2027 NHL Draft Watch: Brock Cripps, Artem Katsuro and Kayden Stroeder – NetFront Sports Hockey

By Arik KrauseEditor

September 22, 20262 min read

The road to the 2027 NHL Draft has started, and the Western Hockey League already features several players worth following closely.

In the first episode of NetFront Sports’ 2027 NHL Draft Watch, Arik Krause breaks down three WHL prospects who have created early interest: Prince Albert Raiders defenceman Brock Cripps, Calgary Hitmen forward Artem Katsuro and Edmonton Oil Kings forward Kayden Stroeder.

Brock Cripps, Prince Albert Raiders

Cripps enters the season as one of the more recognizable draft-eligible defencemen in the WHL. The episode examines his skating, puck movement, offensive instincts and the areas that could determine how high he climbs during his draft year.

Artem Katsuro, Calgary Hitmen

Katsuro made an immediate impression during Calgary’s opening weekend. His size, speed and activity allowed him to affect play across the ice, including his first WHL goal against Edmonton. His puck control at top speed remains an important development point, but the physical tools give him legitimate upside as he adjusts to the league.

Kayden Stroeder, Edmonton Oil Kings

Stroeder brings pace and offensive potential to Edmonton’s young forward group. The episode looks at the traits behind his early draft attention and what scouts should monitor as his role develops through the season.

What This Series Will Track

NetFront Sports’ Draft Watch will follow WHL prospects throughout the 2026-27 season using live observations, video review and statistical context. Each episode will focus on what a player does well, where improvement is required and how that evaluation changes as the sample grows.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Arik Krause

Editor

Arik Krause is the Founder/COO of NetFront Sports

September 22, 2026