Everett Silvertips reach semifinal, DuPont injury uncertain

The Everett Silvertips defeated the host Kelowna Rockets 4-0 on Wednesday night to advance to the semifinal of the Memorial Cup, but the victory was overshadowed by uncertainty surrounding the status of their star defenseman, Landon DuPont. The Western Hockey League champions will face the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League champion Chicoutimi Saguenéens on Friday, with the winner advancing to Sunday's final against the Ontario Hockey League champion Kitchener Rangers.

DuPont, a top prospect for the 2027 NHL draft who turned 17 on Thursday, was a surprising late scratch from Wednesday's round-robin finale due to an undisclosed injury. His absence shifted focus to his availability for the remainder of the tournament. Everett coach Steve Hamilton declined to provide a definitive update but struck an optimistic tone. "I don't know if I can put a number on that right now," Hamilton said Wednesday. "What I do know is if there's a possibility, he's in. He'll find a way."

The coach acknowledged DuPont is dealing with a minor injury, stating the player is "a little nicked up" and that the decision to hold him out was precautionary. DuPont participated in the pre-game warmup and did...