Alexander Zetterberg – McKeen's Hockey

2025 NHL DRAFT: SECOND CHANCES – Overage Draft Eligible Prospects – Part Two – United States

Brock Otten, Josh Klicka, Sean Boyd — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 15:10:12 +0000

In a normal year, scouting hockey is marred by imperfection. Every year high end players get skipped over at the NHL draft for various reasons. Maybe they suffered through injuries. Maybe their team struggled, and it prevented scouts from getting a good read on them. Maybe their team was too good, forcing them down the depth chart with limited minutes and exposure opportunities. Or...maybe they just were not good enough. But thankfully human development is nonlinear and therefore unpredictable. Teenage hockey players are far from a finished product on the ice as their games mature just as the rest of their body and mind does. That is why it is critical to track players as they move through their second and third years of draft eligibility (or fourth years of eligibility for some European players).

For those unfamiliar, North American players with birth dates from January 1st to September 15th, will be eligible for three NHL drafts. Players with birth dates from September 16th to December 31st, will be eligible for two NHL drafts. And for European players (in European leagues), extend that eligibility by one year in both cases. In the last decade, NHL scouts have increased the rate with which they are selecting “re-entry” candidates, or players previously passed over. Contract limits have made it critical for teams to spread out where they select players from, in addition to their age. This has made second- and third-year eligible U.S. and European based players especially attractive. However, these players have had a lot of success in recent years too. Look around the league and you see these players everywhere. For example, Calgary Flames standout defender Mackenzie Weegar was one. Ottawa Senators standout forward Drake Batherson was one. So too was Winnipeg Jets starter Connor Hellebuyck. Pyotr Kochetkov, one of the top young netminders in the NHL was also one.

Last year, eight “re-entry” candidates went in the top four rounds; Ilya Nabokov, Jesse Pulkkinen, Ondrej Becher, Pavel Moysevich, Trevor Hoskin, Chase Pietila, Dmitri Gamzin, and Blake Montgomery. Nabokov and Pulkkinen were taken in the second round. In our “second chances” article last year (Part 1): (Part 2): (Part 3): We wrote about six of those eight. In total there were 42 taken, right around the trend of other recent drafts (roughly about 20% of all players selected). Additionally, of those 42, we identified and wrote about 25 (well over half of them) in our aforementioned second chances series. Just like in previous editions of this annual report, we aim to identify more.

In 2025, we have some very interesting candidates. Tanner Adams, a player we have ranked and written about previously, continues to improve at the NCAA level with Providence and has emerged as one of the better players in Hockey East. Jamiro Reber and David Granberg look like great picks out of Sweden. Reber has been fantastic in the SHL this year, while Granberg was one of Sweden’s top players at the WJC’s. Magomed Sharakanov has emerged as one of the top young defenders in the KHL. Kristian Epperson has paired with Michael Misa in Saginaw to become one of the OHL’s elite play drivers. This article intends to highlight them and many other candidates who could be part of that 20% this year.

This is part two of the series, putting the spotlight on those re-entries available from leagues in the United States.

NCAA

Charlie Cerrato - Center - Penn State University

Cerrato played for the USNTDP U18 team in his draft year, putting up unspectacular metrics. After a strong season with the Chicago Steel in the USHL the following year, he has found his stride this season with Penn State at the college hockey level. While not the flashiest player, Cerrato’s game is built on reliability, intelligence, and an exceptional work ethic, traits that have allowed him to become an integral part of one his teams. Cerrato has the size and physicality to compete effectively at both ends of the ice. His skating has taken significant steps forward, particularly his first-step quickness and ability to close gaps defensively. Offensively, Cerrato has shown flashes of creativity, using his vision and hockey IQ to make smart plays in the offensive zone. Leans playmaker over sniper. Cerrato’s biggest strengths lie in his defensive game and versatility. On the penalty kill, his anticipation and active stick make him a constant threat to disrupt passing lanes. While his ceiling may not be as high as some other prospects, Cerrato’s floor is exceptionally solid. He projects as a reliable bottom-six forward at the NHL level. As one of the more polished re-entry candidates in this draft, Cerrato is an appealing option for teams seeking a mature, two-way player with a proven ability to adapt and improve. (Josh Klicka)

Brian Nicholas - Center - Brown University

Brian Nicholas, a 19-year-old forward from Scarsdale, New York, has demonstrated significant development over recent seasons. His first season of junior hockey was in his first potential draft year of 2023, playing in the USHL for the Sioux City Musketeers only playing in 37 games and registering just seven points. The following year he made significant improvements at Sioux City with 18 goals and 57 points over 62 games, showcasing his offensive capabilities at the junior level. Now we see him at Brown University, where he has posted 17 points, seven of those being goals, in 18 games. Nicholas is recognized for his speed, vision, and passing abilities. His skating allows him to effectively alter pace, keeping defenders uncertain and enabling him to find open teammates. His edge work facilitates strong puck protection in open ice, and his high compete level makes him a valuable asset in all three zones. Additionally, Nicholas has demonstrated toughness, contributing to his effectiveness on both the forecheck and backcheck. His combination of skating ability, playmaking, and overall compete skills project him as a potential bottom-six forward at the professional level. Continued development, particularly in consistency and defensive play, will be crucial as he transitions to higher levels of competition. We can see he has made the jump from each level of hockey and is projecting to follow through at the NCAA level. (Josh Klicka)

Francesco Dell’Elce - Defenseman - University Massachusetts

Francesco Dell’Elce’s draft year has been a story of growth and adaptation. While his offensive skills were well-documented during his time with the Penticton Vees in the BCHL, his transition to NCAA hockey with UMass has provided a new proving ground for his abilities. After an impressive junior season where he was a BCHL Second Team All-Star and All-Rookie Team member, Dell’Elce has shown flashes of his potential at the collegiate level. Dell’Elce is best described as an offensive-minded, mobile defenseman. His skating ability is the foundation of his game; he’s a smooth, fluid skater with excellent edge work and mobility. His strength lies in transitioning the puck up the ice—whether through crisp outlet passes or by carrying the puck himself. Dell’Elce’s ability to alter pace and find passing lanes under pressure is one of his standout traits, enabling him to exploit gaps in opposing defenses. He also possesses a solid shot that can create more chances when he’s on the ice in the offensive zone. With average height and size, his offensive game must continue to improve and produce at a high rate at the developmental level of play due to his lack of overall defensive game. His defense needs significant improvement to become a reliable regular NHL defenseman in the future. Too overly passive on defense, relies on skating too much. For now, he is projected as a puck-moving 6th/7th defenseman. (Josh Klicka)

Elias Jansson - Winger - Michigan Tech University

Elias Jansson is a Finnish forward, currently playing as a freshman for Michigan Tech University in the 2024-25 season. Prior to joining Michigan Tech, Jansson played for Kärpät in Finland's U20 SM-sarja, where he tallied 57 points (22 goals, 35 assists) in 46 games during the 2023-24 season. His performance earned him a spot on the U20 SM-sarja Second All-Star Team. In his initial draft eligible season of 2022-23, he made the jump early in the season from U18 play to U20. Playing against higher level of competition while recording 19 points in 39 games. Currently as a freshman at Michigan Tech, Jansson has been given opportunities to contribute to the team's offense, including time on the power play. While he possesses solid playmaking abilities, there are areas for improvement in his skating and physical development, which we will keep a close eye on during his adjustment period to the collegiate level. Despite this, he has the potential to become a solid offensive contributor in pro hockey. Jansson is recognized for his offensive prowess, demonstrating creative playmaking abilities and composure with the puck, especially during rushes where he has the ability to slow the game down to find the difficult pass and make it look easy. He effectively positions himself near the net to capitalize on scoring opportunities. While his game is predominantly offensive, he maintains some decent defensive foundations with his positioning and stick. His skillset doesn’t wow you enough to be considered for a regular NHL lineup, so he’s projected as a depth forward / minor league recall. (Josh Klicka)

Alexander Zetterberg - Center - Boston University

Alexander Zetterberg is a Swedish-born forward currently playing for Boston University in the NCAA. He stands at 5 feet 8 inches and weighs 164 pounds. Zetterberg shoots right-handed and primarily plays as a center. Prior to joining Boston University, Zetterberg played for Örebro HK in Sweden's J20 Nationell league. In the 2023-24 season as a draft eligible, he recorded 21 goals and 37 assists, totaling 58 points in 45 games. He also represented Sweden internationally, including participation in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. As a freshman at Boston University, Zetterberg has begun adapting to the collegiate level. His offensive skills are solid and overall hockey sense and awareness is very good. His size has been a topic of discussion. Displays solid two-way play with his hockey sense and positioning off the puck. Even with his solid skating, puck skills, and hockey IQ, it’s still in question if he will be drafted this year due to his size and those traits not overpowering other areas of his game that need work. Overall, Alexander Zetterberg is a promising young forward with a strong offensive skill set and high hockey IQ. As he continues to adapt to the collegiate level and further develop his game, he has the potential to become a significant contributor for Boston University in the following years where his stock could rise. If not drafted, he could become a top college free agent to watch out for. (Josh Klicka)

Blake Steenerson - Winger - University of Vermont

Blake Steenerson’s draft year was back in 2023, though playing Minnesota High School Hockey and not putting up elite numbers led him to being undrafted. The following season, he joined the Sioux Falls Stampede, which was a tale of consistency and growth for his development that also led to him going undrafted as he put up 15 points in 47 games. While he may not have lit up the scoreboard, Steenerson proved himself as a reliable two-way forward with an impressive work ethic and strong defensive instincts. His offensive numbers may not have been eye-popping, but his ability to contribute in all areas of the ice made him a valued asset on both special teams and at even strength. This season, Steenerson has slowly transitioned to college hockey, playing at the University of Vermont, currently sitting at nine points in 20 games. Steenerson’s skating is one of his best assets. He’s an explosive skater with a quick first step, which allows him to separate from defenders and create space in transition while making a good first pass. Though not the flashiest player, he’s proficient at using his speed and vision to find open teammates and create offensive chances. Steenerson’s plays with a high compete level in all three zones, frequently engaging in battles along the boards, disrupting passing lanes, and finishing checks. His strong defensive play and willingness to block shots make him a valuable penalty killer, and his physicality on the forecheck ensures he’s always in the thick of the action. Though his offensive ceiling might be limited, Steenerson’s all-around game and compete qualities make a strong case for him to become a bottom-six player in the NHL. With continued development in his playmaking and offensive instincts, he has the potential to become a reliable depth forward. (Josh Klicka)

Rylan Brown - Defenseman - Michigan Tech University

Rylan Brown is an offensive defenseman currently playing for Michigan Tech University in the NCAA. He stands 6-foot-0 and 161 pounds. Prior to joining Michigan Tech, Brown played for the Okotoks Oilers in the AJHL during the 2023-24 season. He tallied 59 points (10 goals, 49 assists) over 58 games, showcasing his consistency and offensive talent. His junior career also included a stint with the Drayton Valley Thunder, before being traded to the Okotoks Oilers in the 2022-23 season, where he recorded 29 points in 54 games throughout the season. Brown is recognized for his offensive prowess as a defenseman, demonstrating solid puck-handling skills and the ability to contribute to his team's scoring. Much of this comes from him joining the rush and making impactful plays in this situation. His ability to contribute to the power play and generate scoring opportunities from the defense position will soon become a valuable asset for the Huskies as he continues to progress in college hockey. While adjusting to the increased pace and physicality of college hockey, his previous performances suggest a promising transition. Overall, Rylan Brown is a promising young defenseman with notable offensive upside. As he continues to develop at Michigan Tech, he has the potential to become an offensive, puck moving defenseman. This projects him as a depth piece and minor league recall. (Josh Klicka)

