Carey Terrance – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #16 New York Rangers – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Fri, 01 May 2026 18:00:47 +0000

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 31: New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (94) warms up before the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers on January 31, 2026, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 16th (Last Year - 17th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

Having missed the playoffs for a second consecutive season, the New York Rangers appear to be turning the page and shifting their focus toward the future. If there were any doubts about that direction, the decision to trade Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings made things crystal clear. That move, along with several others at the NHL trade deadline, has significantly reshaped the organization’s draft outlook. The Rangers now hold seven selections across the first three rounds of the 2026 NHL Draft, including two first-round picks. One of those selections could land near the top of the draft, if not first, giving the organization an opportunity to inject high-end talent into what is currently a middle-of-the-pack prospect system.

That prospect system is also on the verge of losing one of its most impactful names. Gabe Perreault (21st) has already made the jump to the NHL and is producing at a promising rate as a 20-year-old, positioning himself to graduate from prospect status by our next instalment. Acquired in the Panarin trade, Liam Greentree (36th) now headlines the Rangers’ junior contingent. While his OHL production has taken a slight step back, his combination of size and skill continues to project well at the NHL level. In Flint, Nathan Aspinall has enjoyed a breakout season, finishing second in OHL scoring with 94 points — exactly doubling his output from the 2024–25 campaign. He is joined by recently acquired forward Jacob Battaglia, who was brought in at the trade deadline in a deal that sent former top prospect Brennan Othmann to a new organization for a fresh start.

While it appeared at times that Chris Drury was attempting to salvage the current core, the organization has now committed to a quicker retool. With increased draft capital and a building prospect base, the Rangers will look to reset and reestablish themselves as a contender in the near future.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
NYR	1	Gabe Perreault	LW	21	5-11/180	NY Rangers (NHL)	49	12	15	27	10
NYR	1	Gabe Perreault	LW	21	5-11/180	Hartford (AHL)	20	10	7	17	14
NYR	2	Scott Morrow	D	23	6-2/210	Hartford (AHL)	34	5	14	19	69
NYR	2	Scott Morrow	D	23	6-2/210	NY Rangers (NHL)	29	0	6	6	4
NYR	3	Liam Greentree	RW	20	6-3/215	Windsor (OHL)	52	38	36	74	63
NYR	4	EJ Emery	D	20	6-3/185	North Dakota (NCAA)	38	3	10	13	32
NYR	5	Dylan Roobroeck	C	21	6-6/190	Hartford (AHL)	72	11	15	26	90
NYR	6	Drew Fortescue	D	21	6-1/175	Boston College (NCAA)	36	4	10	14	47
NYR	6	Drew Fortescue	D	21	6-1/175	NY Rangers (NHL)	9	0	2	2	4
NYR	7	Malcolm Spence	LW	19	6-1/200	Michigan (NCAA)	40	10	15	25	44
NYR	8	Nathan Aspinall	LW	20	6-7/205	Flint (OHL)	65	33	61	94	42
NYR	9	Aidan Thompson	LW	24	5-11/180	Rfd-Hfd (AHL)	58	8	14	22	22
NYR	10	Jacob Battaglia	RW	20	6-1/200	Kgn-Fln (OHL)	64	26	22	48	61
NYR	11	Adam Sykora	RW	21	5-10/170	Hartford (AHL)	62	12	17	29	28
NYR	11	Adam Sykora	RW	21	5-10/170	NY Rangers (NHL)	11	3	1	4	5
NYR	12	Jaroslav Chmelar	RW	22	6-5/220	Hartford (AHL)	46	8	17	25	42
NYR	12	Jaroslav Chmelar	RW	22	6-5/220	NY Rangers (NHL)	28	4	2	6	11
NYR	13	Dylan Garand	G	23	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	36	16	15	2.83	0.896
NYR	14	Ty Henricks	LW	20	6-4/205	Western Michigan (NCAA)	39	9	16	25	43
NYR	15	Carey Terrance	C	21	6-1/175	Hartford (AHL)	68	8	9	17	44

Gabe Perreault, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

In a season full of disappointment, Perreault has proven to be one of the brightest lights in the organization. After being selected 23rd overall in the 2023 draft, Perreault exploded onto the college scene with 60 points as a freshman. The 48 points in 37 games in his sophomore year paled in comparison, but after two straight WJC performances with 10 points apiece, he’s jumped right into his pro rookie season showing that hardly any adjustment period is necessary. Always more of a playmaker than goalscorer, Perreault had no problem putting the puck in the net at the AHL level for the initial quarter of the season and since joining the Rangers a week before Christmas, he hasn’t looked back, having often accumulated at least 16 minutes of TOI along the way with upwards of 20 by season's end. It is important that, despite being slightly undersized, his elite hockey IQ is translating, and he seems to already understand that shooting is often the best choice you have on the attack. Skating hasn’t held him back thus far, but it is surely on the “desired improvement” list heading into the offseason. A post trade deadline burst of offence with nine points in his first six games was a promising sign of his role going forward. It is possible an invitation to the World Championships for Team USA is in the cards.
Scott Morrow, D, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

After a fairly fantastic 24-25 AHL season with the Chicago Wolves that led to 19 total games with the Carolina Hurricanes, Morrow became a key component of a trade that saw K’Andre Miller go from the Rangers to the Canes this past offseason, allowing Morrow to enter this season as no less than the Rangers’ top defensive prospect. Seen as a modern two-way threat with strong transition skills, he’s shown the ability to beat goalies from the point and use his stickhandling and body positioning to take advantage of opponents while finding open teammates. What the Rangers have nonetheless found out at both the AHL and NHL levels this season is that Morrow is a work in progress in the defensive zone, having been right in the middle of a number of goals against this season. He kicked things off with less than desirable AHL statistics but was forced into duty on a Rangers’ team and blueline that has disappointed just about all season long. The plus is that he has ridden with the opportunity and hovered around 15 minutes of TOI per night, gaining valuable experience to build on. More offensive contributions were hoped for and he finished the season with Hartford but should see more time with the NHL club next year.
Liam Greentree, RW, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Selected 26th overall in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings, Greentree was the key piece returning to the New York Rangers in the Artemi Panarin trade to the LA Kings earlier this month. Greentree has served as captain of the Windsor Spitfires for the past two seasons. The power winger is known for his offensive skill and lethal shot, though his point production has dipped this season compared to the previous two. Greentree was named to Canada’s 2026 World Junior team but saw limited usage, dressing for just three games as the 13th forward. His play away from the puck and skating were exposed at the World Junior tournament, his motor remains not high enough and is still lacking the footspeed needed as a power winger. Greentree possesses a high character and discipline, and with continued development under the Rangers’ player development staff, he projects as a potential middle six winger. He remains a work in progress, but patience in his development could yield a significant payoff.
EJ Emery, D, University of North Dakota (NCAA)

Emery is a defensive-minded defender, who showcased his defensive maturity with the USNTDP in his draft year. With his stout defensive play, Emery was selected in the first round. His pro-style play, strong skating, and all-around smarts lends itself to a more translatable skill set to the NHL. Since joining the NCAA, his offensive impacts have remained virtually the same. He isn’t producing much of anything, going from one point in his first season, across 31 games, to 13 points in 38 games this year. He still plays a very defensive-oriented style, remaining responsible and conservative in the offensive end. However, he has become slightly more involved when it comes to transitioning the puck up ice. That development is at least a bit noticeable. That being said, it isn’t often that defenders become long-term NHL players without some more respectable offensive numbers at the junior and collegiate levels. That’s not to say he doesn’t have an NHL projection, but it does mean he needs to take a bigger step in providing at least a bit more offence. He currently projects as a bottom-pair defender with penalty-killing upside. But again, his offensive game needs to be better for him to carve out a top four role in the future.
Dylan Roobroeck, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

If the name Roobroeck pops out at you, it’s because Dylan’s brother Ryan entered this season looking like a surefire first round draft pick. The hype has settled down for Ryan, but playing some intense hockey is surely in the family genes. To be clear, Dylan was a late round pick in 2023, and his size, hands, and occasional snarl jumped out at scouts. So too did his lack of mobility and weaknesses in various aspects of the game across all three zones. Then he jumped right into AHL play last season and pumped in 20 goals. This saw his prospect status take a leap, especially considering he had little problem adjusting to the rough stuff the league entails. Enter the 25-26 season, one that has seen him fall into a sophomore slump of sorts. Sure, he’s still where he was initially envisioned to be but is nowhere close to repeating last season’s success. Hartford’s woes haven’t helped. But now we have to wonder if he is going to be an NHL topic. Mobility is still an issue, and opponents have scored plenty of goals with him on the ice. Can this disappointing season lead to the necessary adjustments?
Drew Fortescue, D, Boston College (NCAA)

Fortescue, a third-round draft choice of the New York Rangers, is a shut-down, pro-style defender. He was drafted due to his stout defensive play and overall smarts. Almost always in the right spot, he was lauded for his high hockey IQ and ability to read the play from the defensive end. While offence has never been his game, he did need to develop that side of his game a bit more. Since joining Boston College, his offense has seen some improvement from a raw production standpoint. But what has stood out the most in that area is his puck-moving ability. What was once a weakness has become a more evident positive in his game, as he has been relied on more and more with each passing season to help transition the puck up ice. So, while his offensive production and impact have somewhat remained the same, he has steadily improved his overall impact on the game in a way that will help him potentially carve out an NHL role. His skating has also improved over the last couple of years, as expected. Fortescue projects as a bottom-pair defensive defenseman, so long as he continues his upward trajectory.
Malcolm Spence, LW, University of Michigan (NCAA)

Spence, a second-round draft selection of the Rangers, had a solid OHL outing in his draft year, scoring over 30 goals and producing over a point-per-game. His strong skating, high-end motor, and willingness to play with a bit of a physical edge were traits that scouts enjoyed. His shoot-first mentality was also a boon to his draft stock. However, he did struggle with decision-making, especially under pressure, while his consistency in all three zones needed work. He made the jump to the NCAA for this season, joining Michigan, to help his development. In a much smaller role than what he played in the OHL, his production, of course, took a hit. But his play with the puck, in terms of play-creation and shot-creation, are fairly similar. Spence has been able to translate fairly well to the collegiate level, and as he gets a bigger role moving forward, the production should follow. He’s projected to be a middle-six winger, but with another year or two in the NCAA with better production, there’s a world where he could end up filling a top six role.
Nathan Aspinall, LW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

A fifth-round pick selected 159th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft by the New York Rangers, the Firebirds captain is enjoying a breakout season. He finished second in the OHL in points finished among the top three all-time for most points in a season in Firebirds history. Aspinall is most effective playing down low, as he can serve as a dual threat - capable of finishing plays off or being a facilitator. His size and shot power make him a deceptive playmaker as he must be respected as a shooting threat while he can seam passes through traffic into passing lanes. The confidence level is high in Aspinall’s play, recording more than 75% of his points at even-strength. While he is still filling out his frame and improving his skating, he is quickly learning to leverage his size and physicality. His strength in his active stick has allowed him to average nearly 2.5 takeaways per game in the defensive zone. The significant spike in Aspinall’s development this season can give Rangers executives confidence that he could slot in as a bottom six forward at the next level in the near future.
Aidan Thompson, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

After a terrific three year run at the University of Denver, Thompson turned pro this year, but the offensive production hasn’t quite met expectations. Due to the depth of Chicago’s system, he had a hard time finding consistent production and ice time with Rockford. However, after a deadline deal to the New York Rangers, Thompson finds himself in a system with less forward depth, which should mean increased responsibility and a better opportunity to produce with Hartford. He’s an energetic and quick paced forward who projects as a possible middle six type once he gains his footing and adjusts to the pace and physicality of the pro game. Thompson is a high-end playmaker who is very sound with the puck, but the key will be finding ways to impact the game away from the puck like he did at Denver, despite only possessing average size. Considering that the Hawks gave up Thompson in exchange for an AHL veteran, it does make you wonder if they saw something to suggest that Thompson would struggle to be an impact pro.
Jacob Battaglia, RW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

Battaglia’s draft plus one year was outstanding, as he quietly emerged as one of the most effective forwards in the OHL for the Kingston Frontenacs. However, this season has seen him take a step back, splitting the year between Kingston and Flint. Battaglia is an intelligent playmaker for a big winger, and he has worked to improve both his skating and physical consistency. However, the skating development has seemed to plateau this season and Battaglia is not playing with the same kind of confidence with the puck that he showcased last year. He has not consistently shown the creativity and skill that he exhibited during his breakout season. But it’s too early to give up on Battaglia. He still has the makings of an excellent middle six, complementary piece. Now in the Rangers organization after a deadline move, Battaglia already inked an ELC, otherwise the NCAA level would have been great for him for a few seasons to help him continue to improve as a skater and physically. However, that opportunity does seem to be closed despite the recent eligibility changes.
Adam Sykora, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

A 2022 second round draft pick, Sykora came out of the top Slovakia professional league looking like a fascinating water bug player with a bright future. Two and a half AHL seasons later, he’s still got plenty of energy and can make his way around the ice as a player ready to do whatever his coaches ask of him, but his offensive game just hasn’t come along as once hoped for. At this point, a pesky fourth line role looks like his NHL limit.
Jaroslav Chmelar, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

The hulking winger out of Czechia has earned some NHL time this year, even though his AHL production has been pretty pedestrian. It’s obvious that the Rangers view him as a potential bottom six option who can bring physicality.
Dylan Garand, G, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

While Garand hasn’t been as good as he was last year with Hartford, he’s still likely in New York’s plans as a possible back-up moving forward. Jonathan Quick is a pending UFA and that could open up the door for Garand.
Ty Henricks, LW, Western Michigan University (NCAA)

A big, physical winger, Henricks has seen notable improvement between his freshman and sophomore seasons with Western Michigan. Henricks may not offer terrific NHL upside, but he has the tools to be a potential bottom six asset.
Carey Terrance, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

It took a few years for Terrance’s offensive game to come around at the OHL level and the Rangers may need to be equally patient with him as a pro. He’s a terrific skater and he brings effort at both ends. At the very least, a potential fourth line penalty killer.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #17

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:49:48 +0000

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 02: Rookie New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (94) in action prior to the National Hockey League game between the Minnesota Wild and the New York Rangers on April 2, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 17th (May 2025 - 19th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

Once pegged as a Cup contender, New York missed the postseason for the first time in four years. GM Chris Drury stayed aggressive, reacquiring J.T. Miller in a win-now move and making it clear that his focus is still on competing, not retooling. A new head coach will now be tasked with guiding the team back into the playoff picture.

The Rangers entered the 2025 draft without a first-round pick, limiting their ability to add a blue-chip talent. Their biggest splash came via trade, sending K’Andre Miller to Carolina for offensive defenseman Scott Morrow, who immediately steps in as the organization’s top prospect and a candidate to crack the NHL lineup this fall.

Coming in at a close second is Gabe Perreault, who’s fresh off signing his entry-level deal. He capped a brilliant two-year run at Boston College with 35 goals and 108 points in 73 games. While his short NHL debut didn’t produce much offensively, his creativity and scoring instincts suggest he’s not far from locking down a top six role.

Brennan Othmann and Brett Berard both earned NHL cameos this season and are knocking on the door of full-time jobs. Depth options such as Adam Sýkora, newly acquired Brendan Brisson, and goaltender Dylan Garand continue to develop in Hartford, providing additional reinforcements.

With a new and established bench boss in place and Drury extended as GM, the Rangers remain committed to winning with their current core. But after another missed opportunity, the pressure is mounting for this group to deliver—and the next wave of prospects could be key to pushing them over the top.

New York Rangers Top-15 Prospects

1 - Scott Morrow

Scott Morrow is one of the most talented defensive prospects in the NHL. While playing in the AHL last season with the Chicago Wolves, Morrow was a huge presence at both ends of the ice. In the offensive zone, he’s always a threat to shoot. He can beat goalies cleanly with pinpoint accuracy from the point, but he can also use his stickhandling and body positioning to fake out opposing players and find open teammates. Morrow’s game has also really matured in the defensive zone, where he can use his strong frame to tackle heavy minutes on a nightly basis against opposing teams’ top players. Now having wrapped up his first full professional season, and after an offseason trade, Morrow looks ready to make the New York Rangers as a full-time NHLer. Morrow should occupy bottom-pairing minutes to start the year, but don’t be surprised when you see Morrow become a mainstay in the Rangers’ top four. He’s just that talented.

2 - Gabe Perreault

Gabe Perreault is coming off a down year statistically…where he piled up 48 points and finished 11th in NCAA scoring. Not too much to be disappointed about there, except for the fact that he put up 60 points the year before. Perreault is very dangerous offensively thanks to his elite hockey IQ and fantastic playmaking ability, plus he had great puck skills to boot. The biggest knock on Perreault is his skating ability, which is average at best. This season, Perreault likely will develop in a top six role in the AHL while the Rangers work with him to improve his skating. If his skating remains around average, his ability should allow him to contribute in a top six capacity while particularly being a threat on the power play. If he can make strides toward improving his skating, his hockey IQ and skill set are enough that he could be a top-of-the-lineup offensive driver.

