Florian Schenk – McKeen's Hockey

2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW: PART TWO – Our scouts provide their biggest surprises and disappointments

Tue, 06 May 2025 15:43:57 +0000

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)

2024 HLINKA GRETZKY CUP: Three standout performances by country

Adam Tate — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 20:14:30 +0000

The unofficial start of the scouting season, the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup is a summer tournament that gives scouts and teams their first looks at the players to see how they’ve improved with a summer of training. This year’s tournament took place from August 5th to 10th in Edmonton, Alberta, and McKeen’s Hockey was there to take in the action and get some early impressions of the players.

The Hlinka Gretzky Cup is an international tournament for U-18 players looking to jump start their seasons, represent their countries, and show off their current level of play. Though not sanctioned by the IIHF, it’s still a prominent event for NHL clubs, and is well attended by scouts and team management. The participating players are generally in their draft eligible seasons. Some teams may bring 16-year-olds to the tournament if there is room on the roster and their play warrants inclusion.

This year’s tournament was won by Canada, with Czechia taking the silver medal. They were the two best teams of the tournament, with both squads going undefeated in the group stage. Sweden won the bronze medal game over the USA. Slovakia had a good tournament only losing to Canada and Sweden (in overtime). Finland posted a disappointing result, only winning their last game of the tournament. Germany only won one game as well, but it was against Finland, and the Germans seemed like they were on the cusp of better things. Finally, Switzerland struggled at the tournament and didn’t have the talent level to match the other teams, only scoring five goals in four games.

Here are our three Standouts from each team. Included with each is a video highlight from their play at the tournament.

Canada

This year’s squad from Canada was loaded with talent, as is usually the case. Led by Captain Matthew Schaefer, the team rarely struggled and deserved the Gold Medal. The team was loaded with upwards of six possible first round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft (not to mention Gavin McKenna, who’s only eligible to be drafted in 2026), was well balanced, and most players saw their fair share of ice in front of the scouts. It’s almost unfair to only pick three standouts.

Matthew Schaefer - Defense

Schaefer turned this tournament into his coming out party to the world. The smooth skating, two-way defender was everything for Canada. He played in all situations, frequently double shifted, and was one point off the team scoring lead. He was dynamic on the ice, using his skating to play in all parts of the offensive zone. He was a force defensively, showing some physicality to go along with excellent positioning and stick disruption. He may have played his way into a top three pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/matthew_schaefer_-_3rd_period_4_7_-_4_29.mp4

This clip shows a little of everything that makes Schaefer (#5 in red) so great. From helping win the faceoff in his own zone, to taking advantage of a mistake by his opponent to create a zone exit and leading the rush for Canada, to the nice drop pass in the offensive zone, to getting back into position to have an effective pinch to keep the puck in the offensive zone for longer. All while killing 20 seconds of a Czechia power play.

Gavin McKenna - Forward

By the already lofty standards that he’s set, McKenna had a good, but not great, tournament. He was tied for Canada’s goal scoring lead, and shared second place in the team’s points race with Schaefer. He was dynamic with the puck, often playing a game of keep away with his opponents. He used his skating and puck handling skills to circle the offensive zone, looking for weaknesses. His shot was hard and accurate, often picking top corners of the net. He flashed his next level talent, but didn’t dominate as perhaps expected, even as a 16-year-old.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gavin_mckenna_-_1st_period_18_26_-_18_38.mp4

This is an otherworldly shot from McKenna on the power play for Canada. Picking the top short side top corner on a shot from that distance is not a skill that every player possesses.

Caleb Desnoyers - Forward

While not the most offensively talented forward on Team Canada, Desnoyers was relied upon in all situations, and was often used as its top Center. He was a jack of all trades for Canada, and it suited his skill set. That being said, he was still dangerous on the ice and produced at a point per game pace, with a goal and four assists. He was strong on the puck and hard to play against in all three zones. Desnoyers should hear his name called in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft and will likely be the first player from the QMJHL taken.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/caleb_desnoyers_-_1st_period_14_3_-_14_16.mp4

This clip shows Desnoyers operating on the power play, taking the puck down below the goal line and then taking advantage of the defender’s opened up triangle.

Czechia

Team Czechia’s goal this year was to win the tournament, after coming in second place to Canada last summer. The players made it a point to let people know that they wanted “revenge” on Canada for last year’s loss. They brought a top-heavy roster loaded with offensive talent with the likes of Adam Benak, Vit Zahejsky, Adam Novotny (2026 draft eligible), and Tomas Poletin. Unfortunately, they were unable to win the big prize and settled for Silver for the second year in a row.

Adam Benak - Forward

Easily one of the most gifted offensive players in this year’s tournament, Benak led the Czechs in scoring and was second in overall tournament scoring. Benak’s footspeed and shot were outstanding in this tournament, and he was difficult to contain at all times. You could see the determination in his play every game, and he led the Czechs by example. Despite being a smaller player, it wouldn't surprise to see him selected in the first round of the 2025 Draft due to his offensive talent. He’s going to play in the USHL with Youngstown this year, and a good season will help his draft stock.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/adam_benak_-_2nd_period_3_58_-_4_11.mp4

Another player with a next level shot, this top corner short side goal by Benak is almost impossible to stop.

Radim Mrtka - Defense

The large (6’6” / 198 lbs) right-handed defenseman got better with every game and was a solid two-way defender. While he didn’t score much, his zone transition work with his skating and passing was really good. He was strong in his own end, using his positioning, size, and length to disrupt passing lanes. In the offensive zone, he activated from the blue line often and created chaos for opposing defenses. Already in consideration for a mid-round pick in the 2025 Draft, Mrtka may move into the first round if he continues to play this well in the regular season. Mrkta may also jump over to the WHL and join the Seattle Thunderbirds this season if he’s not playing in the men’s league in Czechia.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/radim_mrtka_-_1st_period_0_31_-_1_6.mp4

This clip is from the first minute of the Gold Medal game against Canada. Mrtka (#5 in white) helps lead the rush, something he got more and more comfortable doing as the tournament went along, and then sets the tone by absolutely crushing a Canadian player in their own zone.

Vit Zahejsky - Forward

Another Czech player that improved during the tournament, Zahejsky was promoted to the top line after the group stage and posted 7 points (3g - 4a) in 5 games. A slick offensive player that was used on the power play and 4 on 4 situations, Zahejsky showed good offensive awareness with both his passing and his shooting. Another potential mid-round pick who could move up if this level of play continues, Zahejsky will play for Kamloops in the WHL this season. He should see plenty of ice time and opportunity there.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/vit_zahejsky_-_1st_period_33_40_-_33_53.mp4

Czechia’s power play was lethal in this tournament, and it’s goals like this one from Zahejsky that made it so.

Sweden

While it would be hard to call Sweden’s Bronze medal a disappointment, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if the team felt that way. It’s still a step in the right direction for a program that didn’t medal in last year’s tournament, but with talent up front and in goal, more could’ve been possible. Anton Frondell, Sweden’s best prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft, was unable to take part due to injury, and top prospects Sascha Boumedienne and Jakob Ihs-Wozniak had disappointing tournaments compared to what was expected of them. Despite all of that, Sweden only lost to Canada in the group stage and Czechia in the semi-final.

