[04-May-2026 15:31:54 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Class 'WP_Widget' not found in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/widgets/mckeens_news_feed_widget.php:3 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/widgets/mckeens_news_feed_widget.php on line 3 [04-May-2026 15:31:55 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Class 'WP_Widget' not found in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/widgets/mckeens_sidebar_menu_widget.php:3 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/widgets/mckeens_sidebar_menu_widget.php on line 3 [04-May-2026 15:31:45 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function add_action() in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_display_editorials.php:22 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_display_editorials.php on line 22 [04-May-2026 15:31:46 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function add_action() in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_display_tabs.php:50 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_display_tabs.php on line 50 [04-May-2026 15:31:47 UTC] PHP Fatal error: Uncaught Error: Call to undefined function add_action() in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_heading.php:15 Stack trace: #0 {main} thrown in /home/mckeens/public_html/wp-content/themes/understrap-child/inc/shortcodes/mckeens_heading.php on line 15 Eddie Genborg – McKeen's Hockey https://www.mckeenshockey.com The Essential Hockey Annual Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:04:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT: Top 200 NHL Affiliated Prospects – Biggest Risers and Fallers https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/mckeens-2026-nhl-prospect-report-top-200-nhl-affiliated-prospects-biggest-risers-fallers/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/mckeens-2026-nhl-prospect-report-top-200-nhl-affiliated-prospects-biggest-risers-fallers/#respond Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:00:37 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=199958 Read More... from MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT: Top 200 NHL Affiliated Prospects – Biggest Risers and Fallers

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Comparing the current ranking of prospects in our report to their previous ranking in our summer yearbook (which is a top 300), these are the affiliated prospects who have improved their stock the most this season.

Adam Jiricek

Adam Jiricek (STL)

Previous Ranking: 97, New Ranking: 24

Jiricek’s first year in North America (in the OHL) was all about adjustment and injury recovery. Now fully healthy, he’s been among the OHL’s best defenders and was named the top defenceman at this year’s WJC’s.

Harrison Brunicke (PIT)

Previous Ranking: 178, New Ranking: 25

Started the year in the NHL with Pittsburgh before being sent back to the WHL post WJC’s. Brunicke is really figuring out how to get the best out of his vast athletic potential.

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 22: Nick Lardis #76 of the Chicago Blackhawks controls the puck during a game against the Nashville Predators on March 22, 2026 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire)

Nick Lardis (CHI)

Previous Ranking: 102, New Ranking: 26

There was definitely some concern about how Lardis’ skill set would translate to the pro level given his frame. However, he’s been an immediate impact player and is rocketing up Chicago’s depth chart.

Alexander Zharovsky (MTL)

Previous Ranking: 222, New Ranking: 31

Talk about a breakout. Zharovsky took the KHL by storm in his draft plus one year. We knew he had among the highest upside of any forward in last year’s draft due to his creativity and skill, but we didn’t expect him to be fulfilling it so quickly.

Matvei Gridin (CGY)

Previous Ranking: 150, New Ranking: 43

Gridin was viewed as a boom or bust prospect who needed to round out his game to be a successful pro. He’s been terrific in the AHL as a rookie and has adjusted to the pro game way quicker than many expected.

Roman Kantserov (CHI)

Previous Ranking: 136, New Ranking: 47

Kantserov just continues to get better and has emerged as the best offensive player in the KHL. While the recent track record for KHL to NHL success is bleak, Kantserov has to be ranked highly because of the upside he possesses.

Will Horcoff (PIT)

Previous Ranking: 175, New Ranking: 60

Even if the offensive production decreased post World Juniors, Horcoff still had a tremendous year that saw him emerge as one of the most dangerous players in college hockey between the dots.

Vaclav Nestrasil (CHI)

Previous Ranking: 196, New Ranking: 68

Nestrasil was one of the better freshmen in the NCAA this year with UMass. He just keeps getting better and better and with his frame and IQ, he seems like a safe bet to be a quality NHL player so long as his skating continues to improve.

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 21: Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Sergei Murashov (1) makes a save during the third period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Minnesota Wild on November 21, 2025, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Sergei Murashov (PIT)

Previous Ranking: 181, New Ranking: 73

Murashov’s growth in his second year in North America has been prolific. He’s been lights out in the AHL and even earned a cup of coffee in the NHL. The future starter for the Penguins in all likelihood.

Stephen Halliday (OTT)

Previous Ranking: 207, New Ranking: 85

Has there been a prospect in hockey more annually underrated than Halliday? He’s the USHL all time leading scorer. He was great in college. He was great in the AHL. And he’s been great in limited NHL action.

Charlie Stramel (MIN)

Previous Ranking: 263, New Ranking: 87

We all owe Stramel an apology for writing him off so early after he initially struggled at Wisconsin. He was one of the best players in college hockey this season for Michigan State and is back on track to be a quality NHL player.

Max Plante (DET)

Previous Ranking: 197, New Ranking: 90

Plante was great as a freshman at UMD, but he was even better as a sophomore, emerging as one of the NCAA’s best forwards and this year’s Hobey Baker winner.

Dean Letourneau (BOS)

Previous Ranking: 254, New Ranking: 96

What a difference a year can make. Letourneau was always going to be a long-term project, but he was written off by many after a rough freshman year. This year, he was one of BC’s best and most consistent players.

Benjamin Rautiainen (TB)

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked, New Ranking: 97

You might be asking yourself how the Lightning keep finding these guys to help keep them relevant. Rautiainen has exploded to be the top player in Liiga, a year after being drafted in the fourth round.

Eddie Genborg (DET)

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked, New Ranking: 102

Drafted for his physical approach, Genborg has improved his on puck play significantly and was an impact player in the SHL this year.

Comparing the current ranking of prospects in our report to their previous ranking in our summer yearbook (which is a top 300), these are the affiliated prospects who have seen their stock fall the most this season.

Mikhail Gulyayev (COL)

Previous Ranking: 62, New Ranking: 147

While the KHL can be tough on young defenders, we keep waiting for Gulyayev’s breakout to happen. Instead, he’s had a regression this year and that has to be concerning to the Avalanche.

Sam Colangelo (ANA)

Previous Ranking: 84, New Ranking: Not Ranked

The only player to go from being ranked inside of our top 100 to being not ranked (outside of our top 200). Colangelo just hasn’t been able to get over the hump and establish himself as an NHL player.

Brennan Othmann (CGY)

Previous Ranking: 90, New Ranking: 177

His third pro season was supposed to be a breakout year for him, where he would finally establish himself as an NHL player. Instead, he’s had his worst year statistically and found himself in a new organization after a trade to Calgary.

Carson Rehkopf (SEA)

Previous Ranking: 106, New Ranking: Not Ranked

Rehkopf had a pretty stagnant year in the OHL last year, but there was some hope that he could turn things around as a first year pro. Instead, a lack of consistency continues to plague him.

Joshua Roy (MTL)

Previous Ranking: 108, New Ranking: 198

It’s starting to look like Roy’s NHL future may come with another organization. He’s seen himself passed by other forward prospects for a role in Montreal and his AHL production has stagnated.