3 - Brennan Othmann

Brennan Othmann is a very talented goal scorer with a quick release. Othmann is always a threat to score when the puck is on his stick in the offensive zone, but he’s more than just a goal scorer; he’s a great playmaker who can find open teammates with little time and space. There were moments last season when Othmann looked like a player that was just too good to be playing in the AHL, and he was very deserving of his midseason call-up to the New York Rangers. With that being said, Othmann did have trouble creating consistent offence at the NHL level, but he did have very limited opportunity (mostly playing a fourth-line role). Nevertheless, Othmann’s game looks to be trending in the right direction, and he appears to be on track to have a good shot at earning a roster spot in the Rangers’ top nine this fall. The points will come as he learns to figure out the NHL game, and with a bit more opportunity, we can expect that this season.

4 - EJ Emery

Emery established himself as a physical, defence-first defenceman with solid gap control and effective stick work last season. His skating is serviceable for his size, allowing him to maintain defensive positioning and excel in net-front situations. Early reports highlighted his need to improve decision making and puck management, particularly under pressure. While he has shown flashes of strong puck movement on breakouts, inconsistency remains a concern. Emery’s strengths lie in his defensive awareness, physicality, and penalty-killing ability. He is reliable against rush attacks and uses his size to close off space. However, his limited offensive upside and inconsistent engagement in puck battles have limited his overall impact at the college level thus far. He needs further development in his puck-moving decisions and increased consistency in his defensive reads. His projection remains that of a second or third pairing NHL defenceman, best utilized in shutdown and penalty killing situations.

5 - Dylan Garand

In Dylan Garand's second year as Hartford’s starting goalie, he finally took that big jump. He’s become a top goalie in the AHL, while on a poor Hartford squad. His attention to detail is immaculate. He’s an exceptional skater, a fantastic playreader, and has phenomenal positioning. He’s a calm and reserved goalie playing deep to read and react, rather than aggressively anticipate play. Because he is generally always in position, he rarely displays his sneaky athleticism. While for the most part, his positioning is great, he could be more aggressive. At 6-foot-0, it would be better for him to try to take up more space when possible by gaining ice. While he’s always going to put himself into a position to save the puck, he isn’t necessarily covering as much net as possible. More experience should hopefully develop that area. Even being undersized, the potential of becoming a starting goalie in the NHL is high. We could likely see him in the NHL within the next two years if and when Jonathan Quick retires, allowing Garand to back up Shesterkin.

6 - Malcolm Spence

A second-round selection by the Rangers in 2025, Spence is a detail oriented, but athletic, two-way winger. His skating ability is one of his best assets, as he is explosive and quick skating downhill, allowing him to be an effective offensive player North/South. Spence is also a strong defensive player who is aggressive in puck pursuit and who has an active stick in the neutral and defensive zones. When paired with his strong skating ability, it makes Spence a reliable penalty killing option. The questions regarding Spence revolve around his offensive upside. Through three OHL seasons with the Erie Otters, Spence’s offensive game never reached the height some expected when he was drafted into the OHL second overall. That’s part of why he has altered his course and committed to the Michigan Wolverines next year. A new challenge should help to bring out the best in Spence and the college game fits his skill set well. Even in a worst-case scenario situation, Spence should be able to develop into a quality depth player for the Rangers down the line.

7 - Carey Terrance

For Terrance, it’s all about speed. His quickness is the heart and soul of his game, and it allows him to be a versatile and well-rounded two-way forward. Acquired from Anaheim in the Chris Kreider trade, Terrance’s offensive play did seem to stagnate a bit in the OHL the last few seasons. He’s not going to be a highly creative or skilled offensive contributor at the NHL level. However, he brings value because of his aforementioned versatility. He can play any forward position. He is an outstanding penalty killer. He is aggressive in getting to the net and can operate well as a forechecker, a role that helped the U.S. win gold at the most recent World Junior Championships. Turning pro this year, expect Terrance to need a few years in the AHL before he’s ready to earn a roster spot in the Big Apple. However, he has a good chance of developing into a quality bottom six contributor for the Rangers in time.

8 - Dylan Roobroeck

Dylan Roobroeck was extremely impressive for the Hartford Wolf Pack last season, especially because it was his first season in professional hockey. It was thought that Roobroeck would take more time to adapt his offence to the pro game, and that points would be more difficult to obtain now that he was playing versus men. Roobroeck ultimately proved his critics wrong and was an offensive threat for the Hartford Wolf Pack all season. With Roobroeck, it’s not just his size that allows him to get to the gritty areas to score goals; he also has nice hands and a powerful release. Roobroeck does need to continue to develop his skating at the AHL level, but the path is there for him to become a future NHL player. It’s not hard to envision Roobroeck as an effective third line forward at the NHL level, and he could even become an option as a net front presence on a second-unit power play. If not, becoming a fourth line forward is not out of the question.

9 - Drew Fortescue

After being selected in the third-round of the 2023 draft, 6-foot-2 blueliner Drew Fortescue has shown steady growth in his game. Offensively, there isn’t much to get excited about, with 19 points over two seasons, but Fortescue is a reliable pillar on the back end for Boston College. Fortescue can defend the rush well and is improving with his reads in the defensive zone, as well as getting stronger. In transition, Fortescue is also very dependable, as he moves the puck efficiently and gets it up ice quickly. The two-time World Junior gold medalist was a key shutdown piece in last year’s tournament for the United States, as he was paired with offensive dynamo Zeev Buium and logged top pair minutes. This season, he will head back to Boston College for another year in the NCAA, but down the line Fortescue could be a reliable bottom-pair NHL defender.

10 - Sean Barnhill

“Big Defenceman Fever” hit the New York Rangers again this year when they selected 6-foot-5 defenceman Sean Barnhill. He was THE defensive rock for Dubuque this past season, being both a stay-at-home defenceman and quite mobile and solid as a puck carrier. His skating and his stick-checking are major factors in the solid defence he applies to opponents. Barnhill’s advanced gap control was responsible for quelling many rushes, especially in Dubuque’s Clark Cup run. After originally committing to Northeastern, Barnhill switched his commitment to Michigan State, where he will be seen as a luxury as the biggest RHD on the Spartans roster. It will be tough to get premium minutes on a loaded back end, but Barnhill has the tools to take advantage of this opportunity in front of him.

11 - Adam Sykora

Not many players play with the amount of energy that Adam Sykora does. He’s an unrelenting, unselfish player who teammates and coaches adore. He is a hard forechecker as well as someone who plays on the penalty kill. He had 30 points in 71 games last year with Hartford, and if his point totals continue to grow modestly, he could earn a call-up as purely a fourth-line guy.

12 - Noah Laba

An underrated center prospect, Laba has done well to improve his NHL chances in recent seasons. After a freshman season where he was a -18, Laba turned it around the next season to be a +20 and point-per-game player. He has become a true two-way guy as his first AHL goal came shorthanded. He’ll get a full season in Hartford next season, where he should be instantly impactful in the top six.

13 - Jaroslav Chmelar

Chmelar is a big winger with some good offensive tools. The downside is that he isn’t defensively skilled enough for the pro level. In his first season with Hartford, he was a -37 while only scoring 30 points. He’ll need a significant amount of time in Hartford to improve defensively before he can be trusted in any role in the NHL.

14 - Nathan Aspinall

Standing at a tall 6-foot-7, Aspinall knows he is best utilized at the net front. He’ll park in front of the net using his frame to screen the goalie and his stick to get a deflection on any puck within his gigantic reach. He has a nice passing touch to complement his size, allowing him to find teammates in tight spaces. He’ll return to Flint in the OHL for his fourth year, where point production should be his main focus.

15 - Zeb Lindgren

2025 was the tale of two defencemen for Zeb Lindgren. The first half saw a defenceman who was competitive in his own zone, willing to take it himself in transition, and overall had that competitive two-way attitude. In the second half, that spark was gone. Lindgren can take big steps next year with Skellefteå if he can find ways to overcome his own mental hurdles.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #5 ANAHEIM DUCKS – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 12:19:41 +0000

PARADISE, NV - JUNE 28: Beckett Sennecke of the Oshawa Generals is drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the first round during the NHL Draft on June 28, 2024 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Speer/Icon Sportswire)

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Anaheim 25 Prospects

OHL: One NHL Prospect to Watch on Each Team

Kyle Watson — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 14:34:05 +0000

_{Henry Mews of the Ottawa 67's. (Photo by Terry Wilson/OHL Images)}

The 2024 NHL Draft marked the return of the OHL as hockey’s premier talent producer, leading the event with nine players selected in the first round and 39 in total. Oshawa Generals' rising star Beckett Sennecke was the first OHLer off the board at third overall, with Zayne Parekh, Sam Dickinson and Jett Luchanko joining him as lottery picks. The 2025 class, led by the equally high-flying Porter Martone and Michael Misa, could be even more impressive.

The 2024-25 OHL season is in full swing; players have returned from their NHL clubs and we have a concrete idea of how teams will shape up. Massive trades have already happened - such as Owen Sound captain Colby Barlow’s move to the Generals - and barring a few uncertainties, we know what the talent pool will look like in Ontario this year.

High-profile names like Liam Greentree and Sam Dickinson have continued to grab headlines a month into the campaign, posting gaudy statlines. While writing this article, I attempted to avoid blue-chip prospects, instead examining players positioned to have ‘breakout years,’ but included a few star names with storylines worth following.

Beau Akey, RHD, Barrie Colts (Edmonton Oilers)

DOB: Feb. 11th, 2005 H/W: 6-0/183 Draft: 2023, Rd. 2, 56th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 14 GP - 4 G - 5 A - 9 PTS

The Colts loaded the stables early this season: they added a trio of Dallas Stars prospects in Emil Hemming, Brad Gardiner and Tristan Bertucci before Game #1 before adding 104-point-scorer Dalyn Wakely in early October.

Amongst the glitz and glamour of all the flashy names arriving in Barrie, it might be easy to forget about Beau Akey. The Oilers’ 2023 second-rounder suffered a season-ending injury in November 2023 and was sidelined for most of his DY+1 campaign.

Once fully healthy, Akey will remind the world of his exceptional puck-moving ability. With the talent surrounding him in Barrie this season, his production should catapult. Whether paired with Bertucci, Senators prospect Gabriel Eliasson or 2025 draft-eligible Kashawn Aitcheson, Akey has been logging big minutes this season. Expect Barrie to be a frontrunner in the Eastern Conference playoff race and their top defenceman to lead them there.

Carson Rehkopf, F, Brampton Steelheads (Seattle Kraken)

DOB: Jan. 7th, 2005 H/W: 6-2/194 Draft: 2023, Rd. 2, 50th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 70 GP - 58 G - 48 A - 106 PTS

The Kraken second-rounder enjoyed about as perfect of a DY+1 campaign as possible. In the past two seasons in Kitchener, Rehkopf saw his offensive numbers rise significantly (from 30-29-59 in 68 games to 52-43-95 in 60) and he led the league in game-winning goals (10) and powerplay goals (16) last campaign.

The 19-year-old established himself as one of the deadliest shooters in junior hockey and honed his playmaking ability. He was also one of Canada’s better players at the World Juniors.

But there’s more to come for ‘The Razor’.

As talented as the 2023-24 Kitchener Rangers were, the Steelheads have deployed an even more gifted squad in their inaugural season in Brampton. Rehkopf was acquired in August to lead an offensive unit already boasting Angus MacDonell, Luke Misa, and a top-5 prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft in Porter Martone. Backstopped by sophomore phenom Jack Ivankovic, Brampton has depth in all areas and is well-equipped to add the final touches.

Projecting Rehkopf’s totals this season is almost frightening. Centring the Steelheads' top line with Martone on his wing, he is on pace for 39 goals and 136 points through seven contests (2.0 PTS/GP). The duo have outscored opponents 24-7 at 5v5 this season (77.4 GF%) and have been on the ice for 36 of Brampton's 66 goals through 14 games (54.5%).

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We know he won’t play 68 games as a returning player for Team Canada’s WJC group, but the Kraken prospect has another gear he’s starting to tap into for Brampton. Only 20 OHL players have reached the 120-point threshold in the 21st century; that mark should be within reach for Rehkopf.

Marek Vanacker, LW, Brantford Bulldogs (Chicago Blackhawks)

DOB: Apr. 12th, 2006 H/W: 6-0/179 Draft: 2024, Rd. 1, 27th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 74 GP - 39 G - 50 A - 89 PTS

The Bulldogs should be back with a bite this season and will be hungry for another OHL Championship. Their battle back to the top will be must-watch hockey for Chicago Blackhawks fans, with Vanacker (2024, 27th overall) and sniper Nick Lardis (2024, 67th overall) leading the charge.

Vanacker played most of his draft year with an injured shoulder, and Lardis was sidelined from January to the beginning of the playoffs with a wrist injury. Vanacker underwent surgery on his shoulder this summer. Upon his estimated return in December, Blackhawks fans will have their first look at the duo playing together 100 percent healthy.

In the 37 games played before Lardis’ injury on January 12th, Vanacker had 10 goals and 24 points. The Delhi, Ont. native stepped up during his teammates’ absence, scoring 19 goals and 44 points in the final 30 contests of the regular season. That’s a 226% uptick in points per game (0.65 w/ Lardis, 1.47 w/o).

I think Vanacker makes this Bulldogs team his own this season: Lardis is one of the most dangerous forwards in the league, and 2025 draft-eligible Jake O’Brien is a supreme playmaker, but Vanacker is so difficult to contain. He plays bigger than his 6-0, 174 lbs. frame: constantly getting under sticks and charging the net with an impressive blend of speed and skill.

The Hawks have some blue-chip prospects in their forward core: Oliver Moore, Lukas Reichel and Frank Nazar were all top-19 picks. In recent years, they have prioritized speed later in the draft, selecting the likes of Paul Ludwinski, AJ Spellacy, and John Mustard. I think Lardis and Vanacker fit nicely between those two tiers in Chicago’s system and both have a real chance of playing in their middle six in a few years.

Emil Pieniniemi, LHD, Kingston Frontenacs (Pittsburgh Penguins)

DOB: Mar. 2nd, 2005 H/W: 6-2/176 Draft: 2023, Rd. 3, 91st ov.

2023-24 Stats (Liiga): 38 GP - 2 G - 4 A - 6 PTS

Acquired by the Fronts in the 2023 CHL Import Draft, the Finnish defenceman arrives from the storied Kärpät organization. The 19-year-old played 48 games in Liiga last season: featuring almost entirely as the team’s seventh defenceman. Pieniniemi has also represented Finland at the U17, U18, and U20 levels, alongside new teammate Tuomas Uronen.

In his first 13 OHL games, the Penguins prospect has stepped right into the top of the Frontenacs lineup, operating as the PP1 anchor and playing on the top d-pairing alongside Quinton Burns. Pieniniemi’s playmaking ability is evident upon first-time viewing: he makes a strong first pass out of the zone and sees the ice very well from the blueline-in.

Kingston’s offence is flying on all cylinders this season, carrying them to the top of the East Division through 16 games (8-4-4-0). Their 68 goals are second only to Windsor’s 71 and their powerplay has been excellent, clicking at 27.3% - the fifth-best percentage in the league. Pieniniemi has been its quarterback, tied for the league lead with nine powerplay assists. I’m more interested in how he fares continually deployed in high-pressure defensive situations: he’ll be depended on heavily in Kingston and for Team Finland at the World Juniors.

Kevin He, LW, Niagara IceDogs (Winnipeg Jets)

DOB: Apr. 30th, 2006 H/W: 6-0/181 Draft: 2024, Rd. 4, 109th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 64 GP - 31 G - 22 A - 53 PTS

The IceDogs sit atop the Eastern Conference with 11 wins in their first 15 games, largely due to the exceptional start Kevin He is enjoying. The Jets prospect’s 23 points put him sixth in league scoring and he has a hand in 38% of Niagara’s 60 goals. Confidence has never been a problem for the speedy winger: He has been one of Niagara’s best players from the minute he stepped into the league. What’s most noticeable this season is his intensity on the ice. The shooting threat has always been there, but he has been able to generate more offence through his work on the forecheck and in the corners.

The addition of 20-year-old Kraken prospect Andrei Loshko has undoubtedly boosted the team’s offence, but it shouldn’t undermine He’s success. Incredibly, 21 of his 23 points thus far have been primary.

