Spokane Chiefs Earn Top Ranking With Strong Start

The team leads the U.S. Division with a 10-1-0-0 record to open the season.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Hockey

Spokane Chiefs Earn Top Ranking With Strong Start

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The Spokane Chiefs have secured the top spot in the Canadian Hockey League power rankings after starting their season with a 10-1-0-0 record. The team currently leads the U.S. Division with 20 points.

Why it matters

The ranking reflects the team's dominant early-season form, anchored by a high-performing offense and reliable goaltending. Their strong performance establishes them as a frontrunner within the division.

The team maintains a 20.8% power play percentage and an 86.0% penalty kill efficiency. Goaltender Carter Esler has recorded nine wins with a 1.64 goals against average and a 93.7% save percentage.

The players

Spokane Chiefs

The Spokane Chiefs are a major junior ice hockey team competing in the Western Hockey League based in Washington.

Canadian Hockey League

The Canadian Hockey League is the governing body that oversees the three major junior ice hockey leagues across Canada and the United States.

Portland Winterhawks

The Portland Winterhawks are a professional-style major junior hockey team that competes in the Western Hockey League.

Owen Martin

Owen Martin is a forward playing for the Spokane Chiefs who has reached eight goals in eight games this season.

Carter Esler

Carter Esler is the goaltender for the Spokane Chiefs who has appeared in nine of the first 11 games for the team.

The details

The Chiefs recently extended their dominance over the Portland Winterhawks to 15 consecutive games, including two home victories secured during the week of October 20, 2026. Forward Owen Martin has been a key contributor, netting eight goals across his eight appearances this season.

Jan. 2, 2025: Spokane began 15-game win streak against Portland.
Last week: Spokane won two home games against Portland.
Friday: Spokane hosts Medicine Hat.

Season Trajectory

The Chiefs have climbed to the top of the CHL power rankings, shifting the competitive balance within the Western Hockey League. This early success forces opponents to adjust their strategies as the team prepares to maintain its momentum during an upcoming four-game road trip.

The team holds a clear lead in the U.S. Division with 20 points, putting them in an optimal position for upcoming divisional standings. With a high save percentage from Carter Esler, the defensive core remains a consistent point of reliance for the team's success.

The takeaway

Maintaining a winning percentage with consistent special teams play is the hallmark of the current Chiefs squad. The upcoming seven-day, four-game road trip will be a critical test of their ability to translate home-ice success to different environments.