Jack Pridham – McKeen's Hockey

CHL NOTEBOOK: Playoff Storylines to Watch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blake Montgomery mix #GoSensGo

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

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

— Kyle Watson (@kyle_nw) January 13, 2025

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

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

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

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

Ethan Belchetz (Tim Cornett/OHL Images)

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

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

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

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

OHL Eastern Conference: Who is the real favourite?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A post shared by Barrie Colts (@barriecoltshockeyohl)

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

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

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

— Derek Neumeier (@Derek_N_NHL) February 28, 2025

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

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

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

— Kingston Frontenacs (@KingstonFronts) February 2, 2025

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

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

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

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

WHL Western Conference: A Battle Between American Heavyweights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHL Eastern Conference: A Bloodbath in the Central Division

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brayden Yager (Lethbridge Hurricanes)

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

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

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

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

Caleb Desnoyers (David St. Louis)

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

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

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

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

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

MCKEEN’S HOCKEY 2024 NHL DRAFT GUIDE: TWO-ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Brock Otten — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 15:03:17 +0000

#1. San Jose Sharks - Macklin Celebrini - C - Boston University (HE)

At this point, San Jose might as well announce this now. The entire hockey world knows that Celebrini is going to be its guy. This is a pivot without any true weaknesses who projects as a franchise leader for the Sharks moving forward. Think of the impact that Jonathan Toews had on turning the Blackhawks rebuild around.

#2. Chicago Blackhawks - Artyom Levshunov – D - Michigan State (B1G)

Part of me believes that Chicago might really like Sam Dickinson because of how much value they have been placing on skating in recent drafts, but another part believes that Levshunov will be the Hawks guy. We prefer Dickinson, but there’s no doubting that Levshunov has among the highest two-way upside of any defender in this draft. With his high-end skill and offensive aggressiveness, he’ll be able to give the Hawks a dynamic puck mover on both of their first two pairings (with Korchinski).

#3. Anaheim Ducks - Anton Silayev – D - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)

On one hand, the Ducks haven’t used a Top 50 pick on a Russian based player (as in playing in the KHL, MHL, etc) since Stanislav Chistov in 2001. It’s obvious that they have preferences for other regions. However, what’s also obvious is the fit here. The Ducks have so many terrific puck moving defenders. The system is loaded. However, the team’s high end defensively oriented prospects have had their development stall like Noah Warren and Drew Helleson. Anaheim could see Silayev as an amazing fit beside guys like Mintyukov and Zellweger, allowing them to play freely and aggressively.

#4. Columbus Blue Jackets - Ivan Demidov – RW - SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)

The Jackets have had great success with young Russian players recently, even forming a great Russian kid line involving Chinakhov, Voronkov, and Marchenko. Not only is Demidov clearly the best player available at this point, but he also helps add significant skill to the wing for the organization that needs it. This is an offensive play driver solely needed.

#5. Montreal Canadiens - Cayden Lindstrom – C - Medicine Hat (WHL)

This is one of the best-case scenarios for Montreal. Is Lindstrom’s injury history a concern? Likely for some teams. However, the upside here is too large for Montreal to pass up. Not only is Lindstrom a fantastic young player, but he also helps the Canadiens get bigger and heavier up front, which was a reason for preferring Slafkovsky at first overall two years ago.

#6. Utah Hockey Club - Zeev Buium – D - Denver (NCHC)

Seems likely that Utah could lean towards taking one of the high-end offensive defenders available with this pick. In the last five drafts, the Coyotes have not taken a single player out of the OHL. This leads me to believe that Buium is a guy that the team could find really attractive at #6. He’s such an intelligent playmaker from the backend and he would really help Utah improve their transitional game and powerplay production.

#7. Ottawa Senators - Sam Dickinson – D - London (OHL)

Dickinson is the perfect defender for the modern era thanks to his high-end skating ability. He’s the kind of blueliner who projects as an all situations, minute eater. Given how terrific he has been in this year’s OHL playoffs (and the Memorial Cup), Ottawa likely sees him as a terrific fit as a “winner” who can help them get over the hump in the coming years. The Sens really need to hit on this pick and Dickinson is as safe as safe can be to be an impact player.

#8. Seattle Kraken - Beckett Sennecke – RW - Oshawa (OHL)

There is a ton of traction for Sennecke to be a high pick and Seattle strikes us as a likely landing spot. They’ve targeted the OHL pretty heavily and, playing in the Pacific, they want to load up their lineup with heavier players who can withstand the punishing style in the division. Sennecke oozes upside as an athletic winger still growing into his frame. He is skilled, physical, and intelligent. A great combination. Logic says Seattle finally uses their first on a defender, but something about this spot screams Sennecke.

#9. Calgary Flames - Tij Iginla – C - Kelowna (WHL)

Maybe this is far-fetched. But maybe it’s not. Teams don’t use top ten selections for the sole purpose of nostalgia. But how can you pass up the opportunity to draft an iconic name, who also happens to be worthy in this spot. Iginla was terrific in the second half of the year, and this gives Calgary an injection of skill and tenacity. He could have a similar impact to his father in Calgary.

#10. New Jersey Devils - Konsta Helenius – C - Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)

The Devils are a team that definitely don’t want to be picking in this range. The organization has been trying to escape the rebuilding phase, so would it not make sense for them to target a player who has great upside, but who can also make an impact pretty quickly? Helenius fits in well with the players already in New Jersey and the Devils have liked the region in recent drafts.

#11. Buffalo Sabres - Zayne Parekh – D - Saginaw (OHL)

Yeah, we know that the Sabres already have Dahlin and Power on the back end. That powerplay unit is already loaded. However, at some point, you have to say that Parekh is too good to let slide further. One of the draft’s most creative and intelligent defenders, Parekh is the ultimate wild card. He could go as high as the top five or fall out of the lottery all together. This would be great value for the Sabres.

#12. Philadelphia Flyers - Cole Eiserman – LW - U. S. NTDP U18

Often tagged as being the draft’s purest goal scorer, Eiserman had an up and down year with the NTDP. However, he still managed to break the program’s scoring record and that is impressive. Big wingers who can put the puck in the net do not grow on trees. While the Flyers could go defense here, having just dealt top prospect Cutter Gauthier for defender Jamie Drysdale, it seems unlikely that they will go that route.

#13. Minnesota Wild - Carter Yakemchuk – D - Calgary (WHL)

This seems low for Yakemchuk. But someone is going to need to fall a bit considering the talent available in the lottery. While Yakemchuk’s upside is significant, we think teams may have concerns over his puck management and skating combination. That said, he’s a great fit in Minnesota as a potential puck mover and triggerman who can help their powerplay and move quickly through the system.

#14. San Jose Sharks (via Pittsburgh Penguins) - Stian Solberg – D - Valerenga (Norway)

The draft is bound to get pretty wild around this point given the wild fluctuation among rankings. Solberg has had a ton of momentum the last month and we really like this fit. Solberg was tremendous at the World Championships, showing that he can impact the game in a lot of different ways. This is someone who can come in and be a defensive stalwart for the Sharks in the future.

#15. Detroit Red Wings - Berkly Catton – C - Spokane (WHL)

This is much lower than our ranking for Catton, but we realize that we may be more aggressive on him compared to the NHL community. He is the kind of play driver who can elevate Detroit’s first two lines in the future. He’s more skilled than Danielson and Kasper, but he has that same kind of high-end work ethic. If Catton is still available at fifteen, this should one hundred percent be his landing spot.

#16. St. Louis Blues - Trevor Connelly – LW - Tri-City (USHL)

Where does Connelly go? That’s one of the draft’s biggest questions considering the noise around his off-ice “issues.” However, we do think that someone bites considering Connelly has among the highest offensive upsides of any forward in this draft. The Blues need more firepower. They need more play drivers. Connelly is someone who can make this St. Louis team better down the line if he progresses well.

#17. Washington Capitals - Adam Jiricek – D - Plzen (Czechia)

It was a pretty tough draft year for Jiricek, after he missed the majority of the year with injury. However, he came into the year as a potential top ten selection for a reason. He’s talented and a potential two-way stalwart like his brother David. So many options here but could see the Caps lean defense if Jiricek is still on the board.

