Braeden Cootes Leads Raiders to Game 1 Win With Two Goals and an Assist

Overview

• Cootes powered Prince Albert’s 4–1 series opener, which finished Friday, with two goals, one assist, six shots, and a 12-for-19 night on faceoffs.
• The victory over Red Deer put the Raiders up 1–0, with Game 2 set for Saturday in Prince Albert and the series moving to Red Deer on Tuesday.
• Head coach Ryan McDonald called Cootes a game-breaker and praised his forechecking, puck protection, and quick release that created high-danger looks.
• The 19-year-old’s season ran through NHL games with the Canucks, a World Juniors bronze with Canada, and a Jan. 8 trade from Seattle that cost four players and four WHL picks, including two first-rounders.
• Drafted 15th overall by Vancouver in 2025, Cootes’ playoff impact strengthens his case as the Canucks’ top prospect at a time when attention shifts to their CHL pipeline.