David Gucciardi – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #11 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Sun, 03 May 2026 22:00:21 +0000

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 08: Washington Capitals Left Winger Ilya Protas (62) skates during warmup before the NHL regular season game between the Washington Capitals and the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 8, 2026, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 11th (Last Year - 7th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

After a surprising turnaround in 2024–25, when the Washington Capitals finished second in the Eastern Conference with 51 wins, the organization is now beginning to feel the effects of an aging core. With the team slipping outside the playoff picture, Washington has already begun its purge, moving long-time defenseman John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick. That acquisition helps offset a depleted draft outlook, as the Capitals currently lack both second- and third-round selections in the upcoming draft. Luckily, the organization has drafted well in recent years, providing optimism that this may be more of a quick retool than a full rebuild under Chris Patrick. They now carry most of their picks post 2026, and there’s a decent expectation that they could add more to that pile.

Ryan Leonard has already graduated to the NHL and has established himself as a legitimate scoring threat in his rookie campaign, while prospects such as Andrew Cristall (46th), Ilya Protas (39th), and Ivan Miroshnichenko (125th) have continued to show well at the AHL level. On the back end, 2024 second-round pick Cole Hutson (16th) is coming off an explosive NCAA career at Boston University, where he produced at over a point-per-game pace across two seasons. Now transitioning to the NHL, Hutson already appears on the verge of graduating from our list in short order.

With speculations that this could be Alexander Ovechkin’s final season, the Capitals find themselves at a crossroads. However, the good news is that they are supported by a promising group of young players who could help usher in the next phase of competitive hockey in Washington quicker than expected.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
Wsh	1	Cole Hutson	D	19	5-10/165	Boston University (NCAA)	35	10	22	32	26
Wsh	1	Cole Hutson	D	19	5-10/165	Washington (NHL)	14	3	7	10	8
Wsh	2	Ilya Protas	LW	19	6-3/185	Hershey (AHL)	69	29	37	66	40
Wsh	2	Ilya Protas	LW	19	6-3/185	Washington (NHL)	4	1	3	4	2
Wsh	3	Andrew Cristall	LW	21	5-9/165	Hershey (AHL)	72	20	40	60	24
Wsh	4	Lynden Lakovic	LW	19	6-4/200	Moose Jaw (WHL)	22	18	11	29	8
Wsh	5	Milton Gastrin	C	18	6-1/195	MoDo Hockey (Allsvenskan)	39	10	14	24	4
Wsh	6	Terik Parascak	RW	20	6-0/180	Prince George (WHL)	61	33	46	79	53
Wsh	7	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	22	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	41	14	20	34	47
Wsh	7	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	22	6-1/185	Washington (NHL)	13	2	1	3	2
Wsh	8	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	24	6-3/200	Hershey (AHL)	62	17	28	45	31
Wsh	8	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	24	6-3/200	Washington (NHL)	2	0	0	0	0
Wsh	9	Ryan Chesley	D	22	6-0/200	Hershey (AHL)	64	6	10	16	18
Wsh	10	Leon Muggli	D	19	6-1/175	Hershey (AHL)	27	1	6	7	4
Wsh	11	David Gucciardi	D	23	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	52	3	10	13	55
Wsh	12	Eriks Mateiko	LW	20	6-5/215	Hershey (AHL)	27	1	5	6	16
Wsh	13	Cam Allen	D	21	6-0/195	Hershey (AHL)	22	3	4	7	22
Wsh	14	Maxim Schafer	RW	19	6-4/185	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	53	21	28	49	28
Wsh	15	Petr Sikora	C	20	5-11/170	HC Ocelari Trinec (Czechia)	24	3	6	9	8

Cole Hutson, D, Boston University (NCAA) (Currently with Washington Capitals, NHL)

Both Boston University and the U.S. World Juniors teams have been underwhelming overall but luckily they’ve had Cole Hutson as one of the lone offensive brightsides. He’s had to do it all for the Terriers this season, top pairing offensive defenceman, top power play quarterback, top penalty kill. Hutson is all ready to jump into the Capitals blueline next season, seeing as how he can elevate the game of those around him with his playmaking and space creation. He is more conservative than his older brother with the puck and when pinching, which has made him way more defensively responsible and able to take hits at his young age. Hutson’s dynamism comes from his IQ and stickhandling, which has been very unpredictable no matter where he is on the ice, as long as he has the puck, he’s going to make a move. It may take longer for him to make the impact that Lane did in a lineup, but Cole Hutson will be an impact player for the Washington Capitals in the near future.
Ilya Protas, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Washington’s use of a third-round pick on Ilya Protas is looking better and better every year. As a 19-year-old rookie, Protas has been the heartbeat of this Hershey Bears team. Protas has been the team’s first-choice center in nearly every situation from the jump. Being on the first line, first power play unit, and occasionally the penalty kill, he is easily the leader in ice time among the forward group. In his first 69 pro games, Protas put up 66 points and leads the team. Everything that made him a standout in Windsor has translated almost seamlessly in Hershey. Protas’ unique blend of size and skill is causing problems in the AHL. Protas has incredible vision and play anticipation for someone his age playing against men. He’s developing as a center in all the right ways in all three zones. It’s not a matter of if he will play alongside his brother in the NHL, but when. If Washington can’t find a way into the playoff picture, Protas will likely get a late-season call-up and work toward making the opening-day roster next season.
Andrew Cristall, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Both in points and on the ice, the one player to have gone step for step with Ilya Protas thus far has been fellow rookie and linemate Andrew Cristall. In 72 games this season, Cristall put up 60 points and put his playmaking on full display. Cristall is at his best when he gets the puck on his stick and before you know it, he’s already dished it out. His style of slowing the play down, changing the angle and making a play has carried to the AHL level. Cristall’s offensive prowess wasn’t the largest area of concern when making the jump to the pros, but rather his pace and defensive capabilities. This season has shown these are still areas of growth for him. On the forecheck and in his defensive zone, Cristall is never grinding along the boards to get possession of the puck but rather hovering near the play to grab the loose puck and turn it into a scoring opportunity. It’s a style that limits him to a top six role, which he can reach but might delay his road to the NHL.
Lynden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jay Warriors (WHL)

You truly have to feel bad for Lakovic due to the season-ending injury that he suffered in November. Not only was he playing the best hockey of his career at that point in time (the game he got injured in snapped a 14-game point streak for him), if he had stayed healthy he surely would have been traded from the rebuilding Moose Jaw Warriors to one of the WHL's championship-chasing clubs. It also causes some concerns about his overall development, because he's still a very raw prospect who needs plenty of reps to refine some areas of need, but after already signing his entry-level contract, he won't be able to make a stop in the NCAA before going to the pro leagues. Either way, the Capitals are probably still sufficiently content about drafting Lakovic in the first round in 2025, because it's hard to find forwards at his size who are also such superb skaters and puck handlers. If everything unfolds just right for him in the coming years he could turn into a pretty rare kind of player at the NHL level.
Milton Gästrin, C, MoDo (Allsvenskan)

Gästrin’s DY+1 has gone swimmingly. He’s playing big minutes in all situations down the middle at the HockeyAllsvenskan level and producing at a solid clip as well. Helping win a gold medal at the WJC doesn’t hurt either. The strongest tools in Gästrin’s arsenal have translated well to the pro level. His high-end skating, his strong motor, and his hockey sense have allowed him to make an immediate impact as a two-way center for MoDo. His skills with the puck and his playmaking ability look like they’ve taken a step, and he’s shooting the puck with more oomph as well. What his exact NHL role will be is still a bit unclear. He’s got a solid NHL floor, but where he plays in the lineup will be defined by the next steps in his development. If he can bulk up a bit more and play with a harder physical edge, he could easily slot into a bottom six role. If he learns to accept more puck responsibility and stops deferring so much in the offensive zone, he could play higher up in the lineup. Hopefully that clears itself up after another year or two of development in the Swedish pro ranks.
Terik Parascak, RW, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

A lot of eyebrows were raised when Washington selected Parascak at 17th overall in the 2024 draft. He cracked the 100-point plateau that season as a 17-year-old with the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, but questions were asked and debates were held about whether his production was a genuine reflection of his talent and potential, or whether it might have been a bit of a mirage. Nearly two years later, all the signs are pointing towards it being the latter of the two, evidenced mainly by the ongoing decline of his scoring pace despite the consistency of his environment. He’s certainly not a bad prospect, by any means. He works hard and thinks the game well in all three zones, he’s effective on both sides of special teams, and he has an innate nose for the net. The problem is that that description is better suited to a prospect taken 57th or 67th overall, as opposed to 17th. There’s still time for Parascak to turn into a contributing NHL player, but the Capitals will need to do more to help him get there.
Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW Hershey Bears (AHL)

Out of everyone who has played at least two games for Hershey this season, Ivan Miroshnichenko leads the way in points per game. In 41 games, Miroshnichenko had 34 points for the Bears. In each of the past two seasons, Miroshnichenko has played roughly 30 games with the NHL club. This season, he has played five to date. Has he fallen out of favor with head coach Spencer Carbery, or is it just bad luck? More likely the latter. Miroshnichenko missed 12 games early in the year due to injury and during that time inked a two-year extension. Although he isn’t afraid to play along the boards and rough some people up, Miroshnichenko is more of a goal scorer than a depth player. With several forward contracts coming off the books next season in Washington, Miroshnichenko should get his shot as a full-time top nine forward with the Capitals.
Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

In his first two full seasons with Hershey in the AHL, Bogdan Trineyev hovered around the 20-point mark. This season has been a different story. Something has clicked offensively for the Russian and he has now eclipsed his career high in points in 39 games. It’s a remarkable jump in production from the 2020 fourth-round pick. Trineyev’s calling card has always been as a grinder. He works hard on the forecheck and is finally getting a share of the points he’s helping create. In his own end, he is stalwart defensively. He consistently positions himself well and actively uses his stick to disrupt play. He’s been a mainstay on the penalty killing unit for a while now. With the scoring ability finally there, Trineyev now looks to be capable of battling for a bottom six role in Washington. He’s already been called up once this season for two games and will likely be the first choice if a depth option goes down again.
Ryan Chesley, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Coming over from the University of Minnesota at the end of last season, Chesley had three points in four games. Through 64 games this season, Chesley only had 16. His offence has cooled recently and his defence hasn’t been on fire either. Chesley posted a team-worst +/- of -19. As a stay-at-home defenceman type, Chesley’s effectiveness has been reduced with a step up in play. The pace of play in the AHL puts more pressure on defencemen to make the correct decision quickly and Chesley is cracking under it. Under pressure, Chesley is not making the right reads quickly enough, which is leading to frequent turnovers. He hasn’t been a big feature of either special teams group, thus limiting his value. Chesley may not be as close to NHL-ready as once thought, but that shouldn’t really change his long-term projection. He still has plenty of time left to adjust and still projects as a dependable third-pairing defenceman.
Leon Muggli, D, Hershey Bears, (AHL)

Leon Muggli has suited up 19 times for Hershey this season, earning five points in the process. He missed 20 games early in the season due to an upper-body injury and then also spent time away from the Bears to participate in the World Junior Championships with Switzerland. In five games, he tallied one goal and four assists. During the handful of games Muggli has played, he’s been largely in a sheltered role, averaging a little over 16 minutes a game. He’s gotten more looks on the power play than the penalty kill. Muggli’s pro experience in Switzerland is showing up as he doesn’t look as out of place as you would expect for a 19-year-old defenceman in the AHL. He’s getting his stick in the right spots a lot of the time and his skating is solid for this level. Muggli has so much runway left in his development that it’s hard to project him at this point. It’s reasonable to think that Muggli will be a bottom-four NHL defenceman of some variety. A lot of it will depend on how much of his offensive game he can develop in Hershey.
David Gucciardi, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

An underrated player in the Capitals system who impressed in this year’s NHL preseason. Gucciardi is a strong skating two-way defender who has been solid for Hershey so far this season. He could be a potential bottom pairing option for Washington in a year or two.
Eriks Mateiko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Mateiko was a breakout star last season at the WJC’s, helping Latvia find success. However, the big winger has struggled at the AHL level as a rookie, battling ineffectiveness and injury. He’ll need to adjust to the pace of the pro game.
Cam Allen, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

A classic jack of all trades type defender, Allen will need to find an identity as a pro if he wants to be an NHL defender. His mobility is his best asset.
Maxim Schafer, LW, Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)

The big German winger remains a big project. Playing in the QMJHL this year, he does a good job of getting to the net and using his size. However, does he have the skill to be an NHL player down the line? Staying in the QMJHL for another year would be extremely beneficial.
Petr Sikora, C, HC Ocelari Trinec (Czech)

Sikora really popped off at this year’s World Juniors, captaining the Czechs to a silver medal. He brings great energy and effort and is starting to gain confidence as a playmaker. Could continue to rise in the ranks of Washington’s system.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #7

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:22:57 +0000

ST. LOUIS, MO - APRIL 12: Boston defenseman Cole Hutson (44) handles the puck during the championship game of the NCAA D1 Frozen Four between the Boston University Terriers and the Western Michigan Broncos on April 12, 2025, at Enterprise Center, St. Louis, MO. (Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 7th (May 2025 - 9th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

The Washington Capitals pulled off a remarkable retool in 2024-25, blending an aging core with an influx of youth to finish second in the Eastern Conference. Though their playoff run ended in the second round, the season underscored a bright future under GM Chris Patrick.

Ryan Leonard, McKeen’s fifth-ranked prospect, leads the way. After a dazzling two-year career at Boston University (61 goals and 109 points in 78 games) the NCAA standout joined the Capitals late and is poised for a full time NHL role in 2025-26.

The junior ranks saw offensive explosions across the board. Andrew Cristall capped his WHL career with a staggering 132 points, bringing his final tally to 412 in 248 games. Ilya Protas, younger brother of NHLer Alexei, made a spectacular OHL debut, finishing second in league scoring with 124 points. Patrick Thomas, a 2023 fourth-round pick, nearly doubled his career best with 104 points. On the back end, 2024 second rounder Cole Hutson tied Zeev Buium for the NCAA scoring lead among defensemen with 48 points.

Several prospects—forward Ivan Miroshnichenko, defenseman Ryan Chesley, and blueliner Vincent Iorio—will be pushing hard to earn NHL spots next season, adding further competition to an already deep group.

Although Washington entered the 2025 draft with just five picks, they managed to bring in intriguing additions. Most notable was towering WHL forward Lynden Lakovic in the first round, followed by skilled winger Milton Gastrin in the second. Both debut in the team’s top 15 prospects.

Under Spencer Carbery, the Capitals have managed a rare feat of staying competitive while steadily developing their next generation. With the league’s most prolific goal scorer, Alex Ovechkin, still chasing milestones, the Stanley Cup window remains open—now supported by a wave of high-upside youth ready to contribute.

Washington Capitals Top-15 Prospects

1 - Ryan Leonard

Ryan Leonard is the best prospect the Capitals have had in at least a decade, you probably need to go back as far as when Washington drafted Filip Forsberg in 2012 to find a prospect in this organization that was so highly touted. The USNDTP and Boston College standout was among the best players in college hockey over the past couple years, leading the nation in goals with 30 last season. Internationally, he captained the United States to a second straight World Junior Gold medal, while also bringing home tournament MVP honours. Though only standing at six feet, Leonard profiles as an ultra-competitive and highly-skilled power forward. He joined the Capitals late last season and played meaningful minutes down the stretch and in the postseason in Washington’s middle six. It won’t be long before Leonard is a top six fixture in DC, he has the upside to be a star.