An electric six-point outing in early October against the powerhouse Steelheads put him on the radar as a potential fourth-round steal:

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Ethan Procyszyn, C, North Bay Battalion (Anaheim Ducks)

DOB: July. 11th, 2005 H/W: 6-3/192 Draft: 2024, Rd. 3, 68th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 78 GP - 17 G - 25 A - 42 PTS

With the departure of overage centerman Dalyn Wakely to Barrie, Procyszyn immediately slots in on the Troops’ top unit between Owen Van Steensel and Anthony Romani. The OVS-Wakely-Romani line was one of the league’s best last season, combining for over 300 points. It’s unclear which direction North Bay is heading toward come the trade deadline, but the Ducks’ third-round pick in 2024 will get an extended look with veteran players surrounding him.

“If there is one player in this entire draft class born to be an elite fourth-line center, it’s Procyszyn.”

That’s how Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, described the Battalion’s new top pivot in McKeen’s 2024 NHL Draft guide. Procyszyn has continued to display his elite physical tools this season and I would contend his small-area puck skills have improved in the offseason. He has been very effective net-front on the PP1:

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ethan-Procyszyn-mix.mp4

The Wasaga Beach native’s 12 goals currently lead the Battalion through 16 contests. Whether or not there are departures in North Bay before the trade deadline, Procyszyn will have ample time to develop there this season.

Luca Marrelli, RHD, Oshawa Generals (Columbus Blue Jackets)

DOB: Oct. 4th, 2005 H/W: 6-2/185 Draft: 2024, Rd. 3, 86th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 88 GP - 8 G - 62 A - 70 PTS

Oshawa struggled out the gate but Marrelli has been excellent, leading all OHL defencemen with 23 points after 16 games. His offensive tools look more refined this season and he’s visibly more confident attacking the net. The Generals have been spectacular at even strength with the 19-year-old on the ice, outscoring opponents 27-8.

The team’s trademark under Derek Laxdal was their defensive solidity around goaltender Jacob Oster. With Marrelli, Oster, Ben Danford, Luca D’Amato, and Zachary Sandu returning, that should be the case again under new bench boss Steve O’Rourke. Despite his impressive box score stats, Marrelli has always been more of a steady, well-rounded rearguard. While other players on this list have leaps and bounds left to make in their development, the Blue Jackets prospect already has a strong idea of his identity on the ice.

Colby Barlow and Beckett Sennecke are heating up, Marrelli is playing the best hockey of his career, and Cal Ritchie has returned from the Avalanche. The City of Oshawa wants their 14th OHL Championship.

Henry Mews, RHD, Ottawa 67's (Calgary Flames)

DOB: Mar. 9th, 2005 H/W: 6-0/187 Draft: 2024, Rd. 3, 74th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 75 GP - 17 G - 49 A - 66 PTS

The seventh overall selection in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Mews entered his draft season as one of the most profiled players eligible. After scoring 12 goals and 31 points as a rookie, he was a projected first-round pick on many lists entering the 2023-24 season. While the offensive side of his game continued to improve, the 67’s defenceman slid down draft boards due to inconsistencies at the other end of the ice.

It has been noted many times that Mews transitioned to defence very late in his minor hockey career, and thus has more room to grow. This may be a make-or-break season for the Flames’ third-round pick: either he rounds out his game or pops enough offensively to become a Hunter Brzustewicz-type defenseman. There is certainly value to be found here as a third-round selection.

Colin Fitzgerald, C, Peterborough Petes

DOB: Apr. 1st, 2008 H/W: 6-2/194

2023-24 Stats* (OMHA U16): 43 GP - 52 G - 33 A - 85 PTS

The Petes gambled taking Fitzgerald third overall in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection - a gamble already paying them dividends. Tendered to the USHL’s Green Bay Gamblers, the Minor Petes alumni decided to sign with his hometown team and was arguably their best player through 12 games before heading off to the U17s.

Standing at 6-2, 195 pounds, Fitzgerald can already match up against veteran players. He’s engaged in all areas of the ice and uses his reach effectively to protect the puck. He’s already proving a hassle beneath the hash marks:

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Peterborough doesn’t have any NHL-affiliated prospects—thus his inclusion in the list—but they possess one of the best ‘07 groups in the league. They unloaded at the trade deadline last season, acquiring 2023 first-round picks Caden Taylor (9th overall), Nico Addy (12th), and Aiden Young (16th) to join 13th-overall selection Carson Cameron.

Winless through their first 14 matchups, there’s a good chance the Petes are at the precipice of a historically bad season. What that means for Fitzgerald - and the rest of the ’08s and ’07s - is plenty of ice time and a long leash to learn from their mistakes.

Kieron Walton, F, Sudbury Wolves, (Winnipeg Jets)

DOB: Apr. 22nd, 2006 H/W: 6-6/212 Draft: 2024, Rd. 6, 187th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 74 GP - 18 G - 25 A - 43 PTS

The Jets grabbing Walton in the sixth round in Vegas was one of my favourite picks at the 2024 NHL Draft. The Wolves forward is a low-risk, high-reward selection: he possesses immense physical tools and can produce moments of brilliance, but there are massive questions surrounding his consistency. Though he was operating in a middle-six role, you never knew what version of Walton you were getting in his draft year:

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With 19 points in his first 15 games, the Toronto native has started the season well. He’s looked more dangerous from a standstill - four of his six goals have come on the powerplay - and is playing on Kocha Delic’s wing on the first line. Walton is still only averaging well under a hit per game, though. If the Jets are to unlock his potential, they must help him utilize his 6-5, 211-pound frame.

Carey Terrance, C, Erie Otters (Anaheim Ducks)

DOB: May 10th, 2005 H/W: 6-1/186 Draft: 2023, Rd. 2, 59th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 62 GP - 31 G - 25 A - 56 PTS

200 games into Carey Terrance’s OHL career, we have a strong idea of his qualities as a prospect: the 2023 second-round pick possesses some of the best straight-line speed in junior hockey and it allows him to be an efficient scorer and penalty killer. He’s stood out on an Otters team that has finished 17th, 19th, and 11th since he entered the league in 2021; now there is plenty of talent around him.

Between Terrance, Gabriel Frasca, and overage forwards Pano Fimis and Martin Misiak, Erie needs to solidify a top-9. If the Otters are to compete in the Midwest Division this season, Terrance needs to help them form an elite 1-2 punch down the middle.

Appointed as captain at the beginning of the season, there is certainly pressure on his shoulders. In his final year in Erie, I’m looking for the Ducks prospect to prove himself as one of the league’s best two-way pivots.

Nathan Aspinall, LW, Flint Firebirds (New York Rangers)

DOB: Mar. 30th, 2006 H/W: 6-7/195 Draft: 2024, Rd. 5, 159th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 69 GP - 19 G - 16 A - 35 PTS

Given how much the organization prioritizes size at the draft, few were surprised when the Rangers selected 6-7, 190-pound Aspinall with the 159th pick this past June. The Firebirds winger profiles similar to many players his size: he brings a heavy shot and great reach, but lacks consistency. New York has experience working with this type of player: they can aid him as he grows into his own body and starts to take over physically in the OHL.

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Aspinall can look to the Rangers' 2023 pick Dylan Roobroeck as a model of how a big-bodied forward can develop. Also standing at 6-7, the 20-year-old exploded offensively near the tail end of last season and was one of the Generals' best players on their run to the OHL Championship Finals.

Vilmer Alriksson, LW, Guelph Storm (Vancouver Canucks)

DOB: Feb. 18th, 2005 H/W: 6-6/234 Draft: 2023, Rd. 4, 107th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 71 GP - 18 G - 16 A - 34 PTS

Alriksson’s first season in North America was just ok. There were flashes of supreme skill, but his totals of 18 goals and 16 assists across 71 regular season and playoff games do not jump off the page. The big Swede drives to the net like a freight train and has solid hands in tight. At Canucks rookie camp, Alriksson played without fear, dominating around the net and mixing it up after the whistle.

Backhand beauty from Vilmer Alriksson :pinched_fingers: pic.twitter.com/QmCbxSQLmH

— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) September 15, 2024

Vancouver GM Patrick Alvin liked what he saw at camp enough to sign the 2023 fourth-round pick to his entry-level contract before returning him to Guelph.

“Vilmer had a solid training camp and continues to develop and improve,” said Alvin in September. “We really like his size, skating ability and skillset.”

There are rumours that 2024 first-round pick Jett Luchanko will be traded from Guelph. Whether or not the Flyers prospect remains with the Storm will play a large role in how this year goes for Alriksson. A move to a more competitive team - even alongside Luchanko - is also a distinct possibility.

Trent Swick, LW, Kitchener Rangers (Vegas Golden Knights)

DOB: Apr. 25th, 2004 H/W: 6-6/208 Draft: 2024, Rd. 6, 180th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 70 GP - 30 G - 37 A - 67 PTS

The Blueshirts lost a lot of firepower in the offseason, saying goodbye to their three top scorers in Rehkopf, Hunter Brzustewicz and Matthew Sop - as well as Filip Mešár and Eduard Šalé. As a result, Swick will carry a far greater offensive burden this year. The 20-year-old took a massive step in production last season - from 18 points in 33 games (0.55 PTS/G) to 62 in 63 (0.98). Much of that increase can be attributed to Swick’s improvements in overall quickness. His 6-7 frame makes him a threat driving through traffic, but he’s also become much more proficient at cutting inside and picking out corners.

Despite the summer of outgoings, the Rangers are in first place a month into this season. Swick has slotted onto the top line alongside leading scorer Adrian Misaljevic and 2025 NHL Draft-eligible Luca Romano. Since his return, Kitchener is 11-0-0-1 and his line has combined on 19 of Kitchener’s 53 goals (35.8%).

Sam O’Reilly, F, London Knights (Edmonton Oilers)

DOB: Mar. 30th, 2006 H/W: 6-1/190 Draft: 2024, Rd. 1, 32nd ov.

2023-24 Stats: 84 GP - 25 G - 43 A - 68 PTS

Every season, a player has a “breakout” year for the Knights. Buried underneath all the talent constantly coming through the pipeline in London, second and third-year players often take a massive jump in production and notoriety when given more opportunities. Easton Cowan is one example; Oliver Bonk, Luke Evangelista, Liam Foudy - the list goes on.

That wasn’t the case for Sam O’Reilly. The Oilers first-round pick enjoyed large stints of London’s championship run as a center in the top six. He and Jacob Julien were the team's top two centers during Kaleb Lawrence’s suspensions in the second and third rounds. Easton Cowan and Denver Barkey were mostly used on the wing - though Cowan played center in the Memorial Cup with O’Reilly on his flank.

It’s unclear who the Knights will deploy there this season: O’Reilly, Cowan, Barkey, Julien, William Nicholl, Evan Van Gorp, Rene Van Bommel, Landon Sim, and 2024 first-round pick Logan Hawery are all capable. Regardless of position, O’Reilly will be a fixture in the Knights’ top six this season as they defend their throne as OHL champions.

Carter George, G, Owen Sound Attack (LA Kings)

DOB: May 20th, 2006 H/W: 6-1/190 Draft: 2024, Rd. 2, 57th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 60 GP, 23-9-6-3, .907 S%, 3.30 GAA, 4 SO

It was trial by fire for George in his rookie year in the OHL: the Thunder Bay native turned aside more shots than any goaltender in North America’s four major junior leagues last season (CHL and USHL). The Attack netminder stopped 1,744 of the 1,923 attempts he faced - an average of 31 per game. On 19 occasions, he faced more than 38 shots a night.

With how things are shaping up in Owen Sound so far, the Kings prospect will continue to face a lot of rubber in his sophomore season. There is a strong chance the attack will also be sellers by the trade deadline. It’s not necessarily bad for George’s development, though: ice time is the most important thing for goaltenders and the 18-year-old tends to thrive under pressure. He is an exceptionally smart and technically sound goaltender who manages scrambles and shots through traffic well. Despite starting 60 of a possible 72 games last season, he was consistently tremendous, never giving up on a play. As long as the Attack have George in between the pipes, he gives them a chance to win every night.

Joey Willis, C, Saginaw Spirit (Nashville Predators)

DOB: Mar. 14th, 2005 H/W: 5-11/185 Draft: 2023, Rd. 4, 111th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 83 GP - 18 G - 43 A - 61 PTS

After playing up and down the lineup in the Spirit’s run to their first Memorial Cup championship in June, the Preds 2023 fourth-rounder has nailed down a spot in Saginaw’s top six this season. Willis’ game is built around his intelligence: which has served him well during his tenure in the OHL. The Spirit play a fluid 1-3-1 system when attacking, with players constantly swapping positions, and it suits the 19-year-old.

Willis is a crafty player, always popping up in dangerous areas and digging for pucks. He became more and more effective as the year progressed, coming up with timely scoring in the postseason. He does terrific work around the net for a player his size - and I think his shot, which is accurate but not powerful - will continue to improve as he matures.

Currently centring the second line behind the scorching-hot Michael Misa, Willis’ production hasn’t taken a substantial step this season, but he is on the top powerplay unit. There may not be massive signs of improvement here, but I can see his game going to the next level if the Spirit decide to take another run at it - he’s a player who rises to the occasion.

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Lukas Fischer, LHD, Sarnia Sting (St. Louis Blues)

DOB: Sep. 9th, 2006 H/W: 6-3/184 Draft: 2024, Rd. 2, 56th ov.

2023-24 Stats: 68 GP - 6 G - 28 A - 34 PTS

The Sting are still a team in transition following their run to the Western Conference Finals in 2023 but are set up to be a real problem in years ahead. Sarnia made out of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection like bandits, walking away with two first-round talents in Alessandro Di Iorio and Beckham Edwards. After picking Di Iorio with the second overall pick, they convinced Edwards - who had tendered with the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms - to commit to the program.

It’s been a trial-by-fire for both ‘08-born centermen, who’ve been thrust right into top-9 roles behind veteran Easton Wainwright. Di Iorio and Edwards have met nearly every challenge they’ve faced so far, combining for 20 points in their first 14 junior hockey games.

Earning the ‘C’ in his third season, Fischer has the chance to lead a young Sting team into a new era in Sarnia. As the indisputable 1D on a rebuilding team, the 18-year-old will have ample room to develop all areas of his game. He’s got a solid foundation of physical skills, with plenty of room to grow into his 6-3 frame, and has always been reliable in his own end. He doesn’t overhandle the puck and makes an excellent first pass. This season, Fischer looks more confident as a puck carrier, he’s joining the rush more and has even finished off a few plays in front of the net.

Andrew Gibson, RHD, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (Nashville Predators)

DOB: Feb. 13th, 2005 H/W: 6-3/210 Draft: 2023, Rd. 2, 42nd ov.

2023-24 Stats: 79 GP - 12 G - 34 A - 46 PTS

The Red Wings’ 2023 second-round pick was acquired by Nashville in June, joining the Preds conveyor belt of defensive prospects. Gibson started to show the qualities that made him a top prospect more consistently last season, operating as the Greyhounds’s go-to shutdown guy. He moves his 6-3, 203-pound frame around well and is always engaged physically.

With a mass exodus of stars in the summer, Gibson leads a new-look Hounds team into a new era. Reinforcements arrived from Tuscon last week, however: Utah HC prospects Owen Allard and Noel Nordh were assigned to the Soo from the AHL’s Roadrunners. They’ve massively helped the team’s powerplay, improving from 3.1% to 9.1% in just a few games. I’d like to see Gibson improve as a puck mover as the anchor of the top unit - especially if he has World Juniors aspirations.

AJ Spellacy, F, Windsor Spitfires (Chicago Blackhawks)

DOB: Feb. 24th, 2006 H/W: 6-3/201 Draft: 2024, Rd. 3, 72nd ov.

2023-24 Stats: 67 GP - 21 G - 17 A - 38 PTS

The 2024 third-round pick was the story of the Blackhawks' training camp, outlasting all other junior players attending. Spellacy turned heads with his hard-hitting and suffocating forecheck, facilitated by his tremendous speed. The American forward is a unique case study of a prospect. As a high school football prospect with multiple offers from D1 schools, he only began focusing on hockey exclusively upon joining the Spits. He also missed out on the final 20 games of his rookie season with a knee injury.

The factors surrounding Spellacy’s development make him a fascinating player to watch. He has a tremendous athletic profile and has always stood out with his flashy skating, but he’s putting it all together in real time. The Spitfires struggled last season, which resulted in inconsistent production for the then-draft-eligible, but you’re starting to see the final product now that they lead the OHL.

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MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – ANAHEIM DUCKS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #4

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Brock Otten — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 13:00:10 +0000

_{LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 13: Anaheim Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger (51) skates with the puck during an NHL game against the Los Angeles Kings on April 13, 2024 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 4th (Previous Rank - 7th)
GM: Pat Verbeek Hired: February 2022
COACH: Greg Cronin Hired: June 2023

It’s been seven years since the people of Anaheim have experienced playoff hockey. While this drought may be frustrating, the silver lining is the organization has now churned out one of the more potent prospect pipelines in the entire NHL.

