Kashawn Aitcheson – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #14 New York Islanders – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Sat, 02 May 2026 18:00:09 +0000

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 20: Boston University Terriers forward Cole Eiserman (34) looks on during the Hockey East semifinal game between the Boston University Terriers and the UConn Huskies on March 20, 2025, at TD Garden in Boston, MA. (Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 14th (Last Year - 11th)
GM: Mathieu Darche Hired: May 2025
COACH: Patrick Roy Hired: January 2024

It has been a roller coaster for the New York Islanders in our McKeens rankings. After climbing an impressive 10 spots last year, the organization slides back three positions to 14th. That volatility can be tied to one player: Matthew Schaefer. After winning the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, the Islanders wasted no time selecting the dynamic Canadian defenceman first overall. Schaefer has exceeded even the highest expectations, making an immediate impact and graduating from prospect status the moment he took his rookie lap. In doing so, he has already begun to reshape the franchise's long-term outlook overnight.

With Schaefer no longer part of the “system”, the Islanders’ prospect pool is now headlined by two players selected shortly after him in the same draft: Victor Eklund (32nd) and Kashawn Aitcheson (35th). Eklund, taken 11th overall in 2025, has impressed during his rookie season in the SHL, showing strong offensive instincts against professional competition. Aitcheson, selected one pick later, led all OHL defencemen in scoring as captain of the Barrie Colts in 2025-26 and has since signed his entry-level contract. Cole Eiserman (45th), the Islanders’ first-round pick from 2024, has officially begun his professional journey. Following a 43-goals-in-71-game NCAA career, the sharpshooting winger has signed his papers and turned pro after his collegiate season concluded with a Hockey East quarterfinal exit.

With Schaefer accelerating the organization’s timeline, the Islanders have already begun to push their chips forward. The acquisition of veteran center Brayden Schenn — which cost the team its 2026 first-round and third-round picks — signals a clear commitment to competing now. As this new wave of young talent begins to integrate with the NHL roster, the Islanders appear to be transitioning into a new phase and one that could see a promising core quickly evolve into something far more impactful on Long Island.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
NYI	1	Victor Eklund	RW	19	5-11/170	Djurgardens (SHL)	43	6	18	24	22
NYI	1	Victor Eklund	RW	19	5-11/170	Bridgeport (AHL)	9	3	7	10	2
NYI	1	Victor Eklund	RW	19	5-11/170	NY Islanders (NHL)	1	0	1	1	0
NYI	2	Kashawn Aitcheson	D	19	6-2/200	Barrie (OHL)	56	28	42	70	97
NYI	3	Cole Eiserman	LW	19	6-0/195	Boston University (NCAA)	32	18	10	28	14
NYI	3	Cole Eiserman	LW	19	6-0/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	12	2	7	9	2
NYI	4	Danny Nelson	C	20	6-3/200	Notre Dame (NCAA)	36	13	16	29	32
NYI	5	Daniil Prokhorov	RW	19	6-6/220	Dynamo St. Petersburg (VHL)	25	9	9	18	14
NYI	5	Daniil Prokhorov	RW	19	6-6/220	Dynamo Moskva (KHL)	23	1	0	1	2
NYI	6	Dmitry Gamzin	G	23	6-3/175	CSKA Moskva (KHL)	40	22	10	1.49	0.938
NYI	7	Tomas Poletin	LW	19	6-2/205	Kelowna (WHL)	43	20	15	35	38
NYI	8	Isaiah George	D	22	6-0/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	47	2	16	18	20
NYI	8	Isaiah George	D	22	6-0/195	NY Islanders (NHL)	4	0	1	1	0
NYI	9	Xavier Veilleux	D	20	6-0/190	Cornell (NCAA)	34	6	20	26	12
NYI	10	Marshall Warren	D	25	5-11/170	Bridgeport (AHL)	56	6	26	32	30
NYI	10	Marshall Warren	D	25	5-11/170	NY Islanders (NHL)	8	0	3	3	4
NYI	11	Jacob Kvasnicka	RW	18	6-0/175	Penticton (WHL)	65	35	50	85	21
NYI	12	Alex Jefferies	LW	24	6-0/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	60	9	20	29	46
NYI	13	Matt Maggio	RW	23	5-10/185	Bridgeport (AHL)	56	6	26	32	30
NYI	14	Quinn Finley	LW	21	6-0/180	Wisconsin (NCAA)	37	17	16	33	22
NYI	15	Luca Romano	C	18	6-0/175	Kitchener (OHL)	55	14	19	33	22

Victor Eklund, RW, Djurgårdens IF (SHL) (Currently with Bridgeport Islanders, AHL)

Eklund’s season so far has largely met expectations, and the New York Islanders organization is certainly pleased with his progress since the 2025 Draft. Eklund continues to trend upward this season, taking the next step in competition with Djurgården following their promotion from Allsvenskan to the SHL. He’s showing improved pace and growing confidence attacking high traffic areas. Playing against heavier competition, he has adjusted well, displaying stronger puck poise and an increased willingness to dictate play rather than play it safe. His offensive skillset remains his biggest asset, highlighted by quick decision making, soft hands in tight spaces, and a consistent ability to find space through coverage. Eklund elevated his stock further during the WJC, playing a meaningful role in Sweden’s gold-medal performance. He handled top line matchups effectively, showing composure in pressure moments while contributing steady offensive support. His play-driving habits and transitional awareness were noticeable throughout the tournament. His strengths are built around strong on-ice awareness, puck skill, and offensive anticipation. Eklund regularly identifies open space and supports possession sequences with quick, efficient decision making. Physical maturity remains the primary developmental challenge, as he can lose battles against bigger, stronger defenders. His projection leans toward a middle six scoring winger with power play value, with added strength potentially unlocking top six offensive upside.
Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie Colts (OHL)

