Herman Traff – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: Victor Nuño – Dynasty Stock Watch – Anaheim Ducks Edition

Victor Nuño — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:08:42 +0000

Team Outlook

The Anaheim Ducks have moved beyond the rebuild phase and into the far more interesting stage of proving it is over. After years of stockpiling young talent, Anaheim has taken a major step forward this season under Joel Quenneville, spending much of the year near the top of the Pacific Division and clinching its first playoff berth since 2017-18. This is no longer a team focused primarily on future value; it is a team beginning to turn that value into results.

From a dynasty perspective, that shift matters. Trevor Zegras is no longer part of the picture, while Mason McTavish’s rocky season has complicated what once looked like a straightforward rise into the club’s leadership group. In their place, Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, Beckett Sennecke, and Jackson LaCombe have become central to Anaheim’s evolving core, with Gauthier in particular looking like a major win from the Jamie Drysdale trade. Combined with veteran resurgence seasons from Mikael Granlund, Jacob Trouba, Radko Gudas, and Chris Kreider, the Ducks have found a balance between youth and experience that has accelerated their timeline. For dynasty managers, the key question is no longer whether Anaheim has talent, but which young pieces will hold meaningful long-term roles now that the organization is built to compete.

Buy Candidates

Damian Clara, G

Clara is the kind of goalie prospect dynasty managers should be trying to acquire before the market fully catches up. The 6-foot-6 netminder boosted his stock significantly with a standout showing for Italy at the Olympics, where he kept his team competitive against far stronger opponents and looked capable of stealing games on his own before the talent gap eventually won out. That performance reinforced what makes him so intriguing long term: his size, composure, and calm, positional style give him a strong foundation, and he is already gaining valuable experience against professional competition at a young age.

While his overall numbers with Brynäs IF have been more uneven this season, the underlying profile remains encouraging, as he is still saving more goals than expected. Lukas Dostal has cemented his status as the starter in Anaheim for years to come, which relieves pressure for Clara to climb the organizational ladder if his development continues on this path. Goalie prospects always carry risk, but Clara’s stock feels more likely to rise than fall from here, making him a strong buy candidate in dynasty formats before the price increases further.

Roger McQueen, C

McQueen offers one of the more intriguing blends of size and offensive upside in Anaheim’s system, and his first NCAA season at Providence only reinforced that appeal. He finished third on the team in scoring, behind Chicago’s John Mustard and Montreal’s Logan Sawyer, while taking on a major role, leading all forwards in time on ice at both even strength and on the power play. He also paced the team with a 60% Corsi, highlighting his ability to tilt the ice and drive possession, not just contribute offensively. When he is playing with confidence, he controls shifts through his reach, puck protection, and net-front presence, with flashes of creativity that suggest more than a complementary ceiling.

There is still projection involved, particularly in terms of consistency and pace, but the underlying profile remains very strong. His Fantasy Hockey Life tracking data supports the eye test, showing solid play-driving and loose puck recovery metrics, with a transition game that is trending upward but still has room to grow. What really elevates his fantasy value is his peripheral production, his blocks, shots, and hits are already standout, and as he continues to trend toward a full-time center role, faceoff wins could become another meaningful category boost. Players with this combination of size, usage, and multi-category upside tend to hold strong dynasty value, making McQueen a worthwhile buy before his role becomes more fully realized.

Stian Solberg, D

Solberg brings a distinctly modern defensive profile built on mobility, physical engagement, and transitional play, and his first full AHL season has reinforced that foundation. While the offensive production may never be a defining part of his game, he has defended effectively against professional competition and made his presence felt physically, registering hits at a rate higher than 96% of AHL skaters. That kind of physical dominance is not only sustainable but likely to translate to the NHL, where it can quickly carve out a role.

His value is very format-dependent, but in the right leagues, it could be significant. NHL Rank King pegs his pNHLe at just 38, which limits his appeal in points-only formats, but that undersells his broader impact. Solberg’s ability to close gaps, move pucks efficiently, and consistently deliver in the hits category makes him a classic multi-category asset. As Anaheim’s blue line continues to evolve, he projects as the type of defenseman who can log meaningful minutes and provide steady peripheral production, making him a strong buy for managers in leagues that reward physical play.

Sell Candidates

Herman Traff, RW

Traff has generated attention thanks to his size and flashes of offensive ability, particularly in junior and his recent play in HockeyAllsvenskan, where he put together an excellent season despite IK Oskarshamn falling short of qualification. He can be difficult to contain along the boards and has shown the ability to create scoring chances when given time and space, leveraging his physical advantages effectively at lower levels.

From a dynasty perspective, however, there are real concerns about translation as the competition level increases. His game can drift to the perimeter, and questions remain about his pace and ability to consistently impact play against faster, more structured opponents. While his recent production may be boosting his perceived value, underlying projection models are far less optimistic. Hockey Prospecting gives him a zero percent chance of becoming a star, largely due to modest production across his draft-minus-one through draft-plus-one seasons. If his value is currently inflated by recent performance and physical tools, this is likely an opportune window to sell before those translation concerns become more apparent.

Lucas Pettersson, C

Pettersson has put together strong offensive numbers, showing a good understanding of how to find space and contribute within the flow of play. He processes the game well and can support offensive sequences without needing to dominate the puck, giving him a solid foundation as an NHL contributor. He had a strong season in the SHL, nearly a half point per game, and excelled for Sweden’s under-20 World Junior team, helping them win gold.

That said, Pettersson projects more as a complementary forward than a primary offensive driver. He lacks a standout elite skill to push him into a top-six role, and as Anaheim’s system grows more competitive, players without distinguishing traits risk being pushed down the depth chart. His pNHLe sits just below 60, aligning with a likely bottom-six role. For dynasty managers, that caps his upside and makes him a candidate to move if others still expect top-six potential.