The Ducks have elevated their prospect pool significantly, now boasting three players in McKeen’s top 30 rankings. Leading the charge is Olen Zellweger (ranked 22nd), who made waves in his rookie campaign on the San Diego Gulls’ blueline. GM Pat Verbeek continued to stockpile talent by acquiring high-pedigree names such as Cutter Gauthier (ranked 6th) via the Jamie Drysdale trade and drafting Beckett Sennecke (ranked 28th) with the third overall pick at the 2024 NHL Draft.

Zellweger, who split time between Anaheim and San Diego last season, is now competing with fellow rising star and 2023-24 graduate Pavel Mintyukov for a top four spot on the Ducks’ roating six. Gauthier, a Hobey Baker Finalist, joins the Ducks full-time after an impressive NCAA career, tallying 102 points in 73 games. He’s already made his presence felt by picking up an assist in his first NHL game. Meanwhile, Sennecke will continue his development with the Oshawa Generals in the OHL.

On the farm, prospects such as Sasha Pastujov (244th), Jan Myšák, Tyson Hinds (254th), Nathan Gaucher (201st), and Tristan Luneau (84th) are either starting or continuing to build their AHL careers with an eye on future NHL opportunities. Verbeek also added some intriguing talent to the pipeline through the draft, including defencemen Stian Solberg (88th) and Tarin Smith (269th). Both bring contrasting styles of play but add intriguing depth and versatility to the Ducks’ future defensive core.

As the team explores potential trade options for longtime goaltender John Gibson, Lukas Dostal has officially staked his claim as the NHL backup. Meanwhile, Damian Clara, the club’s 2023 second-round pick, continues to shine overseas. As a rookie goaltender in the Allsvenskan, Clara posted an incredible 25-8-0 record and went 10-1-0 in the playoffs, securing a championship and promotion to the SHL. He was named Rookie of the Year for his efforts.

The Ducks now boast one of the top prospect systems in the NHL, and their youthful core is already showing great promise. With Leo Carlsson (19), Mason McTavish (21), Pavel Mintyukov (20), Troy Terry (26), and Trevor Zegras (23) leading the charge—Zegras’s situation still to be determined—the Ducks are set for a bright future filled with skill, youth, and excitement.

Anaheim Ducks Top-15 Prospects

1. Cutter Gauthier

The Ducks and Flyers shocked the hockey world when they pulled off a blockbuster at the beginning of January. Anaheim sent often injured younger defender Jamie Drysdale to Philadelphia and Philadelphia sent top prospect Cutter Gauthier to Anaheim. Gauthier was coming off a gold medal victory with Team USA at the IIHF World Juniors, a tournament where he was named the best forward and an all-star. As one of the top young players outside of the NHL, Gauthier has vaulted to the top of Anaheim’s star-studded prospect pool. He had a remarkable sophomore season for Boston College and was a Hobey Baker candidate. His 37 goals were the second most scored in the NCAA in the last 25 years. He excels as a North/South attacker because of his strong skating ability, coupled with his dynamic goal scoring ability. Whether he plays center or wing at the pro level remains to be seen, but his two-way ability also shows significant potential. Gauthier has signed with Anaheim and has a good chance of earning a top nine role this season; he is a preseason Calder favourite.

2. Olen Zellweger

Zellweger’s transition to the pro level was pretty seamless. He really gained confidence through a late season callup to Anaheim. An AHL all-star last season, Anaheim was able to be patient with Olen given their depth and position in the standings. This really helped him gain confidence in his ability to defend at the pro level, which was the only truly questionable part of his game coming into the year. There was no question that the offensive ability would translate, but could he excel in the defensive end? The answer to that question was yes…at least at the AHL level. The late season callup to the NHL proved he still has work to do to defend at that level. A tremendous four-way mover, Zellweger rarely gets boxed in the defensive zone and is a breakout machine. He also uses said mobility to quarterback the powerplay with remarkably efficiency. A heads-up passer and high IQ player, it seems inevitable at this point that Zellweger will become a high-end offensive defender at the NHL level…perhaps as early as next season. His ability to add strength and improve his physical intensity will dictate his ultimate ceiling as a two-way player.

3. Beckett Sennecke

The Ducks shocked the hockey world (and Sennecke himself) when they selected him at third overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. The lanky winger oozes upside due to his athleticism and rare combination of size and skill. On the back of a tremendous second half performance (including the playoffs), Sennecke rocketed up draft boards late in the year. The Oshawa Generals forward is the complete package as a potential power winger. He is explosive on his edges and moves well for a bigger player who has recently undergone a massive growth spurt. He is creative and skilled with the puck, capable of consistently escaping pressure. He shows well as both a goal scorer and a playmaker, exhibiting better vision and passing ability than your average bigger winger. The key for Sennecke is to bulk up to add strength to his frame, helping him be a more consistent off puck player. He will most certainly return to Oshawa this year in hopes of becoming one of the league’s elite players. He has the upside to be a longtime top six forward for Anaheim.

4. Tristan Luneau

Last season was a bit of a year to forget for Luneau. The former QMJHL defender of the year started the year well and even earned ice time in Anaheim. He was then loaned to Team Canada for the World Junior Championships and that’s when things went downhill. Luneau contracted the flu, then acquired a serious knee infection that saw him hospitalized. This effectively ended his season. But such a flukey thing does not tarnish Luneau’s upside or his likelihood of becoming a high-end NHL defender. The strong skating, two-way defender is a high-end processor whose offensive game and puck carrying ability have improved greatly since being selected by Anaheim in the second round. He will never be confused for a physical stalwart, but he uses his mobility and defensive awareness to keep the play in front of him. Hopefully Luneau can come to camp healthy this year and battle for a roster spot again. Although last year’s issues may cause Anaheim to be patient with Luneau, meaning that an AHL stint may be in store for him just as it was for Zellweger last season.

5. Stian Solberg

Whenever a team trades up to secure a player’s rights, it’s an indication of how greatly said team coveted said player. Insert physical Norwegian defender Stian Solberg, who the Ducks moved up to 23rd to select. Much like third overall pick Beckett Sennecke, Solberg was a late riser thanks to his strong performance at the World Championships for Norway. Solberg is a modern-day shutdown defender thanks to his size, mobility, and physical approach. He flashes greater upside as an offensive player and that will be the focus for him this coming season as he leaves Norway for Sweden; he has signed to play with Farjestad of the SHL. Solberg had struggles with his decision making with the puck at times this year and will need to work to make quicker decisions under pressure. Anaheim is hoping that Solberg can grow in Sweden the same way Moritz Seider did when he left Germany to aid in his development.

6. Damian Clara

The Big Italian netminder had an excellent draft plus one year in Sweden playing for Brynas of the Allsvenskan. Despite being only 19, he established himself as one of the top netminders in the league and was subsequently named the league’s top junior (or new player/ROY). An excellent athlete for his size, Clara has terrific upside as an NHL netminder, a reason why he was selected in the second round by the Ducks last year. Next year, Clara will take his talents to the SHL with Farjestad (playing along with recent first rounder Stian Solberg); a logical stepping stone to one day playing in the NHL. Clara is an impressive athlete for a bigger netminder, but the focus will be on refining that athleticism to make him a more consistent stopper. If he can replicate his success in the SHL, he’ll push his way to the top of many goaltending prospect lists.

7. Sam Colangelo

Lots of discussion about the NCAA’s transfer portal in recent months, but it’s designed to help players like Colangelo. It was obvious that his game had plateaued at Northeastern, and a move to Western Michigan helped to truly unlock Colangelo's potential as a power forward. He led WMU in goal scoring last year and has worked hard to put himself back on the map as a potential middle six player for the Ducks in the future. After a late season signing, Colangelo actually scored his first career NHL goal and proved that he might just be ready to battle for a roster spot this coming season. His transition to the pro level should be pretty seamless given his strength, strong two-way ability, and high IQ. However, there’s also a chance that Anaheim would prefer to see him play out some time in the AHL with more offensive responsibility, rather than have him see limited minutes with the big club.

8. Nathan Gaucher

Last season was Gaucher’s first as a pro with San Diego of the AHL and the offensive numbers don’t jump off the page at you. That said, Gaucher was never drafted to be an offensive juggernaut. With terrific speed, strength, and two-way awareness, the plan all along was for him to develop into a versatile middle six player for Anaheim who could help shut down the opposition’s best. While the offensive game was inconsistent as a rookie pro, the defensive and physical components of his game still earned praise and that’s what is most important. Anaheim is likely to let Gaucher repeat in the AHL this season, with the goal of improving his offensive production. Then they can ease him into the big club’s lineup slowly in a bottom six role in the future when his offensive confidence is at its highest.

9. Rodwin Dionicio

The selection of Dionicio as a draft re-entry in 2023 is bearing some pretty spectacular fruit early on. Dionicio emerged as one of the OHL’s top defenders last year and won a Memorial Cup with the Saginaw Spirit later in May. Dionicio is an electrifying offensive talent. He routinely carries the puck from end to end, showcasing his high-end puck skill and creativity. As a powerplay quarterback, he consistently helps to breakdown coverage with his ability to work inside, beating pressure at the point. Dionicio is also a highly physical player who has a penchant for the big hit and who makes opposing players earn touches and open space when he is on the ice. The decision making still wavers; he is and can be a high risk/high reward player. As such, the transition to the pro level could be challenging for him. However, with patience, he could become a very productive and entertaining NHL player.

10. Lucas Pettersson

A strong skating, two-way pivot, Pettersson was the 35th overall pick by the Ducks in the most recent NHL draft. He excels on both sides of the puck thanks to a high IQ. Offensively, Pettersson is equal parts goal scorer and playmaker and he has a terrific understanding of how to leverage his speed to create chances. Defensively, he competes hard in puck pursuit and can be counted upon in all situations. Despite being recently selected by Saginaw in the CHL’s Import Draft, the expectation is still that Pettersson returns to Sweden to make MoDo full time in the SHL. Even if it’s in a limited role, earning full time minutes in the SHL would be crucial for Pettersson’s development as he learns to adjust to the speed and strength of the pro game. He looks to have upside as a potential middle six contributor for Anaheim in the future.

11. Carey Terrance

Terrance is a speedy and versatile two-way forward. Moving forward, the key for Terrance is finding consistency offensively. If he can find a way to truly unlock his speed and improve his puck skill and carrying ability, Terrance could end up improving his outlook and upside as a pro. If not, he could still end up a very valuable bottom six player and penalty killer ala Paul Byron.

12. Yegor Sidorov

Sidorov just keeps getting better and it’s improving his outlook and progression as an NHL player. He upped his physical intensity level and it resulted in greater consistency as a scorer and play driver. Sidorov is highly creative with the puck and his quick release gives him great upside as a scorer at the pro level. Sidorov will turn pro next year, likely playing in the AHL in order to adjust to the pace of the pro game and the size/strength of pro level players.

13. Sasha Pastujov

His transition to the pro level has definitely been a bit of a bumpy ride. However, Pastujov closed out last year on a major high and that’s provided a lot of optimism about his future. Pastujov is still such a dangerous player in small spaces because of his quick hands and quick release. Ultimately, how much he can improve his skating and off-puck play will be the key to him becoming an NHL player in the future for the Ducks.

14. Tyson Hinds

Much to the surprise of no one, Hinds, the former winner of the QMJHL’s Kevin Lowe trophy (as the QMJHL’s top defensive defender), was an immediately impactful player on the defensive side of things at the pro level last year. However, his offensive game showed some growing pains and that will be the focus in his second pro year, to improve his decision making and confidence with the puck.

15. Maxim Masse

An early third round selection by Anaheim in 2024, Masse was originally thought to be the top player eligible from the QMJHL, but he slipped to 66th due to concerns over his pace and skating ability. A confident goal scorer, Masse will look to round out his game and improve his quickness in the QMJHL this coming season. Similar to the chance Anaheim took on Sasha Pastujov, the Ducks will be hoping Masse can eventually contribute as a middle six winger.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #7 Anaheim Ducks – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Player Profiles - Brock Otten, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 15:04:53 +0000

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 13: Anaheim Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger (51) skates with the puck during an NHL game against the Los Angeles Kings on April 13, 2024 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Icon Sportswire)

The Anaheim Ducks have now missed the playoffs for six straight years, never finishing higher than sixth in their division. In the second season under GM Pat Verbeek, he continued much as he did in his first, moving out veterans at the deadline for picks and prospects. This year saw Sam Carrick and Adam Henrique end up on the Oilers for a first-round pick and a fifth. The years of futility have returned high draft pick after high draft pick and 2024 will be no different with the third overall pick. They have now picked second overall (2023 – Leo Carlsson), 10th (2022 – Pavel Mintyukov), third (2021 – Mason McTavish), sixth (2020 – Jamie Drysdale) and ninth (2019 – Trevor Zegras). All of those picks have graduated to the NHL, yet the organization ranks seventh among NHL teams in prospect strength, leaving arguably the deepest group of young potential stars in the league. Drysdale (along with a second-round pick) was moved for the 4th overall ranked affiliated prospect in Cutter Gauthier, and he is expected to make an impact in the NHL as soon as next season. A second-round pick in 2021, Olen Zellweger (ranked 15th by McKeens), is also on the cusp of making the team after appearing in 26 games last year.

The Ducks have the most graduations in the last five drafts in the NHL. That will not change anytime soon, as next year’s third overall pick will be a high-end player that should see the NHL before too long joining Gauthier and Zellweger. They are also in no danger of falling out of the rankings for the best prospect pool with seven picks in the first three rounds of the 2024 NHL Draft. They also have a deep pool to draw on with nine of their top ten prospects ranked with our top 200.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Cutter Gauthier	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	T(Phi-1/24)	41	38	27	65	18
2	Olen Zellweger	D	20	5-9/180	San Diego (AHL)	`21(34th)	44	12	25	37	16
					Anaheim (NHL)	`21(34th)	26	2	7	9	4
3	Tristan Luneau	D	20	6-1/195	Anaheim (NHL)	`22(53rd)	7	1	2	3	4
					San Diego (AHL)	`22(53rd)	6	0	2	2	2
4	Nathan Gaucher	C	20	6-3/207	San Diego (AHL)	`22(22nd)	72	10	15	25	68
5	Rodwin Dionicio	D	20	6-2/207	Wsr-Sag (OHL)	`23(129th)	60	25	48	73	108
6	Damian Clara	G	19	6-6/214	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	`23(60th)	34	25	8	2.23	0.913
7	Yegor Sidorov	RW	19	6-0/180	Saskatoon (WHL)	`23(85th)	66	50	38	88	66
8	Carey Terrance	C	18	6-1/175	Erie (OHL)	`23(59th)	56	29	23	52	25
9	Sam Colangelo	RW	21	6-2/205	Western Michigan (NCHC)	`20(36th)	38	24	19	43	23
10	Sasha Pastujov	RW	20	6-0/187	San Diego (AHL)	`21(66th)	46	10	13	23	14
11	Tyson Hinds	D	21	6-3/188	San Diego (AHL)	`21(76th)	71	2	8	10	42
12	Nico Myatovic	LW	19	6-2/180	Seattle (WHL)	`23(33rd)	34	9	21	30	20
13	Coulson Pitre	RW	19	6-1/170	Flint (OHL)	`23(65th)	55	27	28	55	41
14	Noah Warren	D	19	6-4/216	Victoriaville (QMJHL)	`22(42nd)	50	6	7	13	35
15	Drew Helleson	D	23	6-3/205	San Diego (AHL)	T(Col-3/22)	59	4	14	18	44

1. Cutter Gauthier, LW, Boston College (NCAA)

The Ducks and Flyers shocked the hockey world when they pulled off a blockbuster at the beginning of January. Anaheim sent often injured young defender Jamie Drysdale to Philadelphia in return for top prospect Cutter Gauthier. Coming off a gold medal victory with Team USA at the IIHF World Juniors, and named the best forward and an all-star, he has vaulted to the top of Anaheim’s star-studded prospect pool. He’s had a remarkable sophomore season for Boston College and is a Hobey Baker candidate. His 37 goals are the second most scored in the NCAA in the last 25 years. He excels as a North/South attacker because of his strong skating ability, coupled with his dynamic goal scoring ability. Whether he plays center or wing at the pro level remains to be seen, regardless where he plays, his two-way ability shows significant potential. Unquestionably turning pro at the conclusion of this season, he could be an impact player as early as next year.

2. Olen Zellweger, D, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

Zellweger’s transition to the pro level has been pretty seamless and it resulted in a late season call up. An AHL all-star this season, Anaheim was able to be patient with Olen given their depth and position in the standings. This has helped him gain confidence in his ability to defend at the pro level, which was the only truly questionable part of his game coming into the year. There was no question about his offensive ability, but could he excel in the defensive end? The answer to that question has been yes…at least at the AHL level. A tremendous four-way mover, Zellweger rarely gets boxed in the defensive zone and is a breakout machine. He also uses said mobility to quarterback the powerplay with remarkably efficiency. A heads-up passer and high IQ player, it seems inevitable he will become a high-end offensive defender at the NHL level…perhaps as early as next season. His ability to add strength and improve his physical intensity will dictate his ultimate ceiling as a two-way player.