MCKEEN'S HOCKEY TOP 200 NHL-AFFILIATED PROSPECTS

RNK PLAYER NHL POS AGE HT/WT TM GP G(W) A(L) PTS(GAA) PIM(SPCT)
1 Michael Misa SJ C 19 6-1/185 San Jose (NHL) 45 9 12 21 10
2 Porter Martone Phi RW 19 6-3/205 Michigan State (NCAA) 35 25 25 50 78
3 Anton Frondell Chi C 19 6-2/205 Djurgardens (SHL) 43 20 8 28 16
4 Caleb Desnoyers Uta C 19 6-2/180 Moncton (QMJHL) 45 22 56 78 36
5 Zayne Parekh Cgy D 20 6-0/180 Calgary (NHL) 37 4 5 9 8
6 Brady Martin Nsh C 19 6-0/185 Soo Greyhounds (OHL) 24 8 16 24 37
7 Daniil But Uta LW 21 6-6/215 Utah (NHL) 29 3 4 7 8
8 Dmitri Simashev Uta D 21 6-5/200 Utah (NHL) 28 0 1 1 23
9 Jacob Fowler Mtl G 21 6-1/215 Laval (AHL) 27 19 7 2.23 0.916
10 Sebastian Cossa Det G 23 6-6/230 Grand Rapids (AHL) 39 26 8 2.33 0.915
11 Bradly Nadeau Car LW 21 5-11/170 Chicago (AHL) 52 27 29 56 24
12 Jake O'Brien Sea C 18 6-2/175 Brantford (OHL) 53 28 65 93 28
13 Tij Iginla Uta C 19 6-0/190 Kelowna (WHL) 48 41 49 90 29
14 Radim Mrtka Buf D 18 6-6/220 Seattle (WHL) 43 1 33 34 38
15 Igor Chernyshov SJ LW 20 6-2/190 San Jose (NHL) 28 9 10 19 6
16 Cole Hutson Wsh D 19 5-10/165 Boston University (NCAA) 35 10 22 32 26
17 James Hagens Bos C 19 5-11/195 Boston College (NCAA) 34 23 24 47 24
18 Konsta Helenius Buf C 20 5-11/190 Rochester (AHL) 63 21 41 62 22
19 Michael Hage Mtl C 20 6-1/190 Michigan (NCAA) 39 13 39 52 14
20 Roger McQueen Ana C 19 6-6/195 Providence (NCAA) 36 11 16 27 45
21 Gabe Perreault NYR LW 21 5-11/180 NY Rangers (NHL) 49 12 15 27 10
22 Sam Rinzel Chi D 21 6-4/180 Chicago (NHL) 54 4 10 14 44
23 Carter Yakemchuk Ott D 20 6-3/210 Belleville (AHL) 54 10 30 40 36
24 Adam Jiricek StL D 19 6-2/180 Brantford (OHL) 55 19 40 59 33
25 Harrison Brunicke Pit D 20 6-3/195 Kamloops (WHL) 24 2 22 24 20
26 Nick Lardis Chi LW 20 5-11/165 Chicago (NHL) 41 10 5 15 10
27 Nate Danielson Det C 21 6-2/185 Detroit (NHL) 28 2 5 7 4
28 Yegor Surin Nsh C 19 6-1/190 Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL) 57 15 22 37 43
29 Braeden Cootes Van C 19 6-0/185 Sea-PA (WHL) 45 24 39 63 8
30 Jackson Smith CBJ D 19 6-4/200 Penn State (NCAA) 35 11 15 26 40
31 Alexander Zharovsky Mtl RW 19 6-1/165 Salavat Yulaev Ufa (KHL) 59 16 26 42 38
32 Victor Eklund NYI RW 19 5-11/170 Djurgardens (SHL) 43 6 18 24 22
33 Jonathan Lekkerimaki Van RW 21 5-11/170 Abbotsford (AHL) 21 13 7 20 8
34 Scott Morrow NYR D 23 6-2/210 NY Rangers (NHL) 29 0 6 6 4
35 Kashawn Aitcheson NYI D 19 6-2/200 Barrie (OHL) 56 28 42 70 97
36 Liam Greentree NYR RW 20 6-3/215 Windsor (OHL) 52 38 36 74 63
37 Tanner Molendyk Nsh D 21 5-11/185 Milwaukee (AHL) 60 4 19 23 14
38 Justin Carbonneau StL RW 19 6-2/205 Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) 60 51 29 80 64
39 Ilya Protas Wsh LW 19 6-3/185 Hershey (AHL) 69 29 37 66 40
40 Cole Reschny Cgy C 19 5-11/185 North Dakota (NCAA) 36 6 29 35 22
41 Anton Silayev NJ D 20 6-7/210 Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL) 61 1 2 3 10
42 Rutger McGroarty Pit LW 22 6-1/200 Pittsburgh (NHL) 24 3 3 6 4
43 Matvei Gridin Cgy RW 20 6-2/190 Calgary (NHL) 37 6 14 20 2
44 Isak Rosen Wpg RW 23 6-0/175 Buf-Wpg (NHL) 37 6 4 10 0
45 Cole Eiserman NYI LW 19 6-0/195 Boston University (NCAA) 32 18 10 28 14
46 Andrew Cristall Wsh LW 21 5-9/165 Hershey (AHL) 72 20 40 60 24
47 Roman Kantserov Chi RW 21 5-9/175 Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL) 63 36 28 64 57
48 Jani Nyman Sea RW 21 6-3/215 Seattle (NHL) 28 4 3 7 6
49 Michael Brandsegg-Nygard Det RW 20 6-1/205 Grand Rapids (AHL) 60 20 24 44 42
50 Quentin Musty SJ LW 20 6-2/200 San Jose (AHL) 61 21 24 45 46
51 Jett Luchanko Phi C 19 5-11/185 Gue-Bfd (OHL) 38 7 36 43 34
52 Cayden Lindstrom CBJ C 20 6-3/215 Michigan State (NCAA) 31 3 7 10 94
53 Trevor Connelly VGK LW 20 6-1/160 Henderson (AHL) 46 14 35 49 18
54 Jagger Firkus Sea RW 22 5-11/160 Coachella Valley (AHL) 63 21 35 56 18
55 Isaac Howard Edm LW 22 5-11/190 Bakersfield (AHL) 47 24 26 50 12
56 Lynden Lakovic Wsh LW 19 6-4/200 Moose Jaw (WHL) 22 18 11 29 8
57 David Reinbacher Mtl D 21 6-2/185 Laval (AHL) 57 5 19 24 56
58 Trey Augustine Det G 21 6-1/195 Michigan State (NCAA) 34 24 9 2.11 0.929
59 Yegor Zavragin Phi G 20 6-2/185 SKA St. Petersburg (KHL) 12 5 7 2.63 0.919
60 Will Horcoff Pit C 19 6-5/200 Michigan (NCAA) 40 25 14 39 64
61 Reid Schaefer Nsh LW 22 6-3/215 Nashville (NHL) 47 6 2 8 17
62 Sam O'Reilly TB C 20 6-1/190 Ldn-Kit (OHL) 56 29 42 71 22
63 Otto Stenberg StL C 21 5-11/180 St. Louis (NHL) 32 3 7 10 5
64 Brayden Yager Wpg C 21 6-0/180 Manitoba (AHL) 68 10 20 30 10
65 Joshua Ravensbergen SJ G 19 6-6/190 Prince George (WHL) 46 32 13 2.51 0.919
66 Cole Beaudoin Uta C 20 6-2/210 Barrie (OHL) 54 33 56 89 29
67 Michael Hrabal Uta G 21 6-7/215 Massachusetts (NCAA) 29 19 9 1.95 0.937
68 Vaclav Nestrasil Chi RW 19 6-6/185 Massachusetts (NCAA) 34 13 18 31 8
69 Stian Solberg Ana D 20 6-2/205 San Diego (AHL) 71 12 12 24 102
70 Maveric Lamoureux Uta D 22 6-7/215 Tucson (AHL) 65 5 15 20 75
71 Sascha Boumedienne Wpg D 19 6-2/185 Boston University (NCAA) 35 2 8 10 14
72 Adam Engstrom Mtl D 22 6-2/185 Laval (AHL) 45 10 24 34 18
73 Sergei Murashov Pit G 22 6-0/170 Wilkes-Barre (AHL) 38 24 9 2.20 0.919
74 Owen Pickering Pit D 22 6-4/180 Wilkes-Barre (AHL) 68 7 21 28 28
75 Pyotr Andreyanov CBJ G 19 6-0/205 Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL) 26 13 8 2.59 0.919
76 Elias Salomonsson Wpg D 21 6-1/185 Winnipeg (NHL) 32 1 4 5 12
77 Shakir Mukhamadullin SJ D 24 6-4/200 San Jose (NHL) 50 5 7 12 22
78 Tristan Luneau Ana D 22 6-1/195 San Diego (AHL) 70 10 31 41 29
79 Carter Bear Det LW 19 6-0/180 Everett (WHL) 53 36 41 77 56
80 Filip Bystedt SJ C 22 6-4/205 San Jose (AHL) 65 22 38 60 22
81 Sacha Boisvert Chi C 20 6-3/190 Boston University (NCAA) 26 3 14 17 28
82 Julius Miettinen Sea C 20 6-3/200 Everett (WHL) 52 35 41 76 29
83 Theo Lindstein StL D 21 6-0/180 Springfield (AHL) 59 6 8 14 18
84 Cullen Potter Cgy C 19 5-10/170 Arizona State (NCAA) 24 12 14 26 16
85 Stephen Halliday Ott C 23 6-4/210 Ottawa (NHL) 30 4 7 11 2
86 Marek Vanacker Chi LW 20 6-0/175 Brantford (OHL) 60 47 35 82 33
87 Charlie Stramel Min C 21 6-3/215 Michigan State (NCAA) 37 19 25 44 32
88 Alex Bump Phi LW 22 6-0/195 Lehigh Valley (AHL) 36 11 15 26 22
89 Oscar Fisker Molgaard Sea C 21 6-0/165 Coachella Valley (AHL) 49 10 24 34 12
90 Max Plante Det LW 20 5-11/175 Minnesota Duluth (NCAA) 40 25 27 52 23
91 Seamus Casey NJ D 22 5-10/165 Utica (AHL) 29 1 18 19 13
92 Jack Nesbitt Phi C 19 6-5/185 Windsor (OHL) 55 25 33 58 67
93 Mikhail Yegorov NJ G 20 6-5/190 Boston University (NCAA) 35 16 15 2.73 0.904
94 Luca Del Bel Belluz CBJ C 22 6-1/185 Cleveland (AHL) 55 22 36 58 2
95 Ilya Nabokov Col G 23 6-0/180 Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL) 38 22 7 2.74 0.901
96 Dean Letourneau Bos C 20 6-7/215 Boston College (NCAA) 36 22 17 39 22
97 Benjamin Rautiainen TB C 20 6-0/175 Tappara (Fin-Liiga) 59 25 52 77 20
98 Drew Commesso Chi G 23 6-2/180 Rockford (AHL) 37 13 20 3.08 0.901
99 Bill Zonnon Pit RW 19 6-2/185 Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) 35 14 32 46 6
100 Riley Heidt Min C 21 5-10/180 Iowa (AHL) 71 8 17 25 38
101 Juraj Pekarcik StL LW 20 6-2/185 Springfield (AHL) 69 11 24 35 10
102 Eddie Genborg Det RW 19 6-2/205 Timra (SHL) 43 9 16 25 24
103 Owen Beck Mtl C 22 5-11/185 Laval (AHL) 58 13 20 33 28
104 Oliver Bonk Phi D 21 6-2/195 Lehigh Valley (AHL) 46 6 13 19 22
105 Luca Cagnoni SJ D 21 5-9/180 San Jose (AHL) 67 8 35 43 22
106 Cameron Reid Nsh D 19 6-0/190 Kitchener (OHL) 57 15 41 56 29
107 Eric Pohlkamp SJ D 22 5-11/205 Denver (NCAA) 43 18 21 39 33
108 Lenni Hameenaho NJ RW 21 6-0/175 New Jersey (NHL) 33 2 6 8 14
109 Felix Unger Sorum Car RW 20 5-11/170 Chicago (AHL) 72 17 49 66 20
110 Milton Gastrin Wsh C 18 6-1/195 MoDo Hockey (Allsvenskan) 39 10 14 24 4
111 Carter George LA G 20 6-1/195 OS-Soo (OHL) 46 23 17 2.73 0.907
112 Samuel Honzek Cgy LW 21 6-4/185 Calgary (NHL) 18 2 2 4 2
113 Dmitri Buchelnikov StL LW 22 5-10/170 CSKA Moskva (KHL) 44 14 11 25 10
114 Ryker Lee Nsh RW 19 6-1/185 Michigan State (NCAA) 35 15 15 30 26
115 Hunter Brzustewicz Cgy D 21 5-11/185 Calgary (NHL) 34 2 5 7 4
116 Terik Parascak Wsh RW 20 6-0/180 Prince George (WHL) 61 33 46 79 53
117 EJ Emery NYR D 20 6-3/185 North Dakota (NCAA) 38 3 10 13 32
118 Logan Hensler Ott D 19 6-3/195 Wisconsin (NCAA) 23 4 8 12 20
119 Emil Hemming Dal RW 19 6-1/205 Barrie (OHL) 46 26 37 63 22
120 Blake Fiddler Sea D 18 6-5/220 Edmonton (WHL) 63 11 25 36 38
121 Jakob Ihs Wozniak VGK RW 19 6-3/190 Bjorkloven (Allsvenskan) 36 9 14 23 12
122 Cameron Lund SJ C 21 6-2/195 San Jose (AHL) 37 9 16 25 12
123 Ville Koivunen Pit LW 22 6-0/175 Pittsburgh (NHL) 39 2 5 7 10
124 Artyom Duda Uta D 22 6-1/185 Tucson (AHL) 27 2 11 13 22
125 Ivan Miroshnichenko Wsh LW 22 6-1/185 Hershey (AHL) 41 14 20 34 47
126 Gracyn Sawchyn Fla C 21 5-11/160 Charlotte (AHL) 35 6 17 23 12
127 Jack Ivankovic Nsh G 19 6-0/175 Michigan (NCAA) 35 25 8 2.15 0.921
128 Denver Barkey Phi C 21 5-8/160 Philadelphia (NHL) 43 5 12 17 16
129 Bryce Pickford Mtl D 20 6-1/185 Medicine Hat (WHL) 55 45 38 83 56
130 Leo Sahlin Wallenius SJ D 20 6-0/180 Vaxjo Lakers (SHL) 32 3 10 13 14
131 Niklas Kokko Sea G 22 6-3/185 Coachella Valley (AHL) 35 19 10 3.13 0.901
132 Kieron Walton Wpg C 20 6-6/210 Sby-Pbo (OHL) 62 40 48 88 26
133 Ryan Ufko Nsh D 23 5-10/180 Milwaukee (AHL) 52 11 33 44 20
134 Tarin Smith Ana D 20 6-1/185 Everett (WHL) 65 16 55 71 98
135 Semyon Vyazovoy Sea G 23 6-2/170 Salavat Yulayev Ufa (Rus) 53 27 18 2.13 0.931
136 Anton Wahlberg Buf C 20 6-3/195 Rochester (AHL) 68 9 29 38 20
137 Tyson Jugnauth Sea D 22 5-11/170 Coachella Valley (AHL) 72 9 36 45 44
138 David Edstrom Nsh C 21 6-3/185 Milwaukee (AHL) 53 8 14 22 28
139 David Spacek Min D 23 5-11/175 Iowa (AHL) 59 7 29 36 16
140 Carl Lindbom VGK G 23 6-1/165 Henderson (AHL) 35 24 5 2.16 0.926
141 Brad Lambert Wpg C 22 6-0/180 Winnipeg (NHL) 25 3 3 6 6
142 Amadeus Lombardi Det C 22 5-10/165 Grand Rapids (AHL) 47 16 26 42 22
143 Ethan Gauthier TB RW 21 5-11/175 Syracuse (AHL) 56 12 15 27 10
144 Henry Mews Cgy D 20 6-0/190 Michigan (NCAA) 10 0 9 9 6
145 Eric Nilson Ana C 19 6-0/165 Michigan State (NCAA) 35 3 8 11 41
146 Ben Danford Tor D 20 6-1/190 Osh-Bfd (OHL) 45 3 17 20 13
147 Mikhail Gulyayev Col D 21 5-11/170 Avangard Omsk (KHL) 54 1 2 3 14
148 Henry Brzustewicz LA D 19 6-2/200 London (OHL) 59 19 35 54 57
149 Joakim Kemell Nsh RW 22 5-10/185 Milwaukee (AHL) 48 10 19 29 56
150 Danny Nelson NYI C 20 6-3/200 Notre Dame (NCAA) 36 13 16 29 32
151 Luca Marrelli CBJ D 20 6-2/185 Cleveland (AHL) 32 4 12 16 10
152 Dylan Duke TB LW 23 5-10/180 Syracuse (AHL) 72 32 27 59 42
153 Jack Devine Fla RW 22 5-11/175 Charlotte (AHL) 63 18 25 43 57
154 Daniil Prokhorov NYI RW 19 6-6/220 Dynamo Moskva (KHL) 23 1 0 1 2
155 William Zellers Bos LW 20 6-0/180 North Dakota (NCAA) 38 18 16 34 29
156 Ethan Wyttenbach Cgy LW 19 5-10/180 Quinnipiac (NCAA) 40 25 34 59 20
157 Eduard Sale Sea LW 21 6-1/170 Coachella Valley (AHL) 58 13 14 27 14
158 Dmitry Gamzin NYI G 23 6-3/175 CSKA Moskva (KHL) 40 22 10 1.49 0.938
159 Kasper Halttunen SJ RW 20 6-3/205 San Jose (AHL) 69 16 19 35 45
160 Lukas Fischer StL D 19 6-3/180 Sar-Soo (OHL) 65 8 36 44 88
161 Semyon Frolov Car G 19 6-3/200 MHK Spartak Moskva (MHL) 7 4 1 1.83 0.929
162 Fabian Lysell Bos RW 23 5-11/180 Providence (AHL) 57 17 25 42 51
163 Mason West Chi C 18 6-7/220 Fargo (USHL) 38 10 15 25 12
164 Shane Vansaghi Phi RW 19 6-3/210 Michigan State (NCAA) 35 4 7 11 28
165 Dominik Badinka Car D 20 6-3/185 Chicago (AHL) 68 6 8 14 16
166 Lucas Pettersson Ana C 20 6-0/175 Brynas (SHL) 41 10 10 20 0
167 Sawyer Mynio Van D 21 6-1/175 Abbotsford (AHL) 58 3 18 21 42
168 Lukas Cormier VGK D 24 5-11/190 Henderson (AHL) 49 8 39 47 32
169 Quinn Hutson Edm RW 24 5-10/170 Bakersfield (AHL) 67 30 33 63 84
170 Vojtech Cihar LA LW 19 6-1/180 Kelowna (WHL) 31 12 19 31 14
171 Heikki Ruohonen Phi C 19 6-1/205 Harvard (NCAA) 28 6 13 19 18
172 Tristan Broz Pit C 23 6-0/180 Wilkes-Barre (AHL) 47 16 23 39 41
173 Maksymilian Szuber Uta D 23 6-3/190 Tucson (AHL) 65 11 16 27 67
174 Kirill Kudryavtsev Van D 22 5-11/200 Abbotsford (AHL) 44 2 18 20 4
175 Adam Gajan Chi G 22 6-3/185 Minnesota Duluth (NCAA) 33 19 13 2.25 0.908
176 Hampton Slukynsky LA G 20 6-1/180 Western Michigan (NCAA) 39 27 11 2.30 0.915
177 Brennan Othmann Cgy LW 23 6-0/190 Hfd-Cgy (AHL) 40 9 14 23 62
178 Lasse Boelius Ana D 19 6-1/190 Assat (Fin-Liiga) 40 1 7 8 8
179 Colby Barlow Wpg LW 21 6-0/195 Manitoba (AHL) 65 8 8 16 18
180 Charlie Cerrato Car C 21 6-0/190 Penn State (NCAA) 23 7 20 27 20
181 Cole McKinney SJ C 19 6-0/200 Michigan (NCAA) 40 8 12 20 28
182 Michal Postava Det G 24 6-2/205 Grand Rapids (AHL) 25 17 6 1.71 0.937
183 Justin Robidas Car C 23 5-8/175 Chicago (AHL) 58 23 37 60 14
184 Ty Nelson Sea D 22 5-10/195 Coachella Valley (AHL) 63 11 24 35 26
185 Carson Wetsch SJ RW 20 6-1/205 Kelowna (WHL) 65 22 50 72 80
186 Vsevolod Komarov Buf D 22 6-2/182 Rochester (AHL) 55 4 7 11 60
187 Dylan Roobroeck NYR C 21 6-6/190 Hartford (AHL) 72 11 15 26 90
188 Luca Pinelli CBJ C 21 5-9/165 Cleveland (AHL) 68 14 32 46 66
189 Tim Washe Ana C 24 6-3/215 Anaheim (NHL) 39 2 3 5 14
190 Aiden Fink Nsh RW 21 5-10/160 Penn State (NCAA) 30 10 28 38 20
191 Florian Xhekaj Mtl LW 21 6-2/175 Laval (AHL) 64 17 12 29 182
192 Carter Mazur Det LW 24 6-0/170 Grand Rapids (AHL) 16 11 5 16 14
193 Brodie Ziemer Buf RW 20 5-11/195 Minnesota (NCAA) 36 23 13 36 26
194 Nathan Behm Chi RW 19 6-2/200 Kamloops (WHL) 67 38 48 86 41
195 Ivan Ryabkin Car C 19 5-11/205 Chicago (AHL) 31 1 9 10 60
196 Jacob Quillan Tor C 24 6-1/205 Toronto (NHL) 23 1 2 3 2
197 Herman Traff Ana RW 20 6-3/215 Oskarshamn (Allsvenskan) 51 23 18 41 32
198 Joshua Roy Mtl RW 22 6-0/190 Laval (AHL) 57 23 22 45 32
199 Sandis Vilmanis Fla LW 22 6-1/190 Charlotte (AHL) 48 17 21 38 26
200 Miroslav Holinka Tor C 20 6-1/185 Edmonton (WHL) 59 37 43 80 24
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MCKEEN’S HOCKEY 2025 NHL DRAFT GUIDE: TWO-ROUND MOCK DRAFT https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/mckeens-hockey-2025-nhl-draft-guide-two-round-mock-draft/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/mckeens-hockey-2025-nhl-draft-guide-two-round-mock-draft/#respond Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:33:54 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=193792 Read More... from MCKEEN’S HOCKEY 2025 NHL DRAFT GUIDE: TWO-ROUND MOCK DRAFT

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1. New York Islanders - Matthew Schaefer - Defense

Even though this year doesn’t have the allure of the first pick next year (Gavin McKenna), the Islanders still hit the gold mine by winning the lottery with such low chances. There’s been some chatter about a Hagens selection given his local connection, but you can’t pick first overall based on that. The Islanders just locked up Ilya Sorokin long term as one of the better netminders in the NHL, so it truly makes sense to jump at the chance to draft Schaefer, a potential franchise defender who can play in all situations and eventually serve as the team’s captain.

2. San Jose Sharks - Michael Misa - Center

We’ve read some chatter that draft pundits believe Mike Grier could favour selecting someone like Martone or Frondell with this pick, given his desire to add size/tenacity to the lineup moving forward. We’d argue that Misa is just as competitive, but more skilled. This is an extremely well-rounded player who gives the Sharks a ton of flexibility moving forward. He can slot at the wing or move another of their top young forwards to the wing. He also gives them a little more dynamic, play driving ability than they currently have in the system.

3. Chicago Blackhawks - Caleb Desnoyers - Center

If there has been one modus operandi of the Hawks management in recent years, it’s that they’ve heavily focused on bringing in elite skaters. When we look at the players in this range, Desnoyers is the best skater of the remaining forwards. The Hawks could see Desnoyers filling a Jonathan Toews type role for them in the future, giving them a well-rounded two-way guy and helping to shore up their center depth moving forward.

4. Utah Mammoth - Anton Frondell - Center

Similar to the Hawks, Utah has also had an modus operandi related to size and physicality. If their picks aren’t big, they need to be competitive. The newly minted Mammoth could go a variety of directions. Porter Martone would provide that size on the wing they’ve been building up. Maybe they’re enticed by Roger McQueen and not scared by the injuries. And while Frondell isn’t huge, he plays a heavy, mature game. They liked a similar player in Cole Beaudoin last year, but Frondell has greater offensive upside. Utah’s interest stems from the hope that Frondell can be their Sasha Barkov or Anze Kopitar.