Maxim Masse, RW

Massé is a strong, physically engaged winger who has produced well in junior while playing a direct, north-south game. He thrives in puck battles, drives the net effectively, and generates offense through effort and positioning, traits that often translate into NHL opportunities in supporting roles. He is coming off a strong fourth and final QMJHL season, but it is worth noting that he did not truly break out until this past year, after previously being more good than dominant.

For fantasy purposes, his projection likely tops out as a middle-six, secondary scorer without consistent power-play usage. Players who become fantasy-relevant producers in the QMJHL typically dominate at an earlier age, which adds some skepticism to his profile. His Hockey Prospecting model reflects that concern, giving him roughly a four percent chance of becoming a star. If his current dynasty value is buoyed by his recent production, this is a good opportunity to sell before his role settles into a more modest, lower-ceiling outcome.

Summary

Player	Role	Key Insight
Damian Clara	Buy	High-upside goalie with pro experience and starter potential
Roger McQueen	Buy	Size and skill combination with middle-six upside
Stian Solberg	Buy	Mobile, physical defender with multi-category appeal
Herman Traff	Sell	Tools are intriguing, but translation risk remains
Lucas Pettersson	Sell	Likely complementary forward without standout upside
Maxim Masse	Sell	Productive winger whose role may limit fantasy ceiling

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

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

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

Subscribers can download the PDF in subscriber downloads.

Please note you can scroll through the PDF document here as well

Anaheim 25 Prospects

NHL: TRADE DEADLINE – Meet the prospects on the move – Minten, Ostapchuk, Grebenkin, Brisson plus more

Brock Otten — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 17:01:34 +0000

Another NHL trade deadline day has come and gone. It was a fairly active deadline this year with over 40 deals completed. Let’s take a look at ten of the top prospects moved, in addition to what can be expected of said prospects in their new organizations.

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 30: Ottawa Senators Center Zack Ostapchuk (38) applies pressure on the forecheck during first period National Hockey League action between the Washington Capitals and Ottawa Senators on January 30, 2025, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire)

Zach Ostapchuk - Center - San Jose Sharks

A former standout with the Canadian World Junior team, Ostapchuk was part of a rather surprising deal with the San Jose Sharks involving Fabian Zetterlund. He has spent the majority of this year with Ottawa, playing as the team’s fourth line center, although was recently demoted to the AHL to allow him to get more ice time and responsibility to help his offensive game blossom. At the bare minimum, Ostapchuk projects to be a reliable bottom six center who can kill penalties and take on tough defensive assignments. His combination of size, skating ability, and physicality allow him to be effective in that role. The question is, how much more can his offensive game grow as a pro? In the AHL this year, Ostapchuk has played well offensively, excelling as a playmaker with his ability to push pace, create space, and prolong possession. You can see the vision that Mike Grier has here for Ostapchuk, hopefully developing into an elite, third line center who can insulate the high-end skill San Jose is building up. Once that team has matured, someone is going to need to be able to take key draws and take on key defensive assignments late in games and Ostapchuk could end up being that kind of player. I’d expect him to, at some point, receive a call up from the Sharks so that they can get a good look at him in their lineup before the end of the season.

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

Fraser Minten - Center/Wing - Boston Bruins

It has been a fairly successful first pro season for Minten, one of the top prospects in the Leafs’ system. A well-rounded player with a mature game, it was not surprising to see him earn ice time in Toronto this year coming out of the WHL. What made Minten attractive to the Bruins is the fact that he projects to be a very versatile NHL player. While not elite in any one category, he is effective because of his ability to make plays in all three zones and get pucks, and or his body to the net. Minten does flash offensive upside as a goal scorer because of a quick release and good hands near the crease. He brings a physical element, although there does appear to be a need for him to bulk up a bit more to be more consistent in this area as an NHL player. While he does not project to be a game breaker for the Bruins, Minten could end up as a very high end third line player who can play on both special teams’ units. Given the big sell off that they had at the deadline, don’t be shocked to see Minten get a strong look to close out this season, with an eye on including him in the team’s main lineup next year.

Chase Stillman - Wing - Pittsburgh Penguins

A former first round selection by the New Jersey Devils, Stillman had a very promising first pro season in their system last year, after a rather disappointing OHL career that saw his offensive production stagnate. It gave some hope that he could, in fact, develop into a useful NHL player. However, in his second pro year in the AHL, Stillman’s taken a step back and that likely led to the trade to Pittsburgh. At this point, Stillman’s NHL upside is pretty limited. He hasn’t developed the offensive tools to be a significant contributor to an NHL lineup. However, there’s still a chance that he could become a high energy, fourth line winger for the Penguins. He’s an intense competitor who can retrieve pucks, get to the net, and bring a physical element. The key for Stillman will be to continue to improve his two-way game so that he can be more trusted in that role, in addition to obviously improving his puck skill and confidence with the puck. A weaker Pens system could offer him an opportunity to earn NHL ice time in the coming years.

William Zellers - Wing - Boston Bruins

Zellers is a player with significant offensive upside as a pro, but there will need to be a lot of patience exhibited by the Bruins. Drafted out of Shattuck St. Mary’s (USHS-Prep) last year, Zellers opted to play in the USHL this year with Green Bay before heading to North Dakota (NCAA). That decision has paid dividends as Zellers has been one of the USHL’s top performers all season long, leading the league in goals by a significant margin. Coming out of the prep loop, his game needed a lot of refinement and there was some concern that he wasn’t powerful or dynamic enough to carry over his offensive prowess to higher levels. With his strong USHL play this season, that’s the first rung of the ladder checked off. Zellers may not be dynamic in terms of explosiveness, but he’s got quick feet and he’s great at finding gaps in coverage to utilize his excellent shot. Zellers’ hands are also excellent, as he routinely escapes pressure and creates extra time/space for himself to prolong possession or get pucks into the slot. Likely at least a three-year player at UND, the Bruins won’t quite know what they have in Zellers for a few years, but the progress he has shown this year offers hope that he can be a potential top six player in the future for them.