Selected 17th overall in the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders, Aitcheson is in his fourth season in the OHL and shares the captaincy with Utah Mammoth prospect Cole Beaudoin. He led all OHL defencemen with 28 goals and in points with 70. Aitcheson set the new franchise record for most career points by a defenceman in Barrie Colts history surpassing former Colt, Brandt Clarke’s record of 158 career points. Aitcheson has continued to take meaningful steps forward with his five-on-five offensive play. His physicality remains a strong suit, averaging roughly a hit per game while keeping his penalty minutes low. An area of improvement is limiting mistakes in the defensive zone; his skating has improved and moves well in all directions for his physique but recognizing when to close out quicker and making more consistent reads with the puck. Barrie has their sights on another deep playoff run so expect Aitcheson to log heavy minutes matched up against top heavy forwards.
Cole Eiserman, LW, Boston University (NCAA) (Currently with Bridgeport Islanders, AHL)

The enigmatic goal scoring machine, Cole Eiserman continued firing on all cylinders with Boston U. this year, registering 18 goals in 32 games. He brings elite shooting tools and a nose for the net to the Islanders club. The sophomore’s shot is elite, and he possesses a release that can fool goalies from any area on the ice when in scoring range. He is also not averse to the physical component of the game and is willing to sacrifice his body to set himself up into prime scoring locations. A 20th overall selection in the 2024 NHL draft, Eiserman will always be known for scoring goals, but it would be nice to see him evolve his game into more of a playmaker and look for opportunities to dish the puck when the time is right. This would make him a dual threat and help elevate his game to the next level. Set up with a good playmaker, Eiserman could easily be a top scorer for the Islanders down the road.
Danny Nelson, C, University of Notre Dame (NCAA)

A leader on Notre Dame, as is evidenced by the certification of team Captain, Nelson brings a hard nose and no-nonsense style game to the team. He also displayed his offensive chops by putting up 28 points in 35 games this past season. The third year player has increased his NCAA totals each of the season’s he’s played for the Fighting Irish, which is something you like to see in a prospect. What you get with Nelson is an endless motor with high compete and physicality in his game. He is always noticeable during games and is in the mix more times than not. The Islanders' second rounder is a reliable two-way forward with some offensive upside. He has a relatively high floor thanks to his size, skating, and high IQ combination. At the very least, he could develop into an excellent defensive forward and penalty killer. Expect him to make the jump to the pro ranks very soon and he could move quickly through the Islanders’ system.
Daniil Prokhorov, RW, Dynamo St. Petersburg (KHL)

The 6-foot-6 second round draft pick had a chaotic start to this season, getting 1-5 shifts a game in the KHL before bouncing around between all three Russian leagues. He has finally settled into the VHL and has since played well, scoring 18 points in 25 games, some of those games with extremely limited ice time. The most consistent thing about Prokhorov is his inconsistency. Not even shift to shift, but moment to moment he can go from a high paced, physical, net driven monster to being completely checked out, not moving his feet and letting pucks go past him. At his best, he can take over possession. The size and skating combination is a beautiful thing to watch as he drives wide to blow by defenders before cutting to the crease. His shot is strong and can throw high danger passes to the slot through pressure. He is violent along the boards, always looking for big hits and to regain possession. But more often than you'd like, he floats around and is completely disengaged from play with negative awareness. He’s also quite poor defensively, out of position and looking to fly the zone for offence. There is potential to be special if he can work on his determination and decision making. A change of scenery could be the answer, as North American coaching could help round out the rest of his game and reach the heights of his full potential, but for now he looks like a bottom six heavy hitting instigator.
Tomas Poletin, LW, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

Tomas Poletin’s first season in North America has gone largely as expected. The Czech winger was selected by the New York Islanders with the 106th pick in the 2025 NHL Draft (not far off our ranking at McKeen’s, where we had him 103rd overall) following a strong season in Finland splitting time between the Lahti Pelicans’ junior and professional teams, which included 15 games in the Liiga, Finland’s top professional league. Poletin joined the Kelowna Rockets this season after the Memorial Cup hosts selected him first overall in the CHL Import Draft, and he has slotted into a top six role. He also captured silver with Czechia at the most recent World Junior Championship, recording four goals and two assists in seven games. His game remains largely unchanged from his draft-eligible season. Poletin is not known for flashy or highly creative plays, operating with a direct, north-south approach that can limit his offensive ceiling from a projection standpoint. What he lacks in dynamism, however, he makes up for with his motor and work ethic. He consistently attacks the hard areas, competes for pucks, and plays with energy. His approach is simple but effective. If he can add another gear to his skating and continue to build strength, he could become a more dangerous player at higher levels. For now, his play style fits the mould of an energetic, bottom six checking role.
Isaiah George, D, Bridgeport Islanders (AHL)

After finding himself having surprisingly gotten into 33 NHL games in his rookie pro season, displaying plenty of potential as a future puck-moving defender with above average mobility, George has spent the bulk of this season in the AHL refining and improving his game all over the ice. A slight injury cost him roughly a month’s worth of action between November and December, but it didn’t take long to get to full speed before the holidays. And although his statistical output in the form of goals and assists has been fine and very akin to what he generated in his rookie AHL season, his +/- has improved drastically. He’s displayed a newfound calm in his game and confidence in his actions, both with and without the puck. By late January, he got a two-game call-up to the Island, where he averaged just over 13 minutes of ice time and collected an assist in a 4-1 win over the Flyers. Overall, he’s shown an ever-improving ability to outskate his opponents, regain lost space, and apply an active stick to his defensive play that allows for a higher propensity of transitional play. An NHL future is clearly in the cards and another stay on the Island this season would surprise no-one in the organization.
Dmitry Gamzin, G, CSKA Moscow (KHL)