5. Nashville Predators - James Hagens - Center

This is a system that needs to add a high-end playmaker and that’s Hagens. Did he have a disappointing second half? Sure. Are there concerns about his size and ability to play center at the NHL level? Probably. But the Predators have trusted their U.S. scouts a lot in recent years and Hagens would really inject skill into a system that needs it.

6. Philadelphia Flyers - Porter Martone - Wing

On the one hand, this feels low for Martone, given that NHL teams are going to be drawn to his style of play in hopes that he can be a playoff warrior in the future. But, on the other hand, it’s also possible that teams take a run on the centers available at the top of this draft. That allows Martone to fall into the lap of the Flyers. The perfect complement to Michkov in the future? Maybe there’s hope that Martone could provide what the Flyers thought they’d be getting in Cutter Gauthier prior to the trade demand.

7. Boston Bruins - Brady Martin - Center

At this point it seems inevitable that Martin goes fairly high, perhaps even higher than this. NHL teams love his work ethic and his potential to be a top shelf NHL playoff performer. Look no further than what Sam Bennett is doing in the NHL playoffs currently. Martin is the kind of all situations impact forward that the Bruins need to kickstart their retool.

8. Seattle Kraken - Radim Mrtka - Defense

Is this the year that the Kraken finally uses a first-round selection on a defender? It has to happen at some point, right? The Kraken opt for Mrtka, a big Czech defender who could develop into a top four defensive anchor. How much offensive upside is there? Can the physical game reach another level? They could go for Jackson Smith here, but it seems more likely that they go for the more polished Mrtka, especially considering he played in Seattle of the WHL this year, so they’d be very familiar with him.

9. Buffalo Sabres - Victor Eklund - Wing

Eklund is the type of player that the organization badly needs to help them take that next step. He’s an absolute warrior on the ice and projects as that strong playoff performer because of his compete level. Yes, he’s not huge and needs to fill out, but he could be the perfect complementary winger in their top six. He already had success as a pro in Sweden this past year and could move through their system quickly, fitting their timeline perfectly.

10. Anaheim Ducks - Jake O’Brien - Center

The Ducks have some great goal scorers right now, but a top shelf playmaker like O’Brien could really help the organization moving forward. Anaheim has drafted out of the OHL a lot in recent drafts, and they obviously trust that region and their scouts from that region. O’Brien is going to need some time to bulk up and get quicker, but his upside is as high as any pivot in this draft class.

11. Pittsburgh Penguins - Roger McQueen - Center

The true wild card of the draft because of his health. If McQueen’s back wasn’t an issue, he’s likely a top five pick because of his unique skill set. But, on the heels of Cayden Lindstrom, NHL teams are likely to be pretty skittish. The Penguins are a franchise who can afford to take this home run swing. Their system needs help; they badly need a home run on the heels of the end of the Crosby era. However, the Penguins scouting staff also loves physically assertive and competitive players so don’t rule out someone like Kashawn Aitcheson here.

12. New York Rangers - Jackson Smith - Defense

Smith is unquestionably one of the highest upside players available in the draft this year. He is potentially the complete package on the blueline. However, there are some concerns over his ability to process the game. For that reason, he’s probably a longer-term project who will require patience. For the Rangers, while they could use a center more, it seems unlikely they reach on a player just for the sake of positional or organizational need. Smith gives the Rangers a potential home run and they’ve had some luck with a similar kind of player in K’Andre Miller.

13. Detroit Red Wings - Kashawn Aitcheson - Defense

The Red Wings have a type. Aitcheson is that type. The organization wants to build a team eventually engineered for the playoffs, so the focus has been on compete level and physicality. There may not be a defender who exemplifies those characteristics more in this draft. But his offensive game is underrated, and it gives him a solid chance of developing into a Kevin Bieksa style two-way type. The Wings traded Andrew Gibson and Brady Cleveland hasn’t developed well since being selected. Aitcheson is better than both.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets - Justin Carbonneau - Wing

One of the draft’s most creative and skilled offensive players, Carbonneau has excellent offensive upside. The Jackets have not shied away from the QMJHL in recent years and he would give them another high-quality offensive player on the wing to build around, given that their center depth is fairly solid. Could make a similar impact to Kent Johnson, who is coming off his best NHL season.

15. Vancouver Canucks - Braeden Cootes - Center

Sometimes things just work out. The Canucks badly need a young center with upside in their system and Cootes just happens to be one of the best players available. It’s likely that they’d be very familiar with him too, considering he plays with Seattle of the WHL. Cootes is a well-rounded two-way center who projects as an all-situations type.

16. Montreal Canadiens (via Calgary) - Carter Bear - Wing

With news that Bear’s achilles injury was only a partial tear and that he’s already back on the ice, his draft stock isn’t likely to take much of a hit. Montreal would see Bear as a strong fit in their organization as a complementary piece. He’s competitive and effective through the middle of the ice and would likely be the perfect fit with guys like Suzuki or Demidov.

17. Montreal Canadiens - Blake Fiddler - Defense

With back-to-back picks, the Canadiens take back-to-back WHL players. Yeah, the Canadiens have Reinbacher and Mailloux waiting in the wings as right shot defenders, but the main club badly needs one to pan out. You can never have too many solid defenders who can play the right side in the NHL. Fiddler is a solid two-way presence and gives them a great security blanket.

18. Calgary Flames (via New Jersey) - Jack Nesbitt - Center

This just feels like a fit. The Flames favored the OHL last year and their picks out of the league all had strong draft plus one years. Additionally, they’ve shown a desire to add size to their forward group. Nesbitt is a big pivot who showed really positive growth this year in Windsor. He is a potential all-situations, middle six center.

19. St. Louis Blues - Lynden Lakovic - Wing

While there are some concerns over Lakovic’s compete level and consistency, he’s still a high upside swing as a big winger with skill. The Blues don’t really have a player like this in their system right now, and at this point of the first round, the risks associated with Lakovic are worth taking.

20. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Minnesota) - Joshua Ravensbergen - Goaltender

It just seems inevitable that someone is going to bite on Ravensbergen in the first round. He has all the tools to develop into a topflight netminder. The Jackets are a likely candidate. They need a true incumbent in net. They have multiple first round picks. They’ve drafted a lot out of the WHL. Yes, they took Evan Gardner in the second-round last year, but he’s not the same quality of prospect as Ravensbergen.

21. Ottawa Senators - Jakob Ihs Wozniak - Wing

Ottawa is a team that hasn’t been afraid to go a little off the board in recent years. And they’ve primarily focused on players with unique skill sets or physical tools. Ihs Wozniak saved his draft stock with a strong second half and he has top six upside as a bigger scoring winger. Ottawa has also drafted heavily out of Sweden in recent years.

22. Philadelphia Flyers (via Colorado) - Cameron Reid - Defense

After selecting Martone earlier, the Flyers go back to the OHL again to take Kitchener’s Cam Reid. Reid is a highly mobile, two-way defender. He’s not big, but he’s very intelligent and projects as a solid second pairing type who could possibly quarterback a powerplay unit in the future.

23. Nashville Predators (via Tampa Bay) - Logan Hensler - Defense

Earlier the Predators selected James Hagens out of the NCAA, and they returned there with their second pick, opting for Wisconsin defender Logan Hensler. While his offensive production disappointed in his freshman season, his physical tools make him a potential defensive stalwart at the NHL level. It will also be interesting to see how his on puck game develops as he matures. The Preds traded for Andrew Gibson previously, so there’s obviously a desire to add prospects like this to their pipeline.

24. Los Angeles Kings - Sascha Boumedienne - Defense

There’s definitely a need for the Kings to add a quality defensive prospect to their cupboard and Boumedienne would be a great selection here. He improved drastically in the second half of this year, helping Sweden to a silver medal at the U18’s and Boston University to a second place finish in the NCAA. There’s a need to refine his game and improve his decision making, but the mobility is great, and he has great upside as a top four defender.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (via Toronto) - Malcolm Spence - Wing

After taking Desnoyers with the third overall selection, the Hawks take a similar player in Malcolm Spence, only Spence plays the wing. This gives Chicago another mature two-way player who skates well, who can help insulate some of their younger, higher skilled guys. Spence is leaving the OHL next year to play at Michigan (NCAA), but he could be an NHL’er in only a few years.

26. Nashville Predators (via Vegas) - Vaclav Nestrasil - Wing

The big Czech wing finished the season on a high, with a strong Clark Cup playoff performance for Muskegon. There’s a need to improve his skating, but Nashville hasn’t shied away from players who need to improve pace. With four picks inside the top 35, the Predators can afford to take a few big swings and Nestrasil has solid potential as a top six support player.

27. Washington Capitals - Henry Brzustewicz - Defense

The Capitals would have seen a lot of Brzustewicz this year while keeping tabs on defensive prospect Cam Allen, and there’s certainly been a previous connection to London with the likes of Connor McMichael and John Carlson. Brzustewicz is a raw, but toolsy two-way defender who is going to get a ton of ice time and development opportunities in London moving forward.

28. Winnipeg Jets - Milton Gastrin - Center

It seems likely that the Jets could take a center with their first this year, given the need to improve organizational depth. They have lots of options at this point in the draft, but after what happened with Rutger McGroarty, I wonder if they steer clear of an NCAA player. Gastrin is an athletic, two-way center who projects as a middle six type.

29. Carolina Hurricanes - Cullen Potter - Center/Wing

It seems like the Hurricanes always take the player who is highest ranked by the amateur scouting organizations left remaining on the board; in this case? Speedy forward Cullen Potter. One of the draft’s best skaters, there are concerns about his NHL effectiveness given his size and somewhat perimeter-oriented game. However, Potter is a player with significant NHL upside.

30. San Jose Sharks (via Dallas) - Mason West - Wing

It’s starting to feel inevitable that West goes in the first round this year after fully committing to hockey. He’s such a tremendous athlete and his upside is quite high, as long as you’re willing to exhibit patience. The Sharks already have a deep system and can afford to play the waiting game here. This is the type of home run swing you take when your system is already loaded.

31. Calgary Flames (via Florida) - Cole Reschny - Center

There’s definitely a chance that Reschny goes much higher than this. He’s one of the draft’s most intelligent pivots. However, he also has the feel of the type of guy who NHL teams are a little wary of, with average size and average athleticism. This would be a coup for the Flames, who solidify their center depth with two great first round selections.

32. Philadelphia Flyers (via Edmonton) - Will Horcoff - Center

When you’ve got three first round picks, you probably take a big swing with one of them. Horcoff is very raw and underdeveloped physically, but when his frame fills out, he could end up being a quality pro. He had some really great moments in the NCAA as a true freshman in the second half.

33. San Jose Sharks - Bill Zonnon - Center/Wing

GM Mike Grier has a type and that’s Zonnon. He loves forwards who bring consistent energy and physicality. Zonnon is one of the draft’s best forecheckers and he’s a capable offensive player too.

34. Chicago Blackhawks - Simon Wang - Defense

It seems likely that an NHL team jumps at Wang early, even if we have him ranked a little lower. The Hawks are probably a great fit. They have the depth to take a big swing like this that requires patience. They also put more emphasis on skating ability than pretty much any other organization at the draft.

35. Nashville Predators - Kurban Limatov - Defense

Last year, the Preds opted to take Russian Yegor Surin with their first-round selection and that looks like a tremendous pick. So why not go back and select mobile defender Limatov, who possesses significant upside as a two-way rock?

36. Philadelphia Flyers - Jacob Rombach - Defense

With a few high-end offensive defenders in the system, including taking Cam Reid earlier in this draft, they take big, stay at home defender Rombach out of the USHL. He could really help to be a calming presence on the blueline in the coming years.

37. Washington Capitals (via Boston) - Michal Pradel - Goaltender

The second goaltender off the board can often be a bit off the board and the Caps continue that trend by taking Pradel, a big netminder with a ton of potential as he gets stronger and improves technically. He gives them a future netminder to build around, a weakness in the system.

38. Seattle Kraken - Eric Nilson - Center

The son of former NHL’er Marcus, Eric is a potential middle six, two-way center who gives the Kraken another pivot to pencil into their lineup in the future. They haven’t drafted a ton out of Sweden, but he checks a lot of the boxes that they typically value.

39. Buffalo Sabres - Shane Vansaghi - Wing/Center

This is a franchise that needs to turn things around and become harder to play against. Vansaghi projects as a fierce competitor who can be tough to play against and who can provide a ton of versatility to the Sabres’ coaching staff in a few years. The Sabres would be very familiar with Vansaghi after watching Maxim Strbak this year.

40. Philadelphia Flyers (via Anaheim) - Daniil Prokhorov - Wing

There’s definitely a chance that this big, budding power forward goes earlier than this. However, he’d look great in the Philadelphia organization as a crease crasher, powerplay triggerman, and overall physical nuisance.

41. Montreal Canadiens (via Pittsburgh) - William Moore - Center

The Canadiens have gotten some good players out of the NTDP in recent drafts. It’s strange to think that it’s possible (like forecasted in this mock) that none could be selected in the first round. Moore is a rangy pivot who has the tools but just needs to get stronger to become more consistent. Montreal can take a swing here in hopes that he puts things together to reach his upside.

42. New York Islanders - Ben Kindel - Center

A bit of a drop for Kindel due to concerns over his frame and skating ability, but he’s a top tier playmaker and a potential all situations pivot. With Eiserman in the system, it would make sense to target a high-end playmaker to help get him the puck in the future. Insert Kindel.

43. New York Rangers - Cole McKinney - Center

The Rangers have loved the NTDP in recent years and after taking Jackson Smith in round one, they opt for a bit safer prospect in round two. McKinney is one of the draft’s best defensive centers and he improved a ton offensively over the course of the season. He is a great fit in the Rangers’ system.

44. Detroit Red Wings - Alexander Zharovsky - Wing

Detroit hasn’t drafted a ton out of Russia lately, at least not like in the glory days, however this seems like the kind of player that they should be targeting here, especially if they go “safer” again with their first-round pick. Zharovsky is a skilled and creative playmaker who has terrific offensive upside. Gives them a player that they don’t have a ton of in the system currently.

45. Philadelphia Flyers (via Columbus) - Ryker Lee - Wing

A late bloomer physically, Lee is an intelligent and well-rounded offensive player who just needs to get stronger and quicker. There’s a bit of a similar profile to Alex Bump here, when the Flyers took him and that’s worked out pretty well for them so far. Why not go back and try to strike gold twice?

46. Utah Mammoth - Ivan Ryabkin - Center

At some point, someone is going to pull the trigger on Ryabkin early, even if his year was pretty disjointed. The offensive upside is simply too tantalizing to pass up and the Utah franchise has been all about swinging for the fences on Russian players in recent years. This feels like a fit.

47. Vancouver Canucks - Semyon Frolov - Goaltender

It definitely seems likely that the Canucks could look to bring in a goaltender with one of their early round picks this year, given the lack of a clear-cut top prospect in the pool. It seems pretty clear that the Canucks are size queens at the position and that screams Frolov, a big, athletic type that is likely one of the first off the board for the position.

48. Philadelphia Flyers (via Calgary) - Cameron Schmidt - Wing

When you have THIS many selections, you’re going to come to a point where the risk is worth the reward on a player. Schmidt isn’t perfect as a smaller winger, but he has among the highest goal scoring upside of any forward available this year.

49. Montreal Canadiens - Jack Murtagh - Wing

Back-to-back NTDP selections for the Canadiens in this mock. This is a bit of a fall for Murtagh, but his poor U18’s might have left a sour taste in the mouth of some chiefs of staff. He’s got the potential to be a solid complementary piece and that could fit in really well in the Canadiens system down the line.