Kaden Shahan - Winger - University of Connecticut

Kaden Shahan is an undersized winger currently playing for the University of Connecticut. Before joining UConn, Shahan spent two seasons with the Sioux City Musketeers in the United States Hockey League (USHL). In the 2022-23 season, he recorded 20 goals and 11 assists over 55 games. The following season, he elevated his performance, with 39 goals and 57 points in 56 games. As a freshman at UConn in the 2024-25 season, Shahan has appeared in 22 games, contributing six goals and two assists for a total of eight points. He is still inching his way into NCAA hockey. Shahan is recognized for his high-energy play and goal-scoring ability. This happens by staying near the play of the puck. He excels in hard battle areas, demonstrating a willingness to engage physically despite average size. His skating is average but flourishes with high pace and intensity in each game. His offensive skills and compete suggest potential for future NHL opportunities as he continues to develop at the collegiate level. Can play as a dynamic forward with a proven scoring touch and relentless energy, however the lack of consistency is worrying for him in the upcoming 2025 NHL draft. As he continues to display his high-end compete, gains experience, and hones in on his skills at UConn, he has the potential to become a bottom-six forward in the NHL. (Josh Klicka)

Philippe Blais-Savoie - Defenseman - Colorado College

Philippe Blais-Savoie is a defensive defenseman currently playing for Colorado College in the NCAA. Before joining Colorado College, Blais-Savoie played two seasons with the Tri-City Storm in the United States Hockey League (USHL). In the 2022-23 season, he recorded 11 points in 61 games. The following season, he improved to 15 points in 55 games. As a freshman at Colorado College in the 2024-25 season, Blais-Savoie has appeared in 15 games, contributing three goals and five assists for a total of eight points. His early performance indicates a smooth transition to collegiate hockey, with the potential to develop further as he gains experience with his steady defensive impact. Blais-Savoie is recognized for his mobility and steady defensive presence. At 6-foot-0185 pounds, he skates well and, while his offensive skills are not considered anything special or NHL average, he has the ability to move the puck quickly out of his zone for quick transitions to offense for his team. As mentioned defensively, he is reliable and could serve effectively in penalty-killing situations. He is excellent on his gap control, closing off forwards vs rush attacks and transition. This stems from his good decision making on these plays, giving low-event chances against. Philippe Blais-Savoie possesses a solid defensive game with good puck movement. As he continues to develop at Colorado College, he has the potential to become a solid bottom pair defenseman in the NHL due to his low chances against on defense. (Josh Klicka)

Tanner Adams - Wing - Providence College

Adams is a hard-nosed, reliable scorer at every level. He was passed over in 2023 as one of the youngest players in the draft, two weeks off being eligible for 2024. He outperformed the large majority of his draft peers in the NCAA last season, boasting 21 points in 35 games and finished second in team scoring despite middle-six minutes. Nonetheless, he was passed over once again this past June. This season, he came out of the gates flying, leading the team in goals, assists, and points until Providence moved him down to a bottom-six role, where he has continued his production albeit slightly slowed. Despite his limited ice-time, he currently leads the team in goals and is one point shy of leading in points as well. Adams ties a grinder’s forechecking mentality with a pure goalscorer’s offensive instincts. He anticipates plays well offensively and defensively which allows him to be a PP and PK specialist. He projects as the type of player teams trade first round picks for at the deadline, a depth scoring piece who can be relied on in all scenarios. He’s debatably the best double overager of the entire draft. (Sean Boyd)

Will Felicio - Defensemen - Univ. of Michigan

Felicio is a puck-moving, smart two-way defenseman who has been playing well as a freshman this season. After a strong showing at the Hlinka-Gretzky the summer before last, he was stuffed into a third pairing role with Madison of the USHL before being moved to Waterloo, where he would once again struggle to produce given his limited ice time. He was passed over in the 2024 draft and has since joined the University of Michigan, where he’s not only climbed his way into a roster spot as a freshman, but into a top four role while being the highest producing U19 NCAA defenseman besides Cole Hutson. His consistency offensively has greatly improved and with smarter linemates, he’s now able to execute more complex plays than he could in a bottom of the lineup role in the USHL. His strong offensive instincts and defensive tendencies lend him to be a reliable defenseman for Michigan despite his age. He projects to be a third pairing defenseman with offensive upside in the NHL. (Sean Boyd)

Daniel Jencko - Wing - UMass

Jencko has been ticking the draft radar the last couple years, performing well internationally, in Sweden, and at the USHL level. However, this year could finally be the year he gets selected after a strong performance for Slovakia at the World Juniors and a solid freshman year for UMass. Jencko excels as a high energy guy thanks to his speed and physicality. He can be very successful working the net front on the powerplay and he has soft enough hands to finish off second chance opportunities in tight. Jencko is also an effective forechecker because of his speed and the consistency of his physicality. NHL scouts will probably wish he were bigger (6’0) given the kind of role he projects to play, but he’s shown enough progression playing at higher levels to be worthy of a draft pick. (Brock Otten)

USHL

Bruno Idzan - Wing - Lincoln Stars

Idzan started last year on the draft radar. Partially because it was a great story, as a Croatian born potential NHL selection, and partially because he had previously shown promise in the Swedish junior leagues. However, he had a poor year in Sweden and ended up falling off the radar. This year, he returned home to Croatia to play in the AlpsHL, where he was dominant. However, an opportunity to join Lincoln of the USHL arose around the new year and Idzan hasn’t looked back. As of writing this, he has the best point per game average in the entire league and has been a revelation for the Stars. He’s really pushing pace with his ability to build to a solid top speed; I wouldn’t call his first few steps explosive, but he builds well to create separation. He has shown a real nose for the net and an ability to find soft spots in coverage, getting open to utilize his quick release. Idzan has also shown great work ethic in the offensive end, helping to force turnovers with a quick stick and tenacity, although that same effort isn’t really replicated in the defensive end. Overall, Idzan has shown himself to be highly skilled and intelligent off the puck, two things that could make him a potential pro in North America. He recently committed to Wisconsin, and he has, unquestionably, put himself back on the map with his second half performance in the USHL. (Brock Otten)

Aidan Park - Center - Green Bay Gamblers

After an impressive season playing alongside Will Zellers (COL - 76th Overall, 2024) and Ryker Lee (2025 Draft Eligible) at Shattuck St. Mary’s last season, in addition to a strong showing at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup with four points in five games, Park was passed over in the draft, despite being ranked in the late rounds by a number of outlets. This season he’s shown off his skillset and a number of translatable qualities with Green Bay. Although still overshadowed offensively by teammate Will Zellers, he has displayed a strong combination of awareness at both ends of the ice and the vision to consistently generate offense off the rush. The University of Michigan commit has found himself among the league scoring leaders in the USHL all season. With a Jett Luchanko style of play, he projects as a third line center providing secondary scoring if he pans out. He’s a tempting option in the later rounds of the draft for a team needing more certainty in a late round prospect. (Sean Boyd)

Jack Kernan - Center - Des Moines Buccaneers

Kernan started last season in a bottom-six role with Des Moines and the year prior was passed over since he was still playing prep hockey in Minnesota. This season he has climbed his way into the top six and taken the reins of the Buccaneers as their leading scorer. Kernan makes expert use of his size for impressive puck protection and displays exemplary awareness and speed control offensively. He’s strong in every aspect of the game but his only truly high-level skill is his work ethic. He’s the hardest worker every shift on the ice, allowing him to make quite a smooth transition to Minnesota State next season. He projects as a bottom-six workhorse with strong instincts in the NHL. Although it is difficult to project second year eligibles still playing in the USHL, a team may take a swing on his robust skillset as early as the 4th or 5th round, and he could very well make it worth their risk. (Sean Boyd)

Nolan Roed - Center - Tri-City Storm

One of our highest ranked players (105th) to go unselected last year, we loved Roed based on what we saw at the USHL level and in the Minnesota high school loop. Playing in the USHL full time this season, Roed has consistently been one of the league’s best players and highest scorers. The St. Cloud State commit plays a mature game tailored to being a top end NCAA player, and perhaps a pro. He consistently looks to get to the middle of the ice, driving the middle and getting to the net. He’s under six feet, but he plays a power game and protects the puck well through traffic to help funnel pucks to the home plate area. His vision and playmaking ability have improved this year, with Roed showing an ability to alter his pace and be more poised with the puck, fighting to prolong possession along the wall. He’s also improved his defensive game to be a more consistent two-way player at the USHL level. While we aren’t likely to have him ranked as high as last year, we still like him enough to have him ranked again this year. (Brock Otten)

Jack Pechar - Center - Lincoln Stars

One of the USHL’s most improved players from a year ago, Pechar has consistently been among the league leaders in points per game. The big pivot is an intelligent and poised two-way player who also excels on the puck thanks to soft hands. He’s not the most dynamic skater, but he covers ground with big sweeping strides and protects the puck well using his size and hands. Pechar has proven this year to be one of those players who elevates the play of those around him thanks to how well rounded his game is and how poised with the puck he is. The Northeastern commit is also playing in his first year at center and given his pro frame and massive development leap, NHL teams have surely taken notice (look no further than his appearance on NHL Central Scouting’s midterm list). Depending on how his NCAA development goes, Pechar could easily be a future third line candidate for an NHL team down the road if he can continue to improve his skating. (Brock Otten)

Sam Laurila - Defense - Fargo Force

Not only was Laurila one of the youngest players eligible for the draft last year, but he was also relegated to a lesser role with the U.S. U18 team as part of the NTDP. As such, he really failed to stand out and was not suggested as a draft candidate by our U.S. scouts. This year, completely different story. Laurila has blossomed with a larger role in the USHL, emerging as one of the USHL’s top defenders as a 19-year-old. His overall profile is solid, making him an all situations, Swiss army knife on the back end. He skates well. He can move the puck. He can quarterback the powerplay with a good shot and vision. He initiates the breakout well and is poised with the puck. He competes in the defensive end. The University of North Dakota commit has really emerged as a top flight draft candidate; it would not be shocking to see his name called in the top 100, as one of the highest ranked re-entry candidates. (Brock Otten)

Finn McLaughlin - Defense - Muskegon Lumberjacks

While the offensive production that was prominent early in the season has dried up a bit, McLaughlin remains an interesting draft prospect in his second year of eligibility. He combines solid size (6-foot-2, 200+lbs) with excellent mobility. McLaughlin’s edgework is really strong, and this helps him evade pressure to start the breakout and with transitional defense. He can join or lead the rush, but that’s been less prevalent as the season has gone on. He has slipped into playing a bit of a safer game and it’s helped cut down on some offensive zone and neutral zone turnovers because his hands and creativity are not standout traits. Defensively, McLaughlin has the potential to be a real asset at higher levels because forwards have a difficult time shaking his coverage; again the mobility is impressive. A recent trade to Muskegon in the USHL will give McLaughlin a chance to repeat as Clark Cup champion, something scouts will have their eye on. It’s also worth noting that he captained Team USA at the World Junior A Challenge and was one of the more effective defenders at the event. McLaughlin isn’t likely to be more than a bottom pairing guy, but he could develop into excellent defensive depth after a few years at the University of Denver. (Brock Otten)

Artemi Nizameyev - Wing - Tri-City Storm

Nizameyev, a late born 2005 winger, was passed over last year in his first year of eligibility despite nearly operating at a point per game clip. The reason? He’s not big and he’s not a strong skater. The bad news? That’s still the case, making Nizameyev a long shot to be selected this time around. The good news, he’s upped his consistency, becoming a more physically engaged player to pair with his dynamic play creation ability. He has among the best hands in the entire USHL, allowing him to create space for himself without breakaway speed or explosiveness. If Nizameyev were to manage to improve his skating to be, even just average, he could possess significant offensive potential at the pro level. He’ll be attending Miami (Ohio) University and should be a three- or four-year guy before turning pro, unless his game translates quicker than expected. (Brock Otten)