Gamzin has been on a tear this season. He currently leads the KHL in SV%, GAA, and second in shutouts, leading him to an all-star game appearance at 22 years old. He has all the tools you look for in goalies; 6-foot-3, athletic, strong skater, and effectively reads the ice in front of him. Rarely do you see opponents beat him when he has a clean look. His pads are strong; he controls rebounds and can track the puck through traffic. He recently signed an extension through the 2027-28 season, which gives him more time to dominate the KHL, and continues to develop his game. Despite the great success, he is still a bit raw. Some slight refinement to his technique, angles/positioning, and side to side mobility would bode well for him. It isn’t difficult to envision him as an NHL caliber goaltender. As of right now, there are no real elite standout traits, but he is an extremely well-rounded goalie playing at a very high level. If he takes another step over these next few years, he could very well be next in the line of elite Russian goalies that have taken over the NHL.
Xavier Veilleux, D, Cornell University (NCAA)

An Islander defensive prospect with Cornell, Veilleux has shown some real promising point producing acumen, being one of the top-scoring rookie D in the NCAA with 26 points in 33 games. He has adapted well as a freshman and the progression in his game could reveal him to be a late round steal for Long Island who drafted him in the sixth round in 2024. Veilleux projects as a decent two-way, puck moving defenceman with some nice play-driving ability. He can manipulate oncoming pressure and has decent patience when the puck is on his stick. Based on his NCAA results this year, it would appear that repeating the USHL level was the correct decision as it helped a seamless transition to a higher level. Veilleux is best described as a high IQ player, with his defensive game showing great growth last year. Cornell is a great program for him to continue to develop defensively. A mobile defender, the question marks surrounding Veilleux would be around projection. Could he be a Calvin de Haan type for the Islanders in the future?
Marshall Warren, D, Bridgeport Islanders (AHL)

It’s been a very positive year for Warren, who wasn’t seen as one of the Islanders’ top 15 prospects heading into the season. Signed to an ELC as an unrestricted free agent in 2024 after having gone unsigned by the Minnesota Wild, who drafted him in the sixth round of the 2019 draft, the Long Island native has since slowly but surely endeared himself to the fanbase and new management alike. He showed promise in his initial season with the organization, which was spent entirely with a very downtrodden Bridgeport Islanders outfit, but has seen his play jump in leaps and bounds in all three zones this season, having blown away last season’s statistical totals already by his 30th appearance of the season. This also led to him getting his first taste of NHL hockey, where he tallied three assists in eight games by the Olympic break, showing a strong ability to keep up with the pace of the NHL game while facing his challenges from a defensive standpoint. He’ll be an RFA this summer but it’s hard to imagine him not being re-upped as sound defensive depth for the organization.
Jacob Kvasnicka, RW, Penticton Vees (WHL)

Talk about a breakout year. A depth piece on the NTDP last year, Kvasnicka joined Penticton of the WHL this year and has been one of the league’s best players. He plays at a blistering pace and is a prospect on the rise.
Alex Jefferies, LW, Bridgeport Islanders (AHL)

A strong skating, playmaking winger, Jefferies has had a solid sophomore pro season with Bridgeport. He’s put himself in the conversation for an NHL opportunity and could end up a solid middle six, complementary piece.
Matthew Maggio, RW, Bridgeport Islanders (AHL)

The former Red Tilson winner as the OHL’s top player was a disappointment through his first two pro seasons, but Maggio has been much better this year for Bridgeport. Much like Jefferies, he has likely put himself in the Islanders plans moving forward.
Quinn Finley, LW, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

Finley has some pro level attributes as a goal scoring winger. He can play with pace and shows good offensive instincts off the puck. Look for him to turn pro after his junior season with Wisconsin is over.
Luca Romano, C, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

As the Kitchener Rangers have added to their lineup to push for a Western Conference championship, Romano has found himself further down the lineup this year in his draft plus one year. However, he’s still been effective in a depth role, showing greater consistency in all three zones. Expect a big offensive jump next year.

NHL: Victor Nuño – Dynasty Stock Watch – New York Islanders Edition

Victor Nuño — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:37:11 +0000

Team Outlook

There is no question that Matthew Schaefer has completely altered both the trajectory and timing of the competitive window for the Islanders. His historic season has accelerated the organization into more of a win-now phase, reshaping how they evaluate and deploy talent across the roster. With cornerstone pieces already in place at each position, Mathew Barzal, Bo Horvat, Schaefer, and Ilya Sorokin, the foundation is strong, but the supporting cast remains a work in progress.

This places the Islanders in a unique transitional phase, balancing immediate competitiveness with the need to develop and integrate younger talent. The prospect pipeline is not among the league’s deepest, but it carries increased importance as the organization looks to round out its roster with cost-controlled contributors. From a dynasty perspective, this creates both opportunity and volatility. Identifying which prospects can meaningfully support the current core, and which players may be overvalued relative to their long-term projection, will be key to gaining an edge.

Buy Candidates

Dmitri Gamzin, G

Gamzin is quietly emerging as one of the more intriguing goaltending prospects outside the NHL. Playing in Russia, he has shown strong composure and technical ability, with a calm, controlled style that projects well to higher levels. There are also some strong indicators beneath the surface. Hockey Prospecting gives him a 97% chance of becoming an NHLer, with notable comparables including Igor Shesterkin and fellow Islanders goaltender Sorokin. He was not drafted until age 21 and has already played 79 KHL games, which suggests his timeline may be shorter than that of a typical goalie prospect.

