Julien Maze Credits Calgary Hitmen for Career Transformation in WHL Playoffs
Dynamic forward Julien Maze firmly believes that joining the Calgary Hitmen stands as "the best decision in my entire life." His arrival at the city's major junior hockey club has propelled both his personal performance and the team's success during the Western Hockey League playoffs.
Finding Direction Through the WHL Rat Race
Maze has navigated the competitive landscape of the Western Hockey League with newfound clarity since being acquired by the Hitmen in December. The 18-year-old Edmonton native has emerged as an offensive powerhouse, particularly during the current playoff run.
"I think my whole life I've been an offensive player," Maze explained. "I really like to score and make plays. So I think if I can contribute... that's everything I want to do."
Playoff Performance Speaks Volumes
Through six playoff games, Maze has accumulated an impressive eight points. His standout performance came during Game 2 of the WHL Eastern Conference quarterfinal sweep against the Brandon Wheat Kings, where he recorded a sensational six-point evening.
This offensive explosion has helped position the Hitmen among the eight teams still competing in the WHL playoffs, currently battling for a spot in the conference finals despite trailing 2-0 in their second-round series against the Medicine Hat Tigers.
Coaching Support Fuels Development
Maze attributes much of his growth to the guidance from the Hitmen coaching staff. "I've been really working with assistant coach Brad Moran and head coach Dustin Friesen, and they've been really helping me all over in just any situation," he shared.
"It's a lot of belief in your teammates and coaching staff, and I think they've done a really good job on that with me," Maze continued. "And I think they think the sky's the limit for me. So just it's really reassuring to hear that, and I think it's mostly all them just letting me play my game."
From Stunted Growth to Blossoming Talent
Before his 18-year-old season with the Hitmen, Maze's offensive production appeared limited. During parts of three campaigns with the Everett Silvertips—the team that drafted him 20th overall in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft—he managed just eight goals and 32 points total.
Whether due to age, situational factors, or a combination of both, Maze's potential remained untapped until his arrival in Calgary ahead of the WHL trade deadline. Now, he's blossoming into the complete player the coaching staff envisioned.
Team Chemistry and Playoff Push
"I just think my teammates... we're all really connected," Maze said regarding the Hitmen's playoff performance. "And I think our game is coming along."
The team will need that connection to overcome their 2-0 series deficit against the Medicine Hat Tigers. After falling 3-2 in overtime during Game 1 and 4-3 in Game 2, the Hitmen return to Scotiabank Saddledome needing more of Maze's breakout energy to extend their playoff journey.
As the WHL playoffs continue, Julien Maze's transformation from promising prospect to playoff performer stands as a testament to the impact of the right team environment and coaching support in developing young hockey talent.