50. New Jersey Devils - Matthew Gard - Center

A big pivot with good two-way upside and enticing physical tools. The Devils need to upgrade the center depth in their organization and Gard would be considered one of the better pivots still left on the board.

51. Boston Bruins (via St. Louis) - Jack Ivankovic - Goaltender

Given his lack of size, it does seem likely that other goaltenders go before Ivankovic, even if it’s debatable whether he’s the most talented netminder in the class. The Bruins badly need goaltending in the system with the two Providence standouts (Dipietro and Bussi) set to be UFA’s. The Bruins have had good luck historically with smaller netminders like Tim Thomas, Byron Dafoe, and Andy Moog, so this…kind of makes sense.

52. Minnesota Wild - Petteri Rimpinen - Goaltender

With the Wild’s first pick of the draft (after dealing their first), they take a goaltender who had a heck of a season in Rimpinen. He was the Liiga ROY and the top goaltender at the WJC’s. The reality is that Wallstedt’s development has stagnated and Rimpinen can push him pretty quickly.

53. San Jose Sharks (via Ottawa) - Carter Amico - Defense

The Sharks are loaded. We’ve already said it. But if there is a need in the system currently, it is a potential standout stay at home defender. Amico may just be this draft’s best, but he missed most of the year with a knee injury. San Jose can be patient with him in hopes that he can develop into a potential partner for someone like Luca Cagnoni down the line.

54. Calgary Flames (via Colorado) - David Bedkowski - Defense

After drafting so many high-end offensive defenders in recent years, you’d think Calgary could look to use one of their high end picks this year on a physical, stay at home type to pair with them down the line. We’re a bit lower on Bedkowski than the rest of the industry, but we expect him to be drafted this high. Calgary has also loved the OHL in recent years.

55. Nashville Predators (via Tampa Bay) - Pyotr Andreyanov - Goaltender

Another goaltender taken early because it’s a strong goalie draft. The Predators go with another Russian, who could end up being the best goalie in this class. With so many picks in a strong goalie year, we’d be shocked if the Predators don’t use one on a goalie to groom behind Saros.

56. Tampa Bay Lightning (via Los Angeles) - Adam Benak - Center

When you don’t have a ton in your system and your best prospect (Issac Howard) sounds like he’s spurning you, you’ve got to shoot for the stars. There’s obviously a chance that he’s a faller even further than this because of his size, but you get to a point where the risk is worth it. Benak could certainly end up being a great player for the Lightning.

57. Seattle Kraken (via Toronto) - Ethan Czata - Wing/Center

The Kraken have loved them some OHL since joining the league and even though they took a similar player in Nathan Villeneuve last year, you can’t have too many of these types of players come playoff time. Czata is a staunch competitor and two-way forward who projects as a possible elite third line player down the road.

58. Vegas Golden Knights - Max Psenicka - Defense

The Golden Knights haven’t taken a defender in the first two rounds since Daniil Chayka and that isn’t working out. So, with their first pick in the draft, they go to the WHL to select Import defenseman Max Psenicka. He’s got some really intriguing tools, but he’s still learning to use them to develop an identity.

59. Pittsburgh Penguins (via Washington) - Ben Kevan - Wing

Kevan is a well-rounded offensive player with a chance of developing into a middle six piece in the future. He would instantly become one of the higher upside forward prospects in the system, even if there’s a need for him to get quicker and refine his critical thinking skills on the ice.

60. Anaheim Ducks (via Winnipeg) - Eddie Genborg - Wing

The Ducks have really loved drafting out of Sweden in recent years and here they take Genborg, one of the draft’s most physical forwards. The offensive upside may be a bit limited, but he’s the kind of player who fits in the system well because he projects as a solid complementary piece to the other talented players they have. He’d be a potential playoff warrior for them when the time comes.

61. Boston Bruins (via Carolina) - Everett Baldwin - Defense

Prep kid from Rhode Island who is heading to Providence. Outstanding upside as a two-way defender and one of the better skaters in the draft. He’s a long-term project who needs time to improve his decision making, but he’s a somewhat local kid they would likely be very familiar with.

62. Chicago Blackhawks (via Dallas) - Charlie Trethewey - Defense

Coming into the season Trethewey was seen as a contender for the top defender selected along with Schaefer. Not the case anymore after a poor year with the NTDP. However, he still has great upside as a two-way defender with good mobility. The Hawks can take that chance that he gets back on track.

63. Toronto Maple Leafs (via Florida) - Alexei Medvedev - Goaltender

The Leafs haven’t used a pick in the first three rounds on a goalie since 2016 (when they took Joseph Woll), so they’re due. They’d be very familiar with Medvedev and his development from scouting Easton Cowan this year. His timeline also perfectly lines up with when the pro system will need a new injection of youth. He has the upside to be an NHL netminder and is one of our top goalies available this year.

64. New Jersey Devils (via Edmonton) - Theo Stockselius - Wing/Center

Stockselius is a player flying under the radar a bit right now who could go higher than the pre-draft consensus says. He’s a high IQ type who could potentially be a very versatile player for the Devils down the line. As his frame fills out, it will be interesting to see how the offensive side of things becomes more consistent for him.

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2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW: PART TWO – Our scouts provide their biggest surprises and disappointments https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-iihf-u18-world-championship-scouts-provide-biggest-surprises-disappointments/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-iihf-u18-world-championship-scouts-provide-biggest-surprises-disappointments/#respond Tue, 06 May 2025 15:43:57 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=193095 Read More... from 2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW: PART TWO – Our scouts provide their biggest surprises and disappointments

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FRISCO, TEXAS - APRIL 26: Sweden's Filip Ekberg #14 skates with the puck while USA’s Charlie Trethewey #19 defends during Preliminary Round - Group B action at the 2025 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Comerica Center on April 26, 2025 in Frisco, Texas, USA. (Photo by Micheline Veluvolu/IIHF)

In part two of our U18 post tournament coverage, our scouts submitted their surprises and disappointments from their regions.

SURPRISES

Jere Somervuori

Somervuori came to the IIHF U18 World Championships having a bit of an up and down season. He started the season strong, producing at a point per game pace in the first half of the season but struggling in the second half. However, he was a leader offensively for Finland as he ended the tournament first in points for Finland with six points (2 goals and 4 assists). He was one of the most used forwards for his team and he was able to showcase his high compete level in every game. Somervuori’s effectiveness and tenacity on the forecheck combined with his speed and his ability to play at a high pace are qualities that should make him attractive in the middle rounds. (Jérémy Rivet, Finnish Regional Scout)

Filip Ekberg

Ekberg was a driving force for Sweden at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship, leading the tournament in scoring with 18 points in seven games. His blend of skill, hockey sense, and goal-scoring touch made him a constant threat and a key reason behind Sweden’s silver medal finish. Ekberg’s ability to create offense in transition and from set plays stood out, and he was recognized as the tournament’s MVP and Top Forward. The performance not only highlighted his upside but also reinforced his status as a top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. (Viktor Åhlund, Swedish Regional Scout)

Cole Reschny

Cole Reschny concluded his second-half surge with an exclamation point at his final event of the season, establishing himself as the biggest riser among WHL skaters. Reschny joined the team midway through the tournament and finished with five goals and three assists in five games, including a clutch overtime winner against Czechia in the quarterfinals. In addition to his cerebral playmaking, Reschny showcased a complete two-way game and a high compete level. He was a regular contributor on the PK and was aggressive in puck pursuits and forechecking sequences. An overall performance that makes him a strong candidate to go in round one. (Kyle Dalla Zanna, Western Canada Regional Scout)

Tinus Luc Koblar

Norway’s Tinus Luc Koblar deserves a huge shout out for his key role in staving off elimination. Koblar was an all-situations center, matching up against the stars of the tournament at even strength as well as seeing time on both special team units. He provided a ton of puck insulation for some of Norway’s smaller players by winning board battles all over the ice and flashed some nifty playmaking moments. Koblar could be a late riser on draft boards thanks to his strong effort this tournament and he’s a strong candidate to be picked in the later rounds. (Felix Robbins, Swedish Regional Scout)

Matúš Lisý

Lisý is an interesting case, he’s a balanced two-way defenseman with average size (6-foot-0 to 6-foot-1) who skates well and could be a late round pick. I’ve seen him play some of his best hockey at the tournament - he was confident with the puck, joining the rush, creating chances and also winning battles in his own end. One thing that concerns me is his decision making - he seemed to make too many mistakes to my liking. Still, he’s a two-way defenseman with a decent toolkit who could make his way into the bottom rounds. (Matej Deraj, Central Europe Regional Scout)

Jakob Ihs-Wozniak

Jakob's never going to drive play like an Ivar Stenberg who does it at an elite level, but instead Jakob is good at finding open space both in the offensive zone while his team has possession or being able to make plays at fast speeds during the rush. Jakob is an incredible finisher and added up five goals throughout the tournament, ending up with seven points in seven games. While he wasn't Sweden's most trusted offensive forward (only receiving 14:24 average ice-time), he was still able to produce. Thanks to his play this tournament, an NHL team could very much be interested in taking him in the first round as the top six potential has become more evident. (Simon Johansson, European Video Scout)

Jack Ivankovic

Jack Ivankovic's talent and ability have always been prevalent throughout the season. Unfortunately, however, his performance has always fluctuated heavily, with his playoff series against Oshawa being a big test to see if the regular season inconsistencies were behind him. Unfortunately, that series did not go as planned, and Ivankovic ended his OHL year in a rut. The U18 world championship acted as the last chance for Ivankovic to generate momentum and prove that he can step up where every game matters. He did just that, only allowing six goals in six games. He looked very in control of the play, and even though his team was dominant, he was able to snuff out any comeback attempts, dominating the play himself and making some big saves while the results were still up in the air. (Liam Crouse, Goaltending Scout)

L. J. Mooney

Although Mooney was the smallest player on team USA, listed at 5-foot-7, he was by far their most consistent and reliable producer throughout the tournament. Not only did he lead the Americans in scoring with 11 points, but he was also their most consistent play driver and physical presence. Money was noticeable in all three zones and did not shy away along the wall and in the high danger areas. His relentless motor helped spark the U.S. squad at times when they needed a boost. This performance should definitely bump his draft stock. (Mark Dube, U.S. Regional Scout)

Cullen Potter

Besides L.J. Mooney, who was the most surprising standout on the USA team, Potter looked far and away the best player for almost every game in the tournament. He only played middle six minutes (technically 3rd line) but over the course of the tournament was continuously adjusting and improving. He seemed to benefit from having Moore and Horcoff on his line, both of whom are very talented in their own respects, and he used his supporting teammates during play more than we’ve seen with ASU throughout the season. Overall, a very strong showing for Potter. There were times when he touched the puck that he looked like an NHL player playing against 17-year-olds. (Sean Boyd, U.S. Regional Scout)

Lev Katzin

I did expect a 5-foot-8 speedster to be a big contributor offensively for Canada…but I didn’t expect it to be Guelph forward Lev Katzin. The Penn St commit had 48 points in 44 OHL games this year but established himself as a key top six forward in this U18 tournament and finished third on team scoring with 10 points. A draft afterthought during the season, I think his play this tournament secured him a later round selection. (Jamison Derksen, North American Video Scout)

Florian Schenk

Coming off a rather disappointing four-point, minus-eight season in the QMJHL, it was uncertain how much of a factor the 6-foot-4, 209-pound winger would be in Texas. Despite Switzerland getting relegated and not winning a game from the test-game phase to the shootout loss to Norway, Schenk showed a lot of spunk and was mighty aggressive in trying to prevent the team’s unfortunate fate. He pumped in four goals and racked up seven minor penalties, mostly because he ran around like a bull in a china shop. It hurt the team at times, but he sure stuck out in what was generally a potpourri of blandness. (Chapin Landvogt, Central Europe Regional Scout)

Elias Schneider

Put your hand up if you knew who Schneider was coming into this year’s U18 Worlds? Well, it sure wasn’t certain where exactly Schneider would wind up in the line-up, but he ended up anchoring the first line and becoming the team’s top scorer with six points. He regularly displayed a heavy shot (hitting a number of solid posts and crossbars along the way) while also collecting several lovely assists (and setting up plays that his teammates didn’t make use of). Sure, he’s not the finest skater and he tried pushing a number of plays that weren’t there, but he was one of the surprises of the tournament, not just this team. We’d sure love to see him in Canadian juniors next season. (Chapin Landvogt, Central Europe Regional Scout)

DISAPPOINTMENTS

Atte Joki

Joki was a bit of a disappointment for Finland offensively for Finland. He ended the tournament with zero points in five games even if he was the most used forward for Finland. Especially in high scoring games where Finland rolled over Norway (7-1) and Latvia (10-2), we could have expected more from him. He was still able to showcase his effectiveness on the forecheck, backcheck, and his play around the net, but his lack of finishing touch, could make his draft stock fall a bit. However, the number of minutes he played demonstrated that he is a player that can be trusted in different situations. (Jérémy Rivet, Finnish Regional Scout)

Karl Annborn

Karl Annborn’s performance at the 2025 U18 World Championship fell short of my expectations, particularly on the offensive side. Despite playing in all seven games, he failed to register a single point and had minimal impact in Sweden’s transition game or offensive zone play. In a tournament that highlighted the value of mobile, puck-moving defensemen, Annborn contributed little in terms of creativity or offensive pressure. While defensively reliable, his lack of production limited his overall influence. His showing reflected a more conservative role rather than one of a dynamic two-way contributor. (Viktor Åhlund, Swedish Regional Scout)

Cameron Schmidt

Cameron Schmidt’s play left much to be desired. Known for his breakneck skating ability and ability to execute skilled plays with high-end speed, the diminutive winger struggled to create offence and displayed concerns around his hockey sense and lack of defensive engagement. He disappeared for long stretches, and showed individualistic habits on the attack, skating into pressure and passing up playmaking opportunities for low-percentage shots far too often. Schmidt’s dynamic abilities and goal-scoring upside bring optimism for his NHL projection when he’s on his game, but at this point, he’s going to hear his name called on day two. (Kyle Dalla Zanna, Western Canada Regional Scout)

Eddie Genborg

Eddie Genborg was a player I wanted more from all tournament long. Outside of a couple big hits, Genborg was outshined and out-gritted by his checking linemates Torkel Jennersjo and Morgan Anderberg. While he isn’t exactly known for his scoring ability, he was a net negative on the puck and seemed to be constantly chasing play. He’s billed as a straightforward, playable depth piece, but there were moments he didn’t look all that playable for Sweden. This performance shouldn’t overshadow the excellent year he’s had in the J20 with Linköping, but the likelihood of Genborg going in the top two rounds may be in jeopardy. (Felix Robbins, Swedish Regional Scout)

Michal Oršulák

Goaltending was the main issue for Czechia throughout the whole tournament. Due to Ondřej Štěbeták’s absence, Oršulák was tasked with being the goalie no. 1, but eventually lost his job to underager František Polatín. Oršulák often looked nervous and disengaged in net. He was solid in his first game, although he did let in a sloppy goal, but held Czechia throughout the match. The next performances were much worse. He has great size at 6-foot-4 and displays solid athleticism, but his performance at the tournament certainly didn’t help his draft stock. (Matej Deraj, Central Europe Regional Scout)

Anton Frondell

Frondell's performance in the U18 tournament was a bit of a letdown. He joined the team mid-tournament and there are arguments for him being tired because of his play in the Hockeyallsvenskan. However, I would say that excuse doesn't suffice as he didn't play much at all through the latter parts of the Hockeyallsvenskan playoffs. Being talked about as a top 10 pick in this draft, you expect more from him. His flashes are good, making solid reads defensively and displaying his hockey IQ by finding teammates in good scoring areas. But overall, he was quite invisible and was lacking as a difference maker, which could drive his stock down in the upcoming draft. (Simon Johansson, European Video Scout)

