Ranking The Top 100 NHL Prospects
We're starting this year off with a bang, breaking down my Top 100 prospects in the first of 3 articles in our Prospect Grade series.
I’ve always thought prospect grading was one of the hardest tasks journalists undergo every summer. To organize upwards of 500 prospects is grueling work, and I give my biggest props to the likes of Steven Ellis and Scott Wheeler - solo writers who have made that undertaking a part of their yearly routine. But, I often disagree with the final products (of more than just that pair) - so this summer, I’m taking it on myself. I’ve graded over 400 prospects to help build out analysis on all 32 prospect pools.
Today, we’ll start to dive into that analysis with a big splash - ranking and breaking down my top 100 NHL prospects. We’ll cover my top goalies and full prospect pool rankings soon - so don’t forget to subscribe to have them emailed!
Before we jump in, this is as apt a time as any to mention that rankings are far from the foolproof tool they’re often presented as. Who’s better between the all-skill winger, shutdown defender, or playmaking center is largely subjective and team-by-team, so while I’m comfortable with where these ranks landed, it’s important to note that they’re absolutely fluid. I hope to respect that flux a bit more in my full prospect rankings, but for now - let’s break down the individual stars.
As always, you can find an organized table of these rankings at the bottom of the piece. You ready to jump in? Lets start off…
*-disclaimer, this article exceeds the email limit. View it on Substack to read about all 100 names and see the full table rankings!
1. Matvei Michkov (RW), Philadelphia Flyers, Draft: 2023-1:7
I’d love to bestow #1 to one of my American-made prospects, but nobody on this list carries the experience that Michkov does. Not only is he a star prospect, but he’s already shown he can sustain elite scoring in one of the most dismal settings in any of the top pro leagues. He’s a special, confident, and ballsy player - set for a much better offense in Philadelphia. As much as I want to temper my expectations, his point-per-game KHL scoring is hard to deny, and I’d be shocked if Michkov wasn’t an NHL star this season.
2. Macklin Celebrini (C), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2024-1:1
More a 1B than anything is Celebrini, whose leadership and personality traits alone are strong enough to put him atop this list. A lot of Toews/Crosby comparisons have been tossed around, and while I think they may not be perfect playing style parallels, all three do share a je ne sais quois leadership quality that makes them special. They’re the types of players you can build a franchise around. I fully expect Celebrini to hit the ground running on the scoresheet - y’know, plays to match any tempo, thinks three steps ahead, nifty hand-eye, so on - but I’m much more excited to see how he takes to succeeding his new billet dad, Joe Thornton.
3. Logan Stankoven (LW/RW), Dallas Stars, Draft: 2021-2:47
If we’re ranking for the likeliest NHL impact, Stankoven has to be high up. He was incredible in the NHL last year - not only scoring a strong 14 points in 24 regular season games but also emerging as a legitimate pillar capable of leaning on in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Dallas won periods because Stankoven was playing with the diligence of an eight-year pro. It was pinch me, I’m dreaming stuff for Stars GM Jim Nill - especially when you remember that Stankoven is still just 21 and was playing juniors two seasons ago. Crazy stuff. There are probably many players below him on this list that will score more, or win more, but Stankoven seems among the most poised for a long and fruitful NHL career.
4. Alexander Nikishin (LHD), Carolina Hurricanes, Draft: 2020-3:69
Nikishin fades in and out of prospect hype, but his game hasn’t stopped improving. In his three seasons since being drafted, Nikishin has earned a KHL role, worked onto his team’s top-four, and emerged as a legitimate star KHL defenseman. It’s been one strong, confident step forward every season for Nikishin, and with how well he’s taken each stride - I have to think the transition to the NHL will prove seamless. If it does, Carolina is landing a gritty, tireless defender capable of doing it all.
5. Ivan Demidov (RW/C), Montreal Canadiens, Draft: 2024-1:5
I get the same feeling watching Demidov play that I get when I watch the legendary Russians… Datsyuk, Bure, Larionov- the guys that are just small and quick enough to beat you in a race, but also just beefy enough to absorb hits, and just talented enough to dance around your whole team. Am I saying that Demidov will reach the heights of those legends? No. But I am saying that it’s a tragic disservice that his only main stage has been the MHL to this point. His on-puck talent is right up there with the stars of this list, but until he gets some sort of real taste of competition, we won’t have that proven. Hopefully, he comes over soon.
6. Cutter Gauthier (C), Anaheim Ducks, Draft: 2022-1:5
Gauthier stirred up plenty before even making his NHL debut, but the mix-up ultimately landed him in a golden spot. Pat Verbeek couldn’t dream of a better player than Gauthier’s bruising, heavy-drive, high-skill style. I’m not sure if he’d be as strong of a #1 as some of the names below him, but he’s checked every box needed to step into Ryan Getzlaf’s shoes as the requisite high-scoring, power forward in Anaheim. Something, something, Mighty Ducks - y’know?
7. Konsta Helenius (C/RW/LW), Buffalo Sabres, Draft: 2024-1:14
I wish I was surprised that Helenius fell in the ‘24 Draft… but, I’m not. Of course, the average-sized, European center got overlooked for hefty defenders. But man, Helenius can play. He’s as quick as they come and turns on a dime, pairing with seriously elite IQ and awareness to make Helenius effective in any spot. He can drive offense, he can finish scoring chances, he can get in opponents’ face on defense, and he can play special teams. Better than all of that, Helenius passionately wants to be an NHL star… the best Finn ever, to be exact. That’s the motivation I want my prospects to have. We know Helenius will stick around North America this season, but I’ll go as far as predicting he works into an NHL role before the year ends, taking the first step towards becoming the desperately needed glue-guy in Buffalo’s top-six.
8. Zeev Buium (LHD), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2024-1:12
Buium was the actual surprise-faller of 2024 - somehow going outside the Top 10, despite emerging as the clear #1 of a National Championship-winning blue line that also featured Shai Buium and Sean Behrens (two other features on this list). It’s his puckhandling that earned Buium the impressive standing. He’s shown strong north-south drive for ye23ars, but it was his added ability to utilize time and space in the offensive zone that made 2023-24 special. He excelled at walking the blue-line and staying patient with plays, making him not only a near-point-per-game scorer, but also an incredible asset when Denver needed a play. I’m not sure if NHL teams are scared by his slight(-er) frame, or maybe how often he’s on the puck, but Buium has all of the tools needed to be the next star defender out of the NTDP.
9. Denton Mateychuk (LHD), Columbus Blue Jackets, Draft: 2022-1:12
To be a true #1 defenseman for a team requires more than talent. Teams start and end with their top defender, and Mateychuk is a great example of the more subjective traits needed to really embrace that role. Yes, he can score; yes, he can drive play; yes, he can play defense - but more than that, you know when Mateychuk is on the ice. He makes his presence felt every single shift, and knows how to lift up the linemates in front of him. His skill set might not be as overwhelmingly gifted as his peers in this Top 10, but how well he takes on the role of lineup leader has me thinking he has a long career ahead.
10. Will Smith (C), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2023-1:4
The hockey world is in for a treat this season, because for the first time in three years - we finally get to see Will Smith detached from longtime wingers Gabe Perreault and Ryan Leonard. The trio spent nearly every minute together at the NTDP and Boston College, and while that’s led to rare and exciting chemistry - it’s also limited the creativity we’ve seen out of Smith. He’s among the most confident puck handlers in the hockey world, and will inevitably have to need a new style to go with his new setting. I think that change will come with yet another big step, giving the Sharks two of the league’s absolute best prospects.
11. Tij Iginla (LW), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2024-1:6
Tij Iginla is really hard to ignore. He’s as high-energy as you can be on the ice, and capable of working through tight space to make plays in all three layers of the offensive zone. Iginla is just as good in open space - absolutely lethal when he gets the puck in the slot and not backing down to incoming pressure. You can tell that Tij was raised by a Hall Of Fame father. He’s as smart of a hockey mind as you can ask for at 18 - and it shows in every decision he makes. That special ability makes it hard to think Tij isn’t set for a long, evergreen career of his own - especially in a Utah org looking for a leader.
12. Cayden Lindstrom (C), Columbus Blue Jackets, Draft: 2024-1:4
We get another bid from 2024 with Cayden Lindstrom, who’s maxed out the sliders on puck skills, fluid skating, and pro size. He doesn’t get knocked around and is always in the right spot, giving him the footing needed to make an impact in all three zones, if for no other reason than his size. Unlike many of his peers near the top of this list, Lindstrom is still developing his ability to independently drive play - but he showed tons of growth before injury last year. I’ve been told (repeatedly) to not let those injuries dissuade me from his hype train - and if I look past them, it’s hard to deny Lindstrom’s ability to make plays work using superior size and puck-skills. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Lindstrom’s mindset too - he’s as poised and driven as they come, and is already showing the on-and-off-ice adaptability needed to grow into a star.