3. Tristan Luneau, D, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

It’s been a bit of a year to forget for Luneau. The former QMJHL defender of the year started well and even earned ice time in Anaheim. He was then loaned to Team Canada for the World Junior Championships and that’s when things went downhill. Luneau contracted the flu, then acquired a serious knee infection that saw him hospitalized. This effectively ended his season. But such a flukey thing does not tarnish Luneau’s upside or his likelihood of becoming a high-end NHL defender. The strong skating, two-way defender is a high-end processor whose offensive game and puck carrying ability have improved greatly since being selected in the second round. He will never be confused for a physical stalwart, but he uses his mobility and defensive awareness to keep the play in front of him. While there is hope he can battle for a roster spot, this year’s issues may cause Anaheim to be patient, meaning that an AHL stint may be in store just as it was for Zellweger this season.

4. Nathan Gaucher, C, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

Gaucher is finishing up his first season as a pro with San Diego of the AHL and the offensive numbers don’t jump off the page at you. That said, Gaucher was never drafted to be an offensive juggernaut. With terrific speed, strength, and two-way awareness, the plan all along was for him to develop into a versatile middle six player for Anaheim who could help shut down the opposition’s best. While the offensive game has been inconsistent as a rookie pro, the defensive and physical components of his game have still earned praise and that’s what is most important. Anaheim is likely to let Gaucher repeat in the AHL next season, with the goal of improving his offensive production. Then they can ease him into the big club’s lineup slowly in a bottom six role in the future when his offensive confidence is at its highest.

5. Rodwin Dionicio, D, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

The selection of Dionicio as a draft re-entry last year is bearing some pretty spectacular fruit early on. Dionicio has emerged as one of the OHL’s top defenders and will be playing for a Memorial Cup with the Saginaw Spirit later in May. Dionicio is an electrifying offensive talent. He routinely carries the puck from end to end, showcasing his high-end puck skill and creativity. As a powerplay quarterback, he consistently helps to breakdown coverage with his ability to work inside, beating pressure at the point. Dionicio is also a highly physical player who has a penchant for the big hit and who makes opposing players earn touches and open space when he is on the ice. The decision making still wavers; he is and can be a high risk/high reward player. As such, the transition to the pro level could be challenging for him. However, with patience, he could become a very productive and entertaining NHL player.

6. Damian Clara, G, Brynas IF (HockeyAllsvenskan)

The Big Italian netminder has had an excellent draft plus one year in Sweden playing for Brynas of the Allsvenskan. Despite being only 19, he established himself as one of the top netminders in the league and was subsequently named the league’s top junior (or new player/ROY). He also helped Brynas get promoted to the SHL after posting a .931 SV% and a 1.68 GAA in the Allsvenskan playoffs. An excellent athlete for his size, Clara has terrific upside as an NHL netminder, a reason why he was selected in the second round by the Ducks last year. Next year, Clara will take his talents to the SHL with Farjestad; a logical stepping stone to one day playing in the NHL. If he can replicate his success in the SHL, he’ll push his way to the top of many goaltending prospect lists.

7. Yegor Sidorov, RW, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

Sidorov just keeps getting better and it’s improving his outlook and progression as an NHL player. His 50 goals this year for Saskatoon put him in a tie for fourth in the WHL. Sidorov also currently leads the WHL playoffs in goal scoring, as of writing this profile. He upped his physical intensity level and it resulted in greater consistency as a scorer and play driver. Sidorov is highly creative with the puck and his quick release gives him great upside as a scorer at the pro level. Recently signed by the Ducks, Sidorov will turn pro next year, likely playing in the AHL in order to adjust to the pace of the pro game and the size/strength of pro level players. Realistically, Sidorov is a bit of a boom or bust prospect. His goal scoring prowess will either translate to the NHL level and he'll end up as a top six forward and powerplay option, or he'll end up overseas as a scoring option in a Euro league.

8. Carey Terrance, C, Erie Otters (OHL)

One of the OHL’s most underrated players, Terrance had a good year for the Erie Otters even if he failed to hit the point per game mark. Because of his speed and strong two-way commitment level, he brings such versatility to his coaches. Offensively, his best asset is his shot, something that helped him score 29 goals and lead Erie in goal scoring this year. Terrance also was a member of the U.S.’ gold medal winning WJC squad, but he did not see game action. Moving forward, the key for Terrance is finding consistency offensively. If he can find a way to truly unlock his speed and improve his puck skill and carrying ability, Terrance could end up improving his outlook and upside as a pro. If not, he could still end up a very valuable bottom six player and penalty killer ala Paul Byron.

9. Sam Colangelo, RW, Western Michigan University (NCAA)

Lots of discussion about the NCAA’s transfer portal in recent months, but it’s designed to help players like Colangelo. It was obvious that his game had plateaued at Northeastern, and a move to Western Michigan helped to truly unlock Colangelo's potential as a power forward. He led WMU in goal scoring this year and has worked hard to put himself back on the map as a potential middle six player for the Ducks in the future. Recently signed, Colangelo finished out the year at the pro level with Anaheim and San Diego, even scoring his first NHL goal. He did not look out of place, which should come as no surprise given that his transition to the pro level should be pretty seamless because of his strength, strong two-way ability, and high IQ.

10. Sasha Pastujov, RW, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

Given Pastujov’s lack of dynamic skating ability, there was certainly some concern heading into his first pro season this year. Just how well would he transition to the AHL? It’s definitely been a bit of a bumpy ride. The first half was mired with inconsistency and a lower body injury, but he actually closed out the year on a major high and that’s provided a lot of optimism about his future. Pastujov is still such a dangerous player in small spaces because of his quick hands and quick release. He’s active in puck pursuit in the offensive end and continues to work hard to improve his quickness. Ultimately, how much he can improve his skating and off puck play will be the key to him becoming an NHL player in the future for the Ducks.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 30 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 12:22:26 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first, this ranking, follows the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Our team of 16 scouts are based in key markets around the world, in the rinks, supported by video scouting. They utilize some terrific tools from Hudl/InStat, which can isolate so many aspects of a player’s game, along with proprietary statistics. They spend countless hours in rinks and in front of screens and are deeply familiar with these players and their progression. Our management team of Brock Otten (Director of Scouting) and Derek Neumeier (Assistant Director of Scouting/Senior Western Regional Scout), along with Video Scouting Coordinator, Josh Bell, will take the teams input and finalize the list you see below. Brock, Derek and Josh are responsible for the player write-ups in the Prospect Guide.

The organizational rankings are based on an algorithm that takes into account how many prospects are ranked within the top 200. The teams are broken down by the number of prospects in our top 1 -25, 26 - 50, 51 - 100, and 101 - 200. A weight is attached to each group and then some subjective tweaking is done based on our knowledge of the players. There can be a wider discrepancy in the top 25 group than the latter groupings that needs to be taken into account.

Here is our definition of an NHL prospect: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 NHL games (30 for goalies) and less than 35 in one season (25 for goalies).

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft. We are releasing out top 30 NHL Prospects free to non-subscribers. If you want to learn more, link here.

Subscribers can link to the full top 200 listing here

Here is an excerpt of Brock Otten's Risers and Fallers article from the magazine to give you more perspective and a little taste of our content.

The best part of scouting is the somewhat unpredictable nature of human development. Some players improve dramatically from one year to the next…others do not. When we compare the rankings from our 2023-24 NHL Yearbook (where we did a Top 300 prospect ranking) to now, these are the players who have risen/fallen the most.

Risers

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 22: Dallas Stars center Logan Stankoven (11) reacts to a goal score during game one of the Western Conference First Round between the Dallas Stars and the Vegas Golden Knights on April 22, 2024 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire)

Logan Stankoven (27 to 5) - Dallas Stars

Stankoven’s jump from one of the best players in the WHL to one of the best players in the AHL has been impressive. So has his quick start in the NHL.

Ryan Leonard (32 to 6) – Washington Capitals

Leonard is returning to Boston College after a Championship barely eluded him this year. However, he has proven to be an elite play driver to go with his strong off puck play.

MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 11: Look on Montreal Canadiens right wing Joshua Roy (89) during warm-up before the St. Louis Blues versus the Montreal Canadiens game on February 11, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

Josh Roy (63 to 35) – Montreal Canadiens

Roy continues to prove doubters wrong after a terrific AHL season with Laval. His skill set has become so well rounded since being drafted.

Conor Geekie (68 to 18) – Utah

Geekie’s power game from the middle of the ice makes him such an interesting prospect for today’s NHL. His skating continues to improve.

Mavrik Bourque (79 to 23) – Dallas Stars

Bourque emerged as one of the best players in the AHL this season as a sophomore professional. He’s ready to take that next step with the Stars.

Gabe Perreault (86 to 19) – New York Rangers

Once thought to be the third wheel on the talented Will Smith/Ryan Leonard threesome, Perreault’s progression as a play driver at Boston College this season has altered the perception that he can be a front-line NHL player.

Bradly Nadeau (109 to 34) – Carolina Hurricanes

Drafting early out of the BCHL has yielded inconsistent results, however Nadeau was exceptional as a freshman at Maine. Did he leave school too early though?

Jagger Firkus (112 to 47) – Seattle Kraken

Firkus took his game to another level this year in his final WHL season, leading the league in scoring. He’s ready to be a pro.

Gavin Brindley (122 to 66) – Columbus Blue Jackets

One of the most improved players in the NCAA this year, Brindley emerged as a star for the University of Michigan and really altered his projection as a potential top six forward.

Quentin Musty (125 to 51) – San Jose Sharks

The dynamic American winger worked hard to fine tune components of his game in Sudbury this year and deserves a bump for improving his consistency.

Jani Nyman (135 to 81) – Seattle Kraken

Nyman emerged as one of the top goal scorers in Finland this season as a U20 player. This, combined with his strong WJC performance, has helped push him up our board north.

Logan Mailloux (145 to 45) – Montreal Canadiens

Mailloux proved to be way more refined at the AHL level than previously perceived. Simply put, he was one of the best defensive prospects in the AHL this year.

Josh Doan (153 to 55) - Utah

What a terrific story to the end of the Coyotes franchise. Doan emerged as a potential star this season and finished the year strong in the NHL, scoring in his debut.

Riley Heidt (157 to 44) – Minnesota Wild

We still don’t understand how Heidt fell as far as he did in the 2023 draft, however he is proving NHL scouts wrong thus far after a remarkable year with Prince George.

Ville Koivunen (165 to 71) – Pittsburgh Penguins

The main piece of the Jake Guentzel to Carolina deal, Koivunen emerged as one of the top players in Liiga this year.

Ethan Del Mastro (169 to 73) – Chicago Blackhawks

There was little doubt that Del Mastro’s strong defensive ability would translate to the AHL level well, but he continues to improve offensively and that has altered his projection.

Theo Lindstein (185 to 91) – St. Louis Blues

Lindstein’s strong year for Brynas has helped to elevate his upside as a two-way defender. We may have ranked him too low in our 2023 Draft Rankings.

Carson Rehkopf (201 to 69) – Seattle Kraken

Consistency off the puck and a lack of engagement held Rehkopf back last year. This year marked improvement in those areas helped him emerge as a top offensive talent in the OHL.

Easton Cowan (204 to 67) – Toronto Maple Leafs

One of the surprises of the 2023 draft, Cowan set a new OHL record with a 42-game point streak. More than just a high energy guy now, he can be a difference maker offensively.

Seamus Casey (214 to 63) – New Jersey Devils

Casey continues to improve in the NCAA. He may not have elite size, but he has everything else, and it has the Devils excited about his future.

Jacob Fowler (222 to 52) – Montreal Canadiens

Fowler compiled a list of accolades as a freshman this year at Boston College, emerging as one of the top goaltending prospects in the game.

Fraser Minten (226 to 84) – Toronto Maple Leafs

After starting the year with the Leafs, Minten returned to the WHL and ended up captaining Canada at the World Juniors.

Jackson Blake (277 to 117) – Carolina Hurricanes

A finalist for the Hobey Baker this year, Blake became an NCAA star for North Dakota, and he now turns pro.

Erik Portillo (Unranked to 118) – Los Angeles Kings

Acquired by the Kings, Portillo turned pro after three years at Michigan and he was one of the best goaltenders in the AHL as a first-year pro.

Rodwin Dionicio (Unranked to 139) – Anaheim Ducks

Dionicio still plays a high risk, high reward game from the back end, but his offensive upside has become too large to ignore.

Fallers

EDM - Xavier Bourgault

Xavier Bourgault (from 48 to 113) – Edmonton Oilers

After a mediocre first professional year last season, Bourgault was even more disappointing as a sophomore with Bakersfield. The Oilers just haven’t been developing prospects well in recent years.

Eduard Sale (72 to 140) – Seattle Kraken

Sale’s first year in North America did not go according to plan as he struggled to be a consistent impact player in the OHL.

Jack Rathbone (96 to not ranked) – Pittsburgh Penguins

Perhaps we ranked Rathbone too aggressively this summer, but not only did he fail to earn a spot on Vancouver, but he’s now an NHL after thought after entering Pittsburgh’s organization via trade.

Jacob Perreault (127 to not ranked) – Montreal Canadiens

Perreault’s off puck play and skating just haven’t improved to the point where he can be a consistent pro and it caused the Ducks to move on from him, trading him to Montreal.

Jan Jenik (156 to not ranked) - Utah

Once a highly ranked prospect, Jenik continues to fall. He just hasn’t been able to take that next step and even passed through waivers this year unclaimed.

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17

2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 200 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 25 May 2024 17:02:31 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first is following the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft.