Michal Orsulak

The U18 world championship is the ideal venue for goalies outside of the well-covered North America to make a name for themselves with a strong performance, leading to the draft. Orsulak was a goalie whose stats in Czechia U20 did not stand out, and relied upon his visual skillset to generate attention, but needed a strong performance at the tournament to assert that he is a legit prospect. Unfortunately, his weaknesses got exposed, allowing several weak goals from clean shots that could’ve been prevented with active hands and better positioning. Each goal seemed to negatively affect Orsulak and linger throughout the tournament, as he didn’t appear to be the same competitive, athletic goalie that was shown in the regular season. (Liam Crouse, Goaltending Scout)

Jack Murtagh

As the highest ranked U18 NTDP prospect here at McKeen’s, there were some expectations from Murtagh coming into this tournament. He’s known for his goal scoring abilities and only ended up with two goals and six points in seven games for team USA. Murtagh seemed to lack that confidence with the puck he often possessed throughout the season. He didn’t drive the net with much authority and seemed hesitant to shoot at times when a play was available to him. One tournament doesn’t define a season, but it would have been nice to see more from Murtagh in Texas. (Mark Dube, U.S. Regional Scout)

Charlie Trethewey

After a very strong season with the U17 team, he started slow this season and then really started heating up his play towards the end of the season, but he really fell flat this tournament. The offensive upside and overall shine to his game seemed suppressed and his highlights were overshadowed by mishandling under pressure and defensive lapses. Posting one assist in seven games after 10 points in seven games at the U17s last season, it seemed like there was still a lot of work to be done with Trethewey. Time in the NCAA with Boston University next season could iron out issues and bring back his A-game. (Sean Boyd, U.S. Regional Scout)

Jackson Smith

Jackson Smith was expected to be one of the best defensemen in the tournament and a key player for Canada. He was good, and did end up scoring four goals, but he didn’t really stand out or take over games the way I thought he might. No new red flags or anything, it just was a bit of a letdown for the number two defenceman on the draft board. (Jamison Derksen, North American Video Scout)

Matia Nico Birchler

Of all the goaltenders who stood in net for at least three games, Birchler’s numbers were the worst. He came in felt to be good enough to back the team into the quarterfinals but ended up being a difference maker from a negative standpoint. A 7.79 GAA and .810 save percentage were actually quite indicative of what we saw along the way and there were some goals against of the backbreaking variety in each contest. The 6-foot-5 netminder has some tools, so this was a bad time not to be able to apply them. (Chapin Landvogt, Central Europe Regional Scout)

David Lewandowski

The right wing on upstart Germany’s top offensive unit, Lewandowski underwhelmed his way to three points in the first three games before falling off the planet. In fact, he wrapped things up as more of a detriment to the team than the difference maker they desperately needed him to be. Possessing immense stickhandling and physical tools, not to mention a 41-point WHL season under his belt, he did far too little for a team that was otherwise busy overachieving. With several players having put up a +4, his -6 was the worst on the team. His shanking of a shot on as wide open a net as you’ll ever see was poignantly descriptive of his overall performance. (Chapin Landvogt, Central Europe Regional Scout)

 

 

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2025 IIHF U18 World Championships – Division B – Team Preview – Players to Watch https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-iihf-u18-world-championships-division-team-preview-players-watch/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-iihf-u18-world-championships-division-team-preview-players-watch/#respond Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:52:40 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=192921 Read More... from 2025 IIHF U18 World Championships – Division B – Team Preview – Players to Watch

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It’s been a few years since we saw the U18 Worlds hosted by USA hockey in Frisco and Allen, Texas, back in the spring of 2021. At the time, the pandemic still played a considerable role in shaping schedules throughout the hockey world, but the tournament proved very special in that the names Bedard and Michkov were already all the rage. Double underagers, they each made heavy offensive contributions (usually of a highlight variety) and then faced off in the tournament final, one decided by a Team Canada that would eventually see 22 players drafted in the following years.

Sure, the tournament was filled with many other talented and highly sought players, but it wasn’t one to remember for Team USA, which bowed out in the quarterfinals. This year’s edition feels somewhat similar to the host back in 2021 in that it lacks the all-out star power of recent years and will include a handful of outside additions from Canadian junior ranks and the NCAA. We nonetheless are terribly excited about seeing this year’s US squad duke it out in Group B action against annual contender Sweden, a loaded Czech program, the most impressive German ensemble in quite some time, and eternal quarterfinal participants Switzerland. Viewing things from the outset, this group could potentially present three of the four teams that will end up playing for a medal. Each of the Czech Republic, Sweden, and the USA feature numerous players of NHL interest for the next two drafts. At the same time, it’s anybody's call as to which of Germany or Switzerland is most likely to be heading to the relegation round and either could be good for a surprise along the way.

Here’s what to expect from each of the Group B contestants from April 23rd through May 3rd.

Czechia

Adam Benak

We keep getting excited about the progress the Czech program has made over the past 5-8 years but there’s no denying that they’ve simply reached a point where contention for a medal should be expected at both the U18 and U20 levels year after year. The nation keeps generating talents that are desired in junior leagues across North America and northern Europe while others manage to play pro at home already at this young age. Once all of this year’s nominees have arrived in Texas, Coach David Cermak will be able to dish out a ton of ice time to a handful of specific players who have everything required to make this team a gold medalist.

Alas, therein lies the problem as a number of the top nominees are still busy in primarily North American league playoffs. In some cases, they might not make it whatsoever. This could lead to the scouting world getting to see some special aspects like 15-year old defensive phenom Lukas Kachlir and Liberec product David Roszival, who had a sneaky good year at the perhaps underscouted Czech U20 level, not to mention hulking underage forward Simon Katolicky. But we’re going to assume that most of the big guns will be there at some point and then this Czech outfit will be one we expect to see battling for a medal on May 3rd.

Players to watch
Adam Benak - F

It feels like we've been gushing about Benak forever thanks to many dazzling performances at no less than the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. However, he finally brought his show to the USHL this season and it was magical. As he continues to get quicker on his feet and with the puck, we watched him create magic all season long for the Youngstown Phantoms, where his silky hands led to what seemed like unending offensive creation. Worries about size are still legitimate, but his 59 points in 56 games indicate he has no plans on letting it hold him back. He’s still involved in the USHL playoffs, so the Czechs will have to wait for his services, but when he arrives, he’ll likely become the tournament’s top powerplay producer.

Vojtech Cihar - F

A well-built winger with good speed and the knack of regularly making his way to the goal, Cihar already took a regular shift at the WJC and is coming off an entire season at the pro level (4 goals, 9 points) in the Czech Republic’s top league. He should be a key player in the top six for this team while adding a physical dimension to the attack.

Simon Katolicky - F

Only 16, Katolicky is already 6-foot-4 and inching towards 190 pounds. He’s been playing his junior hockey in Finland and has suited up for Czechia internationally 46 times over the past two seasons, for whom he regularly occupies the Ovechkin spot on the powerplay, albeit from the right side faceoff circle. Long story short, he brings size, skating, and a heck of a shot. He’ll be a hot topic for the 2026 draft and truth be told, if his playing style is any indication, Jaromir Jagr is definitely his idol.

Radim Mrtka - D

If a 6-foot-6, 200-pound righty shot defenseman who skates well, checks like a bull, and can lead your attack with a solid first pass is your idea of a unicorn, then Mrtka is your unicorn du jour for this year’s tournament. He possesses everything necessary to take over a game. He’ll without a doubt be the go-to man for coach Cermak on the blueline and is one of the key reasons the Czechs are expected to be a medal contender.

Matej Pekar - F

One of the youngest players in this summer’s draft, Pekar’s rookie season in the WHL was decent but nothing to get all too excited about. Having gone the Swiss juniors route in recent years, Pekar is your classic puck-rusher who’ll shake ‘n bake his way into scoring positions if you give him the time and space. This should allow him to eat some teams apart if they’re busy giving other forwards on this Czech side most of their attention. Both passer and shooter, he won’t hesitate to rip off wristers when he sees the net.

Tomas Poletin - F

A returnee from last year’s squad, the 6-foot-1, 196 pound power forward has spent several years in Finland’s U20 junior circuit and even got into 20 Liiga games this season, including playoffs. As for friendly matches and various test games with the nation’s U17 and U18 teams in recent years, he’s always been at the top of the scoring lists. He’s hard on the forecheck and makes his way to the net regularly.

Max Psenicka - D

Vladimir Dravecky may have to step up to the plate a bit until Psenicka arrives, but once (or if) the steady 6-foot-4, 190-pound defenseman arrives from the WHL playoffs, he’ll be a go-to player on the blueline and will give the Czechs the kind of size and righty-shot combo that few teams possess. A player not too different from Mrtka, Psenicka joined the Portland Winterhawks later in the season but immediately became a defensive mainstay with a solid eye for his teammates. Could be literally and figuratively a huge boost to this team’s blueline.

Ondrej Stebetak - G

As we write this, Stebetak is still battling it out for his Portland Winterhawks in a grueling seven-game series against the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL. Should his side lose the next game, he’ll be on his way to Texas. And truth is, the Czechs have a vested interest here because Stebetak is talented enough to be the end all, say all, difference at the U18 Worlds. Still, he’s played 13 playoff games over the past 22 days, so we don’t know what’ll be in the tank if he makes it down!

Germany

David Lewandowski of Germany lduring the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship game between Germany and Latvia on December 30, 2024 in Ottawa.
Photo: Mathias Bergeld / BILDBYRÅN

Coach Patrick Reimer is entering this tournament knowing that he’s going to be coaching at the pro level next season. Thus, this is his last hoorah at the U18 level for now and what he’s got is essentially the most anticipated German side in recent years. Having only just regained a spot at the top level again with a flawless D1A U18 Worlds in Denmark last spring, Reimer will be making use of a handful of players who were keys to that promotion, several of whom were already key contributors to Germany’s WJC efforts this past winter.

Particularly the forward group is chock full of players who have taken excellent strides (many at the pro level) in recent years and bring a much higher rate of offensive acumen than just about any German outfit in recent memory. Nonetheless, it’s uncertain how solid this goaltending group can be and if we’re honest, the blueline is currently looking like it’s only one very solid pairing deep. There’s potential within the remaining six defenders, but it’s definitely going to require at least three of them to step up to the plate and show there’s more in them than they’ve indicated internationally to date, even if we were very excited about Max Bleicher this time last year.

With all that in mind, the team is here to stave off relegation. This realistic goal will be plenty hard to achieve and even if the squad believes it can duke it out with anyone it faces, the fact is that the preliminary bout against archrival Switzerland on April 27th will likely be all-decisive in determining if the team heads to the quarterfinals or once again has to decide its fate in a relegation round. On paper, their chances against Switzerland are clearly better than they otherwise have been in recent years.

Players to watch
David Lewandowski - F

As we enter this tournament, Lewandowski is far and away Germany’s top prospect for the 2025 NHL draft. Already talked about heavily throughout Germany’s hockey scene in recent years, it took him all of seven DEL games this season to decide that he’s best suited strutting his stuff in North America. A jump to the Saskatoon Blades, and the ensuing 41 points in 56 total games, gave the hockey world a clear sample of his possibilities and even if his scoring abilities were anything but dominant, his quick and successful adaption to the rough-n-tumble ways of the WHL answered some of the key questions we’ve had in recent years. More importantly, he’s gotten a taste of the North American scene, and you can be certain that he knows all too well what this tournament can mean for his draft chances this summer. Key first line and powerplay roles await him.

Carlos Händel - D

It’s been a long time since a German defenseman was able to head to a Canadian junior league and make an impact, much less at age 17, but righty shot Händel did just that this season for the Halifax Mooseheads. Having just turned 18, Händel is an extremely confident player who wants the puck on his stick and won’t let a few bad bounces get him off his game. Expect him to be on the ice for every important situation Team Germany faces seeing as how he already averaged over 22 minutes of TOI at last winter’s WJC.

Maxim Penkin - F

The 15-year-old gained “exceptional status” to play in Germany’s top U20 league (DNL) this past winter and proceeded to score at more than a PPG pace while then becoming the league’s playoff MVP for the champion Adler Mannheim. Not a shabby start! Likely possessing the strongest offensive skillset since Tim Stützle, Penkin will already be a top nine player at the upcoming tournament and scored in the test game against Canada. He may not make a lot of music in Texas, but just getting to see him at this early stage should be a real treat for the whole hockey world.

Maxim Schäfer - W

A behemoth of a 17-year-old, Schäfer is already 6-foot-4 and moves around the ice with the coordination and purpose of an older player. He’s also coming off what was almost an entire season of top league DEL play, but his 44 points in 18 U20 league games showed that he can dominate teenagers his age and older. three points in five WJC games - played in Canada no less - indicate that he’s ready to make an impact in Texas. However, he’s currently still playing for Berlin in the DEL finals with his team two wins away from the title. Would be a boon if he’s in Texas by April 27th!

Dustin Willhöft - W

A spit in the bucket weightwise, the 5-foot-8 mini might is coming off a dominant year in Germany’s top junior circuit (104 points in 43 games) and was already Germany’s top performer at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where hardly any offensive opportunities were created without him being right in the middle of them. He has a motor and a heck of a shot, but it’s his vision and set-up abilities that will have you (and his teammates) smiling.

Sweden

Djurgårdens Anton Frondell.
Photo: Kenta Jönsson / BILDBYRÅN

Coach Tommy Paananen has nominated a team that has every scout’s mouth watering. Especially when it comes to the forward group, the team is more than “locked and loaded” for a medal in Texas, if not gold itself. An 8-3 romping of Team Canada in a pre-tournament test game verified that. About the only player missing from this dream team attack is Victor Eklund, but that’s because he’s aged out. The group is three scoring lines deep and that’s even considering that the main man up front, Anton Frondell, is still busy vying for promotion for his Djurgarden club, so he’s bound to miss two, if not three of the preliminary round games.

The team will nonetheless have to see one of the goaltenders stand tall at times, with Love Härenstam being the expected frontrunner despite being statistically behind his two netminding colleagues, and the defensive group will need to prove itself capable in the transition and puck-moving game because the bulk of them are of the defense-oriented variety. How Paananen makes it all work will be interesting to see but it’s clear that he has many pieces to work with once everyone is on board. Anything less than a medal would be a terrible disappointment, with all eyes clearly focused on gold.

Players to watch
Viggo Björck - F

An absolutely dynamic offensive dynamo who excels in puck possession (and protection), Björck is entering this tournament as one of the top three prospects for the 2026 draft. A wonderkid in many respects, his strong strides and tricky righty shot release have led to a gawd awful number of points in Sweden’s junior ranks in recent years. He got into one game of pro play this winter and sure enough, he scored his first pro goal. Having led Sweden’s U20 circuit in regular season scoring (then finishing second in the playoffs), we’ve got every reason to believe that Björck could already be Sweden’s go-to offensive force over the next two weeks. He’s that good.

Sascha Boumedienne - D

If there’s one player on this team that the scouting community hasn’t seen too little of, it’s Boumedienne. The son of a former part-time NHL defenseman, Boumedienne headed to the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL last season and excelled as a two-way defenseman with a strong understanding of the defensive side of the game. He’s now completed his first season of college hockey with the BU Terriers and just missed out on a national championship, having logged no less than 22 minutes of TOI over the final six games. He understands tournament play very well, knows what it’s like to live under a microscope, and in Texas, he’ll have one last shot at rounding out his profile as that of a late first rounder. Expect this staff to give him plenty of ice time along the way.

Anton Frondell - F

The ride continues for one of the most exciting offensive juggernauts in the 2025 draft. Frondell brings a variety of weapons to the table but impresses most through his incredible maturity and solid decision making for a player his age. And, well, he just loves to generate offense. Having spent the bulk of the season putting up 25 points in 29 HockeyAllsvenskan games, he’s shown he’s able to play with some of the best players Sweden has to offer. Alas, he and his team have been so good that they’re now in the midst of the championship series and he’s sure to miss the tournament’s beginning, as he continues to hold a top nine role for his team. He’ll be a key once he arrives, and we just hope he won’t be too worn out when the time comes.

