Wheat Kings Add International Talent in CHL Import Draft, 2026-27 schedule released

The Brandon Wheat Kings have added two intriguing international prospects after making a pair of selections in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, bolstering both their forward group and defensive corps ahead of the 2026-27 Western Hockey League season.

With the 45th overall pick, Brandon selected Kristof Muissu, a 6-foot-3 forward who brings an impressive combination of size, skill and professional experience. Muissu, who holds dual citizenship in Russia and the Republic of the Congo, is coming off an outstanding season in Russia’s MHL, recording 39 goals and 64 points in 57 games. The 19-year-old has also appeared in 18 KHL games over the past two seasons, giving him valuable experience against professional competition.

The Wheat Kings then addressed their blue line with the 106th overall selection, choosing Finnish defenceman Ilari Kapanen.

The 19-year-old split last season between Sweden’s junior ranks and Finland’s top professional league, Liiga. Although injuries limited him to just 13 games, Kapanen has represented Finland internationally and is regarded as a mobile, skilled defenceman with the potential to make an immediate impact in North America.

Brandon opted not to use its third and final selection in the draft.

The 2026 CHL Import Draft featured updated rules allowing clubs to select 20-year-old import players in any round, providing teams with greater flexibility to add experienced international talent. The Wheat Kings believe they have done exactly that, adding a proven offensive threat in Muissu and an experienced European blueliner in Kapanen as they continue building toward what they hope will be a successful 2026-27 campaign.

2026-27 Schedule Released