The next season, Gilchrist made his mark as a rookie in the WHL with the Kelowna Wings. In 1985, after a third losing season in a row, the team relocated to Spokane, Washington, and changed its name to the Chiefs. Gilchrist quickly became a star in the WHL and tallied 141 goals and 290 points in just 218 games played. Gilchrist was selected 79th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 1985 NHL entry draft.