Milton Gästrin - F

A bit of a power forward with solid size and both playmaking and finishing abilities, Gästrin got into eight SHL games this season and has been absolutely incredible for Sweden in international friendlies the past two years. The captain of the U17 national team last winter and the assistant captain of his MoDo U20 squad, we’re not doubting that his word weighs heavy in this locker room. The tournament will also be an opportunity for him to entrench himself as a first-round option for a team this summer.

Eddie Genborg - F

Like Gästrin, Genborg is another big, solidly built power forward winger with a strong drive to the net. His production for his club’s U20 team as a 17-year-old was fantastic and his development was at a point where he got into 28 SHL games this season, albeit with little tangible results (2 goals, -1 rating). Nonetheless, some view him as worthy of a 1st round pick this summer, so this tournament will be his final opportunity to convince the scouting community that that’s where he belongs.

Theodor Hallquisth - D

Tall and gangly, Hallquisth is a righty shot defenseman who has a knack for blocking shots while he defends with a long stick that he aptly uses to master the pokecheck. A player who forwards smashed their teeth against trying to get by this winter, Hallquisth has also gotten into 12 SHL games and loves to push up the middle to the slot, adept at carrying the puck himself. We can expect him in a top four role in Texas, but we are curious to see how he’ll match up with some of the smaller skill forwards that teams like the USA and Czech Republic will be throwing out on the ice.

Jakob Ihs-Wozniak - F

A tournament returnee, Ihs-Wozniak is one of this year’s draft prospects who has seen his stock drop a bit, having not been selected to the WJC squad, yet who brings many key attributes to the table, not the least of which being a 6-foot-3, 185-pound frame that doesn’t prevent him from getting around the ice somewhat smoothly. A righty shot, Ihs-Wozniak dressed for 13 games for Lulea, which is currently battling for the SHL championship. Internationally, all he’s done is regularly produce for Sweden’s junior teams, so he’s got an offensive role in the bag at this tournament.

Ivar Stenberg - F

What a winter it’s been for Otto Stenberg’s little brother Ivar, who - as a 17-year-old - got into 25 regular season (3 points) and 12 postseason (6 points) contests for Frölunda. His trajectory has been up and up all season, as his combination of speed, hockey sense, and quick hands already allowed him to dominate the U20 circuit offensively (53 points in 27 games). He’s not eligible to be drafted until 2026, but we fully expect him to use this tournament to continue building on his profile and are hearing that he’s planning on spending the next two springs gunning for his older brother’s statistical U18 Worlds records.

Switzerland

We’re going to be generous by stating that coach Schumacher and his staff will have their work cut out for them in Texas. Despite being able to almost always stave off an appearance in the relegation round, Switzerland hasn’t had a lot of success in recent years and this tournament may not be any different. With the first game against Sweden not even 48 hours away, the world is still waiting for the Swiss to announce the final roster.

Still, there really won’t be any surprises as the team will consist almost entirely of players who spent this past season playing in the nation’s top U20 league, some of whom not getting beyond a middle six role. Sure, the team will be interesting in some respects, like with Lian Bichsel’s little brother Finn expected to make the cut while underagers Clemens Troxler and Jonah Neuenschwander will probably slot into top nine roles.

One way or another, there’s simply no star power for this year’s class and international events have given us little reason to believe this rather nameless group is going to be able to do much more than keep the results close. Critical will be the game against archrival Germany on April 27th. That’ll be the most important game of the tournament for both teams and the Swiss are well aware that Germany is bringing one of the most anticipated waves of players it’s been able to throw onto the ice in recent years. Expect that game to decide if this team will once again have the honor of facing the uphill battle posed by quarterfinals or instead have to duke it out for class retention.

Players to watch
Guus Van der Kaaij - D

The likely captain for this year’s outfit, Van der Kaaij is dual Swiss Dutch citizen and is a solidly built athlete who has seen his star rise this past season more than any other Swiss prospect. Although his U20 stats were just average (better in the playoffs), it’s his all-round game and defensive wherewithal that has raised eyebrows while he’s been lauded for his leadership capabilities. Moreover, his 11 SL games in which he collected two assists, and a +6 rating showed a high level of maturity and a knack for picking up the pace with the higher level. He then got into seven NL games, six of which were in the playoffs. Rest assured that he’ll be made heavy use of in Texas.

Jeremiah Mundy - F

Entering the season, the 6-foot-3, 196-pound forward who is half Canadian was seen as perhaps Switzerland’s top prospect for the upcoming draft. Having flipped over to the Davos program before the season, he proceeded to see that status go lost while always being a top six forward to the tune of 16 goals and 30 total points in 54 games. In addition, he was never called up or loaned out to a pro team, so his good but average stats are only applicable for a league that isn’t an international measuring stick. Is he as good as he was advertised before this season? His performance as a top six forward in Texas will be his last chance to show he is in time for this summer’s draft.

Jonah Neuenschwander - F

First eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft, Neuenschwander just turned 16 not even a month ago and already measures in at 6-foot-3, 185 pounds. In addition, Swiss Hockey even brought him along to the WJC this past winter as a 15-year-old and gave him three games of experience, so he should be a top nine forward during this event. All that pales in comparison to the fact that the burly forward got into 15 games of top league NL action this past season while putting up 45 points in 48 total games for his U20 squad, something that saw him finish fourth overall in playoff scoring. He’s a star on the rise in a time where the Swiss program is in desperate need of one.

USA

 

Cole McKinney

If you’ve been following us all winter long, you’ll know that this hasn’t been the best season for the famed USNTD program, one that experienced a whole lot of losing against USHL clubs and less than inspiring results in some of the international bouts throughout. That the team recently dropped a 4-3 OT decision against Norway in a test game surely had some in the hockey community rolling their eyes but we’re viewing this team with the belief that it can get things together in time for the quarterfinals and then push for a medal when all is said and done.

The reason for this is that by adding WHL defenseman Blake Fiddler, OHL defenseman (and underager) Chase Reid, NCAAers Cullen Potter and William Horcoff, and USHLers Casey Mutryn and Benjamin Kevan, the team will be getting some considerable reinforcements from the outside, all of whom have past ties to USA Hockey in some capacity. From a scouting perspective, we won’t be disappointed if we get to see any of underagers Mikey Berchild, Sammy Nelson, or Teddy Mutryn either, but that’ll likely mean that someone else isn’t carrying his weight.

There are enough tournament-built requisites throughout the line-up for coach Moore to play any type of game that comes but it’d be a big advantage if this US team doesn’t find itself having to chase the scoreboard much. Goaltending and the blueline have proven to be shaky to date, but both Germany and Switzerland should be gimmes in the preliminary round and as long as the outside additions can gel with the core by the time the games start to really count, this team should be in medal contention. Of course, we all thought that back in 20-21, when the team couldn’t get over the oh so deadly hill that is the quarterfinals, where four teams always see their tournaments end.

If that should be the USA’s fate, the program may want to find a different venue the next time it’ll be hosting this vaunted event. The dominant U18 program the past decade plus, the story this team will write over the next 10 days is one of the most anticipated of the tournament.

Players to watch
Blake Fiddler - D

A huge 6-foot-4, 210-pound righty shot defenseman with NHL pedigree, the Nashville-born Blake Fiddler was a do-it-all mechanic for the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL this season and already starred for Team USA at last summer’s Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Widely considered a first-round talent, Fiddler may be the best US defenseman in this class and the team will need him to bring his A-game all tournament long. If he solidifies things, this should have an impact on the other talented, but inconsistent blueliners dotting the line-up.

Cole McKinney - F

Probably the biggest riser within the program this past winter, McKinney has a prime opportunity to use this tournament to make a major jump up draft lists. The University of Michigan commit has been one of the program’s more productive players in recent months and is a weapon of all trades. He’s got moves, he’s got deadly wristers and snapshots, he possesses a playmaker’s vision, and he’s proving himself opportunistic on the ice, showing a strong read of where the puck is going to be. He’s a given as an offensive catalyst for a team who’ll need him to step up to the plate in order to play for a medal.

L.J. Mooney - F

Incredibly small, Mooney moves around on the ice like few on this team can. Flashing electric edgework and slick directional changes, Mooney’s hands keep up with his feet and also deliver the best playmaking on the team. Naturally limited in the physical department, he’s an energetic waterbug who’ll look to create space by beating one opponent before finding the next open teammate. Enthusiastic and hungry to create opportunities, his 5-foot-7 height won’t play much of a role at this tournament, so we expect him to be making a serious impact off the rush.

Will Moore - F

A tall forward with a back-n-forth game, Moore has spent the past two seasons clipping at just under a PPG average but could at any time take the bull by the horns and be this team’s offensive catalyst. Is that time now? The Boston College commit has added a bit of playmaking side to his previous profile as an adept sniper and as things stand, he could very well line up with center Potter and left wing Horcoff for a new trio entering tournament play. We’d like to see him use this platform to suggest himself as a surefire 1st round draft pick this summer. His prospect standing is still in flux.

Jack Murtagh - F

Solidly built and consistently a producer, Murtagh looked like a bonafide 1st rounder heading into this season, having shone at the World Hockey Challenge last year. There were ups and downs this winter and as much as the Boston University commit looks like a solid pro in the making, there’s no telling whether we'll see him be all he can be in Texas. If he is, then this team will be getting a player who looks for his teammates but adores picking corners as much as anything else. Look for him to make his presence known.

Cullen Potter - F

Originally a member of the USNTDP, Potter decided to head to college early and pretty much thrived while being one of the youngest players in the NCAA. Having just turned 18 in January, his quick and deceptive game built off of great acceleration and the readiness to shoot with aplomb had Potter’s inclusion on this team being a no-brainer. And it may perhaps prove to be just the jumpstart the US needs, seeing as his natural talent combined with his experience against much older and stronger competition should have him ahead of the game in Texas. To be noted is that Potter is just 5-foot-9 and not even 170 pounds, thus fast but can be pushed around.

Charlie Trethewey - D

Off to Boston University next fall, Trethewey feels like one of the players on this team who most needs to clarify his identity in this event. In general, he has most of the prerequisites of a defensive defenseman with just enough offensive acumen to get rushes started or contain pucks in the offensive zone in a positive manner, but for all the big hits we’ve seen him throw, there have been misses and positioning problems. For the long term, there’s much to build on here, but for the U18 Worlds, he needs to bring an A-game, if he’s got it in him at this juncture.

 

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2025 NHL DRAFT: TOP 100 PLUS HONOURABLE MENTIONS – March edition – FOR SUBSCRIBERS https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-top-100-honourable-mentions-march-edition/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-top-100-honourable-mentions-march-edition/#respond Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:34:18 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=192579 Read More... from 2025 NHL DRAFT: TOP 100 PLUS HONOURABLE MENTIONS – March edition – FOR SUBSCRIBERS

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Porter Mantone of the Brampton Steelheads. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.
It’s time for an update to our 2025 NHL draft rankings. Back in December, prior to the World Junior Championships, we released our top 64. Now, not only are we updating, but we’re expanding to a Top 100 (plus honorable mentions). This will be our final draft ranking prior to the release of our Top 300 (along with our annual draft guide).

Erie Otters defender Matthew Schaefer remains on top, despite not playing since our last release due to a collarbone injury suffered at the World Juniors. However, we have no doubt that Schaefer will return stronger than ever. He has been skating recently and is gearing up for a return for the OHL playoffs. At this point, Schaefer is our clear number one and we don’t expect that to change.

The other players in our top ten are all the same, with some minor shuffling. Michael Misa moves ahead of James Hagens based on his strong production with Saginaw, mixed with Hagen’s drop in production with Boston College post World Juniors. We feel that both players have similar projections as top six pivots, but we feel Misa’s frame gives him a greater opportunity to be a more complete pro. Caleb Desnoyers is the other big riser. While, admittedly, we do have some minimal concerns about his offensive upside, we appreciate his pro style of play and safe floor, in combination with the improvement he has shown offensively over the course of this season. Roger McQueen is the big “faller” inside our top ten due to injury and durability concerns. He has recently returned to action and we’re eager to see how he performs down the stretch.

Among the biggest risers, Bill Zonnon, Cole McKinney, and Jake O’Brien standout. O’Brien is knocking on the door of the top ten, moving from 23 to 13 thanks to his elite playmaking ability and three zone awareness. McKinney elevated his play in the second half to become the top pivot on the US NTDP, giving our scouts a better indication of his offensive upside. Zonnon is an energetic forward with a pro frame who has been a favourite of our Eastern scouts thanks to consistent production.

Among the biggest fallers are Malcolm Spence (from 13 to 23, switching with O’Brien), Luca Romano (24 to 44), Ivan Ryabkin (26 to 39), and Tomas Pobezal (from 39 to 81).

You may have caught our recent, and annual second chances series that outlined the top “re-entries” available for 2025. Kristian Epperson (49), Francesco Dell’Elce (82), Petteri Rimpinen (84), and Sam Laurila (98) cracked our Top 100. Additionally, Jamiro Reber is listed as an honorable mention.

Overall, the picture is becoming more and more clear regarding this draft class. Simply put, the majority of our scouts are not enamored with the depth of this group. “In a normal year, when we put together our March list, the debate for the first round is often charged, with the regional scouts all fighting to have their personal, regional favourites included in the top 32,” said Director of Scouting Brock Otten. “But this year, the debate was more about who actually deserved to be ranked in the first round…there was significantly less table pounding.”

“The way I see it” continues Otten, “there is a clear drop off after about the 20th position. There are unquestionably some solid players available outside this range, but few high upside players. Potential role players are the name of the game this year. As a staff, we’re really hoping some players step up in their respective league playoffs and at the U18’s to help give this draft class a little more excitement.”

You can expect our final draft ranking to be released in late May, coinciding with the release of our annual draft guide.

