Gavin Nemis is not a typical Western Hockey League rookie, making the jump to the Kamloops Blazers in time for his 20-year-old campaign.

“Everybody’s path is a little different,” said Nemis, a six-foot, 170-pound forward from Winnipeg. “I started in the M.J. [Junior A Manitoba Junior Hockey League], a young guy who didn’t play too much, and kind of earned my opportunity there. That allowed me to advance to the BCHL [Junior A B.C. Hockey League], where I had a strong season, and now I’m here. I’m excited to work here and earn a spot higher up in the lineup.”

Nemis tallied 14 goals and 50 points in 53 games for the Dauphin Kings in 2024–2025 and 20 goals and 48 points in 50 with the Cowichan Valley Capitals in 2025–2026.

His agent reached out to Blazers’ general manager Shaun Clouston.

“We immediately recognized some qualities that we felt would fit into what we’re doing,” Clouston said. “He plays with pace. He played centre and supported pucks, faces the play. He could get himself open on the breakout, redistribute the puck, went to the net and was hard on the forecheck.”

Nemis signed with the Blazers in June.

A successful jump to the major junior ranks seems more plausible to the Blazers considering the success last season of Junior A transfers Cooper Moore and Josh Evaschesen, said Clouston.

WHL rookies at 19, Evaschesen racked up 73 points, including 33 goals, in 67 games and Moore tallied 40 points, including 10 goals, in 68 games. 

The Blazers — who lost their top five scorers (including Evaschesen) this past off-season — are banking on offensive production from Nemis.

“We felt there was a real good chance that it would translate,” Clouston said. “He was a point-a-game in the Manitoba league. He made the move – what we would consider up – to the B.C. Hockey League and again was able to pretty much hit close to point a game in that league. We think he’s ready to take another step.”

Nemis is aiming to make the most of his one season in the major junior ranks.

“I’d like to get an [NCAA] Division One scholarship somewhere in the States and then, hopefully, go play professionally overseas or in North America,” Nemis said. “I take pride in the D-zone. I play a complete game. I like battling in the corners and just working hard, setting up my teammates and going to the dirty areas where not many people like to go.”