Subscribers can link to the listing here

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17
31	Brad Lambert	Wpg	C	20	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	64	21	34	55	38
32	Ivan Miroshnichenko	Wsh	LW	20	6-1/185	Washington (NHL)	21	2	4	6	6
33	Axel Sandin Pellikka	Det	D	19	5-11/180	Skelleftea (SHL)	39	10	8	18	17
34	Bradly Nadeau	Car	LW	18	5-10/165	Maine (HE)	37	19	27	46	12
35	Joshua Roy	Mtl	RW	20	6-0/190	Montreal (NHL)	23	4	5	9	0
36	Denton Mateychuk	CBJ	D	19	5-11/190	Moose Jaw (WHL)	52	17	58	75	31
37	Brayden Yager	Pit	C	19	5-11/165	Moose Jaw (WHL)	57	35	60	95	20
38	Calum Ritchie	Col	C	19	6-2/185	Oshawa (OHL)	50	28	52	80	20
39	Joakim Kemell	Nsh	RW	20	5-10/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	67	16	25	41	23
40	Colby Barlow	Wpg	LW	19	6-0/195	Owen Sound (OHL)	50	40	18	58	27
41	Jimmy Snuggerud	StL	RW	19	6-1/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	21	13	34	42
42	Matthew Coronato	Cgy	RW	21	5-10/183	Calgary (NHL)	34	3	6	9	4
43	Frank Nazar	Chi	C	20	5-10/180	Michigan (B1G)	41	17	24	41	18
44	Riley Heidt	Min	C	19	5-10/180	Prince George (WHL)	66	37	80	117	42
45	Logan Mailloux	Mtl	D	21	6-3/215	Laval (AHL)	72	14	33	47	91
46	Sebastian Cossa	Det	G	21	6-6/229	Grand Rapids (AHL)	40	22	9	2.41	0.913
47	Jagger Firkus	Sea	RW	20	5-10/155	Moose Jaw (WHL)	63	61	65	126	30
48	Mikhail Gulyayev	Col	D	19	5-11/170	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	64	4	8	12	8
49	Scott Morrow	Car	D	21	6-2/195	Massachusetts (HE)	37	6	24	30	25
50	Matthew Wood	Nsh	RW	19	6-3/195	Connecticut (HE)	35	16	12	28	43
51	Quentin Musty	SJ	LW	18	6-2/200	Sudbury (OHL)	53	43	59	102	72
52	Jacob Fowler	Mtl	G	19	6-1/215	Boston College (HE)	39	32	6	2.14	0.926
53	Fabian Lysell	Bos	RW	21	5-11/181	Providence (AHL)	56	15	35	50	37
54	Shakir Mukhamadullin	SJ	D	22	6-3/180	San Jose (AHL)	55	7	27	34	24
55	Josh Doan	Ari	RW	22	6-1/183	Arizona (NHL)	11	5	4	9	0
56	Thomas Bordeleau	SJ	C	22	5-9/180	San Jose (NHL)	27	6	5	11	18
57	Lian Bichsel	Dal	D	19	6-6/233	Rogle (SHL)	29	2	2	4	28
58	Nikolai Kovalenko	Col	RW	24	5-10/180	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	42	11	24	35	30
59	Aatu Raty	Van	C	21	6-2/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	72	18	34	52	18
60	Oliver Moore	Chi	C	19	5-11/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	9	24	33	8
61	Samuel Honzek	Cgy	LW	19	6-4/186	Vancouver (WHL)	33	10	21	31	18
62	Jakob Pelletier	Cgy	LW	23	5-9/170	Calgary (NHL)	13	1	2	3	2
63	Seamus Casey	NJ	D	20	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	7	38	45	14
64	Tristan Luneau	Ana	D	20	6-1/195	Anaheim (NHL)	7	1	2	3	4
65	Chaz Lucius	Wpg	C	20	6-1/185	Manitoba (AHL)	17	2	11	13	6
66	Gavin Brindley	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	25	28	53	28
67	Easton Cowan	Tor	RW	18	5-10/170	London (OHL)	54	34	62	96	64
68	Zachary L'Heureux	Nsh	LW	20	5-11/195	Milwaukee (AHL)	66	19	29	48	197
69	Carson Rehkopf	Sea	LW	19	6-1/195	Kitchener (OHL)	60	52	43	95	45
70	Filip Bystedt	SJ	C	20	6-4/205	Linkopings (SHL)	47	8	9	17	2
71	Ville Koivunen	Pit	LW	20	6-0/175	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	59	22	34	56	26
72	Noah Ostlund	Buf	C	20	5-11/163	Vaxjo Lakers (SHL)	38	12	11	23	4
73	Ethan Del Mastro	Chi	D	21	6-4/210	Rockford (AHL)	69	7	30	37	54
74	Lukas Cormier	VGK	D	22	5-10/180	Henderson (AHL)	58	4	16	20	33
75	Liam Ohgren	Min	LW	20	6-1/200	Farjestads (SHL)	26	12	7	19	12
76	Marat Khusnutdinov	Min	C	21	5-11/175	Minnesota (NHL)	16	1	3	4	6
77	Mackie Samoskevich	Fla	RW	21	5-11/190	Charlotte (AHL)	62	22	32	54	24
78	Stanislav Svozil	CBJ	D	21	6-1/180	Cleveland (AHL)	57	5	18	23	24
79	Zachary Bolduc	StL	LW	21	6-1/175	St. Louis (NHL)	25	5	4	9	6
80	Rutger McGroarty	Wpg	LW	20	6-1/200	Michigan (B1G)	36	16	36	52	6
81	Jani Nyman	Sea	RW	19	6-3/215	Ilves (Fin-Liiga)	48	26	17	43	2
82	Andrew Cristall	Wsh	LW	19	5-9/165	Kelowna (WHL)	62	40	71	111	46
83	Oliver Bonk	Phi	D	19	6-2/175	London (OHL)	60	24	43	67	32
84	Fraser Minten	Tor	C	19	6-1/185	Kam-Sas (WHL)	43	22	26	48	25
85	Tanner Molendyk	Nsh	D	19	5-11/185	Saskatoon (WHL)	50	10	46	56	18
86	David Goyette	Sea	C	20	5-10/175	Sudbury (OHL)	68	40	77	117	29
87	David Edstrom	SJ	C	19	6-3/185	Frolunda (SHL)	44	7	12	19	8
88	Anton Wahlberg	Buf	C	18	6-3/194	Malmo (SHL)	43	5	5	10	4
89	Emil Andrae	Phi	D	22	5-9/185	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	61	5	27	32	66
90	Trey Augustine	Det	G	19	6-1/185	Michigan State (B1G)	35	23	9	2.96	0.915
91	Theo Lindstein	StL	D	19	6-0/180	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	49	4	11	15	4
92	Mads Sogaard	Ott	G	23	6-7/195	Belleville (AHL)	32	18	9	2.45	0.916
93	Isak Rosen	Buf	RW	21	6-0/175	Rochester (AHL)	67	20	30	50	12
94	Maveric Lamoureux	Ari	D	20	6-7/214	Drummondville (QMJHL)	39	9	24	33	53
95	Drew Commesso	Chi	G	21	6-2/180	Rockford (AHL)	38	18	16	2.65	0.906
96	Ville Heinola	Wpg	D	23	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	41	10	17	27	24
97	Carter Mazur	Det	LW	22	6-0/170	Grand Rapids (AHL)	60	17	20	37	48
98	Otto Stenberg	StL	C	18	5-11/180	Frolunda (SHL)	31	3	3	6	8
99	Egor Afanasyev	Nsh	LW	23	6-3/205	Milwaukee (AHL)	56	27	27	54	60
100	Nikita Chibrikov	Wpg	RW	21	5-10/170	Manitoba (AHL)	70	17	30	47	53
101	Zach Dean	StL	C	21	6-0/175	Springfield (AHL)	49	9	5	14	24
102	William Dufour	NYI	RW	22	6-2/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	55	15	10	25	35
103	Sam Rinzel	Chi	D	19	6-4/180	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	26	28	20
104	Joel Blomqvist	Pit	G	22	6-2/185	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	45	25	12	2.16	0.921
105	Arseni Gritsyuk	NJ	RW	23	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	50	19	19	38	8
106	Corson Ceulemans	CBJ	D	20	6-2/200	Cleveland (AHL)	47	3	9	12	12
107	Michael Hrabal	Ari	G	19	6-6/209	Massachusetts (HE)	30	16	12	2.59	0.912
108	Brendan Brisson	VGK	C	22	5-11/180	Vegas (NHL)	15	2	6	8	2
109	Owen Pickering	Pit	D	20	6-4/180	Swift Current (WHL)	59	7	39	46	35
110	Owen Beck	Mtl	C	20	5-11/185	Pbo-Sag (OHL)	57	34	47	81	18
111	William Wallinder	Det	D	21	6-4/190	Grand Rapids (AHL)	65	3	12	15	10
112	Xavier Bourgault	Edm	C	21	6-0/170	Bakersfield (AHL)	55	8	12	20	24
113	Jordan Dumais	CBJ	RW	20	5-8/165	Halifax (QMJHL)	21	16	31	47	6
114	Aleksi Heimosalmi	Car	D	20	5-11/170	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	47	2	14	16	12
115	Brandon Bussi	Bos	G	25	6-4/218	Providence (AHL)	41	23	10	2.67	0.913
116	Jackson Blake	Car	RW	20	5-10/160	North Dakota (NCHC)	40	22	38	60	26
117	Erik Portillo	LA	G	23	6-6/210	Ontario (AHL)	39	24	11	2.50	0.918
118	Sean Farrell	Mtl	C	22	5-8/175	Laval (AHL)	47	9	19	28	10
119	Kasper Halttunen	SJ	RW	18	6-3/205	London (OHL)	57	32	29	61	61
120	Topi Niemela	Tor	D	22	5-11/165	Toronto (AHL)	68	8	31	39	43
121	Ethan Gauthier	TB	RW	19	5-11/175	Drummondville (QMJHL)	64	36	35	71	42
122	Daniil Miromanov	Cgy	D	26	6-4/200	VGK-Cgy (NHL)	24	3	4	7	8
123	Ruslan Iskhakov	NYI	C	23	5-8/155	Bridgeport (AHL)	69	18	32	50	30
124	Shai Buium	Det	D	21	6-3/210	Denver (NCHC)	43	7	29	36	14
125	Jakub Dobes	Mtl	G	22	6-3/200	Laval (AHL)	51	24	18	2.93	0.906
126	Oliver Kapanen	Mtl	C	20	6-0/170	KalPa (Fin-Liiga)	51	14	20	34	32
127	Danny Nelson	NYI	C	18	6-3/200	Notre Dame (B1G)	30	9	14	23	32
128	Lenni Hameenaho	NJ	RW	19	6-0/175	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	46	14	17	31	10
129	Nick Lardis	Chi	LW	18	5-11/165	Brantford (OHL)	37	29	21	50	12
130	Ty Nelson	Sea	D	20	5-10/195	North Bay (OHL)	54	16	36	52	50
131	Isaac Howard	TB	LW	20	5-10/185	Michigan State (B1G)	36	8	28	36	10
132	Fyodor Svechkov	Nsh	C	21	6-0/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	57	16	23	39	18
133	Jeremie Poirier	Cgy	D	21	6-1/196	Calgary (AHL)	23	3	10	13	22
134	Reid Schaefer	Nsh	LW	20	6-3/215	Milwaukee (AHL)	63	7	14	21	39
135	Zack Ostapchuk	Ott	C	20	6-3/205	Belleville (AHL)	69	17	11	28	47
136	Nathan Gaucher	Ana	C	20	6-3/207	San Diego (AHL)	72	10	15	25	68
137	Rodwin Dionicio	Ana	D	20	6-2/207	Wsr-Sag (OHL)	60	25	48	73	108
138	Eduard Sale	Sea	LW	19	6-1/170	Bar-Kit (OHL)	49	15	23	38	8
139	Danil Gushchin	SJ	RW	22	5-8/165	San Jose (AHL)	56	20	34	54	24
140	Sean Behrens	Col	D	21	5-10/175	Denver (NCHC)	44	4	27	31	53
141	Christian Kyrou	Dal	D	20	5-10/170	Texas (AHL)	57	8	15	23	22
142	Niklas Kokko	Sea	G	20	6-3/185	Pelicans (Fin-Liiga)	13	9	0	1.49	0.926
143	Vasily Ponomarev	Pit	C	22	5-10/180	Tuc-Chi-WBS (AHL)	45	9	21	30	16
144	Ryan Winterton	Sea	RW	20	6-2/190	Coachella Valley (AHL)	58	22	13	35	23
145	Dmitri Buchelnikov	Det	LW	20	5-10/165	Admiral Vladivostok (KHL)	55	13	16	29	8
146	Oscar Fisker Molgaard	Sea	C	19	6-0/165	HV 71 (SHL)	50	9	12	21	6
147	Aku Raty	Ari	RW	22	6-1/190	Tucson (AHL)	55	15	29	44	22
148	Matyas Sapovaliv	VGK	C	20	6-3/180	Saginaw (OHL)	54	19	43	62	22
149	Georgii Merkulov	Bos	C	23	5-11/175	Providence (AHL)	67	30	35	65	20
150	Topias Vilen	NJ	D	21	6-1/195	Utica (AHL)	54	2	27	29	16
151	Ryan Chesley	Wsh	D	20	6-0/200	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	6	8	19
152	Jayden Perron	Car	RW	19	5-9/165	North Dakota (NCHC)	39	11	7	18	8
153	Tristen Robins	SJ	C	22	5-10/175	San Jose (AHL)	42	7	11	18	12
154	Calle Odelius	NYI	D	19	6-0/190	Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)	10	0	4	4	2
155	Vincent Iorio	Wsh	D	21	6-2/190	Hershey (AHL)	60	4	10	14	30
156	Raphael Lavoie	Edm	RW	23	6-4/215	Bakersfield (AHL)	66	28	22	50	64
157	Ronnie Attard	Phi	D	25	6-3/210	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	48	10	17	27	37
158	Niko Huuhtanen	TB	RW	20	6-2/205	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	52	19	27	46	46
159	Carson Bjarnason	Phi	G	18	6-3/185	Brandon (WHL)	46	24	17	3.01	0.907
160	Lukas Dragicevic	Sea	D	19	6-1/190	Tri-City (WHL)	66	14	36	50	52
161	Leevi Merilainen	Ott	G	21	6-2/160	Belleville (AHL)	24	10	9	2.87	0.906
162	Tyler Kleven	Ott	D	22	6-4/200	Belleville (AHL)	53	5	16	21	51
163	Hunter Brzustewicz	Cgy	D	19	5-11/185	Kitchener (OHL)	67	13	79	92	24
164	Ryan Greene	Chi	C	20	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	40	12	24	36	6
165	Damian Clara	Ana	G	19	6-6/214	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	34	25	8	2.23	0.913
166	Carson Lambos	Min	D	21	6-1/200	Iowa (AHL)	69	4	10	14	64
167	Denver Barkey	Phi	C	19	5-8/160	London (OHL)	64	35	67	102	28
168	Gage Goncalves	TB	C	23	6-1/170	Syracuse (AHL)	69	13	45	58	43
169	Arshdeep Bains	Van	LW	23	6-0/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	59	16	39	55	28
170	Bogdan Konyushkov	Mtl	D	21	5-11/175	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	65	6	22	28	18
171	Alexei Kolosov	Phi	G	22	6-1/185	Dinamo Minsk (KHL)	47	22	21	2.39	0.907
172	Samuel Fagemo	LA	RW	24	6-0/195	Ontario (AHL)	50	43	19	62	26
173	Filip Mesar	Mtl	C	20	5-9/175	Kitchener (OHL)	45	19	33	52	12
174	Matthew Robertson	NYR	D	23	6-3/200	Hartford (AHL)	68	4	17	21	49
175	Adam Engstrom	Mtl	D	20	6-2/185	Rogle (SHL)	51	4	18	22	4
176	Michael Buchinger	StL	D	20	5-11/185	Guelph (OHL)	52	10	37	47	37
177	Semyon Chistyakov	Nsh	D	22	5-11/180	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	59	4	20	24	16
178	John Farinacci	Bos	C	23	5-11/197	Providence (AHL)	71	12	26	38	16
179	Angus Crookshank	Ott	LW	24	5-10/180	Belleville (AHL)	50	24	22	46	60
180	Yegor Sidorov	Ana	RW	19	6-0/180	Saskatoon (WHL)	66	50	38	88	66
181	Samu Tuomaala	Phi	RW	21	5-10/175	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	69	15	28	43	12
182	Logan Morrison	Sea	C	21	6-0/180	Coachella Valley (AHL)	64	16	25	41	4
183	Jean-Luc Foudy	Col	C	21	5-11/175	Colorado (AHL)	26	4	10	14	18
184	Adam Gajan	Chi	G	19	6-3/167	Green Bay (USHL)	43	23	12	3.35	0.893
185	Nolan Allan	Chi	D	21	6-2/195	Rockford (AHL)	60	5	12	17	47
186	Oskar Olausson	Col	RW	21	6-1/180	Colorado (AHL)	39	11	9	20	24
187	Samuel Poulin	Pit	C	23	6-1/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	41	16	15	31	35
188	Brett Berard	NYR	LW	21	5-9/165	Hartford (AHL)	71	25	23	48	62
189	Colton Dach	Chi	C	21	6-4/205	Rockford (AHL)	48	11	15	26	39
190	Jack Thompson	SJ	D	22	6-0/180	Syr-SJ (AHL)	62	6	35	41	16
191	Riley Kidney	Mtl	C	21	5-11/170	Laval (AHL)	65	7	13	20	41
192	Roby Jarventie	Ott	RW	21	6-3/195	Belleville (AHL)	22	9	11	20	22
193	Carey Terrance	Ana	C	18	6-1/175	Erie (OHL)	56	29	23	52	25
194	Luca Del Bel Belluz	CBJ	C	20	6-1/185	Cleveland (AHL)	58	9	22	31	12
195	Luca Pinelli	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Ottawa (OHL)	68	48	34	82	44
196	Francesco Pinelli	LA	C	21	6-1/185	Ontario (AHL)	67	13	7	20	24
197	Elias Salomonsson	Wpg	D	19	6-1/185	Skelleftea (SHL)	31	2	9	11	58
198	Sam Colangelo	Ana	RW	21	6-2/205	Western Michigan (NCHC)	38	24	19	43	23
199	Sasha Pastujov	Ana	RW	20	6-0/185	San Diego (AHL)	46	10	13	23	14
200	Andrew Gibson	Det	D	19	6-3/195	Saul St. Marie (OHL)	68	12	32	44	58

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – ANAHEIM DUCKS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #2

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 13:44:48 +0000

Anaheim Ducks Top 20 Prospects

MONTREAL, QC - JULY 07: Anaheim Ducks pick Pavel Mintyukov shakes Gary Bettman hand during the first round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft on July 07, 2022 at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

1. Leo Carlsson - C

Probably one of the most NHL-ready players coming out of the 2023 draft, it was clear that the well-built 6’3” forward was a certainty to be selected between the 2nd and 6th overall pick this summer. But when Anaheim announced his name as the second overall pick, there was a sense of surprise in the air at Bridgestone Arena. The selection becomes less surprising when one considers that Carlsson has been playing SHL hockey since he was a wiry 16-year-old putting up 3-6-9 (G-A-P) numbers in 35 SHL games while already statistically dominating Sweden’s U20 circuit. Now ranked as Anaheim’s top prospect, Carlsson is coming off a year in which his 10-15-25 numbers in 44 regular season games had him only behind Daniel and Henrik Sedin, Elias Lindholm, and Niklas Backstrom (just barely) for the best ever season among first year draft-eligible players in Sweden’s top league pro league. He then proceeded to add nine playoff points to his totals. His season was further rounded off by another 3-3-6 and +5 numbers over seven WJC contests before checking in with 3-2-5 over eight games at the men’s WC. With an ELC in his pocket, a full-time move to North America could happen as soon as this fall.