RANK PLAYER POS TEAM HT/WT DOB GP G A PTS
1 Matthew Schaefer D Erie (OHL) 6-2/180 5-Sep-07 17 7 15 22
2 Michael Misa C Saginaw (OHL) 6-1/185 16-Feb-07 62 59 67 126
3 James Hagens C Boston College (NCAA) 5-10/175 3-Nov-06 35 10 25 35
4 Porter Martone RW Brampton (OHL) 6-3/205 26-Oct-06 54 32 60 92
5 Jackson Smith D Tri-City (WHL) 6-3/195 13-May-07 65 7 41 48
6 Caleb Desnoyers C Moncton (QMJHL) 6-2/180 11-Apr-07 56 35 49 84
7 Victor Eklund LW Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 5-11/160 3-Oct-06 42 19 12 31
8 Anton Frondell C Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 6-1/195 7-May-07 29 11 14 25
9 Roger McQueen C Brandon (WHL) 6-5/195 2-Oct-06 14 9 9 18
10 Lynden Lakovic LW Moose Jaw (WHL) 6-4/190 12-Dec-06 45 24 31 55
11 Radim Mrtka D Seattle (WHL) 6-6/205 9-Jun-07 41 3 31 34
12 Brady Martin C Soo Greyhounds (OHL) 6-0/175 16-Mar-07 55 30 37 67
13 Jake O'Brien C Brantford (OHL) 6-2/170 16-Jun-07 64 32 64 96
14 Cullen Potter C Arizona State (NCAA) 5-10/170 10-Jan-07 34 13 9 22
15 Justin Carbonneau RW Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) 6-1/190 25-Nov-06 61 46 43 89
16 Kashawn Aitcheson D Barrie (OHL) 6-1/195 21-Sep-06 63 25 33 58
17 Cameron Reid D Kitchener (OHL) 6-0/190 8-Apr-07 66 14 39 53
18 Ben Kindel C Calgary (WHL) 5-10/175 19-Apr-07 62 34 64 98
19 Braeden Cootes C Seattle (WHL) 5-11/180 9-Feb-07 58 25 36 61
20 Carter Bear LW Everett (WHL) 6-0/180 4-Nov-06 56 40 42 82
21 Jack Murtagh LW USN U18 (USDP) 6-1/200 22-Aug-07 42 20 24 44
22 Cameron Schmidt RW Vancouver (WHL) 5-7/160 19-Jan-07 59 39 37 76
23 Malcolm Spence LW Erie (OHL) 6-1/200 22-Sep-06 62 32 38 70
24 Joshua Ravensbergen G Prince George (WHL) 6-5/190 27-Nov-06 50 33 12 2.93
25 Jack Nesbitt C Windsor (OHL) 6-4/185 12-Jan-07 63 24 39 63
26 Cole McKinney C USN U18 (USDP) 6-0/200 16-Mar-07 45 21 29 50
27 Eric Nilson C Djurgardens (Swe J20) 5-11/155 11-May-07 37 12 26 38
28 Logan Hensler D Wisconsin (NCAA) 6-2/190 14-Oct-06 32 2 10 12
29 Henry Brzustewicz D London (OHL) 6-2/200 9-Feb-07 65 10 29 39
30 Blake Fiddler D Edmonton (WHL) 6-4/210 9-Jul-07 62 9 22 31
31 Shane Vansaghi RW Michigan State (NCAA) 6-2/210 11-Oct-06 35 6 10 16
32 Bill Zonnon C Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL) 6-1/185 3-Oct-06 62 28 53 81
33 Jakob Ihs Wozniak RW Lulea (Swe J20) 6-2/185 1-Feb-07 40 23 34 57
34 Nathan Behm RW Kamloops (WHL) 6-1/190 18-Apr-07 57 31 35 66
35 Adam Benak C Youngstown (USHL) 5-7/160 10-Apr-07 53 16 38 54
36 Kurban Limatov D MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) 6-3/195 20-Mar-07 45 8 15 23
37 Carter Amico D USN U18 (USDP) 6-5/225 15-Mar-07 13 0 3 3
38 Cole Reschny C Victoria (WHL) 5-10/180 6-Apr-07 60 23 63 86
39 Ivan Ryabkin C Muskegon (USHL) 6-0/195 25-Apr-07 18 11 8 19
40 Milton Gastrin C MoDo Hockey (Swe J20) 6-1/185 2-Jun-07 40 18 24 42
41 Will Moore C USN U18 (USDP) 6-2/175 24-Mar-07 49 21 22 43
42 Sascha Boumedienne D Boston University (NCAA) 6-1/175 17-Jan-07 35 3 9 12
43 Conrad Fondrk C USN U18 (USDP) 6-0/190 1-Jun-07 40 13 14 27
44 Luca Romano C Kitchener (OHL) 5-11/175 25-Jun-07 65 25 26 51
45 Alexander Zharovsky RW Tolpar Ufa (MHL) 6-1/165 22-Feb-07 45 24 26 50
46 Max Psenicka D Portland (WHL) 6-4/175 18-Jan-07 22 1 5 6
47 Jack Ivankovic G Brampton (OHL) 5-11/180 22-May-07 41 23 12 3.13
48 Maxim Agafonov D Tolpar Ufa (MHL) 6-2/195 10-Apr-07 33 6 7 13
49 Kristian Epperson LW Saginaw (OHL) 5-11/180 7-May-06 55 26 51 77
50 Vaclav Nestrasil RW Muskegon (USHL) 6-5/185 6-Apr-07 51 14 19 33
51 Jimmy Lombardi C Flint (OHL) 6-0/180 16-Feb-07 61 13 28 41
52 Gustav Hillstrom C Brynas (Swe J20) 6-1/175 20-Jan-07 43 16 22 38
53 Pyotr Andreyanov G Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL) 6-0/205 22-Jan-07 37 23 6 1.75
54 Arvid Drott RW Djurgardens (Swe J20) 6-0/180 11-Aug-07 40 18 18 36
55 Matthew Gard C Red Deer (WHL) 6-5/190 7-Apr-07 63 18 17 35
56 Ethan Czata C Niagara (OHL) 6-1/175 29-May-07 65 20 33 53
57 Hayden Paupanekis C Spokane-Kelowna (WHL) 6-4/195 4-Feb-07 68 22 19 41
58 Charlie Trethewey D USN U18 (USDP) 6-1/200 2-Aug-07 51 6 12 18
59 Aleksei Medvedev G London (OHL) 6-2/180 10-Sep-07 33 22 7 2.72
60 Daniil Prokhorov RW MHK Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL) 6-5/210 27-Apr-07 41 19 7 26
61 William Horcoff C Michigan (NCAA) 6-5/190 23-Jan-07 18 4 6 10
62 Tyler Hopkins C Kingston (OHL) 6-1/180 23-Jan-07 64 19 31 50
63 Lasse Boelius D Assat (Fin-U20) 6-0/180 16-Mar-07 34 4 14 18
64 Eddie Genborg RW Linkopings (SHL) 6-1/180 20-Apr-07 28 2 0 2
65 Semyon Frolov G MHK Krylia Sovetov (MHL) 6-3/200 17-Jan-07 5 2 2 2.75
66 Ben Kevan RW Des Moines (USHL) 6-0/180 3-Jan-07 46 12 29 41
67 Peyton Kettles D Swift Current (WHL) 6-5/195 1-Sep-07 51 5 9 14
68 Zeb Lindgren D Skelleftea (Swe J20) 6-1/195 14-Apr-07 38 4 15 19
69 Everett Baldwin D St. George's School (USHS-RI) 5-11/175 15-Jan-07 22 10 10 20
70 Ryker Lee RW Madison (USHL) 5-11/180 8-Nov-06 48 27 33 60
71 Michal Svrcek LW Brynas (Swe J20) 5-10/175 26-Jan-07 30 14 16 30
72 Zachary Morin LW Saint John (QMJHL) 6-1/185 25-Jan-07 54 16 20 36
73 Jacob Rombach D Lincoln (USHL) 6-6/200 1-Apr-07 50 3 15 18
74 Alex Huang D Chicoutimi (QMJHL) 6-0/170 30-Jul-07 62 6 33 39
75 Tommy Lafreniere C Kamloops (WHL) 5-11/170 16-Jan-07 66 24 32 56
76 Haoxi (Simon) Wang D Oshawa (OHL) 6-6/210 27-Jul-07 29 0 2 2
77 William Belle RW USN U18 (USDP) 6-3/220 14-Jan-07 50 4 11 15
78 Jan Chovan RW Tappara (Fin-U20) 6-3/185 9-Jan-07 39 11 12 23
79 Luka Radivojevic D Muskegon (USHL) 5-9/165 3-Jan-07 28 1 16 17
80 Shamar Moses RW North Bay (OHL) 6-1/200 6-May-07 58 12 35 47
81 Tomas Pobezal C HK Nitra (Svk) 5-10/180 18-Sep-06 42 15 8 23
82 Francesco Dell'Elce D Massachusetts (NCAA) 6-0/170 23-Jun-05 38 6 16 22
83 Vojtech Cihar LW Karlovy Vary (Czechia) 6-0/175 29-Mar-07 43 4 5 9
84 Petteri Rimpinen G Kiekko-Espoo (Fin) 6-0/175 25-Apr-06 40 16 9 2.36
85 Carlos Handel D Halifax (QMJHL) 6-0/170 31-Mar-07 50 3 23 26
86 Burke Hood G Vancouver (WHL) 6-3/195 30-Apr-07 41 18 13 3.21
87 Melvin Novotny LW Leksands (Swe J20) 6-1/185 3-Apr-07 41 12 26 38
88 Sean Barnhill D Dubuque (USHL) 6-5/205 8-Jan-07 46 4 4 8
89 Tomas Poletin LW Pelicans (Fin-U20) 6-1/200 30-Apr-07 25 13 7 20
90 Roman Bausov D MHK Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL) 6-5/180 28-Apr-07 39 2 9 11
91 Mason Moe C Madison (USHL) 6-1/185 26-Mar-07 41 13 24 37
92 Reese Hamilton D Calgary-Regina (WHL) 6-0/170 26-Mar-07 59 4 10 14
93 Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen D Michigan (NCAA) 6-0/180 18-Dec-06 35 3 6 9
94 Nathan Quinn C Quebec (QMJHL) 5-11/170 29-Aug-07 52 17 29 46
95 Samuel Meloche G Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL) 6-2/190 22-Jul-07 49 29 13 2.96
96 Maceo Phillips D USN U18 (USDP) 6-6/225 25-Feb-07 47 2 4 6
97 Eduard Bondar D Val d'Or (QMJHL) 6-5/195 31-Jan-07 52 3 9 12
98 Sam Laurila D Fargo (USHL) 6-1/185 2-Sep-06 50 7 28 35
99 Owen Conrad D Charlottetown (QMJHL) 6-2/210 10-Mar-07 62 7 19 26
100 Malte Vass D Farjestads (Swe J20) 6-2/185 28-Mar-07 40 2 9 11
HM Karl Annborn D HV 71 (Swe J20) 6-1/185 6-Mar-07 39 3 21 24
HM Lucas Beckman G Baie-Comeau (QMJHL) 6-1/180 23-Aug-07 51 30 18 2.68
HM Carson Cameron D Peterborough (OHL) 6-1/190 27-Jun-07 60 7 16 23
HM Hayden Harsanyi C Medicine Hat-Saskatoon (WHL) 5-10/175 10-Jan-07 34 11 12 23
HM Dmitri Isayev LW Avto Yekaterinburg (MHL) 5-9/150 26-Jun-07 43 22 23 45
HM Atte Joki C Lukko (Fin-U20) 6-1/190 21-Jul-07 40 15 17 32
HM Viktor Klingsell RW Skelleftea (Swe J20) 5-10/185 10-Feb-07 43 17 22 39
HM Nathan Lecompte C Chicoutimi (QMJHL) 5-10/165 19-Jan-07 56 14 35 49
HM Jeremy Loranger C Sherwood Park (BCHL) 5-9/160 15-Jun-07 50 37 57 94
HM Jamiro Reber C HV 71 (SHL) 5-10/170 4-Sep-06 47 8 7 15
HM Grayden Robertson-Palmer C Phillips Academy (USHS-MA) 5-11/195 29-Aug-07 30 16 23 39
HM David Rozsival RW Bili Tygri Liberec (Czechia U20) 6-0/185 1-Jun-07 30 17 20 37
HM Lukas Sawchyn LW Edmonton (WHL) 5-10/175 27-Feb-07 64 15 38 53
HM Theo Stockselius C Djurgardens (Swe J20) 6-2/180 24-Jul-07 40 22 29 51
HM Mason West RW Edina (USHS-MN) 6-5/205 3-Aug-07 31 27 22 49
HM Max Westergard RW Frolunda (Swe J20) 5-11/160 3-Sep-07 41 19 31 50
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2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 64 + Honourable Mentions – PRE-WJC https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-december-ranking-top-64-honourable-mentions-pre-wjc/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-december-ranking-top-64-honourable-mentions-pre-wjc/#respond Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:10:07 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=191327 Read More... from 2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 64 + Honourable Mentions – PRE-WJC

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Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters. Photo courtesy of the OHL.

Ahead of the 2025 World Junior Championships in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, we are updating our draft ranking for the 2025 NHL Draft. For this update, we’re expanding our list to a top 64.

Now sitting atop our list is Erie Otters (and Team Canada) defender Matthew Schaefer, supplanting Boston College (and Team USA) pivot James Hagens. In reality, we like both players and the decision to move Schaefer ahead was not unanimously supported by our scouting team. However, we believe that Schaefer is the complete package as a potential number one defender. Not only does he project as an all-situations minute eater, but he is a natural born leader who could captain and be the face of an NHL franchise too.

While the World Juniors are not always the best showcase for draft eligible talent; it can be tough for underagers to be impactful players. It will be interesting, nonetheless, to see Schaefer (and Porter Martone) square off against Hagens. All three should be playing key roles for potential medal favourites.

Not at the World Juniors is Saginaw center Michael Misa, our third ranked prospect. Misa’s transition back to the middle of the ice has allowed him to become one of the CHL’s most dynamic and highest scoring players. His skating ability, tenacity, and creativity allow him to impact the game in so many different ways and we see him as a potential franchise center.

The previously mentioned Porter Martone rounds out our top four, a group that we consider to have separated themselves from the pack to create a clear grouping of potential first overall candidates. Martone is a pesky power forward who is likely to develop into a first line winger who can play in all situations for his future NHL team. It’s rare to find a winger who can be on the ice whether his team is down a goal or up a goal with a minute to go.

Filling up the rest of our top ten are Brandon center Roger McQueen, Swedish winger Victor Eklund, Tri-City (WHL) defenseman Jackson Smith, Swedish forward Anton Frondell, Moncton pivot Caleb Desnoyers, and Moose Jaw power winger Lynden Lakovic. McQueen is the prototype of the modern-day top NHL pivot, with size and skill, however, injuries have disrupted his development and that is cause for concern. He is slated to return to action around February and will need a huge finish to his WHL season in order to push his way back into top four consideration. Anton Frondell is another player worth discussing as the previously hyped forward has also struggled with injuries and consistency. He has the kind of well-rounded game that makes him a potentially valuable pro player, but have we previously over projected his potential upside?

Among the highest risers on this list are Kitchener defender Cameron Reid, Barrie defender Kashawn Aitcheson, NTDP winger Jack Murtagh, Swedish pivot Eric Nilson, and Kamloops winger Nathan Behm. Reid has been one of the highest scoring defenders in the OHL this year with the surprising Kitchener Rangers; his mobility and two-way sense are very impressive. Aitcheson has really impressed us with the improvements made to his decision making and puck play, helping to elevate his potential upside as a top four, throwback defender. Murtagh has been the best player on the U.S. NTDP U18 team this year and projects as a Ryan Leonard type of top six complementary piece at the NHL level. Eric Nilson, the son of former Calgary Flame and Florida Panther pivot Marcus Nilson, is the same kind of determined two-way player that his father was, however, he’s shown positive progression offensively that has us reevaluating his upside. Lastly, Behm is the kind of intriguing athlete on the wing that NHL teams have been focusing on developing in recent years. There’s room for improvement in a lot of areas, but when he puts everything together and grows into his frame, he could be a real solid top six asset.

One of the biggest fallers on our list is Russian forward Ivan Ryabkin. He remains in our first round for now, but we would be lying if we weren’t concerned about the kind of season he has had and the lack of progression he has shown. As is, his game needs to mature a lot in order for him to be a successful NHL player. The upside is still incredibly tantalizing, but at some point, his lack of production and development needs to be held against him.

You can expect our next ranking sometime early in the new year as we expand our midseason list to a top 100, with honorable mentions.

