Maddox Schultz is making waves in the hockey world. He was picked first by the Regina Pats in the 2025 WHL Prospect Draft. Instead of going for exceptional player status, he chose to play more games.
In the 2025-26 season, he played 34 games with Regina. He scored 29 points, with 15 goals and 14 assists. At the under-18 level, he got 60 points in 21 games.
At the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Schultz helped Canada win gold. He led with 10 points in five games. He was also an alternate captain and compared to Sidney Crosby by Landon DuPont.
It’s clear why Schultz is a top pick for the NHL Draft. His smart growth and impressive record promise a bright future in hockey.
Performance and Potencial
Maddox Schultz has shown he’s a top prospect for the NHL draft. In the 2025-26 WHL season, he played 34 games with the Regina Pats. He scored 15 goals and 14 assists, totaling 29 points. This means he could score 58 points in a full 68-game season.
At just 15, Schultz has already outdone many players. He’s close to Connor McDavid’s stats at the same age. This shows he has the skills to be a top NHL player.
Schultz’s skills aren’t just in the WHL. In AAA hockey, he averaged 2.86 points per game. He’s known for his speed, powerful shot, and playmaking. Scouts say he’s a complete player, good at both offense and defense.
Craig Button from TSN says Schultz is a game-changer. Canada coach Ryan Oulahen praises his physicality and two-way skills. His hard work and determination show he’s ready for professional hockey.
| Player | Age | WHL Points | Games Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maddox Schultz | 15 | 29 | 34 |
| Connor McDavid | 15 | 37 | 38 |
| Michael Misa | 15 | 25 | 30 |
| Joe Veleno | 15 | 28 | 34 |
Maddox Schultz is a rare talent, ready for the NHL draft. His skating, shot, and vision make him a promising candidate.
Comparisons with Past Draft Picks
The excitement around Maddox Schultz is growing. He’s being compared to some of the NHL’s greatest talents. Experts say he reminds them of Sidney Crosby.
Landon DuPont, a top pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, sees a lot of Crosby in Schultz. He praises Schultz’s complete game, both with and without the puck.
WHL scout Todd Ripplinger notes Schultz’s physical build. He says Schultz is “built like Crosby” and can score in tight spots. His skating is a standout feature, making him a strong player on the ice.
Ripplinger warns against comparing Schultz to Connor Bedard. He sees Schultz as a “more of a 200-foot player” instead of a pure scorer.
Schultz’s production is impressive, with 58 points at 15. This beats other players like Michael Misa and Joe Veleno at the same age. His pace is even close to Connor McDavid’s early totals.
The WHL has seen great talent, like Bedard with 143 points at 17. Gavin McKenna also shone in playoffs.
Looking at Schultz’s career, comparisons to greats are tough. But his patient approach might help him in the 2028 NHL Draft. For more on Schultz’s selection, read this article on the Regina Pats’ choice.
Team Interests & Strategies
NHL teams are keeping a close eye on Maddox Schultz as the 2028 draft gets closer. His play, like at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup with Liam Pue, has caught many scouts’ attention. They see his skill and teamwork, showing he can play at a high level.
For the 2026-27 WHL season, Schultz will play for the Regina Pats again. He chose to play in 34 games instead of 68, focusing on growing his skills. This choice helps him develop without overdoing it.
Teams are watching how Schultz grows, as he’s 5-foot-10 now but could get taller. His talent, hard work, and leadership make him a great pick for teams looking to draft.
Upcoming evaluation milestones include:
| Event | Date | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup | August 2026 | Czechia | Opportunity to showcase skills against international competition |
| 2027 World Junior Championship | December 2026 | Edmonton & Red Deer, Alberta | High visibility event for NHL scouts |
| 2026-27 WHL Season | September 2026 – March 2027 | Regina, Canada | Full-time return to competitive play |
As teams look at the draft lottery, they’ll consider Schultz’s skills against other top players. His teamwork with Pue and leadership are key. Schultz is becoming a top choice for the NHL draft with each season.
Predictions for the 2028 NHL Draft
Maddox Schultz is making a big splash in hockey circles. He’s seen as the top pick for the 2028 NHL Draft. Steven Ellis from Daily Faceoff says Schultz is “the top prize as of now.” He praises Schultz’s skill and hockey smarts.
But Schultz isn’t alone in the spotlight. Joey Cullen, the brother of a 2026 draft pick, is also catching eyes. He’s playing for Team USA at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. This rivalry makes the draft even more exciting, with many young talents yet to be seen.
Madison Delaval from Elite Prospects notes the difficulty in judging 2010-born players. Schultz will face a big test in the WHL with Regina. He might also play in international events like the World Junior Championship. These experiences will help him grow.
As Schultz gets older and improves his game, everyone will watch him closely. His talent, hard work, and hockey knowledge make him stand out. Even though the draft is far off, Schultz looks set to stay in the running for the top spot.