Easton Cowan – McKeen's Hockey

McKeen’s 2025-26 Hockey Pool Yearbook Feature – Fantasy Prospect Rankings

Peter Harling — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 19:47:09 +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)

When preparing for a fantasy draft or evaluating prospects for a trade in your fantasy league you need to understand the difference between rankings, and fantasy rankings. The difference can be subtle, or significant depending on your leagues scoring and format. Generally speaking, fantasy rankings are based on projected point production. I have found that the vast majority of readers who read and follow my work are in dynasty keeper leagues with peripheral stats, or bangers leagues. The following rankings are based on projected point production and include added value to players who can contribute other stats, such as hits, blocks, PIMs, and faceoff wins. In fantasy hockey, we have a limited number of prospect roster spots and as such I put higher value on prospects who have a quicker ETA to the NHL or have superstar upside. This will help you identify the top 30 forwards, 20 defencemen and ten goalies to target in your fantasy leagues. To be considered a prospect skaters must be under 26-years-old as of September 15th, 2024, and have played in under 60 career games, or less than 35 in a single season. For goalies, less than 30 career games played, or 15 in a single season.

Forwards

1 - Ivan Demidov, RW – Montreal Canadiens

Demidov made his NHL debut with much anticipation and expectations, and he did not disappoint with a two-point showing in his first game. There is a lot of hype surrounding Demidov and if he lives up to the potential, he could very well go down as one of the all-time scoring leaders in Montreal and flirt with 1,000 career points, joining the ranks of legends like Guy Lafleur, Jean Beliveau, and Henri Richard.

2 - Ryan Leonard, C – Washington Capitals

The big man on campus was the Hockey East Player of the Year and scoring champion with 49 points in 37 games at Boston College. He also captained Team USA to a WJC Gold Medal and then made his NHL debut in Washington scoring his first career goal. Leonard will be an NHL regular starting in the 2025-26 season and should be a Calder contender in his rookie season. His value in multi-category leagues is even higher.

3 - Isaac Howard, LW – Edmonton Oilers

Hot off a Hoby Baker Award winning season as a senior with Michigan State, Howard and the Lightning were at a contract impasse. Rather than lose him as an unrestricted free agent this summer, the Lightning traded him to the Oilers. Howard should see an opportunity to crack the Oilers roster in a top six role given their lack of prospect depth. His new ELC will fit in the Oilers budget and playing with either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl could push Howard into the forefront of the Calder race.

4 - Beckett Sennecke, RW – Anaheim Ducks

A late season surge pushed Sennecke up the draft ranking all the way to third overall in his draft season. He has carried that momentum into hi D+1 season scoring 86 points in 56 games for the Generals. Don’t make the same mistake Team Canada made by erroneously omitting him from the 2025 WJC roster, Sennecke is a play driving forward with tremendous hockey sense and skill as well as size at 6-foot-4. Sennecke has another year of junior eligibility but could make the Ducks roster as soon as this season.

5 - Michael Misa, C – San Jose Sharks

Drafted second overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Misa has been the first overall selection in all my fantasy drafts and mock drafts. Misa has been a highly anticipated fantasy prospect since becoming the latest OHL exceptional status recipient. He has a Memorial Cup Championship on his resume, is coming off a 134-point campaign and will spend his D+1 season developing in the NCAA against bigger, stronger, faster competition that will only make him more NHL ready for his ETA of 2026-27.

6 - Jimmy Snuggerud, RW – St. Louis Blues

After posting 51-points as captain of the Minnesota Golden Gophers and a finalist for the Hoby Baker, Snuggerud made a splash in the NHL with the Blues. Playing in the Blues final seven regular season games, he notched four points and then duplicated that performance in the playoffs. Snuggerud looks to be a lock for a top six role with the Blues and could be a solid Calder sleeper candidate if his early chemistry with Robert Thomas continues.

7 - Gabe Perreault, LW – New York Rangers

A lot of super-star players have come from the USNTDP, but Perreault holds the single season point record with 132 points in the 2022-23 season. Perreault just completed his sophomore season at Boston College and posted 16 goals and 32 assists in 37 games with the Eagles. He also was a key player in the USA WJC Gold Medal with 10 points in seven games. Perreault is a dynamic playmaker that also has a nose for the net and can finish. He played in five NHL games to close the season and while not a lock to make the Rangers out of training camp, he is their top prospect and a fantasy must own.

8 - Berkley Catton, C – Seattle Kraken

Catton was the 2024 draft class leading scorer with his 115-points, which puts him in the company of an elite group of players the likes of Sidney Crosby, Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard to post such lofty production in their draft year. I am not suggesting that Catton has that kind of NHL and fantasy value, but he is the Krakens most dynamically gifted offensive player and has tremendous upside.

9 - Ilya Protas, LW – Washington Capitals

When the Capitals drafted Alexei Protas’ younger brother in the third round, it might have appeared to be a pick motivated by nepotism. Then Ilya moved from the USHL to the OHL with the Windsor Spitfires and had a breakout season to the tune of 50 goals, and 124 points (second in OHL scoring) and now looks like a steal of a third-round pick. Since he was drafted from the USHL, he can move up to the AHL for the coming season and further his development. Look for the Protas brothers to be a force in the Nations capital for the foreseeable future.

10 - Tij Iginla, LW – Utah Mammoth

The first pick in Utah’s franchise history, Iginla was on pace for a stellar D+1 season with 14 goals and 31 points in 21 games with Kelowna before a hip injury ended his season early. After surgery, the expectation is that he will return to Kelowna for an important season of development in the WHL, and with Canada at the WJC before he joins the NHL. Tij was drafted higher than his father, Hall-Of-Famer and Calgary legend Jarome Iginla, can Tij match his old mans career status?

11 - Porter Martone, RW – Philadelphia Flyers

Two things stand out with Martone: his dynamic offensive game and his size. However, for all you banger leaguers reading, don’t be fooled to think he is going to rack up hits and PIM’s as that is not really his game. He is a finesse playmaking winger. Martone has committed to take his development to Michigan State in the NCAA for his D+1 season in hopes that playing against older, stronger and better competition will make him NHL ready for the 2026-27 season.

12 - James Hagens, C – Boston Bruins

The consensus number one ranked prospect heading into the 2025 draft was Hagens. He played his draft year in the NCAA with Boston College and despite posting solid numbers as a freshman, he was unable to keep pace with Macklin Celebrinis’ pace from the previous season, and he fell on draft day to the Bruins. It is quite possible that Hagens ends up being the best fantasy prospect from his draft class, but he will return for at least one more year in the NCAA. Look for a spike in his production and for him to challenge for a Hoby Baker nomination.

13 - Cayden Lindstrom, C – Columbus Blue Jackets

Lindstrom is a unicorn as a 6-foot-4, 214-pound center that scored 46 goals and 46 points in 32 games with Medicine Hat in his draft year. He combines skill, skating, smarts, and size in such a rare and dominant package. A well documented herniated disc back injury that ended his draft season after 32 games and all but eliminated his D+1 season minus a few playoff, and Memorial Cup games is the other side of his story. Lindstrom will play the coming season in the NCAA with Michigan State where he will try to regain his health, conditioning and further his development. If he can realize his massive potential, he has franchise upside and would be a dominant player in multi-category leagues. Or, he could have a set back from his back injury and follow Nolan Patrick’s career path. High risk, but high reward potential.

14 - Arseni Gritsyuk, RW – New Jersey Devils

Gritsyuk may be a sleeper prospect, but don’t sleep on the Russian sniper. He is coming in hot from the KHL where he posted 17 goals and 44-points in 49 games. While he was only a fifth-round pick from the 2019, the now 24-year-old is NHL ready and will step into a top six role in New Jersey. He may not have the same offensive upside as some of the players in the range of his ranking but given his advanced development the wait time is zero, which moves the needle.

15 - Dalibor Dvorsky, C – St. Louis Blues

The AHL can be a meatgrinder that chews up and spits out teenage hockey prospects. Despite that, Dvorsky played last year as a 19-year-old and posted 21 goals and 45 points in 61 games with Springfield and was second in league rookie scoring. Dvorsky also shone at the WJC last year with Slovakia, scoring nine points in just five games. His play earned him an NHL cup of coffee, two games but he failed to record any points playing limited minutes. Dvorsky still needs more AHL development, but his promising development suggests the 10^th overall pick from the 2023 draft is well on his way to becoming an NHL regular and a fantasy must own player.

16 - Jonathan Lekkerimaki, RW – Vancouver Canucks

His first full season in North America was a success as the Canucks 2022 15^th overall pick split time between the NHL and Abbotsford in the AHL. In the AHL he posted 28 points in 36 games and another seven in 16 playoff games en route to a Calder Cup Championship. In his 24 NHL games the Swedish winger posted six points while averaging 12:30 of ice time. Expect him to be a full time NHL player this year and to see elevated minutes, leading to numbers similar to what he produced in the AHL.

17 - Brad Nadeau, RW – Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes must feel like the drafted a top ten player with their 30^th overall pick from 2023. As a freshman in his D+1 season at University of Maine, Nadeau posted 19 goals and 46 points in 37 games. He followed up that with an impressive rookie season in the AHL to the tune of 32 goals and 58 points in 64 games with the Chicago Wolves. His underwhelming production at the WJC with Canada was curious, but the entire team underwhelmed. Nadeau made his NHL debut on April 16^th and earned his first career point against Montreal. Look for his sophomore season to see more NHL opportunities as he plays his way into a top six role with the Canes.

18 - Anton Frondell, C – Chicago Blackhawks

Drafted third overall by the Hawks in 2025, the Swedish center brings size at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, a high-level hockey sense, and skill level to his game. He would be better slotted as a second line center at the NHL level as his two-way game is more his calling card as opposed to a go-to offensive driver. The 18-year-old will likely play two more seasons in the SHL before crossing over to North America, meaning a little more wait time and a limited offensive ceiling compared to his draft status.

19 - Danila Yurov, RW – Minnesota Wild

The 21-year-old Russian saw his production dip from 0.79 to 0.54 points per game in the final year of his KHL contract. Despite the disappointing production, with 209 career KHL games of development he has signed with the Wild and will play in North America to the delight of fantasy managers who roster Yurov. With Yakov Trenin, Vlad Tarasenko, and Kirill Kaprizov providing some fellow Russian support, he should adjust quickly and could play his way into a top six role sooner than later.

20 - Caleb Desnoyers, C – Utah Mammoth

Desnoyers could be the most underrated player in the 2025 draft, which says a lot sine he was selected fourth overall. A 6-foot-2 center Desnoyers has excellent hockey sense, size, skating, skill and compete. He has played a key role and produced all season starting with a point per game to lead Canada to Gold at the Hlinka. He was the first line center for Team CHL at the Prospects Challenge and was a point per game again. With his club team in Moncton, he posted 84-points in 56 games and lead the Wildcats in playoff scoring with 30-points in 19 games to be named playoff MVP, and a league championship. He is the best two-way player, and that takes nothing away from his offensive game.

21 - Rutger McGroarty, C – Pittsburgh Penguins

After being acquired from the Jets for Brayden Yager, McGroarty made his pro debut and impressed, splitting time between the NHL and AHL. In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton he played 60 games, notching 14 goals and 39 points. While he only played in eight NHL games, he impressed with three points, playing a physical game as well showing he can have an impact away from the puck. With the Pens looking to rebuild, he is a corner stone player going forward, starting now.

22 - Quentin Musty, RW – San Jose Sharks

Musty had a frustrating season. It began by holding out for a trade from Sudbury in the OHL. A deal never happened so he resumed playing and scored 59 points in 33 games before an injury put him on the shelf until the playoffs. He returned for game two but despite four points, the Wolves were swept in four by Kingston. He will turn pro now and play his rookie season in the AHL. The 6-foot-2 winger has size and played a power game at the OHL; he could be an impactful top six winger with his size and shot.

23 - Calum Ritchie, C – New York Islanders

When the Islanders acquired Ritchie at the NHL trade deadline, he instantly became their top prospect. Ritchie started the season in the NHL with the Avalanche where he played seven games and scored his first career goal with his signature shootout move (a spectacular deke as he fakes the shoot like he fanned then quickly backhands it home). He returned to the Oshawa Generals where he dominated with 70 points and 50 PIM in 47 games and led the Generals back to a league championship rematch vs London. Ritchie should be a regular on Long Island this fall.

24 - Matthew Savoie, RW – Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers added Savoie in a trade with Buffalo, and he instantly became the Oilers top prospect. Savoie is an undersized forward at 5-foot-9, 179 pounds but he is also a prolific offensive player. He posted some hefty point totals in the WHL and in his first full pro season, he scored 19 goals and 54 points in 66 games in Bakersfield. He made his debut in Edmonton as well, playing in four games and recorded his first career point. He has the skill to play and produce in the NHL, but size is a concern.

25 - Igor Chernyshov, LW – San Jose Sharks

The big Russian winger made the move to North America after the Sharks selected him with the first pick of round two in the 2024 NHL Draft. His debut was delayed following an off-season shoulder surgery, but when he resumed playing with Saginaw in the OHL he dominated with 19 goals and 55 points in just 23 games. Saginaw was eliminated in the first round, and he was called up to play two AHL games with the Barracuda. It is expected he will play the coming season in the AHL, to further his development, but he has NHL top six winger upside with his size, skating and shooting ability.

