The CEBL changed its draft format for 2026. There was a decision to go in a different direction that went away from what had been implemented previously. Instead of moving towards a traditional format, the league decided they wanted to do what is now called “Signing Day.” This introduces a specific day during the offseason, in which each of the ten teams have to announce two U Sports or CCAA players they want to sign for the upcoming year.

After the players were announced on April 8th, I want to go through the selections and pick five players who I believe have a chance to make an impact for their organizations this summer.

Aaron Rhooms

The most obvious selection on this list is Aaron Rhooms. He got into 19 games last summer, averaging four and a half points and two rebounds. He did shoot 45% from three on two attempts per game. Rhooms was mainly used as a sharpshooter off the bench in limited time. I do believe after a U Sports Player of the Year season at TMU should see him get an elevated role returning to the Edmonton Stingers.

DJ Jackson

Another player who has CEBL experience, DJ Jackson will have an opportunity to find playing time this season with the Brampton Honey Badgers. He spends last season with the Calgary Surge, where he did not see the floor very much. In the final regular season game of 2025, he put up 15 points, two rebounds, two assists, and three steals, showing some good potential. He led the entire country in scoring and secured another AUS conference MVP. Jackson is another candidate to be a contributing rotational piece this summer.

Mason Kraus

While he did not get too much experience last summer, Mason Kraus does have impactful minutes in the league. In the three games he appeared in, he did not record many stats. But Kraus did show that he belonged. His assignment in the games he played in was to guard the other team’s best player, which he did quite well. I do wonder if he does get some run off the bench this summer, where I think he could shine.

Easton Thimm

One of my sleeper picks to have an impact this summer is Easton Thimm. He made only one appearance last summer for the Saskatchewan Rattlers (now Saskatoon Mamba), which is why I would say this season is his first true opportunity. He is a traditional big man who does his damage on the inside. He shoots at a high percentage, rebounds very well, and even gets a fair few steals as well. We’ve seen so many players with his size and skillset succeed in the league, it’s going to be hard for me not to think he does the same.

Yohann Sam

The final player that I believe could make an impact for a CEBL club this year is Yohann Sam. After looking at his options in the NCAA D1 transfer portal, Sam did play a few games for the Brampton Honey Badgers last summer. This season with the Ottawa BlackJacks, he will look to crack their rotation. It was a bit of a down year for him, as he saw decreases in most categories, but I do feel he can use this summer to start his bounce back. There were still many flashes from Sam that make you believe he can be a contributor in the league.

The season begins May 9th when the Winnipeg Sea Bears take on the Edmonton Stingers.