Goaltenders always carry inherent risk, but Gamzin’s profile is trending in the right direction. With Marcus Gidlof traded to St. Louis in the trade that brought Brayden Schenn to the Islanders, Gamzin’s stock gets a slight boost as the top goaltending prospect behind Sorokin in the Islanders’ system. The organization also lacks a clear long-term answer in net beyond its current group, giving Gamzin a realistic path to future value. If he were ever dealt to a weaker goaltending system, as Gidlof was, his stock could rise even more. This is the kind of profile that can reward dynasty managers who buy in before broader recognition sets in.

Kashawn Aitcheson, D

Aitcheson brings a highly projectable blend of physicality, mobility, and offensive upside that fits the mold of the modern NHL defenseman. While he has long been known for his edge and willingness to punish opponents, it was his offensive game that took a meaningful step forward this season. As captain of the Barrie Colts, he has helped lead the club to the Eastern Conference semifinals in the OHL playoffs as the second seed behind Brantford. He moves pucks efficiently, can support the attack, and now looks more capable of providing secondary offense than he did a year ago. His pNHLe via the NHL Rank King application is nearing 80, which feels like an unlikely outcome, so I would not buy expecting that level of offense at the next level.

From a fantasy standpoint, his appeal is especially strong in multi-category formats. Defensemen who can contribute across blocks, shots, and hits (BASH) often outperform expectations, and Aitcheson is trending toward that type of profile. Even if not every hit connects, the ones that do are often the kind that change momentum and force opposing forwards to keep their heads up. He plays with the sort of intimidation factor that can alter how opponents attack his side of the ice. One of his comparables is Cody Ceci, which feels like a reasonable stylistic match, though Aitcheson appears to show better decision-making and less panic with the puck at this stage. As his overall game continues to round out, his value is likely to keep rising, making him a strong buy before that progression becomes more widely recognized.

Victor Eklund, LW

Eklund remains one of the more exciting prospects in the Islanders’ system, and arguably one of the most dynamic offensive talents in their pipeline. He combines high-end skating with an aggressive, pace-driving style that allows him to attack defenders, generate chances off the rush, and keep pressure on in the offensive zone. While his SHL production dipped this season, he showed well at the U20 World Junior Championships, helping Sweden win gold and reinforcing the idea that he can elevate in high-pressure settings. Since arriving in North America, he has also made an immediate impression with AHL Bridgeport, which only adds to his appeal within a prospect pool that could use more speed and creativity up front.

What makes Eklund especially valuable in the Islanders’ system is that he brings skills their pipeline does not have in abundance. His Fantasy Hockey Life skater card points to elite transition play in the SHL when carrying the puck in and out of the zone, along with strong Fenwick numbers, loose-puck recoveries, and puck-battle results. He also offers some BASH value, with solid hit and block rates for a forward. There is still room for growth in terms of consistency and decision-making, but the combination of skill, pace, and competitiveness gives him a real chance to emerge as a top-six option and one of the organization’s more important forward prospects.

Sell Candidates

Cole Eiserman, LW

Eiserman’s value remains heavily tied to his elite goal-scoring reputation, and while that shot is very real, it may also be inflating his dynasty price. He can beat goalies in multiple ways and is dangerous whenever he finds space in his spots, but the rest of his game still carries notable concerns. His off-puck play remains underdeveloped, and there are holes in his transition game and puck-battle ability. He is not especially physical, and for a player whose fantasy appeal is so tied to scoring, that creates more risk than his name value may suggest.

The concern for fantasy managers is that if Eiserman tops out as more of a one-dimensional trigger man than a complete offensive driver, he may struggle to earn the kind of all-situations role needed to maximize his upside. If all he really does at a high level is shoot, he could end up limited to 14 minutes a night with much of his value tied to power-play deployment. That creates a wide range of outcomes, from a useful specialist to something more disappointing, with names like Filip Zadina, Daniel Sprong, or Anthony Beauvillier coming to mind as stylistic caution points. Given that he has had time to round out the weaker areas of his game and the progress has been modest, this may be the ideal time to sell while the goal-scoring hype still drives the market.

Kamil Bednarik, C

Bednarik is a strong real-life play driver, but his fantasy outlook appears far more limited than his name value may suggest. He works well within the flow of play, can support possession, and brings traits that should help him earn trust from coaches, especially in matchup and penalty-killing situations. The issue for dynasty managers is that those strengths do not always translate into meaningful fantasy value. At this point, he looks more like the type of player who could become an effective bottom-six center than someone with a clear top six offensive path.

That concern is reinforced by the production profile. While there have been flashes of skill and playmaking, he has not translated that into more than half a point per game in the NCAA, and Hockey Prospecting gives him just a one percent chance of becoming a star, which feels about right. As the Islanders’ system continues to evolve, players without a standout fantasy trait are at risk of being passed over by higher-upside options. If another manager still views Bednarik as a potential offensive breakout, this may be the right time to cash out.

Quinn Finley, LW

In his third NCAA season, Finley regressed to under a point per game at Wisconsin, despite the team around him being much better. That matters for a player whose fantasy case is already built more on efficiency and complementary offense than on driving play through elite tools. He is a smart player who understands spacing, gets to the right areas, and can capitalize on chances, but there is still a question of how much offense he will be able to create for himself and others at higher levels.

