Veleno, center/left wing;
- 2013: Sean Day, defender;
- 2012: Connor McDavid, center;
- 2011: Aaron Ekblad, defenseman; a duck
- 2005: John Tavares, center.