26 - Easton Cowan, C – Toronto Maple Leafs

The Leaf's top prospect is poised to bring his game to the NHL for the coming season. In his final year in the OHL with the London Knights, Cowan led the OHL in playoff scoring (39-points in 17 games), added a second straight league championship, and led the Memorial Cup in soring to lead the Knights to victory. He is slightly undersized at 5-foot-11, 185 pounds but he plays a physical game to complement his dynamic skill and vision.

27 - Andrew Cristall, LW – Washington Capitals

A true boom-or-bust player. Cristall is as dynamic an offensive player as you will find. His career WHL point production is off the chart with 412 points in 248 games (1.66 points per game). He finished his WHL career with Spokane in the playoffs where he scored 21 goals and 41 points in 19 games. How could such a dominant player be a bust? He is just 5-foot-10 and 183 pounds as the NHL trends towards size again. Also, his defensive game and compete level is a liability. These factors kept him off the Canada WJC roster. If he plays in the NHL, he will be great, but there have been plenty of prolific junior scorers that never made the NHL.

28 - Cole Eiserman, RW – New York Islanders

“Goal” Eiserman is a polarizing player. His offensive upside is significant. He is the all-time NTDP goal scoring leader, was a key player for USA winning Gold at the 2025 WJC with seven points. As a freshman at Boston University, he scored 25 goals and 36 points in 39 games. His play away from the puck is where scouts have concerns with his game. Eiserman will return for his sophomore season with the Terriers where he will continue to score goals, and more importantly develop his overall game.

29 - Jake O’Brien, C – Seattle Kraken

Perhaps the player from the 2025 draft class with the most upside is O’Brien. The 6-foot-2 center has tremendous vision and hockey sense, a late June birthday means he has plenty of development road head where his potential can grow. While his physical game is lacking as his slender 176-pound frame needs to fill out, there are very few flaws in his game overall.

30 - Liam Ohgren, LW – Minnesota Wild

Ohgren made his North American debut last season and had a tremendously successful rookie season in the AHL scoring 37 points in 41 games on a poor Iowa Wild team. His play earned him an NHL audition of 24 games, but he was limited to an average of 11:06 in ice time and only managed five points. Ohgren should be ready for a bigger role in Minnesota, and his point production should increase with more playing time.

Defence

1 - Zayne Parekh, RD – Calgary Flames

Parekh dominated the OHL in his draft year and then returned for his D+1 season and posted 33 goals, 107 points and 96 PIM. He was an egregious omission from the Team Canada WJC roster and made his NHL debut on April 17^th scoring his first career NHL goal in a 5-1 win over LA. Parekh is still junior eligible as a 19-year-old but is almost assured to be a full time NHL player this season. It should not take long for him to secure a top four pairing and first power play role in Calgary. Parekh could have a similar rookie season as Lane Hutson had and be a Calder candidate.

2 - Cole Hutson, LD - Washington Capitals

Hutson 2.0 is a similar player to his older brother Lane. Cole is developing in the NCAA at Boston University and posted 48 points in 39 games in his freshman season. His real breakout however was on the World stage with USA at the WJC where he led the tournament in scoring with 11 points in seven games. Cole has another season with the Terriers coming up before he is ready to join the Capitals in the NHL. When he arrives, it is not out of the question for him to have the same impact Lane Hutson had, or even better.

3 - Matthew Schaefer, LD – New York Islanders

The top pick from the 2025 Draft class has signed with the Islanders, and all signs point towards him making the Islanders out of training camp and becoming an NHL rookie. A shoulder injury limited him to just 17 games in Erie last season, so a return to the OHL would not be the worst scenario for his long-term development.

4 - Zeev Buium, LD – Minnesota Wild

All Buium does is win. At 19-years-old his trophy case already includes a World Championship, an NCAA Championship, two WJC Golds and a U-18 Gold. Buium made his NHL debut in the playoffs and recorded his first career point playing in four games. Buium is not only a lock to make the Wild roster, but he should also be a top pairing impact player right out of the gate.

5 - Alexander Nikishin, LD – Carolina Hurricanes

The 23-year-old Russian blueliner has been one of the most anticipated players to come from the KHL for several years. The 6-foot-4, 216-pound defender captained SKA St. Petersburg for two seasons and posted career KHL stats of 54 goals and 177 points in 288 games. He has signed in Carolina and made his NHL debut in the playoffs, earning his first career point in four games. He will have to compete with Shane Gostisbehere and K’Andre Miller for top power play deployment but count on Nikishin playing big minutes in his rookie season.

6 - Artyom Levshunov, RD – Chicago Blackhawks

The 2024 second overall pick only played 18 NHL games in his rookie season, but as a 19-year-old he produced 22 points in 52 AHL games with Rockford. Can he breakout as the Hawks top pairing and first power play quarterback in his sophomore season? He will have to outplay Sam Rinzel and Kevin Korchinski to do so, but it is a real possibility as soon as this fall.

7 - Luca Cagnoni, LD – San Jose Sharks

All Cagnoni is missing to be ranked higher is size and draft pedigree. At 5-foot-9 he comes up short by todays NHL standards, and as a fourth-round pick, he lacks the golden ticket first round picks get. However, his on-ice production speaks volumes, scoring 16 goals and 52 points in 64 games as a AHL rookie with the Barracuda. Cagnoni is the future first power play quarterback in San Jose on a unit that will include Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith and Michael Misa. Cagnoni could be a fantasy beast!

8 - Sam Dickinson, LD – San Jose Sharks

Where will Dickinson play in the 2025-26 season? He posted 91 points in 55 games, won a second consecutive OHL Championship and a Memorial Cup Championship. He has another year of junior eligibility remaining, so the AHL is not an option, but has signed an NHL contract so the NCAA is not an option either. He has nothing left to learn in the OHL, so he looks ready to make the jump to the NHL.

9 - Axel Sandin-Pellikka, RD – Detroit Red Wings

ASP is a rising star and the Wings top prospect. The 5-foot-11 right shot defender has tremendous poise on the ice, sees the ice very well, carries the puck and dictates the play with authority. After a solid SHL career of 52 points in 107 games including an SHL Championship, he made his debut in the AHL to close the season. A full year of AHL development is to be expected under GM Steve Yzerman, but a future blueline anchored by Mo Seider, Simon Edvinsson and ASP sets up the Red Wings for a decade.

10 - Tristan Luneau, RD – Anaheim Ducks

After injury limited Luneau to just 13 combined AHL and NHL games in his rookie season, he returned in 2024-25 to post near point per game production with the Gulls with 52 points in 59 games. The 6-foot-1 right shot offensive defenceman has great upside, but he also has his work cut out for him to crack the Ducks top four with competition the likes of Jacob Trouba, Jackson Lacombe, Olen Zellweger, and Pavel Mintyukov.

11 - Carter Yakemchuk, RD – Ottawa Senators

There were a lot of skeptics when Ottawa selected the 6-foot-4 right shot offensive defenceman at seven ahead of Zayne Parekh, Zeev Buium and Sam Dickinson at the ’24 Draft. A lot of those critics were silenced when Yakemchuk nearly made the Sens roster after a tremendous preseason performance. He was returned to the WHL for his senior year and was slightly underwhelming seeing his point totals dip and failing to be make the Canadian WJC roster. His pro career will begin, likely in Belleville for a season before assuming the top pairing role on the right side in Ottawa next to Jake Sanderson.

12 - Sam Rinzel, RD – Chicago Blackhawks

Rinzel had a breakout season in 2024-25. It was not just his 10-goal, 32-point performance as a sophomore at University of Minnesota, but his nine game NHL audition in which he averaged over 23 minutes of ice time including an average of 2:24 powerplay time on ice where he delivered five points. The 21-year-old is the early favorite to be the first power play quarterback heading into the upcoming season. Don’t sleep on Rinzel, he has some big upside.

13 - Seamus Casey, RD – New Jersey Devils

The 5-foot-10 right shot offensive defenceman had a strong rookie season starting in the NHL with an eight-game run with the Devils where he posted three goals before an AHL assignment. Overall, he racked up 18 points in 30 AHL games and finished the season back in the NHL with New Jersey. With Dougie Hamilton, Luke Hughes, and Simon Nemic in the fold, getting ice time, let alone power play time will be difficult barring injury.

14 - Scott Morrow, RD – New York Rangers

Acquired from Carolina along with a first and second round pick in the K’Andre Miller trade, Morrow could fill the gap from Miller out of camp behind Adam Fox on the Rangers second pairing. Morrow had a strong rookie season the year prior posting 39 points in 52 games with the Chicago Wolves and had a 14-game NHL run with the Hurricanes scoring six points.

15 - Logan Mailloux, RD – St. Louis Blues

Acquired from Montreal for Zac Bolduc this summer, Mailloux is now the top defensive prospect in the Blues system. Mailloux is NHL ready after a second AHL campaign with 80 points and 165 PIM in 135 career games, and five points in eight career NHL games. Mailloux will no longer be considered a prospect as he will make the Blues roster full time, and battle Justin Faulk and Cam Fowler for top power play deployment.

16 - David Reinbacher, RD – Montreal Canadiens

The 6-foot-2 Austrian defender made a splash in his AHL debut in 2023-24 when he posted five points in the final 11 games in Laval. Injuries kept him out of action until he returned for the Olympics with Austria and finished the season again in the AHL with Laval. His six points in 13 playoff games with the Rocket are promising but a nearly full season lost to injury suggest he may need a time in the AHL before he is ready for Montreal. The departure of Logan Mailloux improves his stature in Montreal.

17 - Oliver Bonk, RD – Philadelphia Flyers

Widely considered to be a shutdown defender, a red flag in fantasy, Bonk has considerable fantasy value. At 6-foot-2 he has decent size and can play a physical role and contribute hits and blocks. But he has also contributed significant offensive numbers with 150 career regular season points in 189 games with the London Knights. Bonk was deployed as the net front presence on the power play regularly with London and was tried as the first powerplay quarterback for Canada at the WJC. His pro career will begin with a season in the AHL with Lehigh Valley before he becomes a top four NHL regular.

18 - Tanner Molendyk, LD – Nashville Predators

Nashville has a strong track record of drafting and developing top quality NHL defencemen. Tanner Molendyk is the latest and he nearly made the Predators out of training camp last year before returning for his final year in the WHL. He was a point per game player with Saskatoon and Medicine Hat and at the Memorial Cup. Molendyk will be an AHL rookie this season, but it likely won’t be long before he is patrolling the Predators blueline in a top four capacity.

19 - Hunter Brzustewicz, RD – Calgary Flames

His fantasy value took a big hit when the Flames drafted Zayne Parekh. Brzustewicz is an offensive defenceman that posted a 92-point season in the OHL, and in his AHL rookie campaign last year impressed with five goals and 32 points in 70 games with the Wranglers. Brzustewicz was a key piece in return from the Elias Lindholm trade so the Flames are invested, he has great offensive and fantasy upside, but the Parekh addition will take some of that critical power play ice time up.

20 - Tom Willander, RD – Vancouver Canucks

After two seasons in the shadow of a Hutson with the Boston University Terriers, Willander may be an underrated fantasy defenceman. With all the top offensive deployment at BU going to the Hutson’s, lane and Cole, Willander still managed to produce 49 points in 77 career games with the Terriers. His play with Sweden at the WJC was impressive as well with five points in seven games. Willander is a strong skating, puck moving two-way defender with offensive upside. Willander was signed by the Canucks and will start his professional career in the AHL with defending Calder Cup Champions Abbotsford.

Goalies

1 - Yaroslav Askarov – San Jose Sharks

The Sharks are building something special and Askarov should be a key piece of that puzzle. A top ranked goalie prospect for years, the move from Nashville and out from under Juuse Saros, gives Askarov has the opportunity to seize a starting role in San Jose. With the young core and foundations now in place, it’s just a short matter of time before this team becomes a powerhouse, and Askarov is a fantasy star.

2 - Jesper Wallstedt – Minnesota Wild

There is no sugar coating this, Wallstedt had a terrible season posting brutal numbers in both the AHL, and NHL in his third season in North America. Despite the setback, Wallstedt remains an elite goalie prospect and with the Wild building a defence that consist of Brock Faber, Zeev Buium, and David Jiricek the future still remains very bright.

3 - Jacob Fowler – Montreal Canadiens

It is difficult to understand how Fowler was not the top goalie selected in his draft year. Five other goalies went before he was selected 69^th overall in the third round of the 2023 NHL Draft. Since then, he has established himself as an elite prospect playing at Boston College in the NCAA. Fowler has won a WJC Gold Medal with USA, a Hockey East Championship, and was named the Goalie of the Year winning the Mike Richter Award. Fowler is trending to be the next great Montreal Canadiens goalie following the likes of Ken Dryden, Patrick, Roy and Carey Price.

4 - Ilya Nabokov – Colorado Avalanche

A late bloomer, Nabokov was drafted in 2024 by the Avalanche after a breakout season in the KHL as a 21-year-old, where Nabokov won a Gagarian Cup and playoff MVP. Nabokov has signed his ELC with Colorado but has been loaned back to play the 2025-26 season in the KHL to ensure he gets playing time. Expect him to finish the season in the AHL as the KHL season ends in March, allowing him a small sample of North American hockey before being full time in 2026-27.