2 - Cole Hutson

Washington fans had to be over the moon after seeing Cole Hutson’s performance at last year’s World Junior Championship. The expectation would be that he would play a key secondary role for the Americans, but nobody could have predicted that he would lead the tournament in scoring en route to a Gold Medal. The 2023 second-round pick also ended up leading the NCAA in scoring among blueliners, putting up 48 points in 39 games. The 5-foot-10 blueliner’s calling card is his confidence, which is supported by his creativity and agility, making him an absolute nightmare for opponents to defend. His hockey IQ and competitive nature help him on the defensive side of the puck, but he still has work to do in that regard before he turns pro. Hutson will be back at Boston University again this season, and will be one of the best players in college hockey.

3 - Andrew Cristall

A lot of WHL defencemen must be thrilled that this is Cristall's final year in the league, because it means that his offensive reign of terror is coming to an end. To give you an idea of just how unstoppable he was, earlier this season he became just the first WHLer in the 21st century to amass 400 regular season points. A mid-season trade to Spokane only made him more dangerous, clicking immediately with fellow dynamo Berkly Catton. He’s creative, his offensive vision is razor-sharp, and he’s a wizard with the puck on his stick. So then why did he slide to the second-round in the 2023 draft and get snubbed by Hockey Canada for the World Juniors? Simply put, he’s a poor skater for a guy his size and plays at a low pace, which can sometimes make him a 200-foot liability. Cristall will need to be developed and deployed appropriately and carefully in order to translate his current success to the NHL.

4 - Ilya Protas

What a season it was for Ilya Protas, as he made the jump to the OHL with the Windsor Spitfries. He and the Spitfires took the league by storm, jumping to the top of the standings, and a lot of that can be attributed to the remarkable performance of Protas. The big winger is such a well rounded and intelligent offensive player. He’s highly skilled. He has great vision with the puck and demonstrates the poise of a player who you’d assume already has pro experience. He’s a committed two-way player who was utilized by Windsor in all situations. Like his brother Aliaksei, who just enjoyed a breakout year for the Washington Capitals, the only thing missing from his game is dynamic skating ability. Improving his quickness and agility will be paramount to his NHL success. The question is, where does Protas play next year? He could return to Windsor for another year or he could turn pro and play in the AHL as a 19/20 year old. Either choice would have potential drawbacks and benefits.

5 - Ivan Miroschnichenko

Even if his play in the NHL remains a work in progress, Miroschnichenko’s second pro season in North America had to be considered a mild success. He established himself as an excellent goal scorer at the AHL level with Hershey and he’s learning how to best utilize his shot and strength on North American ice. It’s easy to forget that he’s only 21, the age that most CHL players begin their pro journey; Miroschnichenko played in the AHL as an “underager” two seasons ago. With a few contracts coming off the books this offseason, one has to wonder if Miroschnichenko will be given every opportunity to earn a top nine role with the Capitals next season. His combination of skating ability, strength on the puck, and scoring instincts makes him the ideal complementary winger for a creative playmaking pivot. He could easily develop into a perennial 25 goal scorer for Washington in the near future and someone who can help ease the eventual transition post Alex Ovechkin.

6 - Lynden Lakovic

It’s still early, but the Capitals getting to add Lakovic at 27th overall currently looks like one of the best value picks of the 2025 draft. The Moose Jaw winger and team captain finished 13th overall on the final McKeen's ranking, and was even higher than that at earlier points in the season, because he absolutely oozes upside. For someone of his height he’s surprisingly slick and slippery with the puck, he’s quite coordinated as a skater, and his vision and creativity as a playmaker can’t be beat by many prospects out there. Oddly enough, the biggest knock on his game right now is that he’s too much of a gentle giant, shying away from contact more than he should and failing to take better advantage of his natural physical tools. Can that still be taught to him, or is it an inherent part of his personality? The Capitals are hoping that it’s the former, because if they can help Lakovic unlock that part of his game then there’s no telling just how good he could become.

7 - Ryan Chesley

Ryan Chesley, a 2022 second-round pick of the Capitals, was a steady presence on the back end for the University of Minnesota for the last three seasons. While he did show growth offensively by cracking the 20 point plateau in his third collegiate season, he is predominantly a defensive defenceman. Chesley loves to play the body, but also is a good enough skater that he can be very effective in shutting down rush chances. On retrievals and in transition, Chesley is good at making quick, effective reads and getting the puck up ice. In college he would occasionally jump up in the play, but that likely won’t be very prevalent in his game at the pro level. He projects as a safe, dependable, stay at home defender that comfortably fits on a third pairing but has upside to contribute on a second pairing. He will continue his development in Hershey this season.

8 - Terik Parascak

There was an expectation coming in this season that Parascak's point totals might come back down to Earth a little, especially now that he's no longer the unknown and unexpected scoring phenom that he was at the beginning of last year. That has indeed happened, but he has also proven that his breakout campaign wasn't just some kind of fluke. This is one driven, highly intelligent young player who just keeps erasing doubts about his underwhelming strength and skating ability. Few can match his instincts and anticipation in the offensive zone, which causes pucks to gravitate to his stick right before he strikes quickly with them. And despite lacking size he's not afraid to go into the dirty areas and absorb some punishment to help create scoring chances. There's still a lot of work to be done, and the Capitals will need to be patient, but Parascak has the potential to become a useful complementary piece in an NHL roster puzzle.

9 - Vincent Iorio

Iorio has essentially hit a crossroads in his development. The big right shot defender has the tools to be a quality bottom pairing defender in the NHL. He is mobile. He makes a great first pass. He competes physically and takes away space. Offensively, he’s not a standout; he’s not a skilled puckhandler or someone confident in jumping up in the play. He’s content with being that stable, stay at home defender. The issue is that the Capitals just don’t have room for him right now. That becomes an even larger issue next year when he is no longer exempt from waivers. If he performs well in camp, does Washington move out someone like Trevor Van Riemsdyk? Does he beat out someone like Declan Chisholm to earn the seventh defender spot? Either way, Iorio’s future with the Capitals may just be decided soon.

10 - Justin Sourdif

Justin Sourdif's scoring pace improved from his first two years in the AHL as he continues to refine his game at the pro level. Justin plays a well-rounded game, adding value both on and off the puck. His hands and ability to muscle through traffic are impressive, and he gets to the dirty areas to look for rebounds, making him an effective transitional player suitable for the NHL. Sourdif's shot has mystified AHL goaltenders this year as his release is a bit unorthodox and comes off quick. On the defensive end, Sourdif grinds hard on the backcheck to break up plays and is skilled at recovering pucks off the boards in scrums. After the Capitals paid a steep price to acquire Sourdif, he will likely see the NHL sooner rather than later. It wouldn’t be a shock to see Sourdif playing a valuable role in the Capitals' bottom six within the next two years.

11 - Milton Gastrin

A long-time captain in Sweden’s junior program, Gastrin is your prototypical hardworking forward who can play the game any way it comes. Possessing great straight-line speed, Gastrin is hard on the forecheck and relentless in his puck pursuit. He brings the size, skills, and hockey IQ to one day be an above average lower line forward entrusted with yeoman duties. It’s very possible that there’ll be more in the tank offensively down the line.

12 - Eriks Mateiko

We’ve loved Matiko’s size/aggressiveness combination for several years now, but the hulking winger put things into overdrive this winter. One of the most impressive goal scorers at the 2025 WJC, Mateiko then took serious flight with the Rimouski Océanic in their Memorial Cup hosting run after a midseason trade from Saint John. We saw improved passing, positional responsibility, and puck pressuring, with smarts and skills added to his previous intensity. What can he do for an encore?

13 - Leon Muggli

With a few shifts for the Hershey Bears this past spring, Muggli concluded a 2024-25 season that - statwise - was rather bland for a prospect who was one of the biggest risers in his draft year. More indicative of his progress was the often gaudy amount of ice time he got for EV Zug this past season, spent entirely as an 18-year-old. Still eligible for the upcoming WJC, Muggli is expected to establish himself in the AHL this season.

14 - Cam Allen

A solidly built RHD with a variety of tools, Allen has constantly left the scouting community wanting more since his 2023 draft season, one that saw him drop to the fifth round. The doubts continued in his injury-shortened DY+1 but found a wonderful end after a midseason trade to the OHL champs - and Memorial Cup-winning - London Knights, with whom he excelled as a multifaceted player who can play the game anyway it comes. His pro career starts this season.

15 - David Gucciardi

Coming off a quietly successful four-year tenure at Michigan State, including an outstanding senior season for the highly ranked Spartans, Gucciardi features a lot more puck-moving ability and rush-joining mobility than his numbers to date may indicate. Having concluded this past season on an ATO with the AHL affiliate, including his first pro goal, Gucciardi is scheduled to become a full-time pro this season and could be one of four Capitals-drafted blueline prospects in Hershey.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #9 Washington Capitals – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:21:07 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 04: Capitals right wing Ryan Leonard (9) skates up ice during the Chicago Blackhawks versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on April 4, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

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Washington 25 Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #14 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:44:59 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 22: Washington Capitals left wing Ivan Miroshnichenko (63) in action during the Carolina Hurricanes game versus the Washington Capitals on March 22, 2024 at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire)

Stanley Cup winners in 2018, the Capitals lost in the first round the following four seasons, missed in 2022-23, and then got swept by the Rangers this season. It was likely expected though, as the team has spent the past two seasons selling off assets as part of a retool vs. a rebuild. They’ve moved on from Marcus Johansson, Dmitry Orlov, Garnet Hathaway, Erik Gustafsson, Lars Eller, Anthony Mantha, and Evgeny Kuznetsov, adding picks mainly in the second and third rounds, as well as young defender Rasmus Sandin. The Capitals have all of their first-round picks over the next three years and have an additional 11 picks over that time in rounds two and three. Despite this, it’s hard to believe that the Capitals won’t go for it for a couple more years, with Alex Ovechkin under contract for two more seasons, along with John Carlson. There is hope that Niklas Backstrom can return next season for the last year of his contract too.

The Capitals have some strong young pieces as well. Connor McMichael, Alex Protas, Hendrix Lapierre, and Alex Alexeyev are all officially NHLers the past two seasons, and it looks like Ivan Miroshnichenko is right behind them after playing 21 games this season and looking strong, with Hodgkin’s lymphoma now behind him. The pipeline also has some strong pieces knocking at the door, headlined by 2023 eighth-overall pick Ryan Leonard. In that same draft, they selected an absolute steal of a pick in Andrew Cristall 40th overall. They join a system that still has strong pieces such as Ryan Chesley, Vincent Iorio, Alex Suzdalev, and Clay Stevenson. The club has done well at building for the future without giving up too much of a competitive edge, though they will be looking for a return to contention before Ovi’s time is done.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Ryan Leonard	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	`23(8th)	41	31	29	60	38
2	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	20	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	`22(20th)	47	9	16	25	13
					Washington (NHL)	`22(20th)	21	2	4	6	6
3	Andrew Cristall	LW	19	5-9/165	Kelowna (WHL)	`23(40th)	62	40	71	111	46
4	Ryan Chesley	D	20	6-0/200	Minnesota (B1G)	`22(37th)	39	2	6	8	19
5	Vincent Iorio	D	21	6-2/190	Hershey (AHL)	`21(55th)	60	4	10	14	30
5	Vincent Iorio	D	21	6-2/190	Washington (NHL)	`21(55th)	6	0	0	0	0
6	Clay Stevenson	G	25	6-4/195	Hershey (AHL)	FA(3/22)	36	24	10	2.06	0.922
7	Alexander Suzdalev	LW	20	6-2/175	Saskatoon (WHL)	`22(70th)	30	9	16	25	4
8	Pierrick Dube	RW	23	5-9/175	Hershey (AHL)	FA(7/23)	66	28	20	48	53
					Washington (NHL)	FA(7/23)	3	0	0	0	2
9	Ethen Frank	C	26	5-11/185	Hershey (AHL)	FA(3/23)	64	29	18	47	14
10	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	22	6-3/200	Hershey (AHL)	`20(117th)	63	9	7	16	18
11	Brent Johnson	D	21	5-11/165	Ohio State (B1G)	`21(80th)	37	5	8	13	8
12	Joaquim Lemay	D	21	6-1/180	Omaha (NCHC)	`21(119th)	37	5	13	18	18
13	Patrick Thomas	C	19	5-11/160	Brantford (OHL)	`23(104th)	57	21	45	66	10
14	Cam Allen	D	19	6-0/195	Guelph (OHL)	`23(136th)	25	2	7	9	23
15	David Gucciardi	D	21	6-1/185	Michigan State (B1G)	`22(213th)	30	2	6	8	47

1. Ryan Leonard, RW, Boston College (NCAA)

Fresh off an eighth overall selection by the Capitals, Ryan Leonard didn't disappoint in his freshman year at Boston College. The 18-year-old forward lived up to his billing as a power winger, lighting up the NCAA with 31 goals and 60 points in 41 games. His offensive zone anticipation and understanding of spacing helps him to consistently find soft spots in coverage and his quick release helps him to take advantage of those opportunities more often than not. Leonard wasn't just a one-dimensional scorer, either. He showed a willingness to play a physical brand of hockey and contributed positively away from the puck. His performance was a key factor in Boston College's deep playoff run. While the jump to the NHL is significant, his dominant season has undoubtedly bolstered excitement surrounding his future in Washington. He looks like a future top six winger with a well-rounded skill set and a knack for finding the net.

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Ivan Miroshnichenko's 2023-24 season was a whirlwind. Drafted in the first round by the Capitals in 2022, his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma overshadowed his on-ice development. However, his resilience shone through. After a successful return to the ice, he impressed in the AHL with the Hershey Bears, notching 25 points in 47 games. The Capitals even gave him a taste of the NHL, scoring his first career goal in his fifth appearance, and sticking around for 21 games. While the sample size is small, the goal showcased his lethal shot – the same weapon that made him a top draft pick. The season wasn't without its hiccups. Questions about his compete level and overall consistency remain. Still, for a player overcoming a serious illness, his performance is encouraging. The team will likely give him more AHL seasoning next year, but with his raw talent, a full-time NHL push in 2024-25 isn't out of the question.

3. Andrew Cristall, LW, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

Andrew Cristall, a dynamic left winger, made waves in the 2023-24 season with the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL. Standing at 5’ 10” and weighing 174 pounds, the Vancouver native possesses a combination of speed, agility, and puck-handling skills that set him apart. His ability to create scoring opportunities and his willingness to drive to the net makes him a force to be reckoned with. He starts plays, builds them up, and then adds the finishing touches, turning the mundane into brilliance. His head fakes, handling skills, and slick edges leave defenders guessing, while his perfectly weighted passes set up teammates for success. Drafted by the Capitals in the second round, the potential as a top-six winger in the NHL is undeniable. His 40 goals and 71 assists in the regular season, along with 15 points in the playoffs, showcase his impact on the ice.

4. Ryan Chesley, D, University of Minnesota (NCAA)

Ryan Chesley's sophomore year at Minnesota wasn't a flashy offensive showcase, but it solidified his reputation as a reliable defensive force. Drafted 37th overall in 2022, Chesley's point totals dipped slightly (two goals, six assists) compared to his freshman year, but his defensive impact grew. He led the Big Ten in blocked shots (74) and emerged as a shutdown specialist. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. However, his offensive potential remains low. There are glimpses of a strong shot and smart puck movement, but consistency remains elusive. His development in the offensive zone will be crucial. Can he become a more well-rounded defenseman, or will his value lie primarily in his defensive dominance? The answer will determine his NHL ceiling. Regardless, the defensive prowess gives him a strong foundation to build on.

