Keets Fawcett Emerges as Regina Pats' Top Scorer with Breakout Season
Regina Pats forward Keets Fawcett has transformed from a relatively unnoticed player into his team's most potent offensive weapon during the 2025-26 WHL season. The 20-year-old from Grimshaw, Alberta, now leads the Pats with 29 goals as the team pushes for its first playoff berth since the 2022-23 campaign.
From Underwhelming Start to Scoring Leader
Fawcett's journey with the Regina Pats began quietly during his first season with the team. After being traded from the Calgary Hitmen to the Pats in November 2024, he managed only eight goals in 44 games last season. This performance raised concerns within the organization, which had acquired him in a deal that cost them captain Tanner Howe, expecting to receive a proven scoring threat.
"At the end of the year the coaches had talks with me," Fawcett revealed. "I had to make a couple hard decisions, decided to overcome stuff I was dealing with and focus on hockey. That's the starting point."
The forward acknowledged that adjusting to life in Regina after leaving Calgary presented challenges. "I lived in Calgary before that and had a lot of close friends there, a lot of memories, and it's tough to come to a new place," he explained. "There was stuff outside of hockey that was distracting and I just had to clear my head."
Remarkable Statistical Turnaround
Fawcett's 29 goals this season represent a dramatic improvement, equaling the combined total from his two previous WHL seasons. This includes the 21 goals he scored with the Calgary Hitmen before his midseason trade to Regina. His resurgence has been crucial for the Pats as they navigate the closing stretch of the regular season.
Pats head coach Brad Herauf recognized the transformation in Fawcett's game. "I don't think we got the best version of Fawcett last year," Herauf stated. "We really challenged him and he put a ton of work into himself this season. I knew he came in motivated. I saw him when he was 17 and he was a helluva hockey player."
Playing Style and Unique Name
Herauf compared Fawcett's playing style to that of NHL forward Brandon Hagel when he's at his best. "When Keets is playing his best he's got a bit of Brandon Hagel in him," the coach observed. "He can be a little ratty, but he plays fast when he has the puck and sometimes he likes to slow the game down. When Keets is playing his best he's moving his feet. He's got elite vision. He can really pass the puck, he's a shooter and he's a goal scorer."
Fawcett's distinctive first name has sparked curiosity among fans and media. When asked about its origin, the forward admitted, "I actually have no idea. This could be totally wrong, but I heard my dad had a friend whose nickname was 'Keys,' so it could have come from that."
Line Chemistry and Team Impact
This season, Fawcett began playing left wing alongside No. 1 draft choice Maddox Schultz and right wing Zach Lansard. Although Schultz and fellow prospect Liam Pue have spent parts of the season with the Regina Pat Canadians, Herauf has reunited Fawcett with his regular linemates to maximize their chemistry.
Fawcett's commitment to improvement was evident when he returned early for informal workouts preceding this season. His dedication has paid dividends, making him an essential component of the Pats' offensive strategy as they pursue postseason success.