5 - Sebastian Cossa – Detroit Red Wings

The Wings 2021 15^th overall draft pick has now played three full seasons of professional hockey with time in the ECHL, AHL, and he made his NHL debut in December with a 6-foot-5 shootout win over Buffalo. The past two seasons have been consistent and strong for Cossa, playing 40+ games in Grand Rapids and posting 20+ wins. The addition of John Gibson suggests that Detroit thinks he needs a little more development before he becomes their starting goalie.

6 - Drew Commesso – Chicago Blackhawks

On last years list I suggested Commesso was on track to develop into the Hawks starting goalie for the Connor Bedard glory years. Since then, the Hawks acquired Spencer Knight, and he appears to be the incumbent franchise goalie for the foreseeable future. Commesso had another impressive year of development in the AHL and is still quite capable of being an NHL starting goalie. Where and when are less certain now.

7 - Trey Augustine – Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings added insulation to their goaltending future when they selected Augustine 41^st overall in 2023. Since then, he has been developing with Michigan State U. in the NCAA with a career record of 42-16-6, two Big Ten Championships and two WJC Gold Medals with USA. Augustine will play his junior season with the Spartans and will also need some AHL development time. He is further away than Cossa, but his upside could be higher.

8 - Niklas Kokko – Seattle Kraken

Kokko made his North American debut last season, and it was a strong one posting a 20-10-2 record in the AHL with a 2.26 GAA and .913 SV%. His strong play earned him an NHL recall, and he had a rough start coming in to relieve Joey Daccord in a 7-2 loss to the Blues where he allowed two goals on six shots. With Grubauer and Daccord under contract for the next two seasons, the 21-year-old Finnish netminder can continue to develop in the AHL with Coachella. He is a prospect on the rise.

9 - Mikhail Yegorov – New Jersey Devils

The Devils selected the Russian goalie from the USHL with their second-round pick in 2024 and Yegorov started his D+1 season back in the USHL with Omaha. Committed to Boston University in the NCAA, the Terriers were having goaltending concerns and brought “Big Mike” in just in time for the Bean Pot Tournament where he was outstanding leading the Terriers to victory. Yegorov played in 18 games total with an 11-6-1 record and 2.15 GAA. Still only 19-years-old, the 6-foot-5 netminder is a long way from the NHL, but he is showing tremendous potential.

10 - Hampton Slukynsky – Los Angeles Kings

Perhaps Slukynsky is still a little under the radar and not quite a household name in less deep dynasty leagues, but that is about to change. Selected 118^th overall by the Kings, Slukynsky posted a 19-5-1 record as a freshman at Western Michigan and a sparkling 1.90 GAA. His trophy case includes USHL Goalie of the Year, Championships from the USHL, NCAA National and NCHC, and Gold Medals with USA from the U-18, WJC and World Championship. He is still just 20-years-old and needs a lot of development time before the NHL, but his stock is rising fast!

McKeen’s 2025-26 Calder Trophy Candidates

Brock Otten — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 17:15:15 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 15: Carolina defenseman Alexander Nikishin (21) waits for a face-off during his first NHL debut game during game five of the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs between the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on May 15, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

Ivan Demidov - RW - Montreal Canadiens

At this point, Demidov is the runaway favourite to capture this year’s Calder trophy. One of the top prospects in all of hockey is situated to have a huge offensive role for the Canadiens and obviously has the skill to put up points. The last time an NHL franchise had back-to-back Calder winners? 1967 and 1968 when Derek Sanderson and Bobby Orr captured rookie of the year for the Bruins.

Alexander Nikishin - D - Carolina Hurricanes

It must be nice when you’re a competitive team and you have a veteran pro defender that you can slot directly into your lineup as a potential impact player…on an ELC. Nikishin led all defensemen in scoring in the KHL two of the last three seasons and should get immediate ice time and responsibility in Carolina. The last time a defenseman has won the Calder trophy in back-to-back years? 1963 and 1964 when Kent Douglas and Jacques Laperrière won.

Ryan Leonard - RW - Washington Capitals

After signing late last year, Leonard jumped right into the Capitals lineup and played a role into the playoffs for Washington. The offensive production wasn’t significant; a single goal in 17 games including the playoffs. However, Leonard should be able to take on a larger role this year and it’s why the rugged, power winger is an early season Calder favourite.

Jimmy Snuggerud - RW - St. Louis Blues

Like Ryan Leonard, Snuggerud jumped right into St. Louis’ lineup from the NCAA at the end of the year. However, unlike Leonard, Snuggerud was an immediate offensive contributor. You could easily make the argument that he was one of St. Louis’ best players in the playoffs. He should carry that momentum into a prominent role with the Blues this year.

Zeev Buium - D - Minnesota Wild

Another high-profile NCAA player who jumped into the postseason lineup for his team after signing. Buium is likely to not only crack the Minnesota lineup this year but see powerplay time. He’s going to try to replicate what Lane Hutson did in Montreal last year and he has the talent to do it.

Sam Rinzel - D - Chicago Blackhawks

The most underrated Calder candidate heading into the season. Rinzel was exceptional for Chicago after signing late last season. He was seeing over 23 minutes per game, including over two on the powerplay and that led to some solid production. Don’t be surprised if that continues.

Zayne Parekh - D - Calgary Flames

While Parekh isn’t a lock to make the Calgary roster, there’s definitely an opening for him if he has a strong training camp. He’ll need to prove that he can defend at the NHL level, but if Calgary keeps him up, you know that they’ll give him powerplay time. We wrote similar things about Lane Hutson last year.

Maxim Shabanov - C - New York Islanders

Just how will Shabanov’s game translate to the NHL level? That’s the million-dollar question. We’ve seen some great success stories from KHL free agents in the last decade, but also others who don’t last the season. Shabanov will be given every opportunity to showcase his skill on a scoring line this year. What he does with that opportunity remains to be seen.

Michael Misa - C - San Jose Sharks

This is the part of the list where we hit the longer shots. The second overall pick in the 2025 draft is probably looking at a 50/50 chance to crack the Sharks roster full time. But, if he does, he’s going to be put in a scoring line role and have a chance to put up some great numbers.

Yaroslav Askarov - G - San Jose Sharks

Alexander Georgiev is gone, and Alex Nedeljkovic has been brought in to split time with the much-hyped Askarov. He’s plenty talented, but the question is…will the Sharks be good enough for his stat line to be impressive enough to win the Calder? It seems unlikely.

Sam Dickinson - D - San Jose Sharks

San Jose brought in some veteran defenders to help them reach the cap floor this year and that is going to make it more difficult for Dickinson to make the San Jose roster full time. He’s stuck between a rock and a hard place; too good for the OHL, but unable to play in the AHL.

Ville Koivunen - LW - Pittsburgh Penguins

There’s definitely an opening in Pittsburgh for a younger player to come into camp and capture a role on a scoring line. The best chance at that could be Koivunen, who had a tremendous AHL season last year. If he plays alongside Sidney Crosby, what type of numbers would we be looking at?

Matt Savoie - RW - Edmonton Oilers

What was said about Koivunen goes double for Savoie; there’s a chance that one of Edmonton’s young wingers could get the opportunity to play with either McDavid or Draisaitl. Savoie had a solid first pro year in the AHL and could be ready for such an opportunity.

Artyom Levshunov - D - Chicago Blackhawks

A year ago, it would have seemed crazy to have Rinzel ahead of Levshunov as a Calder candidate for the Hawks, but here we are. Levshunov’s offensive game wasn’t quite as dynamic as expected in his first pro season in the system, and while he should crack Chicago’s roster, it would appear that Rinzel is ahead of him on the depth chart for powerplay time.

Easton Cowan - RW -Toronto Maple Leafs

“Cowboy” Cowan is in a position to battle for a roster spot in Toronto this training camp after a great run with the London Knights. It seems unlikely that he’ll put up the kind of offensive numbers to earn Calder votes, but what happens if he gets slotted beside Matthews or Nylander?

Jani Nyman - RW - Seattle Kraken

A power winger with a big shot, Nyman was terrific in his first pro season in North America last year, even earning an extended look with the Kraken. Will Seattle continue to explore his chemistry with star young pivot Shane Wright?

Scott Morrow - D - New York Rangers

Recently acquired in the K’Andre Miller trade with Carolina, Morrow is a tremendous young offensive defender. He was excellent in his first pro season last year and should have a great chance of making the Rangers this year. While he’s unlikely to supplant Adam Fox from the top powerplay unit, he could earn time on the secondary unit.

Matthew Schaefer - D - New York Islanders

Given how much time Schaefer missed last year between a bout with mono and the broken collarbone, it seems a bit far-fetched to pencil him into an NHL lineup, which is obviously a rarity for recent first overall picks. However, Schaefer is a gamer so don’t count him out completely.

Isaac Howard - LW - Edmonton Oilers

Given his experience at the pro level, it would appear that Matt Savoie would have a leg up on Howard for a prominent roster spot. A new member of the Oilers, Howard needed some time to adjust to the NCAA level and odds are he’ll need time to adjust to the pro level too. But, if he does crack the roster, he too has a chance to play alongside one of the big guns.

Rutger McGroarty - LW - Pittsburgh Penguins

It does seem likely that one of Koivunen or McGroarty cracks the Pens opening night lineup. However, we see Koivunen as more likely to put up the points necessary to be a Calder candidate at this point. But, as mentioned with Koivunen, if McGroarty can manage to earn time with Sid the Kid, he could put up some good numbers.

Gabe Perreault - LW - New York Rangers

After a standout two year run at Boston College, Perreault has turned pro and will set his sights on making the Rangers’ opening night roster. There’s an opening or two there, but Perreault will need to prove that his conditioning is up to NHL standards. The upside is obviously high.

Alex Bump - LW - Philadelphia Flyers

A fifth-round pick in 2022 out of high school, few prospects have improved as much as Bump has in recent years. An NCAA champion with Western Michigan this past year, Bump is now turning pro, and he could be a darkhorse candidate to not only earn an immediate NHL roster spot but be a solid contributor for the Flyers too.

Brad Nadeau - LW - Carolina Hurricanes

Based on pedigree, Nadeau should absolutely be higher on this list. He was one of the best players in the AHL in the second half of last year and looks NHL ready. The problem is that Carolina brought in Nik Ehlers this offseason to fill out an already deep forward group, and that likely leaves Nadeau on the outside looking in, barring an injury.

Logan Mailloux - D - St. Louis Blues

Recently acquired from the Canadiens for Zach Bolduc, Mailloux has a good chance of making the Blues in a third pairing role. Given that his ice time is likely to be pretty sheltered initially, it seems far-fetched to assume that he can be a true Calder candidate.

Danila Yurov - RW - Minnesota Wild

After a bit of a down year in the KHL, the former first round selection is finally crossing the pond this year and he has the inside track on a bottom six role with the Wild. Much like Marat Khusnutdinov last year (before the trade), it seems unlikely Yurov plays enough to put up the kind of points necessary to be a Calder candidate.

Beckett Sennecke - RW - Anaheim Ducks

It seems fitting to put a massive wildcard at number 26. Sennecke, the former third overall pick, seems blocked currently thanks to Anaheim’s forward depth. However, what happens with Mason McTavish? Or what happens if Sennecke puts on a show in training camp? He’s the kind of prospect you make room for. Odds are that he ends up back in the OHL for another season, but stranger things have happened.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #27

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 18:05:59 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 27th (May 2025 - 29th)
GM: Brad Treliving Hired: May 2023
COACH: Craig Berube Hired: May 2024

The biggest storyline in Toronto this year was defined by a departure rather than an arrival. In a blockbuster “sign-and-trade” deal, star forward Mitch Marner was shipped to Vegas for Nicolas Roy. While the move doesn’t necessarily bolster their pipeline, it marks the end of an era and an obvious pivot away from a direction they have been following for years.

That approach was reinforced when Toronto dealt one of its few premium prospects, Fraser Minten, along with 2026 and 2027 first-round picks, to Boston and Philadelphia in exchange for veteran defenseman Brandon Carlo and forward Scott Laughton. The transaction provided immediate roster support, but it left their already-thin pipeline in an even rougher state.

Easton Cowan now carries the weight of being the organization’s lone “must-hit” prospect. The 20-year-old capped off his OHL career in London with 69 points in 46 games and is on the verge of turning pro. While his NHL impact may be a season or two away, Cowan remains the most promising piece in an otherwise shallow system.

On defense, Ben Danford has quietly emerged as a potential long-term contributor, coming off another strong campaign with Oshawa. His development will be key for a team that lacks young blue line talent.

The 2025 draft added six new players to the organization, though none cracked McKeen’s top 250. Simply put, the Leafs’ pipeline is one of the weakest in the league, and recent trades have further eroded its long-term potential. With so much of their future capital spent, Toronto is firmly betting that its current core can deliver before the bill for this aggressive approach comes due.