5. Vincent Iorio, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Vincent Iorio's 2023-24 season was a grind in the AHL. The hulking defenseman (6’ 4”, 200 lbs) spent the year with the Hershey Bears, chipping in a respectable 14 points in 76 games, earning a spot in six NHL games. While the point total doesn't overwhelm, Iorio's biggest value lies in his defensive presence. He uses his size effectively to shut down attackers and is a force along the boards. However, offensive limitations remain a concern. His skating is a work in progress, and his puck-moving ability lacks creativity. While glimpses of offensive potential exist, consistency is lacking. The question becomes: can he develop his offensive tools enough to become a well-rounded NHL defenseman? Another year in the AHL seems likely to refine his game. If his skating and decision-making with the puck can improve, he has the potential to be a reliable bottom-pairing defender in the NHL.

6. Clay Stevenson, G, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Clay Stevenson, a 6’ 4” goaltender, made waves in the 2023-24 season playing for the AHL’s Hershey Bears. In 36 games, he secured 24 wins and boasts a 0.922 save percentage, a GAA of 2.06, along with seven shutouts. His technical skills, combined with his size and agility, make him a formidable presence in the net. He has been tremendous for the last two seasons, with reading plays and stopping pucks being his strong suit. He is really putting himself on the map as a goalie prospect to own. However, he faces a challenge with the contracts in front of him at the AHL level, and being 24, he needs a shot sooner than later. He will continue to battle for the starting role in the AHL this season. He is definitely a prospect to keep an eye on as he continues to develop his game.

7. Alexander Suzdalev, LW, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

In the 2023-24 hockey season, Alexander Suzdalev showcased a masterful blend of finesse and power on the ice, solidifying his status as a promising prospect. With lightning speed and deft puck-handling skills, he consistently outmaneuvered opponents, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His hockey IQ was on full display, as he demonstrated a keen ability to read the play and make split-second decisions under pressure. Throughout the season, his dedication to his craft was evident, as he relentlessly honed his skills both on and off the ice. His commitment to excellence earned him the admiration of fans and scouts alike, who recognized his potential to make a significant impact at the next level. As he continues to develop and refine his game, he remains a player to watch closely, and could make waves on the Capitals squad.

8. Pierrick Dube, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Pierrick Dube's 2023-24 season was a tale of perseverance and glimpses of NHL potential. After a brief, scoreless call-up with the Capitals, he spent the bulk of the year dominating the AHL with the Hershey Bears. He notched a career-high 48 points (28 goals, 20 assists) in 66 games, showcasing his offensive flair and ability to find the net. However, questions about his overall game persist. While the offensive production is undeniable, his defensive awareness and consistency remain a work in progress. Can he translate his scoring prowess to the NHL while holding his own in his own zone? His performance suggests he's knocking on the door of the NHL. Another strong AHL season could solidify his case for a full-time promotion. However, refining his defensive play will be crucial in determining his NHL ceiling.

9. Ethen Frank, C, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Ethen Frank continued his ascent in 2023-24, building on his impressive rookie campaign. The 25-year-old winger solidified himself as a top scorer in the AHL with Hershey, notching 47 points (29 goals, 18 assists) in 64 games. He even repeated as the league's fastest skater at the All-Star competition. More and more as the season went on, he was relied on in all situations instead of just offensively and was up to the task. However, his season wasn't without its challenges. While the scoring pace was impressive, there were stretches where he wasn't a consistent offensive threat. There's a sense that he can elevate his game further by improving his decision-making. Despite these areas for growth, performance to date puts him on the NHL path. He's knocking on the door for a call-up, and with continued development, could become a solid middle-six forward at the next level.

10. Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Bogdan Trineyev's 2023-24 season wasn't a breakout campaign, but it offered glimpses of his potential. The big Russian winger (6’ 3”, 203 lbs) spent the entire year with the Hershey Bears. His stat line – 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) in 63 games – isn't overly impressive, but there's a caveat. Trineyev's heavy frame and strong skating suggest a power forward in the making. However, questions about his offensive awareness and puck skills linger. While he can be a force on the forecheck and win board battles, translating that into consistent scoring remains a work in progress. There were positive signs. He showed flashes of a scoring touch, and his physicality was a constant asset. But overall, his development was more grind than highlight reel. The upcoming season will be crucial. Can he refine his offensive instincts and become a more well-rounded threat? The answer could determine if he reaches his NHL potential as a bottom-six force or remains an AHL grinder.

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 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #19

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 14:49:23 +0000

Top 20 Washington Capitals Prospects

1. Ryan Leonard

There is no area in Leonard’s game that requires significant growth in order for him to be an NHLer. His ability to play with pace, his physicality, goal scoring ability, and two-way efficiency made him one of the most complete forwards available for the 2023 draft. Unquestionably, one of his best qualities is his shot. Armed with an array of high-end shots, Leonard can beat goalies in a variety of ways. His offensive zone anticipation and understanding of spacing helps him to consistently find soft spots in coverage and his quick release helps him to take advantage of those opportunities more often than not. The million-dollar question is ultimately what is his upside if he’s really good at absolutely everything, but not elite in any one thing? Can he be a first line winger the way guys like Gabriel Landeskog or Matthew Tkachuk? Or does he fit more into the middle of the lineup as a Brandon Saad or Nick Foligno type? Headed to Boston College (along with USNTDP linemates Smith and Perreault), Leonard will focus on improving his vision and playmaking ability. He should be an immediate impact player at the collegiate level similar to how Cutter Gauthier was last season. He should also be in the NHL sooner than many players drafted in the 2023 first round.

2. Hendrix Lapierre

It was a tough road for Lapierre, suffering multiple concussions and struggling at times to find his game after that. He had a very strong rookie season in the QMJHL, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. But after that, injuries set in and he missed almost all of his draft year. Still, the Capitals took a chance, drafting him 22nd overall. He spent two more years in the Q, playing well but never taking off. He joined the AHL’s Hershey Bears last season where he was one of their more productive forwards, bringing a two-way presence to the ice. Lapierre is a highly talented playmaker, thanks to his borderline elite vision. He can shoot as well, although often looks for the pass first. He skates well, drives a line, and is reliable in his own end. There’s second-line potential here if everything falls into place.

3. Ivan Miroshnichenko

Miroshnichenko was once considered a top-three calibre selection for the 2022 Draft but after a slow start to his draft year and then a Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis, he slid to 20th where the Capitals were waiting. He ended up missing a large portion of 2021-22 but was back on the ice last season, a great sign after his diagnosis. He spent a large portion of his season in the KHL with Avangard Omsk but also saw time in both the VHL and MHL. He also has a strong international resume with Team Russia, including captaining Russia to a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He has a pro frame and moves very well on the ice, thanks to powerful skating strides. Miroshnichenko is a dynamic offensive asset, able to fire a hard wrister or show off an impressive pass. He has very soft, controlled hands. He still has top six potential but may take some time to actualize. He signed a three-year entry level contract with the Capitals to continue his journey in North America this season.

4. Andrew Cristall

Cristall is an absolute magician with the puck, with a seemingly bottomless bag full of tricks. He can stickhandle in a phone booth, and his ability to draw opponents out of better defensive positioning and in towards him is exceptional. He can reliably find existing passing lanes or make that one extra dangle or delay that one extra second to help open up better ones. He's no slouch as a shooter, either. Countless opponents have made the mistake of trying to cut off his passes only to leave their goalies in helpless positions after Cristall fooled them. For as entertaining as he has been in the WHL, there are questions about how he will look in the NHL. For a guy of his small stature he isn't a high-end skater, which is a concerning one-two punch. While he can use elusive footwork to sometimes help get him out of trouble in tight spaces, his acceleration and top speed are both sorely lacking. He has a hard time keeping up defensively. It's worth mentioning that he is whip-smart and incredibly driven, so he'll be aware of what parts of his game he needs to fix and will keep putting in the work to continue improving.

5. Vincent Iorio

Iorio has been overlooked by many due to his stat line never really jumping off the page. And yet he’s a mobile, puck-moving defender with a real chance to have a legit NHL career. He moves very well, utilizing his edges to navigate the neutral zone or to dance along the blue line. He moves the puck so well, making crisp, clean passes from anywhere on the ice. Drafted 55th overall in 2021, the right-handed defender already had three WHL seasons under his belt. He spent just one more with the Brandon Wheat Kings before joining the AHL Hershey Bears last season. He also earned a call-up for a few games with the Capitals and should see more this season. The defender is well on his way to becoming a skilled bottom-four defender.

6. Ryan Chesley

Chesley heard his name called 37th overall in 2022 after an impressive season with the USNTDP. He made the move to the NCAA last season with the University of Minnesota and found some challenges with his offensive output, especially playing in a more depth role. He’ll likely see additional ice time next season, so it remains to be seen if his offensive game can take a step forward. Chesley can bring offensive production, but he leans more toward the defensive side of the game. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. He also skates well and is no stranger to moving the puck around, but his offensive output is likely to be limited at the next level. He has the potential to develop into a reliable, two-way, depth defender.

7. Alexander Suzdalev

Suzdalev has an interesting backstory of having played for both Team Sweden and Team Russia on the international stage, as he maintains dual citizenship. Drafted 70th overall in 2022, the Capitals selected him from HV71’s junior program, where he produced over a point per game. He headed overseas last season to the WHL’s Regina Pats and had the opportunity to play with Connor Bedard. That resulted in him leading all rookies in goals (38), assists (48), and points (86). He’s a skilled, playmaking winger who shows the ability to control the pace of play. His handling of the puck stands out, as though he has the puck on a string quite often. He’s not always consistent in his effort, as is sometimes seen with young offensive talents. He has the skill to be a middle-six forward, but if he can’t find that missing consistency, could cap himself as a depth option.

8. Alexander Alexeyev

It’s been a long road for Alexeyev, but the journey is starting to pay off. Selected 31st overall in 2018, the Russian defender was finishing up his second WHL season, taking a notable step forward in his development. He played one more season there with the Red Deer Rebels, again showing promising potential. He made the jump to the AHL in 2019-20, adjusting well to the faster, harder game. He went home to Russia to start the 2020-21 season, on loan with KHL Salavat Yulaev Ufa. Alexeyev returned to the AHL to finish the year and has been there ever since, seeing significant NHL time last season. He’s been plagued by injuries throughout his development but still seems to be on the right track. A big, physical defender who can chip in offensively, he should stick in the NHL as a bottom-pairing blueliner.

9. Clay Stevenson

One of the oldest prospects in the Capitals system, Stevenson has had to be patient in his road to the pros. An undrafted netminder, Stevenson came up through the BCHL where he spent three seasons, including a dominant final year, earning recognition as the top goaltender in the league. He moved on to NCAA Dartmouth College but lost his freshman year due to the pandemic. After one collegiate season, posting a .922 save percentage, the Capitals came calling, signing him to an entry-level deal. He mainly played in the ECHL last season but also received a handful of AHL games where he looked very strong. Goaltenders tend to bloom late, and the Capitals have landed an intriguing one. He’ll need time in the minors to determine his ceiling, but at this point, he looks like a solid AHLer who could earn the occasional call-up.

10. Ludwig Persson

Drafted 85th overall in 2022, Persson has spent the last three seasons (including the current campaign) seeming always on the verge of making the jump to the SHL. Instead, he spent two strong seasons in the J20 Nationell and last season on loan in the HockeyAllsvenskan. It might very well have been his last season in Sweden, as he signed his entry-level deal in November 2022. The winger is an intelligent, offensive talent who can drive a line. The issue is that he doesn’t always take advantage of that, sitting on the sidelines and letting his teammates take over. He has a hard, quick release and a soft touch on his passes. The potential is there but he comes with a low floor as much as a high ceiling. The best-case scenario would be a middle-six role, but he may settle in as an AHL/depth option.

11. Joaquim Lemay

Lemay has been all over the place in recent years, traveling from minor hockey in Quebec, to prep school, the BCHL, USHL, and finally the University of Nebraska-Omaha last season. A competitive two-way defender, he had a solid freshman year and looks the part of a potential NHL defender.

12. Bogdan Trineyev

The big power winger will finally make the jump to North America full time this season. Consistency has been an issue in Russia, but the skill is real and the physicality is intriguing. Hockey sense is the question mark.

13. Ethen Frank

A member of the AHL’s All Rookie team last year, Frank potted 30 for the Bears playing on an AHL deal. Now signed by the Caps to an NHL contract, Frank has his sights set on making the Washington roster. Not only can he rifle the puck, but he’s lightning quick, too.

14. Ryan Hofer

A big, physical two-way center, Hofer had a solid OA year split between Everett and Kamloops in the WHL. Skating is always going to be a question mark, but he has enough tools to be an eventual bottom six contributor.

15. Cam Allen

Allen is coming off a highly disappointing draft year that saw him fall from being a potential lottery selection to waiting until the fifth round to hear his name called. The tools are all there, but the decision making needs to improve. How much better will he be this year for Guelph without the weight of the draft on his shoulders?

16. Matthew Phillips

Out of Calgary, it will be interesting to see how Phillips fares in a new organization. There’s absolutely no doubt that he can score in the AHL. He’s been one of the better offensive players there in recent years. He needs to be in a scoring line role to succeed.

17. Brent Johnson

Highly touted coming out of the USHL, Johnson struggled mightily through two years at North Dakota. After transferring to Ohio State, can he get his future back on track? He can quarterback a powerplay and could put up big numbers with the Buckeyes this year.

18. David Gucciardi

Strong skating blueliner who took on a larger role with Michigan State last year as a sophomore. The numbers don’t jump off the page, but Gucciardi has intriguing tools that could help him become a solid pro down the line.

19. Jake Karabela

Another Guelph Storm member who had a poor year, Karabela is a strong skating two-way forward whose offensive game really stagnated last season. This season is an opportunity to prove to Washington that he deserves a contract and can be a future pro.

20. Hardy Haman Aktell

An SHL champion with Vaxjo last season, Aktell emerged as one of the top defenders in the SHL. This turned into a contract with Washington this offseason. He may have to start the year in the AHL, but he could move up quickly if he performs well.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #27 Washington Capitals

Josh Bell — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:39:02 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 27^th

Stanley Cup winners in 2018, the Capitals lost in the first round the following four seasons, and finally missed this year. This led to a minor reset trading veterans Garnet Hathaway and Dmitri Orlov for three picks, including Boston’s first, plus Craig Smith (UFA 2023). They traded that 1^st along with Erik Gustafsson to the Leafs for promising defenseman Rasmus Sandin, who made an immediate impact upon arrival. Marcus Johansson and Lars Eller were moved for picks in 2024 (3^rd) and 2025 (2^nd). Alexander Ovechkin is signed for another four seasons as he pursues Wayne Gretzky’s goal scoring record, it is hard to imagine a scenario where the team does not look to add pieces for another playoff run. They have question marks, such as Nicklas Backstrom’s health after offseason hip surgery limited him to 21 games this season. Evgeniy Kuznetsov has requested a trade, after an uninspired season.

They do have two promising prospects, despite their overall ranking, in Henrix Lapierre and Ivan Miroschnichenko (ranked 70^th and 77^th respectively by McKeen’s). They both have had health concerns. Lapierre from injury, which slowed his development, but had a productive season in Hershey as a two-way forward with elite vision. Miroschnichenko missed much of last season with a Hodgkins Lymphona diagnosis prior to his draft year. Considered a potential top 10 or even top five pick, he fell to 20^th. He comes over to North America this season but will need some seasoning. They have graduated four players, but the results have been mixed. Only Martin Fehervary is making an impact in the NHL at the moment. They have hopes Connor McMichael can play a role, but results so far suggest a depth player, rather than an impact.

NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 04: Washington Capitals center Hendrix Lapierre (29) during the pre-season National Hockey League game between the New Jersey Devils and the Washington Capitals on October 4, 2021 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Hendrix Lapierre

It was a tough road for Hendrix Lapierre, suffering multiple concussions and struggling at times to find his game after that. He had a very strong rookie season in the QMJHL, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. But after that injuries set in, and he missed almost all of his draft year. Still, the Washington Capitals took a chance, drafting him 22nd overall. He spent two more years in the Q, playing well but never taking off. He joined the AHL’s Hersey Bears this season where he’s been one of the more productive forwards, bringing a two-way presence to the ice. He is a highly talented playmaker, thanks to his borderline elite vision. He can shoot as well, although often looks for the pass first. He skates well, drives a line, and is reliable in his own end. There’s second-line potential here if everything falls into place.