Lukas Peterson - Defense - Green Bay Gamblers

One of the highest scoring defenders in the USHL this year, Peterson is a dynamic puck mover and powerplay quarterback. He’s not incredibly quick or explosive in straight lines, but he’s extremely agile thanks to his ability to execute c-cuts and work on his edges. He can really keep the puck on a string too, weaving through and around defenders to keep plays alive in the offensive end. However, his game will need refinement if he wants to be a successful pro defender. The University of Maine commit is your classic high risk, high reward kind of player. He’s confident as a puckhandler, but needs to pick his spots better to take liberties/chances. This is in all three zones too, as he can skate himself into trouble. Defensively, he tries to play bigger than his frame (5-foot-10, 170 pounds), but he can have a hard time consistently winning battles near the crease and along the wall to tie or pin attackers. Even with his tremendous production and his significant upside as an offensive defender, I would guess that NHL teams will want to see how his game translates to the NCAA level first before using a draft pick on him. (Brock Otten)

Matthew Desiderio - Defense - Dubuque Fighting Saints

One of the most improved players in the USHL this year, Desiderio has emerged as one of the league’s top two-way defenders. He moves impressively well for a 6-foot-3, 210-pound blueliner and he’s really gained confidence in his ability to carry the puck and get to the inside using his size/speed combination. He surprises defenders with creative moves to escape pressure and his vision with the puck is solid. For a guy among the league defenseman goal scoring leaders, he doesn’t have the kind of heavy point shot that you might expect; it’s more about well-timed pinches to get into the slot and quick wristers from the point. Defensively, his mobility and reach give him a real advantage. He’s physical when he needs to be and minds his gaps well. Basically, Desiderio has improved to the point where an NHL team could see enough upside in him to select him this year in his final year of eligibility. There’s a really solid foundation here. (Brock Otten)

Bobby Cowan - Wing - Madison Capitals

In his first full year in the USHL, Cowan has been a revelation for Madison, who acquired his rights from Omaha in the summer. He may not have elite physical tools; he’s not a truly dynamic skater and he’s not blessed with terrific size, but he’s been highly effective and consistent thanks to high end skill, high end processing ability, and an excellent compete level. Equal parts goal scorer and playmaker, it is the playmaking side of his game that has grown a ton this year. Previously known as more of a “sniper,” thanks to a deadly release, Cowan’s vision and passing ability has stood out equally with Madison. He is excellent at spinning off checks or using delays to help him survey the ice, where he often threads the needle to slot or cross ice. Cowan also works hard off the puck, as a forechecker, as a boards player, and as a crease crasher. This is a young player that wants the puck on his stick; he wants to drive play. Previously committed to St. Thomas, Cowan has altered his plans in hopes of catching on with a more prestigious program. He’ll be a catch for whoever secures his rights. This is also the kind of player NHL teams could take a chance on in the later rounds in hopes that he continues to blossom and mature physically to give him a better chance of being a solid pro. (Brock Otten)

Giovanni DiGiulian - Center/Wing - Lincoln Stars

One of our highest ranked Tier 2 players for the draft last year (142nd), we loved DiGiulian’s speed and scoring ability, but had concerns about his ability to play through contact and complete game. We felt those issues would get ironed out at higher levels, but obviously NHL scouts were concerned enough to bypass him. This year, playing his first year in the USHL, DiGiulian got off to a slow start, but since November, he has been one of the highest scoring and most consistent players in the league. This is especially true in the last few months, since the arrival of Bruno Izdan, as the two have formed excellent chemistry. He is now using his speed more effectively without the puck, developing into an excellent forechecker. He’s also playing through contact to get to the net and to find soft spots in the home plate area to use his shot. The middle six scoring line upside is still very much present, even if we don’t see him as a center at the higher levels. Cornell is going to be a great program for him given how well they develop defensive tendencies. The coaching staff with the Big Red will really help him harness his talents to make him a better pro prospect. (Brock Otten)

Giacomo Martino - Wing - Sioux City Musketeers

A formerly hyped prospect out of Ontario, (and younger brother of NCAA standout Ayrton Martino), the light bulb has finally gone on for Giacomo this season in the USHL, making him one of the highest scoring players in the league. In his last year of draft eligibility, the Northeastern commit has improved his strength and conditioning to make him better at playing through contact and thus, more consistent offensively. He’s also become more of a dual threat offensively by improving his shot and ability to work to the inside. He’s always been a great playmaker and the kind of player who can increase the pace with quick decisions, but the improved confidence in his shot has done wonders for his game. The real issue is that Martino is not the dynamic skater that his brother Ayrton is. Giacomo still needs to upgrade his first step quickness to improve his transitional play for the higher levels. Even with the production improvements, he’s probably a draft long shot, with teams preferring to see how his time at Northeastern goes before committing to him. (Brock Otten)

Brendan McMorrow - Center - Waterloo Blackhawks

After being relegated to the fourth line on last year’s U.S. NTDP U18 team, McMorrow’s draft stock really took a hit. He showed some positives as a high energy, two-way winger, but his offensive production and contribution were nearly non-existent. This year with Waterloo, he shifted back to center and has played a key role for the Blackhawks, allowing McMorrow to shine in other ways. He’s shown that he can handle playing center and is demonstrating greater vision and off puck anticipation than he had during his two years with the NTDP. He’s still finding success as a forechecker, as a tough defensive player, and as a north/south crease crasher, but the improved on-puck play and finishing ability have really altered his projection, putting him back on the draft radar. He’s still not going to win any skills competitions. He’s not going to be a high scoring player at the higher levels. He’s also not a truly dynamic skater; he builds speed well North/South but can lose it when he needs to alter his path. However, there is a path for him to make the NHL in a checking line role, especially if he can continue to blossom as a center. (Brock Otten)

John Stout - Defense - Madison Capitals

We had Stout ranked 190th for the draft last year after a standout performance in the Minnesota high school loop, however, we did also have concerns over his lack of a true standout or projectable skill. This year, playing in the USHL full time with Madison, Stout has been a standout in the defensive end. The offensive production hasn’t been quite at the level we might have expected, but he’s playing exceptionally well defensively, which earned him a place on the U.S. team for the World Junior A Challenge. Stout has a pro frame at 6-foot-2, 200+lbs, he’s fairly mobile, and he’s quite intelligent. He’ll probably make a great three- or four-year NCAA player at Wisconsin, with his versatility. Stout does show enough flashes running the point on the backend to suggest that his offensive game could have more upside. As is, the improvements made to his defensive consistency could make him an attractive option for NHL teams late in the draft. (Brock Otten)

Kam Hendrickson - Goaltender - Waterloo Blackhawks

Hendrickson shredded the Minnesota high school loop last year, rarely allowing goals, leading him to be named the Frank Brimsek award winner. He even had a cup of coffee in the USHL and performed well. Yet, because of his lack of size, he was not selected by an NHL team last year. This year, he’s played the entire season in the USHL and has been one of the league’s top netminders. He consistently competes to make saves. Simply put, Hendrickson never gives up on a play and he plays aggressively in his crease to try to fight for sight lines; a necessity given his lack of size. He also is an excellent play tracker whose technique is already advanced; it’s rare to see him caught out of position. Yet, one of my biggest concerns last year when I wrote this piece remains an area that needs further growth. And that is that Hendrickson still isn’t as quick or agile as you’d like to see for a smaller netminder. His pushes still lack significant power, and he can struggle to get to where he needs to quickly. As he moves up the levels and the pace increases, this could hinder his performance. That said, Hendrickson will head to UConn next year and he’s going to have several years to improve his strength to improve his quickness. The other things he possesses are more natural; instinctual. Whether he’s drafted now or not, at some point he likely lands on the NHL radar in the future.

Caleb Heil - Goaltender - Madison Capitals

Last season, Heil entered the year as not only an expected draft selection, but the potential to be one of the top goaltenders selected. However, his draft year was a tough one for him. It started with a weak performance at the Hlinka/Gretzky and then spiraled into an even weaker one with a rebuilding Sioux Falls team. He’s lightning quick in the crease, but he really struggled with his play tracking and positioning, consistently letting in softer goals. This year, he’s been considerably better playing for a good Madison team. He also rebounded with a strong international performance for the United States at the World Junior A Challenge, ending the tournament on the all-star team. Perhaps what was most impressive about that performance is that Heil was a consistently strong presence, making the saves he needed to for a US team that prevented a lot of high-quality chances against. This has been the case for Heil in the USHL too; he’s really cleaned things up and been able to limit those weaker goals by improving his positioning. He’s still ultra quick, but he’s controlling his pushes and body more effectively. The real test for Heil, a UND commit, will be in this year’s USHL playoffs. NHL scouts will have a close eye on him there to see how he performs under greater pressure. A good Clark Cup performance could easily help him get drafted this time around. (Brock Otten)

Caeden Herrington - Defense - Lincoln Stars

Similar to John Stout, we had Herrington ranked as a late round selection last year thanks to his pro frame, good mobility, and standout year in Tier 2. Herrington starred for the Holderness School in New Hampshire, as part of the New England prep loop. But like Stout, we had concerns that his game was a bit too vanilla; that he lacked a standout trait that would carry him to the pros. This season, playing for Lincoln, Herrington has emerged as one of the USHL’s top two-way defenders and it is altering his pro projection. As of writing this, Herrington leads the USHL in goal scoring; his point shot and off puck instincts in the offensive zone are excellent. He’s also showing well in the defensive end, combining his good mobility with improved physicality to close gaps quickly and shut down rush attackers. With an improving two-way skill set from the right side, Herrington has to be considered one of the better defenders in their second year of draft eligibility. At this point, he will be a lock for our final draft rankings. (Brock Otten)

US High School

Brooks Cullen - Center - Moorhead HS (MN)

It’s pretty rare for a high schooler to be on the radar as a re-entry, which makes Cullen unique. However, he was one of the youngest eligible players last year (with a September 13th birthday) and comes from a terrific hockey family (the son of Matt Cullen). This has given his breakout campaign as the captain of Moorhead more clout. The Michigan State commit is a well-rounded pivot not unlike his father. He’s a high IQ guy who takes care of the puck and makes plays in all three zones. Cullen finishes off plays well with a heavy wrister but also excels as a playmaker in transition with soft hands and good vision. While assessing skating is always difficult at the high school level, Cullen looks to have a quick burst at this level, giving him the ability to break away and create separation from defenders. The Mr. Hockey candidate is bound to draw a lot of NHL draft attention this year given his pedigree and improvement, even if he remains a long-term project (like any high school player). (Brock Otten)

2024 NHL DRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON TOP 100 – Celebrini sits comfortably on top – Demidov and Parekh among risers in ranking – Strong defense group defines this draft class

Brock Otten — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:58:41 +0000

It’s time to update and expand our 2024 NHL Draft rankings. Since our preliminary ranking in December, we’ve passed some major events on the scouting calendar, like the World Juniors, CHL Top Prospect’s Game, World Junior A Challenge, and the USA Hockey All American Game.

Macklin Celebrini still sits comfortably at the top of our rankings. Not only has he continued to be a difference maker for Boston University, but he was also a solid contributor at the World Juniors for an underwhelming Canadian team, an impressive feat for a double underager. In our opinion, he is unquestionably the top prospect available this year and is the one player we view as a near surefire high impact player at the NHL level.

One player moving up our ranking inside the top ten is Ivan Demidov. While ice time issues have limited his impact at the KHL level, he has been an absolute monster at the MHL level and in a draft that we feel lacks high end upside, he stands out as a potential difference maker. One player falling inside of our top ten is Cole Eiserman. While the goal scoring ability is unquestionably impressive, we’ve been left wanting more from the rest of his game and feel that his development is showing signs of plateauing.

Saginaw defenseman Zayne Parekh is another big-time mover and shaker for us as he pushes his way inside the top ten. At this point, his production and offensive upside is too vast to ignore. Yes, there are questions regarding his defensive game. Yes, there are questions about how he fits into an NHL system given Saginaw’s unique modern approach. However, the skill and sense are so high end that we believe the reward outweighs the risk.

