Panthers add NHL-drafted forward Sebastian Bradshaw

The UPEI Panthers have added a former NHL draft pick to their forward group, landing power forward Sebastian Bradshaw for the 2026-27 season.

Bradshaw, a 21-year-old from Newtonville, Ontario, joins the Panthers after three seasons in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), where he suited up for the Coquitlam Express, Langley Rivermen, and most recently the Vernon Vipers.

Bradshaw’s junior career reached a major milestone in 2023, when he was selected by the Dallas Stars in the seventh round of the NHL Entry Draft.

He went on to spend the next three seasons in the BCHL with the Coquitlam Express, Langley Rivermen and Vernon Vipers, appearing in 130 games and recording 19 goals and 28 assists.

At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, Bradshaw brings a blend of size, skating, and playmaking ability to the wing. He uses his frame effectively, competes hard at both ends of the ice, and can create opportunities for teammates.

“I would describe my playing style as a two-way, hardworking power forward who can also be a playmaker,” Bradshaw said.

Bradshaw said UPEI’s track record of helping players develop beyond the university level played a major role in his decision to join the Panthers.

“I joined UPEI because of the reputation of players coming out of the program and moving on to higher levels after graduation,” he said. “I also heard from former players how much they enjoyed their experience there and the staff they worked with."

Forbes MacPherson, head coach of the men’s hockey team, said Bradshaw’s combination of size, skating and skill gives the Panthers a different look up front.

“Sebastian adds elements to our lineup that we were missing last year,” MacPherson said. “Sebastian has battled injuries recently, and we feel that when healthy and after transitioning to our league, he can be an impact player. We’re excited about his ceiling and what he can add to our lineup.”