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko

Ivan Mirosnichenko was once considered a top-three selection in the 2022 NHL Draft but after a slow start to his draft year and then a Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis, he slid all the way to 20th where the Washington Capitals were waiting. He ended up missing a large portion of last season but is back on the ice this season, a great sign after his diagnosis. He spent a large portion of his season in the KHL with Avangard Omsk but also saw time in the VHL and MHL. He also has a strong international resume with Team Russia, including captaining Russia to a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He has a pro frame and moves very well on the ice, thanks to some powerful strides. He’s a dynamic offensive asset, able to fire a hard wrister or show off an impressive pass. He has very soft, controlled hands. He still has top six potential but may take some time. He signed a three-year entry level contract with the Capitals continuing his journey in North America this coming season.

3. Vincent Iorio

Vincent Iorio is a player that many seem to overlook due to his stat line never really jumping off the page. And yet he’s a mobile, puck-moving defender. That has caused the casual fan to pause on Iorio, but there’s a player here. He moves very well, utilizing his edges to navigate the neutral zone or to dance along the blue line. He moves the puck so well, making crisp, clean passes from anywhere on the ice. Drafted 55th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, the right-handed defender already had three WHL seasons under his belt. He spent just one more with the Brandon Wheat Kings before joining the Hershey Bears in the AHL this season. He also earned a call-up for a few games with the Capitals this season. The defender is well on his way to becoming a skilled bottom-four defender.

4. Ryan Chesley

Selected in the most recent draft, Ryan Chesley had his name called 37th overall in 2022 after an impressive season with the USNTDP. He’s made the move to the NCAA this season with the University of Minnesota and found some challenges with his offensive output, especially playing in a more depth role. He’ll likely see some additional ice time next season so it will remain to be seen if his offensive game can take a step forward. Chesley can bring some production, but he leans more toward the defensive side of the game. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. He moves well too though and is no stranger to moving the puck around, but his offensive output is likely to be limited at the next level. Still, he has the potential to become a reliable, two-way, depth defender.

5. Alexander Alexeyev

It’s been a long road for Alexander Alexeyev, but it seems like it’s starting to pay off. Selected 31st overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, the Russian defender was finishing up his second WHL season, taking a notable step forward in his development. He played one more season there with the Red Deer Rebels, again showing some promising potential. In 2019-20 he made the jump to the AHL, adjusting well to the faster, harder game. He went home to Russia to start the 2020-21 season, playing on loan in the KHL with Salavat Yulaev Ufa. He returned to the AHL to finish the year and has been there since, seeing significant NHL time this season. He’s been plagued with some injuries throughout his development but seems to be on the right track still. A big, physical defender that can chip in offensively, the defender should stick in the NHL as a bottom-pairing defender.

6. Alexander Suzdalev

Alexander Suzdalev has an interesting story of having played for both Team Sweden and Team Russia on the international stage, maintaining dual citizenship. Drafted 70th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, the Capitals selected him from the J20 Nationell and HV71 J20, where he played at over a point per game. He came overseas this season to the WHL’s Regina Pats and had the opportunity to play with Connor Bedard. That resulted in him leading all rookies in goals (38), assists (48), and points (86). He’s a skilled, playmaking winger that shows the ability to control the pace of play. His handling of the puck stands out, seeming as though he has the puck on a string quite often. He’s not always consistent in his effort, as is sometimes seen with young offensive talents. He has the skill to be a middle-six forward, but if he can’t find that missing consistency, could cap himself as a depth option.

7. Clay Stevenson

One of the oldest prospects in the Capitals system, Clay Stevenson has had to be patient in his road to the pros. An undrafted netminder, Stevenson came up through the BCHL where he spent three seasons, including a dominant final year, earning recognition as the top goaltender in the league. He moved on to Dartmouth College in the NCAA but lost his freshman year due to the pandemic. After one season in the league, posting a .922 save percentage, the Capitals came calling, signing him to an entry-level deal. He mainly played in the ECHL this season but did play a handful of AHL games where he looked very strong. Goaltenders tend to bloom late, and the Capitals have landed an intriguing one. He’ll need time in the minors to determine his ceiling, but at this point, he looks like a solid AHL goalie who could earn the occasional call-up.

8. Ludwig Persson

Drafted 85th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Ludwig Persson has spent the last three seasons (including the current campaign) seeming always on the verge of making the jump to the SHL. Instead, he spent two strong seasons in the J20 Nationell and spent this season on loan in the HockeyAllsvenskan. It may very well be his last season in Sweden though, having signed his entry-level deal in November 2022. The winger is an intelligent, offensive talent that can drive a line. The issue is that he doesn’t always take advantage of that, seeming to sit in the sidelines and let his teammates take over. He has a hard, quick release and a soft touch on his passes. The potential is there but he does come with a low floor as much as a high ceiling. The best-case scenario would be a middle-six role, but he may settle in as an AHL/depth option.

9. Joaquim Lemay

A mid-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft at 119th overall, Joaquin Lemay has gotten used to being a rookie in recent years. You’d have to go back to 2018-19 to find a season where he played with the same team for a second season. He went from playing AAA to the BCHL to the USHL’s Lincoln Stars, to the NCAA this season with the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He’s currently a two-way defender but as this season has shown, he likely leans more toward a defensive role if he is to move up. He does defend well, playing a physical game and angling out very well. He does show flashes of offense, especially in his playmaking, but lacks creativity in that department. He’ll need some time to develop but has the potential to become a strong depth defender. It will depend on how he can adjust his game to fit what’s needed of him.

10. Bogdan Trineyev

Selected 117th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Bogdan Trineyev was coming off his second season in the MHL, taking a big step forward but not exactly stealing glances from scouts. His development since being drafted has been slow, splitting time between the MHL and VHL in 2020-21 and the MHL and KHL in 2021-22 before sticking in the KHL this season. Upon his season in Russia ending, he joined the AHL’s Hershey Bears for what should be a deep playoff run. He’s a power forward that’s seemed to finally grow into his frame, but he does lack the offensive skill that you’d hope for with his playing style. He’s been improving on his defensive side of the puck though and may develop into a role player. The base is there, but there’s no real defining trait that will carry him to the NHL. He seems more likely to become an AHLer at this point.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 20 Prospects

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 22:50:31 +0000

1 - Hendrix Lapierre C

Hendrix Lapierre is a pure playmaker drafted 22^nd overall by the Washington Capitals at the 2020 NHL Draft. Some executives mentioned back then that they would not have taken Lapierre in the first round due to his concussion problems. However, the Caps did not have the same line of thought. Lapierre, at some point during the beginning of his junior career, would always never shoot the puck: he was always looking for a pass. However, he did round out his game recently as he had 21 goals and 30 assists last season with the Acadie-Bathurst Titans. On top of that, He’s an extremely gifted stickhandler that can weave his way through an entire team. It was his high skill level that caught the attention of the Capitals as they gave him an early season six game audition this past season (that saw Lapierre score his first career NHL goal). Now aged out of the QMJHL, Lapierre will attempt to crack the Capitals full time this season. More than likely, he will need some additional seasoning in the AHL to help him round out his game as a more complete player. However, there is no doubting Lapierre’s upside as a future top six player for Washington. - EB

2 - Ivan Miroshnichenko LW

Miroshnichenko was the 20th selection by the Washington Capitals in the 2022 draft. The Capitals are confident that this is the kind of player who can become the team’s future goal scoring leader following in the footsteps of countryman Alex Ovechkin. There were high expectations for Miroshnichenko in the 2021-22 season, as he was expected to be one of the top players available heading into the draft year. Despite the fact that the previous season was not outstanding for Miroshnichenko, he was able to show the world his warrior character by overcoming all difficulties, particularly his battle with cancer. Although the decision to select Miroshnichenko in the first round may have been a risky decision, the club sees great promise in Miroshnichenko and believes in his talent. Miroshnichenko is a technically skilled sniper. He played last season in the VHL (2nd men’s league in Russia) and finished among his team’s top five scorers. He possesses excellent technical skating as he is a wide and fast skater. Miroschnichenko also has great stick-handling ability, which he pairs with a very good wrist shot and excellent slap shot. He uses his shooting arsenal correctly. A physical player, he's got a mature game and will play through contact to make a play. Consistency is an issue he will look to correct, and his defensive play does need to improve as he has a tendency to chase and lose his man. A potential future top six scorer, Miroshnichenko is expected to be able to play in the NHL as early as the 2023-24 season at the end of his current contract in Russia. - DB

3 - Ryan Chesley D

Ryan Chesley was a divisive prospect during the 2022 draft cycle, with many debates being heard about the true nature of his NHL upside. Chesley’s offensive production at the U.S. National Team Development Program was underwhelming, and many have wondered if that’s an indication that he just doesn’t have the skill level to be more than a defensive specialist at the next level. But while his abilities in one zone are the subject of fierce debate, Chesley’s value in the other two zones generates more consensus. Starting with the defensive zone, Chesley’s value is more readily apparent. He’s a mobile defenseman, able to close on pucks and incoming defenders in a timely fashion. He’s a physical player who willingly engages in board battles and has unleashed some rattling hits. He’s not a massive defenseman but standing at six feet tall he has enough size to play the sort of defensive style he prefers. In the neutral zone, Chesley’s abilities puck skills combined with his skating give him definite transition value, and while some might mistakenly typecast him as a stay-at-home, throwback defender Chesley is absolutely a fit for what the modern NHL expects from its blueliners. The issue with Chesley lies in the way he sees the game. Too often, Chesley’s ability to make the right reads at the right times betrays him, and that has kept him from achieving the sort of heights as a prospect his tools would indicate he can reach. With the proper development, he could become a valuable two-way defenseman in a team’s top-four, but he needs some work to get there. - EH

4 - Aliaksei Protas C

In his first full season with the Capitals organization, Protas managed to suit up for 33 games, performing admirably. The 6’6”, 225-pound mammoth certainly has size, but his maturity and ability to responsibly play a lower line role paid out in spades for the 2019 3^rd round draft pick. His strong start with Hershey of the AHL moved him up the list of call-ups very quickly in a year where the Capitals introduced more rookies to the line-up than had in years. This shouldn’t be surprising for Protas after he broke out with the WHL Prince Albert Raiders in 19-20 and then followed that up with considerable step in development in the 20-21 season. He potted 10 goals in the KHL for Dinamo Minsk, which tied him for first among U20 players in Russia’s top league That was followed by a 16-game stint with Hershey in which he accumulated another seven points. As his size and ever-increasing weight would indicate, Protas can be an absolute handful down low, and this was evident even at the NHL level this year. His movement to the net combined with a propensity for cycling in the corners makes him difficult to defend against. He also uses his body very well to protect the puck. Just how far he goes will be determined by his progress in the skating department. He is already at a point where he can swim at the NHL level. A gig with the Capitals is not a guarantee heading into this season. – CL

5 - Alexander Alexeyev D

The road to an NHL spot has been a bumpy one for Washington’s 2018 first rounder. After spending the majority of the 20-21 season on loan to KHL Salavat, putting up 17 points in 64 total games, he concluded that season on a high note with nine points and a +11 in 12 games with AHL Hershey. An extremely solid player who presents a fine balance between his responsibilities on the defensive side and his acumen in supporting the attack, Alexeyev spent nearly the entire 21-22 season in the AHL. Much had been expected last season, but he barely doubled his AHL season over season despite playing over five times as many games. Even though he was considered a defensively oriented defenseman, his accumulation of exactly one goal presented quite the letdown in light of the steps he had taken in prior seasons. Thought to be on the cusp of an NHL spot this time last year, Alexeyev heads into the 22-23 season facing great competition in taking the next step. Internal competitor Martin Fehervary appears to have earned himself a spot in the line-up moving forward and Washington made several veteran depth signings while also adding former first rounder Gabriel Carlsson this summer. With this in mind, Alexeyev heads into camp needing to push Washington’s hand or Hershey will be his destination once again for his third and final season of his ELC. – CL

6 - Bogdan Trineyev

Trineyev is easy to notice with his mobility and big frame, along with effortless puck control and a strong shot from the right-hand side, all making it easy to see why Washington has made a bet on his upside. On the other hand, he is coming off a very uneven season, as after a good start and earning decent minutes in the KHL he suffered a broken thumb, which sidelined him for a lengthy stretch. After recovering from that he found himself back in junior hockey, where he looked good, but he also left the impression that he didn’t want to be there. After the season ended, Trineyev signed an entry-level deal with the Capitals and even managed to play couple of AHL games on a tryout agreement with Hershey. It might still be too early in his development to succeed in North American hockey, as he needs to add maturity and well-roundedness to his game, and he also needs to further fill his frame. It was no big surprise when it was announced that Trineyev would be loaned back to Dynamo Moscow for the 2022-23 season, to better prepare him for his hopefully brighter future. It would be a safe bet to see the big winger come back to North America after the KHL season ends in April, to see how the added time at home better prepared him for life in the AHL. The NHL is still a very realistic future goal. - VF

7 - Jake Karabela C

The 149th selection in the 2022 NHL Draft, Jake Karabela didn’t have many expectations coming into the season, but he quickly made an impression and was able to become a utility knife for the Storm. He adapted to different roles, played with different teammates up and down the lineup, and was able to play both on the wing and centre when needed and was effective consistently wherever he played. Karabela plays a pretty simple game, but he’s very effective at what he does. He makes smart decisions with and without the puck consistently and has great awareness, finding open space to make it easier on teammates. He’s able to play a strong 200ft game and compete hard every shift. Like others, Karabela missed the 2020-2021 season due to the Covid-19 shutdown. In the 2021-2022 season, Karabela finished with 45 points (12G,33A) in 68 games, which was 7th in the league for assists by a rookie and 4th on the team in points. Karabela’s best assets are his puck handling and competitiveness. He’s able to beat opponents one-on-one with deception and quick hands and has the ability to protect the puck and drive through traffic, being able to get many chances in the slot and near the net. Karabela has a motor that never quits on a play, showing great determination to finish a play. He displays great energy along the boards and gives himself a chance to win every puck battle. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Karabela will look to increase his point totals and become a lock in the top six. - DK

8 - Alexander Suzdalev LW

Suzdalev was recently selected 70^th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2022 NHL draft. He is known mainly for his playmaking ability. His hands are silky with the puck, which allows him to make last second plays in tight. He also has a good combination of size (6’2”) and speed. He is able to generate speed through his skating stride, however he has also proven his ability to slow the game down when necessary. This past season, Suzdalev had polar opposite play between his time with HV71 in the J20 league and his international play. In the J20, he showed his polished playmaking ability by finishing with 36 assists and 51 points in 45 games. That was enough for Suzdalev to finish in the top 10 in scoring for the J20. On the other hand, he struggled in international play, especially at the U18 tournament in April, where he looked sloppy and was held pointless. Ultimately for someone his size, he could benefit from attacking the middle of the ice more, rather than always playing along the boards. He also would benefit from adding strength to his current frame. This could improve his puck protection and his ability to generate speed through his first stride. Next season, there is a strong chance he plays in the WHL for the Regina Pats. This could be an extreme plus for Suzdalev as he is known for his playmaking ability and may have the chance to play with the expected 1^st overall pick in 2023, the prolific goal scorer Connor Bedard. - ZS