#18. Chicago Blackhawks (via New York Islanders) - Michael Brandsegg Nygard – RW - Mora (Allsvenskan)

The Hawks have really been focusing on selecting strong skaters in recent years, so there’s a chance that they team will jump on a guy like Jett Luchanko here. However, we like Brandsegg Nygard here for a few reasons. One, he’s one of the best players available. Two, he’s an excellent fit alongside some of the high-end skill that Chicago has brought in. His hard work and attention to detail could make him the kind of high-end role player that Chicago had during their Cup runs.

#19. Vegas Golden Knights - EJ Emery – D - U. S. NTDP U18

Did you know that Vegas has never drafted a player out of the U.S. NTDP? Seems wild, but this could be the year. Vegas has used their first selection on a center every year of existence. That kind of commitment is impressive. However, we believe that this is the year that the streak breaks. We love Emery’s physical tools and upside as a defensive stalwart, and he fits the exact mold of the kind of defender Vegas seems to love. The team’s defensive core is getting older, and he could be a great fit there in a few years.

#20. New York Islanders (via Tampa Bay Lightning) - Michael Hage – C - Chicago (USHL)

We like this potential landing spot for Hage. He was, perhaps, the best player in the USHL in the second half of the year. This was the real Michael Hage, after he put some personal turmoil behind him. He has upside as a top six, power center and his skill is badly needed in a prospect pool that is currently lacking it.

#21. Los Angeles Kings - Jett Luchanko – C - Guelph (OHL)

We know the Kings love the OHL. Luchanko would be a great pick here. The tenacious and intelligent pivot brings speed and playmaking ability to the table and looks like a future fixture as a second line center. There aren’t a ton of natural pivots in the system right now, so it also makes sense for Los Angeles to target that position, if a good one is available.

#22. Nashville Predators - Leo Sahlin Wallenius – D - Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)

A strong skating, potential two-way defender, Sahlin Wallenius proved to be a bit of a chameleon in his draft year. What’s his real future role? Regardless, the physical tools are going to be intriguing to a team like Nashville.

#23. Toronto Maple Leafs - Harrison Brunicke – D - Kamloops (WHL)

This would be the first time since 2018 that Toronto uses its first-round selection on a defender. We’d say it’s needed. Brunicke is a strong skating rearguard with upside at both ends. He excelled defensively at the U18’s and he’s the kind of modern-day defender that Toronto sorely lacks. The organization would have also seen a fair amount of Brunicke while scouting Fraser Minten in Kamloops.

#24. Colorado Avalanche - Igor Chernyshov – LW - Dynamo Moskva (KHL)

We could see Colorado moving this pick at the draft for some immediate help after their disappointing playoff performance. However, if they keep this selection, a guy like Chernyshov could make a ton of sense. He can attack with speed and power, playing a North/South game that fits their system.

#25. Ottawa Senators (via Boston Bruins) - Liam Greentree – RW - Windsor (OHL)

Back-to-back OHL players for Ottawa in our mock, this time the team selects Windsor winger Greentree, who has the potential to be a Jason Robertson kind of player in the future. He is creative and skilled but needs to improve his skating. We believe improving the team’s skill and finishing ability on the wing should be a focus.

#26. Montreal Canadiens (via Winnipeg Jets) - Sam O’Reilly – RW - London (OHL)

With a strong OHL playoffs and Memorial Cup performance, O’Reilly has surged up draft rankings to close out the year. The physical, two-way center has more offensive upside than he has shown thus far playing in a secondary scoring role. Worst case scenario could see him developing into a Scott Laughton type, which would still be terrific value at this point of the first.

#27. Carolina Hurricanes - Alfons Freij – D - Vaxjo Lakers (Swe J20)

The Hurricanes always seem to love the same kind of players that the amateur scouting community love. Freij is one of those amateur scouting darlings this year that we (as a community) seem to love more than the NHL community (as a whole). The skating ability and skill are evident. He was a standout at nearly every international event for Sweden and projects as a skilled top four defende

#28. Calgary Flames (via Vancouver Canucks) - Cole Beaudoin – C - Barrie (OHL)

After drafting Iginla early, the Flames opt for a different kind of forward late in the first. Beaudoin projects as the kind of guy you win in the playoffs with. He brings versatility. He brings leadership. He brings consistency. He is an intelligent playmaker and can excel as a middle six complementary piece. Just seems very likely that at least one NHL team likes his intangibles enough to draft him in the first.

#29. Dallas Stars - Emil Hemming – RW - TPS (Fin-Liiga)

The Stars haven’t drafted a player out of Finland since Miro Heiskanen in 2017, but we’d say that has worked out pretty well. At this point, Hemming fills a need and represents the best player available. He brings tenaciousness and he is one of the draft’s best goal scorers from the wing.

#30. New York Rangers - Charlie Elick - D - Brandon (WHL)

Elick has a similar profile to Braden Schneider when the Rangers drafted him and that worked out pretty well. The size, skating, and physicality combination make Elick a potential shutdown defender for a decade. His decision making needs to improve, but New York has actually improved this component in several of their defensive prospects.

#31. Anaheim Ducks (via Edmonton Oilers) - Julius Miettinen – C - Everett (WHL)

Miettinen improved by leaps and bounds over the course of the year and represents a big body with skill. His skating took a big leap from the beginning of the year to the end, and it has really improved his projection as a top six forward. Anaheim really seems to favor forwards with a well-rounded profile and that’s Miettinen.

#32. Philadelphia Flyers (via Florida Panthers) - Ben Danford – D - Oshawa (OHL)

This pick might surprise some people, but Danford is a player who rocketed up rankings in the second half as part of an Oshawa team that went to the OHL finals. He’s one of the better defensive players in the draft; a shot blocking expert who has terrific defensive instincts. He’s also a strong skater who has shown flashes of more offensively. Shades of Oliver Bonk here and that worked out really well so far.

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#33. San Jose Sharks - Dean Letourneau – C - St. Andrew's (CHS-Ontario)

There’s definitely a chance that Letourneau goes in the first, but we feel that teams may be more comfortable using a second on a prep player given that many of those chosen in the first have not developed well. The Sharks can take a chance on Letourneau, given the team’s window is a ways away. The big man oozes upside because of his athleticism.

#34. Chicago Blackhawks - Henry Mews – D - Ottawa (OHL)

With the Hawks focusing so much on strong skating ability, Mews makes sense here. He’s a terrific four-way mover who possesses excellent upside as an offensive defender. He’s a creative rush attacker and his defense did improve over the course of the season.

#35. Anaheim Ducks - Terik Parascak – RW - Prince George (WHL)

A highly intelligent playmaker, Parascak makes up for only average skating by being a step ahead of others mentally. He’s skilled. He’s tenacious. He projects as a quality complementary piece in the top six and he would fit in perfectly with what Anaheim already has in the system.

#36. Philadelphia Flyers (via Columbus Blue Jackets) - Sacha Boisvert – C - Muskegon (USHL)

Why not double down on a top goal scorer? After drafting the draft’s best in Cole Eiserman, the Flyers now take one of the other best options in power center Sasha Boivert. His skating needs to continue to improve, but he can really fire it.

#37. Winnipeg Jets (via Montreal Canadiens) - Cole Hutson – D - U. S. NTDP U18

Wouldn’t it be fitting if the Jets used the Montreal pick to select Lane’s brother Cole? Cole battled some injuries this year, but he closed out the year on a high note by returning for the U18’s. He can control the tempo with his handling ability and mobility. His defensive game is also probably more advanced compared to Lane’s at the same age.

#38. Utah Hockey Club - Teddy Stiga – C - U. S. NTDP U18

Back-to-back NTDP members are chosen here as Stiga ends up being Utah’s pick. He is a terrific complementary piece who was one of the NTDP’s most improved players this year. He plays at a feverish pace, and he is skilled and intelligent enough to play with high end, creative playmakers. Could be the perfect future linemate for Logan Cooley.