13. Shane Wright (C), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2022-1:4
Any position after 2021’s #1st-overall spot was going to be a disappointment for Wright, but falling outside of the top five and spending the bulk of the subsequent two seasons in the minor leagues has really quelled the hype around this kid. But he’s quietly developed into an incredibly reliable centerman, capable of commanding a line and filling roles in all three zones. It’s the poised, two-way mindset you want out of any core centerman, and Wright gets a boost with his growing confidence in taking aggressive chances. He’s learned how to match, and thus overcome, pro pace - traits that’ll make it easy for him to carve out a routine lineup role, when Seattle finally gives him a hardy top-six chance.
14. Matthew Wood (LW/C), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2023-1:15
Speaking of forgotten prospects, I don’t think the hockey world has taken the time to appreciate Matthew Wood. He checks every single box - boasting smooth skating, hefty size, and one of the deadliest shots of his age group. That’s all fine and dandy - we’ve seen a lot of players with all of the tools that still need to grow into their own. But man, Wood has never not succeeded. He dominated the AJHL, and is now dominating college, leading his school in scoring in both of his undergrad years. That’s a feat to awe at for a player drafted at the butt-end of the Top 15 - and Wood is carrying that momentum into a bigger-and-better role with UMN next season. He’ll be the shooter to match Jimmy Snuggerud’s hard-nosed forechecking and Oliver Moore’s high-speed playmaking. Seems like a perfect tandem to me, so I’m taking as much of the ‘over’ as I can with Wood.
15. Trevor Connelly (LW), Vegas Golden Knights, Draft: 2024-1:19
At this point, I’m taking every opportunity I can to pump up Trevor Connelly. He’s one of the best players I’ve ever seen come through the non-NTDP USHL, capable of outskating, out-stickhandling, and outthinking all of his opponents. Connelly spent half of the dang USHL season last year skating in circles around the offensive zone, showing fantastic puck control and discipline while waiting for plays to open up. The players capable of that seem to always turn out special - especially when they have a drive and work ethic like Connelly’s. He has a lot of inconsistencies to iron out, but I think his strengths are already at-or-above a pro level. If I have my way, he won’t be in college for long - though I can’t argue that taking a pit stop to learn from Nate Leaman isn’t a great way to spend the interim.
16. Lane Hutson (LHD), Montreal Canadiens, Draft: 2022-2:62
This one’s a bit surreal to write. I first watched Hutson a decade ago at Barrington Ice Arena - and you could see he was special then. For all of the same reasons, Hutson dominated his Pee-Wee peers with the puck on a rope, making quick cuts and moving creatively around all three zones. His size hasn’t come far since then, but his puck skills have grown exponentially - and now Hutson is embarrassing NHL defensemen with the same brazen confidence. It’s hilarious, and he should only grow more as he starts taking more hits at the NHL level. I have no reason to think Hutson isn’t going to continue growing. I don’t know if he’ll ever have the size or all-three-zones ability to stand as a true #1 defender - and thus may need the support of someone like Matheson or Reinbacher - but his puckhandling, skating, and offensive instinct are strong enough to sustain top-level scoring.
17. Berkly Catton (C), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2024-1:8
Skill, skill, skill. Just like that, we’ve summed up Berkly Catton’s game. He’s a magician on the puck, able to cut through opposing defenders like they’re not even there. That led to an incredible amount of odd-man-rushes and breakaways last season - and Catton took advantage of every single one, en route to a 116-point draft year. That’s incredible, and as bullish I want to be about his size or lack of explosive skating, I’m not going to be the one to turn my nose up to a burgeoning star. If Catton is as good as they say he is, then he’s on the path to certain stardom. But the question will be - is his skill enough to outweigh his size?
18. Zayne Parekh (RHD), Calgary Flames, Draft: 2024-1:9
Skill, skill, skill - there, we’ve described Parekh too! He’s just as dazzling on the puck, and shows a similar ease to Catton as he cuts through the neutral zone. The routes Parekh takes to the net are impressive. He pushes the boundaries of his position well, and is especially dangerous when he dips below the tops of the circles. Now, did much of that aggression get met with lazy turnovers and lazier backchecking last year? Yes, I suppose so. But the offensive upside and raw talent here is hard to deny. Like with Catton, if Parekh is as good and driven as they say he is, he’ll be headed for the role of skillful and high-scoring #1.
19. Ryan Leonard (LW/C), Washington Capitals, Draft: 2023-1:8
Will Smith asserts himself as the focal point of any line he’s on, but Ryan Leonard butted into the spotlight more than a few times, largely thanks to the amount of power he carries when driving down the ice. Leonard is a beefy kid, and shows every ounce of his 200-pound frame when he’s on the puck and plowing through opponents. His ability to fight for space is matched with a stellar shot, making Leonard another high-scoring, spot-shooter with a boost of puck-carrying ability. He’s not quite as mature as Wood - who I thought would consider the NHL more this year - but Leonard absolutely has the ability to match his role at the top level.
20. Seamus Casey (RHD), New Jersey Devils, Draft: 2022-2:46
Casey hasn’t had much time to himself over the years, receiving the brunt of playing on teams with Luke Hughes and Lane Hutson. It wasn’t until this season that we got to see Casey in a true #1 role - and he thrived with the chance, single-handedly bringing the patented overwhelming pace to Michigan’s forecheck. He’s fast and sharp, hanging onto top-end scanning and puck control at top speeds. But I’ve found myself routinely wanting more backcheck, in-your-face defense, and lateral play out of Casey. There’s also the rather bleak fact that New Jersey doesn’t have space to propel Casey into the 20+ minutes a night his value will earn one day - not with Dougie Hamilton and Simon Nemec already taking space on the right-side. But Casey’s ability to beat his opponents with speed and skill is blatant, and he knows how to take creative approaches to making plays work. Those are traits that could sustain a top role with the right development… if he can find a way into one.
21. Brad Lambert (C/RW), Winnipeg Jets, Draft: 2022-1:30
Five years ago, the debate was Shane Wright or Brad Lambert. That dichotomy has come to a complete hush in the years since, even as the duo exchange blows as pressing AHL stars. For Lambert’s part, he’s developed into an electric presence on the wings. His speed down the boards is overwhelming, and he’s significantly improved his ability to carry his elite handles and passing into those top speeds. That’s made him a blink-and-he’ll-beat-ya scorer in the minors. He’s worked out of the Liiga’s patented reserve in favor of high-speed, high-IQ hockey - and now faces the challenge of folding both approaches into his game. Luckily, Winnipeg’s developed very similar players in Scheifele, Connor, and Ehlers - so count me in on the ones buying Lambert “low”.
22. Dalibor Dvorsky (C/RW), St. Louis Blues, Draft: 2023-1:10
Moving to the CHL directly out of Central EU pros is usually a death sentence for prospects. But Dvorsky embraced the stepdown in talent for what it was, and proceeded to demolish the OHL this year. He scored 45 goals in 52 games, excelling at creating time and space off of the boards but then wasting no time with quick shots or hard drives into the slot. Dvorsky excelled even when his linemates weren’t moving at the same pace, willing his way onto the puck and down the ice. Dvorsky has been a star prospect for a long time, but how quickly he took to a starring role in the CHL last season speaks volumes. He has the skill, he has the size, and now he has the winds behind his sails. I wouldn’t be shocked if Dvorsky played in the NHL before the year ends - though even if he doesn’t, I’m still plenty confident that he’s well on his way to being a solid, everyday lineup piece for a long time.
23. Brandt Clarke (RHD), Los Angeles Kings, Draft: 2021-1:8
Clarke has been a top prospect for a while, but he really seemed to will his way to relevancy this season, clawing his way into a top spot on an Ontario Reign team that needed someone to step up. He put 110% into every single shift, and every single zone - looking substantially improved at going for the right play, rather than the flashy play. The game is that much faster at the NHL level, and Clarke’s pace and ability to think two steps ahead will both need honing if he wants a major role. But he showed the will to overcome any deficits this year, while still scoring at a top level. He has the upside of a serious #1-defender, even if he may need to work a bit harder than others to get there.