Other movers and shakers include Jett Luchanko (40th to 18th), Alfons Freij (32nd to 21st), Harrison Brunicke (HM to 25th), and Dom Badinka (58th to 28th). Luchanko is a speedy, playmaking pivot who brings consistent effort in all three zones. As he bulks up, he should be able to become a more consistent point producer. Freij has been terrific internationally this year for the Swedish U18 team and is starting to remind us of Tom Willander in regard to his steady presence on the ice at both ends. Brunicke is a very mobile, right-handed shot defender with size who remains a work in progress. He flashes high end skill and upside in the defensive end, and we believe that he is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of. Dom Badinka has a similar profile to Freij in the sense that he has a very projectable frame and skill set. He has been steadily improving in the SHL this year with Malmo and the Czech blueliner projects as an all situations top four, right shot blueliner.

Overall, 2024 is still holding strong as a quality draft for defenders. In fact, 14 of our first round graded players are defenseman. On the other hand, the strength of this goaltending crop remains to be seen. OHL netminders Carter George and Ryerson Leenders remain our top ranked goalies and the only ones inside of our Top 70. There are others pushing up the list (like NTDP netminder Nick Kempf and WHL re-entry Lukas Matecha), but it’s not looking like the ideal year to use a high pick on a stopper.

In the coming weeks, expect to see a podcast on our new YT channel (here), where Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, Associate Director of Scouting, Derek Neumeier, and Director of Video Scouting, Josh Bell, debate the midseason list and provide some insight into why certain players are ranked where they are.

RK	Name	POS	TEAM	GP	G/GAA	A/SV%	TP	PIM	HT/WT	DOB
1	Macklin Celebrini	C	Boston University (HE)	25	22	19	41	10	6-0/190	13-Jun-06
2	Sam Dickinson	D	London (OHL)	52	14	39	53	24	6-3/195	7-Jun-06
3	Ivan Demidov	RW	SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)	23	20	25	45	16	5-11/170	10-Dec-05
4	Anton Silayev	D	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	57	3	8	11	8	6-7/210	11-Apr-06
5	Cayden Lindstrom	C	Medicine Hat (WHL)	32	27	19	46	66	6-4/215	3-Feb-06
6	Berkly Catton	C	Spokane (WHL)	49	38	44	82	37	5-11/170	14-Jan-06
7	Artyom Levshunov	D	Michigan State (B1G)	30	8	20	28	40	6-2/200	28-Oct-05
8	Konsta Helenius	C	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	40	12	19	31	6	5-11/180	11-May-06
9	Cole Eiserman	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	37	38	22	60	28	6-0/195	29-Aug-06
10	Zayne Parekh	D	Saginaw (OHL)	49	25	49	74	40	6-0/180	15-Feb-06
11	Carter Yakemchuk	D	Calgary (WHL)	48	24	29	53	95	6-3/190	29-Sep-05
12	Tij Iginla	C	Kelowna (WHL)	48	35	28	63	25	6-0/185	1-Aug-06
13	Liam Greentree	RW	Windsor (OHL)	46	28	41	69	25	6-2/200	1-Jan-06
14	Trevor Connelly	LW	Tri-City (USHL)	34	17	31	48	40	6-1/160	28-Feb-06
15	Zeev Buium	D	Denver (NCHC)	26	7	27	34	16	6-0/185	7-Dec-05
16	Michael Brandsegg Nygard	RW	Mora (Allsvenskan)	32	6	7	13	14	6-1/195	5-Oct-05
17	Adam Jiříček	D	HC Plzen (Czechia)	19	0	1	1	2	6-2/175	28-Jun-06
18	Jett Luchanko	C	Guelph (OHL)	50	17	37	54	32	5-11/185	21-Aug-06
19	Matvei Shuravin	D	CSKA Moskva (KHL)	22	0	7	7	26	6-2/170	22-Mar-06
20	Michael Hage	C	Chicago (USHL)	37	21	23	44	35	6-1/190	14-Apr-06
21	Alfons Freij	D	Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)	33	11	15	26	12	6-1/190	12-Feb-06
22	Emil Hemming	RW	TPS (Fin-Liiga)	35	7	4	11	0	6-1/200	27-Jun-06
23	Ryder Ritchie	RW	Prince Albert (WHL)	34	13	18	31	16	6-0/175	3-Aug-06
24	Sacha Boisvert	C	Muskegon (USHL)	41	27	18	45	42	6-2/180	17-Mar-06
25	Harrison Brunicke	D	Kamloops (WHL)	46	10	11	21	45	6-3/185	8-May-06
26	Andrew Basha	LW	Medicine Hat (WHL)	47	23	44	67	32	6-0/185	8-Nov-05
27	Henry Mews	D	Ottawa (OHL)	46	8	34	42	46	6-0/185	9-Mar-06
28	Dom Badinka	D	Malmo (Swe J20)	15	2	10	12	39	6-3/185	27-Nov-05
29	Beckett Sennecke	RW	Oshawa (OHL)	46	19	26	45	53	6-2/180	28-Jan-06
30	Igor Chernyshov	LW	MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)	18	10	14	24	8	6-2/190	30-Nov-05
31	E.J. Emery	D	USN U18 (USDP)	41	0	10	10	51	6-3/185	30-Mar-06
32	Leo Sahlin Wallenius	D	Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)	34	7	23	30	30	6-0/180	10-Apr-06
33	Dean Letourneau	C	St. Andrew's (CHS-O)	14	14	11	25	6	6-7/210	21-Feb-06
34	Yegor Surin	C	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	37	19	27	46	104	6-1/190	1-Aug-06
35	Adam Jecho	C	Edmonton (WHL)	38	15	17	32	18	6-5/200	24-Mar-06
36	Maxim Massé	RW	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	51	26	26	52	16	6-2/190	7-Apr-06
37	Lucas Pettersson	C	MoDo Hockey (Swe J20)	36	20	23	43	38	5-11/170	17-Apr-06
38	Charlie Elick	D	Brandon (WHL)	51	4	19	23	47	6-3/200	17-Jan-06
39	Raoul Boilard	C	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	52	21	31	52	32	6-2/190	7-Jan-06
40	Matvei Gridin	RW	Muskegon (USHL)	41	20	30	50	28	6-1/185	1-Mar-06
41	Nikita Artamonov	LW	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	48	7	15	22	12	5-11/185	17-Nov-05
42	Jesse Pulkkinen	D	JYP (Fin-U20)	18	11	17	28	47	6-6/215	27-Dec-04
43	Leon Muggli	D	Zug (Sui-NL)	4	0	2	2	4	6-0/165	9-Jul-06
44	Teddy Stiga	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	41	24	25	49	26	5-10/155	5-Apr-06
45	Aron Kiviharju	D	HIFK (Fin-Liiga)	7	1	1	2	0	5-10/165	25-Jan-06
46	Miguel Marques	RW	Lethbridge (WHL)	50	22	37	59	47	5-11/170	8-Mar-06
47	John Mustard	C	Waterloo (USHL)	39	22	18	40	22	6-0/185	16-Aug-06
48	Lukas Fischer	D	Sarnia (OHL)	52	4	22	26	50	6-4/180	6-Sep-06
49	Simon Zether	C	Rogle (Swe J20)	17	11	16	27	25	6-3/185	18-Oct-05
50	Luke Misa	C	Mississauga (OHL)	51	21	46	67	8	5-10/175	25-Nov-05
51	Sebastian Soini	D	Ilves (Fin-U20)	8	0	0	0	8	6-2/195	10-Jun-06
52	Carson Wetsch	RW	Calgary (WHL)	49	19	20	39	53	6-2/185	4-May-06
53	Terik Parascak	RW	Prince George (WHL)	52	31	42	73	37	5-11/180	28-May-06
54	Christian Humphreys	C	USN U18 (USDP)	35	15	25	40	14	5-11/170	4-Feb-06
55	Cole Hutson	D	USN U18 (USDP)	41	11	26	37	44	5-10/160	28-Jun-06
56	Cole Beaudoin	C	Barrie (OHL)	48	23	25	48	23	6-2/200	24-Apr-06
57	Marek Vanacker	LW	Brantford (OHL)	51	27	34	61	41	6-0/165	12-Apr-06
58	Stian Solberg	D	Vålerenga (Nor)	34	3	9	12	12	6-2/200	29-Dec-06
59	Herman Traff	RW	HV71 (Swe J20)	22	11	7	18	69	6-3/195	31-Dec-05
60	Kamil Bednarik	C	USN U18 (USDP)	41	18	25	43	40	6-0/185	26-May-06
61	Tomáš Galvas	D	Bili Tygri Liberec (Czechia)	26	2	4	6	6	5-10/150	11-Feb-06
62	Carter George	G	Owen Sound (OHL)	41	3.09	0.914	-	-	6-0/160	20-May-06
63	Ryerson Leenders	G	Mississauga (OHL)	38	3.19	0.909	-	-	6-1/175	1-Jun-06
64	Tanner Howe	LW	Regina (WHL)	52	24	38	62	48	5-11/180	28-Nov-05
65	Colton Roberts	D	Vancouver (WHL)	50	7	17	24	45	6-4/195	8-Jun-06
66	Ben Danford	D	Oshawa (OHL)	51	1	30	31	21	6-0/175	6-Feb-06
67	Eriks Mateiko	LW	Saint John (QMJHL)	40	19	19	38	18	6-4/210	18-Nov-05
68	Daniil Ustinkov	D	ZSC (Sui-NL)	18	0	1	1	0	6-0/200	26-Aug-06
69	Veeti Vaisanen	D	KooKoo (Fin-Liiga)	40	2	7	9	12	6-0/175	15-Feb-06
70	Clarke Caswell	C	Swift Current (WHL)	51	16	37	53	14	5-11/170	2-Feb-06
71	Jakub Fibigr	D	Mississauga (OHL)	44	6	20	26	33	6-0/170	22-Jul-06
72	Ondrej Kos	LW	KOOVEE (Fin-Liiga)	14	3	2	5	8	6-1/150	7-Mar-06
73	Sam O'Reilly	RW	London (OHL)	52	15	30	45	24	6-1/175	30-Mar-06
74	Jack Berglund	C	Färjestad BK (Swe J20)	37	14	18	32	18	6-3/210	10-Apr-06
75	Linus Eriksson	C	Djurgardens IF (Swe J20)	24	5	16	21	8	6-0/185	23-Mar-06
76	Tarin Smith	D	Everett (WHL)	54	7	30	37	45	6-1/175	24-Mar-06
77	Nick Kempf	G	USN U18 (USDP)	22	3.02	0.901			6-2/190	1-Mar-06
78	Melvin Fernstrom	RW	Örebro HK (Swe J20)	38	26	28	54	26	6-1/185	28-Feb-06
79	Alexander Zetterberg	C	Örebro HK J20	35	19	27	46	10	5-9/160	27-Apr-06
80	Spencer Gill	D	Rimouski (QMJHL)	50	9	23	32	50	6-3/180	17-Aug-06
81	Kevin He	LW	Niagara (OHL)	51	26	18	44	47	5-11/185	30-Apr-06
82	Aatos Koivu	C	TPS (Fin-U20)	23	15	14	29	28	6-0/165	22-Jun-06
83	Will Skahan	D	USN U18 (USDP)	40	2	7	9	63	6-4/210	14-May-06
84	Justin Poirier	RW	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	52	40	20	60	58	5-8/185	4-Sep-06
85	Maxmilian Curran	C	Tri-City (WHL)	40	5	27	32	25	6-3/190	27-Aug-06
86	Tory Pitner	D	Youngstown (USHL)	33	7	14	21	34	6-1/185	6-Mar-06
87	Lukas Matecha	G	Tri-City (WHL)	29	3.14	0.910			6-3/195	21-Mar-05
88	Brodie Ziemer	RW	USN U18 (USDP)	41	20	22	42	14	5-10/190	22-Feb-06
89	Niilopekka Muhonen	D	KalPa (Fin U20)	25	4	6	10		6-4/185	28-Feb-06
90	Anthony Romani	D	North Bay (OHL)	51	44	40	84	16	6-0/180	12-Jul-05
91	Julius Miettinen	RW	Everett (WHL)	53	22	24	46	30	6-3/205	20-Jan-06
92	Luca Marrelli	D	Oshawa (OHL)	50	2	38	40	14	6-1/185	4-Oct-05
93	Filip Sitar	C	Malmo (Swe J20)	33	12	31	43	10	5-11/175	29-Jun-05
94	Noel Fransen	D	Färjestad BK (Swe J20)	36	17	21	38	16	6-0/185	7-Dec-05
95	William Zellers	LW	Shattuck St. Marys (USHS-Prep)	43	41	43	84	20	5-10/165	4-Apr-06
96	Gabriel Eliasson	D	HV71 J20	27	0	3	3	81	6-6/205	9-Sep-06
97	Kim Saarinen	G	HPK (Fin-U20)	22	2.34	0.918			6-4/180	22-Jul-06
98	Max Vilen	D	Malmo (Swe J20)	39	1	12	13	8	6-2/200	29-Jun-06
99	Gabriel Frasca	C	Kingston (OHL)	26	9	9	18	10	6-0/170	18-Feb-06
100	Harrison Meneghin	G	Lethbridge (WHL)	41	2.46	0.922			6-3/165	13-Sep-06
HM	Tanner Adams	RW	Providence (NCAA)	27	5	12	17	2	5-11/185	2-Sep
HM	Alexandre Blais	C	Rimouski (QMJHL)	53	18	48	66	30	5-10/155	14-Nov-05
HM	Viggo Gustavsson	D	HV71 (Swe J20)	33	1	10	11	38	6-2/195	11-Sep-06
HM	Andrei Krutov	LW	Chaika Nizhny Novgorod (MHL)	35	15	24	39	10	5-11/175	25-Apr-06
HM	Darels Uljanskis	D	AIK (Swe J20)	35	7	16	23	14	6-1/185	25-Aug-06
HM	Pavel Moysevich	G	SKA St. Petersburg (VHL)	19	2.31	0.927			6-5/175	29-Sep-04
HM	Ondrej Becher	C	Prince George (WHL)	42	19	40	59	32	6-1/175	22-Feb-04
HM	Veit Oswald	RW	EHC Munchen (DEL)	32	8	4	12	0	6-1/165	31-Aug-04
HM	Nathan Villeneuve	C	Sudbury (OHL)	47	18	21	39	52	6-0/185	13-Apr-06
HM	Petr Sikora	C	HC Ocelari Trinec (Cze U20)	27	12	21	33	26	5-11/170	2-Jan-06
HM	Oskar Vuollet	C	Skelleftea AIK (Swe J20)	32	17	24	41	6	5-10/170	3-Dec-05
HM	Kenta Isogai	F	Wenatchee (WHL)	49	25	48	73	22	5-11/155	28-Aug-04
HM	Marcus Kearsey	D	Charlottetown (QMJHL)	51	5	32	37	14	5-11/170	17-03-06
HM	Nate Misskey	D	Victoria (WHL	40	6	26	32	52	6-3/210	1-Dec-05
HM	Thomas Desruisseaux	C	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	52	10	34	44	16	5-11/160	10-Mar-06
HM	Jonathan Morello	C	St. Michaels (OJHL)	44	23	27	50	20	6-1/175	31-Jul-06
HM	Kieron Walton	LW	Sudbury (OHL)	47	15	19	34	12	6-5/205	22-Apr-06
HM	Adam Kleber	D	Lincoln (USHL)	33	5	13	18	20	6-5/205	24-Mar-06
HM	Riley Patterson	C	Barrie (OHL)	49	18	27	45	4	6-0/175	22-Mar-06
HM	Eemil Vinni	G	JoKP (Fin-Liiga)	27	2.5	0.9	-	-	6-2/285	18-Dec-06