9 - Brent Johnson D

Brent Johnson hasn’t had the easiest transition to college hockey since being drafted 80th overall by the Capitals at the 2021 NHL draft. The five-foot-eleven Johnson had surgery before his freshman year that impacted his readiness and ability to play at 100% for the University of North Dakota last season. As a result, Johnson’s role was limited last season and his effectiveness was limited as well. Johnson’s best tool is his skating, and he can absolutely move around the ice quite well. Johnson’s mobility gives him upside on both ends of the ice, especially as someone who can help his team exit the defensive zone and enter the offensive zone. On the rush, his speed also allows him to maintain proper gap control With that being said, the strength of his skating isn’t backed up by major strengths in other areas of his game. Johnson’s decision-making can be lacking at times, and his overall defensive impact was quite poor last season, despite his skating. It’s not that he’s simply being overwhelmed and is unable to handle the responsibilities of being a defenseman in the NCAA, it’s more that Johnson’s attempts to make sound defensive plays weren’t often successful and his lack of size and strength left him ill-equipped to handle larger forwards. Johnson’s season in the USHL was promising, though, and he’s a project. If he can make tangible steps to improve other areas of his game in college, his mobility can be the tool that makes him a notable pro prospect. But he has work to do. His progress will definitely be something to watch for those who follow Capitals prospects. - EH

10 - Joaquim Lemay D

Joaquim Lemay had only played fifteen games at the Junior A level in his draft season, but that didn’t stop the Washington Capitals from using a fourth-round pick to nab Lemay at the 2021 NHL draft. Their scouts obviously saw something in Lemay that most others didn’t, as he barely registered in media rankings and was ranked 224th among North American Skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the 2021 draft. After Lemay’s debut USHL season, it’s become a lot clearer why the Capitals felt confident enough to select him despite Lemay receiving very little outside attention. Lemay was an instant-impact two-way defenseman for the Lincoln Stars, flashing talent on both ends of the ice. Like fellow Capitals prospect Brent Johnson, Lemay’s best attribute is his skating talent. He’s an incredibly mobile defenseman, and his skating ability is the foundation of his game that he builds the rest of his habits on. Lemay is more than just his feet, too. He is a facilitator when he’s in the offensive zone and should contribute on the power play at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. As one would expect, Lemay’s defensive game is more about zone exits, closing out on pucks quickly, and using his speed to cover ground and get into passing lanes as they develop. The bottom line with Lemay is that his skating is good enough to make him a legitimate NHL prospect, and if he can build off of that tool at the college level and become an offensive difference-maker, he could rise quickly in the Capitals’ prospect rankings. - EH

11 - Vincent Iorio

Iorio’s calling card at the next level might be in the defensive end, but the WHL defender is coming off of a strong offensive season. A strong skating right shot defender with size, Iorio is likely to start playing in the AHL this year, however he could also be sent back to the WHL for an overage year.

12 - Axel Jonsson-Fjallby

The speedy winger stands out most in a high energy role and as a penalty killer. He has a chance to make the Capitals full time this season in that exact role.

13 - Lucas Johansen

Injuries have derailed the former first round pick’s development thus far. But Johansen was finally healthy last season and responded with a strong season for Hershey. He could be a sneaky candidate for a roster spot this season.

14 - David Gucciardi

Gucciardi’s freshman season at Michigan State was a success, making him a draft selection of Washington in 2022. An excellent powerplay QB because of his mobility, Gucciardi still needs to work on his decision making at both ends.

15 - Fabian Wagner

An intriguing athlete, Wagner’s draft season was mired in inconsistency. His upside may be a little clearer after this coming season in the Linkoping program.

16 - Mitchell Gibson

Gibson, the starting netminder at Harvard, will return for another season with the Ivy league program. He has been solid so far and will look to become one of the better goaltenders in the NCAA this season to increase his stock in the system.

17 - Chase Clark

The big netminder ended last season on a high note with Muskegon in the USHL and will now try to secure consistent playing time at Quinnipiac as a freshman this season.

18 - Clay Stevenson

A free agent signing out of Darthmouth after a single NCAA season, the Capitals are intrigued by Stevenson’s combination of size and athleticism in the crease. It will be interesting to see what the team’s goaltending development coaches can do with him.

19 - Garrett Pilon

This is a make-or-break season in the Capitals system for Pilon. The son of former NHL’er Rich Pilon is a competitive power forward, but his lack of pace has held him back thus far.

20 - Ludwig Persson

A 2022 draft pick by Washington, Persson had a disappointing draft year after being thought of as one of Sweden’s top players in the draft class previously. He has speed to burn but his offensive capabilities may be more limited than previously thought.

2022 NHL DRAFT: SECOND CHANCES, PART 3 – NHL Draft Re-Entry Candidates from the USA

Brock Otten with Contributions from Will Scouch and Sam Happi — Sat, 28 May 2022 11:30:38 +0000

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

This year, it feels like we are playing catch-up because of how disjointed last year was in the scouting community. The OHL did not play. Other leagues played only partially. How much was development stunted? Better yet, how many players have surprised this year with their progression given that they were not able to show said progression last year (such as the OHL players). Will we see an extraordinary number of “re-entry” players selected this year as NHL scouting teams gobble up all of these players who slipped through the cracks of the pandemic scouting year?

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

Speaking of last year, ten “re-entry” candidates went in the Top 100; Ryker Evans, Josh Doan, Janis Moser, Carter Mazur, Alexei Kolosov, Taige Harding, Andrei Buyalsky, Josh Lopina, Ville Ottavainen, and Jakub Malek In our “second chances” article last year (Part 1:) (Part 2: )( Part 3) we wrote about eight of these ten. In total there were 34 taken, actually below the trend of over 40 being selected in other recent drafts (roughly about 20% of all players selected). Additionally, of those 34, we identified and wrote about 17 (half of them) in our aforementioned second chances series. Just like in previous editions of this annual report, we aim to identify more.

In 2022, we have some very interesting candidates. Lucas Edmonds of the Kingston Frontenacs was near the top of OHL scoring all season. Stephen Halliday of Dubuque had one of the best statistical seasons in the history of the USHL. Dmitri Buchelnikov completely obliterated the MHL, a year after being passed over as one of the youngest eligible players in 2021. This article intends to highlight them and many other candidates who could be part of that 20% (if the average is restored) this year.

Stephen Halliday. Photo by Hickling Images.

USHL

Stephen Halliday - Center - Dubuque (USHL)

It is not that often you see a high-level player spend four years in the USHL. A big and skilled forward, and a former highly touted prospect, Halliday has improved every year in the league, culminating with a dominating breakout performance this season. The Ohio State commit was the USHL’s scoring leader thanks to improvements made to his explosiveness and conditioning. Halliday is also now the USHL’s all-time leading scorer (passing Sean Farrell). In his final year of eligibility, it seems likely that Halliday will finally hear his name called at the draft. He has certainly earned it.

“You really have to commend Halliday for putting in the work to improve his skating. The improvements made to his first step quickness and his overall agility are extremely noticeable and really helped him to dominate shifts on the regular. Halliday was just an absolute beast at the USHL level this year. His combination of power and skill at the center position is not common on draft day. Ohio State is a really good spot for him too, as he’ll be able to go in there and be an immediate top six forward for them on a quality up and coming team. If I was an NHL team, I wouldn’t be letting him slip through a third NHL draft.” - Brock Otten

Connor Kurth - Wing - Dubuque (USHL)

A breakout star in the USHL, Kurth has paired with Stephen Halliday to form one heck of a dynamic duo. Passed over last year, Kurth has returned to the USHL with a vengeance, improving all facets of his game. The Minnesota commit has consistently been one of the USHL’s highest scoring players this year and his goal scoring ability, combined with his low center of gravity and desire to play through the middle, will make him one of the most coveted re-entry candidates from the United States region this year.

“Pretty much every time I watched Kurth this year (be it with Dubuque or the BioSteel game), he was noticeable for all the right reasons. He’s your classic high energy winger who seems to get better as he initiates and plays through traffic. He skates well. He opens up space and has an attacking mentality. He plays a 200-foot game. However, he also has great scoring instincts and enough skill, as well as a good enough shot to finish off the chances he earns. If an NHL team doesn’t draft Kurth now, they’ll be kicking themselves later when he becomes one of the top NCAA free agents on the market after a few years at Minnesota.” - Brock Otten

Quinn Hutson - Wing - Muskegon (USHL)

The brother of 2022 draft eligible defender and NTDP member Lane Hutson, Quinn is an elusive and skilled winger with a commitment to Boston University. We ranked him late last year (#208) after a very strong rookie year in the USHL, however he progressed even further this year. In his final year of draft eligibility, it is easy to see him attracting attention given his ability to push pace and create in transition. He also had a great performance in the Clark Cup playoffs.

“Everyone enjoys watching Lane, but his older brother Quinn is a player that’s caught my eye since the beginning of the season, and more so in the last few weeks after tracking games with Muskegon as the opponent. Quinn Hutson may be a D+2 in the USHL, but we’ve seen players with that profile turn out well before, and I absolutely love the skill and speed Hutson plays with. He can drive defenses deep in the defensive zone, swing pucks around the boards, fake out defenders with his body weight, pass pucks through seams, and he can certainly score his fair share as well. Hutson is a player I may rather see how he plays in college, but as a re-entry, he’s been exciting, skilled, and fun to watch with a diverse range of offensive talents.” - Will Scouch

Jeremy Wilmer - Center - Tri-City (USHL)

Wilmer’s original draft year (last season) did not go according to plan. A highly touted prospect coming out of his U17 year with the NTDP, Wilmer was surpassed by other players in the lineup eventually and then missed the IIHF U18’s. As a massively undersized forward, this was a death blow for his draft chances. However, Wilmer has returned to the USHL for another year and was sensational for Tri-City, as one of the league’s highest scoring players. The 5’7, Boston University commit can do it all offensively and he has shown that he can be the offensive leader of his team. Will that be enough for an NHL team to overlook his lack of stature?

“The two best players in the USHL are on sharply different ends of the height spectrum. Stephen Halliday, with 1.51 points per game, is 6’4”; Jeremy Wilmer, with 1.50 points per game, is 5’7”. You have to be quite the offensive talent to make the NHL when you’re as small as Wilmer– who is listed at 141 pounds– but an offensive resumé that he’s building may just about force an NHL team to take a flyer on him. Trey Fix-Wolansky, also 5’7”, has six NHL games under his belt as a 22 year old after the Blue Jackets used a seventh-rounder on him after a stellar 19-year-old season in the WHL. Wilmer might be taking the first steps down a similar path with the season that he has had this year. The important distinction between the two right now is that Fix-Wolansky currently has about 40 pounds on Wilmer. A few years in the NCAA with Boston University should help Wilmer get to work on that gap. Skill-wise, Wilmer has what it takes. He was just under a point per game last year for the NTDP U18s and likely would have been a top 100 selection if he brought the same skillset to a more typical frame. He’s a very creative passer and an adept finisher– he just desperately needs to add weight.” - Sam Happi

Lukas Gustafsson - Defense - Chicago (USHL)

A favourite of many video scouting teams last year, Gustafsson played a limited role on a Clark Cup winning Steel squad. Our video team loved his ability to lead the breakout with his feet and create offense by walking the line. However, the sample size was just too small, given his undersized frame and late birthday. This year, Gustafsson has taken on a larger role with Chicago and has thrived, among the leading defenseman scorers in the USHL. The 5’10 defender has a commitment to Boston College next year and should be on the radar of many NHL teams again.

“Gustafsson definitely made the most of increased ice time this year with the Steel. He is a really fun player to watch. His four-way mobility and edgework is among the best of any defender in the USHL. This really helps him to be elusive, especially as he starts the breakout. Gustafsson is just near impossible to pin down. But he’s also a better defensive player than people might think after looking at his size. He defends aggressively and will take away space to make up for his lack of reach, knowing that his four-way quickness gives him the ability to recover and cover ground. I know our video scout team loves him even more this year, so I took the time to watch him a little more closely based on their recommendation.” - Brock Otten

Kenny Connors - Center - Dubuque (USHL)

One of the most improved players in the USHL this season, the 6’1 pivot essentially tripled his production in his second year with Dubuque. As a result, he was rewarded with a spot in the BioSteel All American game. A UMass commit, Connors is the kind of hard working and pace pushing center that could carve out a long NHL career with continued development at the NCAA level.

“Dubuque has been a lot of fun to watch this year, with two electric scoring lines anchored by several players on this list like Halliday, Kurth, Connors, and Vegas draft pick Jackson Hallum (whom they added at the trade deadline). Connors is not the most creative or individually skilled player on the ice. Sometimes his feet move a little too quick for his hands. However, he is an intelligent playmaker who is a consistently hard worker. He finishes his checks. He backchecks hard. He wins races to loose pucks and wins battles along the wall. He can drive the net. He also has a solid top speed that allows him to impact the game in a lot of different ways. By improving his confidence with the puck and in his shooting ability, he has really rounded out his game offensively this season. There is definitely a projection here as an NHL role player and he is the kind of hard-working player that UMass has developed very well in the last decade.” - Brock Otten

Luke Mittelstadt - Defense - Madison (USHL)

The brother of Buffalo’s Casey Mittelstadt, Luke came into the 2020/21 season with a fair amount of draft hype. Early on, he was considered one of the top high school options for the draft. But his disappointing showing in the USHL (split between Lincoln and Eden Prairie) really caused scouts to re-evaluate his potential to be an impact offensive defender. Fast forward to this year. A move to Madison has completely re-invigorated Mittelstadt as he was consistently near the top of the defenseman scoring race (behind Mitchell Miller) all season. In fact, his 19 goals were the most by a U19 defender in the league since Matt Donovan scored 19 in 2009. The University of Minnesota commit has certainly put himself back on the scouting radar.

“One of the main concerns with Mittelstadt’s game last year at the USHL level was a lack of killer instinct. There was a real complacency at that level that prevented him from being a standout at either end. This year, he looks like a totally different player. He is consistently looking to jump up in the play or play aggressively high in the offensive zone. His four-way mobility is still an asset and his edge work and lateral quickness is a major reason why he has scored so many goals this year. Not only does he have a howitzer, but he walks the line so well. Composed with the puck, Mittelstadt is great at starting the breakout too. Defensively, there is still a need to get stronger and the physical intensity still wavers a bit, but progress has been made in all facets this year and he should be a slam dunk pick in this draft.” - Brock Otten

Damien Carfagna - Defense - Sioux City (USHL)

Last year with Green Bay, Carfagna’s original draft year, the late born ‘02 defender certainly flashed some projectable skills. In particular, his skating ability always stood out and he showed great potential as a puck mover because of it. However, a lack of production as an older first-time eligible defender really caused doubts about his NHL ceiling. From opening puck drop this year to the end (Clark Cup playoffs), Carfagna has emerged as one of the top defenders in the USHL. His offensive production dropped a bit after a deal to Sioux City, however his overall play and versatility has made him a likely re-entry selection. The University of New Hampshire commit also made waves by scoring the OT winner in the BioSteel All American game this year.

“I remember pushing for us to list Carfagna late last year in our rankings because he was someone who always stood out for Green Bay despite limited ice time and production. Now that he’s playing a ton, we’ve seen him transform into one of the best defenders in the USHL. His skating is a major asset. His quickness allows him to be an entry machine and he has gained the confidence to be more aggressive using his feet to help him exit the zone. Additionally, Carfagna has improved in the defensive zone. He’s not the biggest, strongest, or most physical, but his positioning and awareness are terrific. His quickness laterally and in transition allows him to take great routes to loose pucks and defend pace well too. After a few years at the NCAA level, he could turn into a very solid NHL defensive prospect.” - Brock Otten

Jack Harvey - Wing/Center - Chicago (USHL)

Last year, Harvey was consistently listed as everyone’s favourite diamond in the rough from the USHL. He found ways to standout despite receiving limited ice time on a stacked Chicago team. But given his lack of size/strength, limited production did not do him any favors at the draft. Now an integral part of Chicago’s offense, the Boston University commit has emerged as a serious draft candidate again thanks to a strong offensive season. This is especially true of his late season play, as Harvey finished the year on a high note as one of the hottest players in the USHL. Although Chicago disappointed in the playoffs, Harvey had a solid year.