Viktor Klingsell - Forward

With Frondell unable to play, Klingsell took it upon himself to help lead the team, and was the top scoring forward in the tournament. His 12 points (4g - 8a) were one point better than Czechia’s Adam Benak. Klingsell was a constant at both even strength and on the power play, and had points in all but one of Sweden’s games. His game shined in the offensive zone where he was able to use his hockey sense to create for his teammates.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/viktor_klingsell_-_1st_period_28_16_-_28_29.mp4

Klingsell’s (#25 in yellow) vision and offensive awareness are the highlights in this clip as he makes a nice pass over to Ivar Stenberg for an easy goal.

Ivar Stenberg - Forward

Another consistently good offensive player for Sweden, Stenberg was tied for third in scoring for the tournament with Milton Gastrin. A late 2007 birthday, Stenberg isn’t eligible for the NHL Draft until 2026, but his age didn’t stop him from standing out on a line with Klingsell and Gastrin. Stenberg will likely start his regular season in Sweden’s J20 league and is expected to be a high level prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ivar_stenberg_-_2nd_period_18_7_-_18_20.mp4

This is a really nice goal from Stenberg (#15 in yellow). He identifies time and space for himself in the offensive zone, and then loads up a hard and accurate wrist shot that goes into the top corner.

Milton Gastrin - Forward

The center of the line with Klingsell and Stenberg, Gastrin was still a factor despite being a bit less heralded than his linemates. He, perhaps more so than his linemates, took advantage of their big game versus Switzerland to add to his point total. That being said, he was still one of the team’s better playmakers in this tournament.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/milton_gastrin_-_1st_period_27_11_-_27_24.mp4

This is a great pass from Gastrin (#22 in yellow) to a streaking Klingsell for a goal.

USA

Ending the tournament just outside of the medals, it’s hard to consider the result a failure by Team USA as they generally don’t bring their best prospects to this event. The USNTDP players don’t play here, so it can be hard for them to compete against nations that bring their best of the best, like Canada and Czechia. Despite that, they were still in a tier above nations like Slovakia and Finland.

Matthew Lansing - Forward

Lansing was USA’s top center and one of, if not their best, forwards. He was used in all situations by the coaching staff and was usually one of the first players over the boards for power plays and penalty kills. As good a playmaker as a goal scorer, he used his skating to slash into the offensive zone with the puck and get defenses to commit to him to open up passing lanes. He was equally as creative taking the puck to the net for his own scoring chances where he had a bit more success. Not considered a top draft prospect currently, this tournament along with a strong season in the USHL might make teams take more notice.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/matthew_lansing_-_2nd_period_8_3_-_8_16.mp4

Lansing’s (#22 in blue) display of deft pucking handling along with some good skating allow him to keep this puck all the way to Sweden’s goal where he takes advantage of their goaltender committing first.

Blake Fiddler - Defense

The Captain of this US team, Fiddler was asked to play a defensive defenseman role by the coaching staff, and he played the role very well. The right handed defender snuffed out plays with good gap control, stick work, and physicality throughout the tournament. He showed he’s capable of defending at a higher level than seen in his first season in the WHL, and it bodes well for his draft stock. He even found opportunities to rush the puck from his own end and scored a nice goal. There were rumblings from the media that this tournament may have raised his stock to the first round of the NHL Draft.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/blake_fiddler_-_1st_period_2_55_-_3_8.mp4

The aforementioned nice goal. Fiddler (#3 in white) creates a zone exit and a zone entry with the puck on his stick, dangles a German defender, and then makes a power forward type move to the net to score.

Ben Kevan - Forward

This spot could’ve easily belonged to Sam Spehar or Alexander Donovan, but Ben Kevan’s consistently high compete level makes the selection easier. Kevan was used in all situations by the US coaching staff, and was noticeable every game they played. He played with pace and was always looking to be on the right side of the puck. His skating ability was one of his better traits. He had a couple of multi point games as well. Kevan is expected to be a mid-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, but a season where he plays like he did in this tournament might see his stock rise.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/usa_ben_kevan_01.mp4

This clip is a little longer but is a good example of Kevan’s (#7 in white) overall game. He was always looking to disrupt opposition puck carriers while getting himself into advantageous positions in the offensive zone.

Slovakia

Winners of the fifth place game in this year’s tournament, Slovakia didn’t have as many players with 2025 NHL Draft pedigree as the nations that finished ahead of it. That being said, they do have some standout players such as Jan Chovan, as well as some that could rise in the draft rankings over the course of the season such as Andreas Straka and Tobias Tomik. They have some dark horse players eligible for the draft as well that stood out in this tournament.

Jan Chovan - Forward

Easily Slovakia’s best forward in the tournament, and likely its best player, Chovan was their top line center and played in all situations. He had points in all of Slovakia’s games and used good footspeed to get up and down the ice. He possesses good size and skating ability. He showed good playmaking skills in the offensive zone, and some defensive play in the neutral and defensive zones where he got himself into passing lanes regularly. He plays in Finland during the regular season, and will either start his season with Tappara’s U20 team or join the Sudbury Wolves of the OHL. If he has a good season, it’s possible to see him picked in the second or third round of the 2025 Draft.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/jan_chovan_-_3rd_period_4_53_-_5_6.mp4

This is a really nice pass from Chovan (#26 in blue) on Slovakia’s power play. It displays really nice vision and awareness on Chovan’s part. The goal scorer may never score an easier goal in his life.

Michal Svrcek - Forward

Playing on Jan Chovan’s wing, Svrcek was the recipient of much of Chovan’s playmaking, and scored goals in three of Slovakia’s four games. He scored the overtime game winner in the fifth place game. He has really nice puck skills and can get creative in the offensive zone. He’s played his regular season games in Sweden the last two years, moving up Brynas’s system, and he’ll likely start with their J20 team this year.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/michal_svrcek_-_1st_overtime_3_2_-_3_15.mp4

This clip is a good example of Svrcek’s (#10 in blue) ability to score goals. Leading the rush and starting the give and go on a two on one is a good way to get the lone defender moving and the goaltender scrambling.

Michal Pradel - Goaltender

It might seem a bit unusual to list a fifth place team goaltender as a standout, but Pradel was really good for a Slovakian squad that was underwhelming defensively. He was very good in two of the three games he played in, but was pulled in the game against Canada. He battles hard, covers the bottom of the net well, and has good lateral movement. He has great size for a goaltender at 6’4” / 194 lbs. It will be interesting to see how he develops over the year in Europe and see if he can play his way into a mid to late round 2025 NHL Draft selection.

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This video of Pradel making some saves using good positioning only tells half the story here. With Sweden already up by a goal mid-way through the first period, Pradel needs to shut the door to keep Slovakia from falling too far behind in the game, and in this series of chances, he’s able to do that.

Germany

Starting the tournament with an overtime win over Finland, Germany must’ve been thrilled with the win knowing that they had to face Czechia and the USA in the group stage. The win got them into the fifth place game where they were downed by Slovakia, but it proved to be a worthwhile tournament for the Germans overall. Some of their more hyped prospects like David Lewandowski and Max Bleicher had decent tournaments, but the best Germans were some of their lesser regarded players. If they can continue to improve, this year’s class of German players could see a few more players picked in the NHL Draft.