2024 NHL DRAFT: World Junior A Challenge Review – 26 Scouting Profiles with video

Brock Otten — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 15:24:04 +0000

For the first time in over a decade, the two Canadian teams faced off in the final of the World Junior A Challenge recently. The last time it happened was 2011 when, ironically, Canada West (led by Alex Kerfoot, Colton Parayko, and Troy Stecher) defeated Canada East (led by Devin Shore and Mackenzie Weegar), the same result of this year’s event. The gold medal victory is a huge coup for Canada West after last year’s disappointment, when they entered the medal round as the top seed before losing in both the semi finals and the bronze medal game.

For those unfamiliar with the tournament, the WJAC is an annual U20 event hosted by the CJHL (Canadian Junior Hockey League), in which Canada enters two teams of the country’s best tier two players; Canada West and Canada East. Canada West incorporates players from the AJHL, MJHL, and other Western junior leagues. Canada East incorporates players from the OJHL, GOJHL, CCHL, and other Maritime and Quebec leagues. Previously BCHL players participated as part of Canada West, but that has not been the case the last two inclinations after the BCHL left the CJHL to separate from Hockey Canada. The United States also sends a team composed of USHL stars, while the remaining teams are filled out by other countries, most recently Sweden and Slovakia (or Latvia in 2022).

The event is one of the most underrated scouting events on the calendar with many former NHL players taking part. In recent years, Cale Makar and Devon Levi rose to fame with their performances in the WJAC. Just last year, Tom Willander began his ascent up the draft rankings following a terrific performance for Sweden, helping them capture bronze.

Which potential NHL draft selections participated this year and how did they perform? Read on to find out.

Rylan Brown
(Photo by Chad Goddard)

Canada West

Rylan Brown - Defense

Brown, the son of former NHL defender Sean Brown, is a Michigan Tech commit who is in his second year of draft eligibility. He entered last year with a fair amount of hype after a terrific 17 year old season in the AJHL in 2021/22, but ultimately failed to meet those expectations and went undrafted. He returned to the AJHL this year and has been one of the league’s top defenders. Brown was one of Canada West’s most effective defenders at this event too. He helped quarterback the powerplay and his strong mobility and puck skill were on display. He has really quick feet and he can help initiate the breakout or keep pucks in at the line. Defensively, he’s certainly a different kind of defender than his father, but his mobility can be an asset when defending in transition. It’s definitely possible that he has put himself back on the map as a re-entry candidate this year.

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Logan Sawyer - Wing/Center

One of the higher profile first time draft eligible players on either Canada team at this event, Sawyer met high expectations by playing his best hockey in the medal round in helping Canada West capture gold. A Providence College commit, Sawyer has been excellent for the Brooks Bandits (AJHL) this season as one of the league’s leading scorers. Originally from Ontario (Sawyer played minor hockey with the Vaughan Kings and was teammates with OHL’ers Sam O’Reilly and Kaden Pitre), Sawyer decided to head out West for his NHL draft year. While he has played both wing and center this year for Brooks, his skill set does look destined for the wing, even if he did play mostly center at this event. I thought early on at this tournament, his game was too perimeter oriented and he mainly operated as a high volume shooter who simply looked to get pucks on net whenever he had possession. But as the tournament progressed, we saw him gain confidence and show more poise as a play creator who looked to drive the middle and use his size to prolong possession and play through contact. His shot definitely has zip and he also clearly has the skill to create his own chances, giving him solid upside as a goal scorer at the next level. The skating looks only average, but he does use his size to protect the puck well and can be a difference maker in transition because of this. Sawyer looked every part an NHL draft selection, perhaps even inside the Top 100.

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Ryan Zaremba - Center

While I’m not necessarily convinced that Zaremba is a true draft candidate this year, he definitely was impressive for Canada West at this event. The undersized pivot is really quick and this makes him dynamic in transition as he consistently looks to push the pace. He blends skill and pace well and showed heart/determination by attacking the middle of the ice despite clearly lacking in size/strength. The Minnesota-Duluth commit has been excellent for Sherwood Park this year (AJHL) and looks like the type of player who could have a ton of success at the NCAA level with his speed and playmaking ability. I came into this event not knowing much about him, but found myself consistently taking note of positive plays he made with the puck to generate zone time or create scoring opportunities.

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Diego Johnson - Wing

Another Sherwood Park (AJHL) player, Johnson was one of the youngest players at this event (thanks to an early September 2006 birthday). While the Wisconsin commit did not hit the scoresheet very often, he was often noticeable for his play away from the puck and high energy approach. He forechecked hard. He backchecked hard. He battled near the crease and kept pucks alive down low. He was a consistent physical presence. He didn’t have a ton of opportunity to showcase his skill with the puck or overall offensive upside, but he did show enough to have my Western scouts circle back to him in the second half this year.

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Matthew Van Blaricom - Wing

One of the players who caught my eye the most at this tournament. Van Blaricom plays for the Humboldt Broncos of the SJHL, who have had some players drafted into the NHL. A Michigan Tech commit, Van Blaricom plays under Canada West coach (and former Los Angeles King top prospect) Scott Barney. He’s well over a point per game for Humboldt this year as an ‘06 and showed that he deserves serious consideration for this year’s NHL draft. From start to finish at the WJAC, Van Blaricom was one of Canada West’s most effective players. He brought physicality. He led the team in goal scoring, including two in the gold medal game. He’s one of those guys that just has that “IT” factor. Van Blaricom is not the most individually skilled player on the ice. He’s not the quickest. But, he processes the game really well and brings a consistent energy level to get the most out of his skill set. After watching him at this event, I circled back to watch some of his action with Humboldt and his skill/creativity shows better in the SJHLl in comparison to the WJAC; he simply looks too good for that level. I could easily see Van Blaricom developing into a Michael Bunting type of player at the next level if his skating can continue to evolve.

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Canada East

Dawson Labre - Goaltender

Ignoring a disastrous gold medal game, Labre deserves a ton of credit for helping Canada East earn a silver medal. His performance in the round robin portion brought back memories of Devon Levi’s from a few years ago. I would have definitely selected him over Roest for the tournament’s top goaltender. A CCHL netminder (with Smith Falls) in his final year of NHL draft eligibility (as a 2004 born), Labre was not drafted into the QMJHL and does not have an NCAA commitment, but he definitely put scouts on notice at the WJAC’s. The 6’3 netminder was at his best when he was aggressive in challenging shooters to maximize his size, and at his worst when he got caught deep in his net (like several goals in the medal round). His rebound control definitely needs to improve too. However, he, largely, showed great play tracking and athleticism to help Canada East pull off some upsets at the tournament. Is he truly a draft candidate? I’m not sure. Realistically, he’d have to lead Smith Falls (who currently are in first place) to a Centennial Cup (CJHL Championship) to even be in the conversation. However, he definitely deserved to be mentioned in this piece.

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Jonathan Morello - Center

Like Logan Sawyer, Morello entered this event as Canada East’s top draft eligible player and he largely met those expectations. The St. Michael’s Buzzers forward and Clarkson commit showcased his excellent skating ability, ending the tournament with a point per game. He shows attention to detail away from the puck; his size and length (at 6’3) helps him to be a disruptive force on the forecheck and backcheck. NHL scouts are definitely going to be enamored with his size and speed combination, similar to Jonathan Castagna last year. I’ll definitely try to circle back to Morello later this year and try to catch a St. Michael’s game live in the second half (with my region being Ontario). What’s the offensive upside? Hard to tell at this point. But, the athletic tools are very intriguing.

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Carsen Lloyd - Defense

Lloyd is an interesting case. A late born 2005, Lloyd is actually OHL property of the Brantford Bulldogs. Originally a high selection of the London Knights, he was traded to Brantford as part of the Ryan Winterton trade last year. However, he failed to make the Bulldogs this year and eventually found his way to the OJHL with Georgetown, where he has been one of the best defenders in tier two in Ontario. Because he has played in the OHL, Lloyd is not eligible for the NCAA, meaning that he’ll have to continue to grind to make the OHL…perhaps with another OHL franchise if Brantford is not going to give him another chance. Lloyd’s bread and butter is his point shot and that was on display at the WJAC’s, where he scored three goals. He quarterbacked the powerplay, where his shot is obviously a big weapon. But he also moves the puck well and can hold the line effectively. Defensively, he was up and down. I wish he were a bit better skater given his lack of high end size. But, he’s definitely someone to watch moving forward to see what happens with his OHL rights.