“I believe Harvey’s best asset is his brain. He is a highly intelligent player. It is why he is such a versatile player too. Not the biggest or most physical, but Harvey is a strong penalty killer and defensive presence because of his awareness in all three zones. Harvey also has great vision and is a quick thinker/problem solver with the puck on his stick. With strong straight-line speed, he can push pace and lead the attack, but he rarely misses the mark on a pass in transition. The key for Harvey at Boston University will be continued growth physically. I’m not sure there’s a true projection as a scoring line player at the next level, so Harvey will need to continue to get stronger, quicker, and more tenacious to play through the middle six at the NHL level. I think he’s done enough to be drafted this year though.” - Brock Otten

Garrett Schifsky - Center - Waterloo (USHL)

Waterloo was not terrific this year, but one standout was this USHL rookie (essentially since he only played eight games last year), who led the team in scoring and in goal scoring by a significant amount. The undersized forward (5’9) is a commit to the University of Michigan and his breakout season as an offensive leader is likely to have drawn some attention.

“This young man can absolutely wire the puck. His shot is a major asset for Waterloo on the powerplay. I also love how fearless he is. He plays through contact well and consistently finds his way to the net despite being a smaller player. This competitiveness serves him well as a penalty killer too. The only thing you’d love to see is for Schifsky to improve his quickness. For a smaller player, he’s not the world’s most dynamic skater. There is room for him to improve his stride length as his use of shorter, choppy strides prevents him from being a truly dangerous transitional attacker. Yet, because of his strong puck control, use of linear crossovers, and vision, he does manage to find a way to be the lead in counter attacks. I wonder if someone throws a late round pick at him this year in hopes that his physical tools continue to improve to better support his skill and finishing ability.” - Brock Otten

Carter Schade - Defense - Lincoln (USHL)

One of the most competitive physical defenders in the USHL, Schade, a Penn State commit, also happens to be one of the most improved players this season too. Playing a ton for Lincoln and in all situations, Schade has also doubled his offensive production. The stocky defender (at 5’11, 200lbs) is going to be a terrific NCAA defender and should be the radar of NHL scouts this year.

“I absolutely love how Schade plays. I don’t necessarily believe the offensive upside is significant, although he is a strong skater. However, he absolutely suffocates in the defensive end. He makes up for his lack of reach by consistently keeping tight gaps and he makes opposing forwards earn every inch of ice against him. A feared hitter, you could make a great highlight package of his open ice hits this season. Players with Schade’s profile typically get drafted. He is only one year out of being passed over at the draft and he has made positive strides in nearly every area. Sure you’d love him to be bigger, but you can’t overlook the positive impact he has at the defensive end.” - Brock Otten

Tyler Haskins - Center - Madison (USHL)

Speaking of improved players in their second year of eligibility, insert Madison center Tyler Haskins. The former Chicago Mission standout used a move from Sioux Falls to Madison to take that next step as a USHL player this season. A University of Michigan commit, Haskins is that rangy, playmaking pivot that all NHL scouts are drawn to.

“Haskins is a player who is at his best near the goal line. He is tough to handle behind the net as he works the cycle and spins off checks and has the vision to find open teammates in the slot as he draws extra attention. He also camps out near the net and shows strong finishing skills through traffic. There is some James Van Riemsdyk to his game, at least in terms of a stylistic comparison. Next steps would include further improvement to his explosiveness and more consistent physical intensity in all three zones. But there is some raw potential here for Haskins to develop into a quality middle six player at the next level. If he does not get drafted, he could be the type of player who plays four years at Michigan and turns himself into a quality free agent signing by the time he graduates. The raw tools are impressive.” - Brock Otten

Jacob Guevin - Defense - Muskegon (USHL)

Our 220th ranked player for last year’s NHL Draft, Guevin has picked up right where he left off last year. Once again, he was one of the highest scoring defenders in the USHL. Will it be enough for the University of Nebraska-Omaha commit to get selected this year?

“I think you need to commend Guevin for coming back to the USHL this year and putting in the work to improve some of the areas that prevented him from being drafted last year. He has dialed up the physical intensity. He has improved his ability to defend in transition. He is taking the bull by the horns more offensively in transition, standing out at five on five and not just on the powerplay. His skating also looks more explosive. He is still not the biggest defender, and he will probably never be a defensive standout (there are still lapses of focus/attention). However, he has probably done enough to prove that he can be a competent play driver. His vision as an offensive player really stands out.” - Brock Otten

Cameron Whitehead - Goaltender - Lincoln (USHL)

A lot has been written about how weak this year’s goaltending crop is. Because of that, NHL scouts are going to really need to dig deep to find talent. Insert USHL rookie Cameron Whitehead. The former Ottawa area netminder has taken a long road to relevance, but he has the size and athleticism package that NHL scouts are looking for these days. He also has committed to Northeastern, a school which has developed netminders well in recent years (like another diamond in the rough out of Eastern Canada, Devon Levi).

“There are some real standout qualities here and raw athletic potential. Whitehead moves well laterally, and it allows him to track the play effectively. He looks poised and confident in the crease, challenging shooters and cutting down angles. With good size, he fights through traffic well and can be a real wall when he is dialed in. However, it is clear that he is still learning how to properly use his size in the crease. He has some scrambling tendencies that cause him to be out of position, as he drops down too early or over commits to play too far in one direction. Once a goaltending coach gets him to settle down and trust his size more, his consistency should improve. This is also true of his rebound control. Whitehead is very much a pure stopper right now who simply tries to get his body in front of pucks. He struggles to secure initial shots, especially when fighting through traffic. I love the fact that he has chosen Northeastern as a strong goaltending development program could really bring out the best in Whitehead’s raw athletic tools.” - Brock Otten

Brendan Fitzgerald - Defense - Cedar Rapids (USHL)

The youngest of the three Fitzgerald brothers, Brendan is just finishing his first season in the USHL with Cedar Rapids. The New Hampshire commit plays a similar game to Casey and Ryan, both of whom were drafted. The 5’11 defender also improved over the course of the USHL season, after playing prep in Massachusetts last season.

“As you might expect from a Fitzgerald, Brendan’s IQ/sense is his best asset. His positioning and awareness in the defensive end is an asset. He defends in transition well with quick feet, and he leads the rush efficiently with a solid top speed. Inside the offensive zone, he holds the line well with good lateral quickness and has become a real asset for Cedar Rapids on the powerplay as the season has gone on. Not a big defender, Fitzgerald tries to make up for that by being aggressive. He will step up early on attackers and plays assertively in the defensive end. This same aggressive mentality is applied in the offensive zone, where he will pinch to keep pucks in or even rotate deep, down low in the offensive zone to keep the cycle going. The next steps for Brendan would be learning to pick his spots better offensively, as he can get caught up ice. His puck skill would best be classified as average, so when pressured, turnovers can be an issue. Keeping things simple and moving the puck quickly are necessary for him. I think his pedigree and progression over the course of the year could be enough to get him drafted.” - Brock Otten

MADISON, WI - JANUARY 14: Michigan State defenseman David Gucciardi (7) during a college hockey match between the University of Wisconsin Badgers and the Michigan State University Spartans on January 14, 2022 at the Kohl Center in Madison, WI. (Photo by Lawrence Iles/Icon Sportswire)

NCAA

David Gucciardi - Defense - Michigan State (NCAA)

Gucciardi was a surprising no draft last year after a strong year in the USHL. However, after playing for four different USHL teams over two seasons, perhaps scouts had more questions about him than answers. Our 111th ranked prospect for the 2021 draft just finished his freshman year at Michigan State and he was one of the most impactful freshman defenders in the NCAA this year. He was one of Michigan State’s main powerplay quarterbacks and finished inside the top 20 of U20 defenseman scoring, while playing 17+ minutes a night on most occasions.

“The Michigan State program is not the powerhouse that it once was, but Gucciardi had a solid freshman year for them. He showed that he can use his plus mobility and big shot to quarterback the powerplay and he continued to be a factor physically in the defensive end. There are still some things to shore up in the defensive end, but I continue to like his potential as a two-way defender because of his combination of physicality, mobility, and offensive skill set. I thought he should have been drafted last year and should go this year.” - Brock Otten

Hunter Strand - Center - Notre Dame (NCAA)

A former member of the U.S. NTDP, Strand had a strong season in the USHL last year with Tri-City, but ultimately went undrafted. The late born 2002 and Alaska native was our 126th ranked prospect last year. Strand just finished up his freshman year at Notre Dame and was an impressive role player for the Fighting Irish.

“Strand is kind of a jack-of-all-trades kind of center. Sometimes that can be a bit of a kiss of death for prospects, but in Strand’s case, his versatility makes him valuable. You’d probably still like to see him become a more dynamic player moving East/West given his average size, but his straight-line speed looks improved, and he is still a skilled finisher in tight. Notre Dame has a pretty deep team, but Strand has already carved out a role and was impressive as a freshman in all three zones. On a team full of NHL draft picks, one has to think that Strand has a chance to be another in that group, in his final year of draft eligibility. Of course, there’s also a chance that teams take a wait and see approach with him too, to see if his offensive game can be taken to that next level as he matures further.” - Brock Otten

Ryan Kirwan - Wing - Penn State (NCAA)

A former highly touted prospect, Kirwan’s development stalled at the USHL level and it ultimately led to him going undrafted to this point. The big winger, however, silenced a lot of critics with his terrific freshman season for Penn State in 2022. The only undrafted player inside the top 20 of U20 scoring in the NCAA this past season, Kirwan was a fixture on the Penn State powerplay and finished the year as the team’s third leading scorer.

“Kirwan’s game is not perfect. You’d love to see him use his size a little more consistently away from the puck. He could also stand to improve the explosiveness of his first few strides. However, you can’t argue with the results he achieved in his first NCAA season. He drives the middle and plays with skill. Big wingers who can finish and make skilled plays through traffic do not grow on trees. I believe that there is a real chance that an NHL team looks at Kirwan as a draft selection this year. If he continues to blossom, he will be a highly coveted free agent given his pro frame and ability to work in the slot. So why not secure his rights now with a later pick?” - Brock Otten

Hunter McKown - Wing - Colorado College (NCAA)

A former role player with the U.S. NTDP, McKown’s first season with Colorado College last year was not great. However, he returned for his sophomore season and improved greatly for a Colorado College program that is trying to rebuild itself. Already a strong two-way forward, the added offensive element to his game this year, when combined with his size, could be attractive to NHL teams this year.

“McKown has emerged as Colorado College’s top scorer as a sophomore, adding an offensive element to a game that was strictly oriented around responsible defensive play up to this point. His offensive contributions in two years with the NTDP were limited to just 20 points in 82 games, with McKown serving as the lowest-scoring regular forward on his team in both years with the program. He’s flipped that script in 2021-22, largely relying on a much-improved shot for his new production. A sluggish release and ineffective shot limited McKown in the past, but his shot appears overhauled from his NTDP days: an increase in strength has produced significant power, while McKown’s much-quickened release has proved to be a problem for opposing goaltenders. McKown’s one-timer has made him a central figure on Colorado College’s powerplay, where a focus is working the puck through the slot and into McKown’s wheelhouse. Increased opportunity and confidence have also unveiled a nice set of offensive instincts, as McKown often places himself in the right spot at the right time to collect rebound and tap-ins. The expansion of McKown’s scoring game has elevated him from an almost strictly defensive forward to his team’s top offensive weapon and his expanded offensive skillset, in addition to his pre-existing defensive game, could finally catch the eye of an NHL team this time around.” - Sam Happi

Dominic James - Center/Wing - Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

It seems like every year a player comes out of nowhere to make the U.S.’ squad for the World Junior Championships. This year, that player was Dominic James. Even though the tournament was short lived, James had a very strong freshman year for a terrific Minnesota-Duluth team as their third line center. His competitive two-way game is likely to have caught a few eyes this season.

“Tough luck for James that the World Juniors got canceled because he seemed to be firmly in the lineup as a third liner in a shutdown role. He even scored in a pre-tournament game. But James was also impressive for a Minnesota-Duluth team that lost a tight game to Denver in the regional finals of the NCAA tournament (of which James had a strong game). He’s definitely not a high skill guy. His ceiling at the NHL level will be as a bottom six forward. However, he is a very impressive skater. When you combine his quickness with his tenaciousness and intelligent two-way game, you have someone built perfectly for a checking line role in today’s NHL. I have no doubt that James will be a draft pick somewhere this year.” - Brock Otten

Owen Gallatin - Defense - Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

Speaking of Minnesota-Duluth, another freshman who had a very strong year was undersized defender Owen Gallatin. Much like Michigan State’s David Gucciardi, Gallatin was among the NCAA’s highest scoring freshman defenders. As the season went on, the former U.S. NTDP defender’s ice time increased considerably and by year’s end, he was firmly in the Bulldog’s top four and leading the team’s top powerplay unit. He finished only two points behind highly regarded defensive prospect Wyatt Kaiser for the team lead in defensive scoring.

“It is easy to see why Gallatin has had instant success at the NCAA level for a strong program. He doesn’t back down from anyone despite being 5’8. There is a lot of a guy like Jared Spurgeon in him. He’s not a dynamic offensive defender in the sense that you will consistently see him leading the charge out of the defensive end with his feet. He is more likely to make a quick stretch pass. However, he is such an intelligent defender at both ends. He quarterbacks the powerplay because of how efficiently he moves the puck inside the zone and how he can break down coverage with his four-way mobility. He defends well because of excellent anticipation and stick placement, in addition to a tenacious attitude. An argument could be made that Gallatin was Minnesota-Duluth’s best defender this year, even ahead of Wyatt Kaiser. That’s impressive given that the Bulldogs were one of the top teams in the country, especially defensively.” - Brock Otten

Ty Mueller - Wing/Center - Nebraska-Omaha (NCAA)

Even though he battled through some injuries, it was an impressive freshman season for Mueller, who played for Nebraska-Omaha as an 18/19 year old. Passed over last year after an abbreviated AJHL season, Mueller was one of the highest scoring U19 players in the NCAA this season. His 0.54 points per game was sixth in the country this year among U19 players, ahead of many NHL draft selections, and ahead of fellow ‘03 Jack Hughes (of Northeastern) who is considered a possible top 50 selection as a first time draft eligible (due to a later birthday).

“Mueller entered the AJHL season last year as a possible draft candidate after a terrific preseason and start, but the pandemic pauses just disrupted play too much. This year with UNO, I think we got a pretty good indication that if it were a normal year (a full AJHL season with a World Junior A Challenge), he likely would have been selected. Mueller’s production this year was no fluke. He is a tenacious, yet skilled player. He does most of his damage within that home plate area by outworking defenders, but he also has the speed to be an impactful player in transition. He needs to get stronger to be more consistent. He can be easily outmuscled at times, but the potential is great, and UNO is a great spot for him.” - Brock Otten

Bennett Zmolek - Defense - Minnesota State (NCAA)

Zmolek’s playing time this year was certainly up and down, but you can’t overlook the fact that he was a near regular rotation player (and consistent penalty killer) on one of the NCAA’s top teams this season. The 6’3, right shot defender combines strong four way mobility with excellent reach to be a potential shutdown defender at the NCAA level and beyond.