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 20: Toronto Maple Leafs Right Wing Nikita Grebenkin (71) reacts during the NHL regular season game between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Toronto Maple Leafs on November 20, 2024, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire)

Nikita Grebenkin - Wing - Philadelphia Flyers

A key piece in the Scott Laughton deal, Grebenkin (or Grebyonkin as it is sometimes spelled) is a player Philly fans are likely to really admire. He brings both physicality and skill from the wing and has had a solid start to his pro career in North America this year, following a breakout season in the KHL last year. Grebenkin’s hands are top notch, and he can be a real asset deep in the offensive zone with how he can protect the puck and prolong possession. He’s also a very consistent physical player; a pest if you will, who is active on the forecheck and who has a desire to get to the net and play through the middle. He’s received a few looks from the Leafs this year in a limited role and I’d expect him to get a good look in Philadelphia to close out the year. Interestingly enough, he’s close with top Flyers’ rookie Matvei Michkov. One would expect them to get a look playing alongside each other. The best-case scenario here for Philadelphia would be that Grebenkin develops into a solid middle six option in the near future.

Calum Ritchie - Center - New York Islanders

The top NHL prospect moved this deadline, the Islanders got a good one in Cal Ritchie. A first rounder by the Avs, Ritchie started the year in Colorado before being sent back to Oshawa of the OHL. The big pivot is a naturally talented playmaker; the kind of player who elevates the play of their wingers with how well he sees the ice. He controls the pace of play well thanks to strong skating ability and puck control, and he has worked hard to be more “middle of the ice centric.” He’s terrific at drawing in pressure before dishing off; an expert of the slip pass into the slot. Ritchie has also worked hard to make his two-way game more consistent by upping his physical play and intensity level. While I’m not sure I see Ritchie as a true number one center, he does project as a second line staple who can be a consistent offensive contributor in the future. Depending on how Ritchie’s offseason goes, he could end up playing a middle six role for the Islanders as early as next year, especially if they end up moving one of their higher priced forwards to help with their cap crunch.

Marat Khusnutdinov - Center - Boston Bruins

A full time NHL player since coming over from the KHL, you could definitely make the argument that he’s no longer a prospect. However, I’ve included Khusnutdinov because he’s been used in such a minimal role thus far in Minnesota, that I’m not sure we’ve gotten a great read on his true NHL upside. A competitive two-way pivot, Khusnutdinov projects almost similarly to the recently acquired Fraser Minten; it would be interesting to see them on the same line at some point to close out the year. He skates fairly well and can push pace. He’s active on the forecheck and backcheck. He is aggressive physically. He’s not really a high skill guy, which likely limits his offensive upside. However, he’s probably got a little bit more to offer offensively than what we have seen thus far. A short trip to the AHL (where Khusnutdinov has yet to play) might actually be beneficial to him, allowing him to play a more offensive role to build confidence in his on puck play.

NEWARK, NJ - JANUARY 22: Vegas Golden Knights center Brendan Brisson (19) looks on during a game between the Vegas Golden Knights and New Jersey Devils on January 22, 2024 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

Brendan Brisson - Wing - New York Rangers

After it looked like Brisson’s development had stagnated in the Vegas system, a change of scenery could do him well. A former first round selection of the Golden Knights, Brisson is the son of super-agent Pat Brisson. A strong offensive player, Brisson’s point production has dried up this year, his third as a pro. He’s now facing a major crossroads in his career as his ELC ends at the end of the year and his waiver eligibility dries up. With the Rangers, it could be a make-or-break situation. Interestingly enough, Brisson’s bread and butter as a junior and college player was his shot and ability to execute on the powerplay, however, thus far as a pro that hasn’t really been the case. The Rangers would be smart to try to nurture that in Hartford, to get his game back on track. The million-dollar question is, does Brisson have the kind of physical attributes required (dynamic skating, physicality), or the high-end skill required to be a top six NHL player? It’s becoming more and more likely that he settles as more of a tweener, but let’s see how the change of scenery in New York affects him.

Herman Traff - Wing - Anaheim Ducks

One of our draft favourites last year, Traff has had a solid year in Sweden playing a depth role at the pro level (split between the SHL and Allsvenskan). He has really intriguing physical tools; size, speed, and tenacity. He plays a “hard” game. He is really effective as a forechecker and as a net front presence. This was on display at this year’s World Junior Championships, where Traff was a really solid and visible role player for Sweden. Traff’s offensive upside as an NHL player is likely capped; we’re not looking at a top of the lineup player. However, we do love the fit for him in Anaheim where he can operate as a potentially solid, middle of the lineup complement to some of the higher skilled players they’ve accumulated. The question is, where does Traff play next year? Will Anaheim bring him over to play in the AHL or will they let him play another year of pro in Sweden?

Max Wanner - Defense - Boston Bruins

A big right shot defender, Wanner was proving to be one of the most underrated players in the Oilers’ system after a strong pro debut last year. However, his role hasn’t been as concrete this year and he’s taken a step backwards. So, what is Wanner moving forward? The answer to that question remains to be seen. Wanner has solid mobility for a bigger defender. He can be tough to play against physically. He can move the puck effectively and execute a breakout. At the WHL level, he showed an ability to quarterback the powerplay. There are some solid pieces there, but they just haven’t come together. If the Bruins develop him well, there’s a chance that he could develop into a solid third pairing defender for them who can kill penalties and play a reliable game. There aren’t many pro ready blueline prospects in the Bruins’ system so if Wanner can put things together in a new system, he could end up a solid depth option, sooner rather than later.