Carlos Handel - Defense

Handel was Germany’s best two-way defender and his transition play from zone to zone either by carrying or passing the puck was a highlight for this year’s team. A good skater with and without the puck, he was able to activate offensively by using his speed. His puck skills are a plus as well. His defensive play will need to be an area of focus moving forward. Handel was drafted by Moncton of the QMJHL in this summer’s Import Draft, and it’s expected he will play there. A good season in the Q will help his draft stock.

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Perhaps the best play of Handel’s (#7 in black) tournament, his ability to transition the puck while leading the rush, is something scouts saw often from him. The goal at the end is really nice as well as he loads up a wrist shot to pick a top corner.

Dustin Willhoft - Forward

Willhoft was one of the smaller players at the tournament this year, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for in skill and desire. He skates very well and uses his foot speed and pace to slash into the offensive zone with the puck where he looks to make plays or take the puck to the net. He’s not a perimeter player and will go to the slot with and without the puck. His play in his own zone isn’t as polished as his offensive play and he struggles a bit with a lack of length due to his height. He’s a notable prospect for the Germans, but it would likely take a massive breakout season to put him on the NHL’s radar for the Draft.

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This is one of Willhoft’s nicer goals and he’s able to elevate the puck even with the Czech defender harassing him.

Gustavs & Rihards Griva - Forwards

Is it a cheat to include the twins together as one standout player? Yes, probably, but these two were attached at the hip and were tied for the scoring lead for Germany in the tournament. They finished with four points each (both had 2g - 2a) and they bookended Germany’s goal scoring with the first and last goals of the tournament. They also combined for the game winning goal against Finland, and in this case, that’s enough to be a combined standout for this squad. They will likely continue to play together in Germany this upcoming season as they try to raise their draft profiles.

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This play has Gustavs (#28 in white) using his hockey sense to steal the pass from the goaltender and get the puck to Rihards (#27) in the slot. Rihard’s shot is good and finds the top corner of the net. Any goal a twin scored, the other had an assist.

Finland

A bit of a disappointing tournament for Finland this year, only managing a seventh place finish. There was a lack of high end offense and star power on this year’s team and they averaged only a goal per game in the group stage of the tournament. They broke the seventh place game open, scoring five goals against Switzerland, but by then the tournament had gotten away from them. Jesper Kotajarvi, their best prospect heading into the tournament, struggled and wasn’t the effective mobile, puck moving defenseman that was expected for the most part.

Patrik Kerkola - Goaltender

Just on statistics alone, Kerkola was one of the better goaltenders of the tournament, despite his team’s record and overall play. He had the third best save % (.913) and third best goals against (2.31) of the goaltenders who started most of their team’s games. More so, behind a less than stellar Finnish defense, Kerkola’s steady play stood out and he gave his team a chance to win all of the games he started. The netminder has strong fundamentals and could start his season with Barrie in the OHL, who took him 75th in this summer’s CHL Import Draft.

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This is a good breakaway save by Kerkola, especially given that the puck was turned over in his zone, not giving him much time to prepare.

Max Westergard - Forward

One of the best Finnish skaters at this year’s tournament, Westergard led the team in goal scoring with three, scoring in all of their games but one. A strong skater with good pace, Westergard is able to get up and down the ice quickly with or without the puck. He’s skilled with the puck and can flash in the offensive zone when he has some room to make a play. He played in Sweden last year and was very good in their J18 league. With a birthday close to the cutoff for the 2025 NHL Draft, it’ll be interesting to see how he fairs if he continues to play with Frolunda’s J20 team.

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This is the easiest, but also nicest, goal Westergard scored in the tournament this year.

Lasse Boelius - Defense

The best overall defender for Finland in the tournament, Boelius was able to use his skating to be an effective transitional defenseman. He was noticeable for all the right reasons when bringing the puck out of his own end, either with his skating or passing. He was used on the power play and showed good passing touch. His play in his own zone needs improvement as he struggled with puck battles along the boards and wasn’t very physical anywhere in the zone.

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This is a good zone exit clip from Boelius (#9 in white). His patience, vision, and skating allow him to find space to skate the puck out of the defensive zone with ease.

Switzerland

The last place team in the tournament, Switzerland lacked the overall talent that the other teams had, and it showed. They gave Slovakia a scare before losing in overtime, this after losing to Canada and Sweden by 10+ goals in their games. Switzerland was another team that lacked 2025 NHL Draft pedigree, but a few of their players may have made an early impression on NHL scouts.

Mike Aeschlimann - Forward

Their leading scorer and goal scorer, Aeschlimann scored two of Switzerland’s five goals in the tournament. He scored both of his goals in the seventh place game against Finland and one was a very nice backhand shot that found the back of the net. A decent skater who flashed some offensive skill, Aeschlimann will return to Langnau’s U20 team this upcoming season.

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This is a great goal from Aeschlimann (#11 in white), from the steal at the defensive blue line to create his own breakaway to the backhand shot that finds the top of the net, it’s a high quality play at each step.

Florian Schenk - Forward

Their top center, Schenk was used in all situations by the Swiss coaching staff. He added a goal and an assist to Switzerland’s scoring totals in the tournament, but his real value was in being as good defensively as he was offensively. He had a good hit on Gavin McKenna early in the game against Canada, and he was committed to good two way play. Schenk will have an opportunity to improve this season as he has committed to the St. John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL, who selected him seventh overall in this summer’s CHL Import Draft.

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For a team that didn’t score very many goals, this is a pretty good one from Schenk (#21 in white). Good positioning in the middle of the neutral zone helps to force the Slovakian puck carrier to make a poor passing decision. From there Schenk goes to the net and scores off the rebound. Solid play in both zones from Schenk.

Lars Steiner - Forward

Steiner played with Schenk on Switzerland’s top line and contributed with a goal and an assist during the tournament, with both of his points coming in the game against Slovakia. His goal was a nice shot from the right wing that found the top corner of the net. Another Swiss player drafted to the QMJHL in the CHL Import Draft, Steiner will play for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies this upcoming season. A late 2007 birthday, Steiner is eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft.

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The aforementioned goal from Steiner (#15 in white). He starts the play by looking for an outlet to pass to but he decides to keep the puck and place a hard wrist shot into the back of the net.

2025 NHL DRAFT: Summer of 25′ – Players to watch in Central Europe

Chapin Landvogt — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:32:30 +0000

The summer is flying by, and the Hlinka Gretzky Cup is the hockey topic that’ll be kicking off August. Although there is an increasing bed of overage prospects of interest to be watching throughout Germany and Switzerland, here’s a little look at five of the most interesting first year eligible players of note in this region.

Carlos Händel - Defense - Last season: Malmö Redhawks (U17)

Utterly confident with or without the puck everywhere on the ice, Händel carries himself like a player who believes he can do what he wants and is good enough to find a solution for every situation he gets himself into. This isn’t always the case, of course, but he achieves it more often than not and with that, his approach finds him right smack dab in the middle of numerous offensive opportunities and traffic all over the ice throughout just about any game he plays. With a righty shot and an effectively nonchalant manner of gaining speed through repetitive crossovers with the puck on his blade, Händel has been playing with an effectiveness and involvement the past few years that the German prospect scene hasn’t, well, seen since Mo Seider was this age.

