Head coaches from the four Memorial Cup teams rejected the favorite label during a press conference on Thursday in Kelowna, British Columbia.
The Canadian Hockey League championship brings together the Everett Silvertips, Kitchener Rangers, Chicoutimi Saguenéens, and host Kelowna Rockets.
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Everett Silvertips coach Steve Hamilton dismissed the idea that his team holds an advantage, noting that a WHL team has not won the Memorial Cup in 12 years.
"I find it hard to believe that we'd be considered the favourites, to be honest," Hamilton said.
He questioned national rankings since teams from different leagues do not face each other during the regular season.
"I don't know how those rankings are generated when you don't see other teams from other leagues," Hamilton added.
Hamilton emphasized that every roster features high-caliber players, creating slim margins between teams.
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Kitchener Rangers coach Jussi Ahokas also deflected favorite status despite acquiring tournament veterans Sam O'Reilly and Jared Woolley, who won last year with London.
"I wouldn't say we're the favourites. There's not really a favourite in this tournament," Ahokas said.
Ahokas acknowledged the value of O'Reilly and Woolley, calling their addition a big factor for the team.
Hamilton praised his own roster, highlighting defenseman Landon DuPont, projected as the top prospect for the 2027 NHL draft.
"We probably don't get here without a defencemen of that quality," Hamilton said.
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DuPont, who turns 17 during the event, shows exceptional work ethic on and off the ice, according to Hamilton.
