Coaching Continuity Secured
The Spokane Chiefs have secured the services of head coach Brad Lauer and assistant coach Jake Toporowski through contract extensions that keep the duo at the helm for the foreseeable future.
Lauer, who arrived ahead of the 2024‑25 season, quickly made his mark, earning WHL Coach of the Year honors after guiding the Edmonton Oil Kings to the Ed Chynoweth Cup in 2021‑22 and later leading the Chiefs to the league championship series in 2024‑25. His first two seasons in Spokane have already produced 96 victories and two playoff appearances, a testament to his offensive acumen and player development.
Toporowski, a product of the Chiefs’ own junior ranks, spent a decade as a defenseman with the club, appearing in 100 games between 2014 and 2018. The son of former Chief Kerry Toporowski and brother of Luke Toporowski, he returned to the organization this season to join the coaching staff, expressing enthusiasm about continuing his playing‑career legacy in a new capacity.
Front‑Office Leadership Refresh
Alongside the coaching extensions, the franchise announced the promotion of George Ross to assistant general manager. Ross, who has been part of Spokane’s scouting department since the 2014‑15 season, now oversees the entire scouting operation, directing both the WHL Prospects Draft and the CHL Import Draft.
The move follows his recent elevation to director of player personnel, a role in which he has already begun shaping the team’s draft strategies and player acquisition plans. His deep familiarity with the organization’s pipeline positions him to influence roster construction at the highest level.
Support Staff Evolution
Brian Pellerin was also named associate coach prior to the 2024‑25 campaign, bringing his experience from stints in Portland and Tri‑City to the Chiefs’ bench. His contribution helped the club secure back‑to‑back playoff berths, underscoring the value of continuity across the coaching and administrative layers.