His pNHLe via the NHL Rank King application has dipped back to 45 after rising to 59 last season, reinforcing the idea that his long-term ceiling may be more modest than some managers hope. At best, he looks like a 50-60 point NHL winger, and even that may require the right deployment and supporting cast. If Wisconsin’s trip to the NCAA title game has boosted his profile in your league, this could be a good time to cash in before his value settles back into the range of a more limited NHL projection.

Summary

Player	Role	Key Insight
Dmitri Gamzin	Buy	Emerging goalie with long-term upside
Kashawn Aitcheson	Buy	Physical, mobile defenseman with multi-cat value
Victor Eklund	Buy	Dynamic offensive winger with upside
Cole Eiserman	Sell	Elite shot but potential one-dimensional scorer
Kamil Bednarik	Sell	Lacks clear high-end projection
Quinn Finley	Sell	Likely complementary winger with limited ceiling

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK ISLANDERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #11

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:42:03 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 11th (May 2025 - 21st)
GM: Mathieu Darche Hired: May 2025
COACH: Patrick Roy Hired: January 2024

Jumping up ten spots is the New York Islanders, which significantly reshaped their prospect pool and hopefully the future of the organization.

They headlined the off-season by trading top defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for back-to-back picks at 15th and 16th in the 2025 draft. After already landing their new franchise blueliner, Matthew Schaefer, with the first overall pick, the Islanders used those mid-round slots to select Victor Eklund and throwback-style defender Kashawn Aitcheson. They also added high-regarded second-rounder Daniil Prokhorov.

Those names are in addition to adding an already high-caliber youngster in Calum Ritchie. Rarely do teams land a top-tier prospect in exchange for a rental player, yet that’s exactly what happened when the Isles acquired Ritchie from Colorado for long-time Islander Brock Nelson.

Ritchie brings slick hands, elite hockey sense, and a track record of production, finishing his OHL career with 254 points in 221 games for Oshawa. He’ll eventually join forces with Cole Eiserman, the sharpshooting Boston University freshman who scored 25 goals, earned Hockey East All-Rookie Team honours, and won gold at the World Juniors. Eiserman is set to return to school for his sophomore season, but the potential of a Ritchie–Eiserman tandem gives the Islanders a legitimate offensive foundation for the future.

Supporting that core is a trio of defensive prospects—Isaiah George, Calle Odelius, and Jesse Pulkkinen—currently developing in the AHL with Bridgeport.

With Lou Lamoriello stepping aside, the Islanders enter uncharted territory under Mathieu Darche. The NHL roster’s middling performance suggests a retool is in order, and the influx of high-end young talent this year represents a promising first step.

New York Islanders Top-15 Prospects

1 - Matthew Schaefer

Everyone’s favourite story from this past year saw the Isles draft Schaefer first overall. A mature young man, Schaefer was selected first despite missing a significant portion of the year due to a collarbone injury. The reason for that is that Schaefer is the complete package. He’s an elite skater and processor who impacts the game in so many different ways. He’s also the kind of player who oozes leadership qualities and could, one day soon, wear a letter for the Islanders. A potential top pairing defender and minute muncher, Schaefer will attempt to make the Islanders roster this year or he will return to the OHL after signing his ELC. A return to junior hockey might not be a bad thing for his development considering how little he played last season. This would allow him to build up strength and confidence before making that jump to the show. Don’t worry, Islanders’ fans, you won’t have to wait long for Schaefer to make an impact.

2 - Cole Eiserman

Eiserman’s progression over the season showed notable growth in engagement and consistency in his game. Early in the season he displayed inconsistent effort, lack of defensive commitment, and limited puck support, often disengaged without contributing in all three zones. However, as the season progressed, he demonstrated increased physical presence, stronger puck protection, and a more competitive forecheck. His offensive strengths remained a consistent theme, with a quick release, powerful shot, and strong net-front presence. Eiserman excels as a shoot-first offensive forward with solid skating, puck handling, and net-front scoring ability. His quick release and shot accuracy are his most valuable assets. Weaknesses wise, his effort and defensive responsibility remain inconsistent. Eiserman projects as a top six scoring winger with powerplay upside. Continued improvements in compete level and decision making will be very important for his game to transition well to the pro level.

3 - Victor Eklund

The speedy, energetic Eklund immediately becomes one of the Islanders best prospects after falling into their laps at 16th overall. The young Swedish winger should endear himself to Isles fans in no time at all. He’s a total spark plug. He skates like the wind, his processing speed is excellent, and his motor never stops. He’s so slippery along the wall and makes plays from the boards to the middle with ease. He can fill the net with his laser of a shot as well. Although he’s on the smaller side, Eklund is a bulldog who plays bigger than he is. He will have to bulk up and get some seasoning against better competition before he’s considered NHL ready, however. After tearing up the HockeyAllsvenskan and helping his team secure SHL promotion, Eklund will have the chance to do so. He should assume a top six role with Djurgården and will most likely slot into the Isles top nine when he makes the jump across the pond. If all goes well, Eklund could be a 20+ goal scoring winger at the NHL level.

4 - Calum Ritchie

Acquired from Colorado for Brock Nelson, Ritchie joins a very quickly revamped Islanders’ prospect group. Last season, he cracked the Avalanche opening night roster and even scored his first NHL goal in one of the seven games he appeared in. Upon returning to Oshawa, Ritchie was generally a standout for the Generals, although you could probably make an argument that his game didn’t take a huge leap forward this past year. He was more aggressive in playing through the middle and getting to the net, but he’s still not shooting the puck enough and his defensive metrics took a bit of a step backward. Ritchie is at his best when he’s dictating pace with the puck on his stick because of how skilled a playmaker he is. He is excellent at drawing in pressure before finding open passing lanes; he’s poised beyond his years. Yet, Colorado was obviously concerned about the lack of urgency in his game at times, so hopefully the Islanders’ organization can bring out the best in him. At this point, you’re probably looking at something similar to what Dylan Strome has become, which is a valuable secondary offensive option.