Now, we’re not going to go that far as to start comparing the two, especially since Händel doesn’t bring the physical dimension we saw from Seider even as early as when he was 14 and playing against older competitors, but the stickwork is often impressive and Händel pushes the envelope with regularity. He’ll dance at the blueline, often under pressure, and he’ll do his tricks and take his steps in his own zone despite heavy opposition forechecking. There’s some sly dipsy doodling here and there, and the 170-pounder has no qualms about carrying the puck long distances to bring the danger from his zone to the opposition net. Notable is also the vision he possesses, which is of importance in light of how capable he is of creating time and space, so teammates are often open and he’s adept at finding them.

A cherry on top is that he loves firing away with the puck. He does so in a methodical manner with his head on a telescope, and the good old fashioned wrister is his weapon of choice. But it’s usually the right one. This is not to say he won’t unleash one-timers or really lean into a bullet when the chance presents itself, but he’s smart enough to have realized that the placement control he has with the wrister, often looking for tips and traffic, is often his best option.

Having just turned 17 in March, he’s been a mainstay for German selects over the past few seasons and his PPG pace at the D1A U18 Worlds was a key in seeing Germany gain promotion. A recent invitation to the U20 team’s summer camp is a good sign looking forward and it would seem all but official that he’ll be making the jump from Sweden to the QMJHL next season. There are still hiccups and kinks in his game and he’s still a bit of a lightweight, so steps need to be taken to get to the next level, but his riverboat gambler style and the opportunities it generates are worth the price of admission and have us very excited about what his draft year is going to look like. We’re tipping on it including an appearance at the WJC this winter.

CLIP #1

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Händel, who seems to get to wear his beloved number 7 everywhere he plays, dekes an opponent near the blueline, walks on down the slot and deposits the puck in the far corner. And this is not a one-and-done type of play from him as he relishes the opportunity to make just these kinds of moves, at any level and against any competition he’s playing.

CLIP #2

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The camera work is rough here, but this is a very stereotypical type of end-to-end rush we’ve come to see from Händel dozens of times. He really has no qualms in grabbing that puck in his zone and going for a stroll.

CLIP #3

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The move here isn’t bad. We like to see it. He’s got his confidence and is self-assured with the puck. But by the time Händel cuts to the slot, there’s nothing but opposition jerseys there and he pays the price. The opponent then gets to rush in the other direction while he’s still got his back to the ice. These decision-related kinks will have to get ironed out along the way.

David Lewandowski - Center - Last season: Düsseldorf (DNL U20)

David Lewandowski has been a name we’ve been talking about and thus, heavily anticipating, for several years now. Although his performances, especially at the international level, has been inconsistent, his tool set has been undeniable to this point, having hit six feet in height at a relatively early stage and playing a big player’s game with a big player’s reach. His mitts are already of the silky variety and when he places his wares on display, things often get flashy. Strong first steps and, at times, exceptional vision allows him to find or create holes in the defense that many of his peers cannot while his propensity to shake and bake likely has him wanting to stake a claim to the title “Deutschland Dangler” once Leon Draisaitl hangs up his skates one day. For the time being, he’s the best combination of size and skill we’ve seen out of Germany for a few years now and when he’s on his game, it’s a beauty to watch.

Son of a Russian-born former pro of German descent, his father Eduard coached him this past season after having played pro hockey right on through the 22-23 season, where he skated for Krefeld of the DEL2 after having put up 12 points for the same in their DEL season the year before - as a 40-year-old. A long-time impact player in the DEL and member of the national team, the elder Lewandowski also spent seven seasons in the KHL before returning to lace his skates for Düsseldorf, where son David has been gaining his ice hockey education ever since. The combination of dad’s genes and coaching led to a fantastic 23-24 season as the youngster put up 16 goals and 53 points in 42 DNL games as an underager while also getting into 16 games for 3rd league Essen, for whom he put up 10 points and +6 rating. All around, very impressive stats at both levels and a strong showing against men for one of the 3rd league’s top clubs.

As promising and even daunting as that may all sound for a player who appears to have the kind of playmaking skills and requisite shot we’ve only really seen from other German players who are now donning NHL jerseys, Lewandowski’s game has shown plenty of warts to date. There are many times where he’ll be caught overhandling the puck, if not being downright inconsequential with it. His effort level has at times, allowed the word “lazy” to slip in as the preferred adjective and along the way, he’s shown fitness deficits. As an underager at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup last summer, he was completely overwhelmed. By the time the D1A U18 Worlds rolled around, he shot out of the gates with seven points and +4 in the first three games only to go scoreless and -2 in the final two games, in which Germany scored a total of 12 goals. There’s been a certain amount of inconsistency every step of the way and if we didn’t know better, it sometimes looks like he hasn’t gotten the memo that you can only go so far on talent alone.

All this means that this upcoming season will be pivotal in showing the hockey world that he’s more about all the real slick, pretty things he can do, and a lot less about the often maddening shifts in effort and results. He is signed to a DEL contract with a Düsseldorf team that has its own DNL club and affiliates in both the 2nd and 3rd leagues, so there’s no telling where exactly he’ll take the bulk of his shifts this year.

CLIP #1

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Although not the top goal we’ve seen from Lewandowski (#15) in international play, one that lets you see how he can quickly make use of an imperfect pass and let it rip without overthinking things.

CLIP #2

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In this clip, Lewandowski (#11) gains an assist on just the kind of bread-and-butter pass that comes so easily for him, showing that he has a good understanding of plays as they unfold.

CLIP #3

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On the right circle during the power play, Lewandowski makes the cross-ice feed to his fave set-up man and then pounces on the return pass for a one-timer goal. If you think the cross-ice feed from Willhöft (#7) is every bit as nice, then make sure to keep reading this article.

CLIP #4

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Things can get like this for the youngster. Lewandowski grabs the puck in his own zone and charges up the ice only to lose it somewhat haphazardly at the opposition blueline. It’s just the kind of thing we’ve come to see from him mixed in with his good stuff.

Florian Schenk - Center - Bern (U20 Elit and U17)

It’s been a long time coming, but just over the past few days it’s become official that forward Florian Schenk will be joining the Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL, who drafted him a good month ago in the CHL Import Draft. Having been seen as Switzerland’s top prospect for next summer’s entry draft, his jump will be a loss for Bern and its program. Not only was it thoroughly possible that Schenk would have seen some time in the NL, but the organization was surely hoping he’d not go the way of former native son Nico Hischier, who left the program to spend his draft year playing for the Halifax Mooseheads. This said, you can rest assured that the similarities between these two Bern-bred players pretty much begin and end right there.