RANK PLAYER POS TEAM HT/WT DOB GP G A PTS PIM
1 Matthew Schaefer D Erie (OHL) 6-2/180 5-Sep-07 17 7 15 22 8
2 James Hagens C Boston College (NCAA) 5-10/170 3-Nov-06 16 5 15 20 4
3 Michael Misa C Saginaw (OHL) 5-11/160 16-Feb-07 30 30 31 61 21
4 Porter Martone RW Brampton (OHL) 6-3/195 26-Oct-06 26 21 33 54 41
5 Roger McQueen C Brandon (WHL) 6-5/190 2-Oct-06 8 8 3 11 18
6 Victor Eklund LW Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 5-11/160 3-Oct-06 24 8 7 15 31
7 Jackson Smith D Tri-City (WHL) 6-3/190 13-May-07 30 2 22 24 26
8 Anton Frondell C Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 6-0/195 7-May-07 7 1 2 3 6
9 Caleb Desnoyers C Moncton (QMJHL) 6-2/190 11-Apr-07 26 17 25 42 14
10 Lynden Lakovic LW Moose Jaw (WHL) 6-4/190 12-Dec-06 29 16 22 38 4
11 Radim Mrtka D Seattle (WHL) 6-6/200 9-Jun-07 9 2 5 7 10
12 Justin Carbonneau RW Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) 6-1/190 25-Nov-06 31 22 23 45 26
13 Malcolm Spence LW Erie (OHL) 6-2/200 22-Sep-06 29 15 22 37 20
14 Cameron Schmidt RW Vancouver (WHL) 5-8/150 19-Jan-07 26 24 14 38 16
15 Cullen Potter C Arizona State (NCAA) 5-9/160 10-Jan-07 16 4 4 8 6
16 Brady Martin C Soo Greyhounds (OHL) 6-0/175 16-Mar-07 28 15 14 29 42
17 Cameron Reid D Kitchener (OHL) 5-11/160 8-Apr-07 33 6 23 29 20
18 Kashawn Aitcheson D Barrie (OHL) 6-1/190 21-Sep-06 29 10 13 23 48
19 Logan Hensler D Wisconsin (NCAA) 6-2/185 14-Oct-06 17 0 7 7 19
20 Jack Murtagh C USN U18 (USDP) 6-0/180 22-Aug-07 20 10 12 22 10
21 Joshua Ravensbergen G Prince George (WHL) 6-4/180 27-Nov-06 24 16 4 3.06 0.899
22 Carter Bear C Everett (WHL) 6-0/175 4-Nov-06 26 22 24 46 22
23 Jake O'Brien C Brantford (OHL) 6-2/170 16-Jun-07 33 18 23 41 8
24 Luca Romano RW Kitchener (OHL) 5-11/170 25-Jun-07 32 14 15 29 8
25 Blake Fiddler D Edmonton (WHL) 6-3/195 9-Jul-07 27 4 8 12 18
26 Ivan Ryabkin C MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) 6-0/170 25-Apr-07 15 1 11 12 26
27 Ben Kindel C Calgary (WHL) 5-10/165 19-Apr-07 29 19 27 46 18
28 Eric Nilson C Djurgardens (Swe J20) 5-11/155 11-May-07 23 8 20 28 14
29 Braeden Cootes C Seattle (WHL) 5-11/170 9-Feb-07 29 13 17 30 10
30 Nathan Behm RW Kamloops (WHL) 6-2/185 18-Apr-07 31 18 19 37 10
31 Kurban Limatov D MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) 6-4/185 20-Mar-07 26 5 11 16 16
32 Will Moore C USN U18 (USDP) 6-2/160 24-Mar-07 29 11 11 22 2
33 Henry Brzustewicz D London (OHL) 6-1/195 9-Feb-07 32 5 15 20 45
34 Jack Nesbitt C Windsor (OHL) 6-4/175 12-Jan-07 33 13 16 29 30
35 Cole Reschny C Victoria (WHL) 5-9/160 6-Apr-07 29 11 27 38 28
36 Shane Vansaghi RW Michigan State (NCAA) 6-1/190 11-Oct-06 16 2 9 11 16
37 Arvid Drott RW Djurgardens (Swe J20) 6-1/180 11-Aug-07 24 13 12 25 10
38 Adam Benak C Youngstown (USHL) 5-7/160 10-Apr-07 26 8 16 24 20
39 Tomas Pobezal C HK Nitra (Svk) 5-10/170 18-Sep-06 26 12 5 17 14
40 Milton Gastrin C MoDo Hockey (Swe J20) 6-2/180 2-Jun-07 20 7 12 19 12
41 Jakob Ihs Wozniak LW Lulea (Swe J20) 6-3/180 1-Feb-07 22 7 21 28 6
42 Carter Amico D USN U18 (USDP) 6-5/205 15-Mar-07 13 0 3 3 10
43 Cole McKinney C USN U18 (USDP) 6-0/190 16-Mar-07 26 8 15 23 21
44 Ben Kevan RW Des Moines (USHL) 5-11/165 3-Jan-07 16 6 10 16 23
45 Conrad Fondrk C USN U18 (USDP) 5-11/175 1-Jun-07 28 6 12 18 2
46 Vojtech Cihar LW Karlovy Vary (Czechia) 6-1/170 29-Mar-07 25 3 4 7 6
47 Luka Radivojevic D Muskegon (USHL) 5-10/155 3-Jan-07 19 0 10 10 8
48 Alex Huang D Chicoutimi (QMJHL) 6-0/160 30-Jul-07 31 1 13 14 8
49 Charlie Trethewey D USN U18 (USDP) 6-1/190 2-Aug-07 29 4 6 10 16
50 Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen D Michigan (NCAA) 6-0/170 18-Dec-06 18 1 4 5 2
51 Pyotr Andreyanov G Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL) 6-0/205 22-Jan-07 17 10 3 1.83 0.942
52 Zeb Lindgren D Skelleftea (Swe J20) 6-2/175 14-Apr-07 22 2 9 11 20
53 Haoxi (Simon) Wang D King Rebellion (OJHL) 6-6/210 27-Jul-07 35 3 15 18 69
54 Maxim Agafonov D Tolpar Ufa (MHL) 6-0/180 10-Apr-07 20 4 3 7 16
55 Bill Zonnon LW Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL) 6-2/180 3-Oct-06 31 16 29 45 18
56 Ethan Czata C Niagara (OHL) 6-0/160 29-May-07 33 15 20 35 35
57 Sascha Boumedienne D Boston University (NCAA) 6-1/170 17-Jan-07 16 0 3 3 23
58 Peyton Kettles D Swift Current (WHL) 6-4/185 1-Sep-07 20 2 3 5 34
59 Eddie Genborg LW Linkopings (Swe J20) 6-2/185 20-Apr-07 22 16 13 29 22
60 Zachary Morin LW Saint John (QMJHL) 6-1/185 25-Jan-07 25 10 14 24 2
61 Jimmy Lombardi C Flint (OHL) 6-0/180 16-Feb-07 32 5 13 18 17
62 Jack Ivankovic G Brampton (OHL) 5-11/180 22-May-07 21 12 7 3.49 0.898
63 Carlos Handel D Halifax (QMJHL) 6-0/160 31-Mar-07 28 2 9 11 8
64 Jan Chovan C Tappara (Fin-U20) 6-2/180 9-Jan-07 25 9 8 17 4
HM William Belle RW USN U18 (USDP) 6-4/215 14-Jan-07 28 2 5 7 18
HM Lasse Boelius D Assat (Fin-U20) 6-0/180 16-Mar-07 23 3 8 11 6
HM Donny Bracco D USN U18 (USDP) 5-10/160 26-Jul-07 29 0 9 9 6
HM Carson Cameron D Peterborough (OHL) 6-1/175 27-Jun-07 33 5 9 14 14
HM Kieren Dervin C Kingston (OHL) 6-1/170 31-Mar-07 1 0 0 0 0
HM Semyon Frolov G MHK Spartak Moskva (MHL) 6-3/170 17-Jan-07 4 2 1 1.48 0.945
HM Matthew Gard C Red Deer (WHL) 6-4/190 7-Apr-07 31 8 11 19 36
HM Emile Guite LW Chicoutimi (QMJHL) 6-1/165 31-May-07 30 6 5 11 8
HM Love Harenstam G Skelleftea (Swe J20) 6-1/185 18-Jan-07 8 3 5 3.52 0.899
HM Lev Katzin C Guelph (OHL) 5-8/170 13-May-07 8 5 10 15 0
HM Viktor Klingsell LW Skelleftea (Swe J20) 5-10/170 10-Feb-07 24 7 10 17 0
HM Ryker Lee RW Madison (USHL) 5-9/150 8-Nov-06 20 10 14 24 4
HM Samuel Meloche G Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL) 6-3/195 22-Jul-07 27 14 6 2.75 0.898
HM L.J. Mooney RW USN U18 (USDP) 5-7/150 8-Mar-07 14 1 9 10 4
HM Tomas Poletin C Pelicans (Fin-U20) 6-1/195 30-Apr-07 15 11 3 14 6
HM Max Psenicka D HC Plzen (Czechia) 6-4/175 18-Jan-07 13 1 0 1 0
HM Nathan Quinn C Quebec (QMJHL) 5-11/160 29-Aug-07 30 11 21 32 13
HM Sam Spehar C Sioux Falls (USHL) 5-10/170 20-Apr-07 20 8 8 16 2
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2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 32 – PRE-WJC https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-december-ranking-top-32-pre-wjc/ https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2025-nhl-draft-december-ranking-top-32-pre-wjc/#respond Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:10:01 +0000 https://www.mckeenshockey.com/?p=191320 Read More... from 2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 32 – PRE-WJC

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Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters. Photo courtesy of the OHL.

Ahead of the 2025 World Junior Championships in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, we are updating our draft ranking for the 2025 NHL Draft. For this update, we’re expanding our list to a top 64.

Now sitting atop our list is Erie Otters (and Team Canada) defender Matthew Schaefer, supplanting Boston College (and Team USA) pivot James Hagens. In reality, we like both players and the decision to move Schaefer ahead was not unanimously supported by our scouting team. However, we believe that Schaefer is the complete package as a potential number one defender. Not only does he project as an all-situations minute eater, but he is a natural born leader who could captain and be the face of an NHL franchise too.

While the World Juniors are not always the best showcase for draft eligible talent; it can be tough for underagers to be impactful players. It will be interesting, nonetheless, to see Schaefer (and Porter Martone) square off against Hagens. All three should be playing key roles for potential medal favourites.

Not at the World Juniors is Saginaw center Michael Misa, our third ranked prospect. Misa’s transition back to the middle of the ice has allowed him to become one of the CHL’s most dynamic and highest scoring players. His skating ability, tenacity, and creativity allow him to impact the game in so many different ways and we see him as a potential franchise center.

The previously mentioned Porter Martone rounds out our top four, a group that we consider to have separated themselves from the pack to create a clear grouping of potential first overall candidates. Martone is a pesky power forward who is likely to develop into a first line winger who can play in all situations for his future NHL team. It’s rare to find a winger who can be on the ice whether his team is down a goal or up a goal with a minute to go.

Filling up the rest of our top ten are Brandon center Roger McQueen, Swedish winger Victor Eklund, Tri-City (WHL) defenseman Jackson Smith, Swedish forward Anton Frondell, Moncton pivot Caleb Desnoyers, and Moose Jaw power winger Lynden Lakovic. McQueen is the prototype of the modern-day top NHL pivot, with size and skill, however, injuries have disrupted his development and that is cause for concern. He is slated to return to action around February and will need a huge finish to his WHL season in order to push his way back into top four consideration. Anton Frondell is another player worth discussing as the previously hyped forward has also struggled with injuries and consistency. He has the kind of well-rounded game that makes him a potentially valuable pro player, but have we previously over projected his potential upside?

Among the highest risers on this list are Kitchener defender Cameron Reid, Barrie defender Kashawn Aitcheson, NTDP winger Jack Murtagh, Swedish pivot Eric Nilson, and Kamloops winger Nathan Behm. Reid has been one of the highest scoring defenders in the OHL this year with the surprising Kitchener Rangers; his mobility and two-way sense are very impressive. Aitcheson has really impressed us with the improvements made to his decision making and puck play, helping to elevate his potential upside as a top four, throwback defender. Murtagh has been the best player on the U.S. NTDP U18 team this year and projects as a Ryan Leonard type of top six complementary piece at the NHL level. Eric Nilson, the son of former Calgary Flame and Florida Panther pivot Marcus Nilson, is the same kind of determined two-way player that his father was, however, he’s shown positive progression offensively that has us reevaluating his upside. Lastly, Behm is the kind of intriguing athlete on the wing that NHL teams have been focusing on developing in recent years. There’s room for improvement in a lot of areas, but when he puts everything together and grows into his frame, he could be a real solid top six asset.

One of the biggest fallers on our list is Russian forward Ivan Ryabkin. He remains in our first round for now, but we would be lying if we weren’t concerned about the kind of season he has had and the lack of progression he has shown. As is, his game needs to mature a lot in order for him to be a successful NHL player. The upside is still incredibly tantalizing, but at some point, his lack of production and development needs to be held against him.

You can expect our next ranking sometime early in the new year as we expand our midseason list to a top 100, with honorable mentions. The top 32 are available to all in this article. Subscribers can access the top 64 plus honourable mentions by linking here.

RANK PLAYER POS TEAM HT/WT DOB GP G A PTS PIM
1 Matthew Schaefer D Erie (OHL) 6-2/180 5-Sep-07 17 7 15 22 8
2 James Hagens C Boston College (NCAA) 5-10/170 3-Nov-06 16 5 15 20 4
3 Michael Misa C Saginaw (OHL) 5-11/160 16-Feb-07 30 30 31 61 21
4 Porter Martone RW Brampton (OHL) 6-3/195 26-Oct-06 26 21 33 54 41
5 Roger McQueen C Brandon (WHL) 6-5/190 2-Oct-06 8 8 3 11 18
6 Victor Eklund LW Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 5-11/160 3-Oct-06 24 8 7 15 31
7 Jackson Smith D Tri-City (WHL) 6-3/190 13-May-07 30 2 22 24 26
8 Anton Frondell C Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan) 6-0/195 7-May-07 7 1 2 3 6
9 Caleb Desnoyers C Moncton (QMJHL) 6-2/190 11-Apr-07 26 17 25 42 14
10 Lynden Lakovic LW Moose Jaw (WHL) 6-4/190 12-Dec-06 29 16 22 38 4
11 Radim Mrtka D Seattle (WHL) 6-6/200 9-Jun-07 9 2 5 7 10
12 Justin Carbonneau RW Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL) 6-1/190 25-Nov-06 31 22 23 45 26
13 Malcolm Spence LW Erie (OHL) 6-2/200 22-Sep-06 29 15 22 37 20
14 Cameron Schmidt RW Vancouver (WHL) 5-8/150 19-Jan-07 26 24 14 38 16
15 Cullen Potter C Arizona State (NCAA) 5-9/160 10-Jan-07 16 4 4 8 6
16 Brady Martin C Soo Greyhounds (OHL) 6-0/175 16-Mar-07 28 15 14 29 42
17 Cameron Reid D Kitchener (OHL) 5-11/160 8-Apr-07 33 6 23 29 20
18 Kashawn Aitcheson D Barrie (OHL) 6-1/190 21-Sep-06 29 10 13 23 48
19 Logan Hensler D Wisconsin (NCAA) 6-2/185 14-Oct-06 17 0 7 7 19
20 Jack Murtagh C USN U18 (USDP) 6-0/180 22-Aug-07 20 10 12 22 10
21 Joshua Ravensbergen G Prince George (WHL) 6-4/180 27-Nov-06 24 16 4 3.06 0.899
22 Carter Bear C Everett (WHL) 6-0/175 4-Nov-06 26 22 24 46 22
23 Jake O'Brien C Brantford (OHL) 6-2/170 16-Jun-07 33 18 23 41 8
24 Luca Romano RW Kitchener (OHL) 5-11/170 25-Jun-07 32 14 15 29 8
25 Blake Fiddler D Edmonton (WHL) 6-3/195 9-Jul-07 27 4 8 12 18
26 Ivan Ryabkin C MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) 6-0/170 25-Apr-07 15 1 11 12 26
27 Ben Kindel C Calgary (WHL) 5-10/165 19-Apr-07 29 19 27 46 18
28 Eric Nilson C Djurgardens (Swe J20) 5-11/155 11-May-07 23 8 20 28 14
29 Braeden Cootes C Seattle (WHL) 5-11/170 9-Feb-07 29 13 17 30 10
30 Nathan Behm RW Kamloops (WHL) 6-2/185 18-Apr-07 31 18 19 37 10
31 Kurban Limatov D MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL) 6-4/185 20-Mar-07 26 5 11 16 16
32 Will Moore C USN U18 (USDP) 6-2/160 24-Mar-07 29 11 11 22 2
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