24. Aatu Raty (C), Vancouver Canucks, Draft: 2021-2:52
The hockey world has slowly started underappreciating Raty, if you ask me. This is a kid that was once considered a Top 10 pick in 2021 - now reduced to being routinely ranked outside of Vancouver’s top three prospects by multiple outlets. It surprises me, because Raty’s first order of business after being drafted was to iron out the specific concerns that dropped him in the draft. He added the drive in transition and lateral work in the OZ that was missing - forming him from a shoot-first, second-man-in to a center really capable of driving a line up the ice. We saw the fruits of that labor last year, where he became the most NHL-looking centerman in Abbotsford by my bill. Raty still needs to develop his traits into top-end skills, worthy of an NHL role - but he has the size and shot to be a dangerous player, once it all comes together.
25. Michael Hage (C), Montreal Canadiens, Draft: 2024-1:21
Few juniors careers need to be as resilient as Michael Hage’s was. He persisted through multiple injuries, awful personal loss, and a near full-turnover of his team’s staff all in the span of just two years. And yet, he still emerged as a star in the USHL. Since the calendar turned over to 2024 - the gameplay farthest away from Hage’s series of unfortunate events - he has scored 52 points in 30 games, achieving them largely independently. He can do it all - beating opponents with bursts of speed; a laser-accurate shot; or great patience, puck-control, and playmaking. We haven’t gotten a chance to see Hage use each of those takeover abilities to full effect just yet, but in hanging around a rink with him, you can see that this stardom isn’t a flash in the pan. He’s set for a big role with Michigan next year, and I imagine it’ll let him outperform his draft slot very quickly.
26. Sam Dickinson (LHD), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2024-1:11
Dickinson is your quintessential NHL defense prospect. He’s beefy with fluid, powerful skating; a booming shot and pass; and true 200-foot ability - not in the sense of a two-way game, but rooted in a true understanding of how to start play behind his own net and end it with the puck in the other net. He knows how to serve as the engine behind a line, and fills the space of any role he’s given. There are definitely times where Dickinson’s lack of in-tight agility leads to goofy mistakes, but he’s quick to follow them with a big hit or clapper that goes through the net - something to quickly grab the energy back for his side. It’s hard to think of a world where Dickinson doesn’t emerge as a top-pair defender, though I’m not sure he’ll be the most exciting of the players capable of that on this list.
27. Quentin Musty (LW), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2023-1:26
Another powerful player, Musty jumps up this list with just how ready for the pros he looks. He plays with a ton of power and always has a plan in mind, getting to his spots quickly and excelling at controlling the puck under pressure. He’s another player with an impressively heavy shot, but also boasts the awareness to dominate the slot or corners, making him a multitool in the offensive zone and on special teams. Musty benefited from some great teammates in Sudbury - but I take his ability to gel so well with top-end linemates as a positive, and an indication that he should be right at home in a Sharks top-six with plenty of complimentary talent.
28. Ville Koivunen (LW/C), Pittsburgh Penguins, Draft: 2021-2:51
I really liked the Jake Guentzel trade for Pittsburgh. They landed multiple prospects that seem set on filling an NHL role one day, with Koivunen chief among them. He is an incredibly exciting, shoot-first winger who’s come a long way in his ability to play through pro pressure. Koivunen has significantly improved his ability to fight for space on and off of the puck, giving much more credence to his role as an independent play-driver. He needed to build a quicker mind in Finland - and he has - but now he’ll need to build quicker tendencies in North America. If he does it, Koviunen feels like a strong candidate for a long and fruitful top-six role - but he’s not a slam dunk prospect until we’ve seen more on American ice.
29. Frank Nazar (C), Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2022-1:13
I was worried that Frank Nazar III would have a rough time bouncing back from the injury that cut down his freshman year. It was a hip injury that required surgery, and I had heard that rehabbing proved to be a frustrating process. So imagine my surprise when he came back without missing a single step. If anything, Nazar looked like he already had the experience of a seasoned collegiate athlete, despite just 13 games to his name before this year. But he was an impressive pest - using strong, fast skating and creative paths to the puck to hound opponents in all three zones and confident handles to quickly turn play in Michigan’s favor. He got some help from star linemates Gavin Brindley and Rutger McGroarty - but regardless, Nazar showed a nagging presence and high-end offense that scream NHL upside. He’s going to be in for a challenge in adapting to NHL size and physicality, but Nazar has shown how adaptable his skill can be - and he should be helped along in Chicago by superstar Connor Bedard drawing the bulk of attention.
30. Conor Geekie (C), Tampa Bay Lightning, Draft: 2022-1:11
Geekie is an excitingly flashy prospect, bringing nifty handles, a booming shot, and head-down drive to every shift. But he struggled to pull everything together in his draft year. For all of his successes, it seemed his motor was never running on full. That’s changed in the years since, with Geekie emerging as the clear-cut star of his juniors teams on the back of a well-paced and high-stamina drive down the ice. I trust him to be the one handling the puck much more than I did in the past - and all of his traits seem built to translate to the pro level. Geekie has struggled with being a step behind in the past, so don’t get too excited until we’ve seen pro games - but he’s uniquely talented enough to develop into an exciting scorer.
31. Carter Yakemchuk (RHD), Ottawa Senators, Draft: 2024-1:7
Carter Yakemchuk is a ton of fun. Few players play with such a sharp edge nowadays - and he pairs that physical knack with fantastic puckhandling and an exciting, aggressive drive down the ice. He’s a defender who can Kronwall an opponent on one end, quickly explode into transition, and make a move to beat goaltenders for a goal on the other end. Now, like many players in his style - Yakemchuk does struggle with when, where, and how his aggression shows up. He’ll need to become much more poised as he moves to the top level - but his physicality, puck-skills, and endurance all lend themselves to a future top-pair role.
32. Nate Danielson (C), Detroit Red Wings, Draft: 2023-1:9
Nate Danielson sits a bit higher on this list than his stat-line may suggest - but it’s hard to ignore the impact he brings to every shift. Danielson is capable of filling all of the responsibilities of an effective, top-six, two-way centerman. He keeps his mind on offense, driving the puck downhill and making plays from any point in the offensive end. He can pass, he can shoot, he can beat out opponents one-on-one off and on the puck. It’s an impressive, well-rounded toolkit that actually boasts the top-end skills to translate to the pro levels. I don’t know if Danielson is guaranteed to score more than those below him, but I do know he’s set for an important, all-three-zones when he breaks into the pro scene.
33. Mavrik Bourque (C/LW), Dallas Stars, Draft: 2020-1:30
Wow - what is there to even say about Mavrik Bourque? The AHL’s reigning leading scorer and MVP, Bourque formed one of the most dominant duos in hockey with Logan Stankoven last season… and then somehow found another gear after Stankoven’s call-up. I’m still floored by how much responsibility Bourque held last year - excelling on the faceoff dot and making hard-nosed plays on defense, on top of his premier scoring. With such a stark breakout year coming so quickly into his pro career, I struggle to place Bourque’s ceiling. The sky really is the limit, though I imagine he’ll settle in as an explosive middle-six option on a loaded Dallas depth chart. His scoring upside will be incredible when he’s reunited with Stankoven.
34. Danila Yurov (RW/C), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2022-1:24
Danila Yurov is another player whose hype has been stifled by his menial role in Russia. But there’s a serious lot to be excited about here. Yurov is as skillful and smooth as they come, capable of taking advantage of even the smallest openings. He knows how to use elusive stickhandling to break the puck into the offensive end, then put his head down and drive through opponents to crash the net and cause chaos. Yurov has done a lot to hone his ability to drive a line over the past couple of seasons, and I anticipate he’ll be impressively fast and quick-thinking when he finally comes over to Minnesota.
35. David Jiricek (RHD), Columbus Blue Jackets, Draft: 2022-1:6
Probably among the most controversial rankings on this list is David Jiricek, who - yes - was the victim of laughable deployment last season. And while I’m beyond confident that a stronger role will give him significantly more chance to show his takeover ability on the puck, his off-puck game at the pro level has certainly left something to be desired. He needs to stay locked-in in all situations, and as it stands - I don’t see that. But make no mistake, even without the all-three-zones ability, Jiricek’s puck skills and offensive instinct will be enough to build a very productive defender, even if he isn’t Columbus’ #1.
36. Liam Ohgren (LW), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2022-1:19
I love the heft in Ohgren’s game. He’s strong and fearless on and off of the puck, skating with his chest up and shoulders square, making him a steamroller driving down the ice. He sees lanes quickly and knows how to use a fantastic shooting ability or quick lateral cut to exploit defenders and open spots in the net. Ohgren isn’t going to fill any-and-every role for ya, but he’s going to do what he does - re, filling the role of a heavy-set sniper - really, really well. He may need to become a bit more dnamic to find success in the NHL, though even that projection could be underselling just how well his on-puck drive is. Either way, he’s headed for Minnesota’s top-six very soon… and could find some impressive goal totals soon after that.