For his part, Florian Schenk is a tall and somewhat heavy-footed forward who is still growing into his body. He does combine soft hands and a will to get things done in a fancy manner with a frame that, especially in Switzerland’s junior level, has allowed him to charge the net with reckless abandon. There, he spent last season putting up 25 points in 42 U20 league games, his 28 penalty minutes showing that he can get chippy in the process. Mind you, this made him the top U17 player in the league in just about every category except for goal-scoring, where he tied for 3rd with eight. His 26 points in 17 U17 league games as well as 17 points in 22 international contests for his nation at the U17 level tell a more in-depth story about where he’s been at as a go-to weapon up front. Yet at each step of the way, he’s been more of a playmaker than goal-scorer, an attest to his eye for finding teammates, usually in and around the goalmouth area. There’s ample skill as a point-producer here despite him not (yet) possessing a notable shot.

On the downside, his international viewings showed him to be an underdeveloped player with a number of holes in his three-zone play and, in general, lacking the speed and hop to press through or have much of an impact against some of the headier competition along the way. He’d just be a bit tentative here or there, or a step behind in certain situations. He looked reserved on the forecheck and had some problems in transition. There were times where the extra step just wasn’t there and he left him behind the competition, or at least not looking much different from the wider mass of his own team. This is not entirely unexpected from players playing junior hockey in countries like Switzerland and Germany, but indicative of some challenges he has ahead of him in the coming season. OHL action will surely demand of him that he show an upward trend in these areas.

CLIP #1

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After forechecking, Schenk slyly picks up the opponent’s stick and gets an opportunity, only spoiled by an aggressive goaltender.

CLIP #2

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Here’s the type of power move we saw coming from him throughout his junior play in Switzerland.

CLIP #3

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This left-board, puck-carrying hiccup was one of many of this sort to be seen during his international play.

Dustin Willhöft - Winger - Last season: Mannheim (U20 DNL)

If you fancy little tykes who can deke and dish with the best of them, then you’re going to love Dustin Willhöft. Born in Estonia and having spent much of his life in Denmark, half German Willhöft used to drive over four hours back and forth from practice and games between his home in Denmark and Hamburg, Germany. A rambler in many ways, Willhöft also spent parts of three seasons playing for the Rögle’s U16 and U18 teams in Sweden before transferring to the Adler Mannheim program last season, where he proceeded to put up 37 points in 21 U20 DNL games as a 17-year-old. At this point in time, there’s no telling where he’ll be playing the upcoming season even if it would stand to reason that Mannheim brought him on board for a longer-term reason last winter.

One way or another, Willhöft is a quick player who appears to have the necessary skating skills to survive despite his size. At least it’s never really posed a problem thus far in his junior career. It’ll be an obstacle once he starts playing against men, but it has to be noted that he’s very adept at swerving his upper body while maintaining balance and even his speed in many situations on the ice. He’s also athletic and wary enough to hop around and move past defenders with the kind of hockey sense that baits the opposition into making the first move while defending him. He possesses notable agility and an extra gear, even if he isn’t pulling it out with every opportunity. Where it gets really interesting is in seeing how well his hands and mind keep up with his skating. Not only does he have great vision and accuracy as a passer, but he understands very well how to create time and space, both 5-on-5 and on the power play. There’s an innate ability to put pucks where he wants them and build in the kind of head and shoulder fakes that buy him the odd second here or there.

All this culminates in saying that he’s one of the undersized prospects out there we’re not really worried about. He’s here to produce offense and he is fully aware that his ability to do so and survive is pendent upon the athleticism, vision, and survival skills he has been showing for years now. When he does get into trouble it is not for a lack of effort. There’s only so much ice out there and his skating prowess and understanding of the game will also have him trying to overcompensate for other teammates, thus abandoning his position at times. And whereas we wouldn’t say he’s afraid to go into traffic, usually in the opposition zone, he’s not out there to commit suicide. He’ll assess the situation and avoid hot spots if the calculator in his head is telling him to do so. It’s worth pointing out that his ability to get pucks through traffic, indeed making passes of the cross-ice variety, also allows him to appear as though he’s avoiding high danger zones.

Interestingly, he’s the type of player where we’d have no doubts about his chances moving forward if he were three or four inches taller and 20 pounds heavier. The skills can be breathtaking. His mind is that of an on-ice chess master. He even keeps himself out of physical trouble. It’s all there except for the requisite size. He’s got a whole season to hopefully grow physically, but also erase any doubts scouts may have.

CLIP #1

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This little skill play by Willhöft (#7) is indicative of what you’ll see from him game for game. This doesn’t happen every now and then, but rather on a daily basis. This is how he rolls. The move here is the key to buying the time necessary to gain this assist, as the defenseman was clearly thrown off by the play.

CLIP #2

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And here we see the kind of assist that has been pushing off the size-related doubts, as Willhöft not only makes his way along the board against two defenders, but then stretches his body as needed to find a man in front who the opposition didn’t count on him finding.

CLIP #3

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-dustin_willhoft_-_3rd_period_3_49_-_3_59_Incredible-wrister.mp4

With Rögle in this scene, Willhöft (#17) puts in an incredibly strong individual effort here. He not only pokes the puck past an opponent in a position that should see him get bulldozed, but then manages to quickly regain his balance, put on the jets, and then snipe a shot from what looked like a hopeless angle. Just don’t tell him that.

CLIP #4

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To begin, Willhöft finds himself in the lower corner of his own zone, which may have resulted from him having taken over the center position duties on this particular play (i.e., wanting to give him the benefit of the doubt), but then he gets into trouble real quick. After coughing up the puck, he gets it back and then tries a little chip pass to solve the situation in his own zone, which backfires. A not too untypical play for a skill player who isn’t used to going the safe route.

Jeremiah Mundy - Left wing - Last season: Rapperswil-Jona (U20 Elite and U17)

Half Canadian, the Swiss winger from St. Gallen will be 17-years old right on up through February, but already checks in at 6’ 2” and 196 pounds. He’s a player who loves to drive to the net, with and without the puck, and shows no fear in dragging pucks out of corners and seeing just how far he can go until he’s slamming the biscuit into the opposition goal. Featuring straight line speed, his leg strength is still clearly a work in progress and there have been plenty of times the past few years where he’s made a gangly, uncoordinated impression. Alas, he’s been able to solve more and more situations with strong skating techniques and his stickhandling has improved in leaps and bounds over the past two seasons to the point where it’s a clear strength in his tool kit.

Internationally, Mundy has been suiting up for Swiss U16 and U17 sides and should be a top nine winger at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup this summer. This said, he went scoreless in six U20 Elite league contests last winter while putting up 29 goals and 51 points in 42 U17 league games for Rapperswil-Jona, meaning he was tied for first in goal-scoring league wide. Like many players his age, there are phases where he lacks concentration or appears to be so busy preparing for the next course of action that he fails to receive a simple pass. There are holes in his game, and he can have some shifts that beg for more effort. But we’re hard-pressed to find any games where he’s just a no-show. He’ll be charging to the net all the time and is fantastic at getting his stick on pucks in the slot. We’ve seen him on the face-off circle and as the goal-front presence on the power play, so he can take on varying roles.

In order for Mundy to remain a draft topic right on through to next summer, we’re going to need to see more consistency and the ability to push his way through older competition. He’s got the size, and his hands are really above average in comparison to the competition in Switzerland. Again, his skating can be highly impressive even if shifts tend to get short if he finds himself having to kick them off with high levels of effort. Hopefully, the HG Cup in Edmonton will serve as a spot where he puts himself decisively on the draft prospect map heading into the season. Having returned to HC Davos for this season, it’ll be fascinating to see if he gets any time in the NL at any juncture.