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW JERSEY DEVILS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #20

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Josh Bell — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 13:00:49 +0000

_{NEWARK, NJ - JULY 14: New Jersey Devils defenseman Seamus Casey (72) skates during New Jersey Devils Development Camp on July 14, 2023, at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 20th (Previous Rank - 26th)
GM: Tom Fitzgerald Hired: July 2020
COACH: Sheldon Keefe Hired: May 2024

The New Jersey Devils missed the postseason for the 11th time in 14 years, and yet, they remain one of the more intriguing teams in the league on the cusp of a breakout. With a young core headlined by Jack Hughes (23 years old), Jesper Bratt (26), Nico Hischier (25), Luke Hughes (20), Simon Nemec (20), and Timo Meier (27), it feels like this is just the beginning of a fruitful window for this east coast franchise.

While their current prospect system hovers around the midrange, the Devils still carry some intriguing young talent, particularly on the backend. Seamus Casey (ranked 81st) has signed and is expected to report to Utica for the 2024-25 season, while recently drafted Anton Silayev (24th), adds further promise to their defensive pipeline. With these additions, combined with the already graduated pieces, the future of the Devils' blue line looks secure for the next decade. Don’t overlook fifth-round defender Topias Vilén (184th), who is developing nicely as a low-key option after posting 29 points in 54 games during his rookie campaign in the AHL.

A little further from home, the Devils’ remaining top 200 prospects include Arseny Gritsyuk (127th), now 23, who continues to produce in Russia, and Lenni Hämeenaho (151st), who has consistently upped his game each year in Liiga.

Between the pipes, GM Tom Fitzgerald made moves to shore up their immediate goaltending needs, signing veterans Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. Additionally, they used their 2024 second-round pick to select one of the more intriguing goaltending prospects in this year’s draft, Mikhail Yegorov. Ranked 253rd in our McKeen’s rankings, Yegorov will bring his skills to Boston University in 2024-25. While the Devils boast a lot of depth with six goaltenders under contract, the overall quality still lags behind other teams.

Exciting times are on the horizon for New Jersey, with or without a top-rated prospect system.

New Jersey Devils Top-15 Prospects

1. Anton Silayev

Gone are the days when giant defencemen with limited skating and stickhandling were prized for their physicality. Today’s ideal defenceman excels in mobility, transition, and puck-handling, and Russian prospect Anton Silayev exemplifies this new breed. At just 17, Silayev achieved unprecedented success in the KHL, setting records for points by a U18 defenceman and showing off impressive offensive skills despite a modest start. Silayev's physical presence is matched by his exceptional coordination and skating ability. Unlike most players of his size, he moves fluidly, protects the puck effectively, and displays deceptive footwork. His ability to join the rush, find gaps, and shoot from the point is notable, and his lateral movement and strength make him effective in shutting down attackers. Though he experienced some inconsistency and reduced ice time later in the season, Silayev’s unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism suggests he could become an exceptional NHL defenceman.

2. Seamus Casey

Drafted 46th overall by the Devils in 2022, Seamus Casey didn't grab headlines in his sophomore year at Michigan, but quietly put together a strong season. The undersized defenceman (5-foot-9, 161 pounds) chipped in offensively with seven goals and 38 assists for 45 points in 40 games. His skating and puck-moving ability remain his biggest strengths, allowing him to contribute in transition and spark the offence. However, questions linger about his defensive play. While he boasts good positioning, his size can be a disadvantage in board battles and against bigger forwards. Improving his physicality will be crucial as he progresses to the pro game. Overall, his sophomore season was a step in the right direction. He showcased his offensive potential while continuing to develop defensively. Casey could develop into a reliable two-way defenceman at the NHL level.

3. Arseny Gritsyuk

Arseni Gritsyuk's 2023-24 campaign was a coming-of-age party in the KHL. The young winger carved out a niche on SKA St. Petersburg's roster, notching 38 points (19 goals, 19 assists) in 50 regular-season games. While the scoring totals are respectable, it was his playoff performance that truly turned heads. He emerged as a postseason difference-maker, tallying six points in 10 games and helping SKA reach the Gagarin Cup quarterfinals. The knock on his game used to be his inconsistency. Flashes of brilliance were often overshadowed by stretches of disappearing acts. However, this past season showcased a newfound maturity in his game. He remained a threat offensively, but his defensive awareness and overall work ethic took a noticeable leap. Gritsyuk's stock is undoubtedly on the rise. While another year in the KHL could be beneficial, whispers of a potential NHL jump are starting to surface. His blend of offensive skill and improving two-way play makes him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams searching for young wingers with high ceilings.

4. Lenni Hameenaho

Drafted 58th overall by the Devils in 2023, Lenni Hämeenaho's Liiga season started with a bang. The Finnish winger led Porin Ässät in scoring early on, showcasing the offensive flair that led to the Devils drafting him. He finished the year with a respectable 14 goals and 31 points in 46 games, but whispers of a potential breakout faded as the season progressed. While displaying flashes of brilliance – slick dekes, pinpoint passes – consistency remained a concern. There were stretches where he disappeared offensively, raising questions about his overall impact. However, at 19 years old, there's plenty of time to refine his game. The Devils have a decision to make. He could benefit from another year in Liiga to solidify his production. But a taste of North American hockey in the AHL could also be an option. One thing is clear: Hämeenaho's development is worth watching. He has the tools to be a future contributor for the Devils, but consistency will be key.

5. Topias Vilen

Topias Vilen's first taste of pro hockey was a mixed bag. Splitting time between the AHL's Utica Comets (54 games) and the ECHL's Adirondack Thunder (six games), Vilen showcased his physical tools (6-foot-1, 194 pounds) and strong skating. He chipped in offensively with 39 points (five goals, 34 assists) across both leagues. However, consistency, once again, remains a sticking point. Vilen would impress by delivering a pinpoint breakout pass or orchestrating a shutdown defensive play – but these moments were interspersed with stretches of invisibility. Decision-making can be suspect at times, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. The Devils’ prospect remains a boom-or-bust proposition. Refining his decision-making and maintaining a higher level of engagement will be crucial. If he can do so, his future as a reliable two-way defenceman with offensive upside remains tantalizing. Devils’ fans should be keeping a close eye on this prospect.