Toronto Maple Leafs Top-15 Prospects

1 - Easton Cowan

The 2024 Red Tlison winner in the OHL as the league’s most outstanding player was also the MVP of the playoffs as the Knights captured the title two seasons ago. It would have been hard for him to replicate or build off that success, even if he did help London capture another OHL title last year. Some Leafs fans seem to be down on Cowan after a decline in production and a poor performance at the World Juniors for Canada. However, he’s still a terrific young prospect and someone with a significant chance of becoming a quality middle six forward for the Leafs in the near future. He brings speed. He brings tenacity. He has an attacking mindset and is hungry for the puck in all three zones. Best of all, he’s a skilled one-on-one player who can, both, play through defenders or around them. The key for Cowan will be refining his approach to fit the pro game. He’ll have to cut down on his offensive zone turnovers and be more calculated with the puck. He’ll likely settle into more of a complementary role, and that can be an adjustment for former junior stars. Even if the Leafs could have some holes to fill next year in the bottom six, it could be wise for them to take a cautious approach and start Cowan in the AHL to allow him to build confidence and adjust.

2 - Ben Danford

Don’t be alarmed by the decline in offensive production from Danford this past year. With Luca Marrelli still in the fold, he wasn’t going to be asked to take on more offensive responsibility. That will be next year, when he has a shot to be the team’s top power play quarterback and true number one defender. For now, appreciate the defensive efficiency that Danford brings to the ice. He shuts down the transition game with his mobility and aggressiveness. He clears the net and wins 50/50 battles. He blocks shots extremely effectively. He has an active stick. He even emerged as one of the OHL’s elite body checkers this past year, really upping the ante physically. Danford’s projection still hasn’t changed much in a year; we’re still looking at a potential second pairing defensive anchor who can help neutralize the opponent’s best.

3 - Tyler Hopkins

“Hoppy” as he’s affectionately known by, is a versatile pivot with the Kingston Frontenacs of the OHL and a recent third-round selection of the Leafs. He’s a well-rounded player who does a lot of things well. He’s a strong skater. He competes away from the puck and is an effective forechecker. He can make plays in transition and will drive the net. After a breakout season with Kingston last year, Hopkins’ goal this year should be to hone into an identity. His versatility makes him a possible pro, but his jack-of-all-trades skill set does make his upside somewhat uncertain. What kind of pro will Hopkins be? How will his skill set translate? Added strength to his wiry frame should help him become a more consistent player and he will be leaned on more heavily by the Frontenacs this coming season, which will be great for his offensive development.

4 - Noah Chadwick

Over the past few seasons Chadwick has quietly developed into one of the best and most underrated defencemen in the entire WHL. The Hurricanes captain is a responsible, trustworthy player who brings an impressive amount of shift-to-shift consistency and efficiency in all three zones. There really isn't much that he couldn't do if asked, and that primarily stems from just how smart he is. To go so far as to say that he's one of the smartest prospects in all of junior hockey wouldn't even be an exaggeration, as evidenced by him winning the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year award in 2023-24. He's a major minute-eater at his current level of hockey and it's easy to see him eventually doing that in the NHL one day too. Finding prospects of this caliber late in the draft is a difficult task for scouts, so the Maple Leafs must be thrilled that they were able to bring in Chadwick using only a sixth-round pick.

5 - Luke Haymes

It’s been a long road to relevancy for Haymes, a former draft selection of the Soo Greyhounds. A year with Ridley College. A year in the BCHL. Three years with Dartmouth College, including an injury riddled one this past year. But, after signing with Toronto as a free agent, he’s firmly on the NHL radar. Haymes is a workhorse pivot who wins 50/50 battles down low, gets to the net, and is a strong finisher under pressure. He was excellent for the Marlies to end last season after turning pro, suggesting that he could actually be close to being ready for an NHL roster spot. Haymes’ upside is not likely significant. He projects as a bottom six player. But in a system that’s a little thin currently, Haymes’ mature game stands out. Expect him to play out this coming season with the Marlies before pushing for a depth role in 2026.

6 - Tinus Luc Koblar

The Leafs picking Koblar was a shock to many, but a savvy move to those in the know. Despite his lack of production at the J20 level, the young Slovenian-Norwegian forward has a ton of projectable tools that could make him a capable depth NHLer and has the IQ and compete to drive him forward in his development. Koblar is an intelligent, big bodied two-way center. He plays with a ton of skill and has exceptional timing on his passing plays. He’s great at using his frame to shield the puck from defensive pressure and he leverages his size in puck battles at an advanced level. He just seems to play the right way, as cliche as it sounds. Koblar is a raw prospect who will need a fair bit of seasoning before he’s ready to play in the NHL. He’s very lanky and needs to fill out a fair bit. Despite moving the puck well at the junior level, his quickness and acceleration will need improvement to be able to replicate that at higher levels. Next season, Koblar will most likely split time between Leksands U20 and Swedish pro hockey, be it the SHL or a loan to the HockeyAllsvenskan.

7 - William Villeneuve

After William Villeneuve matched both his points and games played totals in his first two AHL seasons, he took a big step forward this past season. William isn’t exactly agile on his feet, something exposed in his rush defence, but grace doesn’t matter as much when you're a top 15 scoring defenceman in the AHL. That said, Villeneuve will need to make big strides in his skating before getting a real NHL look, as the pace of play would likely overwhelm the Sherbrooke native in his current form. He’s someone to keep tabs on over the next couple of seasons, but odds are he settles in as an AHL regular and steady top four presence on the Marlies’ blueline. This is a contract year for William; he must put up another productive season and show he can do more than score. Adding a layer of bite to his defensive game could be what he needs to start getting some NHL looks when opportunities arise.

8 - Jacob Quillan

Jacob Quillian was signed as a free agent by the Leafs following his championship run with Quinnipiac. This year marked his first in the AHL, and he impressed, finishing above a half point per game while playing third-line minutes. He has a good motor and fits well into the Marlies’ middle six, bringing energy on both the backcheck and forecheck. He won’t drive a line, but Quillian can pull off nifty moves to win one-on-one rushes, a trait that boosts his chances as a north-south grinder at the NHL level. He consistently scans well in the defensive zone, identifying threats and plugging lanes. His defensive IQ and effort make him a strong call-up candidate if injuries hit. Quillian will likely return to the AHL next season to work on his offensive consistency, as his points came in bunches, but so did the quiet games. If Steeves is the scoring injury fill-in, Quillian is the defensive energy option.

9 - Artur Akhtiamov

After dominating the VHL and having a very impressive backup season in the KHL at 22, Akhtiamov numbers-wise, took a step back in his Marlies rookie-year. There are a lot of things that could have affected this seeming decrease in performance, but none that should be of any major concern. Transitioning to NA hockey is harder on goalies. Generally, European leagues are more perimeter based and slower paced making it more goalie-friendly. His actual skill set is much more dynamic than someone like Hildeby. He’s a prototypical Russian-style goalie in that he has extreme athleticism and speed. But his skating and anticipation are actually what stand out the most. He has incredible edges and an innate ability to change directions on a dime, reacting quickly to passes. He does struggle with rebounds, excessive movement and needs to learn to engage sooner, but his raw talents are high level. His situation isn’t amazing with the Toronto system as it is, but the ceiling is there to potentially crack a 1A role; it just may be a bit more of a long shot.

10 - Dennis Hildeby

As one of the biggest goalies to play in the NHL this past season at 6-foot-7, Hildeby understandably isn’t overly athletic. His speed, skating, and athletic abilities are about average and are good enough for the NHL, but he makes his paycheque off of his positional game. He’s very positionally sound, having great depth and really smart movement selection. He seems to know what to do; he just hasn’t yet adjusted to the speed of the NHL to fully anticipate plays. But I do think it will come to him easier than most. His level of composure for someone so big is very impressive, as well as how quick his hands can be in making saves. He does struggle with rebounds, which hurt him in the NHL this season. Because of that, he showed that he wasn’t quite ready for the NHL as of yet. His potential could reach a decent tandem goalie by being a calm, reliable presence, but he isn’t dynamic enough or elite in any one thing to become a true starter.

11 - Miroslav Holinka

It was all “veni vidi vici” for Holinka this past winter, who had a successful first WHL season (save for the playoffs) and an upstart WJC before signing his ELC with Toronto this past July. Having made a quick transition to his new surroundings, Holinka brings a solid frame, a multifaceted toolbox, and some natural athleticism to the table. Although a loan-out to a European club isn’t out of the question, Holinka’s versatility and defensive acumen indicate he’s AHL-ready.

12 - Victor Johansson

Slight in frame but big on competitiveness, Johansson comes from a true hockey family. Not only was his dad a long-time pro in Sweden, but his older brothers Simon (Minnesota) and Anton (Detroit) were also NHL draft picks. Oh, and Alex Wennberg (SJS) is a direct cousin. Johansson is coming off a very promising U20 season in Sweden that culminate in 2:13 minutes of SHL action. We’re looking for more pro reps and a WJC push this winter.

13 - William Belle

We had the Minnesota native who is on his way to Notre Dame this fall ranked 121st overall this past summer, ahead of where he went at 137. And sure, we weren’t happy to see him fall down the ranks at the USNTDP (didn’t make the U18 Worlds roster either), but we know Belle’s quite the competitor who can be a wrecking ball of a player. Toronto can bide its time as Belle proves he’s got more to show.

14 - Cade Webber

Very large defensive defencemen - which Webber very much is - take time to develop and Cade has indeed been biding his time to date. Unspectacular with a yeoman style game, the Pennsylvania native understands his role and what is expected of him. Acquired for a sixth-round draft pick from Carolina shortly before becoming a UFA, Webber had a solid, progress-filled first season of AHL play and could be a depth option on the blueline for the Leafs as soon as this winter.

15 - Borya Valis

Valis is a Colorado native who was signed to an ELC this past spring as a WHL free agent. Four successive seasons there were topped off by a breakout offensive campaign in which Valis showed himself to be very adept at getting pucks to the net, driving them there himself whenever possible. He’ll kick off his pro career looking to work on many aspects of his game and it’s up to him to turn himself into an NHL option.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Sat, 17 May 2025 14:15:06 +0000

MONTREAL, QC - SEPTEMBER 28: Easton Cowan (53) of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates during the third period of the NHL pre-season game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens on Sept 28, 2024, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, QC(Photo by Vincent Ethier/Icon Sportswire)

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Toronto 25 Prospects

CHL NOTEBOOK: Playoff Storylines to Watch

Kyle Watson — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 21:52:38 +0000

2025 NHL Draft prospect Caleb Desnoyers (David St. Louis), Centreman Brayden Yager (Lethbridge Hurricanes), and London Knights winger Blake Montgomery (Morgan Roobroeck / Wild Ave Photography)

Most CHL teams compete in two to three-year cycles when they draft and develop well enough to make championship runs. As a result, you see star NHL prospects, team captains, and future junior hockey stars on the move nearly every winter.

For the average NHL fan, keeping track of all the new faces in new places can be difficult, especially the younger players being traded as futures. The season is more eventful than usual with the NCAA-CHL ruling and the new prospect showcase games. The second half of the campaign is when things kick into full gear. Once the trade deadline ends, the skill gap between teams greatly widens, and coaches prioritize either winning now or in a season or two.

This article, and this notebook series in general, seeks to help the casual fan navigate the constantly evolving landscape of junior hockey. With the CHL playoffs underway, here is a look at which teams can win their respective leagues' championships and join host Rimouski at the 2025 Memorial Cup.

Note: there are seven OHL teams, five from the WHL, and two from the QMJHL. This reflects how I feel this year's crop of talent stacks up. Despite the QMJHL winning four Memorial Cups in a row (2018, 2019, 2022, 2023), there is a significant drop-off after the top two teams (Moncton, Rimouski)

Officially underway! #RoadtoMemorialCup pic.twitter.com/bAybFR7C7l

— Canadian Hockey League (@CHLHockey) March 28, 2025

OHL Western Conference: Can anyone stop the Knights from repeating?

Playing with a chip on their shoulder after falling short in last year's Memorial Cup final, the London Knights (55-11-2-0) are in hot pursuit of a sixth OHL championship. The Hunter brothers' perennial powerhouse roster boasts 12 NHL-affiliated prospects—the most of any in the their 25 years of ownership—including first-round picks Sam Dickinson, Oliver Bonk, Easton Cowan, and Sam O'Reilly. Winning the Hamilton Spectator Trophy as regular season champions seemed like a foregone conclusion all year for London: their .824 winning percentage is the second-highest mark in franchise history, only bested by the 2004-05 group named the CHL Team of the Century.

The Knights returned 10 forwards from the group that swept Oshawa in the OHL Championship last season. Team Finland forward Jesse Nurmi joined from Liiga (Fin-1) this summer, reuniting with international teammate Kasper Halttunen. Senators pick Blake Montgomery's quick adjustment in London has been a revelation for the Knights. Departing USHL Lincoln in November, the University of Wisconsin commit scored 16 goals and 30 points in a 15-game stretch on either side of the WJC.

Blake Montgomery mix #GoSensGo

Since he arrived in London in November, the Sens prospect's performances have been a revelation for the Knights.