CLIP #1

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-jeremiah_mundy_-_shooting_from_the_slot_-_2nd_period_10_4_-_10_11_Carry-pass-charge.mp4

This clip is a prime example of Mundy’s (#34) explosive speed as he brings the puck out of the zone and up the ice, then dishes it off and charges to the net. A nice save by the goaltender is the one thing hindering what could have been a fantastic all-round play.

CLIP #2

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-jeremiah_mundy_-_shooting_from_the_slot_-_3rd_period_8_30_-_8_37_Good-steal-and-goal.mp4

A solid bit of hounding the puck-carrier leads to creating a turnover, which he quickly pounces on. A slick move is followed by a snipe to the upper corner of the net. There’s some killer instinct to be seen here.

CLIP #3

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-jeremiah_mundy_-_shooting_from_the_slot_-_2nd_period_32_31_-_32_38_Good-PP-one-timer.mp4

Mundy didn’t have to do a lot of work in the seconds leading up to this power play tally, but he was in the right place and got found at the right time. One of the easier goals he’s been able to put in his outings for Switzerland.

BONUS:

Max Bleicher - Defenseman - Last season: EV Füssen (German Oberliga - 3rd pro circuit)

Just 17-years old until February of 2025, defenseman Max Bleicher is heading to North America to spend the upcoming season with the Owen Sound Attack of the OHL. Sturdily built at 6-foot, 180 pounds, the Attack will be receiving a player who spent the majority of last season playing against men in the Oberliga Süd, chalking up top four minutes in phases while ultimately finishing third among defensemen on his team with six goals and 14 points. Considering 16 players on the team had a -10 or worse, with three in -30 territory, his -8 didn’t look half bad for a player in his situation. Most importantly, the book on Bleicher is that he’s a gamer. He just works and chugs away, combining a strong understanding of defensive positioning with heady play moving forward.

What stands out most about Bleicher’s play is his headiness and attention to detail. He’s attentive and he’s always looking to make smart plays, be they successful or not. He goes where it hurts to defend and collect pucks, but he doesn’t hesitate to make a few dekes to create space and then find an open station to pass to, with calculated saucer passes being his weapon of choice. Bleicher also finds ways to solve things by making plays rather than just seeking dump-out options, although when he chooses the latter, it’s usually the absolute correct choice in light of the kind of pressure he’s alleviating for his team. Excursions into the offensive zone take place when he gets the (sound) chance, but Bleicher is very comfortable doing as much as he can to quarterback plays from the point, from where he does get off valuable shots. Speaking of which, he can hammer the puck. He needs to do it more often. But when the time is there to wind up, he’s got a cannon.

There are some detractors though and some might point to how he does experience leaky breakdowns in his own zone or that he can be manhandled off the puck here and there. It does happen and although some of his reads are great, others are not. There’s fluctuation. It was a big part of the learning process jumping to pro play last season. One also has to ask if some of that is due in part to a lack of the kind of four-way mobility you usually want to see from your defensemen as well as a skating style that doesn’t see him go all too deep in the knee while chugging along. Only time and continual off-ice work (i.e., improving leg strength) will go to show if the skating stride will become lighter on the eyes and more effective while the defensive breakdowns become fewer. He’s definitely got a hockey mind and hasn’t come so far so quickly without dedication to improvement, resulting in his steep learning curve. It’s actually been quite considerable in such a short period of time, so the move to North America may just be the thing to more quickly turn him into the player his development has been indicating he’ll become.

CLIP #1

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-max_bleicher_-_2nd_period_12_38_-_12_48_Goal-against-USA.mp4

Here’s a look at Bleicher jumping out of his zone, making a nifty move after quickly being attacked right on the heels of accepting a pass from teammate Lewandowski, only to skate down uncontested and blow a shot by the US goaltender.

CLIP #2

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-max_bleicher_-_1st_period_1_38_-_2_20_Whole-shift-sound.mp4

In this shift against Slovakia, Bleicher (#4) keeps things simple and aware with some good stickwork and then sound positioning. He ultimately uses his skill to smoothly put Germany into breakout mode although it doesn’t look like there should be an out for him here.

CLIP #3

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-max_bleicher_-_1st_period_28_50_-_29_12_Weaker-shift.mp4

In a rougher shift, Bleicher (#11) sees his initial dump get deflected. He then leaves an opponent wide open while drifting in towards puck play upon instinct. Although he does get back safely, the way he picks up the puck ultimately invites his opponent to move in on him and he’s overwhelmed physically, giving up possession in his own zone, far too casually no less.

2024 HLINKA GRETZKY CUP PREVIEW: Team overview and players to watch

Brock Otten — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:49:54 +0000

The Hlinka/Gretzky Cup returns to Edmonton next week, after the 2023 version was played in Czechia and Slovakia. Canada will aim to secure its third straight gold medal at the event. For those unfamiliar, the Hlinka/Gretzky is an annual summer U18 event that serves as the unofficial kickoff to the scouting season for the year’s NHL draft, in this case 2025.

Let’s preview each team and give you some of the players to watch!

Group A

Canada

As mentioned, Canada will be attempting to complete the three-peat after winning last year and in 2022. They enter the tournament as the odds-on favourite, even without the services of two of their top players in Michael Misa and Ryan Roobroeck. Misa was a key piece of last year’s gold medal winning team and is taking the time to heal and train following last year’s deep Memorial Cup run with Saginaw. Roobroeck is missing the event due to an injury. Regardless, Canada will have the tournament’s top player in top 2026 draft eligible Gavin McKenna, who is coming off a dominant performance at the recent U18’s as an underager. Safe to say, Canada will go as far as McKenna can carry them.

Five Players to Watch:

Gavin McKenna

The odds-on favourite to be the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, McKenna is also the top player at this tournament. He’s dynamic in every sense of the word and if his performance at the recent U18’s (as an underager) is any indication, he’s going to be dominant in this event.

Cameron Schmidt

Schmidt really opened some eyes at last year’s U17’s, helping Canada White capture gold. He may be small, but the speedy winger is effective because he plays such an aggressive, up-tempo game.

Caleb Desnoyers

Due to Canada’s lack of center depth at the recent U18’s, Desnoyers was thrust into a fairly large role as an underager and he handled it pretty well. The competitive two-way center is going to be a go-to offensive player for Canada and this could serve as a coming out party for him.

Matthew Schaefer

Not only does Schaefer enter this tournament as Canada’s top defender, but he should be one of the best defensemen at the event. He will unquestionably be a big part of Canada’s leadership group and his heady two-way play will be integral.

Jack Ivankovic

Ivankovic is such a calm, cool, and collected young netminder. His play tracking and technical abilities are so advanced for his age. While NHL scouts are bound to criticize his lack of size (under 6’), there’s no doubting his talent level.