6. Mikhail Yegorov

It’s intriguing to consider how Mikhail Yegorov’s draft stock might have been even higher if his situation last season had been different. Ranked first among North American goalies by NHL Central Scouting, his potential is evident, but his stock could have risen further if Russia had participated in international tournaments and if Omaha had made a USHL playoff run. Despite some subpar statistics, Yegorov is one of the most balanced and well-rounded goalies from the 2024 class. He has ideal NHL size, athleticism, refined technique, and impressive focus, demonstrated by his ability to handle a high volume of shots behind a weak team. His lower ranking compared to Carter George and Pavel Moysevich was due to his limited high-level experience and lack of performance in critical moments, but he does have the tools to outperform them in the long run. He should have another season in the USHL prior to making the jump to the NCAA’s Boston University.

7. Nolan Foote

Nolan Foote's 2023-24 season was a masterclass in "what could have been." Drafted 27th overall in 2019, the winger battled injuries all year. He appeared in a mere four games for New Jersey, registering a single point. A conditioning stint with their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, showed flashes of his potential (three goals, one assist in four games), but ultimately wasn't enough of a sample size to crack the NHL lineup consistently. This stop-start development is a recurring theme for Foote. His blend of size (6-foot-3) and skill is undeniable, but staying healthy remains a major obstacle. The question for Devils fans – and fantasy hockey enthusiasts alike – is whether Foote can overcome his injury woes and finally translate his potential into NHL production. The 2024-25 season will be a critical year for the young forward’s development.

8. Chase Stillman

Chase Stillman's first pro season in the AHL wasn't a headline grabber, but it offered valuable development minutes for the Devils' 2021 first rounder. He notched 24 points (14 goals, 10 assists) in 54 games for the Utica Comets, a decent showing for a rookie. The knock on him coming out of juniors was inconsistency. While flashes of his hard-nosed play and scoring touch were evident, there were stretches where he could not find the scoresheet. This pattern continued in the AHL, raising questions about his offensive consistency at the pro level. However, there were bright spots. There was a willingness to play a physical game, racking up 72 penalty minutes. His skating remains a strength, allowing him to create space and pressure defenders. The team will likely want to see more consistent offensive production this season, but Stillman's rookie campaign offered a glimpse of his potential as a future bottom six forward who can contribute on both ends of the ice.

9. Jakub Malek

Fourth-round pick Jakub Malek turned heads in Finland's Liiga last season. The 6-foot-4 netminder posted a respectable 0.914 save percentage across 27 games with Ilves, solidifying his reputation as a strong prospect. He showcased good positioning and a calm demeanour in the crease. While not overly athletic, his size allows him to cover a lot of net. However, consistency remains a question mark. There were stretches where he looked like a future NHL starter, followed by games where rebound control became an issue. Development in puck handling and communication could also benefit his future. Overall, 2023-24 was a positive step and one that New Jersey hopes continues moving forward. The Devils might be tempted to bring him to North America this season, likely starting in the AHL. A strong showing there could put him on the fast track to the NHL.

10. Josh Filmon

Josh Filmon enjoyed a productive season statistically, but questions linger about his overall development. The 6-foot-3 winger notched a respectable 27 goals and 67 points in 64 WHL games for the Swift Current Broncos. However, that production came after a scorching 47-goal campaign the year prior. While Filmon continues to show a knack for finding the net, there are concerns about his consistency and playmaking ability. The Devils would like to see him elevate his game beyond pure goal-scoring and become a more well-rounded offensive threat. There's also a desire for him to demonstrate a stronger understanding of the defensive side of the puck. Despite these concerns, the scoring prowess remains intriguing. The team might be content to see him return to the WHL for another year to develop his overall game. However, a pro debut in the AHL isn't entirely out of the question, especially if he can rediscover his scoring touch from the previous season.

11. Adam Beckman

Adam Beckman is an offensive dynamo with excellent puck skills and a sharp hockey sense. His ability to create scoring opportunities and finish plays with precision stands out. While his defensive game could use refinement, Beckman’s impressive vision, quick release, and scoring touch make him a high-upside prospect with significant NHL potential.

12. Samu Salminen

Samu Salminen's journey from the U20 SM-sarja to the NCAA's University of Connecticut has been steady. He posted 17 points in each of his first two seasons, showing a well-rounded skill set and strong hockey IQ, especially on the power play. However, his skating remains a concern, not matching his offensive creativity. His continued development in Connecticut will be key in determining if he can refine his skating and become a consistent top six forward in the NHL.

13. Herman Traff

Herman Träff might not have flashy point totals, but he excels in his play style. A big, physical winger with explosive skating and a wicked wrist shot, Träff plays with intensity and is not afraid to challenge defenders. His confidence can lead to risky plays, but it's part of his learning process. While his game reading and decision-making were tested in the SHL and HockeyAllsvenskan, he used his size and skating effectively as a forechecker. Träff could develop into a well-rounded winger with goal-scoring potential.

14. Ethan Edwards

Ethan Edwards is a skilled defenceman with impressive offensive instincts and a strong skating stride. His ability to transition the puck and contribute to the power play stands out. While his defensive zone positioning requires refinement, Edwards’ dynamic offensive game and agility make him a promising prospect with significant NHL potential.

15. Cam Squires

Cam Squires is an energetic forward with a high work rate and solid offensive instincts. His speed and tenacity make him effective on the forecheck, while his sharp vision and playmaking ability create scoring chances. Though his defensive game requires refinement, Squires’ skill and work ethic offer significant NHL potential as a dynamic, high-energy player.