#39. Ottawa Senators - Linus Eriksson – C - Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Erikson is a strong skating, two-way center with a strong chance of developing into an excellent and versatile middle six piece. He was solid for Sweden internationally this year and adds great depth to Ottawa’s center position down the line.

#40. Seattle Kraken - Will Skahan – D - U. S. NTDP U18

One of the draft’s most physical defenders, Skahan is big, reasonably mobile, and projects as a top four shutdown blueliner. Seattle has never really drafted a player like Skahan, and we would argue that in order for them to take that next step, they’ll need players like him in the Pacific.

#41. Calgary Flames - Dominik Badinka – D - Malmo (SHL)

Strong, two-way defender who played a ton at the SHL level. His true offensive upside was hidden by playing sheltered minutes against men. The Flames opt for defense here and have had some luck taking Swedish based defenders in recent years (Badinka is Czech but played out of Sweden).

#42. San Jose Sharks (via New Jersey Devils) - Andrew Basha – LW - Medicine Hat (WHL)

The Sharks opt for a bit of a safer selection at this spot after really rolling the dice with the previous two picks. Basha is an excellent complementary piece who projects as someone who can elevate the play of a creative and skilled pivot. He could be the perfect linemate for the likes of Celebrini, Smith, or Eklund because he is skilled and does the dirty work to open up ice.

#43. Buffalo Sabres - Maxim Masse – RW - Chicoutimi (QMJHL)

Buffalo makes Masse the first QMJHL player off the board. He’s one of the better pure goal scorers in the draft and he plays a mature, pro style game that sees him get to the middle of the ice. The skating needs to keep improving, but this is a player who could fit in well with some of the others in Buffalo’s system.

#44. Pittsburgh Penguins (via Philadelphia Flyers) - Lucas Pettersson – C - MoDo Hockey (Swe J20)

With their first pick in the draft, the Penguins opt for Swedish center Lucas Pettersson. He’s a strong skating, two-way pivot who projects as a solid middle six piece who can play in a variety of different situations. Building up prospect depth needs to be a focus of Kyle Dubas, after the system was bled dry for the last half a decade.

#45. Minnesota Wild - Brodie Ziemer – RW - U. S. NTDP U18

A Minnesota native heading to the University of Minnesota, the Wild get the captain of this year’s NTDP. He projects as a terrific complementary piece in the top nine who can help bring out the best in more skilled players. He plays a heavier game, which fits in with the theme that Minnesota seems to be focusing on at the draft in recent years.

#46. Pittsburgh Penguins - Aron Kiviharju – D - HIFK (Fin-Liiga)

If there is a team that is going to take a chance on Kiviharju bringing everything together, the Penguins make a ton of sense. With a couple of seconds, they should be focusing on bringing in high upside players and Kiviharju is just that. Is there concern that he has plateaued? Absolutely. However, there’s also a chance that injuries this year really prevented him from being at his best.

#47. Detroit Red Wings - Leon Muggli – D - Zug (Sui-NL)

The Red Wings opt for Leon Muggli, a Swiss defender who really emerged as a top-notch NHL prospect this year. He showed well playing against men in the NL. He’s intelligent and mobile and should have a solid floor as an NHL rearguard in some capacity.

#48. St. Louis Blues - Matvei Shuravin – C - Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)

Long and lean Russian defender with intriguing two-way upside. He was a player who was hard to get a read on this year with his limited minutes in the KHL, however he has an intriguing combination of size and mobility. It’s possible that he reminds the Blues of drafting Colton Parayko back in the day.

#49. Utah Hockey Club (via Washington Capitals) - Yegor Surin – C - Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)

Utah and their scouts have not been shy about selecting Russian players in recent drafts. Surin is better than the 49th player selected. He is a competitive, but skilled pivot who could end up developing into a versatile player for Utah down the line. Maybe the perfect linemate for fellow Russian Daniil But?

#50. Chicago Blackhawks (via New York Islanders) - John Mustard – C - Waterloo (USHL)

One of the best names in the draft, but also one of the best skaters. Mustard had a breakout campaign in the USHL this year. He’s an explosive player and a talented goal scorer. However, he is also an intense competitor, something that should make Mustard an NHL player in some capacity if the offensive game doesn’t translate.

#51. Philadelphia Flyers (Compensation Pick for Jay O’Brien) - Ryder Ritchie – RW - Prince Albert (WHL)

Ranked as a first rounder by us, there is thought that we are higher on him than NHL scouts after a bit of a disappointing second half mired by injuries. Ritchie is a competitive winger who plays bigger than his size (excuse the cliche). He has solid upside as a complementary piece on a scoring line. This is a nice swing for Philadelphia with their compensation pick.

#52. Washington Capitals (via Vegas Golden Knights) - Marek Vanacker – LW - Brantford (OHL)

The Capitals opt for speedy Hamilton winger Marek Vanacker, the last of our first round graded players. He was extremely consistent all year long and has intriguing offensive upside because of the pace he can play at. Washington would be very familiar with him thanks to their scouting of Patrick Thomas.

#53. Nashville Predators (via Tampa Bay Lightning) - Heikki Ruohonen – C - Kiekko-Espoo (Fin-U20)

The Preds have long loved Finnish players, with a strong presence in that market. Ruohonen was one of the biggest risers in the second half of the year; he was excellent at the U18’s for the Finns. He is a competitive, two-way, power center eventually heading to Harvard.

#54. New York Islanders (via Los Angeles Kings) - Adam Kleber – D - Lincoln (USHL)

Kleber is a massive defender whose game really improved over the second half of the year. His mobility, in particular, really took a positive step forward. The USHL rearguard projects as a physical stay at home type, but he does flash some intriguing offensive tools too.

#55. Nashville Predators - Mikhail Yegorov – G - Omaha (USHL)

There has been a ton of talk about Nashville moving on from Juuse Saros, handing over the keys to Askarov. However, there isn’t much of a back-up plan behind Askarov if he doesn't pan out. Taking a goalie makes sense for the Preds in round two and Yegorov is an excellent athlete who their goaltending development coaches can really work with.

#56. St. Louis Blues (via Toronto Maple Leafs) - Luke Misa – C - Mississauga (OHL)

Misa is a speedy, two-way forward who projects as a solid middle six option for St. Louis down the line. He had a solid year for Mississauga in the OHL and is the type of player who could move quickly through the system as a later birthday.

#57. Montreal Canadiens (via Colorado Avalanche) - Tory Pitner - Youngstown (USHL)

Montreal has done well by selecting heady defenders in recent years and Pitner is definitely that. He’s one of the draft's most intelligent blueliners, especially in the defensive end. He competes hard and projects as a solid two-way, second pairing type.

#58. Anaheim Ducks (via Boston Bruins) - Tarin Smith – D - Everett (WHL)

A team with an already loaded defensive talent pool can afford to take chances on high upside defenders like Smith. He’s very raw, but his physical tools are excellent. He skates well. He can create offense. How it all comes together remains to be seen, but Anaheim can afford to be patient.

#59. Nashville Predators (via Winnipeg Jets) - Adam Jecho – C - Edmonton (WHL)

An enigma to the highest degree, Jecho is one of the draft’s ultimate boom or bust prospects. At times, he dominates in the offensive end with his size and skill. Other times, he looks lumbering, lazy, and disengaged. Which Jecho will emerge as the real one? Nashville has always loved wingers like this with high end physical tools.

#60. Carolina Hurricanes - Nikita Artamonov – LW - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)

This just seems like an amazing fit. The Canes have loved players like Artamanov. High end processor. Not the quickest or most physical, but efficient. They’ve also been one of the most aggressive NHL franchises in drafting Russian talent recently.

#61. New York Islanders (via Vancouver Canucks) - AJ Spellacy – RW - Windsor (OHL)

Spellacy was outstanding in the second half of the OHL season after he fully recovered from a knee injury. He has great length and speed and projects as a high end third line player who can be an elite penalty killer and defensive forward. The last Windsor forward NYI took worked out well.

#62. Calgary Flames (via Dallas Stars) - Raoul Boilard – C - Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)

What’s the finished product going to look like with Boilard? This is completely unknown due to some consistency issues. However, the Flames need to improve their center depth in the organization and Boilard is a rangy pivot who could end up being a solid middle six piece.