Sweden

The 2023 Hlinka/Gretzky Cup was a bit of a nightmare for the Swedes as they failed to make the semifinals for the first time in eight years. They’ll be looking to bounce back in a big way, hoping to capture their first gold since 2007. The only issue is that the team will be missing its best player in potential 2025 top five pick Anton Frondell, as he recovers from an injury that occurred late last season. Additionally, Karl Annborn is mysteriously absent from the final roster, after it was believed that he would be a top defender for the team thanks to his experience internationally. One of the keys for Sweden will be the play of goaltender Love Harenstam, who has a ton of experience for Sweden already, as the team’s starter as an underager at the recent U18’s.

Five Players to Watch:

Jakob Ihs-Wozniak

With Frondell out, eyes will be on Ihs-Wozniak to really step up and drive play. He already has experience at the U18 level and the big winger is considered a potential lottery selection in 2025.

Sascha Boumedienne

Yes, that is former NHL defender Josef Boumedienne’s son. The Boston University commit already plays in North America with Youngstown of the USHL; he was a member of the USHL All-Rookie team last year. He’s a heady, two-way puck mover who should be one of the tournament’s top defenders.

Filip Ekberg

One of the key performers for Sweden at last year’s U17’s, Ekberg is a creative and skilled playmaker. He’s not the biggest or the quickest, but he’s highly effective because of his cerebral advantage. There are heavy rumours that he will be playing for the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL this coming season.

Viggo Bjorck

Thought to be one of the top 2008 born players on the planet, it will be interesting to see how Bjorck performs in his first U18 test internationally. The dynamic forward has a chance to be a special player.

Love Harenstam

As mentioned, Harenstam may just be the key for Sweden should they want to medal at the Hlinka/Gretzky. He should be one of the top netminders at the event after already performing well at the recent U18’s, backstopping Sweden to bronze.

Slovakia

The Slovaks will look to get back to the semifinals for the first time since 2021, when Dalibor Dvorsky and Juraj Slafkovsky led them to a silver medal. Unfortunately, the team’s chances took a big hit when it was announced that two of their top defenders would be skipping the event for different reasons. Potential lottery pick Luka Radivojevic is choosing to prepare for his upcoming SHL season instead, after playing in last year’s Hlinka/Gretzky (much like Canada’s Michael Misa). Whereas Vladimir Dravecky has decided to switch allegiances and play for Czechia. The Slovaks should still be able to score; they have some solid talent up front. But preventing goals could be an issue. Either way, they shouldn’t finish last again like they did last year.

Five Players to Watch:

Tomas Chrenko

Not eligible for the NHL Draft until 2026 due to a later birthday, Chrenko was already one of Slovakia’s top performers at the recent U18’s as an underager. He’s lightning quick and is a highly creative playmaker.

Adam Nemec

The younger brother of New Jersey Devils defender Simon Nemec, Adam is a winger, and is another of the late birthdays not eligible until 2026. He’s a skilled goal scorer who should be a large part of Slovakia’s powerplay at the event.

Tobias Tomik

You guessed it, another high end late 2007 born player who is not eligible until 2026. Like Chrenko, Tomik was already one of Slovakia’s best players at the recent U18’s despite his age. He scored a couple of goals at last year’s Hlinka/Gretzky as an underager too.

Jan Chovan

What? A high-end Slovak forward without a later birthday? Chovan is eligible for this year’s NHL draft and should be one of the team’s top centers. He’s a versatile player because of his power game and two-way ability.

Andreas Straka

Another forward with significant experience at the U18 level internationally already. Straka, like the other four mentioned above, will be a critical component of the team’s top two scoring lines. The competitive two-way forward is slated to play with Quebec of the QMJHL this season.

Switzerland

The Swiss have never medaled at this event and haven’t made the semifinals in over two decades. Are they overdue? You could probably make that argument, but realistically Switzerland doesn’t have the depth to compete with the other teams in their division. They do have some talented and interesting prospects eligible for this year’s NHL draft, but they might be more likely to finish last than medal. Somewhat surprisingly, the team did not opt to take any of their talented 2008’s to play as underagers, just like how few of these players have U18 experience either. It’s a recent shift in philosophy for the Swiss, who used to bring many underagers to help with elevating the depth of their rosters.

Three Players to Watch:

Florian Schenk

At this point, Schenk should be considered Switzerland’s top prospect for the 2025 NHL draft. The big forward may not be the fleetest of foot, but he’s strong and skilled, capable of playing the heavier game needed to outperform the other top nations in this division.

Jeremiah Mundy

Another big forward, Mundy is a power winger who played well for Switzerland at the U17 level internationally last season. He has a strong scorer’s touch in tight and probably enters this event as Switzerland’s second best draft prospect this year.

Lars Steiner

Not eligible for the NHL draft until 2026 due to a late birthday, Steiner may just be the most talented player on this Swiss roster. He has already played a game for HC Davos of the NL and should be the team’s top play driver.

Group B

Finland

Despite some decent recent success at the event, the Finns haven’t won a semifinal matchup at the Hlinka/Gretzky in over a decade. They’ve also never won a gold medal, a somewhat shocking revelation considering their success at the year-end IIHF U18’s. Maybe this is the year that they break through and get through to play for a gold medal. That said, this group is coming off of a last place finish at last year’s World Under 17 Hockey Challenge and it’s largely considered a down birth year for Finland. With a strong Czech team, an underrated German team, and a US team that’s always a wild card in this division, could Finland be headed for another poor performance?

Five Players to Watch:

Jasu Mensonen

One of the top centers on this Finnish team, Mensonen is a high end, cerebral playmaker who makes those around him better. He missed last year’s World Under 17 Hockey Challenge and will look to be a difference maker now.

Jesper Kotajarvi

Possibly the top Finnish player eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft, Kotajarvi is a mobile, two-way defender who was one of the few standouts for Finland at last year’s U17’s. Look for him to anchor the top powerplay unit and to log a ton of minutes.

Eetu Orpana

Along with Mensonen, Orpana should be the Finns other top six center, giving them a solid one/two punch down the middle. Orpana is sort of the classic center mold out of Finland, in that he’s got good size, competes at both ends, and makes smart plays with the puck.

Max Westergard

He’s got a Swedish name, and he plays out of Sweden (in the Frolunda program), but Westergard is very Finnish. He’s a solid complementary winger who can put the puck in the net and play a heavy game.

Patrik Kerkola

The likely starting netminder for this Finnish team, Kerkola is one of the early favourites to be one of the top goaltenders chosen in the 2025 NHL Draft. Look for him to join the Barrie Colts of the OHL for the upcoming season.

Czechia

At this point, the Czechs would probably be considered the favourites to win this group. They suffered a devastating OT loss in the gold medal game at last year’s Hlinka/Gretzky and will be hungry to avenge that. Additionally, this talented group of 2007’s lost a heartbreaking semi-final in OT to the United States at last year’s World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. Make no mistake, this group of Czechs could yield double digit NHL draft picks and will be a formidable opponent. Their group of forwards is very deep, and they’ll be a difficult team to outscore, led by the ultra-talented Adam Benak.

Five Players to Watch:

Adam Benak

The diminutive playmaking center was a star at last summer’s Hlinka/Gretzky Cup as an underager and he returns this year in hopes of avenging that tough OT loss. He’s so slippery in the offensive zone and despite his lack of size, has a chance to be a high pick in 2025. He’ll play this season with Youngstown of the USHL.