37. Dmitri Simashev (LHD), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2023-1:6
I struggle to rank many of the Russian defenders. Outside of Nikishin, no Russian seems like a sure thing. But Simashev is the most well-rounded of the hopefuls, boasting a fluid and powerful skillset in every regard - skating, passing, defending, attacking. He can handle it all, while showing a strong respect for his positioning and how/when he can flex it. Simashev doesn’t waste opportunity, and I respect his responsibility on the puck. That diligence could work him into a #1 role in due time, though I think a few different things will have to *click* to really land him in that smash spot.
38. Jiri Kulich (C), Buffalo Sabres, Draft: 2022-1:28
There is a lot of excitement for Jiri Kulich in Buffalo. To the point that I can’t talk with that org without hearing about him. He’s a workhorse in the truest sense of the term, and as soon as the Sabres found that out, they put him on a tailored development plan that arriving before and leaving after everyone else. Kulich has since grown bigger, faster, stronger - and more important than any of that, mature in his approach to the day-to-day. The Sabres think they have gold here, and are working to build a player capable of a long NHL career. Given how well his size and power-forward style have translated to North America, I say he does it. Lineup competition and typecasting will likely limit the star role Kulich receives, but he’s one of the few players on this list who seem like sure bets for a 1,000-game career with a letter on his chest.
39. Jagger Firkus (RW), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2022-2:35
Firkus is as skilled as any of his peers and capable of filling roles from goal line ot goal line - but it’s his energy that really makes him exciting. Few players play with such a tireless motor, and you can see Firkus wearing down his opponents as the game goes on. That’s complimented by a grit and physical edge that I don’ think gets nearly enough attention. But Firkus is hard-nosed and drives down-hill, capable of beating opponents with power or skill. He’s much more well-rounded than his peers on this list - which can sometimes be a sign of lacking takeover ability - but so long as Firkus’ motor translates to the pro scenes, his skill and lineup impact will follow.
40. Rutger McGroarty (C/LW), Pittsburgh Penguins, Draft: 2022-1:14
Everyone’s favorite Penguins prospect - obviously, Rutger McGroarty - is all about shooting the puck. McGroarty has been a star for years, and knows how to control possession, fight for space in the offensive end, and unleash increidbly quick snipes as soon as the goalie opens space. He’s not as cerebral or fast as some, but makes up for it with responsible puckhandling and an ability to orchestrate play entering or set up in the offensive end. He projects as a scorer first-and-foremost, and while I have my questions about where his ceiling sits with that projection, there’s no doubting that McGroarty’s ability to beat goalies and control play will lead to a prominent NHL role.
41. Ryan Ufko (RHD), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2021-4:115
Of the many underrated names on this list, it’s Ryan Ufko that stands as the most unknown star across the prospect world. He was the backbone of UMass’ lineup over the last three years, serving as a true leader-by-example from the blue-line. He’s diligent in all three zones, taking creative approaches to cutting off opponents and only improving his ability on the puck. Ufko commands play when he’s on the ice, and seamlessly carried that control into the pro level at the end of the year. I have a good feeling his smart, aware style will make a jump to the NHL just as seamless. While Ufko may not have the clear-cut upside as those above him, I struggle to see a world where he’s not a longtime contributor to the NHL lineup.
42. Josh Doan (RW/C), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2021-2:37
Josh Doan is gnarly. I love this kid, and the edge that he brings to his all-three-zones ability. Like Tij Ignla, it’s impossible to ignore that Doan was raised by an all-time NHL great - it shines through so clearly in how smart and poised his game is. Doan can make plays anywhere on the ice, confidently commanding the middle (or, if he’s not at C, right) lanes and always adhering closely to his positioning. He’s not an overwhelmingly high-motor, but absolutely plays with the diligence to lift up high-skill wingers. There’s a long career ahead of Doan, even if it’s not in a role as flashy as his peers.
43. David Reinbacher (RHD), Montreal Canadiens, Draft: 2023-1:5
David ‘not Matvei Michkov’ Reinbacher has gotten a bad wrap since his draft day, but I’ve really admired how he’s brought his reserved and poised style overseas. He’s only improved his ability to change pace in the neutral zone, using swift spot-to-spot skating and a strong, active stick to quickly react to play. He knows how to fill the role of diligent, two-way safety net - really, in a similar way to pros like Mike Matheson. That’s clearly working for Montreal right now, and I imagine it’ll only become a more impactful role as they promote more high-skill forwards (and pseudo-forward Lane Hutson). Reinbacher should be the responsible defender behind that bunch, so long as he continues to hold up to tough minutes.
44. Easton Cowan (C/LW), Toronto Maple Leafs, Draft: 2023-1:28
Wow, what is there to say about Easton Cowan. He exploded last season, significantly outperforming his draft year and rivaling some Connor Bedard records. He managed that with game-breaking pace, reaching top speeds incredibly quickly and showing no issues with maintaining top-end puck skills at those speeds. But for all of his gifts, it seemed Cowan was either hot-or-not, and slow scanning left him behind more than a few plays. I really like Cowan’s path to the pros, and think he could find a very fitting role on the flank of Toronto’s second-line - but I’d be surprised if he became the elite scorer that his juniors career suggests.
45. Michael Brandsegg-Nygård (C/LW), Detroit Red Wings, Draft: 2024-1:15
Brandsegg-Nygard was the posterboy for responsibility in the 2024 NHL Draft. He’s incredibly, incredibly poised - controlling his energy and positioning beautifully, while still making sure he’s always breathing down the neck of opponents. He’s quick to act when he gets on the puck, finding teammates and making quick moves without hesitation. He looked like a natural in the grueling HockeyAllsvenskan, and should get a chance to harvest the fruits of his labor with a much more offensive-oriented SHL role next year. There will be a lot to be excited for if Brandsegg-Nygard finds an extra layer of offense, but even if he can’t - I’m still buying him as a core piece of Detroit’s middle-six moving forward.
46. Cole Eiserman (LW), New York Islanders, Draft: 2024-1:20
There are few prospects as acclaimed as Eiserman. You could argue that he’s the greatest goal-scorer to grace the NTDP - a program that’s hosted Patrick Kane, Auston Matthews, Jack Hughes, Cole Caufield… after all, it’s Eiserman that holds their scoring record. Those goals came in one of two ways - either Eiserman blazing down the boards with heft and speed, then beating opponents with a quick shot; or through the good ol’ Alex Ovechkin strategy of standing around until something happens, then not missing your chance. Both approaches worked wonders for Eiserman - they’ve worked wonders for him since his days at Shattuck. But that’s the issue… he’s been largely unchallenged at the top flight, quickly adapting what really are elite tools to any level he’s playing. That’ll only become harder to do at the next step, and while Eiserman’s tools are second to none, his one-dimensional skillset places him in the category of a Patrik Laine or Oliver Wahlstrom.
47. Joakim Kemell (RW), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2022-1:17
Kemell played a prototypical ‘sniper’ style in his draft year that was very popular. He still carries all of those strengths - led by a great ability to create space for a quick shot off the boards - but he’s added so much more to his toolset. Kemell worked hard off the puck last year - getting in opponents’ faces and forcing turnovers, then jumping into transition with a lot of momentum. He also significantly improved his ability to play laterally, and at slower speeds, creating a ton of additional chances for Kemell to show his strengths. He still needs to improve his ability to control the pace of play on his own, and seems a bit too typecast to ever fill a top-top role. But Kemell has a ton of momentum behind him, and works hard enough to vindicate solid NHL minutes soon.
48. Lian Bichsel (LHD), Dallas Stars, Draft: 2022-1:18
Lian Bichsel has faced a world of injuries and setbacks dating back before his draft selection. But he’s held strong through it all, emerging as a serious top-defender on a Rogle team that shot for the moon last season. There’s a lot to be said about how Bichsel managed his responsibilities in Rogle - he really thrived at orchestrating play from the back end and not pushing for low-chance risks. He looked mature and professional, vindicating years of top-prospect status and giving him plenty of momentum headed into his first North American season. There is absolutely a world where Bichsel works his way into a top-pair role - he showed he can manage it last season - but his struggles to stay on the ice and the crowd ahead of him in Dallas have me holding back my excitement just a bit.