#63. Seattle Kraken (via New York Rangers) - Jesse Pulkkinen – D - JYP (Fin-Liiga)

The first re-entry to go in this mock draft, Seattle has not shied away from selecting players outside of their first year of eligibility. Pulkkinen is a big offensive defender who plays an aggressive style. He needs major refinement, but the tools are there.

#64. Edmonton Oilers - Pavel Moysevich – G - SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)

Have to think the Oilers go with a goalie here if there is one on the board that they really like. Moysevich is a re-entry who was fantastic in the KHL this past season. He is one of the draft’s best athletes and he could move quickly through the system.

#65. Utah Hockey Club (via Florida Panthers) - Jack Pridham – RW - West Kelowna (BCHL)

There is a connection between Utah (previously Arizona) and the St. Andrew’s College program of late. Pridham is a graduate of that program who had a solid year in the BCHL. He is a big winger with great skating ability. The upside is a bit of a mystery, but the tools are legitimate.

2024 NHL DRAFT: Top “Tier 2” Players Available with Video – Part Two – Forwards

Brock Otten — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:00:59 +0000

_{William Zellers of Shattuck-St. Mary's School (Shattuck-St. Mary's School)}

McKeen's Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, provides a close examination of all the top "Tier 2" players available for the draft this year (USHS, BCHL, CJHL, etc). The second in the series highlights the forwards.

Logan Sawyer - Center/Wing - Brooks Bandits (BCHL/AJHL)

6’1, 175lbs

Grades: Skating: 52.5, Shot: 55, Skills: 55, Smarts: 52.5, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 52.375

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/logan_sawyer_-_3rd_period_5_47_-_6_0.mp4

Notes: I wrote about Sawyer earlier this year when he won gold with Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge. At that event, Sawyer started slow but finished strong; he was instrumental in Canada West’s strong medal round play. Born in Ontario, Sawyer is a former minor hockey teammate of London Knight forward and fellow 2024 draft-eligible player Sam O’Reilly. He has flip-flopped between center and the wing this year, but I believe his skill set is best suited for the wing long term. Sawyer’s best attributes would be his shot and overall scoring ability. A multi-faceted scorer, Sawyer is deadly with the one-timer, especially on the powerplay, but he also possesses a quick and powerful snapshot that beats goaltenders clean from a distance. Sawyer also has good hands, consistently showing an ability to catch pucks cleanly or beat defenders one-on-one. Once he builds a head of steam, he can be tough to stop one-on-one as his edgework is a strength, showcasing an ability to alter direction without losing speed, in addition to maintaining puck control through said quick cuts. Generally a high-volume shooter, Sawyer has flashed an ability to utilize the threat of his shot to help set up scoring chances for his linemates. Layering in that deception will be key to further development as a playmaker. Sawyer will also need to improve his explosiveness and work to length his stride to help him generate/maintain power. Physically, there is a clear need to build strength. He can be kept to the perimeter and easily separated from the puck. Rather than chip and chase, or look to work the cycle, Sawyer can be prone to trying to force plays with one-on-one move attempts that lead to turnovers. Defensively, he also needs work as he can be caught puck watching and said lack of strength limits his overall effectiveness. A Providence commit, Sawyer does have the potential to be a middle six-goal scorer. However, he’s very much a long-term project.

Jack Pridham - Wing - West Kelowna Warriors (BCHL)

6’2, 175lbs

Grades: Skating: 57.5, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 52.875

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jack_pridham_-_2nd_period_26_53_-_27_5.mp4

Notes: Another Ontario-born and raised player who travelled out West, Pridham is a product of the St. Andrew’s College system. A late-born 2005, Pridham outscored Arizona draft pick Jonathan Castagna last year. While consistency has been a bit of an issue with West Kelowna, Pridham has flashed pro potential and has generally intrigued scouts this year. It all starts with his skating ability. Pridham is explosive and quick, always looking to attack North/South and drive the net. He routinely beats defenders to the outside and is able to cut back into generating scoring chances in tight. As he gets in tight, he will lose control, but as he gains strength, look for him to be more consistently successful in these net drives, maintaining possession through contact. More of a playmaker than a shooter, Pridham uses his speed to draw defenders to him and shows good vision by finding open teammates in the slot, occasionally teammate and fellow 2024 eligible forward Callum Hughes (who will attend Boston University with him). The two have terrific chemistry. I also really like Pridham’s work rate. He’s not an overtly physical player, but he works hard on the forecheck to help force turnovers and consistently comes away from the puck along the wall and has an attacking mindset. Defensively, his positioning is sound and he closes quickly to apply pressure on the point. Overall, this is a highly athletic winger with size whose overall skill set is still developing. What’s the end game; what’s the upside? I think that’s still a bit of a mystery. How Pridham is able to weaponize his speed at the next level remains to be seen. However, Boston University is a great program for him to attend and despite lower production, I’d prefer him to the more hyped Logan Sawyer as a draft prospect.

Callum Hughes - Wing/Center - West Kelowna Warriors (BCHL)

6’1, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 50.75

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/callum_hughes_-_1st_period_23_53_-_24_5.mp4

Notes: A teammate and frequent linemate of fellow 2024 eligible forward Jack Pridham, Hughes is cut from a similar cloth. He’s a high-energy player whose offensive production comes from his ability to outwork defenders in the slot, beat defenders wide with speed, and force turnovers/create scoring chances off of turnovers from the forecheck. Hughes started the year as a depth player for the U.S. at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, but he wasn’t incredibly noticeable. In the BCHL, he’s played fairly well and this has him ranked as a potential draft selection. Hughes’ future as a pro will likely be tied to his ability to develop as a penalty killer, two-way presence, and general agitator. He has good top-end speed, but his explosiveness and overall agility will need work for the type of role he’ll likely play at the NCAA level with Boston University. In a lot of ways, Hughes is a “poor man’s” Pridham. They play similar kinds of North/South games, but Hughes is just a little less dynamic. As such, he understands how to be that complementary piece who can get to the net and who can work to secure retrievals. As an ‘06, I’d probably want to see Hughes play at a higher level (either the USHL or the NCAA) before using a draft pick on him. This might give a better indication of his offensive upside and likelihood of being a successful role player.

JJ Monteiro - Wing - Salmon Arms Silverbacks (BCHL)

6’0, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 51.75

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/jj_monteiro_-_1st_period_11_36_-_11_49.mp4

Notes: A natural center who has played the wing this year for Salmon Arms, Monteiro had a great start to the year playing a checking line role for the U.S. at the Hlinka/Gretzky. He was largely one of the team’s most consistently effective players and there were high hopes for him heading into this BCHL season. The production doesn’t jump off the page at you, but it’s important to note that Salmon Arms is a relatively low-scoring team. Monteiro is a classic or traditional “grinder,” and I mean that as a form of endearment. He’s a consistently effective presence away from the puck who competes for touches and has great instincts in all three zones. He gets his stick in passing lanes, applies pressure physically, and drives the net to create space. One would probably be surprised that he doesn’t see PK time for Salmon Arms, but that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t project as a solid two-way, PK guy down the line. The key for Monteiro will be improving his skating profile. He shows good speed in bursts but can struggle to move East/West while maintaining speed. Additionally, he seems to have trouble maintaining his stride, losing speed the longer he carries. To be a defensively oriented center (should he move back to his natural position) at the next level, adding and sustaining speed will be key. The offensive upside is also not likely high. Monteiro is at his best when he keeps things simple North/South, even if he does flash some nice one-on-one moves cutting into the slot. I believe that scouts will be impressed with how he’s been able to elevate his game in big situations this year, like the Hlinka/Gretzky or the BCHL Top Prospect’s game. The Providence College commit is definitely a potential mid-late round pick who could be a solid depth piece for an NHL franchise down the line.