— 16 G in his last 16 GP
— TOTAL: 23 GP, 17 G, 32 PTS, +25, 62 SOG pic.twitter.com/XQXX3YdS9x

— Kyle Watson (@kyle_nw) January 13, 2025

London has a deep and versatile D corps comprising Team Canada's Dickinson and Bonk, Kings prospect Jared Woolley, Capitals pick Cam Allen and draft-eligible Henry Brzustewicz. An impressive 71 of the Knights' league-leading 313 goals have come from the backend (22.7%). Dickinson has evolved into one of the premier rearguards outside the NHL: the Sharks' first-rounder's 91 points this year are the most by a defenceman in a single season in franchise history.

They have two capable goaltenders in OA Austin Elliott and 17-year-old Alexei Medvedev. Elliott enters the playoffs with a sparkling 32-1-0-0 record and led the league with a 2.10 GAA and .924 SV%. Medvedev has been relied on heavily in big games and could be the starter in the playoffs despite being one of the youngest players available at the 2025 NHL Draft. Scouts are impressed with the rookie's command of the crease and 6-3, 180-pound frame.

The Windsor Spitfires (45-17-4-2) achieved the biggest turnaround in franchise history, improving from 44 points to 96 to claim their third West Division title in four seasons. Led by the two-headed monster of Liam Greentree and Ilya Protas, Windsor is a heavy forechecking machine. Protas' 124 points tie him with Wyatt Johnston for the fourth-greatest single-season total in franchise history. Greentree is close behind in seventh place with 119.

Windsor's quick turnaround was accelerated by them winning the draft lottery. The first overall pick in the 2024 OHL Draft, Ethan Belchetz, has made an immediate impact with 17 goals and 38 points through 56 games. The 6-5, 226-pound winger is one of many weapons in the Spitfires' deep arsenal of forwards.

Ethan Belchetz (Tim Cornett/OHL Images)

I have concerns about a lack of playoff experience on this roster and problems on the backend. Beyond OA forward Ryan Abraham, only three players on the roster have won a playoff series: Wyatt Kennedy, Tnias Mathurin, and Owen Outwater—all while playing in North Bay. 19-year-old Anthony Cristoforo has begun to display the abilities that made him an OHL first-round pick in 2022, leading the defence with 12 goals and 61 points. However, I'm worried about the rest of the corps' puck-moving ability. Starter Joey Costanzo has 75 career wins but is yet to earn his first postseason victory.

The Kitchener Rangers (47-15-4-2) are an impressive team under Head Coach Jussi Ahokas. The Finnish bench boss has his group playing structured, disciplined hockey. With the fourth-youngest roster in the league, they have plenty of energy to suffocate opponents with their checking. Only London conceded fewer goals than the Rangers' 183. After being written off as a rebuilding group heading into the season, Kitchener reached the 100-point mark for the fourth time in history. Much of their success can be attributed to the play of OA goaltender Jackson Parsons. The 20-year-old led the league with 37 wins and five shutouts.

No OHL team immediately benefitted from the NCAA-CHL rulings more than Kitchener. Boston University commit Jack Pridham finished with 27 goals and 54 points in 48 games, arriving from the BCHL in November. Since departing the University of Michigan in January, Christian Humphreys has assumed the 1C role between vets Adrian Misaljevic and Trent Swick.

Cameron Reid has blossomed into one of the league's best puck-moving rearguards: second among all CHL draft-eligible defencemen with 52 points. Fellow draft eligibles Luca Romano and Tanner Lam stepped into top-six roles this season. The trio form one of the CHL's strongest young cores. GM Mike McKenzie has done well in helping this team succeed in the present with the future in mind. With Ahokas and his coaching staff recently extending their contracts through the 2026-27 season, the Rangers may have a bid for the 2027 Memorial Cup in their sights.

OHL Eastern Conference: Who is the real favourite?

As they surged to the top of the Eastern Conference in the second half, leading scorer Nick Lardis rewrote the Brantford Bulldogs' history books. The Blackhawks' 2023 third round pick's 71 goals in 65 games are the most in a single OHL season since John Tavares scored 72 in 2006-07 (and the sixth most in history). The high-flying winger also tied Eric Lindros for the most game-winning goals (16) and set franchise records in goals and points (116).

All 70 Goals Nick Lardis has scored from his record breaking year! #Blackhawks fans I present @OHLHockey superstar @NickLardis91 pic.twitter.com/JuxWFci37B

— The Prospect Don (@IceLevelIntel) March 9, 2025

Brantford possesses the league's top powerplay, clicking at 28.2%, and it's easy to see why. Veteran puck-moving defenceman Tomas Hamara anchors the top unit, with projected lottery pick Jake O'Brien and Lardis on either half-wall. O'Brien's 41 powerplay assists were the most in the OHL. 2022 OHL Champion Patrick Thomas, one of the premier playmakers in junior hockey, operates in the bumper spot, and Devils prospect Cole Brown has flourished as a net-front scorer. The 19-year-old winger nearly doubled his career mark of 17 goals, scoring 33 times (11 on the man advantage).

With just five regulation losses this calendar year and arguably the hottest prospect in the CHL, Head coach Jay McKee is well-positioned to lead his team to another deep playoff push. However, they are arguably better situated to make a run next season, considering their strong core of '06s. 2024 NHL first-round picks Marek Vanacker and Adam Jiříček will return as 19-year-olds, as will Habs prospect Owen Protz and goaltenders Ryerson Leenders and David Egorov. I wouldn't be surprised if O'Brien immediately breaks Lardis's single-season points record in 2025-26.

Barrie Colts' Head Coach/GM Marty Williamson's phone has been buzzing all season. The 61-year-old made a statement of intent when he traded for Stars prospects Brad Gardiner and Tristan Bertucci and OA pivot Dalyn Wakely early in the campaign. The core of the team, led by '06s Cole Beaudoin, Kashawn Aitcheson, and Riley Patterson, was expanded in the summer with the additions of import picks Gabriel Eliasson and Emil Hemming.

Thus, it was no surprise when Williamson reunited Wakely with his veteran teammates from North Bay, Anthony Romani and Owen Van Steensel, at the deadline. They formed one of the top lines in junior hockey last season for the Battalion, combining for 301 points in 68 games.

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The Colts had an adjustment period with so many new faces in town, but this roster is tailor-made for the postseason. It's an experienced group with plenty of size and experience, built from the back out with two strong goaltenders in Sam Hillebrandt and Ben Hrebik. Perhaps no player embodies the Colts' style of play more than Aitcheson, our 16th-ranked prospect for the upcoming draft. The draft-eligible defender plays a hard-nosed, physical game and brings 110% every night. He's the first OHL rearguard since Evan Bouchard to score four overtime goals in a single season.

Not only is this Aitcheson's fourth overtime game-winner of the season, that's now six GWGs overall, which is tops among all OHL defenders

C-l-u-t-c-h https://t.co/hwmpQvzWu6

— Derek Neumeier (@Derek_N_NHL) February 28, 2025

The Kingston Frontenacs were the busiest OHL team at the deadline, aggressively pursuing their first Eastern Conference title. They moved 20 picks (as well as NHL Draft prospects Xander Vellaris and Ethan Weir) to add Joey Willis, Ethan Hay, and Will Bishop from the Saginaw Spirit and overage goaltender Charlie Schenkel from the Soo Greyhounds. The number of assets they gave up surprised some, but the franchise just celebrated its 50th anniversary season. You can't blame them for throwing down the gauntlet. Their 40-20-5-3 record is their best finish since Shane Wright's draft season (2021-22).

The three Saginaw '05s bring championship pedigree and fortify a strong veteran group in Kingston. Flames' 2024 second-round pick Jacob Battaglia could prove to be an X factor in the postseason: The rangy winger has looked fantastic on a line with overage centerman Cédrick Guindon and WJC silver medallist Tuomas Uronen. They've been one of the top trios in the league this campaign, with Battaglia and Uronen finishing T-10th in scoring with 90 points.

THAT'S 30 FOR BATES#Flames | @NHLFlames | @OHLHockey https://t.co/TlP5yTMYdR pic.twitter.com/UEqmEPTUK4

— Kingston Frontenacs (@KingstonFronts) February 2, 2025

Though the Fronts may lack true star talent, GM Kory Cooper has assembled a deep, experienced group that will be difficult to face in a seven-game series. They had a 21-9-0-1 record after reinforcements arrived in January.

There is a strong chance the Knights and the Oshawa Generals will meet in the finals for the second year running. Oshawa is the only team in the CHL besides London with four NHL first-round picks. Blue-chippers Calum Ritchie, Beckett Sennecke, Ben Danford, and Colby Barlow lead a squad that features reigning OHL Goaltender of the Year Jacob Oster.

They bolstered their blueline at the deadline by acquiring Andrew Gibson from the Soo Greyhounds. The Predators prospect, who played on Team Canada's first pairing at the World Juniors, is one of the toughest defencemen to face in the league. Between Gibson, Danford, and Blue Jackets' prospect Luca Marrelli, the Gens give the Knights blueline a run for their money as the league's best. It's a bit of a throwback-style group that won't give you an inch of breathing room in their zone. Marrelli, in particular, has been excellent this season. Kicking off the campaign with nine goals and 23 points in his first 16 contests, the Toronto native has blossomed into one of the CHL's premier two-way defencemen.

Oshawa's offence is nothing to snuff at. Ritchie and Sennecke are exceptionally talented and well-rounded forwards, among the top five in the 'O' for points per game. Barlow, the 18th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, endured some growing pains when Ritchie and Sennecke were out of the lineup in the fall. The Jets prospect went scoreless in his first six games of the campaign and was cut from Team Canada's World Junior squad despite scoring 40+ goals the two seasons prior. He is slowly finding his scoring touch as the Gens settle into playoff mode. At his best, Barlow is a goal-scoring threat from any range who can play tough matchups and kill penalties. Oshawa will need him to be should they challenge for a league-leading 14th championship.

WHL Western Conference: A Battle Between American Heavyweights

Landon Dupont is here, and he's the real deal. The WHL's second-ever recipient of exceptional status has rapidly transitioned to life in major junior hockey. The 15-year-old enjoyed the sixth-most productive season by a U17 defenceman in league history, tallying 17 goals and 60 points in 64 contests. It's not just the points, either. Dupont has shown strong defensive awareness and a relentless checking game thus far, mature beyond his years one-on-one.

What's unique about Dupont is that he's playing on the best team in the league — most exceptional-status talents join rebuilding groups. In January 2023, the Everett Silvertips (48-12-4-4) acquired what turned out to be the 2024 first-overall pick from Kamloops in the Olen Zellweger trade, using it to select the Calgary, Alta. native. Under the tutelage of new Head coach Steve Hamilton, Everett secured the Scott Munro Memorial Trophy as regular season champions, boasting a league-best +98 goal differential.

The 'Tips will have to battle through the playoffs without leading scorer Carter Bear, who suffered a season-ending injury in a game on March 7th. Bear is the 18th draft-eligible skater to reach the 40-goal plateau in the WHL since 2000. The return of former captain Austin Roest offsets the loss: the Predators prospect has spent the year with AHL Milwaukee completing injury rehab. World Junior silver medallist Julius Miettinen and overage forwards Tyler MacKenzie and Dominik Rymon round out the Everett offence, each scoring above a point-per-game pace.

Co-captains Kaden Hammell and Eric Jamieson lead a blueline that conceded a league-fewest 178 goals this campaign. Jesse Sanche has been dependable between the pipes, with a 23-9-2-0 record in his rookie season. 2025 eligible Raiden Legall has proved a stronger option since arriving from the MJHL in November. The Bemidji State commit finished 16-2-1-3 with a league-best .921 SV% and 2.17 GAA .

The Spokane Chiefs (45-20-1-2) landed the biggest fish available at the trade deadline, adding Kelowna Rockets maestro Andrew Cristall. The Capitals prospect's 2.32 points per game trail only Connor Bedard's draft year for the greatest single-season total in the 'W' this century. Cristall (22-50-72) and linemate Berkly Catton combined for an incredible 62 goals and 171 points across 29 contests together in Spokane.

The team's three overage players, Shea Van Olm, Brayden Crampton, and Rasmus Ekström, join Catton and Cristall in the team's top-five scoring leaders. Van Olm, in particular, has been excellent as the Chiefs' triggerman—the 20-year-old led the WHL with 49 goals (one more than Cristall).

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/kieron_walton_-_3rd_period_16_49_-_17_1.mp4

16-year-old Mathis Preston is enjoying a fruitful maiden campaign in Spokane. The nifty winger won gold at the 2024 World U17s in November and is among the top prospects eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. Beyond Crampton, NHL prospects Sage Weinstein, William McIsaac and Nathan Mayes round out the rest of the D corps in front of veteran netminder Dawson Cowan.

WHL Eastern Conference: A Bloodbath in the Central Division

Spearheaded by the most profiled prospect in the sport, the Medicine Hat Tigers (47-17-3-1) have made a real push in the second half of the season to remain atop a stacked Central Division. Gavin McKenna's 2.30 points per game give him the most productive DY-1 season in the CHL since Sidney Crosby (2.29), scoring 41 goals and 129 points in 56 games. The Whitehorse, Yukon native finished the year on a 40-game point streak (32-68-100) and was left scoreless just three times.