49. Artyom Levshunov (RHD), Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2024-1:2
A lot of people called their shots with Levshunov last season, and he paid it off by fully embracing every ounce of coaching and role given to him by Adam Nightingale. He made tremendous strides last season as a result, completely refining how he skates on the puck and his confidence in driving play through the neutral zone. He’s works laterally much more now, really improving how he’s able to connect with his forwards to move opponents and open lanes. All the while, he’s stayed stout on defense, understanding how to square up opponents and drive them to the boards - giving him the two-way neutral zone control of a 10-year pro. That is what made him the second overall pick in ‘24 - and it’s going to earn him a lot of NHL games. But I have to cave to upside with Levshunov’s ranking, so while he’s as projectable as they come - my fears that he may one day need replacing on the top pair have me a bit more bearish.
50. Stian Solberg (LHD), Anaheim Ducks, Draft: 2024-1:23
Man, Stian Solberg is fun. He did it all for Norway this year, filling up to 30 minutes a night through some stretches and excelling in all situations. He’s strong on the puck, even stronger off the puck, and carries every ounce of heft and fundamentals needed to blow up opponents with hits. It’s rare that a defender fills such a prominent role in his draft year, but Solberg proved he was a player who could handle tons of trust. It’s yet to be seen how his toolbag of strong abilities translates to much tougher settings, but a jump to the SHL next season should give plenty of chance to see where Solberg really thrives. No matter what, it’s hard to think Solberg won’t find some way to NHL success after such an impressive draft year.
51. Beckett Sennecke (RW), Anaheim Ducks, Draft: 2024-1:3
Beckett Sennecke was this year’s late riser, jumping all the way up to third overall with an impressively hard-working and effective second half. He checks all of the boxes, bringing the fleet skating of a dynamic, high-skill winger and the size of a hefty power-forward - using both skillsets to make plays along the boards and quickly change direction. He’s constantly aware and knows how to quickly react to always stay in a position to make an impact. But it doesn’t seem Sennecke is aware of just how next-level his mix of size, speed, and skill really is - and his game misses that added layer of elite, individual ability because of it. He’s a responsible enough all-zones player to become a pro on merit alone - but if he wants to be a star top-liner, I’d like to see a step forward in Sennecke’s individual drive this year.
52. Oliver Bonk (RHD), Philadelphia Flyers, Draft: 2023-1:22
I love Oliver Bonk’s energy. He’s always ready to jump and roots that in really strong skating fundamentals - a great stance, strong legs, on his toes. That combines with great puck control, spatial awareness, and a sturdy frame to make Bonk a strong end-to-end play-driver. He breaks into and out of the zones well and knows how to connect with forwards in stride to create quick rushes up the ice. It’s all exciting - and with how his talents have grown since his draft year, I’d be surprised if he didn’t pan out - even if his ceiling seems a bit capped by a lack of any real “next level” ability.
53. Anton Silayev (LHD), New Jersey Devils, Draft: 2024-1:10
Silayev is another name from the 2024 Draft that’s a bit hard to pin down. He fell victim to the mid-season lull that hit a lot of U23 KHLers last year, struggling to break through opposing defenses when his teammates weren’t creating space in the middle of the ice. There’s no mistaking Silayev as a gifted puck-handler with the ability to start transition in his own end and finish it with a score. To add to it, he’s got a unicorn frame - fricken 6-foot-7 and 210 pounds - that you wouldn’t guess by seeing how he skates. He’s a special talent, with strong abilities, but he has glaring improvements to be made - namely his ability to work laterally in the offensive end and continuing to take advantage of his freakish frame. If he does that, he should have no problem filling the gut-punch role New Jersey’s hoping for.
54. Matthew Savoie (LW/RW/C), Edmonton Oilers, Draft: 2022-1:9
Matthew Savoie is headed in different directions depending on who you ask. A lot of people see him as one of the most emerging prospects in the league, now set for a golden chance to play next to this generation’s Gretzky. I love that spunk - but there’s a contingent of very knowledgeable socuts out west who aren’t as optimistic. They say Savoie hasn’t grown enough - physically or skillfully - over the last three years to sustain a true top-line at the NHL level. I don’t find myself that bearish, but I will give in to some of the knocks. For as strong as Savoie is at driving the puck up ice, it’s been surprising to see him not take to the role of serious #1. He’s just as comfortable hanging behind his teammates and cleaning up scraps. Not all players need to be serious #1s, especially if they’re handling responsibility in all three zones and taking advantage of the chances they do get. If anyone would be talented enough to play above that knock, it’d be Savoie. Nonetheless, I think the path to a star role will be harder for him than others.
55. Sean Behrens (LHD), Colorado Avalanche, Draft: 2021-2:61
Behrens has continued to stand as the quintessential ‘glue guy’ across the prospect world. He’s got all of the tools of a dazzling offensive-defenseman - blazing speed, fantastic puck control, and heads-up playmaking - but Behrens’ fundamentals and hockey IQ have made him a much, much more adaptable defender than that. He’s all over the lineup, having been cast in all kinds of roles from the defensive safety net behind Lane Hutson, to the X-factor scorer when Denver needed a goal. Behrens has all of the two-way diligence in between those points - a seriously testament to just how made-for-hockey he is. Colorado is very excited for Behrens, and I don’t blame them - once he brings his game up to pro speeds, the sky will be the limit… especially in an organization known for Samuel Girard and Devon Toews.
56. Brayden Yager (C), Winnipeg Jets, Draft: 2023-1:14
We talk about individual talent - that’s Brayden Yager. He’s fantastic on the puck, working in and out of tight spaces effectively and able to make plays from awkward positions. It makes him dangerous all around the offensive zone. But he hugs the middle lane, more often trying to beat opponents with north-south speed than east-west puck movement. That’s worked really well in juniors, and may even work a decent amount at the pro levels, but you can tell that Yager understands space more than his style credits. It makes him one of the most boom/bust players on this list - will Pittsburgh bring out his offensive gifts?
57. Nikolai Kovalenko (RW/LW), Colorado Avalanche, Draft: 2018-6:171
I’ve been surprised to not see the prospect world giving Kovalenko more acclaim. At just 23, he’s already worked into a top-six role in the KHL and vindicated it with routinely-high scoring. And he’s not getting the points by fluke - Kovalenko truly excels at driving into the offensive end, using the perimeter to open space, and crashing the net when the moment is right. He’s a high-skill winger, able to beat opponents one-on-one to open space and quickly find teammates. But he’s also a proud winger, who can fall victim to using his linemates as an emergency release valve more than anything else. That’s a bad habit to bring into the NHL, and could be enough to require a hardy AHL stint. But Kovalenko is beyond proven at the pro level, and plays with the skillful and fast skating that so many KHLers lack in their move to the NHL. So long as he can continue to play through high pace and hard hits, Kovalenko seems set up for strong success.
58. Scott Morrow (RHD), Carolina Hurricanes, Draft: 2021-2:40
Man, Scott Morrow is an interesting player. He plays one stick length ahead of his position at all times, pushing the boundaries of “too aggressive” without the wild, positionless runaround that you normally see in aggressive players. He’s strong on the puck, quick to make decisions, and effective when he drives the net - leading to a ton of scoring. But I’ve been skeptical about how Morrow’s game would adapt to the NHL scene for a few years - and while I think Carolina is a great landing spot, I’m not sure I see a clear path to routine top-pair minutes. I’ll pull him into the transition ranks for that fact, but don’t be surprised if Morrow ends up a high-end scorer once he’s settled his feet in the pros.
59. Riley Heidt (C/LW), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2023-2:64
Heidt fills the small areas perfectly. Whether it’s the netfront role on the power-play, the second-man-high on the forecheck, or finding space for a one-timer on the wings - Heidt’s agility and athleticism keep him an open and effective passing option at all times… and he doesn’t miss when he’s in-close. I’ve always wanted a bit more individual effort from Heidt, but even without it, he’s an exciting linemate to have - quickly adapting to play and bringing his energy to plays in all three zones. That impact has been too strong to not translate to the top flight. With the right growth, he could handle top-six minutes one day.
60. Emil Hemming (LW), Dallas Stars, Draft: 2024-1:29
Hemming was missing a step when the year started. He was a dazzling shooter and sturdy physical presence but struggled to get to his spots or join quick jumps up the ice. Those were the exact concerns he addressed over the course of the year, willing his way into a Liiga roster spot and using the pro setting to significantly improve the paths he took to the puck and his awareness on the forecheck. It was a much-needed change, that slowly grew Hemming into a dangerous offensive presence any time the puck got deep into the zone. He’s still not particularly swift, and he’s not going to drive your transition, but Hemming’s strengths, frame, and development momentum give him the pieces to be a very strong role-player in the NHL one day. I’m banking on that pro assuredness, even if he’ll first have to carry it through a year in the OHL.