Max Heise - Wing/Center - Penticton Vees (BCHL)

6’2, 161lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 45, Skills: 45, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 51

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/max_heise_-_3rd_period_2_6_-_2_25.mp4

Notes: Not the type of guy you’d bother scouting just by looking at the stat line. Very seldom do draft-eligible forwards averaging under 0.50 points per game get a sniff from NHL scouts. But it’s easy to see why NHL Central Scouting has him ranked. He’s a versatile player for the Vees; a Swiss army knife who can excel in any situation and who has played both center and wing this year. Heise excels playing a powerful North/South game. He’s not the most efficient and cleanest skater, but he generates power with longer strides that allow him to build to a solid top speed. He uses that speed to drive wide, consistently beating opposing defenders to the net or to the slot. He also is effective on the forecheck and the backcheck; overall, he is a very active player in puck pursuit. He seems to have great attention to detail on the ice, winning battles along the wall to keep plays alive or getting his stick in passing lanes to be a disruptive force. There’s upside for him to develop into a premier defensive forward as he adds strength and fills out his frame. He could easily be one of those four-year guys at Michigan State who, maybe doesn’t get drafted now, but ends up getting signed down the line because his game and skill set are tailored to a depth role at the pro level. Unfortunately, Heise’s not the most creative or skilled, nor is he a terrific finisher. A lot of his net drives result in great scoring chances that he’s unable to finish on. A lot of his shots get blocked or fired wide as he tries to cut into the slot to rip a wrist shot in transition. But, as mentioned, the physical tools are definitely alluring and it’s important to note that his production is also down because of the depth of Penticton.

Ryan Zaremba - Wing - Sherwood Park Crusaders (BCHL/AJHL)

5’9, 163lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 45, Skills: 55, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 51.5

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ryan_zaremba_-_1st_period_3_11_-_3_33.mp4

Notes: Zaremba is an undersized, but dynamic playmaking winger who really caught my eye with his strong play for gold medallists Canada West at the WJAC. Bottom line, he’s a fun player to watch. I have little doubt that, at some point, after he bulks up, he will be a top point producer for UMD at the NCAA level. His skating is a strength, maybe not so much in terms of explosiveness or top speed alone, but because of his agility and edgework as it works in combination with his speed. He picks up speed while changing direction and can stop/start on a dime, making him a very tough player to stop in transition. The hands are also solid as he can make plays at top speed, maintaining possession through his sharp cuts, and playing through defender's legs and sticks. He routinely dipsy doodles around the offensive zone, keeping possession for prolonged periods as he looks for passing options. However, there are a few problems limiting his production and impact. For one, he’s just not strong enough currently to find success in the middle consistently. He gets kept to the perimeter a lot and he’s a clear pass-first player whose shot does not give him dual-threat capabilities. He brings energy and he has a great motor; the effort is there. It’s more that he sticks to the perimeter often out of necessity. Additionally, since returning from the WJAC, he’s been incredibly snake-bitten. I know the mess of the AJHL teams merging with the BCHL didn’t help things or his development, but he has only three points in his last eleven games. Undersized tier 2 wingers who don’t hit the scoresheet don’t get drafted; it’s a harsh reality. The bottom line is that I totally do not anticipate Zaremba being selected, but I also wanted to note that I really like the long-term upside of the player once he fills out as part of an NCAA program.

Nathan Free - Wing - Brooks Bandits (BCHL/AJHL)

5’9, 152lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 55, Skills: 57.5, Smarts: 45, Physicality/Compete: 40

OFP: 51.25

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Notes: From one underside winger to another, the only difference is that, unlike Zaremba, Free has been trending up since the World Junior A Challenge. In fact, since Brooks joined the BCHL, Free has been averaging over two points per game. The Penn State commit is truly a dynamic offensive player. He plays a high-risk, high-reward kind of game from the wing. Offensive zone turnovers are plentiful due to his confidence with the puck and willingness to take on opposing defenders one-on-one. However, he routinely makes them miss and creates defensive breakdowns because of how he can keep the puck on a string. Free is a pretty good overall offensive player too. He shoots the puck well and has a very quick release. He also is a strong linear skater who builds to a solid top speed which he uses to his advantage in transition. He’s not as dynamic East/West as Zaremba (a natural comparison), but skating is not a weakness and is bound to only improve as he builds strength. The concerns I have with Free are related to how he sees the ice. As mentioned, offensive zone turnovers are commonplace as he tries to play through defenders in traffic. You’d love it if he had better vision to take greater advantage of his creativity. Additionally, he’s far from a strong two-way presence or physical player. Of course, both of these attributes could improve and if they do, Free is a player with significant offensive upside. You look at the freshman year that former Brooks forward Aiden Fink is having and have to wonder if Free is capable of the same. However, I liked Fink’s playmaking ability and off-puck play better last year. Even with some warts, Free is definitely a draft candidate, perhaps more than Zaremba who I’ve graded higher.

Matthew Van Blaricom - Wing - Humboldt Broncos (SJHL)

5’11, 175lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 52.5, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 60

OFP: 53

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Notes: One of my favourite mid-round targets available this year. I fell in love with his game at the World Junior A Challenge and I’ve found myself checking in on him to watch Humboldt action since. Van Blaricom is a Tazmanian devil. His compete level is among the best in this draft class. He’s a consistent physical presence…and his hits hurt. This is not an easy player to match up against. But, Van Claricom is solid away from the puck in general. He always keeps his feet moving and is very effective and active in puck pursuit. He forces turnovers with great stick placement. He times cuts well to become a passing option. He crashes the crease and is great in the cycle. He’s the perfect complementary player at higher levels for high-skill guys; think Michael Bunting. Another reason for that is his shot. He has goal-scoring potential thanks to a heavy wrist shot and strong scoring instincts. From a skill perspective, Van Blaricom does show individual skill and creativity at the SJHL level. He loves using the inside/out move and catches defenders flat-footed pretty consistently. As he moves up the ladder, he’s probably not going to be someone counted upon to carry or make those skilled plays. Really the one thing missing from his game is a dynamic stride. He can build speed, but he’s not very explosive. He’s also not the most graceful on his edges and can slip into a wider stride that limits his mobility. Headed to Michigan Tech, either next year or after a year in the USHL, Van Blaricom has a chance to develop into a really solid pro player…and a potential fan favourite. He’s a guy that I really love and would start advocating for after round three.

Jonathan Morello - Center - St. Michael’s Buzzers (OJHL)

6’3, 192lbs

Grades: Skating: 60, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 52.5, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 52.625

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Notes: As mentioned when assessing teammate David Green, I’ve had the opportunity to see Morello live a few times this year and he’s a really impressive player at the OJHL level because of the advantage his speed/size advantage gives him. One time in Burlington he had a breakaway ten seconds into the game. For my money, he’s one of the best skaters in this draft class and that’s impressive for a 6’3 forward. He gets to full speed in only a few strides and he doesn’t lose speed through directional changes. Many OJHL defenders just can’t keep up with Morello stride for stride, especially when he builds a head of steam through the neutral zone. The rest of Morello’s game is best described as raw. His shot, puck skill, two-way effectiveness, and physicality all show the potential to be better in the long run, but right now probably best grade out around average. He does a lot of damage near the crease, which is great and shows a solid compete level to fight for positioning and willingness to play through traffic. His defensive game is inconsistent from shift to shift, which could be conditioning-related. At times, he does use his speed to be effective on the backcheck, but his placement/positioning and physical engagement can waver in this regard. I wish that he was just a little more physical given his quickness and length. That added element would really elevate him in my eyes. Without question, Morello is a long-term project. He’s headed to Clarkson but not until 2025/26, as he’s going to play a year in the USHL first. How his game develops will depend on Morello’s mindset and the development team surrounding him. The physical tools are just really alluring and give Morello a chance to develop into a quality PK, bottom six option. I’m not necessarily convinced he sticks at center long term, but again, Morello is intriguing due to the wide variety of outcomes for his development.