“Zmolek didn’t play the final couple of months (including during Minnesota State’s run in the NCAA tournament), but he made a big enough impact when he did play to warrant a look from an NHL team. 6’3, right shot defenders with sound defensive instincts and good mobility do not grow on trees. He is never going to be an impactful offensive defender. His skill set is limited in this regard. He is also more of a positional, stick on puck defender, rather than an intense physical defender. But with his quickness and reach, he closes quickly and defends pace well. The upside in the defensive end as he adds strength is significant. If an NHL team loves the program and Zmolek’s place within it (he will move up the depth chart next year with Minnesota State losing its captain and alternate captain on the backend, in addition to their only NHL drafted blueliner), he could be someone drafted late this year.” - Brock Otten

2021 NHL Draft Wrap-up: Favourite Picks By Round Plus The Best of the Undrafted

Brock Otten — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 15:00:39 +0000

The weirdest draft year that I have ever covered is finally over, as the 2021 NHL Draft concluded this past weekend. Considering the circumstances, we at McKeen’s are incredibly happy with our coverage this year. 25 of our top 31 were selected in the first round and only five of our top 100 went unselected (the highest being Eric Alarie at #70).

My review will look at my favourite selections in each round, in addition to the best players not selected.

ROUND ONE

Mason McTavish. Photo Dan Hickling/Hickling Images

#3 Overall to Anaheim - Mason McTavish

We had McTavish going to Anaheim in our mock draft and I really like this selection for them. I see Mason providing a lot of versatility to the Ducks in the near future. He could slot behind Trevor Zegras as the team’s number two center, bringing power and tenacity to complement their selection of skilled wingers. However, because of his terrific shot, McTavish could also look extremely comfortable on the first powerplay unit with Zegras, operating as his triggerman and helping to create some space for him to operate.

#18 Overall to Winnipeg - Chaz Lucius

Sure, the injury issues are a concern. It has delayed some development in his skating ability. In addition, Lucius’ playmaking ability and vision could stand to improve. But we had Lucius in our top 10 for a reason. He projects as possibly the best pure goal scorer from this class because of how well he navigates the net front and the middle of the ice. The Jets need someone like Lucius, and he is not only terrific value at this spot, but also a great fit with the organization.

#20 Overall to Minnesota - Jesper Wallstedt

What fantastic value for Minnesota here. The top-rated goaltender on our board and our fifth rated player, Wallstedt slid to number 20 and he gives the Wild a young goaltender to build around in the future. Wallstedt may not have the elite physical tools of Cossa (who went ahead of him), but he is considered one of the best play trackers to come through the draft in recent years.

HM - Fabian Lysell to Boston (#21)

Logan Stankoven. Photo Credit: Allen Douglas / Kamloops Blazers

ROUND TWO

#34 overall to Anaheim - Olen Zellweger

While Anaheim took Zellweger higher than we had him in our rankings (#42), it is still a terrific selection. Zellweger is the perfect defender for today’s NHL because of how well he skates and how well he processes the game. Critical thinkers with pace rarely fail, even if they lack ideal size. If Zellweger had played a full year in the WHL before starring at the U18’s, he could have been selected even higher.

#47 overall to Dallas - Logan Stankoven

While we did not expect Stankoven to go as high as we had him rated (#13), there was a belief that he would go higher than 47. He is proof that size still matters in this draft (see Tyler Boucher at #10). In the mid second round, he provides terrific value to the Stars as he has the skill and compete level to be an Alex Debrincat level star in the NHL.

#52 overall to New York Islanders - Aatu Raty

Our 12th overall rated prospect for the draft, Raty suffered a drastic fall, especially when you consider that he came into the draft season as a potential first overall candidate. The Islanders have to be ecstatic (and they were) to grab Raty since they did not own a first-round selection this year. He was unquestionably higher on their own list, and he has the potential to be an impact player if he can put this year’s disappointment behind him.

HM - Francesco Pinelli to Los Angeles (#42)

Skellefteå's Simon Robertsson during the ice hockey match in the SHL between Skellefteå and Brynäs on 5 December 2020 in Skellefteå.
Photo: Ola Westerberg / BILDBYRÅN

ROUND THREE

#71 overall to St. Louis - Simon Robertsson

Our 14th overall ranked player, the Blues traded up to secure the right to Robertsson after seeing him still available on the board. His U18 performance was no doubt disappointing, but he is still a potentially well rounded, goal scoring winger who could have a very long NHL career. A team without a second-round selection, you have to believe that the Blues had Robertsson ranked significantly higher than this...perhaps even as a first rounder on their board.

#81 overall to San Jose - Ben Gaudreau

After Cossa and Wallstedt went in round one, it would be nearly 60 selections before the next goalie would be selected (Kolosov at #78). We had Gaudreau ranked as a borderline first rounder, and we stand by that ranking. The top goalie from this year’s U18’s, Gaudreau has all the tools you are looking for from a starting NHL netminder and has the potential to be just as good as the players taken in the first round. Had the OHL actually played this year, I don’t believe Gaudreau would be available here.

#95 overall to Buffalo - Josh Bloom

Have to go with a personal favourite here. I had a feeling that he would be selected in the 80-110 range. Bloom didn’t play this year, but the Sabres did not hold that against him. He has everything you look for from a top six supporting winger today; size, speed, skill, and awareness. This has the potential to be a terrific pick for the Sabres.

HM - Stanislav Svozil to Columbus (#69)

Nathan Del Mastor. Photo courtesy of the OHL

ROUND FOUR

#98 overall to Florida - Josh Lopina

A national champion with UMass this year, Lopina was the Hockey East’s rookie of the year. We ranked him to be selected last year and this year, in his second and third years of eligibility. Lopina has a chance to be a Barclay Goodrow kind of player for the Panthers, someone who can excel at both ends and provide positional versatility. It was inevitable that he would be one of the first “re-entry” candidates off the board.

#105 overall to Chicago - Ethan Del Mastro

We had Del Mastro ranked 52nd overall this year, so naturally there is belief from our team that this was a great pick by Chicago. Del Mastro is a big, physical defender who also moves well. Over the course of the U18’s, his play improved, which should not be shocking given that it was his first action of the season. Look for him to show more offensively as he matures.

#125 overall to New York Islanders - Cameron Berg

Like Lopina, we had Berg ranked for last year’s draft. However, after a strong USHL season, he secured his selection this year and it is a shrewd one by the Islanders. Berg has the potential to develop into a strong two-way power center after a few years at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. This is especially true if he can continue to upgrade his skating, which he has done already.

HM - Dylan Duke to Tampa Bay (#126)

Jack Bar. Courtesy of the USHL

ROUND FIVE

#130 overall to Anaheim - Sean Tschigerl

No question, if the WHL season is not severely shortened, Tschigerl has a chance to go much higher than this. Over the final ten games of the season, he was playing as one of the league’s top goal scoring options. He brings speed. He brings physicality. It is easy to see him developing into a terrific middle six scoring option for the Ducks. We had him ranked #92.

#138 overall to Dallas - Jack Bar

Our 37th ranked player, Bar had a terrific year for the Clark Champion Chicago Steel. A Harvard recruit, Bar improved with each passing month in the USHL and steadily climbed our rankings as a result. While he will require patience to reach his full potential, the big, physical defender has the kind of raw tools that often prove to be moldable. Harvard has done a terrific job of developing defenders like Bar in recent years.

#153 overall to Toronto - Ty Voit

Another OHL player who did not play this season, Voit has to be considered one of the draft’s best pure playmakers. No question he needs to bulk up, as he can be too easily pushed off the puck; his size is a concern. But his creativity and puck skill are tremendous, and this is the type of high upside pick good teams take in the middle rounds.

HM - Justin Robidas to Carolina (#147)

Ryan Mast of the Sarnia Sting. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

ROUND SIX

#178 overall to Vancouver - Connor Lockhart

The former third overall pick in the OHL Priority Draft, Lockhart had an up and down U17 season the last time the OHL played. Then he did not play this year. Tough for him to prove that he could have been an elite level offensive option. But he does possess that kind of potential. A very high-end skater and someone with terrific skill and instincts, if Lockhart was a point per game player in the OHL this year, he is likely a top 50 selection. Instead, the Canucks get him in the sixth round. Well worth the gamble that he improves.

#180 overall to Edmonton - Matvei Petrov

Petrov is not without his warts. His wavering physical engagement level is concerning. The U18’s were a disaster for him. However, few players in this draft class can shoot the puck like he can. He is absolutely lethal from the faceoff circle, especially on the powerplay. If he can find a way to be consistently motivated without the puck, the potential is extremely high. He will play in the OHL with North Bay next season.

#181 overall to Boston - Ryan Mast

I know it seems like there has been a lot of OHL flavour on this list; maybe I am bias, however I do feel that many OHL players selected will prove to be “steals” due to the circumstances they were dealt with this season. Mast is a very solid defensive defender who has length, mobility, and strong awareness. He was already a top defender for Sarnia as a U17 player but did not play this season (except for the Erie showcase), preventing him from showing progression as an offensive player. It is easy to see him developing into an NHL defender.

HM - Liam Gilmartin to San Jose (#167)

Södertäljes Albert Sjöberg, March 2021 i Stockholm.
Photo: Jesper Zerman / BILDBYRÅN /

ROUND SEVEN

#203 overall to New Jersey - Zakhar Bardakov

A “re-entry” who was terrific for Russia at the World Juniors in a supporting role, Bardakov is someone we had ranked at #138 because we believe in his potential to develop into a quality bottom six, penalty killing option in the NHL. He is likely close to making an impact in New Jersey too.

#207 overall to Dallas - Albert Sjoberg

Our 86th ranked prospect for the draft, Sjoberg is someone we felt would go earlier. However, his disappointing performance against men in the Allsvenskan likely contributed to his fall. This is a player with a great work rate and who has the skill and sense to develop into a high-quality finisher.

#219 overall to Carolina - Joel Nystrom

A smaller defender, but one with a serious chance to become an NHL player because of his strong two-way abilities and mobility. Selected in his second year of draft eligibility, Nystrom showed great improvement at the SHL level as the season progressed, performing especially well in the playoffs for Farjestad. We had him ranked at #169, but there was some belief that he could go even higher than that.

HM - Joe Vrbetic to Montreal (#214)

Eric Alarie (9) Photo by Keith Hershmiller

BEST OF THE UNDRAFTED

Eric Alarie

After a breakout season with Moose Jaw (that saw him over a point per game), this strong, support winger was ranked 71st by us. Ultimately, NHL teams must have felt that his skating still required too much improvement.

Jiri Tichacek

An undersized Czech defender, Tichacek may not have been selected as high as we had him ranked (#76), but to see him go through completely was a surprise. A Jared Spurgeon type, Tichacek will have to continue to prove that his lack of size is not a detriment.

Trevor Wong

One of the draft elite skaters, Wong came into this draft season with a fair amount of hype. A disjointed WHL season likely led to some consistency issues. While he may not be large, he does have the speed and tenacity to make up for it. If he bounces back strong with Kelowna next year, he will be selected.

Florian Elias

One of the breakout stars of this year’s World Junior Championships, it was surprising to see Elias go unselected after starring between Peterka and Stutzle on Germany’s top line. A workhorse type with skill, Elias should remain on the NHL radar.

Marcus Almquist

A poor showing upon returning home to Denmark was the likely reason that this tiny (5’7) play creator was not selected. One of the youngest players eligible, perhaps there is some physical maturation still to occur, allowing him to perform better playing against men.

Cameron Rowe

A former USDP member, Rowe looked like a candidate to be selected in his final year of eligibility and that is why we ranked him at #104. After a strong freshman year at Wisconsin, the 6’3 netminder was named to the Big 10’s all-rookie team (along with high NHL picks Faber, Power, Johnson, Beniers, and Bordeleau). Look for him to be a top free agent candidate down the line if he continues to play well for the Badgers.

Valterri Koskela

A late ‘02 defender, Koskela emerged as a steady two-way defender in Liiga this year despite being a little undersized. As such, we ranked him at #108 because we felt that his mobility could be a big asset at the NHL level. I suppose projection concerns (what role does he play in the NHL?) kept him off the board.

David Gucciardi

A smooth skating, two-way rearguard, Gucciardi had a strong year for Waterloo in the USHL. His decision making does leave some to be desired, but the tools are there. He will now head to Michigan State next year and with a good freshman year, he could easily hear his name called in 2022.

Peter Reynolds

Ranked inside the Top 100 by pretty much every independent scouting agency (except for us at #111), Reynolds was probably the most shocking undrafted player. The former highly touted two-way center didn’t have quite the season expected of him after coming over from the BCHL, but he still has the potential to be an NHL player in some capacity.

Sasha Teleguine

A player whose production did not match his talent level in the BCHL, Teleguine was considered by many to be a mid-round “sleeper.” Committed to the University of Connecticut, the highly skilled and deceptive winger will look to have a strong freshmen year to prove that he should have been selected.

HM - Stuart Rolofs, Hunter Strand, Nick DeGrazia, Miguel Tourigny, Arvid Eljas, Dmitri Zugan, Henry Nelson, James Hardie

USHL: 2020-21 Playoff Preview – Expect Entertaining Hockey with Chicago a Clear Favourite

Ryan Wagman — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 15:27:15 +0000

If there is an exception to the across-the-board negative impact of COVID-19 on the world of hockey, it may rest in the USHL. As north of the border, the three leagues of the CHL were in disarray – at best – the USHL, played a fairly “normal” year.

Sure, the league proceeded without the participation of the Madison Capitals (regional COVID restrictions) or the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders (a Derecho huffed and puffed and blew the arena down), but the rest of the league played (an approximately) 54 game schedule with rather few disruptions.

Not only that, but in terms of quality, the league was better than ever, as a number of players who had expected to suit up for Canadian teams – both CHL and Jr. A – were given an opportunity to play for various USHL teams as their regular leagues were delayed indefinitely, or outright cancelled. Those bonus players included some that were drafted already, including Cross Hanas, Bear Hughes, and Danil Gushchin*. Other drafted players came in from the Ivy League schools, who did not play a hockey schedule this year. In addition to the likes of Henry Thrun, Jack Malone, and Austin Wong coming to the USHL after some time in college, others like Sean Farrell and Alex Laferriere, who had intended to start collegiate life this year, were forced to stay back for one more year in the Midwest.

*Gushchin, who had played the previous two seasons with Muskegon, was expected to play in Ontario with Niagara for the 2020-21 season, but with the OHL in permanent statis, he was loaned back to the Lumberjacks, where he put up his best season yet.

And then there were the draft-eligible ringers who unexpectedly joined the league and played so well that they have legitimate first round consideration at the end of it. I am thinking, of course, of Cole Sillinger, who joined Sioux Falls, before it was known when, or if, the WHL would get going, and Ayrton Martino and Jack Bar, who had played in Ontario last year and had been planning on playing in the BCHL this year before Canadian restrictions pushed them to the USHL, with Omaha and Chicago, respectively.

Of course, there were many other unexpected players in the league this year, with those mentioned only scratching the surface of the most famous names.

So, before we preview the postseason, which begins this Friday (Apr. 30), let’s pour one out for the six teams that didn’t make, and give a word to the top 1-3 draft eligible players from those squads.

Team USA

One point behind Dubuque for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference – although far further back via points percentage (.510-.481), the USNTDP team that would have played in the USHL playoffs had they made it would have been the U17 team. The best of that group – Rutger McGroarty, Isaac Howard, Ryan Chesley, Lane Hutson, Charlie Stramel and others – are playing with the U18 team in Texas at the WU18 tournament. No draft eligibles but remember those names for next season.

Youngstown Phantoms

By points percentage, easily the weakest team in the league. The aforementioned Jack Malone, a Vancouver draft pick, was far and away the top performer on the team, which is to be expected from a player with a year at Cornell under his belt. Among first year draft eligibles, Japanese import Yusako Ando was the most notable, although his second year in the league was worse than his first. He can create for others, but he doesn’t skate well enough to make up for his slight 5-7” frame. The only other draft eligible who ever made a positive impression on me from this roster was blueliner Austen May. The Providence commit is on the small side, but he is really fleet of foot and shows decent attention to detail off the puck.

