With the 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League season starting up tomorrow, it is time to look at some of the biggest headlines for each team in the Western Conference this summer. This is the second part to Wednesday’s piece that talked about the Eastern Conference, check that out if you haven’t already. As a quick reminder, we all know that the landscape in the league can change overnight, which means that these takes are based on most players sticking it out for the entire season. With that being said, let’s get into what each team’s top talking point is to begin the year.

Looking For Revenge

The biggest scandal in league history left the Vancouver Bandits on the wrong end of a playoff officiating decision. A loss to eventual championship runner-up Calgary stung pretty hard for what was the best team a season ago. This year will be fuelled by revenge, and with the way the roster is looking, it could be on the table. Tyrese Samuel returns, having been one of the best five players in the CEBL last summer. The additions of Mychal Mulder and Tevian Jones could be the extra bit of scoring they need to get over the top. With what could be the most competitive conference in the last few seasons, do they have what it takes?

New Name, New Direction

There was much activity off the floor in the CEBL before Free Agency even begun, and one of those things was the full rebrand and ownership change with the Saskatoon Mamba. An inaugural franchise that has in recent years been a laughing stock within the community, looks to turnover a new leaf. For this upcoming summer, they have brought in some very intriguing import players. Tavian Dunn-Martin, Jaylin Williams, and Trey Townsend should be a fun offensive nucleus that could win them a few games. The question becomes, is their depth good enough to compete in what is a loaded West.

Does Change Bring Improvement?

After a failed Championship Weekend on the court for the Winnipeg Sea Bears, many fans were calling for Mike Taylor to be fired. Management seemed to listen and fans got what they wanted. Mike Raimbault now gets to run the show and has so far through the roster building process impressed. Bringing in Xavier Moon and having Teddy Allen return were huge moves to prove he is trying to start off his tenure with a bang. The supporting cast also seems quite formidable, arguably one of the best in the league. Is this finally the season where Winnipeg wins a playoff game?

A Step Taken Back

There was much outrage during the Free Agency period from Edmonton Stingers fans as they saw some of their favourite players find new homes for 2026. Sean East II, Keon-Ambrose-Hylton, Xavier Moon, and Davion Warren to name a few. The most impactful player returning is ever-present Nick Hornsby. One bright spot is the young core that’s been built up, which includes Aaron Rhooms and Taye Donald. This roster does not inspire much confidence in its current form, but coach Jordan Baker has a knack for getting more out of his players than you’d expect. This year will certainly be a step back for an always competitive Stingers organization.

Do They Make Another Run?

Having made two championship games, and a conference finals appearance, the Calgary Surge are hoping they can find a way to finish the job. Face of the team Sean Miller-Moore returns, along with flamethrower Evan Gilyard II. In its current form, other than Jon Elmore, this roster does not seem to be anywhere near as strong as 2025. Javonte Brown is an intriguing big man that could be in for a breakout summer. Unless they can find a few extra pieces to build up depth, this might be the weakest roster that’s set out on the floor since the Surge have moved to Calgary.

The CEBL season begins on May 9th, when the Winnipeg Sea Bears head to Edmonton, taking on the Stingers.