Dean Letourneau - Center - St. Andrew’s College (CAHS)

6’7, 210lbs

Grades: Skating: 52.5, Shot: 55, Skills: 57.5, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 53.875

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Notes: The crown jewel of the Tier 2 market (no offense meant to the Shattuck boys) this year, Letourneau is a player with massive (pun intended) potential due to his size and skill combination. The million-dollar question is, how much of his success is due in part to him dominating physically against inferior AAA/Prep competition? I do believe the answer to that is…some of it. Letourneau can play through defenders at this level in a way that he wouldn’t be doing at the OHL level…even with his massive size advantage. However, much of his success can also be attributed to his high skill level. It’s rare to see 6’7 centers with the soft hands that Letourneau possesses. He’s so difficult to separate from the puck because of his size and reach, but also because of his ability to control the puck through traffic. I also believe that his skating ability has come a long way already compared to last year. There’s certainly still room for him to improve his explosiveness, in addition to his balance/edgework, but he can now build to a pretty solid top speed and has worked to make his stride more economical. At 6’7, he doesn’t need to be the world’s best skater because those long strides can simply cover more ground at a greater rate. The shot and compete level could probably both be graded down to a 50 right now, but this is taking into account the potential that both have to be above average (or even well above average) qualities. His shot is heavy, but the release will need to improve. Just basic physics for a bigger player. But as he works to improve his one-timer (getting pucks off his stick cleaner, elevating shots), it could be a huge weapon for him…even if he’s likely to be utilized more as a net-front presence as a collegiate player and pro. The compete level is just inconsistent. But as he fills out and improves his conditioning, look for the physical component to be a huge part of his game. How you view his true upside is likely tied to your opinion of his vision and play reading. And quite frankly, this is the area that is the toughest to read right now given the competition he is facing. All eyes will be on him at the end of the year as he likely finishes out the season in the USHL and then at the U18s for Canada. That should give us a better indication as the physical advantage becomes more neutral.

Jack Good - Wing - St. Andrew’s College (CAHS)

5’9, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 51

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Notes: Dean Letourneau’s running mate with St. Andrew’s, Good has never let his size hurt him as he’s moved up the hockey ladder. The main reason for that is the fact that Good is a high-level processor of the game. It’s why he has been the perfect complement to Letourneau. He finds soft spots in coverage, times cuts well, and has outstanding vision and poise with the puck. He’s obviously not the biggest or strongest, but he consistently finds his way to the net; most of his goals are scored within a few feet of the crease. Good also has a good motor. It’s cliche, but he’s one of those guys who plays larger than his size. He is an effective forechecker and he’s very effective in the neutral zone with an active stick to disrupt opposing entries. On the counterattack, Good is more calculated in his approach. You’re more likely to see him slow the game down, rather than speed it up. That’s going to bring to light whether his lack of pace will affect his offensive production at the higher levels. For a smaller player, you’d certainly like him to be a more dynamic skater. He’s not a poor skater by any means, but his quickness, speed, and agility would all grade out to average. Additionally, as mentioned, Good is someone who excels playing through traffic at the prep level, but given that’s where he is most effective, will he continue to be effective in those situations against bigger and stronger defenders? The harsh reality is that NHL teams tend to (and rightfully so because of limited success rates) ignore smaller wingers with question marks over pace and projection. A Merrimack commit, Good is probably going to need to work his way into the good graces of scouts by producing at the NCAA level before he gets a sniff.

Connor Arsenault - Center - St. Andrew’s College (CAHS)

6’2, 210lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 50, Skills: 45, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 60

OFP: 51.5

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Notes: The captain of St. Andrew’s College, Arsenault came into the season with a decent amount of hype, but a slow start to the year offensively really quelled that. However, he’s picked up his play in a big way in the last few months and is playing his best hockey at the current moment. He’s the team’s second-line center behind Letourneau and is a classic power center who excels at both ends of the ice. The first thing you notice is his physicality. Arsenault is a big hitter; he’s an absolute terror on the forecheck who gives opposing defenders nightmares. However, this physical approach carries over into all three zones. He’s just tough to play against and has a ton of potential as a shutdown center. This is especially true because he’s already a beast at the dot too; Arsenault rarely loses a key draw. From an offensive perspective, the only component of his game that has potential is his shot. Continued improvement in his release and accuracy, in addition to some added confidence could help him to become a quality goal scorer. As is, he’s best when he keeps things simple…and he does that most of the time. You’re most likely to find him net-front in the offensive zone when he’s not working the cycle or applying pressure in pursuit. He understands that his size and strength advantage are best utilized there as Arsenault already has a clear identity on the ice. If Arsenault was a better skater, I think we’d be talking about him as a potential top-100 pick because of how NHL teams could project him as an elite third-line center. But that will be the focal point of his development at Cornell. I think the mechanics are generally fine, so the 50 grade implies that I think he can get to league average with a greater focus on conditioning and power skating. Cornell is actually an outstanding choice for Arsenault based on his skill set and the type of system the Big Red uses. Former teammate Jonathan Castagna has had an outstanding freshman season for Cornell and his skill set was similar. I don’t see Arsenault being left off of NHL Central Scouting’s final list.

Ben Merrill - Center - St. Sebastian’s School (USHS-Prep)

6’4, 195lbs

Grades: Skating: 45, Shot: 50, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 50.25

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Notes: Getting good looks on video of some prep school players is very difficult, even in today’s day and age, and Merrill was one of those players. So maybe, my grading is based off of some weaker performances by him, rather than stronger ones with video not available. Regardless, I expected more from a player nearly ranked inside of NHL Central Scouting’s top 100 for NA. Look, I see the allure. Big center with obvious skill and playmaking ability who is far from a finished product. That said, we’re also looking at a late-born 2005 who is far from dominating at the Prep school level. I don’t like to put a lot of stock in limited USHL performances from prep school or high school kids; they’re put in a very difficult spot. But in two games with the Chicago Steel, it was plainly obvious that Merrill’s skating is not up to par for that level currently. He really struggled to get through the neutral zone and his lack of balance and power on his edges limited his elusiveness from USHL defenders. At the prep level, his ability to power through in a straight line is good enough, especially given his size/reach advantage. But at the higher levels, he’ll need to add power to his stride and improve his overall mobility. With that would come an improved ability to be a difference-maker away from the puck. The effort does appear to be there and he uses his reach to be an effective forechecker, but he’s often just that little bit slow to apply true pressure. As mentioned, the playmaking ability, passing skill, and vision do stand out as solid. Merrill is unquestionably a very long-term project. He’s going to play in Penticton next year (BCHL) and then is attending Harvard after that. If he hits his best-case scenario and really fills out physically and athletically, we’re looking at an NHL player five to six years down the line. If I’m an NHL team, I’d want to see him with Penticton next year first.

Gio DiGiulian - Wing/Center - Kent School (USHS-Prep)

6’1, 161lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 52.5, Skills: 52.5, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 51.5

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Notes: Good-sized winger with a strong skating base and a goal scorer’s touch. DiGiulian is a Cornell commit and he’s played both wing and center this year, splitting time between Kent School and the Yale Jr. Bulldogs. Moving forward he’s likely a winger and he does seem most comfortable playing on the right side. DiGiulian is at his best on the counterattack where he can use his speed to drive wide and beat defenders one on one. He has a heavy wrist and snapshot and profiles best as a North/South scoring winger. At the current moment, he does appear to be more offensively focused; his play away from the puck would not be considered a strength. That said, he does a good job of getting to the net at the prep level. Playing at Cornell in their program will be good for the development of his off-puck play and physicality. From a skill perspective, as mentioned, Digiulian appears best when he keeps things simple in that North/South attacking style. As he adds strength, he should be able to take greater advantage of his speed by driving the middle and playing through contact. He can be kept to the perimeter or separated from the puck, and when operating at full speed, he can lose possession. It’s that classic case of the hands needing to catch up to the feet. I could easily see NHL teams liking Digiulian’s potential as he fills out his frame and learns how to best leverage his speed to create scoring chances.