Medicine Hat has assembled a championship-calibre team to ensure a deep postseason run for McKenna. GM/Head coach Willie Desjardins moved for a trio of '06 skaters in the offseason: Bryce Pickford, Jonas Woo, and Ryder Ritchie. Pickford led all Tigers defencemen with 47 points in 48 contests. His 20 goals tied him for the third-most of any WHL rearguard. Woo has been equally impressive, posting career totals in all categories. Ritchie, the Minnesota Wild prospect, is riding shotgun on the first line next to McKenna and captain Oaziz Wiesblatt. Finnish defencemen Veeti Väisänen (property of Utah) and Niilopekka Muhonen (Dallas) were recruited in the CHL Import Draft.

Fellow summer acquisition Matthew Ward centers a veteran second line between NHL prospects Hunter St. Martin and Andrew Basha. Both are multitalented, speedy wingers capable of playing on both special teams. St. Martin, the Panthers 2024 sixth-rounder, trailed only McKenna for the the team lead in goals (39), powerplay goals (9), and was first in shorthanded goals (7).

The news that McKenna could depart to the University of Michigan for his draft-eligible season was followed by Medicine Hat adding Predators first-round pick Tanner Molendyk and veteran shutdown forward Misha Volotovskii from Saskatoon. Molendyk, the Predators' 2023 first-round pick, is among the most talented defensemen outside the NHL.

Pretty stuff always finding its way off the sticks of Molendyk, McKenna and Wiesblatt @TigersHockey pic.twitter.com/V6SipHyLHM

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) January 26, 2025

Trailing the Tigers by just two points in the Central are the Calgary Hitmen (45-17-3-3). Their blueline, headed by Carter Yakemchuk, could prove to be the league's premier group in the postseason. The 2024 seventh-overall pick continues to lead the Hitmen blueline in all offensive categories, with 16 goals and 44 points in 45 contests. Canucks prospect Sawyer Mynio was acquired upon his return from representing Canada at the WJC and provides a terrific foil to Yakemchuk's high-octane offensive game. Reigning WHL Champion Kalem Parker and 6-5, 210-pound Flames pick Axel Hurtig round a group that conceded the second-fewest goals in the regular season (183).

Calgary's top line, comprised of draft-eligible centre Ben Kindel, Team Canada WJC forward Tanner Howe and veteran Oliver Tulk, is among the WHL's elite. Howe is a physical menace who can score beneath the dots and Tulk reached the century mark in points this season, finishing sixth in league scoring. Kindel, who ranks 18th in our latest 2025 NHL Draft rankings, is a crafty duel-threat scorer who makes up for a lack of size with an industrious checking game. The Coquitlam, B.C. native led all WHL draft-eligibles with 35 goals and 99 points.

The Lethbridge Hurricanes (42-21-3-2) added championship pedigree in December when they moved for Team Canada WJC captain Brayden Yager and 2005-born goaltender Jackson Unger. Yager, the Jets prospect, is among the league's top two-way pivots and leads an experienced forward group. Lethbridge further cemented their attack with the addition of OA centreman Jordan Gustafson. The Golden Knights prospect, who's battled injuries this season, had six goals and nine points in eight contests.

Brayden Yager (Lethbridge Hurricanes)

The Hurricanes blueline, headlined by captain Noah Chadwick, was also bolstered with the addition of Yager's WJC teammater, Caden Price.

QMJHL Playoffs: Will Moncton join Rimouski at the 2025 Memorial Cup?

In his first full season coaching at the major junior level, legendary University of New Brunswick bench boss Gardiner MacDougall has turned the Moncton Wildcats (53-9-2-0) into a powerhouse. They led the 'Q' in goals for (294) and goal differential (+150), and won their last 15 regular season games. With an .844 winning percentage, the QMJHL regular season champions finished as the top-ranked team in the CHL.

Centreman Caleb Desnoyers led the team with 35 goals and 84 points through 56 games, ranked sixth in our The 17-year-old is one of three players to win gold at the World U17s, U18s, and Hlinka-Gretzky Cup (along with Matthew Schaefer and Jack Ivankovic). Coming in at sixth in our March NHL Draft rankings, Desnoyers could boost his stock with another championship (or two) to his name.

Caleb Desnoyers (David St. Louis)

World Juniors standouts Juraj Pekarcik and Julius Sumpf flank Desonyers on the first line, with Alex Mercier, Vincent Collard and captain Markus Vidicek rounding out a veteran top six.

Flames prospect Étienne Morin conducts a big, physically imposing defence corps. At the deadline, they acquired defenceman Dyllan Gill and Mathis Rousseau, Canada's goalie at last year's WJC. Gill has excelled as a two-way threat since being assigned from AHL Syracuse. Rousseau will have to fight for the starting job: Red Wings prospect Rudy Guimond is a perfect 16-0 with a .940 SV% and 1.73 GAA since arriving as a free agent from USHL Cedar Rapids.

The Rimouski Oceanic (46-14-2-2) have been in fine form since the calendar turned: they're 23-4-2-1 in the new year. After adding reigning league MVP Mathieu Cataford in the summer, the Memorial Cup hosts traded for league-leading scorer Jonathan Fauchon, WJC standout Eriks Mateiko, and Victoriaville captain Maël Lavigne midseason.

Fauchon centers the top line between fellow overage Jacob Mathieu and Ducks prospect Alexandre Blais. Fauchon and Mathieu are second and fifth in the league for goals with 46 and 41, respectively. Blais has collected 53 helpers, operating as the playmaker. A second line comprised of Catatford, Mateiko, and Lavigne rounds out a stacked top six.

Flyers 2024 second-round pick Spencer Gill and OA Pier-Olivier Roy lead a big, physical blueline, alongside Panthers pick Luke Coughlin and Canucks prospect Basile Sansonnens. It's unclear whether 2025 NHL Draft prospect Mathis Langevin (12-6-1-0, .912%, 2.55) or 2026 eligible William Lacelle (27-5-1-2, .909%, 2.38), who leads the league in safve percentage, will start Game 1.

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Preview – Team Canada

Derek Neumeier — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:00:30 +0000

_{GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN - DECEMBER 27: Latvia vs Canada Preliminary Round - Group A action at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship at Scandinavium on December 27, 2023 in Gothenburg, Sweden. (Photo by Matt Zambonin/IIHF)}

For every Canadian contingent at the annual World Juniors tournament, there is only one goal, one standard that is strived for: winning gold. Anything less than that is considered a failure.

At the same time, however, there are still different degrees of failure that exist for the hockey juggernaut when it comes to this event. So when Canada only finished 5th last year, after being bounced by Czechia in the quarterfinals and getting sent home before they were even able to compete for a medal of any colour, it was nothing short of a catastrophe on all fronts.

The good news is that it's still possible to turn last year's outcome into little more than a blip in the country's long history of World Juniors success stories. After all, Canada had won gold the two preceding years, and then again two years before that.

And perhaps the host city for this year's tournament is a good omen for a comeback. Not only will Canada have the advantage of playing on home soil, but they'll be doing so again in Ottawa, where they emerged victorious back in 2009, which was the fifth iteration in an incredible stretch of five consecutive championships. That also happened to be one of the most iconic Canadian performances ever in this tournament, from the violent drama of the New Year's Eve match against the United States to Jordan Eberle's game-tying goal against Russia in the semifinals, to a masterful, top-to-bottom assault that stunned Sweden in the deciding game.

This year won’t be a cakewalk, however. The Americans are dangerous and seen by many as the favorites coming in, younger players than usual will be tasked with important roles, and some very highly-regarded names were controversially left off the team in an attempt to strike a better kind of balance within the roster, decisions that will be scrutinized even further if Canada underperforms expectations.

The stakes are high and the pressure is mounting. Now it’s time to see what these Canadian players are made of.

Key Players

Cole Beaudoin, Center

Anyone who might feel skeptical about Beaudoin making this team needs to go back and watch the gold-medal game of the 2024 IIHF U18s, between Canada and the United States. He was nothing short of fantastic in that pivotal contest, scoring a 3rd-period goal and putting in stalwart defensive work throughout his 20 minutes of ice time, especially when Canada was defending their lead late against a final American push. That was a quintessential Beaudoin performance, showing him at the peak of what his impact can be as a workhorse center who has no trouble carrying a heavy load. And because he's so experienced, comfortable and effective with how he plays it makes it easy for his coaches to know exactly how to use him. Any time Canada needs to close out a win in this tournament you can be sure that Beaudoin will be coming over the boards.

Oliver Bonk, Defense

Bonk is usually not particularly entertaining to watch, but he's the type of player that you could set your watch to. When it comes to producing consistently solid two-way hockey as a defenseman, he is nearly unparalleled for this age group. He can eat up a lot of minutes in all situations and rarely leaves his team in a worse spot than the one that they were in when he stepped onto the ice. And perhaps most crucially, after back-to-back appearances in the OHL finals with the London Knights, one trip to the Memorial Cup, and him being a returnee for this tournament, he's not likely to be intimidated or thrown off of his game by the bright spotlight that will be shining directly on him and the rest of the home team. If he can act as a calming presence for this blueline it could make a bigger difference than most spectators realize.

Berkly Catton, Center

Getting the opportunity to don the maple leaf will be a thrill for every player on this roster, but it's safe to assume that Catton will be a little extra excited about it. He was nothing short of heroic last year for a young and outgunned Spokane Chiefs club, playing a mind-boggling amount of minutes and putting in an immeasurable amount of work to help his team make the playoffs, often lifting them up single-handedly. Unfortunately for him, that long grind took a toll on his body and forced him to sit out last spring's IIHF U18 tournament due to injury, denying him the chance to improve upon the bronze medal that he won in the same event the year prior as an underage player. Now that he's healthy again and surrounded by a strong supporting cast we could really see him thrive in Ottawa, using his elite hockey sense, lighting-quick acceleration and deep bag of puck tricks to carve up enemy defenses.

Easton Cowan, Wing

Over the past couple of years Cowan has become fondly known by his nickname of "Cowboy," and a large part of why he's so successful as a prospect is because he knows how to bring a lot of "yeehaw" to how he plays. To put it another way, his work rate and tenacity are unmatched, his enthusiasm and confidence are infectious, and he's utterly fearless when it comes to any challenge that he faces. The effect of those intangibles is just as pronounced and impactful as what he actually does with the puck on his stick, which is also quite a lot, including routinely making big plays in big, game-deciding moments. Unlike most of his teammates, Cowan has yet to ever win an international gold medal with Canada, so he might be especially motivated in Ottawa by the chance to finally cross that kind of dreamed-about milestone off of his career to-do list.

Sam Dickinson, Defense

To say that Dickinson has been unstoppable in the OHL so far this season might still be selling it short. He's produced a staggering 46 points in 26 games, which is not only the most among all defenders in that league, but also put him in the Top 10 of overall scoring before he headed to Canada's selection camp. His success stems primarily from his combination of a 6-foot-3 frame, exceptional athleticism and explosive skating prowess. The way he can rush the puck up the ice is frequently jaw-dropping, and he is making progress with learning how to use those same tools to be a moving wall defensively. There are still some hiccups with his decision-making and puck management, so his coaches will need to be careful with his usage in such a short tournament, but if they ever need to increase the pace of a game or push for a much-needed goal then he'll be a go-to option.

Carter George, Goaltender

It shouldn't come as a surprise that George made this roster, given his prior success for Canada internationally. He backstopped his home nation to two gold medals just last year, first at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and then at the 2024 IIHF U18s, and was named the best goaltender at the latter event. He's about as focused and unflappable as goalies come at this age group, regardless of whether he's facing a barrage of shots all game or only periodic chances, and he's previously shown the ability to shut out all the outside noise and pressure that often sinks Canadian netminders in best-on-best competition. George might not outright steal any games in this tournament, but that's alright because he shouldn't have to. If he can manage his crease with poise and consistency that should be enough to lead his team to victory.

Gavin McKenna, Wing

Like Connor Bedard three years ago, and Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby going even further back, McKenna was named to a Canadian World Juniors roster before he reached his 17th birthday because of his sheer amounts of skill, hockey sense and potential to be a difference-maker were all simply too high to leave him off, regardless of his age. The reigning CHL Rookie of the Year leads the WHL in scoring heading into the holiday break thanks to his dazzling puck control, incisive vision and the competitive chip on his shoulder. McKenna is currently the scouting industry's consensus projection to become the 1st-overall pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, and that distinction will be further cemented if he shines bright in Ottawa, which is a likely outcome given his track record and body of work up to this point in his career.

Bradly Nadeau, Wing

Nadeau is the only member of this Canadian roster who has been playing hockey full-time at a professional level this season (with the AHL's Chicago Wolves, where he has an impressive 15 points in 22 games), which will help minimize this particular advantage that is always held by the top European clubs, who routinely bring multiple players with pro experience. He also might be something of a wildcard for this team, because he's highly talented and has been enjoying a steep upward trajectory with his development in recent years, yet this will be his first time representing Canada internationally. If everything comes together just right for Nadeau he could be a top player in this event, showing off his slippery transition play and booming slapshot, and using the opportunity as a springboard to turn him into a much bigger name in the hockey world.