61. Bradly Nadeau (LW), Carolina Hurricanes, Draft: 2023-1:30
I’m a bit amazed that Bradly Nadeau has already made his NHL debut. That’s impressively quick for a player who - for all of his dazzling offense - looked like he’d face an uphill battle dealing with the physicality of Hockey East. Well, he didn’t - and rather continued dominating control of the middle lane, from the moment the puck is dropped on the faceoff until it was in the back of the other team’s net. It’s all energy, all the time for Nadeau, who really excels at using quick thinking and quicker hands to work aorund defenders and take advantage of open lanes. He’s quickly emerged as the #1-center everywhere he’s gone, and while I again worry that he’ll face an uphill battle physically, I’d be surprised if he didn’t once again earn that role in the AHL this year. It’ll be his biggest test of skill to date if he does - and should be the year that proves if this guy is news or noise.
62. Jimmy Snuggerud (RW), St. Louis Blues, Draft: 2022-1:23
While I’ve been surprised by Nadeau’s quick climb, I’m a bit disappointed to see Jimmy Snuggerud still in college. He’s emphasized that his vision is set on winning a National Championship - a feat made a hell of a lot easier by Matthew Wood’s transfer. But the kid has the physicality, drive, and quick playmaking needed to be a fantastic forechecker at the pro level. He’ll follow in Jake Neighbours’ footsteps, needing to improve his pace and creation of time and space, but could yield really strong scoring upside when all is said and done. But, like Neighbours, I think his limitations in pace and lateral playmaking will keep him from a genuine star role.
63. Igor Chernyshov (LW), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2024-2:33
The annual hardest-worker award has to go to Chernyshov out of the 2024 class. He’s absolutely tireless, excelling at applying pressure quickly and maintaining it through an entire shift. He’s a beautiful skater, moving laterally well and keeping an active stick - helping him match any shift in play and quickly react to changes in possession. He’s not the best offensive-creator in the world, but makes up for it by always making it to his spots in time to make a play. His work ethic and build all scream pro-made, with top-six upside if he can find a scoring boost.
64. Mason Lohrei (LHD), Boston Bruins, Draft: 2020-2:58
Mason Lohrei is an NHL defenseman. That is simply impossible to argue at this point. He jumped into the pros with momentum, making an impact with his on-puck play-driving even amid struggles when play was set up in either end. It seems he took the first step toward being a true 200-foot piece at the top level, and I fully expect him to solidify that role this year - though I wouldn’t be surprised if missing explosivity and individual scoring limit him to a high-end second-pair role.
65. EJ Emery (RHD), New York Rangers, Draft: 2024-1:30
I’ll admit to not caring to know too much about EJ Emery after his U17 season in the NTDP - for all of the talks of a good personality and drive, his on-ice left me wanting a bit more. But wow did he make me eat my words quickly, stepping up as the single hardest worker in the summer between his U17 and U18 season. He was always in the weight room, growing from a lanky teen into a genuine athlete. It took some time to see that shine through in his on-ice, but we started seeing glimpses in the year’s second half, with Emery significantly improving his ability to respond to changes in direction and keep up with attacking opponents while skating backwards. Those improvements coupled with the strong IQ and fundamentals that he’s always boasted, making Emery seriously impressive when it came to shutting down play at the tops of the circles and quickly jumping into transition up the ice. Some NHL scouts worry that Emery is more of an athlete than a hockey player, and I can’t necessarily dissuade those concerns. But I think he’s smart enough to continue his stout defense through the NCAA level. More growth should come after that.
66. Oliver Moore (C), Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2023-1:19
If every player on this list lined up on the goal line and raced to the other, I’d put my money on Olly Moore to win. Tireless speed is the name of his game, and how he’s able to drive into the zone on the forecheck is really impressive. He’s as agile as they come, able to maintain speed through any change in direction, and in the tightest of spaces, helping him breathe down the necks of defenders. His stickhandling and processing are just as quick, helping Moore instantly find open lanes and chances at the net. He grew into a true-to-form playmaker last year, and will now be joined by a true-to-form sniper in Matthew Wood. That could make for an explosive year for Olly Moore, and a great segue into a future next to Bedard and Nazar.
67. Sacha Boisvert (C), Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2024-1:18
Chicago got the perfect compliment to Moore with their early pick of Sacha Boisvert, who I really can’t say enough about. He enjoys the grind, and works as hard as anyone on and off the ice because of it. It gives Boisvert a very unique edge to his game - he has the size and heavy skating to be a really burly player, and he is. How he fights into the slot and wins space translates to the top flight, and it’s a cherry on top that Boisvert is such a talented puckhandler. He’s headed for a pro career - though I’ll say I think he finds more comfort as a long-time 3C than anything else.
68. Ryder Ritchie (RW), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2024-2:45
Speaking of toolsy players, I’ve loved how Ryder Ritchie has developed. He’s always stood out as the heads-down, hard-worker of any Canadian lineup, and he seemed to fully take on that role last year. Ritchie is smart and technically talented, but his drive and awareness are what make him special. That might limit his overall ceiling, but it will absolutely earn him an everyday role in the NHL - and make fans happy they drafted him.
69. Olen Zellweger (LHD), Anaheim Ducks, Draft: 2021-2:34
Olen Zellweger is great. He’s among the smartest on-ice in his age group, and has done well at building the hard skin needed to play D at the top levels without sacrificing any of his agile skill. There’s absolutely a path to meaningful mintues for him, though his early pro minutes have left me searching for the breakaway step that he had in juniors. If that step is missing, I don’t know if he’ll ever emerge into a #1 role - which seems to make sense given his frame. Still, he’s bound to make strong impacts on the NHL lineup soon.
70. Jack Devine (RW/C), Florida Panthers, Draft: 2022-7:221
Considered a first-round prospect in his U17 season at the NTDP, he ended up falling to the seventh round with a slow draft year at Denver. But he was playing in a minimal role, on a team that wasn’t much concerned with developing high draft picks. Devine waited patiently for his shot at the top of the lineup and took things seriously when it finally came, emerging as the workhorse atop the Pioneers’ lineup. He’s since filled every role he could - serving as an intimidating first-man-in and strong defensive presence in ‘22-23, and standing as more of a puck-controlling play-driver this year. He still has tendencies that are less than ideal, like how much time he spends in the corners, but Devine’s path to Denver’s top-line has instilled a lot of strong pro qualities, taught to him by one of the best in the business in David Carle. It’s a question of when, not if, Devine will play in the NHL - and his work ethic and daunting size could be enough to earn a role on their own.
71. Ethan Del Mastro (LHD), Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2021-4:105
Del Mastro is another feature underappreciated player on this list. He’s smart, and I think that goes unnoticed because it shows best on the defensive side of the puck. He controls the lane beautifully, staying square to the puck and excelling at the minute hitting fundamentals- edging players into the boards and hitting through the hand. I think he’ll warrant an NHL role sooner rather than later, and his well-rounded and physical style has me anticipating a very long career.
72. Jani Nyman (RW), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2022-2:49
Nyman has always had distinct pro qualities. He knows how to put his head down and drive through opponents, and carries that same energy into his spot-to-spot defending off of the puck. He’s mighty impactful as a result, though he was considerably missing speed in his draft year. Those issues haven’t been eliminated per se, but Nyman has found more power in his strides, and brings more get-up-and-go to every shift; helping alleviate some of his lacksidasical concerns. Without them, he’s an already-seasoned pro who knows how to beat opponents. That should give him NHL upside, even if his slow step may cap his ceiling.
73. Chris Pelosi (C), Boston Bruins, Draft: 2023-3:92
I’ve been surprised to not see more people excited over Pelosi. It’s hard not to be excited when you watch him play - he’s fantastic on the puck, and knows how to work his way onto the puck and control a shift with strong stickhandling, good change of pace, and heads-up paths. None of his individual skills leap off the page - though I think how he controls zone-entries is special - but Pelosi is damn reliable. You can trust him to make smart plays on both sides of the puck every single shift, giving him tons of lineup flexibility. If I was building an NHL team, I’d want him on my depth chart, and this ranking may even underrate his projectability.