2024 NHL DRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON TOP 100 – Celebrini sits comfortably on top – Demidov and Parekh among risers in ranking – Strong defense group defines this draft class

Brock Otten — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:58:41 +0000

It’s time to update and expand our 2024 NHL Draft rankings. Since our preliminary ranking in December, we’ve passed some major events on the scouting calendar, like the World Juniors, CHL Top Prospect’s Game, World Junior A Challenge, and the USA Hockey All American Game.

Macklin Celebrini still sits comfortably at the top of our rankings. Not only has he continued to be a difference maker for Boston University, but he was also a solid contributor at the World Juniors for an underwhelming Canadian team, an impressive feat for a double underager. In our opinion, he is unquestionably the top prospect available this year and is the one player we view as a near surefire high impact player at the NHL level.

One player moving up our ranking inside the top ten is Ivan Demidov. While ice time issues have limited his impact at the KHL level, he has been an absolute monster at the MHL level and in a draft that we feel lacks high end upside, he stands out as a potential difference maker. One player falling inside of our top ten is Cole Eiserman. While the goal scoring ability is unquestionably impressive, we’ve been left wanting more from the rest of his game and feel that his development is showing signs of plateauing.

Saginaw defenseman Zayne Parekh is another big-time mover and shaker for us as he pushes his way inside the top ten. At this point, his production and offensive upside is too vast to ignore. Yes, there are questions regarding his defensive game. Yes, there are questions about how he fits into an NHL system given Saginaw’s unique modern approach. However, the skill and sense are so high end that we believe the reward outweighs the risk.

Other movers and shakers include Jett Luchanko (40th to 18th), Alfons Freij (32nd to 21st), Harrison Brunicke (HM to 25th), and Dom Badinka (58th to 28th). Luchanko is a speedy, playmaking pivot who brings consistent effort in all three zones. As he bulks up, he should be able to become a more consistent point producer. Freij has been terrific internationally this year for the Swedish U18 team and is starting to remind us of Tom Willander in regard to his steady presence on the ice at both ends. Brunicke is a very mobile, right-handed shot defender with size who remains a work in progress. He flashes high end skill and upside in the defensive end, and we believe that he is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of. Dom Badinka has a similar profile to Freij in the sense that he has a very projectable frame and skill set. He has been steadily improving in the SHL this year with Malmo and the Czech blueliner projects as an all situations top four, right shot blueliner.

Overall, 2024 is still holding strong as a quality draft for defenders. In fact, 14 of our first round graded players are defenseman. On the other hand, the strength of this goaltending crop remains to be seen. OHL netminders Carter George and Ryerson Leenders remain our top ranked goalies and the only ones inside of our Top 70. There are others pushing up the list (like NTDP netminder Nick Kempf and WHL re-entry Lukas Matecha), but it’s not looking like the ideal year to use a high pick on a stopper.

In the coming weeks, expect to see a podcast on our new YT channel (here), where Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, Associate Director of Scouting, Derek Neumeier, and Director of Video Scouting, Josh Bell, debate the midseason list and provide some insight into why certain players are ranked where they are.