5 - Kashawn Aitcheson

A true throwback, Aitcheson was one of three first-round selections by the Islanders in 2025 as they attempt to re-tool after the Lou Lamoriello era. The Barrie Colt defender is a feared and ferocious physical player. He also took massive steps forward this past season as an offensive player, emerging as one of the OHL’s elite two-way defenceman. He creates a lot of his offence from his booming point shot and off puck activation, which could make him a weapon on the power play at the NHL level eventually. As Aitcheson returns to the OHL for likely his final season, the focus for him will be to continue to build upon his two-way ability, while tightening up his decision making in the defensive end to become a true stalwart. He projects as a versatile second pairing defender who can be the kind of defender you want in your lineup come playoff time. There is a very real chance that he cracks the 30-goal plateau in the OHL this upcoming season, and that’s a milestone few junior defenders have hit recently.

6 - Isaiah George

Isaiah George was particularly impressive last season, but not just because he was a first-year pro. George was so impressive because he was thrust into a prominent NHL role very early on during his pro career, and this was unexpected by many people because of his pedigree as a later-round NHL draft pick. With that being said, George was extremely impressive in big minutes for the Islanders, and he also played quite well as a smart, strong-skating defender for a very poor Bridgeport Islanders team. Like it is for any first-year pro, last season presented its own growing pains, as George had to learn to defend against NHL-calibre players a bit on the fly, but his foundation dating back to his time with the London Knights is very strong. George looks like he has all the tools to develop into a bona fide top four defenceman that can drive the play in both the offensive and defensive zones, and he should become a full-time member of the New York Islanders’ blueline this upcoming season.

7 - Maxim Shabanov

Shabanov is the latest in a long line of undrafted Russian players who developed in the KHL and earned a chance to prove themselves at the top level. After dominating the past few seasons in Chelyabinsk, the Islanders were eager to snatch him up and pair him with Tsypaklov for a talented scoring duo. He is a speedy forward with smooth hands and a quick release. He has a knack for finding pucks and creating looks without wasting a second. He is a dual threat offensive talent with the ability to create with his passing and wristshot. Maxim’s biggest challenge will be overcoming his lack of size, but he possesses the speed and skill to give him a real shot with the Isles. Expect him to slot in as a top six forward with a real chance to improve the team's scoring potential.

8 - Daniil Prokhorov

Daniil Prokhorov was one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects from this past year's draft class. His size and highlight reel goals off the rush made him a star in many scouts' eyes. He pushes up ice with pace and has a knack for faking out defenders with skilled dekes. He has a heavy shot and can pick corners well when firing off the rush. Lots of work needs to be put in to reach the next level. His skating needs a lot of work mechanically to keep up with the speed and agility of the NHL. He also needs to work on becoming more competitive in battles for the puck. As a second-round pick, Prokhorov is a good bet to make. Lots of time will need to be put in but a high ceiling as a top six winger makes the risk worthwhile.

9 - Danny Nelson

Danny Nelson was a second-round pick by the Islanders in 2023, and though he won’t blow anyone away with his counting stats, has a two-way skill set that could make him a very valuable piece of the future on Long Island. The 6-foot-3 centerman has been a workhorse for Notre Dame in his collegiate career, being leaned upon in all situations. Nelson is a good skater, has some skill, and has a shot that is a threat in the offensive zone, but what really sets him apart is his high motor and his ability to use his size to win puck battles and create space. His play isn’t flashy, but his versatility and dependability could make him a fan favourite before long. Nelson profiles as an energetic bottom six NHL center who can kill penalties, play with grit, and chip in some secondary scoring. He is heading back to Notre Dame this season.

10 - Luca Romano

Speed and pace are the name of the game for Romano currently. He loves to play the game at a breakneck pace and is consistently looking to use his speed to attack the offensive zone. A lack of size and consistency drove him down draft boards, but a lot of that can be attributed to a lack of strength and a need to improve his conditioning. As he matures physically, his two-way game and off puck play could actually become a strength and may be the key to his future NHL success. He’ll need to develop into a versatile and competitive player to be a long time NHL forward at his size. This is especially true considering that he doesn’t possess the creativity or high-end skill to be a big time point producer at the NHL level. As an offensive player, his biggest weapon may just be his shot, so look for him to find ways to be a more consistent scorer this year with the Kitchener Rangers. A long-term project, the Islanders will be patient with Romano, who may just be the kind of player who might benefit from the new NCAA eligibility rules.

11 - Marcus Gidlof

It was quite the season for the tall, well-schooled goalie. Despite many backers his draft year, few saw him not only making the SHL this season but becoming a 1B starter of sorts for Leksands. His 11 wins in 17 SHL outings, WJC gold medal game performance, 14-4 U20 league record, and outstanding 2-0 record with a .980 save percentage to cap off Djurgarden’s historic promotion to the SHL all have him lined up as one to watch moving forward.

12 - Quinn Finley

Finley has become a sneaky good NHL prospect, displaying strong creative instincts, a deft stick, and sly shot-release motions. A bit on the light side, Finley can prance in and out of lanes and plays with a deceptive nonchalance, often a step ahead of the play. In his just concluded sophomore season, he more than doubled his total output from the year before, leading Wisconsin in scoring. Islanders brass is felt to hold him in high regard.