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United States

Trevor Connelly - Wing

It was another great International performance for Connelly, who followed up his strong showing at the Hlinka/Gretzky in the summer with a strong showing at the WJAC. He capped off the tournament with a four goal game in the bronze medal game against Sweden, helping the United States capture bronze. Say what you will about his play away from the puck and occasional poor puck management, however he is a dynamic offensive player. The speed and skill combination gives him among the highest offensive upside of any player in the draft this year. He is the very definition of a quick strike player because of his first step quickness and ability to explode off his edges. Additionally, when you think you have him boxed in, his hands create space for himself. With Tri-City sitting firmly in the middle of the USHL standings, I’m really hoping that the U.S. decides to add Connelly to their U18 roster this year as a non NTDP player. Given how outstanding he has been Internationally this year, they would be crazy not to.

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Mac Swanson - Center

A returning player on this U.S. WJAC roster despite being a 2006 born, Swanson ended up leading the tournament in assists with nine. He’s such a crafty and intelligent playmaker. His vision with the puck and overall passing touch/sense/precision is among the best in this draft class. I also continue to admire his effort to try to work between the dots despite being so undersized. All that said, I do have major concerns about his ability to transition to the NHL level. He’s just so undersized (at 5’7) and the skating ability is far from dynamic. Even at this current moment, he’s at his best on the powerplay where he gets more room to operate and can survey the ice from the half wall without intense pressure. Due to the fact that he’s not an electric skater, his pace can be lacking too. I have no doubt that he will continue to produce offensively in college and that he can be a long term pro in some capacity. However, without significant improvements made to his skating, I don’t see him being a scoring line option in the NHL in the future.

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Joe Connor - Wing

One of our highest ranked players to go unselected last year, Connor has made the jump to the USHL full time this year with Muskegon (from Avon Old Farms) and the results have been terrific. Much like Cole Knuble did last year, Connor has used his performance at this tournament to bring attention to the fact that he deserves to be selected the second time through. Flat out, he was one of the best players at the WJAC. That said, I could still see some apprehension from NHL teams considering that his physical tools are only average. He’s one of those players who is the sum of their parts, lacking a true standout quality…much like the aforementioned Knuble. At the WJAC’s, Connor operated best as an offensive zone support player. He competes for touches and applies pressure in puck pursuit. He protects the puck well. He finds soft spots in coverage. I wouldn’t say he drove play at the WJAC, the way a guy like Connelly did, but makes a lot of subtly great plays with the puck to create chances or keep plays alive. A great example is the pass I have included as a clip below.

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James Reeder - Wing/Center

I didn’t know a ton about Reeder heading into this tournament, but came away very impressed by him. The third part of the Connelly/Swanson top line, Reeder was the perfect complement to those two because of his ability to find soft spots in coverage, his off puck competitiveness, and the fact that he showed great skill and finishing ability too. A late born 2005, Reeder is first time draft eligible this year and definitely looks the part of an NHL draft pick. A Denver commit, there’s just something that pops about his game, even though he’s also not the kind of dynamic skater that you like to see from a 5’9 forward. That said, I would classify him as a better and more explosive skater than Swanson and as such, he plays with a little more pace than his diminutive linemate at the tournament. Having gone back and watched some of Reeder’s action with Dubuque this year, in combination with this tournament (and the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup), I would say that I prefer Reeder to Swanson as a potential NHL draft selection.

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Will Felicio - Defense

A standout at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup in the summer, Felicio hasn’t had the kind of USHL season to date that many expected he would. As such, we’ve really seen all hype on him completely die down. However, he had a pretty solid WJAC. Other than a poor pinch that led to a back breaking goal in the semifinals against Canada West, Felicio was actually pretty solid defensively. He made some good plays when defending the rush and he showed determination down low to battle for pucks, winning more battles than I’ve seen him win in the USHL this year. Offensively, he was his usual self. He creates inside the offensive zone with his ability to beat initial layers of pressure and get pucks on net. He holds the line well. I do wonder if he’s a good enough skater considering his lack of stature/reach, but it would be false to claim he had a poor tournament.

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Adam Kleber - Defense

Kleber is a massive (6’5) right shot defender who played big minutes for the U.S. at this tournament as an ‘06. He’s certainly not a high upside two-way guy. Having watched him at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup and in the USHL this year, I feel pretty confident saying that. He’s mostly a rim the glass and out guy at this time, especially when he’s pressured. He can be coerced into defensive zone turnovers and can struggle to play pucks on his backhand. However, the physical approach is going to be attractive to teams who think he can develop into a third pairing, PK guy. While he still struggles with his agility and transitional skating, I do think that his skating has already improved a bit since the Hlinka/Gretzky. He’s starting to look more comfortable on his edges. The clip I’ve included here is probably the perfect example of Kleber. A couple bad clearing attempts mixed in with a devastating hit.

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Tory Pitner - Defense

The best word to describe Pitner is…”solid.” He’s a right shot defender who I’ve been really impressed with in the defensive zone at both the Hlinka/Gretzky and now at the WJAC’s. He shows good gap control. Has good scanning habits. Plays physical and plays aggressively. I know the word on him coming into the year was that his hockey sense and decision making were questionable, but I haven’t really seen that. I see someone who starts the breakout well and who is a calming presence in the defensive end. What I have yet to see from him at either international event is high offensive upside. I need to circle back to watch more of him in the USHL because he has been producing with Youngstown. But, I have seen a player who can struggle at times with the puck when pressured because he lacks the skill/hands/creativity to escape cleanly. I guess my question regarding Pitner is…what is he at the next level? He’s a good skater, but not a great one. He’s got good size, but not great size. He seems to be at his best against high end competition when he keeps things simple. I like him, but I do wonder how NHL scouts feel about him (we’ll have to get our U.S. scouts on that), especially considering NHL Central Scouting only gave him a “W” rating.

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Sweden

Alexander Zetterberg - Center/Wing

Say what you want about Zetterberg’s lack of size (at 5’9 and pushing 160lbs), all he has done is produce at the international level this year. He was one of Sweden’s best at the summer’s Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, again at the U18 Nations tournament and now again at the WJAC’s. I know his play at the U20 level in Sweden has been a little erratic, but you definitely can’t claim that about his play for Sweden. Zetterberg’s goal scoring ability is among his best traits. He has a lightning quick release on his wrister and can one time pucks cleanly too, allowing him to beat goaltenders from a distance. However, what I am consistently impressed with is his competitive edge and desire to work between the dots, despite his lack of size. He battles near the crease and gets himself in good scoring position in the slot, even if it means jousting for position against bigger defenders. There’s a lot of Alex Debrincat in his game. He’s a similar kind of skater too. Not the prettiest stride for a smaller player, but it’s efficient at this level and his edgework/agility stand out as a positive. At what point do we say (as part of the scouting community) that you just can’t argue with success? Is it when Zetterberg has a great IIHF U18’s too?

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Melvin Fernstrom - Wing

I felt Fernstrom was a little snake bitten at this event. He played better than the below average stat line would indicate. He’s a guy who just looks like a future NHL player in some capacity. He plays a mature, North/South game. He’s not the most creative or dynamic, but he is the perfect complementary winger who can work the wall, protect the puck well and who can drive the net. The skating ability is already solid, particularly his explosiveness which helps him to be quick to loose pucks and retrievals. The shot is only average, but he does a good job of anticipating play in the offensive zone and he does a good job working the half wall on the powerplay. In particular, I thought Fernstrom played well in his two games against the United States in this tournament. While I’m not sure the NHL upside is incredibly high, he’s definitely the kind of player I see an NHL team taking inside the Top 50 this year (even if we had him ranked just outside of that range in our recent draft rankings).

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Lucas Pettersson - Center

The more I watch this Swedish U18 crop, the more Pettersson becomes one of my favourites of this class out of Europe. He’s a player that I don’t really perceive to have a significant weakness. His game is so well rounded and versatile. He’s on the ice whether his team is down a goal or up one, one of the many reasons that he’s been wearing a letter for the Swedish U18 team this year. Pettersson skates well. He’s middle of the ice focused. He competes hard in all three zones and has excellent anticipation/awareness away from the puck. He has the skill to operate as a strong playmaking pivot. At the WJAC, he largely centered a line with Zetterberg and Fernstrom and they were a very successful unit. At this point, I’d probably have Pettersson as the top forward prospect from Sweden this year (by birth, excluding Michael Brandsegg-Nygard).

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Alfons Freij - Defense

Last year the WJAC’s served as the Tom Willander coming out party. This year, I think the same thing happened with Freij, who was fantastic for the Swedes. While Sahlin Wallenius was unquestionably the more flashy, Freij was the more consistently effective at both ends. I was consistently impressed with his decision making in his own end, even under pressure. His footwork is excellent and it makes him a breakout machine, similar to the way that Willander impressed last year. Offensively, I think Freij has more to offer too. He does a good job getting point shots through and he has a heavy point shot that can beat goaltenders clean or generate second chance opportunities. As a defensive player, he’s definitely more of a stick on puck guy, but again his footwork stands out as a positive and his possession and anticipation are strong suits. As he gets stronger, he’ll win those board battles more consistently, but all in all, I was more impressed overall by Freij here.

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Leo Sahlin Wallenius - Defense

It’s so easy to see why Wallenius is a favourite of the amateur scouting community; he’s a dynamic player. He consistently gains the offensive blueline with ease thanks to his combination of quickness and skill, along with his aggressive offensive approach. The offensive upside here is significant. I was also impressed with his physical approach in the defensive end, perhaps more than I had seen from him previously. That said, some of the warts in his game, like decision making and defensive engagement were present in this tournament. Neutral zone and offensive zone turnovers were a bit of an issue, as was puck watching in the defensive end. Without high end depth on the blueline this year, the Swedes need Freij and Wallenius to play on separate pairings to anchor them. Not having someone like Gabe Eliasson to pair with Sahlin Wallenius, hurt them overall at this event.

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Jack Berglund - Center

Came into this event knowing very little about Berglund. He wasn’t on the Swedish Hlinka/Gretzky team last summer, didn’t make a huge impression at the recent Nations tournament, and he isn’t someone our Swedish scouts have spoken about thus far. However, I consistently found myself taking note of Berglund at the WJAC’s. The son of former New Jersey Devil Christian Berglund, Jack plays a similar heavy game. He scored his first SHL goal in late November and has had a very solid year in the J20 loop. Throughout the WJAC’s, Berglund was a physical threat, making his presence felt on the forecheck, in puck pursuit, and on net drives. He’s not a bad skater for a big guy who plays such a heavy game too. There’s some explosiveness to his stride and he can play with pace. The skill level…it’s hit and miss. He does seem to struggle maintaining possession at full speed occasionally. The finishing ability is equally hit and miss. But I couldn’t help but be impressed by the physical tools. Anyone who knows me, knows I love players like Berglund.

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Anton Frondell - Wing/Center

I know, I said I would only discuss draft eligible players in this piece, but I just had to mention one of my favourites for the 2025 draft in Anton Frondell (a 2007 born playing up in this tournament). I was really impressed by Frondell at the Under 17’s, so I was excited to see that Sweden had taken him for this event. That proved to be a smart thing to do as he was consistently one of their best players. Without question, he deserves to be on the U18 team to close the year. Frondell is quietly throwing his name in the ring to compete with James Hagens for early first overall favourite in 2025. He’s the complete package. He has skill. He has finishing ability. He skates very well. He applies himself physically and looks to drive the center lane. This is a five tool player and someone I believe should be talked about more.