Cal Ritchie, Center

Ritchie is one of three players on this roster who have already dressed for NHL regular-season games, though he's the only one so far who has collected his first goal at the sport's highest level. He probably could have stuck around all season in Colorado and succeeded, but getting to chase a gold medal at the World Juniors was one of the reasons why the Avalanche chose to send him back down to the OHL one last time. The big, abundantly skilled center is scoring at a pace of nearly two points per game with his club team in Oshawa and might be Canada's single-best offensive weapon here, especially considering he's older and more experienced than most of the others who will be wearing the maple leaf. He can generate offense in any way that he wants to, and can do so at both even strength and on the power play.

Matthew Schaefer, Defense

Just how special is Schaefer as a prospect? Let's put it this way: he is the first 17-year-old defenseman to be named to a Canadian World Juniors roster since Ryan Ellis, all the way back at the 2009 tournament. And there is a long list of great Canadian defensemen who came around between then and now but didn't get that privilege. When you watch him play he certainly doesn't look his age, with a poise and maturity well beyond his years, and he has an expert understanding of how to use his sublime skating ability to be a difference-maker all over the ice. Schaefer is one of only three players to ever win gold at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, IIHF U18s and the Hlinka, and if he adds another one to his trophy case here it will break even more new ground and add another chapter to an already remarkable story that he has only just begun writing for himself.

Sleeper Player

Carson Bjarnason, Goaltender

While Carter George comes into this tournament as Canada's expected number-one goalie, there's still a real chance that Bjarnason will take over the reins at some point and hold onto them in the elimination games. He doesn't have the same track record of international success that George does, but he's a year older, he's bigger, and he's faster in his movements. An argument could rationally be made that, on paper, Bjarnason is the better goalie at this point in time. There are still some consistency issues in his game, but he's pulled off more than a few show-stopping performances in his years in Brandon, and a goalie only needs to stay hot for a few matches in a row to lead his team to glory at the World Juniors. If he turns out to have the hottest hand among the Canadian goalies then his coaches would be remiss to not put their trust in him.

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #29

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Brock Otten — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 18:00:33 +0000

MONTREAL, QC - SEPTEMBER 30: Fraser Minten (39) of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates during the first period of the NHL pre-season game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens on September 30, 2023, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, QC(Photo by Vincent Ethier/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 29th (Previous Rank - 25th)
GM: Brad Treliving Hired: May 2023
COACH: Craig Berube Hired: May 2024

The beat goes on for the Maple Leafs, who once again fell short in the NHL playoffs. Despite having several high-calibre talents anchoring the top half of their lineup, few teams have struggled as much as Toronto to find postseason success. As expected, the combination of consistently making the playoffs but failing to advance has taken its toll on the club’s prospect pool, as they now find themselves dropping toward the league's basement in our McKeen’s prospect rankings.

With five players consuming nearly 63% of their overall cap space, the need for affordable, talented options is greater than ever. On the positive side, the Leafs managed to graduate two players in 2023-24: Matthew Knies and Nick Robertson—the latter of whom may seek a more prominent role elsewhere? Knies, however, stands out as the team’s most promising graduate in years, following a 35-point rookie season. He has a strong chance of securing a top six role, potentially filling the secondary scoring void the team has long sought.

While the depth of the prospect pool is limited, there are still some reasons for optimism for the future. Easton Cowan (35th ranked), their 2023 first-round pick and the team’s lone prospect within McKeen’s top 50, is coming off a stellar season, racking up numerous accolades, including being named to the OHL First All-Star Team, winning the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player, and earning OHL Playoff MVP honours with the most points by any skater (34). He even enjoyed a 42-game point streak midway through the season. While the Leafs will have to wait a few seasons to realize Cowan’s impact at the NHL level, he’s a promising addition to an otherwise underwhelming prospect pool.

Rounding out their remaining three top 200 prospects are 2022 second-rounder Fraser Minten (106th), who’s slated to turn pro this fall, and two defencemen—Topi Niemelä (144th) and recent pick Ben Danford (161st).

In addition to their homegrown talent, the Leafs have also added a few NCAA recruits, most notably Jacob Quillan, who brings a versatile two-way game that adds some much-needed dynamism to the farm system. His development will be intriguing to keep tabs on, as he could serve as a low-key and cost-effective bottom-six option in the not-so-distant future.

With only one pick (second round) in the top four rounds of the 2025 Entry Draft, Toronto’s amateur scouting team will need to work overtime next year to find worthy talent to bolster this free-falling depth chart.

Toronto Maple Leafs Top-15 Prospects

1. Easton Cowan

42 games. That’s the number of games in a row that Easton Cowan registered a point during the stretch run last year, one of the reasons why he was named the Red Tilson Award winner as the OHL’s most outstanding player. He helped the Knights capture an OHL title and emerged as one of the best players in the CHL, one year removed from being a “reach” in the eyes of most Leafs’ fans. He has gone from being an overdraft in the eyes of the media and the fan base, to someone Leafs’ fans are extremely excited about in a matter of a calendar year. With improvements made to his puck skill, playmaking touch, and strength on the puck, Cowan has managed to alter the perception of his NHL projection. He’s still got a solid floor because of his high-end skating ability, two-way effectiveness, and great motor, however with the improvements made to his on-puck play, he’s become a potential top six forward down the line. It would be fair to say that few prospects in the NHL have improved their fortune more than Cowan did last season.

2. Fraser Minten

The former 38th overall pick started last season in Toronto after a terrific training camp, but he was returned to the WHL after only a few games. This was best for his development as it was deemed important that Minten return to the WHL to continue to improve his on puck play and offensive production. The captain of this past year’s Canadian WJC team, Minten likely doesn’t have significant offensive upside at the NHL level. He plays a pretty simple game; get to the net and get pucks in deep. He’s not a dynamic skater. He’s not a dynamic handler. However, he has a clear understanding of how he needs to play in order to be successful. While Minten is not likely to be a top six forward in the future, he projects as a high end third line player who can play the kind of heavy game that has been lacking in the playoffs for the Maple Leafs in recent seasons. For that reason, Toronto fans should be excited about the possibility of Minten taking up a permanent spot in the lineup in the near future.

3. Topi Niemela

After a stagnant development year in Liiga two seasons ago, Toronto couldn’t wait to get Niemela over to North America last season so that they could get him the kind of ice time and responsibility that they wanted for him. The top defensive prospect in the Leafs’ system, Niemela has rewarded this confidence in his abilities with a very strong rookie year with the Marlies. Not only did his offensive game translate seamlessly thanks to his high-end mobility and vision, but he was better defensively than anticipated. He defended small areas well with more intensity than previously shown and he adjusted to the small ice well from a decision-making standpoint. After bringing in three veteran defenders this offseason, Niemela is almost assured to be ticketed for the Marlies again and that’s just fine. Toronto can now afford to be cautious with his development in hopes that he can become a top four defender down the road.

4. Ben Danford

Just like Easton Cowan last year, the Leafs shocked a lot of people when they selected Oshawa defender Ben Danford in the first round this past draft. Danford had a strong second half with the Generals, helping them reach the OHL finals. During that time, he improved his confidence with the puck and overall decision making considerably. A terrific skater, it helped to reshape the perception of Danford’s upside as a possible two-way defender at the pro level. Even if the offence never comes around, Danford is strong enough defensively to be a highly effective NHL defender. He’s competitive. His mobility gives him a nice advantage as a transition defender. He is already an expert shot blocker, a testament to his strong defensive IQ. Danford will return to the OHL this season, to an Oshawa team that has a chance to repeat as Eastern Conference champions. Putting together a full season of strong play will be the focus.

5. Nikita Grebyonkin

Fresh off winning a KHL Championship with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, the Leafs were able to sign the talented winger, bringing him over to North America for this season. This is huge for the Leafs, to get him into the fold after a breakout KHL season at 21. Armed with high end offensive tools, an argument could be made that Grebyonkin possesses the highest upside of any forward in the system. He’s a dynamic transitional attacker because of his speed and handling ability; he routinely takes on defenders one on one and wins. Over the last two seasons in the KHL, he’s managed to fill out his 6-foot-2 frame, and it’s helped him be more consistent off the puck and when fighting through contact against pro sized defenders. This bodes well for his adjustment to the AHL level this year, assuming that he doesn’t break training camp with the Leafs.

6. Dennis Hildeby

The massive Swedish netminders’ first pro season in North America had to be considered a big (no pun intended) success. Hildeby was excellent as the starter for the Marlies, posting a save percentage above .910 and showing terrific consistency for a younger netminder without a ton of pro experience. We quickly forget how meteoric Hildeby’s rise has been. A classic late bloomer, he’s only got a season as an SHL back-up and now a season as an AHL starter under his belt at 23. However, the marked improvement in his athleticism and quickness have helped unlock his potential in recent years and now he looks like a potential NHL netminder. One would assume that Toronto would like to see Hildeby play another full year in the AHL this season, before giving him a full-time look. Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz should split time on the main club, leaving Hildeby as the top call up option.

7. Artur Akhtyamov

Grebyonkin wasn’t the only Russian prospect in the system to experience a breakout year at 22 (turning 23). Akhtyamov, a 6-foot-1 netminder, had quite the season as well. He won the VHL’s top goaltender award, a VHL championship, and played well in the KHL as Ak Bars Kazan’s backup. This prompted Toronto to sign him, bringing him over for the upcoming season. The problem will be finding playing time for all of these players. Matt Murray was brought back as depth and one would think that he and Hildeby will get the bulk of the action with the Marlies. That could leave Akhtyamov in the ECHL. The netminder could take some time adjusting to the pro level in North America anyway. He’s highly athletic and a solid play tracker, but netminders his size can sometimes struggle with the adjustment. Between him and Hildeby, the Leafs have built up some nice pro depth behind Joseph Woll, as they inevitably battle for the future of Toronto’s crease.

8. Ryan Tverberg

Injuries have not been kind to the former UConn Husky as he has started his pro career in Toronto’s system. When he’s been on the ice, Tverberg has played well. His speed, tenacity, and strong two-way approach have transferred well. He’s still very much on track to become a quality bottom six, penalty killing anchor for the Leafs in the future. However, lower body and upper body injuries limited him to 46 games with the Marlies in his first pro season. The focus this season will be on staying healthy, while continuing to be a valued contributor to the Marlies. Toronto’s AHL club should look totally different next year with so much movement on the depth front. That could clear a path for Tverberg to take on a critical AHL role, which would be outstanding for his development.

9. Roni Hirvonen

Speaking of injuries, Hirvonen is lucky to still be playing after a scary eye injury at the beginning of last season. Narrowly avoiding disaster, Hirvonen returned half-way through the year to a depth role on the Marlies. The team’s former second round pick showed flashes of being a quality two-way forward in limited action. Hirvonen is best described as one of those jack-of-all-trades types. He’s not elite in any category, but his well-rounded skill set, and high IQ make him a potential middle six type in the future. Much like Tverberg, Hirvonen stands to earn more ice time with the Marlies this season and that will be positive for his development. There’s a need to add strength to his undersized frame to help him be stronger on pucks and be an even more effective two-way option.

10. Noah Chadwick

Without a doubt, Chadwick was one of the WHL’s breakout players this past season with Lethbridge. He went from being a 6th round long shot to one of the WHL’s top defenders in a matter of a single season. One of the reasons for that has been an uptick in usage. He took over as the top powerplay quarterback and did a very good job running that unit, even if Lethbridge’s powerplay was one of the weaker statistically in the WHL last season. Another reason has been the improvement made to Chadwick’s skating. He’s improved his carrying ability and his confidence with the puck, which in turn made him a standout at both ends in his draft year plus one. The next steps? Chadwick’s skating still needs to improve overall. He can still struggle with his agility and overall footwork, even if he’s a standout rush defender. I’m sure the Leafs would like to see him use his size more consistently too, to be a physical standout in the defensive end. All things considered; his rapid progression has made him a very intriguing prospect in the system moving forward.

11. Alex Steeves

It’s now or never for Steeves in the Maple Leafs’ organization. The 24 (turning 25) year old has continued to improve in the AHL and was one of the Marlies’ best players last year. He’s ready to show that he can be a full time NHL player. He has continued to improve his skating and pace of play, and his versatility as an effective player, on and off the puck, makes him an ideal candidate for a bottom six role in today’s NHL.

12. Nick Abruzzese

13. Nick Moldenhauer

Moldenhauer had a solid freshman year for the Michigan Wolverines last season, playing a critical middle six role. The skilled and competitive forward just needs to keep improving his strength to overcome his lack of size, given the way that he likes to play through traffic. As a sophomore, he’ll get an opportunity to play more and could be in for a breakthrough season.

14. Joe Miller

If you’re only stat watching, Miller’s sophomore year probably looked like a lateral year for his progression. However, Harvard was not a high scoring team last season and Miller actually led them in scoring in his second go-round in the NCAA. Yes, Miller is small, but he’s a highly intelligent player. Will the lack of a true standout athletic or skill-based quality hurt his chances of being a solid pro? It will likely be at least another season before we know.