Matej Pekar

Not to be confused with the former Buffalo Sabres prospect of the same name, Pekar actually led this Czech group in scoring at last year’s U17’s, not Benak. He plays in Switzerland and is a very talented offensive player. He could be a potential breakout star at this event.

Tomas Poletin

Another Czech player who has left Czechia to play, Poletin is a skilled, scoring winger who made the move to Finland. He played at the most recent U18’s, and already has significant experience playing internationally at the U18 level. He will be a go to player.

Adam Novotny

Not NHL eligible until 2026 due to a late birthday, Novotny is another talented forward on this team. He made waves recently as the youngest player to score in the Czech men’s league. He is a dynamic skater and attacker.

Vladimir Dravecky

As mentioned earlier, Dravecky, a mobile puck moving defender, switched allegiances from Slovakia to Czechia for this event. A late birthday, he’s considered one of the better defenders available for the 2026 NHL draft and he should be a minute eater for the Czechs.

United States

You truly never know what you’re going to get from a U.S. team at this event because it’s largely a collection of less hyped prospects outside of the NTDP. Last year they earned their first medal since 2016, a bronze, on the back of strong play from Trevor Connelly. But in 2022 and 2021, they failed to make the medal round. On paper, this year’s roster should be able to score thanks to some talented offensive players, but do they have the depth to compete for a medal for the second straight year?

Five Players to Watch:

Ben Kevan

Coming off a fantastic rookie season in the USHL where Kevan was a near point per game player for Des Moines, all eyes will be on him to be an offensive leader for the U.S. squad. He’s the complete package offensively and this event could be an opportunity for him to prove that he’s a potential first round selection in 2025.

Cooper Simpson

Along with Kevan, Simpson should be the straw that stirs the drink for the U.S.’ offensive attack. He’s a dynamic offensive player who oozes creativity and confidence with the puck. The North Dakota commit will look to have the same kind of impact Trevor Connelly did at last year’s tournament.

Travis Hayes

The only OHL player on this roster, Hayes is the younger brother of Chicago Blackhawks prospect Gavin Hayes. He’s a tenacious winger who was a member of the OHL’s all-rookie team last year after a strong season with the Soo Greyhounds.

Blake Fiddler

One of a few players on the roster with former NHL bloodlines, Blake is the son of Vern Fiddler. Like Hayes, he plays in the CHL, but in the WHL with Edmonton. The big defender is a solid two-way player, and he should be a minute eater at the event. Interestingly enough, he played for Canada at the World Under 17’s last year but has switched to the U.S. for this event.

Jacob Rombach

Another top defender for the United States, Rombach is a massive, but athletic rearguard. He plays for Lincoln of the USHL and is a University of Minnesota commit. His combination of mobility, reach, and physicality is going to intrigue NHL scouts the same way that Adam Kleber did on last year’s team.

Germany

The Germans have never made the semi finals at this event since the commencement of their participation, but that has the potential to change. It’s not a stretch to say that this could be the best team that Germany has ever sent to the Hlinka/Gretzky, with as many as a half dozen potential 2025 NHL Draft selections. They’ve had some strong individual performances, but not the kind of depth that this roster has. I know longtime McKeen’s scout Chapin Landvogt is extremely excited about covering his region this season! Many of these players, as underagers, helped Germany qualify for the main group in the U18’s in 2025, by capturing gold at the Division A tournament this past year. That kind of experience can only help.

Five Players to Watch:

Carlos Handel

While Handel may not be the same quality of defensive prospect as Moritz Seider, he’s still a highly touted player after a few solid seasons in Sweden and some strong International performances. He’s strong at both ends and is going to play a ton for Germany. Interestingly enough, it sounds like Handel will be coming over to play with Halifax in the QMJHL this year.

Max Bleicher

The other minute eater on the German blueline, Bleicher is equally strong at both ends and plays a bit of a meaner game than Handel. He’s also not the same quality of skater, something he’ll need to work on. He’s definitely on the NHL draft radar.

David Lewandowski

Along with Handel, Lewandowski is Germany’s best chance at having a first rounder in 2025. His game improved dramatically last year and he’s the kind of power center that NHL teams are drawn to. Look for him to be a difference maker at the tournament.

Dustin Willhoft

A much different player than Lewandowski, but one that is equally important to the offense of this team. Willhoft is definitely on the small side, but he’s extremely skilled and creative. He’s consistently been the leading scorer of this age group internationally.

Mateu Spath

Spath has been receiving hype from Germany ever since he broke the U17 league scoring record as an underager a few years ago. The talented offensive winger brings speed and finishing ability to the German lineup and could be part of the top powerplay unit along with Lewandowski and Willhoft.

Florian Schenk – McKeen's Hockey

2025 IIHF U18 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW: PART TWO – Our scouts provide their biggest surprises and disappointments

SURPRISES

Jere Somervuori

Filip Ekberg

Cole Reschny

Tinus Luc Koblar

Matúš Lisý

Jakob Ihs-Wozniak

Jack Ivankovic

L. J. Mooney

Cullen Potter

Lev Katzin

Florian Schenk

Elias Schneider

DISAPPOINTMENTS

Atte Joki

Karl Annborn

Cameron Schmidt

Eddie Genborg

Michal Oršulák

Anton Frondell

Michal Orsulak

Jack Murtagh

Charlie Trethewey

Jackson Smith

Matia Nico Birchler

David Lewandowski

2024 HLINKA GRETZKY CUP: Three standout performances by country

Canada

Matthew Schaefer - Defense

Gavin McKenna - Forward

Caleb Desnoyers - Forward

Czechia

Adam Benak - Forward

Radim Mrtka - Defense

Vit Zahejsky - Forward

Sweden

Viktor Klingsell - Forward

Ivar Stenberg - Forward

Milton Gastrin - Forward

USA

Matthew Lansing - Forward

Blake Fiddler - Defense

Ben Kevan - Forward

Slovakia

Jan Chovan - Forward

Michal Svrcek - Forward

Michal Pradel - Goaltender

Germany

Carlos Handel - Defense

Dustin Willhoft - Forward

Gustavs & Rihards Griva - Forwards

Finland

Patrik Kerkola - Goaltender

Max Westergard - Forward

Lasse Boelius - Defense

Switzerland

Mike Aeschlimann - Forward

Florian Schenk - Forward

Lars Steiner - Forward

2025 NHL DRAFT: Summer of 25′ – Players to watch in Central Europe

Carlos Händel - Defense - Last season: Malmö Redhawks (U17)

David Lewandowski - Center - Last season: Düsseldorf (DNL U20)

Florian Schenk - Center - Bern (U20 Elit and U17)

Dustin Willhöft - Winger - Last season: Mannheim (U20 DNL)

Jeremiah Mundy - Left wing - Last season: Rapperswil-Jona (U20 Elite and U17)

BONUS:

Max Bleicher - Defenseman - Last season: EV Füssen (German Oberliga - 3rd pro circuit)

2024 HLINKA GRETZKY CUP PREVIEW: Team overview and players to watch

Group A

Canada

Five Players to Watch:

Gavin McKenna

Cameron Schmidt

Caleb Desnoyers

Matthew Schaefer

Jack Ivankovic

Sweden

Five Players to Watch: