Hockey

Justice Christensen Commits to Grand Rapids Griffins After Stellar WHL Campaign

The 20‑year‑old defenseman caps a breakout season with a two‑year AHL deal

A Breakout Season in the WHL

Justice Christensen, a 20‑year‑old defenseman, completed his fourth campaign with the Prince Albert Raiders and served as the club’s captain for the second straight year. The Saskatchewan native logged 48 points — 18 goals and 30 assists — along with 84 penalty minutes and a plus‑36 rating across 63 regular‑season games.

His offensive output placed him among the league’s top blue‑liners, with his 18 goals tying for eighth among all WHL defensemen. Christensen also led the Raiders to the WHL Final, where he contributed 14 points — five goals and nine assists — while maintaining a plus‑seven rating and 22 penalty minutes over 20 playoff contests.

During the postseason he featured in a six‑game point streak, highlighted by a game‑winning goal in the opening match against Everett. He recorded three separate three‑point outings and posted a season‑high four‑point performance on Jan. 20, while a six‑game streak from Dec. 14 to Jan. 2 showcased his consistency with five goals and four assists.

Looking Ahead to the AHL

The strong showing earned him a two‑year American Hockey League contract with the Grand Rapids Griffins, slated to begin in the 2026‑27 season. The deal marks the next step in his development as he transitions to the professional ranks.

Christensen enters the Griffins’ system with a clear set of expectations, having already set junior career highs in points and plus‑minus rating. Coaches will look to his offensive upside and physical play to bolster the team’s blue line, while his experience as a captain should translate into leadership responsibilities in Grand Rapids.

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