15. Ty Voit

Expectations were sky high for Voit last season, coming off a breakout performance with OHL Sarnia. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury wiped out pretty much his entire pro debut. That means this season will essentially serve as his introduction to pro hockey. Voit’s not big, but he’s quick and a dynamic playmaker. If he bounces back, he’ll move up this list considerably next time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subscribers can link to the full top 200 listing here

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

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

Risers

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

Logan Stankoven (27 to 5) - Dallas Stars

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

Ryan Leonard (32 to 6) – Washington Capitals

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

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

Josh Roy (63 to 35) – Montreal Canadiens

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

Conor Geekie (68 to 18) – Utah

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

Mavrik Bourque (79 to 23) – Dallas Stars

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

Gabe Perreault (86 to 19) – New York Rangers

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

Bradly Nadeau (109 to 34) – Carolina Hurricanes

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

Jagger Firkus (112 to 47) – Seattle Kraken

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

Gavin Brindley (122 to 66) – Columbus Blue Jackets

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

Quentin Musty (125 to 51) – San Jose Sharks

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

Jani Nyman (135 to 81) – Seattle Kraken

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

Logan Mailloux (145 to 45) – Montreal Canadiens

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

Josh Doan (153 to 55) - Utah

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

Riley Heidt (157 to 44) – Minnesota Wild

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

Ville Koivunen (165 to 71) – Pittsburgh Penguins

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

Ethan Del Mastro (169 to 73) – Chicago Blackhawks

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

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

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

Carson Rehkopf (201 to 69) – Seattle Kraken

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

Easton Cowan (204 to 67) – Toronto Maple Leafs

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

Seamus Casey (214 to 63) – New Jersey Devils

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

Jacob Fowler (222 to 52) – Montreal Canadiens

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

Fraser Minten (226 to 84) – Toronto Maple Leafs

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

Jackson Blake (277 to 117) – Carolina Hurricanes

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

Erik Portillo (Unranked to 118) – Los Angeles Kings

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

Rodwin Dionicio (Unranked to 139) – Anaheim Ducks

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

Fallers

EDM - Xavier Bourgault

Xavier Bourgault (from 48 to 113) – Edmonton Oilers

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

Eduard Sale (72 to 140) – Seattle Kraken

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

Jack Rathbone (96 to not ranked) – Pittsburgh Penguins

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

Jacob Perreault (127 to not ranked) – Montreal Canadiens

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

Jan Jenik (156 to not ranked) - Utah

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

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

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #25 Toronto Maple Leafs – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Player Profiles - Brock Otten, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:55:55 +0000

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 07: Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Easton Cowan (53) and Detroit Red Wings Right Wing Lucas Raymond (23) in action during the game between Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings on October 7, 2023 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI (Photo by Allan Dranberg/Icon Sportswire)

Another first round playoff loss has Leafs Nation calling for heads and an offseason of change. The inability of the so-called ‘core four’ to move the playoff needle while in their prime, while commanding 53.8% of the Leafs cap space ($46,653,000), is under a glaring spotlight. If you add Morgan Reilly on defense at $7.5 million, you are at 62.4% of your cap, and clearly not much room to add around the edges. Depth has been an issue for years, particularly on defense and in goal. With all five players having full no-movement clauses, GM Treliving’s hands are largely tied. So, the first head to roll was coach Sheldon Keefe, replaced by veteran coach Craig Berube. This will be Treliving’s second summer as GM and he has not been afraid to pull the trigger on a blockbuster in his past career. Both John Tavares and Mitch Marner are free agents after next season, and it will take all his ingenuity to get something done before then.

Under both Kyle Dubas and Brad Treliving, the Leafs have been active in adding firepower for youth and picks for a number of years. Last year’s first round pick Easton Cowan (28th) was one of only two first round picks in the last five seasons. He enjoyed a remarkable year, including a 42-game point scoring streak, and is looking like a steal if he continues the same trajectory. They graduated Nicholas Robertson (53rd, 109) and Matthew Knies (57th, 2021) out of the last five drafts, so the scouting staff and development team have had some successes despite a dearth of picks. The team has already moved multiple picks but retain their first for the coming year. Brendan Shanahan has a brand-new boss in Keith Pelley, CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, who may not grant the same patience the Shanaplan has received in the past. Expect change.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Easton Cowan	RW	18	5-10/170	London (OHL)	`23(28th)	54	34	62	96	64
2	Fraser Minten	C	19	6-1/185	Kam-Sas (WHL)	`22(38th)	43	22	26	48	25
					Toronto (NHL)	`22(38th)	4	0	0	0	2
3	Topi Niemela	D	22	5-11/165	Toronto (AHL)	`20(64th)	68	8	31	39	43
4	Dennis Hildeby	G	22	6-5/210	Toronto (AHL)	`22(122nd)	41	21	11	2.41	0.913
5	Nikita Grebyonkin	RW	20	6-2/185	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	`22(135th)	67	19	22	41	17
6	Alex Steeves	C	24	5-11/185	Toronto (AHL)	FA(3/21)	65	27	30	57	26
7	Nick Abruzzese	C	24	5-10/175	Toronto (AHL)	`19(124th)	71	16	36	52	24
8	Ryan Tverberg	C	22	6-0/190	Toronto (AHL)	`20(213th)	46	9	23	32	18
9	Roni Hirvonen	C	22	5-9/175	Toronto (AHL)	`20(59th)	37	7	6	13	8
10	Noah Chadwick	D	18	6-3/185	Lethbridge (WHL)	`23(185th)	66	12	44	56	24
11	Nicholas Moldenhauer	C	19	5-10/170	Michigan (B1G)	`22(95th)	41	8	13	21	2
12	Artur Akhtyamov	G	22	6-2/170	Neftyanik Almetievsk (VHL)	`20(106th)	19	10	5	2.00	0.927
					Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)	`20(106th)	17	6	7	2.51	0.921
13	Veeti Miettinen	RW	22	5-9/160	St. Cloud State (NCHC)	`20(168th)	37	20	15	35	0
14	Joe Miller	C	21	5-8/150	Harvard (ECAC)	`20(180th)	32	13	14	27	8
15	Ty Voit	C	20	5-9/160	Newfoundland (ECHL)	`21(153rd)	5	2	6	8	0

1. Easton Cowan, RW, London Knights (OHL)

42 games. That’s the number of games in a row that Easton Cowan has registered a point in the OHL, ending in the second round of the playoffs. Ending just short of the CHL record held by Alex Radulov (50 games). He has gone from being an overdraft in the eyes of the media and the fan base, to someone Leafs’ fans are extremely excited about in a matter of a calendar year. With improvements made to his puck skill, playmaking touch, and strength on the puck, he has managed to alter the perception of his NHL projection. He’s still got a solid floor because of his high-end skating ability, two-way effectiveness, and great motor, however with the improvements made to his on puck play, he’s become a potential top six forward down the line. It would be fair to say that few prospects in the NHL have improved their fortune more than Cowan has this season.

2. Fraser Minten, C, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

The former 38th overall pick started the year in Toronto after a terrific training camp, but he was returned to the WHL after only a few games. This was best for his development as he needed to continue to improve his on puck play and offensive production. The captain of this year’s Canadian WJC team, he likely doesn’t have significant offensive upside at the NHL level. He plays a pretty simple game; get to the net and get pucks in deep. He’s not a dynamic skater. He’s not a dynamic handler. However, he has a clear understanding of how he needs to play in order to be successful. He does project as a high-end third line player who can play the kind of heavy game that has been lacking in the playoffs for the Maple Leafs in recent seasons. For that reason, Toronto fans should be excited about the possibility of him taking up a permanent spot in the lineup in the near future.

3. Topi Niemela, D, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

After a stagnant development year in Liiga last year, Toronto couldn’t wait to get Niemela over to North America this year so that they could get him the kind of ice time and responsibility that they wanted for him. Undoubtedly the top defensive prospect in the Leafs’ system, he has rewarded this confidence in his abilities with a very strong rookie year with the Marlies. Not only has his offensive game translated seamlessly thanks to his high-end mobility and vision, but he’s been better defensively than anticipated. He’s defended small areas well with more intensity than previously shown and he’s adjusted to the small ice well from a decision-making standpoint. Nestled tight to the salary cap, one would have to believe that Niemela could be given an opportunity to replace pending UFA T. J. Brodie next season on the Leafs’ roster. He is a potential top four defender.

4. Dennis Hildeby, G, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

The massive Swedish netminders’ first pro season in North America has to be considered a big (no pun intended) success. He was excellent as the starter for the Marlies, posting a save percentage above .910 and showing terrific consistency for a younger netminder without a ton of pro experience. We quickly forget how meteoric Hildeby’s rise has been. A classic late bloomer, he’s only got a season as an SHL back-up and now a season as an AHL starter under his belt, at 22, turning 23. However, the marked improvement of his athleticism and quickness helped unlock his potential and now has the appearance of a possible NHL netminder. Even with Samsonov and Martin Jones coming off the books, one would assume that Toronto would like to see him play another full year in the AHL next season. Joseph Woll would have the inside track at a spot and the team likely signs/trades for a veteran to work with him. Either way, Leafs brass must be ecstatic with Hildeby’s development.

5. Nikita Grebyonkin, RW, Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)

The Leafs have signed Nikita Grebyonkin to a three-year, entry level deal and he will be making the jump to North America next season. This is huge for the Leafs getting him into the fold after a breakout KHL season at 21-years-old. Armed with high end offensive tools, an argument could be made that Grebyonkin possesses the highest upside of any forward in the system. He’s a dynamic transitional attacker because of his speed and handling ability; he routinely takes on defenders one on one and wins. Over the last two seasons in the KHL, he’s managed to fill out his 6’ 2” frame and it’s helped him be more consistent off the puck and when fighting through contact against pro sized defenders. This bodes well for his adjustment to the AHL level next year.

6. Alex Steeves, C, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

It’s now or never for Steeves in the Maple Leafs’ organization. The 25-year-old has continued to improve in the AHL and has been one of the Marlies’ best players. He’s ready to show that he can be a full time NHL player. A pending RFA, it seems inevitable that he will be given a qualifying offer in hopes that he can battle for a depth role next year. He has continued to improve his skating and pace of play, and his versatility as an effective player, on and off the puck, makes him an ideal candidate for a bottom six role in today’s NHL. The issue is that Toronto has built up terrific depth there, especially with the acquisition of Connor Dewar and the emergence of Bobby McCann. No longer waiver exempt, it seems like that Steeves will be given a shot in another organization should he fail to crack Toronto’s roster next year.

7. Nick Abruzzese, C, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

It was another good season for the former Harvard captain, his second full pro year. He led the Marlies in assists and continued to improve his strength on the puck, critical for a somewhat undersized forward with his vision and playmaking ability. Abruzzese is a high IQ player, one of, if not the smartest player in the Leafs’ system. He understands how to control the pace of the game and he works hard to earn touches; it’s cliche but he plays bigger than he looks. Due to Toronto’s depth at forward, he didn’t get a look this year despite a few cups of coffee in previous seasons. That should not be taken as a slight. He’s still very much in Toronto’s plans moving forward. However, much like Alex Steeves, Abruzzese is not exempt from waivers next year. That means that he’ll be in the mix for a bottom six roster spot like several others. Is he a trade candidate?

8. Ryan Tverberg, C, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

Injuries have not been kind to the former UConn Husky as he has started his pro career in Toronto’s system. When he’s been on the ice, Tverberg has played well. His speed, tenacity, and strong two-way approach have transferred well. He’s still very much on track to become a quality bottom six, penalty killing anchor for the Leafs in the future. However, lower body and upper body injuries have limited him to a half year with the Marlies. The focus next year will simply be on staying healthy, while continuing to be a valued contributor to the Marlies. Toronto’s AHL club should look totally different next year with so many players in flux with the organization. That could clear a path for Tverberg to take on a critical AHL role, which would be outstanding for his development.

9. Roni Hirvonen, C, Toronto Marlies (AHL)

Speaking of injuries, Hirvonen is lucky to still be playing after a scary eye injury at the beginning of the year. Narrowly avoiding disaster, Hirvonen returned halfway through the year to a depth role on the Marlies. The team’s former second round pick showed flashes of being a quality two-way forward in limited action. He is best described as one of those jack-of-all-trades types. He’s not elite in any category, but his well-rounded skill set, and high IQ make him a potential middle six type in the future. Much like Tverberg, Hirvonen stands to earn more ice time with the Marlies next year and that will be a positive thing for his development. There’s a need to add strength to his undersized frame to help him be stronger on pucks and be an even more effective two-way option.

10. Noah Chadwick, D, Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL)

Without a doubt, Chadwick was one of the WHL’s breakout players this season with Lethbridge. He went from being a sixth round long shot (in 2023) to one of the WHL’s top defenders in a matter of a single season. One of the reasons for that has been an uptick in usage. He has taken over as the top powerplay quarterback and has done a very good job running that unit, even if Lethbridge’s powerplay was one of the weaker statistically this season. Another reason has been the improvements made to his skating. He’s improved his carrying ability and his confidence with the puck, which has in turn made him a standout at both ends in his draft year plus one. The next steps? Skating still needs to improve overall. He can still struggle with his agility and overall footwork, even if he’s a standout rush defender. I’m sure the Leafs would like to see him use his size more consistently too, to be a physical standout in the defensive end.

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

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – Risers and Fallers

Brock Otten — Mon, 27 May 2024 19:22:48 +0000