Kyle Masters

June 2023 – Masters was one of the most surprising players in the WHL during the 2022-23 season. He put up 65 points in 66 games during the regular season compared to his 2021-22 season where he put up only 14 points in 65 games. He essentially exploded offensively and showed scouts that he has incredible offensive upside. Masters has signed an ELC with Minnesota and is expected to turn professional next season. It will be interesting if Masters is able to build on his progression this season, as it seemingly came out of nowhere. Nathan Leblanc

January 2023 – Masters, who was drafted in the 4th round at the 2021 NHL draft, has been having a strong season in the WHL for Kamloops Blazers. In his previous three seasons in the WHL, Masters had played for the Red Deer Rebels, where he had been a strong puck-moving defenseman who lacked the ability to put up points. His time with Kamloops has transformed him into a current PPG player with six goals and 29 assists in only 33 games played. This upwards trend in points is vital for his development, as he will transition to professional hockey within the next couple of years. He remains a good prospect for the Wild, especially as Minnesota doesn’t have many blue-chip prospects at the blue line. Expect Masters to be a potential third-line puck-moving defenseman at the NHL level. Nathan Leblanc