2. Pavel Mintyukov - LW

The Ducks are surely over the moon that they were able to land a prospect of Mintyukov' caliber with the 10th overall pick in the 2022 draft. Not only does he possess an enormous amount of raw skill, but he also has an ideal frame and doesn't have any significant weaknesses. He went from playing on a high-flying, firewagon Saginaw team to a much more structured Ottawa club, finishing the season leading all OHL defenders in assists (64) and points (88) and winning the Max Kaminsky Trophy as the OHL’s Most Outstanding Defenseman. He shines the brightest with his offensive play and boy does he shine bright, but with the right development work he could become a premiere off-puck defender as well. If he reaches his full ceiling, he will be a true number-one defenseman who logs boatloads of ice time and contributes significantly on both sides of special teams.

3. Lukas Dostal - G

Sometimes playing on a bad team — or even two bad teams — can have its advantages. Both the Ducks and their AHL-affiliate San Diego Gulls squads struggled last season, which made it easier to give more starts to their hotshot young netminder to see what he can do. As it turns out, Dostal can do a lot, even with little to work with. That's not exactly a surprise, given his prior success in Europe, but it's been strongly reinforced more recently. His stats and record last season don't tell the whole story, as he faced high quantity – many of which were high quality - shots at both levels, pulling out some heroic performances to keep games close and even steal a few wins. He's fast, flexible, and does a great job of being controlled with his movements. His mental game is sharp and focused, while also equally competitive and calm. After getting 19 NHL games last season, look for Dostal to make the permanent jump this campaign.

4. Olen Zellweger - D

When you're a small defenseman you have to be very good in multiple areas in order to be successful in the NHL. Luckily for Zellweger (and the Ducks), not only is he good in multiple areas, but he’s also flat-out exceptional in them. His ability to see the ice and read the play in front of him is almost unparalleled for his age group, and he applies that across all 200 feet of ice, whether that's breaking pucks out of his own end, carrying them through the neutral zone, or picking spots to attack offensively. He's poised under pressure but can also unleash a killer instinct. The two-time winner of the WHL’s Top Defenseman Trophy and 2022-23 CHL Defender of the Year, Zellweger is poised to step into the pros and continue standing out.

5. Tristan Luneau - D

Luneau was the first overall pick in the 2020 QMJHL draft, and it's fair to say that he didn't quite live up to those expectations in his first two years in the league. However, the foundation was always there for him to break out, and he did that in a huge way last season, exploding for a team-high 83 points in 65 games and leading Gatineau to one of the best records in the league, resulting in him being named the QMJHL Defenseman of the Year. There's so much to like about his game: his hockey sense is impressive, he has size and reach, his footwork is clean and mechanically sound, he's dangerous with the puck, and he relishes being a leader and top player on his team. There are a lot of different directions where his game can evolve from here.

6. Nathan Gaucher - C

Gaucher plays a very specific style of hockey and fills a very specific kind of role, but his value comes from the fact that he's one of the best prospects in all of junior hockey who regularly takes on that kind of workload and assignment. He's a shutdown center through and through, with everything that entails including lots of penalty killing, closing out leads late in games, taking important faceoffs, defensive matchups against the top players on opposing teams, and dishing out some snarl and physical punishment. All of it culminated in him being named the Best Defensive Forward in the QMJHL last season en route to QMJHL and Memorial Cup championships. He scored at a point-per-game clip in the QMJHL, but that won't be a big part of his game at higher levels. What Gaucher does might not be glamorous work, but he was a first-round pick by the Ducks and appeared in two World Juniors with Canada because he makes a big difference with how he plays.

7. Jacob Perreault - RW

Perrault had a choice of where to play during the 2021-22 season: stay in the AHL under the continued transfer exemption caused by COVID-19, or head back to the OHL. He chose to stay in the AHL and after a season of seemingly stalled progression you may wonder if it was the wrong choice. His raw natural ability in the offensive zone has always been apparent, especially as someone who can finish plays by getting the puck into the back of the net. The questions have always been about his all-around play and transitioning his scoring from a junior style to more of a professional style. As of right now, those questions remain unanswered. In fairness, some injury troubles and a bad team around him haven't helped. There is still untapped potential with Perreault, but the path is steeper than it was previously.

8. Jackson Lacombe - D

LaCombe's 2022-23 season ended in heartbreak, as his top-ranked University of Minnesota team was eliminated in the Frozen Four championship game by Quinnipiac. Even worse, he was on the ice for the overtime goal that sealed it. But you can't fault him for the loss, because he played his heart out, including blocking a shot with his face earlier in the game. That's not a fun way to end an NCAA career, but he is more than ready now to turn pro. Heck, he might even jump straight into the Ducks lineup, because the roster space is certainly there. He is an impressive skater, two-way contributor, fierce competitor, and natural leader, all of which are always valued in the NHL. He doesn't project as a true power play quarterback, but he'll be a guy who finds ways to produce points from the back end.

9. Tyson Hinds - D

Hinds had size and athleticism going for him in his draft year, while the other main elements of his game were still works in progress. But work on them he did, with the help of Anaheim's development staff. A season and a half later he made Canada's roster for the World Juniors, which is an impressive amount of growth for the former third-round pick. The Ducks selected him for his long-term upside, but this much growth this quickly probably surprises even them. The current package he brings is very enticing, adding much-improved puck skill and 200-foot play to his existing size and athleticism. Defensemen like Hinds eat a lot of minutes because they are so versatile. His floor is very high, and the ceiling keeps looking higher and higher as time goes on.

10. Nico Myatovic - LW

Myatovic's game is built primarily around strength and power, and he has an abundance of both. There aren't many, if any, better forecheckers in all of junior hockey. He chases after dump-ins with the momentum of a runaway freight train, and if he can't cleanly win the footrace to the puck, he's more than happy to land a crushing body check or use his long reach to disrupt the opposing defender's attempt at escaping. He's also an expert at killing penalties and defending empty net situations for similar reasons, aggressively applying pressure high in the zone and routinely forcing the puck out and down the ice. It's not like he's a black hole offensively, either. He can handle the puck well enough at full speed to contribute on the rush, and he is legitimately dangerous around the goal mouth because he does such a great job fighting to get there and then to stay there. The way he plays isn't glamorous, but he brings a lot of value to a roster, as evidenced by how much of a difference-maker he was with the Seattle Thunderbirds in their 2023 WHL championship run.

11. Carey Terrance - C

A versatile forward who brings an element of speed, Terrance plays a high energy, two-way game but has upside as a scorer. He returns to the Erie Otters this year as part of a strong, young group on the upswing.

12. Drew Helleson - D

A defense first defender who just completed his first pro year and even got in a few games with Anaheim. With his length and mobility from the right side, Helleson profiles as a steady #4-5 who can anchor a penalty kill and pair well with an aggressive offensive type. He could challenge for a roster spot this year.

13. Noah Warren - D

Recently moved to Victoriaville, the move should help Warren gain more offensive responsibility to help him round out his profile in his final junior season. The former high pick still profiles as a physical, stay-at-home type and still has top four upside.

14. Coulson Pitre - RW

A recent 3rd round selection by the Ducks, Pitre is a competitive, complementary winger. His hockey sense is a major strength and it allows him to pair well with higher skilled play drivers, as he opens up space for them. Should be a go-to offensive player in Flint (OHL) this year.

15. Sasha Pastujov - RW

The real test for Pastujov begins this coming season at the pro level. He has torched the OHL but there are still concerns over his lack of pace and overall skating affecting his transition to the next level. The upside is still high, and this season should give us an indication of how far away he truly is.

16. Calle Clang - G

Acquired from Pittsburgh in the Rakell trade, Clang got his first, small taste of the AHL last year and will continue with San Diego full time in 2023-24. He is unquestionably Anaheim’s top goaltending prospect after Dostal right now and will be given ample time to continue developing.

17. Benoit Olivier Groulx - C

Time is running out for Groulx, a former high selection and QMJHL star. He is no longer exempt from waivers and this upcoming training camp will be a huge one for him. His offensive game has yet to truly develop at the pro level, but he can still offer value as a defensively oriented checker on the bottom lines.

18. Ian Moore - D

Moore, an athletic two-way defender, has progressed well at Harvard through his first two years in college. He is returning for his junior year and the Ducks will be looking for him to take another step offensively. He still likely projects as more of a Drew Helleson-esque stay at home type.

19. Brayden Tracey - LW

This upcoming season will be a huge one for the former first round pick. A talented goal scorer, Tracey’s offensive production at the AHL level has been disappointing thus far. He has had trouble adjusting to the pace of the pro game. His days in the system could be numbered if he does not take a step forward this year.

20. Sam Colangelo - RW

Colangelo is hoping that a transfer to Western Michigan (from Northeastern) for his senior year can help him unlock his potential as a dominant two-way winger. He uses his size well to be disruptive and to protect the puck, but his on-puck play and production has remained inconsistent. He still has middle six upside.

2023 NHL DRAFT: A Review

Chase Rochon — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:10:53 +0000

Another long year of amazing hockey has come and passed as we oficially end the 2023 scouting season and shift from the star-studded offensive draft class to the defensive-heavy 2024 NHL draft. This year's class was super fun and had the potential to bring the big stars and deep depth that we saw in the 2015 draft. This makes it very difficult to rank the winners and losers as every team acquired some very talented athletes in their organization that should make an impact for many years to come. Some teams acquired some elite star players at draft positions they didn't think would be possible at lower picks and later rounds. Those picks make the difference between good and great drafting by ﬁnding those diamonds in the rough.

NHL hockey operations departments are made up of the best of the best in the industry and have been through more drafts and different case studies over more years than I have been alive, which creates some hesitation in handing out grades for teams that we felt drafted poorly or passed on talent or upside. It is important to remember that teams take into consideration so many intangibles and factors outside any eye test or analytics can tell us. They have considerable resources and information networks public scouting teams can only dream of.

Most importantly, people need to remember these young athletes are human beings that just had the best week of their lives and treating them disrespectfully and pre-judging a young man that has yet to fully develop mentally and physically is completely unfair. I think every fan base should be showing love and support for the future players that are going to put in blood sweat and tears for the team you cheer for and go to war against the opposition.

With all that in mind, here is how I think all 32 teams performed at the 2023 NHL Draft based on my own rankings as well as the wonderful team at McKeen’s that I have the pleasure working alongside.

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA - DECEMBER 29: Canada's Connor Bedard #16 backhands the puck while Austria's Tim Geifes #21 defends during Preliminary Round - Group A action at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship at Scotiabank Centre on December 29, 2022 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. (Photo by Matt Zambonin/IIHF)

#1 Chicago Blackhawks (A+)

1 Connor Bedard (F)

19 Oliver Moore (F)

35 Adam Gajan (G)

44 Roman Kantserov (F)

55 Martin Misiak (F)

67 Nick Lardis (F)

93 Jiri Felcman (F)

99 Alex Pharand (F)

131 Marcel Marcel (F)

167 Milton Oscarson (F)

195 Janne Peltonen (D)

It feels very ﬁtting that the number one ranked team had the number one pick this year in the generational talent of Connor Bedard, who is expected to make an immediate impact. Kyle Davidson clearly agrees by bringing in some veteran support this summer in Taylor Hall, Nick Foligno and Corey Perry. This pick was obvious. What makes the Blackhawks stand out is what might be my favourite selection of the entire draft in Oliver Moore at 19th overall, where I, alongside Davidson, was in shock this player was still on the board—followed by selecting one of if not one of the best goaltenders in Adam Gajan. We absolutely loved Nick Lardis at McKeens, and we ﬁnd this to be amazing value in the early third round. Roman Kantserov, Martin Misiak, Alex Pharand and Marcel Marcel are other great pickups to round out the real depth of this draft class for the Blackhawks as they build the next generation in Chicago.

#2 Columbus Blue Jackets (A)

3 Adam Fantilli (F)

34 Gavin Brindley (F)

66 William Whitelaw (F)

98 Andrew Strathmann (D)

114 Luca Pinelli (F)

156 Melvin Strahl (G)

194 Oiva Keskinen (F)

224 Tyler Peddle (F)

The Blue Jackets' dreams came true when Adam Fantilli was still waiting for them at third overall, as the rookie Hobey Baker winner would have been selected ﬁrst overall in any other draft. Followed up by his Michigan teammate Gavin Brindley who we at McKeens had ranked #26. William Whitelaw ranked at #39 by McKeen’s, and Andrew Strathmann, ranked #39 by me, are amazing values. I really like Luca Pinelli at #114 and thought it was a great move to trade for the last pick in the draft and select Tyler Peddle, who was in attendance and should have been selected much higher. This will be the draft that could really put the Blue Jackets over the top to be a future contender in the Metro.

#3 Philadelphia Flyers (A)

7 Matvei Michkov (F)

22 Oliver Bonk (D)

51 Carson Bjarnason (G)

87 Yegor Zavragin (G)

95 Denver Barkey (F)

103 Cole Knuble (F)

120 Alex Ciernik (F)

135 Carter Sotheran (D)

172 Ryan MacPherson (F)

199 Matteo Mann (D)

The Flyers got a player with arguably the highest upside in the class in 7th overall in Matvei Michkov alone, which is enough to rank them this high. Aside from whether there is any truth to rumours that he somehow orchestrated his way to Philadelphia, he was genuinely excited to be drafted by the organization. The possibility that he will be coming to play in North America perhaps sooner rather than later could completely alter the landscape of the rebuild for GM Daniel Briere. They followed up by selecting Oliver Bonk, who our Ontario scouts adore at McKeens, including myself. Bonk will continue to develop in London. The Carson Bjarnson pick could age very well as a good young goaltender with a long road of development ahead. Denver Barkey and Alex Cienik are great value picks at 95th and 120th.

#4 Seattle Kraken (A-)

20 Eduard Sale (F)

50 Carson Rehkopf (F)

52 Oscar Fisker Mølgaard (F)

57 Lukas Dragicevic (D)

84 Caden Price (D)

116 Andrei Loshko (F)

148 Kaden Hammell (D)

168 Visa Vedenpää (G)

180 Zeb Forsfjäll (F)

212 Zaccharya Wisdom (F)

Seattle has been consistently one of the better drafting teams since they entered the league, and they continued that streak in Nashville. Eduard Sale is very much a gamble with questions about his compete lvel and lack of production against pros. However, he possesses elite ﬁnishing ability and was dominant against players his own age. He has a very high ceiling that I believe can be developed properly in the OHL, followed by the development team in Seattle. At the end of the day, with such a great prospect pool, you can take a swing for upside at #20 overall and can add a true top-line ﬁnisher for Shane Wright or Matty Beniers. The Kraken continues to favour the CHL and loaded up with more players in Carson Rehkopf, Lukas Dragicevic and Caden Price in the late second round. They had all been viewed as late ﬁrst/early second round talents. Oscar Fisker Mølgaard has the potential to bring some real energy to the bottom six and PK and become a really good role player for the team. I had him ranked at #30th betting on his high motor and relentless pressure with some ﬁnishing ability.

#5 Carolina Hurricanes (A-)

30 Bradly Nadeau (F)

62 Felix Unger Sörum (F)

94 Jayden Perron (F)

100 Alexander Rykov (F)

126 Stanislav Yarovoy (F)

139 Charles-Alexis Legault (D)

158 Ruslan Khazheyev (G)

163 Timur Mukhanov (F)

190 Michael Emerson (F)

222 Yegor Velmakin (G)

Bradley Nadeau was the highest player selected from the BCHL after having a monster year. He was ranked #27 by McKeens, which makes for a good pick late in the ﬁrst. Where Carolina impressed us was how well they drafted in the later rounds picking up some of the biggest steals of the draft in Jayden Perron who we ranked 34th and Timur Mukhanov ranked 98th. As they typically do, Carolina drafted great to add to the loaded prospect pool.

#6 Buffalo Sabres (A-)

13 Zach Benson (F)

39 Anton Wahlberg (F)

45 Maxim Strbak (D)

86 Gavin McCarthy (D)

109 Ethan Miedema (F)

141 Scott Ratzlaff (G)

173 Sean Keohane (D)

205 Norwin Panocha (D)

Draft after draft Buffalo ﬁnds themselves selecting some great players but I think Zach Benson could be the final elite piece they need to take them back to the playoffs and end the long drought. Benson is the smartest player in the draft after Connor Bedard. They followed up with good picks in Anton Wahlberg and Maxim Strbak. I really like the value of Ethan Miedema and Scott Ratzlaff in rounds 4 and 5.

