The Everett Silvertips made history on May 23 in Kelowna, British Columbia, securing their franchise’s first-ever Memorial Cup victory. The 2026 WHL champions defeated the Chicoutimi Saguenéens 5-3 in a game defined by contributions from across the lineup rather than star power alone.
The win marked an important step for a team that has waited a long time for this moment. Coach Steve Hamilton emphasized the group’s resilience after years of playoff disappointments.
Opening goal sets historic tone
Jesse Heslop etched his name into Silvertips lore by scoring the team’s first goal in Memorial Cup play just 1:14 into the first period. The 20-year-old winger beat goaltender Lucas Beckman to give Everett an early lead.
Heslop has played more than 300 combined regular-season and playoff games for the franchise, making his milestone goal particularly fitting. Coach Hamilton described him as a “fabric guy” who has been through the organization’s ups and downs.
The moment carried extra weight for a player who has been part of the team for so long. His presence on the scoresheet symbolized the continuity and dedication that helped Everett reach this stage.
Depth players deliver key strikes
Lukas Kaplan tied the game at 2-2 just 33 seconds after Chicoutimi took a brief lead early in the second period. His quick response prevented any momentum shift in favor of the Saguenéens.
Zackary Shantz extended the advantage later in the period with a goal assisted by a highlight-reel play from Heslop. Shantz credited his teammate afterward, calling the pass “unreal” from an “unreal player.”
These contributions from role players proved decisive. Everett’s ability to answer immediately after falling behind showcased the steady identity Hamilton has instilled in the group.
Top talents close out the win
Carter Bear restored a two-goal lead less than a minute after Shantz’s marker, finishing a strong setup from projected 2027 first overall pick Landon DuPont. The play highlighted the chemistry among Everett’s skilled forwards and defensemen.
Matias Vanhanen sealed the result with a shorthanded empty-net goal in the final seconds of the third period. DuPont spoke post-game about reading the play and delivering the puck to Bear in a dangerous area.
DuPont, the CHL Rookie of the Year in 2025 and the first defenseman to receive exceptional player status in the WHL, remained focused on enjoying the tournament experience rather than feeling pressure.
Resilience defines Silvertips identity
Hamilton noted after the game that responding quickly to adversity is central to the team’s approach. The 33-second deficit in the second period tested that resolve, and Everett passed with flying colors.
The Silvertips limited any potential snowball effect from Chicoutimi’s brief lead. Their push after tying the score helped them carry momentum into the later stages.
This resilience, combined with timely scoring from multiple lines, explains why Everett captured the WHL title and now sits at 1-0 in the Memorial Cup round-robin.
Next steps in the tournament
Everett enjoys a day off before facing the Kitchener Rangers on Monday, May 25. The OHL champions represent the next test for a squad looking to build on this strong start.
Chicoutimi returns to action Sunday, May 24, against the host Kelowna Rockets in a must-win matchup for both teams. A loss would leave either side at 0-2.
The Silvertips have shown they can rely on contributions from every part of the roster. That balance positions them well as the tournament continues at Prospera Place.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.