13 - Kamil Bednarik

After enjoying a fantastic 95-point draft year with the USNTDP, including solid contributions to a U18 Worlds gold medal, Bednarik stepped into BU’s line-up this past season and promptly became one of coach Jay Pandolfo’s key faceoff and shutdown situation specialists. Despite getting the bulk of the defensive responsibility in key situations right on into the national championship game, Bednarik also managed to finish seventh on the team in assists. Look for his TOI to increase this winter.

14 - Jesse Pulkkinen

Pulkkinen presents surprisingly solid agility and mobility for a 6-foot-6 defenceman and that’ll need to be his calling card moving forward. Last season, he showed little Liiga-play progress vis-a-vis his overage draft year, putting up comparable stats in nine more games. He then concluded the year with the Bridgeport Islanders of the AHL, where his -8 plus-minus in 10 games fit right in with the league-worst outfit. It’s time for the talented Pulkkinen to take the next step.

15 - Calle Odelius

After missing the vast majority of the 2023-24 season, Odelius was thrown into the deep end for the tire fire that was the Bridgeport Islanders last year. To his credit, his -34 plus-minus had as much to do with the whole team’s results as the difficulties of being a young AHL rookie. A fluid skating defenceman who can make slick breakout passes, the hope is that Odelius’ sophomore year in AHL will have him showing more routine and improved puck-protection.

MCKEEN’S HOCKEY 2025 NHL DRAFT GUIDE: TWO-ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Brock Otten — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:33:54 +0000

1. New York Islanders - Matthew Schaefer - Defense

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

2. San Jose Sharks - Michael Misa - Center

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

3. Chicago Blackhawks - Caleb Desnoyers - Center

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

4. Utah Mammoth - Anton Frondell - Center

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

5. Nashville Predators - James Hagens - Center

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

6. Philadelphia Flyers - Porter Martone - Wing

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

7. Boston Bruins - Brady Martin - Center

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

8. Seattle Kraken - Radim Mrtka - Defense

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

9. Buffalo Sabres - Victor Eklund - Wing

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

10. Anaheim Ducks - Jake O’Brien - Center

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

11. Pittsburgh Penguins - Roger McQueen - Center

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

12. New York Rangers - Jackson Smith - Defense

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

13. Detroit Red Wings - Kashawn Aitcheson - Defense

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

14. Columbus Blue Jackets - Justin Carbonneau - Wing

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

15. Vancouver Canucks - Braeden Cootes - Center

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

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

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

17. Montreal Canadiens - Blake Fiddler - Defense

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

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

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

19. St. Louis Blues - Lynden Lakovic - Wing

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

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

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

21. Ottawa Senators - Jakob Ihs Wozniak - Wing

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

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

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

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

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

24. Los Angeles Kings - Sascha Boumedienne - Defense

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

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

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

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

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

27. Washington Capitals - Henry Brzustewicz - Defense

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

28. Winnipeg Jets - Milton Gastrin - Center

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

29. Carolina Hurricanes - Cullen Potter - Center/Wing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Chicago Blackhawks - Simon Wang - Defense

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

35. Nashville Predators - Kurban Limatov - Defense

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

36. Philadelphia Flyers - Jacob Rombach - Defense

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

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

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

38. Seattle Kraken - Eric Nilson - Center

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

39. Buffalo Sabres - Shane Vansaghi - Wing/Center

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

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

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

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

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

42. New York Islanders - Ben Kindel - Center

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

43. New York Rangers - Cole McKinney - Center

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

44. Detroit Red Wings - Alexander Zharovsky - Wing

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

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

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

46. Utah Mammoth - Ivan Ryabkin - Center

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

47. Vancouver Canucks - Semyon Frolov - Goaltender

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

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

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

49. Montreal Canadiens - Jack Murtagh - Wing

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

50. New Jersey Devils - Matthew Gard - Center

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

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

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

52. Minnesota Wild - Petteri Rimpinen - Goaltender

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

58. Vegas Golden Knights - Max Psenicka - Defense

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2025 MCKEEN’S NHL DRAFT GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DOWNLOAD!

McKeen's Hockey — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:05:49 +0000

We are very proud to release our 2025 NHL Draft Guide. The culmination of a season's worth of scouting, travelling and logging countless hours on video, we want to thank our dedicated team of scouts across the country.

140-page magazine (PDF format) for download
Top 300 NHL Draft Prospects
In-depth profiles with grades in five characteristics for forwards, six for goaltenders.
Best of skills rankings
A two round mock draft
Feature articles including interviews, top sleepers, plus much more ...

You can read about our final first round rankings in this free article

Subscribers can download the magazine here.

If you are not a subscriber and interested in learning more, you can learn more here.

Subscribers will receive access for three months and will include all of our other NHL draft coverage as well preparation for the upcoming season. If you choose not to subscribe and wish for a direct download, that will be available next week.

Check out our in-depth profile of #1 ranked Matthew Schaefer as an example of our coverage.

2025 NHL DRAFT: FINAL RANKINGS – TOP 32 – Schaefer and Misa clear 1-2 punch at top of draft- Magazine releasing June 13th

Kyle Watson — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 18:25:10 +0000

Our final 2025 NHL Draft Rankings have arrived!

For the second year running, we have compiled a ranking of the top 300 prospects eligible, instead of a top 224 with honourable mentions. This list follows our March top 100 ranking, our pre-World Juniors top 64, and preliminary top 32.

Our ranking is comprised of 176 forwards, 87 defencemen and 37 goaltenders. It is a strong class between the pipes, with Prince George Cougars netminder Joshua Ravensbergen at 30th, five goalies ranked in the top 64, and 10 in the top 100.