RK	Name	POS	TEAM	GP	G/GAA	A/SV%	TP	PIM	HT/WT	DOB
1	Macklin Celebrini	C	Boston University (HE)	25	22	19	41	10	6-0/190	13-Jun-06
2	Sam Dickinson	D	London (OHL)	52	14	39	53	24	6-3/195	7-Jun-06
3	Ivan Demidov	RW	SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)	23	20	25	45	16	5-11/170	10-Dec-05
4	Anton Silayev	D	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	57	3	8	11	8	6-7/210	11-Apr-06
5	Cayden Lindstrom	C	Medicine Hat (WHL)	32	27	19	46	66	6-4/215	3-Feb-06
6	Berkly Catton	C	Spokane (WHL)	49	38	44	82	37	5-11/170	14-Jan-06
7	Artyom Levshunov	D	Michigan State (B1G)	30	8	20	28	40	6-2/200	28-Oct-05
8	Konsta Helenius	C	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	40	12	19	31	6	5-11/180	11-May-06
9	Cole Eiserman	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	37	38	22	60	28	6-0/195	29-Aug-06
10	Zayne Parekh	D	Saginaw (OHL)	49	25	49	74	40	6-0/180	15-Feb-06
11	Carter Yakemchuk	D	Calgary (WHL)	48	24	29	53	95	6-3/190	29-Sep-05
12	Tij Iginla	C	Kelowna (WHL)	48	35	28	63	25	6-0/185	1-Aug-06
13	Liam Greentree	RW	Windsor (OHL)	46	28	41	69	25	6-2/200	1-Jan-06
14	Trevor Connelly	LW	Tri-City (USHL)	34	17	31	48	40	6-1/160	28-Feb-06
15	Zeev Buium	D	Denver (NCHC)	26	7	27	34	16	6-0/185	7-Dec-05
16	Michael Brandsegg Nygard	RW	Mora (Allsvenskan)	32	6	7	13	14	6-1/195	5-Oct-05
17	Adam Jiříček	D	HC Plzen (Czechia)	19	0	1	1	2	6-2/175	28-Jun-06
18	Jett Luchanko	C	Guelph (OHL)	50	17	37	54	32	5-11/185	21-Aug-06
19	Matvei Shuravin	D	CSKA Moskva (KHL)	22	0	7	7	26	6-2/170	22-Mar-06
20	Michael Hage	C	Chicago (USHL)	37	21	23	44	35	6-1/190	14-Apr-06
21	Alfons Freij	D	Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)	33	11	15	26	12	6-1/190	12-Feb-06
22	Emil Hemming	RW	TPS (Fin-Liiga)	35	7	4	11	0	6-1/200	27-Jun-06
23	Ryder Ritchie	RW	Prince Albert (WHL)	34	13	18	31	16	6-0/175	3-Aug-06
24	Sacha Boisvert	C	Muskegon (USHL)	41	27	18	45	42	6-2/180	17-Mar-06
25	Harrison Brunicke	D	Kamloops (WHL)	46	10	11	21	45	6-3/185	8-May-06
26	Andrew Basha	LW	Medicine Hat (WHL)	47	23	44	67	32	6-0/185	8-Nov-05
27	Henry Mews	D	Ottawa (OHL)	46	8	34	42	46	6-0/185	9-Mar-06
28	Dom Badinka	D	Malmo (Swe J20)	15	2	10	12	39	6-3/185	27-Nov-05
29	Beckett Sennecke	RW	Oshawa (OHL)	46	19	26	45	53	6-2/180	28-Jan-06
30	Igor Chernyshov	LW	MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)	18	10	14	24	8	6-2/190	30-Nov-05
31	E.J. Emery	D	USN U18 (USDP)	41	0	10	10	51	6-3/185	30-Mar-06
32	Leo Sahlin Wallenius	D	Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)	34	7	23	30	30	6-0/180	10-Apr-06
33	Dean Letourneau	C	St. Andrew's (CHS-O)	14	14	11	25	6	6-7/210	21-Feb-06
34	Yegor Surin	C	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	37	19	27	46	104	6-1/190	1-Aug-06
35	Adam Jecho	C	Edmonton (WHL)	38	15	17	32	18	6-5/200	24-Mar-06
36	Maxim Massé	RW	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	51	26	26	52	16	6-2/190	7-Apr-06
37	Lucas Pettersson	C	MoDo Hockey (Swe J20)	36	20	23	43	38	5-11/170	17-Apr-06
38	Charlie Elick	D	Brandon (WHL)	51	4	19	23	47	6-3/200	17-Jan-06
39	Raoul Boilard	C	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	52	21	31	52	32	6-2/190	7-Jan-06
40	Matvei Gridin	RW	Muskegon (USHL)	41	20	30	50	28	6-1/185	1-Mar-06
41	Nikita Artamonov	LW	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	48	7	15	22	12	5-11/185	17-Nov-05
42	Jesse Pulkkinen	D	JYP (Fin-U20)	18	11	17	28	47	6-6/215	27-Dec-04
43	Leon Muggli	D	Zug (Sui-NL)	4	0	2	2	4	6-0/165	9-Jul-06
44	Teddy Stiga	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	41	24	25	49	26	5-10/155	5-Apr-06
45	Aron Kiviharju	D	HIFK (Fin-Liiga)	7	1	1	2	0	5-10/165	25-Jan-06
46	Miguel Marques	RW	Lethbridge (WHL)	50	22	37	59	47	5-11/170	8-Mar-06
47	John Mustard	C	Waterloo (USHL)	39	22	18	40	22	6-0/185	16-Aug-06
48	Lukas Fischer	D	Sarnia (OHL)	52	4	22	26	50	6-4/180	6-Sep-06
49	Simon Zether	C	Rogle (Swe J20)	17	11	16	27	25	6-3/185	18-Oct-05
50	Luke Misa	C	Mississauga (OHL)	51	21	46	67	8	5-10/175	25-Nov-05
51	Sebastian Soini	D	Ilves (Fin-U20)	8	0	0	0	8	6-2/195	10-Jun-06
52	Carson Wetsch	RW	Calgary (WHL)	49	19	20	39	53	6-2/185	4-May-06
53	Terik Parascak	RW	Prince George (WHL)	52	31	42	73	37	5-11/180	28-May-06
54	Christian Humphreys	C	USN U18 (USDP)	35	15	25	40	14	5-11/170	4-Feb-06
55	Cole Hutson	D	USN U18 (USDP)	41	11	26	37	44	5-10/160	28-Jun-06
56	Cole Beaudoin	C	Barrie (OHL)	48	23	25	48	23	6-2/200	24-Apr-06
57	Marek Vanacker	LW	Brantford (OHL)	51	27	34	61	41	6-0/165	12-Apr-06