#7 St. Louis Blues (B+)

10 Dalibor Dvorský (F)

25 Otto Stenberg (F)

29 Theo Lindstein (D)

74 Quinton Burns (D)

76 Juraj Pekarcik (F)

106 Jakub Stancl (F)

138 Paul Fischer (D)

170 Matthew Mayich (D)

202 Nikita Susuyev (F)

Dalibor Dvorský and Otto Stenberg could be an amazing one-two punch down the middle in the near future as the Blues shift towards the future and away from the team that won them the 2019 Stanley Cup. I think Dvorsky and Stenberg both have been underrated as they tend to be looked at as “safe picks” - a term that I sometimes hate because it shouldn’t discount the true skill these players have. Because they are viewed as having lower ceilings than some other top names in the class they fell at the draft, and St. Louis took full advantage and selected the best player available. The rest of the Blues draft was very average, not making any poor selections but also not taking any swings on some big names with upside.

#8 Washington Capitals (B+)

8 Ryan Leonard (F)

40 Andrew Cristall (F)

104 Patrick Thomas (F)

136 Cameron Allen (D)

200 Brett Hyland (F)

206 Antoine Keller (G)

The Capitals may not have had the luck they had hoped for in having Michkov fall to them, but they were very quick to the podium to select the NTDP gritty winger in Ryan Leonard. He brings a hard game and that’s no slight on the raw skill this kid has. After this year’s playoffs, NHL teams are looking to mold their roster after the Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights and Leonard ﬁts that profile. Many, including myself, expected Andrew Cristall to fall on draft day but to 40th overall was quite surprising and Washington took full advantage, taking some risk on a junior perimeter player. Going into the draft year we expected Cameron Allen to be the ﬁrst OHL player off the board, but after a brutal season his stock plummeted. It’s hard to believe this talented young player entirely forgot how to play hockey and I think the Caps were willing to take this bet at 136.

#9 Colorado Avalanche (B)

27 Calum Ritchie (F)

31 Mikhail Gulyayev (D)

155 Nikita Ishimnikov (D)

187 Jeremy Hanzel (D)

219 Maros Jedlicka (F)

The Avalanche wouldn’t have expected to select Calum Ritchie and Mikhail Gulyayev with these very late ﬁrst rounders who we ranked 19th and 24th. This is great value at these picks. I ﬁnd it very interesting that they went with a very smart player who has a low ceiling and a high ﬂoor in Ritchie but then took a bit of a gamble on Gulyayev who is the polar opposite with a high ceiling and low ﬂoor. Not having many picks, and not many high ones, they can consider it a win if Colorado can get a couple NHLers from such minimal selections.

#10 Los Angeles Kings (B)

54 Jakub Dvorak (D)

78 Koehn Ziemmer (F)

118 Hampton Slukynsky (G)

150 Matthew Mania (D)

182 Ryan Conmy (F)

Jakub Dvorak has been such an underrated player all season long because he hasn’t been playing due to injury and is not flashy and doesn’t have much of a highlight reel but he might be the best defensive defenseman to come from this draft class. Big frame players like Dvorak are rare and hard to ﬁnd and are typically viewed as underrated even in the NHL because they are never noticeable with the puck. Dvorak shut down all the top players in the U.S. NTDP top line, Dvorsky, Michkov and even Connor Bedard at international competitions. He makes life so hard for attackers and will be a nightmare for goal scorers in the NHL and people will wonder how he was selected so late. The Kings followed this up with good picks in Koehn Ziemmer and Matthew Mania.

#11 Florida Panthers (B)

63 Gracyn Sawchyn (F)

127 Albert Wikman (D)

159 Olof Glifford (G)

191 Luke Coughlin (D)

198 Stepan Zvyagin (F)

Florida was another team that capitalized on an underrated player who slid on draft day in Gracyn Sawchyn. He played on a star-studded Seattle Thunderbirds team and didn’t get the opportunity to play top minutes but that didn’t stop him from putting up over a point per game. He will continue to grow under a great development program as he gains more ice time and expect him to put up monster numbers in the WHL for the next two seasons.

#12 Dallas Stars (C+)

61 Tristan Bertucci (D)

79 Brad Gardiner (F)

125 Aram Minnetian (D)

157 Arno Tiefensee (G)

189 Angus MacDonell (F)

221 Sebastian Bradshaw (F)

Dallas had very minimal draft capital and made the absolute most of it to no one's surprise as they usually do. Amazing value in Tristan Bertucci and Aram Minnetian.

#13 Vegas Golden Knights (B-)

32 David Edstrom (F)

77 Mathieu Cataford (F)

96 Arttu Kärki (D)

192 Tuomas Uronen (F)

Vegas selecting David Edstrom almost felt destined to happen as the last pick of the first round as we expected him to be selected in the ﬁrst round. Great pick for the Stanley Cup winners. Arttu Karki was also my favorite Finnish defense this year and I think 96 is excellent value for a player of his skill.

#14 San Jose Sharks (B-)

4 Will Smith (F)

26 Quentin Musty (F)

36 Kasper Halttunen (F)

71 Brandon Svoboda (F)

123 Luca Cagnoni (D)

130 Axel Landén (D)

132 Eric Pohlkamp (D)

196 David Klee (F)

203 Yegor Rimashevsky (F)

The Sharks drafted the highly skilled forward Will Smith very high, and I know he has gained some real hype over the past few months to get into the top 5 but personally having him just outside the top 10 makes it very hard to justify so much talent and other options at pick 4. This is a take that really could come back to bite me but I just don't love what Smith and Musty bring to the table outside of the high offensive skill that they clearly both have. In terms of value picks I think Halttunen is the Sharks best pick. If he played in London last season, he would have been called on day one of the draft and still has the opportunity to come over next season and be one of the best players in the league right away. The Sharks drafted very well but 13 other teams just did better.

#15 Calgary Flames (B-)

16 Samuel Honzek (F)

48 Étienne Morin (D)

80 Aydar Suniev (F)

112 Jaden Lipinski (F)

176 Yegor Yegorov (G)

208 Axel Hurtig (D)

The Flames had a solid draft and got a player we can expect the be a safe NHLer in Samuel Honzek that was expected in this range. I think Etienne Mornin could be the steal for them. This is a player that is extremely intelligent, and I personally have a lot of faith will continue to have success in his own development each season and could be viewed as a late ﬁrst rounder in the near future. Aydar Suniev at 80th overall is also great value.

#16 Montréal Canadiens (B-)

5 David Reinbacher (D)

69 Jacob Fowler (G)

101 Florian Xhekaj (F)

110 Bogdan Konyushkov (D)

128 Quentin Miller (G)

133 Sam Harris (F)

144 Yevgeni Volokhin (G)

165 Filip Eriksson (F)

197 Luke Mittelstadt (D)

Montréal might be the most talked about team post draft for all the wrong reasons so being dead in the middle at 16 may come as a surprise to most. The dislike for me comes from picks 101-197 where they took seven guys they could have gotten in rounds 6 or 7, and unfortunately some of those picks were in rounds 4 and 5. Jacob Fowler is a good goalie that could be huge for them, with the organization having such little depth in that department. Now Reinbacher who is the talk of Twitter and unfortunately for terrible reasons. The only argument I can understand against him is that Michkov should have been the pick, but there were many question marks surrounding the Russian and his intentions, leaving the Habs in a situation with lots of uncertainty at pick #5. So, they understandably took a player with a lot of certainty in elite defenseman David Reinbacher. He has been the only player under 18 shutting down grown professional athletes and ex-NHLers for two years. If that's not impressive enough he didn't just defend, he also produced higher than anyone in their DY-2 and DY-1 ever.

David has a good head on his shoulders and will develop all the necessary skills to round out his game to become a high-end defenseman who will eat lots of minutes and make a huge impact. He may not put up great offensive numbers or make highlight reel plays. That's ok, he plays defense for a reason. Leave that for the loads of talented players you already have and let Reinbacher make the other team's life a living hell and win hockey games, because that's what it's all about.

#17 Arizona Coyotes (B-)

6 Dmitri Simashev (D)

12 Daniil But (F)

38 Michael Hrabal (G)

70 Jonathan Castagna (F)

72 Noel Nordh (F)

81 Tanner Ludtke (F)

88 Vadim Moroz (F)

102 Terrell Goldsmith (D)

134 Melker Thelin (G)

160 Justin Kipkie (D)

162 Samu Bau (F)

166 Carsen Musser (G)

Arizona may have not drafted our best player available in their slots, but they took an interesting strategy to this year's draft that might have been the best option based on the current state of the team. Dmitri Simashev was our number one ranked defenseman in the class while Danill But has displayed shades of Evgeni Malkin at times. Both played on the same team this past season. This put Arizona in a safer situation to swing on upside and internally develop them together and could very well be a big payoff. Hrabal is the pick that gives some extra value as my personal favorite goaltender in the class. Drafting all players over 6'0" is another interesting strategy that is hard to disagree with. Middle of the pack supports my mixed feelings on the drafting of the Coyotes.

#18 Winnipeg Jets (C)

18 Colby Barlow (F)

82 Zachary Nehring (F)

146 Jacob Julien (F)

151 Thomas Milic (G)

210 Connor Levis (F)

Winnipeg is facing a lot of potential turnover on their roster this season. Colby Barlow makes an excellent pick for the Jets, bringing in a character Canadian guy, on and off the ice, as a key piece to build upon. You can expect Barlow to score lots of goals in the near future. The rest of the picks are very average, so they receive an average grade.

#19 New York Rangers (C)

23 Gabe Perreault (F)

90 Drew Fortescue (D)

152 Rasmus Larsson (D)

178 Dylan Roobroeck (F)

183 Ty Henricks (F)

Gabe Perreault was good value at 23rd as I thought his production this season would lead to him going much higher than he should have and I think this was a good range for him. A smart player who can be a great complement to some high-end skill just like he did with the NTDP. The rest of the picks were not very average.

#20 Detroit Red Wings (C)

9 Nate Danielson (F)

17 Axel Sandin Pellikka (D)

41 Trey Augustine (G)

42 Andrew Gibson (D)

47 Brady Cleveland (D)

73 Noah Dower Nilsson (F)

117 Larry Keenan (D)

137 Jack Phelan (D)

147 Kevin Bicker (F)

169 Rudy Guimond (G)

201 Emmitt Finnie (F)

Detroit's draft was very interesting to me because I find it hard to criticize Steve Yzerman’s picks which have been excellent in the past with some home runs to show for it. Nate Danielson and Axel-Sandin Pellika are great players who will be NHLers and good ones. They just didn't strike me as the types of players Detroit has recently drafted with some hard nose battlers that are going to be warriors. I think it might take a while for either to become impact playoff players relative to some of the skill still left on the board, such as Oliver Moore at pick #9 and still available at #17. They pass with a C as most other picks were good, but just that they were good and not great, where teams ahead of them made some great picks.

#21 Edmonton Oilers (C)

56 Beau Akey (D)

184 Nathaniel Day (G)

216 Matt Copponi (F)

Beau Akey is a good pick that has a good path in front of him to reﬁne his offensive talents and become a threat from the point for the Colts over the next couple of seasons and get a real chance to make the Oilers. Hard to judge a team with such little options at the draft.

Leo Carlsson of Sweden at a practice session during the 2023 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship on May 25, 2023 in Riga.
Photo: Joel Marklund / BILDBYRÅN /

#22 Anaheim Ducks (C-)

2 Leo Carlsson (F)

33 Nico Myatovic (F)

59 Carey Terrance (F)

60 Damian Clara (G)

65 Coulson Pitre (F)

85 Yegor Sidorov (F)

97 Konnor Smith (D)

129 Rodwin Dionicio (D)

161 Vojtech Port (D)

I think passing on Fantilli will be something that will haunt Anaheim for a long time and really hurts their grade even though they are getting a great talent in Leo Carlsson. Unfortunately, I have a hard time seeing Carlsson being the 2nd best player that comes from this class and when they are a top team in the league soon this selection might be the difference between a contender and a champion. Other than that, Myatovic, Terrance and Pitre are solid picks.

#23 Vancouver Canucks (D+)

11 Tom Willander (D)

75 Hunter Brzustewicz (C-)

89 Sawyer Mynio (D)

105 Ty Mueller (F)

107 Vilmer Alriksson (F)

119 Matthew Perkins (F)

171 Aiden Celebrini (D)

Willander was ranked 23rd by us at McKeens and is a great defenseman who happens to be in a star studded offensive heavy draft. I think the Canuks were guilty of drafting for need rather than best player available and that affected the grade. Other than that, there isn’t too much to like in the class other than Hunter Brzustewicz at 75 was a great selection.

#24 Nashville Predators (C-)

15 Matthew Wood (F)

24 Tanner Molendyk (D)

43 Felix Nilsson (F)

46 Kalan Lind (F)

68 Jesse Kiiskinen (F)

83 Dylan MacKinnon (D)

111 Joseph Willis (F)

121 Juha Jatkola (G)

143 Sutter Muzzatti (F)

175 Austin Roest

218 Aiden Fink

Nashville was the host of this year’s draft and advised by new GM Barry Trotz in an interview to take some swings on high upside to add some high-end skill to the prospect pool. Well, they just didn’t do any of that and delivered a mediocre draft outside of top prospect Matthew Wood. What makes their draft so disappointing is that after 10 consecutive picks, the next best value pick was David Poiles last pick in Aiden Fink in the 7th round. Expectations were high and far from reached.

#25 Tampa Bay Lightning (D)

37 Ethan Gauthier (F)

115 Jayson Shaugabay (F)

179 Warren Clark (D)

193 Jack Harvey (F)

211 Ethan Hay (F)

Tampa will ﬁnd a way to develop these players, especially Ethan Gauthier, because that’s what they do best within their system. I just believe they could have done it with the better options available and left talent on the table with every pick.

#26 New Jersey Devils (D+)

58 Lenni Hämeenaho (F)

122 Cam Squires (F)

154 Chase Cheslock (D)

164 Cole Brown (F)

186 Daniil Karpovich (D)

New Jersey was very inactive and didn’t take many swings this year and they are in a situation where they didn’t need to. Lenni Hameenaho was ranked 84 for us at McKeens and was a bit of a reach.

#27 Ottawa Senators (D)

108 Hoyt Stanley (D)

140 Matthew Andonovski (D)

204 Owen Beckner (F)

207 Vladimir Nikitin (G)

215 Nicholas VanTassell (F)

Ottawa did not have many picks and none very high. Hoyt Stanley is the only pick which has had some hype going into the draft and been noticeable this season. I wouldn’t expect anyone from the class to make the roster.

#28 Pittsburgh Penguins (D-)

14 Brayden Yager (F)

91 Emil Pieniniemi (D)

142 Mikhail Ye. Ilyin (F)

174 Cooper Foster (F)

217 Emil Järventie (F)

223 Kalle Kangas (D)

Another situation where good players were selected but when I look at this class, and Emil Jarventie is the best value pick in the 7th round, that is an issue for me. Yes, Brayden Yager is an excellent player with a deadly shot and a good head on his shoulders. It’s hard to give high grades when top 5-10 talents were still available where he was picked. This strikes me as more of a situation where the Penguins scouting staff were left to make the pick, more so than Dubas, and they went with the guy they targetted going into the draft rather than the best player available.

#29 Toronto Maple Leafs (D-)

28 Easton Cowan (F)

153 Hudson Malinoski (F)

185 Noah Chadwick (D)

The Easton Cowan pick is very difficult to grade because it really could go both ways. I understand the pick because you’re getting, debatably, the hardest working player in the class whose development is skyrocketing at a high pace under the teachings of the Hunters in London. You can expect this growth to continue over the next couple seasons. It woudl appear the Leafs aren’t selecting the 28th best player currently and are banking on Cowan being a ﬁrst round talent in 3-5 years, an approach I agree with. The issue I have with this pick is I really think you could have selected him later, and possibly much later. The 2nd round Is still a reach but at least you’re not leaving talent on the table in this deep draft and getting the maximum value out of each pick. I just think this was some poor asset management and the Leafs just focused on getting their guy. Time will be the true indicator.

#30 New York Islanders (D)

49 Danny Nelson (F)

113 Jesse Nurmi (F)

145 Justin Gill (F)

177 Zach Schulz (D)

209 Dennis Good Bogg (D)

Islanders drafted some good leadership in a pair of Captains in Danny Nelson and Zach Shulz. When that is the best thing to be said about the selections that is an issue.

#31 Boston Bruins (F+)

92 Christopher Pelosi (F)

124 Beckett Hendrickson (F)

188 Ryan Walsh (F)

214 Casper Nässén (F)

220 Kristian Kostadinski (D)

Beckett Hendrickson is the only reason they aren’t ranked 32nd.

#32 Minnesota Wild (F)

21 Charlie Stramel (F)

53 Rasmus Kumpulainen (F)

64 Riley Heidt (F)

149 Aaron Pionk (D)

181 Kalem Parker (D)

213 Jimmy Clark (F)

The Wild are the only team that gets an F grade. It’s not because I don't like the players in Charlie Stramel and Rasmus Kumpulainen because they are prospects I had on my personal board, but it’s very hard to justify these picks with the options still available on the board at the time of the picks. These are just too far off the board to not trade back and still get the player you want. We at McKeens ranked both these players as 3rd round talents.