Jack Sadowski - Center/Wing - Kimball Union Academy (USHS-Prep)

6’0, 180lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 52.5, Skills: 52.5, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 40

OFP: 50.5

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Notes: One of the leading scorers in U.S. prep hockey this year, Sadowski is a University of New Hampshire commit. His game revolves around his excellent hockey sense and playmaking ability. Sadowski certainly doesn’t wow you with his physical tools. He’s an average skater. He’s not an intimidating physical presence. His play in the defensive zone leaves a lot to be desired. However, he impresses as an offensive catalyst who can slow the game down, operating at a higher level intellectually than his peers. His edgework and agility are his best traits as a skater and help him maintain possession by eluding physical pressure from defenders as he cuts and pivots to escape the opposition. It’s not uncommon to see him circle back to the point to collect pucks, operating as a point guard in the NBA would do. His shot is also a solid weapon for him and shows plus upside as he improves his strength and ability to work inside. As an NHL draft prospect, I’m not sure I see it. Ranked late by NHL Central Scouting on their midseason list, Sadowski currently lacks that “it” factor that would see him continue to dominate offensively as he moves up the ladder. There’s a need to improve his explosiveness and linear quickness to improve his pace. His game also lacks multi-dimensional layers to it. As mentioned, there’s a need for him to improve his off-puck play; it’s not uncommon to see him cheating the defensive zone or coasting back to the defensive end. Sadowski has already committed to playing in the BCHL next year with West Kelowna before heading to UNH. I’d probably want to see how his game looks at that level, or even further up the ladder (NCAA) before utilizing a draft selection on him.

Javon Moore - Wing - Minnetonka High (USHS-MN)

6’3, 180lbs

Grades: Skating: 57.5, Shot: 50, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 53.625

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Notes: Let’s be frank, the real test for Moore will be at the end of his high school season when he inevitably joins Sioux Falls (USHL) again, just as he did last year. Moore is such an impressive athlete. As a late born in 2005, and with his size/power, he can do pretty much as he wishes at the high school level. This is especially true considering the talent surrounding him on a dominant Minnetonka High team. Give Moore an inch and he takes a mile. He has such an impressive attacking mindset. He identifies quickly when defenders don’t have him gapped up and in those scenarios, he explodes into openings to create chances, often looking to get the puck to the middle or the net. His first step quickness is very impressive. Not only is he dangerous in transition, but he also explodes out of the cycle to make plays coming off the wall. Moore gallops to top speed in an instant, but his hands already work in sync with his legs, impressive for a young athlete. For that reason, high school defenders have a tough time boxing him in. In watching Moore, I was expecting his play in the defensive end to be pretty poor, but he’s actually more engaged than many high school top scorers. He uses his speed well to close in on blueliners at the point and he has a very active stick that helps him be disruptive as opposing players try to get into the middle. There’s certainly more room for him to grow as a physical player; in fact, it will likely be a necessity for him as he climbs the ladder. But, I’d expect him to blossom in this regard as he becomes accustomed to being a support player. I’d also heard and read some negative things about his vision and passing touch, but I think that’s better than expected for a player of his ilk too. He can seemingly drive the net at will, but he picks his spots well and has terrific chemistry with Hagen Burrows as the two consistently find each other in the offensive zone. Moore will need to learn to slow the game down a bit as he moves forward. When plays do die on his stick it’s because he loses control from trying to push forward before he’s secured possession or before his teammates have caught up to him. I also think that there is room for improvement in his shot. He doesn’t always catch pucks cleanly and has a tendency to fire off the toe or heel of the blade when pressured. He’s currently at his best in tight where his hands can take over. A Minnesota commit (I know, shocker), I’m very intrigued to see how Moore looks in the USHL to close the year. A strong performance could solidify his place in the first few rounds.

Hagen Burrows - Wing - Minnetonka High (USHS-MN)

6’2, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 52.5, Skills: 55, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 52.5

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Notes: Unlike his linemate at Minnetonka High Javon Moore, Hagen Burrows started the year in the USHL and was operating at over a point per game for Sioux City. Upon returning to Minnetonka High, Burrows has, as expected, been one of the best players in high school hockey and is a Mr. Hockey candidate. Burrows may have good size, but he’s not really a power forward. He has good puck protection tendencies and habits and can play the net front or work the wall, but he’s not an overtly physical player. He relies on quick touches and pre-scans to move the puck hastily and he has really good hands, which allows him to play around defenders and not through them like teammate Moore. Burrows is far from the world’s most dynamic skater, his stride lacks power and his feet are a little heavy, but because he is so calculated and has great vision, he’s still able to be an impact player at the USHL and high school levels. Burrows is particularly strong coming off the wall or when working down low where he has a full field of vision. He draws in pressure and passes off; his playmaking ability is impressive for a bigger winger. Burrows’ scoring ability is worth mentioning too. He can one-time pucks cleanly, has a quick snapshot, and does work his way to the net front to utilize his size advantage. At the USHL level, his game was certainly more one-dimensional than it has been at the high school level. He’s more engaged physically with Minnetonka High and is stronger off the puck. It will be interesting to see if when he returns to the USHL at the end of the year, we see a more complete player than at the start with Sioux City. It could simply be that Burrows lacks the strength currently to be a true two-way threat at the USHL level where players are more advanced physically. A Denver commit, Burrows will be heading to the Pioneers program at the right time, as under David Carle, it seems like everything they touch turns to gold these days; their development program has become top-notch. As is, I like Burrows as a mid-round gamble to develop into a quality middle-six winger who can play a support role because of his strong playmaking ability.

William Zellers - Wing - Shattuck St. Mary’s (USHS-Prep)

5’11, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 55, Skills: 55, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 53

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Notes: Zellers is going to be a tough player for NHL teams to evaluate this year. I’m going to guess that opinions on him will be quite split among staff members as they have their final meetings in June. On one hand, Zellers’ production this year has consistently been fantastic. He was one of the best players for the U.S. at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup and he’s carried that forward into being one of the highest-scoring players in the prep loop this year. You can’t argue that he possesses high-end skills. You can’t argue that he possesses high-end problem-solving skills and vision. For the kind of game that he plays, he’s also a fairly competitive young man who finds his way to the net consistently and who has no issue playing through the middle or having to take contact to make a play. Zellers is one of those “slippery” offensive zone wingers. He manages to escape coverage so consistently by anticipating the play ahead of others on the ice, and he has the skill to work around pressure, creating extra time by combining quick feet with quick hands. Now, notice how I said quick feet, I didn’t say overall strong skating. Therein lies one of the issues with Zellers and his NHL projection. He’s not a dynamic skater. He lacks power and his top speed is nothing to shake a fist at. He relies on his hands and ability to find space to carry the puck and create scoring chances. However, he does have excellent agility and is considerably more explosive on his edges than he is linear. Because of that, he’s able to consistently cut into the slot and leverage poor defensive coverage. With a quick release, he doesn’t need a ton of room either. In a lot of ways, there are similarities between Zellers and former OHL’er Cole Perfetti in terms of how they operate and their lack of dynamic skating despite possessing average size. The other issue is that one has to question how truly skilled Zellers is. Are average-sized wingers with skill and sense, but not elite skill, a dime a dozen in the grand scheme of things? As part of our midseason rankings, we ranked Zellers 95th and I believe the early to mid-fourth round makes sense for him. If he can improve his athleticism and physical tools over three or four years at North Dakota, his offensive skill set could make him a quality complementary piece in the middle of a lineup. Let us not forget that a guy like Jake Guentzel was drafted with similar concerns.

Aidan Park - Center - Shattuck St. Mary’s (USHS-Prep)

6’0, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 52.5, Shot: 52.5, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 52.875

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Notes: Once considered one of the top American-born players eligible for this draft, Park’s development has plateaued a bit in recent years. While his offensive upside may not be viewed in the same light it once was, he is still an intriguing prospect with pro potential thanks to his versatility. Park is a competitive two-way center who has a clear on-ice identity built around his intensity level and ability to get to the net. He’s not a physical player in the classical sense; don’t expect him to be out there throwing open ice hits or dropping the mitts. But, he’s always engaged in all three zones, is consistently tenacious in puck pursuit, battles hard to win puck battles along the wall, and jousts for positioning near the crease. Park is also a very intelligent pivot who has a clear understanding of spacing and the importance of varying pace to layer deception into transitional attacks. He draws in pressure and attacks the middle to open up space and is almost always on the mark with his passes, which really benefits linemates Ryker Lee (2025) and Will Zellers at Shattuck. His shot and scoring instincts are sound. His skating is only slightly above average. His stride is inconsistent and he can struggle to build or sustain speed at times. But, three or four years at the University of Michigan should help to improve his power. Due to the fact that his motor never stops, his skating is generally not seen as a hindrance. The real question mark is Park’s upside. At the prep level, his IQ and motor help him be an impact player, but what happens as he moves up the ladder and those strengths are neutralized? Is Park more than just a potential bottom-six center? Once Shattuck’s season ends, Park likely joins the USHL and it will be interesting to see how his game has improved in the last year, as the perception is that it hasn’t really progressed.

