The Penticton Vees are that much closer to etching themselves in the major junior hockey record books.
Penticton (33-11-4-3), which was awarded an expansion franchise ahead of the 2025-2026 season, is two wins away from tying the 2003-2004 Everett Silvertips for most victories in a WHL franchise’s first season (35).
If the Vees hit 37 wins, they’ll tie the 1982-1983 Longueuil Chevaliers of the QMJHL for most wins in a Canadian Hockey League franchise’s first season.
Everett and Longueuil — coached by future Stanley Cup champion Jacques Lemaire — both made the finals in their respective leagues in Year 1.
Penticton, led by head coach and general manager Fred Harbinson, has 17 games remaining in its inaugural WHL regular season.
Its first-year success was highlighted by a recent 14-game winning streak that spanned from Dec. 17 to Jan. 30.
The Vees, who have won 18 out of their last 20 games, sit second in the Western Conference, 12 points back of the red-hot Silvertips.
The top eight teams in each conference make the playoffs.
Penticton also finds itself atop the B.C. Division, 11 points up on the second-place Prince George Cougars.
Leading the club offensively is New York Islanders seventh-rounder Jacob Kvasnicka, who has 67 points in 49 games and sits second in WHL rookie scoring.
Kvasnicka and the Vees are back on the ice Friday, Feb. 13, when they visit the Vancouver Giants in Langley.
The Vees’ extended road trip in the Canadian prairies from Feb. 20 to 28 will include a showdown with the Eastern Conference-leading Prince Albert Raiders.
Prince Albert is the only team in the WHL to clinch a playoff berth, as of Feb. 10.
READ MORE: Penticton Vees blank Tri-City Americans, secure 18th win in last 20 games