Wheat Kings Klippenstein, Turko drafted into the NHL, Hood selected in 6th Round
June 28, 2025
The Brandon Wheat Kings had plenty to celebrate at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, as forwards Carter Klippenstein and Brady Turko were both selected on Day 2 of the annual event.
Carter Klippenstein, an 18-year-old forward from Lethbridge, Alberta, was chosen in the fourth round, 123rd overall, by the Minnesota Wild. The 6-foot-3 power forward played 58 games for the Wheat Kings last season, tallying 14 goals and 14 assists. Known for his gritty, hard-nosed style, Klippenstein impressed scouts at the NHL Combine, finishing in the top ten of seven different testing categories—including first place in right-side agility.
Later in the afternoon, Brandon’s Brady Turko heard his name called by the Anaheim Ducks, who selected him in the seventh round, 200th overall. Turko completed his rookie WHL season with 8 goals and 26 points across 68 games. One of the youngest players selected in the draft, Turko has drawn praise for his poise and potential.
This marks the fourth time in six years that the Wheat Kings have had multiple players selected in the NHL Draft, further cementing the team’s reputation as a development hub for top-tier talent. Both Klippenstein and Turko are expected to attend their respective NHL development camps in the coming weeks.
Islanders Select Burke Hood in 6th Round
The New York Islanders kicked off their Day 2 selections at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft with a pick aimed at bolstering their goaltending pipeline. With the 170th overall pick, the team chose 18‑year‑old Burke Hood from the WHL’s Vancouver Giants.
Hood, hailing from Brandon, Manitoba, emerged as a standout rookie between the pipes. Over 42 games with the Giants, he posted a 19‑13‑6 record, a .910 save percentage, and a 3.13 goals‑against average—ranking tied for fifth in the WHL among goaltenders with at least 25 appearances