Alex Lunski - Center - Minnetonka High (USHS-MN)

6’4, 200lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 45, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 51

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Notes: Often the top pivot on a dominant Minnetonka High team (no pun intended), Lunski is a power center who is headed to the University of St. Thomas. Considering his average production (in both high school and the NAHL), and late birthdate, one might wonder what the appeal is; Lunski is unquestionably a long-term project. The appeal is that Lunski is a very strong skater for a player of his size and he also flashes the skill and creativity to be an offensive contributor at the higher levels. Watching a lot of Minnetonka High, Lunski is confused for Moore quite often by announcers because both are so big and powerful on the ice. Yet, Moore is definitely the more refined player and that’s saying something since his game is pretty raw too. Lunski can put defenders on his back coming off the wall and his top speed is very impressive, making him an effective transitional player. Consistency and skill application have been the biggest issues. Even at the high school level (and especially at the USHL and NAHL levels), plays can die on his stick. He gets to the net and provides a physical presence on some shifts. On others, he’s less than noticeable. But with his size, power, and speed, there’s both a high floor and a decent ceiling depending on how his skill set develops at the college level. As mentioned, despite being a late-born 2005, Lunski is very much a long-term project who is going to require a lot of development to be an NHL player. Yet, it’s rare to find this kind of athletic ability in a big, playmaking center and thus the allure.

Carson Pilgrim - Center - Warroad High (USHS-MN)

5’11, 165lbs

Grades: Skating: 52.5, Shot: 55, Skills: 55, Smarts: 52.5, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 52.375

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Notes: One of the highest-scoring players in Minnesota High School hockey the last two years, Pilgrim is a terrific offensive player. In reality, we in the scouting community should probably be asking ourselves what separates Pilgrim from someone like Will Zellers, who is consistently ranked much higher. Pilgrim has a similar offensive skill set but is the more dynamic skater at the same size. If you watch any of Pilgrim’s games at the USHL level the last few years (this year with Tri-City and last year with the NTDP U17s), it’s obvious that he can keep up at that level from a skating perspective. But I’d say the big difference is that Zellers is a more intense player away from the puck who is better at working through and attacking the middle. So that begs the question, what would you rather have? A more one-dimensional and dynamic offensive player yet to be tested at a higher level, or a more competitive, less dynamic, but equally skilled offensive player who has yet to be tested at a higher level? Pilgrim shoots the puck really well. He is lethal on the powerplay with that extra room to operate. He is very dangerous in transition because he is a dual threat and defenders have to respect both his shooting and passing ability. Once he adds strength and is able to withstand contact better, his offensive upside is pretty significant. But, I struggle to see him as a center long term. Additionally, he’s very much a boom or bust prospect and that proposition is scary for a high school player. How he finishes the year out with Tri-City in the USHL will likely go a long way in dictating where he gets drafted. A strong finish puts him in the top 100 conversation. A poor finish will cast doubt over whether his skill set translates and teams may opt to take a wait-and-see approach.

Nolan Roed - Center - White Bear Lake High (USHS-MN)

5’11, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 52.5, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 52.5

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Notes: A St. Cloud commit, Roed has been terrific across a few levels this year. He started the year with Tri-City of the USHL and was a near-point-per-game player before returning to White Bear Lake as one of the top offensive players in Minnesota. Roed is a highly competitive two-way center who is very inside-focused. Does a lot of his damage tight to the crease and in the home plate area. His intensity and high IQ allow him to consistently find those soft spots in coverage and get inside leverage on defenders between the hash marks. He’s very active in puck pursuit and is extremely effective as a forechecker, showing a penchant for throwing his weight around and making his presence felt physically. He’s also hard on pucks in the defensive end and routinely uses his strength to push opposing players to the wall, where he separates them from the puck and starts the counterattack. A strong north/south skater, Roed shows well in quick bursts and is able to drive the net with consistency. There’s room for improvement in his edgework and agility to make him less predictable as he climbs the ladder, especially given his average size. Additionally, given that he does so much of his damage in close quarters, is that projectable moving forward to the pro level in the future given his average size? Will he be as consistently dangerous near the crease and along the wall against bigger and quicker NHL defenders? That’s the obvious reason why NHL Central Scouting has him ranked quite low despite a really solid year. All that said, I quite like Roed. The speed and competitive drive are impressive and when you combine that with an obviously strong processing ability, you have a player who could develop into a quality middle six type at the NHL level. I know I already mentioned him, but I recall reading and thinking similar things about a guy named Jake Guentzel when he had a great year in the USHL as a draft re-entry.

Caden Lee - Wing - Chanhassen High (USHS-MN)

6’0, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 45, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 50.5

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Notes: A competitive, power winger, Lee is not currently ranked by NHL Central Scouting, but has had a great year split between Chanhassen High and Cedar Rapids of the USHL. The best way to describe Lee is that he’s the kind of player who is out on the ice regardless of whether you’re up a goal or down one. Even as a USHL rookie, Cedar Rapids was using him in key defensive situations to start the year. His physical approach and ability to protect the puck under pressure are impressive. Lee is a very strong board player who projects as an excellent complementary piece at the collegiate level because of his ability to create space and extend the time of possession in the offensive end. Lee also shows excellent anticipation in the offensive end, working the give-and-go and timing his cuts well to get open looks. He can one-time pucks relatively cleanly and his scoring upside at the higher levels is intriguing. However, Lee’s upside is completely tied to his ability to improve his skating. He definitely would be classified as someone who has “heavy boots.” It’s the precise reason why he’s not ranked by NHL Central Scouting. He struggles to build or sustain speed and relies solely on his ability to put defenders on his back and his hands to help him create space in the offensive zone. If he can improve his quickness and speed at Minnesota State, he could end up being an interesting signing option down the line; Minnesota State has developed players like Lee well in the last decade.

Caton Ryan - Center/Wing - Carleton Place Canadians (CCHL)

6’1, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 55, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 51.75

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Notes: Ryan is a player who was brought to my attention as a potential NHL draft pick by a former OHL assistant coach. The Clarkson commit was initially listed by NHL Central Scouting as a player to watch but failed to crack their midseason rankings. However, that could change on their final list with Ryan dominating the stat sheet to close out the CCHL season (six goals in his last five games as of writing this). Ryan’s game is highlighted by two things; his speed and his shot. He plays at a feverish pace and is always looking to attack the offensive zone with speed. He can be kept to the perimeter too much and does seem to have a need to add strength to play through contact (to limit turnovers), but his transitional play is a real strength. He understands spacing well when supporting the breakout and gets himself a lot of open looks to utilize his shot by settling into those soft spots by driving wide or altering his pace. As mentioned, the shot is also a real strength. A center at even strength, Ryan settles into a spot on the right side of the powerplay where he can use his one-timer and quick release to beat goalies cleanly. This is a multi-faceted goal scorer who I do believe profiles best on the wing at the NCAA and pro levels thanks to his speed and scoring touch. The rest of his game is a real work in progress and patience is going to be needed. He likely spends next year in the USHL or another NCAA feeder league before attending Clarkson, and I believe that step will be necessary for him. He needs to find a way to be more consistently involved when the game slows down at even strength, showing more poise down low to work the cycle. He forechecks hard and will use his speed to chip and chase, but when pressured along the wall, he can force bad passes or be stripped easily. His off-puck play is also inconsistent, likely due to some strength deficits. He kills penalties for Carleton Place because of his speed, but there’s a need to be more consistently hard on pucks in the defensive end. When you’re drafting in the later rounds, guys like Ryan should be potential targets because they possess a few tools that grade as above average, giving them upside as future pros. This is especially true when you consider that Ryan’s already progressed a lot in the last calendar, particularly as a skater.