The Saskatoon Blades entered the 2024-2025 WHL season with a significantly different look compared to the previous year. Following a season where they fell just short of the WHL Championship Final, losing in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Final, several veteran stars departed the team. This led to a youth movement, with a roster featuring 10 rookies who were expected to play a more tight, lockdown style of hockey.
Despite the changes and the loss of key players like Trevor Wong, Egor Sidorov, and Fraser Minten, the Blades had a strong 2024-25 season. Under the leadership of homegrown head coach Dan DaSilva, in his first season after serving as an associate coach, the team defied expectations. They maintained a competitive edge in the Eastern Conference, posting a 37-23-4-4 record and threatening for the East Division title. DaSilva emphasized continuous improvement and exceeding external expectations through hard work and competition.
Several players stepped up to fill the void left by the departed veterans. Rowan Calvert and Tyler Parr, both 19-year-old forwards and alternate captains, achieved career highs in goals. Ben Riche, acquired from the Victoria Royals, also had a career year. Goaltender Evan Gardner continued to impress, building on his strong rookie season and solidifying his position as a key player.
Throughout the first half of the season, the Blades showcased their strengths in various areas. They were close behind the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Eastern Conference standings and had games in hand to potentially take over first place. Tanner Molendyk and David Lewandowski represented their respective countries at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Ice Hockey Championship. Goalie Evan Gardner held a high rank in WHL save percentage. Multiple Blades players reached double-digit goal totals, and the team's power play ranked among the league's best.
However, the season wasn't without its challenges. After a strong start, where they were the first team to reach 10 wins and held first place in the Eastern Conference, the Blades ultimately finished second in the East Division after losing a crucial final regular season game to the Prince Albert Raiders. In the playoffs, they faced a veteran-laden Calgary Hitmen team and were swept in the first round. Despite the disappointing end, the team gained valuable experience.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season, the Blades are aiming to build on their accomplishments and take the next step. With a core group returning, including Tyler Parr as the newly appointed captain, Rowan Calvert, and David Lewandowski, the team is expected to contend once again. The addition of Tristen Doyle on defense and the solid goaltending of Evan Gardner and Ethan McCallum provide stability. Newcomers like Dustin Willhoft and Dominik Petr add depth to the forward group.
General Manager Colin Priestner expressed excitement about the team's depth and potential. Coach DaSilva's expectations are high, focusing on continued growth and success. The Blades are determined to compete for the WHL title and bring a championship to Saskatoon.
