A Summer of Preparation for JP Hurlbert
JP Hurlbert, the Detroit Red Wings’ 2026 draft pick, is spending the summer in Michigan as he readies for the upcoming World Junior Summer Showcase. After being selected in the NHL Entry Draft, the young forward is using the time to fine‑tune his game and absorb new strategies.
Having posted 42 goals for the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers last season, Hurlbert enters the showcase as one of three Red Wings draftees invited to the event, which will run from July 26 to August 1 in Windsor, Ontario.
Team USA’s training camp is set for July 22‑24 at the Belfor Training Center, where Hurlbert will join other prospects under the guidance of national staff.
The prospect is also looking forward to joining the University of Michigan’s Wolverines for the NCAA season, where he will work with Coach Brandon Naurato, whose offensive schemes and player development track record have earned Hurlbert’s admiration.
Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Hurlbert said he is eager to learn from Naurato’s system and to contribute to both the Wolverines and the Red Wings’ future success.