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Slovakia

Daniel Alexander Jencko - Center/Wing

Alexander Jencko is a very interesting prospect. He was relatively hyped at a young age, leaving Slovakia to join the Malmo program. A 2005 born, he underwhelmed in his draft year and went unselected last year. However, he returned to Malmo on a mission this year and became one of the U20 team’s top players, even earning a look at the SHL level. Interestingly enough, following the U20 Five Nations in November, he decided to leave Sweden and head to North America to play with Youngstown of the USHL. The USHL is a league that has more overage players selected each year than any other league or region, so I suppose the hope here is that this draws more attention to him and the improvements he’s made. The early returns have been good as he has been playing well. As for this tournament, well he was unquestionably the best player on a Slovak team that was largely overmatched at this event. His speed was on display and he showed a solid work ethic away from the puck to earn touches, competing physically and using his quickness to be an impactful player in all three zones. It will be interesting to monitor his play with Youngstown in the second half.

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Ondrej Maruna - Wing

A massive winger who normally plays with Charlottetown (QMJHL), Maruna was a bit of a disappointment at this event. He was held scoreless and largely failed to make a significant impact, often finding himself behind the play due to his clunky skating stride and heavy feet. Once he gets going, he can be a load to handle with the puck; he did have a few impressive rushes over the course of the tournament. However, shift to shift, he largely struggled, much like the rest of his teammates…to be fair. Given Charlottetown’s poor position in the QMJHL standings, Maruna will likely have a chance to play at the U18’s this season and that will be another opportunity for him to impress scouts, along with his continued play in the QMJHL.

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HLINKA GRETZKY CUP REVIEW – Sweden – Disappointing result – Strong tournament

Steven Graves — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 19:05:49 +0000

Sweden’s performance at the Hlinka Gretzky was actually quite good, despite a fifth-place finish at the tournament. The way the tournament is structured, the Swedes got incredibly unlucky and finished third in the pool even though they had only lost one game. Other than the one loss against the Americans, they played really well in the tournament. The first two games resulted in a 11-1 thrashing of the Germans, then a 6-1 loss against the Americans. Because of the results of the rest of the games in the pool, the Swedes needed to come away with a win by at least six goals against the Czechs in their third game in the tournament to get into the semi-finals. They were up 4-0 after two periods but the Czechs locked in during the third period and the Swedes came away with a 4-2 win. This meant that the Swedes failed to make the Semi Finals for the first time since 2013, and they would be playing the Swiss for fifth place - where they would prevail with a 3-2 win in overtime as Linus Eriksson scored 35 seconds into the extra period.

Top Five

Leo Sahlin Wallenius

Keep your ears open for this kid's name this season, Sahlin Wallenius I thought had a coming out party of sorts at the Hlinka for this Swedish team, and a kid I think will shoot up draft rankings this year. This Swedish defender caught my eyes whenever he was on the ice. Sahlin Wallenius really showcased just how good his transition game was. It was a regular occurrence to see him retrieving the puck in the defensive end and carrying the puck into the offensive zone using his great skating ability and subtle head fakes to great effect in doing so. He was also so poised from the blueline. Everything he does looks so casual and calculated. He was great at defending against speed using strong gaps and an active stick to great effect to slow down, then close out on his opponents. When he got control of the puck in the offensive end, he tended to go for a lap around the ice, trying to open up his teammates for scoring chances. This worked on many occasions and it seemed like his coaches trusted him the most of any defender on the team as he was on the ice more than all of them. He was probably the single most impressive Swede in the tournament.

Alexander Zetterberg

Zetterberg was electric all tournament long. He was the straw that stirred the Swedish drink for most of the tournament. The small yet skilled forward was really effective in how he was able to pick up the puck in the neutral zone, enter the offensive zone and control the pace of play. He was very dangerous when attacking the outside in transition due to how fast and agile he is. On many occasions throughout the tournament, Zetterberg was able to use his great vision to find open teammates for excellent scoring chances. He isn’t just a small, offensive forward though - he would often be the first forward on the backcheck, using his stick to great effect to disrupt his opposition and create many turnovers because of it. Although Zetterberg was so effective at creating offense when he was on the ice for the Swedes, he would at times hold onto the puck longer than he maybe should have in the offensive zone, while looking off teammates to do something himself. This is a tiny gripe, and one many offensive players his age deal with but something that stood out throughout the tournament.

Herman Liv

It’s crazy that the best goalie in the tournament went 4-0 with a .937 save percentage yet his team finished in 5th. That should let you know just how unlucky the Swedes were in their group stage. Liv was stellar all tournament long, he single-handedly kept the Swedes in the game against the Czechs with many big saves during key moments. Liv isn’t the biggest goalie, but he moved really well side to side and showed a never give up mentality no matter where the puck was. He had lightning quick reflexes and was excellent at tracking the puck. His size may hamper his impact at the next level, but in my eyes, he was clearly the best goalkeeper at this tournament.

Hugo Zetterlund

Zetterlund was a guy that wasn’t really on my radar until this tournament. He really stood out in the tournament with his ability to read the play a step ahead by putting himself in excellent positions to create or finish off an offensive opportunity. It was impressive how he was able to get lost in coverage and find open ice when he wasn’t on the puck. Although his high IQ was more noticeable in the offensive end, he used his positioning to great effect to hamper the opponent’s breakout by putting himself and his stick in position to take away passing lanes. Zetterlund also showcased his skating ability and motor, with how he and his line were playing hard on the puck and giving their opponents as little space as possible. He also has good four-way mobility - he was great at maneuvering around the ice with deceptive fakes with his feet that would give him just a little more time and space to find a play. Zetterlund and his line were great all tournament long for the Swedes.

Alfons Freij

I thought Freij played a stellar tournament. He was excellent for the Swedes on the breakouts, able to retrieve the puck well and zip an outlet pass to one of his streaking forwards with great effect throughout the entire tournament. In the offensive zone, he excelled at moving the puck efficiently to his forwards for scoring opportunities. He was also quite effective at getting the puck to the net from the point, he did a great job at moving across the blueline until he found a lane to shoot and put the puck on net. His skating was also quite impressive, he didn’t carry the puck out of his zone often, but when he did, he showcased his fluid skating stride. Defensively it was a bit of a mixed bag, for a guy who has good size already at his age, I found he struggled to box out in front of the net and use any sort of physicality all together. In the game against the Germans for example, he had excellent positioning on a smaller German forward along the boards but was unable to come away with the puck after getting out muscled. All in all, though, it was a very pleasant tournament for Freij.

Disappointments

Anton Olsson

Olsson was a guy I was really excited to get to watch coming into the tournament. He has been a guy I have foreseen as one of, if not the top defender in the ‘06 Swedish age group. At the Hlinka - however, he failed to live up to my expectations of him. He wasn’t very assertive in the offensive zone. It felt like he wanted to get the puck off his stick as quickly as possible and on many occasions forced plays in the offensive zone. In the defensive zone he was better, he was quite aggressive when defending and wasn’t afraid to throw his body around and be physical. However, throughout the four games played Olsson was quite undisciplined taking a total of five penalties, none as bad as the unsportsmanlike conduct call against the Czechs that allowed them to make it 4-2, with just over three minutes remaining. The Swedish team was very dejected after that goal. It wasn’t a great showing for Olsson, but there is talent here, so here’s hoping this was just a down event for him.

Karl Sterner

Sterner I thought started out quite strong against the Germans. He scored his only point of the tournament in that game and like everyone else on the Swedish team from this game, looked great in the offensive zone. Throughout the rest of the tournament, however, he was really nowhere to be seen. When he would do something of note - it wouldn’t be for the best reasons. In the game against Germany for example, he had the puck at the goal line and looked off teammates in better positions to score, just so he could try a low percentage shot that rimmed around the boards and out of the offensive zone. This made me question his decision making with the puck, and his overall hockey IQ. On top of suspect IQ, I didn’t like his willingness to float in the offensive end instead of attacking and pressuring a puck carrier, he was too much of a passenger at this tournament for me. Sterner is still a promising Swedish forward for the 2024 draft, but this tournament he just didn’t showcase that much.

NHL DRAFT PROSPECTS: 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Preview – Players to Watch

Brock Otten — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 16:19:17 +0000

The first scouting event of the new draft season is right around the corner, and everyone is rightfully excited. On July 31st, action gets under way at the 2023 Hlinka/Gretzky Cup in Breclav and Trencin, with Canada looking to repeat as Champions. Last year, Canada captured gold on the back of strong play by Cal Ritchie, Brayden Yager, and Cam Allen, and they enter this year’s tournament as the favourites again. Once again, Russia will not be participating due to the ongoing war with Ukraine, and Germany will be taking their usual spot.

Let’s go over some of the players to watch for each team.

Group A

Czechia

Adam Jecho - Forward

Amazingly, this will be Jecho’s third Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. He’s still looking for his first goal at the event but should definitely earn it this year as one of the top forwards in the tournament. A potential lottery pick, he has recently signed on with Edmonton of the WHL for this year. The big winger is dynamite in transition with his size and speed.

Adam Jiricek - Defense

The younger brother of top Columbus prospect David Jiricek, Adam plays a similar kind of game. He can have a real positive impact on the game offensively but is still finding his footing as an elite two-way player. He is another potential lottery selection on this roster.

David Svozil - Defense

Another brother of a solid NHL defense prospect, David is the sibling of Stanislav. He too is a smooth skating puck mover, but he has a larger frame than his brother giving him a bit better defensive upside.

Tomas Galvas - Defense

Intelligent, two-way defender with high end skating ability. Galvas has already seen action in the Czech Extraliga. There will be questions about his high-end upside, but this is going to be a big tournament for him to prove that he belongs in the first round conversation like his teammates.

Jakub Fibigr - Defense

If you hadn’t guessed, the defense should be the strong suit of this Czech team with four potential high selections coming into the season. Fibigr is also a smooth skating defender, but one with the potential to quarterback the powerplay and put up points.

Adam Benak (2025) - Forward

One of the few 2007 born players at the event this year, Benak is an incredibly talented center who dazzled at the U17’s last year as an underager, even pulling off “The Michigan.” His role on this Czech squad could be more support oriented, but he’s a potential top prospect for 2025.

Germany

Manuel Schams - Defense

The likely captain of this Germany squad, Schams has been relied upon to be the top defender in the ‘05 age group thus far. A two-way defender and possibly Germany’s best hope to have a 2024 draft selection, look for him to eat heavy minutes.

Rio Kaiser (2025) - Defense

Kaiser is a raw defender with great upside thanks to his massive 6’7 frame. He is a late born 2006, so he’s not NHL draft eligible until 2025. Recently selected by Peterborough in the Import Draft, he will stay in Germany this year.

David Lewandowski (2025) - Forward

The 2007 age group is a much better one for Germany with several players showing the potential to be potential NHL draft selections. Lewandowski is a rangy pivot with strong puck protection skill, and he could be the team’s first line center despite being an underager.

Gustavs Griva (2025) - Forward

Another 2007 born player on the roster who will likely play a large role. Latvian born, but German raised winger who also has a twin on the team (Richards). While both are great players, Gustavs is the likely higher touted for now.

Carlos Handel (2025) - Defense

Yes, another high end 2007. Handel could be one of the top defenders on this German team as an underager. He’s going to be playing this year in Sweden with the Malmo program. There is high hope that he can turn into a Seider/Reinbacher type of prospect in the future.

Sweden

Alexander Zetterberg - Forward

No, he is not the son of former Red Wings star Henrik Zetterberg, but there is apparently some distant relation between the two. What is certain is that Zetterberg enters the year as the top 2006 born Swedish player eligible for the draft (there are other strong late 2005’s). As such, the diminutive, but skilled and feisty center will be counted upon to be an offensive leader for this Swedish team.

Alfons Freij - Defense

An aggressive offensive defender with quick feet, Freij has the potential to be the first Swedish defender selected in 2024. He is ultra confident with the puck on his stick, and he was good for Sweden in a depth role at last year’s World Junior A Challenge, an event containing some pretty solid older prospects.

