BY Jonathan Huntington
REGINA – Maddox Schultz’s stock is on the rise.
After a spectacular performance Wednesday – notching his first WHL hat trick, including the tying goal with 12 seconds remaining and scoring the winner in OT – the 15-year-old’s highlight reel is getting longer.
It also means the exceptional forward is going to continue to play a vital role for the WHL’s Regina Pats during their battle to make the playoffs – and won’t be re-joining the Pat Canadians before the end of their regular season.
“I don’t play another Pat Cs game until the playoffs,” said Schultz. While plans can change, it appears Schultz will stay with his WHL club until at least the end of the month. Opening night of the SMAAAHL playoffs is February 28th.
Under the new rules, exceptional 15-year-olds can play up to 34 games in the WHL. Entering tonight’s action, Schultz can play up to 14 more games in the WHL this season. The Pats have 19 games remaining and currently sit three points below the final playoff spot.
As the number one overall pick in the 2025 WHL draft, Schultz entered tonight with 16 points in 20 WHL games – including five points in the last two games. “The coaching staff has been crucial by helping me through (this first season) with little pointers and tips,” continued Schultz. “I have a lot more time with the puck now (compared to the start of the season) and making more confident plays and not rushing myself.”
The growth in Schultz’s game has placed him in a very interesting position where two teams covet him at a crucial part of the year.
Without their star forward, the Pat Cs have lost back-to-back games this week and slipped out of first-place by one point. Regina still controls its fate and can claim first place (and home ice advantage through the playoffs) by winning their final four games – but will be without Schultz. The gifted centreman is averaging nearly three points a game in the SMAAAHL and can control key moments on the ice.
But matching his talent on the ice, Schultz is handling the unique situation with impressive maturity and poise while off the ice. A prime example came late Wednesday night after watching the game from the stands, Schultz was in the dressing room with his teammates and friends as the Pat Cs digested their OT loss to Moose Jaw.
“It’s two different squads (right now),” commented Schultz. “One team (the Pat Cs) at the top (of the standings) and one team (Regina Pats) fighting their way in (to the playoffs). I am trying to do anything I can (to help).”