58	Stian Solberg	D	Vålerenga (Nor)	34	3	9	12	12	6-2/200	29-Dec-06
59	Herman Traff	RW	HV71 (Swe J20)	22	11	7	18	69	6-3/195	31-Dec-05
60	Kamil Bednarik	C	USN U18 (USDP)	41	18	25	43	40	6-0/185	26-May-06
61	Tomáš Galvas	D	Bili Tygri Liberec (Czechia)	26	2	4	6	6	5-10/150	11-Feb-06
62	Carter George	G	Owen Sound (OHL)	41	3.09	0.914	-	-	6-0/160	20-May-06
63	Ryerson Leenders	G	Mississauga (OHL)	38	3.19	0.909	-	-	6-1/175	1-Jun-06
64	Tanner Howe	LW	Regina (WHL)	52	24	38	62	48	5-11/180	28-Nov-05
65	Colton Roberts	D	Vancouver (WHL)	50	7	17	24	45	6-4/195	8-Jun-06
66	Ben Danford	D	Oshawa (OHL)	51	1	30	31	21	6-0/175	6-Feb-06
67	Eriks Mateiko	LW	Saint John (QMJHL)	40	19	19	38	18	6-4/210	18-Nov-05
68	Daniil Ustinkov	D	ZSC (Sui-NL)	18	0	1	1	0	6-0/200	26-Aug-06
69	Veeti Vaisanen	D	KooKoo (Fin-Liiga)	40	2	7	9	12	6-0/175	15-Feb-06
70	Clarke Caswell	C	Swift Current (WHL)	51	16	37	53	14	5-11/170	2-Feb-06
71	Jakub Fibigr	D	Mississauga (OHL)	44	6	20	26	33	6-0/170	22-Jul-06
72	Ondrej Kos	LW	KOOVEE (Fin-Liiga)	14	3	2	5	8	6-1/150	7-Mar-06
73	Sam O'Reilly	RW	London (OHL)	52	15	30	45	24	6-1/175	30-Mar-06
74	Jack Berglund	C	Färjestad BK (Swe J20)	37	14	18	32	18	6-3/210	10-Apr-06
75	Linus Eriksson	C	Djurgardens IF (Swe J20)	24	5	16	21	8	6-0/185	23-Mar-06
76	Tarin Smith	D	Everett (WHL)	54	7	30	37	45	6-1/175	24-Mar-06
77	Nick Kempf	G	USN U18 (USDP)	22	3.02	0.901			6-2/190	1-Mar-06
78	Melvin Fernstrom	RW	Örebro HK (Swe J20)	38	26	28	54	26	6-1/185	28-Feb-06
79	Alexander Zetterberg	C	Örebro HK J20	35	19	27	46	10	5-9/160	27-Apr-06
80	Spencer Gill	D	Rimouski (QMJHL)	50	9	23	32	50	6-3/180	17-Aug-06
81	Kevin He	LW	Niagara (OHL)	51	26	18	44	47	5-11/185	30-Apr-06
82	Aatos Koivu	C	TPS (Fin-U20)	23	15	14	29	28	6-0/165	22-Jun-06
83	Will Skahan	D	USN U18 (USDP)	40	2	7	9	63	6-4/210	14-May-06
84	Justin Poirier	RW	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	52	40	20	60	58	5-8/185	4-Sep-06
85	Maxmilian Curran	C	Tri-City (WHL)	40	5	27	32	25	6-3/190	27-Aug-06
86	Tory Pitner	D	Youngstown (USHL)	33	7	14	21	34	6-1/185	6-Mar-06
87	Lukas Matecha	G	Tri-City (WHL)	29	3.14	0.910			6-3/195	21-Mar-05
88	Brodie Ziemer	RW	USN U18 (USDP)	41	20	22	42	14	5-10/190	22-Feb-06
89	Niilopekka Muhonen	D	KalPa (Fin U20)	25	4	6	10		6-4/185	28-Feb-06
90	Anthony Romani	D	North Bay (OHL)	51	44	40	84	16	6-0/180	12-Jul-05
91	Julius Miettinen	RW	Everett (WHL)	53	22	24	46	30	6-3/205	20-Jan-06
92	Luca Marrelli	D	Oshawa (OHL)	50	2	38	40	14	6-1/185	4-Oct-05
93	Filip Sitar	C	Malmo (Swe J20)	33	12	31	43	10	5-11/175	29-Jun-05
94	Noel Fransen	D	Färjestad BK (Swe J20)	36	17	21	38	16	6-0/185	7-Dec-05
95	William Zellers	LW	Shattuck St. Marys (USHS-Prep)	43	41	43	84	20	5-10/165	4-Apr-06
96	Gabriel Eliasson	D	HV71 J20	27	0	3	3	81	6-6/205	9-Sep-06
97	Kim Saarinen	G	HPK (Fin-U20)	22	2.34	0.918			6-4/180	22-Jul-06
98	Max Vilen	D	Malmo (Swe J20)	39	1	12	13	8	6-2/200	29-Jun-06
99	Gabriel Frasca	C	Kingston (OHL)	26	9	9	18	10	6-0/170	18-Feb-06
100	Harrison Meneghin	G	Lethbridge (WHL)	41	2.46	0.922			6-3/165	13-Sep-06
HM	Tanner Adams	RW	Providence (NCAA)	27	5	12	17	2	5-11/185	2-Sep
HM	Alexandre Blais	C	Rimouski (QMJHL)	53	18	48	66	30	5-10/155	14-Nov-05
HM	Viggo Gustavsson	D	HV71 (Swe J20)	33	1	10	11	38	6-2/195	11-Sep-06
HM	Andrei Krutov	LW	Chaika Nizhny Novgorod (MHL)	35	15	24	39	10	5-11/175	25-Apr-06
HM	Darels Uljanskis	D	AIK (Swe J20)	35	7	16	23	14	6-1/185	25-Aug-06
HM	Pavel Moysevich	G	SKA St. Petersburg (VHL)	19	2.31	0.927			6-5/175	29-Sep-04
HM	Ondrej Becher	C	Prince George (WHL)	42	19	40	59	32	6-1/175	22-Feb-04
HM	Veit Oswald	RW	EHC Munchen (DEL)	32	8	4	12	0	6-1/165	31-Aug-04
HM	Nathan Villeneuve	C	Sudbury (OHL)	47	18	21	39	52	6-0/185	13-Apr-06
HM	Petr Sikora	C	HC Ocelari Trinec (Cze U20)	27	12	21	33	26	5-11/170	2-Jan-06
HM	Oskar Vuollet	C	Skelleftea AIK (Swe J20)	32	17	24	41	6	5-10/170	3-Dec-05
HM	Kenta Isogai	F	Wenatchee (WHL)	49	25	48	73	22	5-11/155	28-Aug-04
HM	Marcus Kearsey	D	Charlottetown (QMJHL)	51	5	32	37	14	5-11/170	17-03-06
HM	Nate Misskey	D	Victoria (WHL	40	6	26	32	52	6-3/210	1-Dec-05
HM	Thomas Desruisseaux	C	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	52	10	34	44	16	5-11/160	10-Mar-06
HM	Jonathan Morello	C	St. Michaels (OJHL)	44	23	27	50	20	6-1/175	31-Jul-06
HM	Kieron Walton	LW	Sudbury (OHL)	47	15	19	34	12	6-5/205	22-Apr-06
HM	Adam Kleber	D	Lincoln (USHL)	33	5	13	18	20	6-5/205	24-Mar-06
HM	Riley Patterson	C	Barrie (OHL)	49	18	27	45	4	6-0/175	22-Mar-06
HM	Eemil Vinni	G	JoKP (Fin-Liiga)	27	2.5	0.9	-	-	6-2/285	18-Dec-06