Des Moines Buccaneers

Despite the presence of three drafted players – Alex Laferriere (LA), Noah Ellis (Vgk), and Lucas Mercuri (Car), the Buccaneers struggled this year, particularly in terms of putting the puck in the net. The drafted guys were all solid, but too few of the rest of the roster could match their output. Perhaps things would have been different if Paul Davey hadn’t of left mid-season for a stint back home in Connecticut. Davey and Scout Truman were the two most notable first time draft eligible on the roster, but neither really put their stamp on the season. If there are to be any Buccaneers drafted this year, they will be among the redraft candidates. To that end, file away the names of Matt Choupani and Remington Koepple. Choupani is a forward who lacks much in the way of physical tools but can play the puck well. Koepple is a goalie who had decent numbers in his first year in the league, although he has only average size and athleticism and he chocked in the BioSteel game, hurting his standing for some.

Lincoln Stars

The Stars went heavy on the ringers partway through the season. Cross Hanas was already mentioned, but he was just one of four players brought in from the WHL Portland Winterhawks, joining Clay Hanas (no relation), Jack O’Brien, and James Stefan, as well as Charles-Alexis Legault from West Kelowna in the BCHL and Michael Mastrodomenico from AAA hockey in Quebec. Simply put, the shuffled team never gelled, and the newcomers couldn’t get into the swing of the USHL.

O’Brien was the biggest disappointment. There was some expectation that he could be a high round pick this year, but one goal and six assists in 23 games ended that sentiment. Blueliner Legault didn’t hurt his stock too much, as he still has great size and skates well and shoots from his right side. Stefan, son of former first overall pick Patrik Stefan, had enough moments to maybe convince some team to call his name in the late rounds. A kind word also to big bruising winger Gleb Veremeyev. Veremeyev isn’t an offensive threat, but one of the top PIM players in the league is a threat, nonetheless. The USHL is not a very physical league, and when a player has that size and plays with that snarl, he sometimes gets drafted, such as we saw with Nick Capone last year and Martin Pospisil in 2018.

Waterloo Black Hawks

Generally contenders, the Black Hawks find themselves out of the playoffs for the first time since 2014-15, and only the second time in 14 seasons for which there were playoffs. Fielding one of the smaller and least experienced lineups in the league, this just wasn’t their year. Their one drafted player, Toronto’s Wyatt Schingoethe, regressed heavily from his strong draft year. The team cycled through goalies, with three seeing significant minutes. Remember the name of Emmett Croteau, the best performing of their netminders, as he won’t be draft eligible until 2022.

Among players eligible this year, the most impressive were second time eligible defenseman Cooper Wylie, a USHL rookie, who can play the puck and skate well enough to make his ornery game effective, if not spectacular. He could be drafted. On the other hand, David Gucciardi, acquired in an early season trade from Youngstown, will be drafted. His game is raw, and his mistakes are often critical, but he has tools, and his instincts are good enough to think he can be a good one if he relies on his instincts all the time.

Sioux Falls Stampede

The Western Conference bottom feeders are a mystery. In the last USHL playoffs, the Stampede took home the title. In addition to their usual solid team, this year they brought in the highest profile ringer in Cole Sillinger, who didn’t disappoint, with a team leading 46 points despite only playing in 31 games. He is a sniper with an NHL style game who will be back in the WHL next year. The USHL rarely sees a player of his caliber, whether talking about skill or about reading the game, yet he couldn’t drag the Stampede upwards on his own. I would be surprised if he isn’t the first player from this year’s USH: crop to play in the NHL.

Defender Brent Johnson was one of the better draft eligible defenders in the league as well. A power play specialist with good wheels and an ornery side, his season ended right before the BioSteel All American Game due to a shoulder injury, but could hear his name called in the 50-80 range of the draft if his medicals hold up.

Although not as high profile, I also have time for second time eligible, defenseman Nate Schweitzer, who can do a lot well, but nothing spectacularly, and winger Mike Citara, who can skate and shoot. I don’t expect either to be drafted, but I wouldn’t be surprised if either was.

The Playoffs

The format this year is simple. The top four teams from each conference made it in. All series are best-of-threes. Top seed plays the fourth seed, and second seed plays the third seed. All games are hosted by the higher seed. One series per weekend until one team lifts the Clark Cup. Let’s go!

Western Conference

Jack Peart. Photo Dan Hickling, Hickling Images

#1 Tri-City Storm vs #4 Fargo Force

The Western Conference was incredibly tight at the top with the playoff picture not being settled until the final weekend of the regular season. The points percentage difference between Tri-City and Fargo (32 percentage points) was less than between Fargo and fifth place Des Moines (34 percentage points).

Fargo was the third best defensive team in the league, although Tri-City was the best at keeping the puck out of its net. Neither team is known for filling their opponents’ nets either, but both had generally done enough to walk away with points more often than not. In fact, they are quite evenly matched. The difference in these three games (outside of home ice advantage) is likely to rest in special teams. Fargo was mediocre on both the power play and the penalty kill, while the Storm were strong with the man advantage and almost impregnable on the penalty kill, leading the league with a breathtaking 88.3% kill rate. To Fargo’s credit, they have played far more of their season at 5-on-5 than Tri-City. And they will have to do that again this weekend to keep their season alive.

Beyond the expected close games, another reason to watch this series is the head-to-head matchup between two very interesting and talented draft eligibles. On Fargo, that would be Tristan Broz, a two-way center with a good motor and the vision to be a power play weapon. The Minnesota commit ran away with the scoring lead on his team. His numbers would be even more impressive if he had more talented teammates to play with. On Tri-City, the man of the hour is Matthew Knies. Knies started his season painfully slow, but ended it on fire, with 20 points in his final 11 games. Knies has heavier feet, but a very mature build and at his best, can take over the game. He will join Broz with the Golden Gophers next year.

Knies and Broz are not the only intriguing draft eligible players in this series. In fact, Fargo blueliner Jack Peart has a very good chance to be the highest drafted player in this series. The St. Cloud State commit split his season between Fargo and Grand Rapids High School (Mn). He is a good skater with a very strong first few steps, who plays with preternatural poise. He controls the puck like a much older player and plays a strong 200-foot game. Had Peart spent the entire season in Fargo, the final standings may have looked very different. For Fargo, also keep an eye on Aaron Huglen, a Buffalo draft pick who returned from over a full year on the sidelines after around a third of this season was done and has played a skilled game ever since.

On Tri-City, Knies is joined by a pair of intriguing draft eligible players in Hunter Strand and Carter Mazur, the latter of whom is a second time eligible player. Strand is a USNTDP alum, whose late birthday prevented him from being drafted last year. The Alaska native is a great skater and plays a patient game with the puck. Mazur has more of an East-West style game, helped along by plus edges. He can play the pest role as well and retains utility off the puck. Strand and Mazur both outscored Knies this year, but Knies already had a big reputation through his big pre-draft year and his run to end the year keeps him top of mind.

Prediction: Fargo in three. A mild upset to be sure. The return of Peart helps Fargo just as much as the loss of top blueliner Guillaume Richard hurts Tri-City. Richard is currently representing Team Canada at the WU18s in Texas. Neither team has stellar goaltending, but Fargo’s Brennan Boynton should be able to roughly match Tri-City’s Todd Scott.

#2 Omaha Lancers vs #3 Sioux City Musketeers

Both Omaha and Sioux City put up 63 points in 53 games, but their paths to getting there could scarcely have been more different. Consider that Omaha’s goal differential was a mediocre +13, while Sioux City outscored their opponents on aggregate by 35 goals, with the league’s best – by far – defense.

The two teams are both led by high end goaltending, each starting one of the three drafted netminders in the league. For Sioux City, that man is the Swiss Akira Schmid, a New Jersey prospect, while Montreal draftee Jakob Dobes, from Czechia, mans the pipes for Omaha. Dobes was a true workhorse for the Lancers, playing in 47 of the team’s 53 games, while Schmid played roughly two-third of the time for Sioux City, as his back up was more reliable.

Schmid will need to be at his best in this series, however, as Omaha has one of the biggest offensive weapons in the league at their disposal in Ayrton Martino. Martino joined the club shortly after the calendar flipped into 2021 and took the league by storm, with the fifth best points-per-game ratio in the USHL (1.47). A great skater with a fantastic shot, Martino did not let his slight frame prevent him from dominating, and his playmaking game is just as strong as his finishing ability. If Sioux City can shut Martino down, the Lancers don’t have too many other weapons at their disposal as their secondary scoring is largely in the hands of USHL veterans like Ryan Lautenbach, Nolan Renwick and Zach Dubinsky. The Omaha roster is one of the oldest in the league.

Sioux City, on the other hand, has a few more weapons at its disposal. Detroit draft pick Chase Bradley and New Jersey pick Ethan Edwards were both in the team’s top four in scoring, while Buffalo pick Matteo Costantini showed well after joining the league mid-season. Although the Musketeers don’t have a draft eligible player the likes of Martino, don’t sleep on defenseman Shai Buium. A USHL rookie out of the Shattuck-St. Mary’s program, he combines quick hands with smooth, if not quick, feet. He plays a strong two-way game and if he were a better skater (he isn’t bad, but he isn’t great), we would be hearing more people call for him as a first round type of talent. As is, he has enough raw skill to dream on a big, late-blooming future. I am also keeping an eye on redraft candidates defenseman Daniel Laatsch and center Justin Hryckowian. Laatsch is a USNTDP alum who has great size and some burgeoning skill, but is still raw, while Hryckowian has a fun skill game, but an injury-filled history and a sub-optimal build.

Prediction: Sioux City’s depth overcomes Martino’s solo skill in three games.

Western Conference Final Prediction: Sioux City over Fargo in three games. Sioux City is just too difficult to score against and has enough offensive weapons to get the job done.

Eastern Conference

Matthew Coronato. Photo by Dan Hickling, Hickling Images

#1 Chicago Steel vs #4 Dubuque Fighting Saints

By all accounts, this should be a washout. Chicago is, by great lengths, the top team in the USHL. They enter the postseason on an eight-game undefeated streak, and won 38 of 54 games this year, often by wide margins. Their goaltending has been shoddy at times, but far more often than not, they were able to outscore their troubles and their total of 265 goals scored was 24 more than the runners-up. Dubuque, on the other hand, won only 24 of 51 games, securing the final playoff spot in the east thanks to a win in their final game coupled with a loss from the U17 USNTDP squad.

If Dubuque is to have a hope in this series, look to their defensive players. Goalie Lukas Parik, a Los Angeles draft pick, struggled since joining the team, in late-January from the Czech second division, but shut out Green Bay in his final game, reminding us of what he is capable. On the blueline, fellow LA pick Braden Doyle teams up with Anaheim draft pick Henry Thrun to give the Fighting Saints a pair of weapons. Up front, Dubuque has a balanced attack, but the man to watch is Robert Cronin. While too old to be drafted this year Cronin is a late bloomer with speed and skill who will be a good follow next year once he joins the University of New Hampshire. The boy to watch, on the other hand, is Matthew Savoie. The 17-year-old is a 2022 draft eligible, who should have been playing in the WHL, but the uncertainty in that league led him to Dubuque, where he immediately played a central, and at time dominating, role. He’s going to be really fun to watch next year.

Looking at draft eligibles for this summer, keep your eyes on Connor Kurth and Andrei Buyalsky. Buylasky is actually the same age (born three days later) as Cronin, but as he is considered a foreign player (this is his first season in North America), the Kazakhstani forward is draft eligible while the American Cronin is not. Buyalsky is an impressive skater with impressive finishing ability. Kurth, on the other hand, has no particular big attributes to his game, but he finds a way to put up good numbers. He has a very stocky build but moves well enough regardless.

Moving on to Chicago, almost every skater on the roster is worthy of mention. Start with Montreal draft pick Sean Farrell, a USNTDP alum who would have been with Harvard this season had the Crimson actually played. Instead, he put up a breathtaking 101-point season for the Steel. His playmaking ability is simply unfair to most opponents on most nights. Then there is Matthew Coronato, a likely first round pick, who scored 48 goals in 51 games. Sure, it helps to have Farrell playing on your team, but the two actually rarely played together at even strength. Coronato is an offensive dynamo, who is content to cycle on his own for multiple full loops of the offensive end before he sees a seam to exploit.

Then there is Jack Bar, a late add to the roster from the BCHL. After a brief period acclimating to the league, he began to dominate. The defenseman likes to get deep into the offensive zone but is also a physical and committed defender. He has some first round upside. Of course, I also have to mention Mackie Samoskevich, who at one time was seen as a better draft prospect than Coronato. Samoskevich struggled somewhat after a midseason injury but is another gifted playmaker and a fantastic skater to boot.

I don’t want to get into the weeds too much, but I also expect Josh Doan (son of Shane), Ryan Ufko, and Jackson Blake to be drafted this summer, and Jack Harvey being drafted wouldn’t surprise me either. Anaheim draft pick Ian Moore has been impressive in his first season in the USHL, and 2023(!!) eligible forward Adam Fantilli is a burgeoning superstar. As good as everyone else already mentioned on this roster is, Fantilli’s upside is the highest. I am talking top three in the draft upside.

Prediction: Chicago in two, barring a complete breakdown in net. Chicago in three if the goalies stumble.

#2 Muskegon Lumberjacks vs #3 Green Bay Gamblers

A testament to how tight the West is, the Muskegon-Green Bay series is the second most lopsided duel after Chicago-Dubuque, with .040 percentage points separating the Lumberjacks and the Gamblers. Muskegon plays an up-tempo, high-event game with red lights going off at both ends. Green Bay is best when they keep goals to a minimum, and actually ended the season with the fewest goals allowed in the conference.

Green Bay’s chances are led by a pair of Boston Bruins’ draft picks in defender Mason Lohrei and center Jake Schmaltz. The latter is a two-way forward, who after three seasons in the USHL, has figured out how to be a factor offensively. He does a lot of little things well but lacks any dynamic elements. Lohrei was a surprise second rounder last season but has grown his game even more this year. He is big, skates very well, has a big point shot and plays a tough game at all ends. The Gamblers will go as far as he can take them. Vancouver draft pick Jackson Kunz and Vegas pick Jackson Hallum are also on the roster, and while both have shown the ability to provide secondary offense, neither can make things happen on their own. 2022 eligible Ryan Greene is an interesting player, but if there is a wild card in Green Bay, it is Camden Thiesing. The Tennessee native combines skill with grit, finishing third in the league in PIMs. He will work to make things happen on his own, and when he stays out of the penalty box, he is dangerous.

Led by San Jose draft pick Danil Gushchin, Muskegon is incredibly entertaining. Gushchin is a dynamo, who is not the most consistent player, but when he is involved and engaged, is one of the top handful of forwards in the league. He is joined by a deep roster of talented players, a few of whom should be drafted this summer, many of those in their second year of eligibility. The best of that secondary bunch is center Cameron Berg. Berg finished last year hot after a slow start and didn’t miss a beat coming into this year. He has a high-end wrist shot and knows how to create space for himself to rip one off. Winger Quinn Hutson is another second-year eligible forward who made waves this year. The type of player to get to the right spot at the right time, he knows how to finish what his linemates create. On the blueline, there are a trio to watch. The offensive blueline is Jacob Guevin, a power play specialist, whose production overshadows his average tools. Alex Gagne and Hank Kempf are bigger, more physical blueliners who make life difficult for attacking forwards. I could see all three drafted this summer.

Prediction: Muskegon in three games.

Eastern Conference Final prediction: Chicago in three games over Muskegon. This would be an immensely entertaining series.

Clark Cup Final Prediction: Chicago over Sioux City in three games. It’s really hard to bet against the Steel this year.