74. Felix Unger Sorum (RW), Carolina Hurricanes, Draft: 2023-2:62
I’m so excited for Unger-Sorum. He’s brought the energy and drive you want out of a prospect since day one, eager to be involved both on and off of the ice. That’s combined fantastically with his late-as-can-be birthday, and Carolina has taken full advantage of the extra time, instilling tons of direction and poise to Unger-Sorum’s drive. That’s made him an all-around toolsy player, though I still struggle to see where his path to an NHL top-six may lie. Even then, he’s got a leg up on his peers, and has made a pattern out of wowing me with his development. That should make for an exciting year ahead.
75. Fraser Minten (C), Toronto Maple Leafs, Draft: 2022-2:38
His rank may suggest I’m bearish on Minten - but it’s anything but. I think this kid has all of the tools to be a well-managed and impactful lineup player. He’s as sharp as they come and knows how to play above his position, understanding where he can get a leg-up on opponents with smart paths and positioning. That capability translates onto the puck, where he’s proven a dominate playmaker - though I’ve failed to see any of the overwhelming talent that’d make him a star pro scorer. For that reason, I remain resigned that Minten will be a diligent two-way center with PK upside, though far from a superstar-to-be.
76. Axel Sandin-Pelikka (LHD), Detroit Red Wings, Draft: 2023-1:17
Sandin-Pelikka is as creative as they come on the puck. He’s really honed his ability to use nifty skating to his advantage, making quick cuts into the middle lane and walking the blue-line with plays in mind. It makes him hard to stop, though he often needs to be square to an opponent to cleanly beat them. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi needed to be a true #1 defender in the NHL, and I don’t know if ASP has that. But he does have plenty of on-puck skill and off-puck smarts, and I have no doubt he’ll play good games in a Wings jersey one day.
77. Zachary Bolduc (C), St. Louis Blues, Draft: 2021-1:17
Bolduc is another player missing the je ne sais quoi needed to really match my expectations - though I might be the fool for that, because everyone in St. Louis is really excited for this kid. He may even make the team out of camp! That’s on the back of a heavy, pro-ready frame and fantastic shooting ability - two things Bolduc has improved substantially as he’s learned to create space and plays off the boards. But I find that he doesn’t jump out as creative in many other areas - a fine limitation for a player headed for a career middle-six role, though not a great help in getting up this list.
78. Roby Jarventie (RW/C), Edmonton Oilers, Draft: 2020-2:33
I love Jarventie. He has all of the size, heads-up playmaking, and situational awareness that you could want out of a player - giving him the flexibility to make meaningful plays in any space and any role. He’s held back by a lack of any one illustrious skill, keeping his ceiling pretty low, but I have no doubt that he’ll be a third-liner worth rostering for a good while.
79. Daniil But (LW/C), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2023-1:12
But is hard to gauge. Such is the case with a 6-foot-5, statistical unicorn who’s bounced back and forth between resilient goal-scoring, pass-first playmaking, and flat-out no scoring at all. He projects as a really impressive on-puck play-driver, capable of fighting the puck out of the zone on the flanks, then working into the middle before breaking into the O-zone. That’s a patented trait of top scorers, especially when it’s paired with strong hands and shooting, but I don’t think we’ll get a good gauge on how well But will fill that expectation until he’s in North America.
80. Cole Beaudoin (C), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2024-1:24
Utah spent an earlier pick than I would’ve on Beaudoin, but it’s hard to deny his rugged ability. Beaudoin knows how to dominant the gritty areas of the ice, making plays along the boards and in the slots, unleashing a fast and hard shots the moment he’s given enough space. His ability to make the nuanced, “boring” plays is impressive, and makes him look like a special-teams key for a long time… though I’d temper expectations on any crazy scoring upside.
81. Shakir Mukhamadullin (LHD), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2020-1:20
I would trust Mukhamadulin on the puck with everything in me. How he’s able to carry the puck out of the DZ, find a lane through the NZ, and connect with teammates in the OZ is impressive and surprisingly consistent. But he’s struggled to carry that directly into the NHL, and his off-puck play certainly leaves a lot of fundamentals to be desired. He’s impactful when he’s impactful, and has shown phenomenal growth over the last few seasons - though I’m anticipating he becomes an impactful #3/4 before he takes over 25 mins a night in San Jose.
82. Lenni Hameenaho (RW), New Jersey Devils, Draft: 2023-2:58
Hameenaho falls into the category of players like Jani Nyman - well-seasoned pros who have continued to find ways to make plays every shift, even amid moves into the pros. Hameenaho’s flavor features a ton of lane control, with the Finn really capable of creating time and space for his team to control the breakout, gain their poise, and move up the ice cohesively. He’s often needed his linemates to complete the nifty plays he gets going, though that’s starting to change this year… and could earn Hameenaho a real boost up any future lists. To think New Jersey has this kind of pro-ready talent headed for a third-line spot is impressive - and I bet Hameenaho fills it beautifully.
83. Simon Edvinsson (LHD), Detroit Red Wings, Draft: 2021-1:6
I was the one laying bricks in front of the Edvinsson hype train in his draft year, and I continue to urge trepidation with Detroit’s supposed next top-liner. He’s certainly flashed strong play in the minors, improving his ability to control the puck with poise and clear-headed decision-making, though he’s continued to get a bit flustered off-puck. That’s a part of being young, but if Edvinsson can’t adjust soon, I worry he may not fill the shoes Detroit needs him to. Of course, that could be helped significantly by a pairing with Moritz Seider, in which case - I’ll be due to eat my words.
84. Fabian Lysell (RW), Boston Bruins, Draft: 2021-1:21
Continuing the string of my bearish 2021 takes is Fabian Lysell, who’s headed for the AHL once again despite finally finding his scoring kick last season. Lysell is abundantly talented - he’s made that obvious in his AHL games - but while he’s improved his ability to play through physicality, he still seems a bit directionless unless play is moving clearly. He’s grown in the last few years, but I don’t know if it’s been on a track to the NHL.
85. Jonathan Lekkerimaki (LW), Vancouver Canucks, Draft: 2022-1:15
The reigning ‘SHL Rookie of The Year’ is tons of fun to watch. Lekkerimaki’s shot is as dangerous as anyone’s on this list, and he knows how to use it quickly upon gaining the zone or use it as a slight to help slip around defenders and work in-deep. It’s impressive, though I’m worried that he didn’t add enough pace over the last few seasons to carry his creative offense directly into the NHL. He’ll more likely need a bit of time to season, and I’m remaining hesitant until I see a spark.
86. Nikita Artamonov (LW/C), Carolina Hurricanes, Draft: 2024-2:50
Artamonov is defiantly pro-made. He has the frame, the power-skating, and the offensive tools to be a true danger every shift - complimented by fantastic flexibility. He can step into draws, dominate any role on the PP, and make plays in all three zones - though again, his pace and consistency don’t quite seem on the level of the NHL. With such pro-ready players - especially KHLers - it’s always nerve-racking to see if they’ll add the extra pace and poise needed to really become special… though Artamonov’s well-rounded and heads-up style seems like a great choice to fit the bill.
87. Gabe Perreault (RW), New York Rangers, Draft: 2023-1:23
Rounding out the BC trio is Gabe Perreault, who falls much further than his linemates - though it’s hard to argue his technical skills aren’t just as good. Perreault has been the perennial first-man-in on that line’s forecheck, and developed a really impressive ability to pester opponents because of it. When he inevitably forces a turnover, Perreault is nifty on the puck and knows how to quickly connect with teammates. But I fear we haven’t seen him fill a wide variety of roles over the last few years, and he’s set to once again fill the hard-nosed forechecker role next to James Hages this year. For all of his skill, he’ll need that forechecking style to translate one-to-one if he wants to continue success at the pro levels. With his size, I’m not sure that’ll be easy… then again, Perreault could quickly prove me a doubter with a breakout into a new style.
88. Andrew Cristall (LW), Washington Capitals Draft: 2023-2:40
Cristall is as skilled on the puck as they come. He knows how to dance around defenders in even the tightest spaces, and excels at creating lanes for his teammates when working the puck off the board or out of the corner. Adjusting those traits to the NHL is always a difficult process, but his early showings have been positive - and it’s clear that Cristall can score if he can stay on the puck.
89. Aatos Koivu (C), Montreal Canadiens, Draft: 2024-3:70
Aatos Koivu was my honorary first-rounder this year, falling just outside at #33. Three months later, I’m loving that call. He’s really impressed me with how diligent and responsible he is off of the puck - filling any and all roles of a stout centerman while bringing imposing size and surprising drive on the puck. He can truly fill any role on the forecheck, and as this year’s Liiga season takes off, he’s showing he can fill the role of high-space shooter too. I know everyone wants to ignore bloodlines, but that sounds a hell of a lot like his father Saku Koivu. And like Saku, I imagine Aatos is gearing up for a long career, with a role determined by how well he manages NHL pace.
