Prince Albert’s Klassen to captain WHL’s Winterhawks

Prince Albert’s Gabe Klassen has quickly made himself indispensable to the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks. After posting a career season last year and starting this campaign red-hot, Klassen has been named the Winterhawks’ new captain.

Klassen, a 2003-born forward who played his minor hockey with the U15 Raiders and the U18 Mintos before making the leap to the WHL, has posted eight goals in just four games this season. Not only does that lead the team, but it also places him tied for fourth in the WHL.

Before the season began, Klassen was invited to the rookie showcase with the Colorado Avalanche. Although undrafted, he’s attracted notice from the next level as he continues his offensive ascension.

“We had a good team last year and I was able to get quite a bit of opportunity,” he said before departing for the tournament. “Being able to play a consistent role on the team last year and being able to play quite a bit, I was able to surround myself with some pretty good players.”