Anton Olsson - Defense

Not to be confused with the Nashville stay at home defender of the same name. This Anton Olsson is much more offensively oriented and fleet of foot. He should help anchor the blueline with Freij, as he did at last year’s U17’s.

Lucas Pettersson - Forward

Pettersson is an intelligent two-way center who has great playmaking chops. He was the second leading U17 scorer in the Swedish J20 league last year behind Zetterberg and he should form a great 1/2 punch down the middle for Sweden.

Karl Sterner - Forward

Lately there seems to be a big Swedish forward with intriguing athletic potential available every year at the draft. This year, that player appears to be Sterner. He shows an ability to put defenders on his back and control the wall. The skill, size, and skating combination will be very interesting to watch this year.

Linus Eriksson - Forward

Don’t let the limited production at last year’s U17’s fool you, Eriksson was one of Sweden’s top players at the event. He uses his strong skating ability to impact the game in all three zones and has the creativity to be a topflight playmaker. Eriksson’s upside is very high, and he will be one to watch at this tournament and throughout this season.

Victor Eklund (2025) - Forward

A large contingent of the top end forwards on this Swedish team are late birthdays. Victor is the younger brother of top San Jose Sharks prospect William Eklund. He plays the game in a similar way, as a slippery and creative playmaker. However, he did struggle at the J20 level last year and at the U17’s.

Viggo Nordlund (2025) - Forward

Kind of a similar player to Zetterberg…and yes, he is also a late born 2006 player. Nordlund was very noticeable at last year’s U17’s due to his combination of vision, passing ability, and strong agility. He can really keep the puck on a string, and he should play a top six role at this event.

Love Harenstam (2025) - Goaltender

In contention to be the best 2007 born goaltender on the planet, there is no guarantee that Harenstam sees considerable action given that he is an underager. However, he is a player to watch based on his immense upside as the next great Swedish netminder…and of course his amazing name.

United States

Trevor Connelly - Forward

One of the key figures on this U.S. team, Connelly was already an impact player in the USHL last year as a 16-year-old for Tri-City. He brings size, speed, and skill and is a lethal scorer from inside the dots. He also competes hard away from the puck and could ultimately be a first round pick next June.

Mac Swanson - Forward

Not the biggest forward, but Swanson is incredibly skilled. He was a near point per game player in the USHL as a 16-year-old for Fargo and was one of the best players in last year’s Clark Cup playoffs. His playmaking ability and vision are near elite. This tournament will be a big test for him. Players at his size (5’7) need to produce to be drafted.

AJ Spellacy - Forward

A big power forward playing for the Windsor Spitfires who was having a terrific rookie year prior to a season ending knee injury. He was a surprise addition to camp given his injury timeline but ended up making the team. He brings a ton of physicality and energy to the ice and can be a difference maker in transition.

Aidan Park - Forward

One of a few California kids on this roster, Park is a Shattuck St. Mary’s standout who is committed to the University of Michigan in the future. He’s an intelligent two-way forward with good skill and speed who didn’t look out of place in limited USHL action last year.

William Zellers - Forward

Another Shattucks St. Mary’s player on the roster, Zellers is a high IQ support winger who should play on the first two lines of this U.S. team. The Boston University commit is also a member of the Green Bay Gamblers.

Owen Keefe - Defense

Expect Keefe to be a defensive anchor for the U.S. at this event. He’s got a very polished and mature defensive game already thanks to strong mobility, reach, and a high IQ. The Muskegon (USHL) defender is a Boston University commit.

Will Felicio - Defense

Felicio is an undersized, but talented offensive defender who can run the powerplay and move the puck. He was a member of the USHL All Rookie team last year after a great season with Madison. Look for Felicio to run a potentially dangerous powerplay at this event.

Thatcher Bernstein - Goaltender

One of the top goalies in the prep school scene last year as a 16-year-old, Bernstein appears to have the inside edge to be the starting netminder for this U.S. team. He has the size that NHL teams are looking for and he’ll be playing for Dubuque this year in the USHL.

Ryker Lee (2025) - Forward

Lee is yet another Shattuck St. Mary’s player and is perhaps the only one guaranteed to return to the program this year as a late born 2006. He is a highly creative and skilled offensive player who could play a top six role on this team despite some size/strength deficits.

Group B

Canada

Sam Dickinson - Defense

Dickinson, a London Knights defender, is a potential top ten selection this year as a dominant two-way player. He controls the play with his combination of length and mobility, and he can have a profound impact on the transition game. Look for him to be one of the better defensemen at the event.

Henry Mews - Defense

Another potential top ten selection on the blueline out of the OHL, Mews is a different player than Dickinson, but he is equally effective and intriguing as a prospect. He oozes offensive potential thanks to his high-end vision and touch. He will also be an integral part of this Canadian Hlinka team.

Zayne Parekh - Defense

Look for Parekh to quarterback to the top Canadian powerplay after a record-breaking season in the OHL. His 21 goals set a new record for scoring by a U17 defender in the OHL. He’s a hybrid style defender with a high skill level and the skating ability to play aggressively with the puck.

Berkly Catton - Forward

The former first overall pick in the WHL by Spokane, Catton will be one of the main forwards to keep an eye on at this event. He is a potential top five selection thanks to the pivot’s complete game and skill level. He can do it all on the ice.

Cayden Lindstrom - Forward

Lindstrom is a huge, but lanky forward who is still learning how to unlock his physical potential. He can be an absolute force on net drives already and flashes high end skill in transition. Imagine how good he’ll be once he fills out his frame? Expect him to be a draft riser over the course of the year and it could start with a strong performance here.

Maxim Masse - Forward

One of the few players from the QMJHL on the roster this year, Masse was the CHL Rookie of the Year last season. Masse is a skilled scoring winger who also has good size and plays hard away from the puck. The Hlinka/Gretzky offers him an opportunity to show scouts that he has worked hard to improve his skating.

Michael Misa (2025) - Forward

The lone 2007 born player on this Canadian roster, Misa was granted exceptional status by Hockey Canada to enter the OHL early. He did not disappoint in his rookie year, albeit in the face of some injuries. He is a dynamic force when attacking with pace because of his ability to blend speed and skill. His shot is insanely good too. Look for him to be among the team’s offensive leaders despite his age.

Porter Martone (2025) - Forward

Expectations for Martone at this event will be quite high after he was great for Canada in a depth role at the U18’s as an underager. The late born 2006 winger plays a power game and has the size and skill to dominate down low.

Malcolm Spence (2025) - Forward

Another late 2006 born forward on this roster who could play a large role, Spence is an athletic beast. His rookie year with Erie had its ups and downs, but he did enough to flash his high-end offensive upside thanks to his combination of size and skill. Of all the players on this Canadian roster, Spence is the one that I’m most intrigued to see improvement from.

Gabriel D’Aigle (2025) - Goaltender

The last time we saw D’Aigle, he was thrust into action in the medal round for Canada at the U18’s despite being only 16. While he wasn’t fantastic, he held his own under the circumstances and should be one of the best goalies at this event. He’s not NHL draft eligible until 2025 with a late November birthday.

Finland

*of note, top Finnish ‘06’s Aron Kiviharju and Konsta Helenius will compete with Finland in the upcoming U20 showcase in Plymouth instead of the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup.

Veeti Vaisanen - Defense

There is some thought out there that Vaisanen has a chance to push ahead of Kiviharju as the top Finnish defender available this year. With Kiviharju out of the event, he will get his chance to shine. He’s a highly mobile two-way defender who will need to show that his offensive capabilities are high end.

Niilopekka Muhonen - Defense

Muhonen is a big defender who has already been playing at the U18 level for a year now, suiting up at last year’s Hlinka/Gretzky and this year’s U18’s. He’s already very polished in the defensive end and has great upside as a shutdown type. Does he have the upside to match? He could easily be a first-round pick next June if he shows that.

Joona Saarelainen - Forward

Likely to be the first line center and primary play driver for this Finnish entry, Saarelainen is a skilled, but undersized pivot. He played at this tournament last year as an underager and will try to use that experience to help Finland overcome the loss of their two best players.

Roope Vesterinen - Forward

Another undersized, but skilled forward, Vesterinen was lethal at last year’s U17’s, helping Finland take bronze. He thinks the game at a high level and has the high-end skating ability to beat defenders one on one.

Emil Hemming - Forward

A nice contrast to the undersized, high skill forwards in the age group for Finland, Hemming is a skilled power winger who excels driving the middle. The question for Finland is, do they load up a first line with their three top forwards or try to balance out the roster?

Petteri Rimpinen - Goaltender

Rimpinen was on Finland’s Hlinka/Gretzky Cup squad last year as an underager and returns this year as the starter. He may not have the elite size scouts are looking for (currently listed at 6’0), but he does have the athleticism. He was terrific in the Finnish junior leagues last year and has a chance to be the tournament’s best goaltender.

Switzerland

Daniil Ustinkov - Defense

Ustinkov is a player that many scouts will have their eyes on at this tournament, to see how he can lead a strong ‘06 group for Switzerland. He’s a dynamic offensive defender who looks to consistently push pace and who looks poised running the point of the powerplay. He already has a ton of experience at this U18 level internationally too.

Jamiro Reber - Forward

Heading into the tournament, Reber is the other top talent for Switzerland. He is slick and skilled, making him difficult to contain as he pushes into the offensive zone with speed. He’s leaving Switzerland to play in Sweden this year as part of the HV71 program.

Leon Muggli - Defense

Muggli has long been the captain of this strong ‘06 group and he will help anchor the defense along with Ustinkov and Gian Meier. He doesn’t have the flash of Ustinkov, but he is a hyper intelligent blueliner who excels in the defensive end.

Gian Meier - Defense

A big right shot defender, Meier is going to get a ton of ice time at this tournament as part of a strong defensive group for the Swiss. A raw player still trying to find his game, it will be interesting to track his development this year.

Yannik Ponzetto - Forward

Already signed on to play with the Halifax Mooseheads this season, Ponzetto is another integral piece of the forward group along with Reber. The big winger plays a power game, which should blend well with Reber’s skill on the top unit.

Christian Kirsch - Goaltender

Likely to be the starting netminder for the Swiss, Kirsch is a hyper athletic netminder with size. We saw him struggle at the U18’s this year as an underager, but he’s fared much better against his own age group. He has a commitment to UMass and is a draft pick of the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL).

Slovakia

Ondrej Maruna - Forward

Drafted by Charlottetown in the Import draft this year, there is belief that he will end up in the QMJHL this year. He’s a versatile two-way forward with size who may just be the top NHL draft prospect of this 2024 Slovak group. He played at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup as an underager last year too.

Theo Kiss - Forward

A UMass commit who has been playing with Mount St. Charles Academy the last few seasons, Kiss will likely play with Des Moines of the USHL this year. He is a very creative and skilled offensive player and it will be interesting to see what he can do on a larger stage.

Tomas Pobezal (2025) - Forward

The only true star of this 2006 Slovak group, Pobezal has already been on the international stage for a few years now. He played at both last year’s Hlinka/Gretzky Cup and this year’s U18’s. Thanks to a late birthday, he’s not draft eligible until 2025. This will be a big event to prove that he belongs in the conversation with some of the other top Slovaks who have dominated the tournament recently.

Luka Radivojevič (2025) - Defense

The son of former OHL’er and NHL’er Branko Radivojevič, Luka is quite different from his father. He’s a smooth skating, puck moving defender without the elite size his father had. He has been playing in Sweden the last two years and is part of a much stronger 2007 group for the Slovaks.

Tobias Tomik (2026) - Forward

Likely the youngest player at this entire event, Tomik is a December born 2007. He’s already been playing a level up Internationally for the Slovaks and now faces his next challenge as part of the U18 group. He is a pure shooter with high end goal scoring potential.