90. Matej Blumel (LW/RW), Dallas Stars, Draft: 2019-4:100
You have to admire Matej Blumel’s ability to just fill a role. He was incredibly impactful this season, nearly entirely on the back of a poised, aware, and reactive style. Blumel was always in the right spot, and knew how to make the little plays to connect with teammates and take advantage of gaps in the defense. He scored a lot because of it… well, that diligence and a fantastic shooting ability. I think he earned a lot of trust this season, and showed the hard-nosed traits needed to put up points even in a menial role. And he filled spots on both special teams! That makes for a ton of value - and should eventually slot Blumel nicely into a Stars roster with a full top-end.
91. Yegor Surin (C/RW), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2024-1:22
Yegor Surin is this list'‘s personification of feisty. He plays with a ton of speed and proud shoulders, ready to knock off any defenders that step into him or impede his path to the puck on the breakout. It’s impressive how much might he fits into a short-and-stout frame, especially when you see just how sharp his stickhandling and shooting is to boot. He knows how to make an impact, though he can just as easily lose his head or look confused. That doesn’t mean there’s not solid NHL upside here; just that it needs honed a bit first.
92. Carson Rehkopf (C/LW), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2023-2:50
I’m a bit saddened to not be a prouder member of the Rehkopf hype train. His raw skill is absolutely evident - with Rehkopf a pure shooter, capable of creating and utilizing space consistently. If a goalie cheats or slides out of position, Rehkopf is quick to take advantage - but I’ve wanted more grit and hard-nosed drive out of him. As it stands, he can be a bit deactivated when not on the puck or working towards a scoring chance. It forces him into a third-man-high role when driving into the zone, unless he’s the one carrying the puck over the blue. That’s been enough to find production in juniors, but I fear that drawback could hold Rehkopf back from a dazzling role in the NHL… unless he moves to the wing!
93. Miko Matikka (RW), Utah Hockey Club, Draft: 2022-3:67
I could not be prouder of how Matikka has grown in America. He’s looked cut from a different cloth since his days in Finland, but in America he’s found his stride, how to hit, and how to use his size to control the puck like he’s Tim Duncan protecting the key. All of this combines with Matikka’s incredible shooting - and, frankly, his clear size/physical advantage - to build an incredibly dangerous player. He may never be thee play-driver on his line, but you can trust Matikka on the puck in all three zones - and both his passing and shooting are strong enough to beat anyone in his age group.
94. Tom Willander (RHD), Vancouver Canucks, Draft: 2023-1:11
I’ve truly found myself a bit bored by Tom Willander in the years since his draft. He’s continued to excel as a 200-foot playmaker, capable of shutting down opponents with smart positioning and an active stick and then quickly sparking transition with a hard pass or quick cut. But he doesn’t often join the rush, and takes quickly to the roles of safety-net behind feistier D-partners. That’s fine, and speaks to Willander’s reliability, but it also keeps me from thinking he’ll inspire much… though yes Vancouver fans, you finally have a defense prospect with legitimate NHL upside here.
95. Aron Kiviharju (LHD), Minnesota Wild, Draft: 2024-4:122
Kiviharju missed the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign with a lower-body injury, and he’s since returned to a difficult role on his off-hand with HIFK. That isn’t the best setup for a Top 100 prospect in the world - proved by Kiviharju’s lack of scoring in the Liiga regular season - but I’ve been really encouraged by how he’s bounced back from missing the single most important development year of any career. Kiviharju is back to playing diligent and effective defense through the neutral zone, using strong positioning and an active stick to shut down opponents; and quick hands and passing to lift up his forwards. He’s enough of a playmaker to earn routine power-play ice time and, for all of his woes, doesn’t look out of place on a pro lineup. However, he is clearly missing some explosivity that would take him game back to the level of "Top 10 hopeful”, where it was in his U17 season. It will take accelerated development to make up for Kiviharju’s lost time, but he’s proving responsible in the early going - and I think he still has a strong case to earn a top-four NHL role one day.
96. David Goyette (C), Seattle Kraken, Draft: 2022-2:61
We complete the trio of Sudbury Wolves with David Goyette, who served as the diligent safety net behind a very eager offense. The tempo that Goyette brings to driving up and down the ice is impressive - he’s a north-south player at his core, but stays diligently aware of his responsibilities in all three zones, making him an incredibly effective at stifling opposing momentum, and facilitating puck-moving when his team gets moving up the ice. But for all of his strengths, Goyette’s at his best as the support behind other stars - which makes him a bit hard to project, even if the skills and smarts are there.
97. Samuel Poulin (RW/LW), Pittsburgh Penguins, Draft: 2019-1:21
The flashiest players don’t go for the big play every time, and that’s proven by Sam Poulin - who excels at always being in the right spot to keep the puck moving and make the right plays. That ability inevitably lands him plenty of chances to finish off odd-man-rushes or rip open power-play shots, and he really knows how to take advantage of the chances he gets. I think his ability to score through those reservations will make him a valuable offensive piece no matter where he is in the lineup - and should lead him to some solid NHL scoring one day.
98. Zachary L'Heureux (LW/C), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2021-1:27
What’s there to say about L’Heureux. No other player on this list plays with the shittiness that he does. He’s studied at the Claude Lemieux school for misfit toys, and brings that antagonizing presence to every single game. And it works wonders - largely thanks to L’Heureux’s powerful skating and ability to read play putting routinely placing him in the right spots to make plays. He’s impactful in all situations… so long as his mindless decisions don’t pull him off the ice. L’Heureux doesn’t need to (necessarily) cut out the dickhead hockey, but he does need to learn to hone it much more. He could be a modern-day Paul Holmgren… if he reins things in.
99. Kasper Halttunen (RW), San Jose Sharks, Draft: 2023-2:36
Another bid into the world of forgotten prospects is Halttunen, whose size alone is enough to warrant excitement. He’s a sharp-edged 6-foot-3 and knows how to use that size to physically outcompete his opponents, winning the small battles in the low crease or shooting lanes. Those traits showed well in Finland, but he’s impressed even more by carrying them through to a prominent role in the OHL. Halttunen has shown a strong understanding for his role on both sides of the puck, and knows how to make a play when things come his way. That may not lead to the flashiest upside, but it has me confident that he’ll be able to continue translating his strong offense (in terms of drive and heft) through the next levels.
100. Teddy Stiga (LW), Nashville Predators, Draft: 2024-2:55
Gotta love Teddy Stiga, who took home my bill for ‘Most Improved’ among the NTDP’s 06 class. He came an incredible way over two years with the Program, finding how to bolster dazzling on-puck skill and creative attacking with smart positioning and off-puck drive. He’s become significantly more impactful as a result, capable of keeping up and even setting pace off the puck as he lies in wait, ready to jump at any loose puck or change in hands. Stiga is impactful when he gets a chance, and knows how to make defenders look silly with quick hands. But his frame is far from pro-ready, and for all of his growth over the last few years, I want to see it continue in college before I get too excited. Call him our #100 with room to grow.
Featured Mentions
F Jett Luchanko, Philadelphia Flyers, Draft: 2024-1:13
F AJ Spellacy, Chicago Blackhawks, Draft: 2024-3:72
I gotta say, I wasn’t familiar with either Luchanko or Spellacy nine months ago - but both have very quickly caught my eye. You hear tons about their work ethic and drive, and that has shined through in their early camps. I wouldn’t be surprised if either made it into the pros soon - and while I’m not the best to gauge either, there’s probably a good case for both going on this list.
Honorable Mentions
Oliver Kapanen, Lucas Pettersson, Brennan Othmann, Matvei Korotky, Owen Pickering, Joshua Roy, Julian Lutz, Jesse Pulkkinen, Tristan Luneau, Calum Ritchie, Noah Ostlund, Matthew Coronato, Mackie Samoskevich, Shai Buium, Gleb Trikozov, Hunter Brzustewicz, Liam Greentree, Isak Rosen, David Edstrom, Colin Graf, Eric Pohlkamp, Martin Misiak, Gavin Brindley, Vincent Iorio, Jackson Blake, Jonatan Berggren, Samuel Honzek, Sam Lipkin, Ben Danford, Landon Slaggert, Brendan Brisson, Cruz Lucius, Alex Bump, Nikita Novikov, Graeme Clarke, Linus Karlsson, Ryan Johnson, Ethan Gauthier, Matvei Gridin, Ondrej Becher, Vsevolod Komarov
Full Table Ranks
