The Chilliwack Chiefs may be headed for the second round of the BCHL playoffs, but they’ve already made a splash for 2024-2025 ahead of the offseason.
The team officially announced the signing of 2008-born forward Caleb Malhotra on Friday.
The 15-year-old most recently played for Vaughan Kings U16 AAA team in Ontario, and while he battled injuries, was a team standout amassing 19 points in just 20 games played.
The 6-foot-1 centre is revered for his speed, hockey IQ and play-making abilities, especially one-on-one.
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“We’re extremely excited to add Caleb and his family to our organization. Not only is Caleb a young, high-end talent, but he and his family certainly align with our culture here in Chilliwack,” said Chiefs head coach and general manager Brian Maloney.
Although moving from Ontario, coming to Chilliwack will be a homecoming of sorts for the youngster. Malhotra was born in Victoria and spent much of his minor hockey career playing in Vancouver, while his father Manny – who currently serves as an assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs – played for the Canucks.
“With the BCHL shift towards independence, it’s allowed Canadian hockey families from all over the option to choose more freely and what best fits their child’s development,” said Maloney.
Despite having many options when choosing where to play his junior hockey, Malhotra ultimately chose the BCHL and the Chiefs because of the importance of education and the path to the NCAA.
“I’m very excited to join the Chilliwack Chiefs and continue to build my hockey journey in the BCHL,” said Malhotra.
The Chiefs are headed for the coastal semifinals, awaiting the winner of the other quarterfinals between the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and Coquitlam Express.