By nationality, Canada leads the way with 106 representatives, followed by the USA with 63, Sweden (36), Russia (20), Finland (20), Czechia (16), Slovakia (11), Switzerland (7), Germany (6), Denmark (4), Belarus (3), Latvia (2), and Norway (2).

It could be a milestone draft for a few countries. Oshawa Generals defenceman Simon Wang is projected to be highest-drafted Chinese player in NHL history. At the same time, Bruno Idzan, a winger for the USHL’s Lincoln Stars, looks to be the first player from Croatia to be selected. Alexander Levshyn, who has spent the last two seasons in the OJHL, has the chance to be the fourth Ukrainian to hear his name called on draft day this century.

Sascha Boumedienne is the most notable riser from our March ranking, jumping 24 spots into the first round. His 14 points in five games for Sweden are the most by a defender in U18s history.

An improved second half of the campaign in combination with a strong showing at the U18s propels Cole Reschny from 38th to 28th overall. The Canadian centreman scored twice, including the OT winner, in the quarterfinals against Czechia, and finished with five goals and eight points in five games.

Roman Bausov and Reese Hamilton each fell 63 places from our last list–the most of any player. Following them are Nathan Behm (-60), Maxim Agafonov, and Shamar Moses (-45).

Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa remain the clear 1-2 punch at the top of the draft on the back of two of the most impressive (albeit limited, in Schaefer’s case) draft-year campaigns in recent OHL history.

At the NHL level, the Erie Otters' superstar projects as a prototypical, modern-day No.1 defenceman.

“Schaefer is just the complete package, McKeen’s Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, explained. “A future perennial all-star who can play in all situations and be your future captain. This is someone you can build your franchise around.”

Misa, one of nine players to be granted exceptional status by Hockey Canada, elevated his game to new levels in his third season with the Saginaw Spirit. His 62 goals and 134 points are the most by a draft-eligible OHLer since Patrick Kane (62 goals and 145 points in 2006-07).

“Misa is such a dynamic and exciting offensive player. But what’s underrated is the fact that he has a pro frame and made significant gains off the puck this year, sliding back to center,” said Otten.

Beyond Schaefer and Misa, it could be a matter of personal preference or positional need for the remaining lottery picks.

“The sense we get from our scouts and people in the industry is that this class is viewed as heavily tiered,” explained Otten. “There is a group of 10-12 guys at the top. Then, a small group of 10 or so are locked in as first-rounders. After that? It could be the Wild West.”

This is reflected in our top eight players not changing from our March ranking: Schaefer, Misa, Porter Martone, Caleb Desnoyers, James Hagens, Anton Frondell, Jackson Smith, and Victor Eklund.

Martone, our third-ranked prospect, is one of the draft’s premier playmakers. Standing at 6-foot-3, 207 pounds, he offers an enticing blend of high-end physical tools and has drawn comparisons to fellow Peterborough, ON native, Corey Perry. In his third season in the OHL, Martone broke the Brampton Steelheads single season record for assists (61) and points (98).

Rising two spots to fourth overall is Moncton Wildcats pivot Caleb Desnoyers. The 18-year-old led one of the most dominant QMJHL teams in recent memory and finished with nine goals and 30 points in 19 playoff contests.

“You have to appreciate his consistency this year in leading Moncton to a Q Championship. He’s such a detail-oriented player. This is a longtime pro who should provide serious versatility to his future coach,” said Otten.

Following Desnoyers in fifth spot is James Hagens, our top-ranked prospect in October. The Boston College centreman enjoyed an impressive freshman campaign in the NCAA, scoring at a point-per-game pace on the top line in college hockey and winning gold at the World Juniors. However, Hagens did not reach the individual heights many expected of him this year, and as a result, slipped in our ranking.

Our sixth-ranked prospect, Anton Frondell, rounds out a run of three centers in a row, though it is not clear whether he will stick down the middle at the next level. The first half of the season was marred by injury for the Swede, as well as constant shifts between playing for Djurgardens men’s and J20 teams. He finished with the second highest points-per-game (0.86) by a draft-eligible player in Allsvenskan history, trailing only Elias Pettersson.

“Would we have liked to have seen him dominate the U18s? Sure. But we’re happier with how well he played in helping Djurgardens earn promotion back to the SHL,” explained Otten. “That should have more weight. He does so many of the little things well; things not consistently measured by offensive production.”

Jackson Smith of the Tri-City Americans is our seventh-ranked prospect. He led all WHL draft-eligible defenders with 11 goals, 43 assists, and 54 points this season and played on Canada’s top pairing as they won gold at the U18s last month.

Frondell’s teammate in Djurgardens, Victor Eklund, slots in two spots behind him in eighth. Despite a wiry frame, Eklund is at his most effective operating along the boards and below the dots. Like his brother William, Victor is a crafty winger with a tireless engine that has proven himself internationally and at the pro level in Sweden.

6-foot-5.75, 218-pound defenceman Radim Mrtka climbs eight spots from #17 in our preliminary ranking. Starting the season in Czechia, he flourished in Seattle following a November move to the WHL, posting three goals and 35 points in 43 contests.

Rounding out our top 10 is centreman Brady Martin. A fierce competitor equally as threatening in the corners as he is with the puck on his stick, the Soo Greyhounds star has shades of Tom Wilson and Brad Marchand in his game.

“I’ve been high on Martin all year. The rest of our Ontario scouts have been, too. The rest of our scouting team finally came around on him after his outstanding U18s performance,” explained Otten. “This is the kind of player built to be successful in the NHL playoffs, the kind of guy you win with.”

The McKeen's 2025 NHL Draft Guide will be available for download by subscribers next week, Friday, June 13th for release. If you are not a subscriber and would like a membership please link here. Subscribers can access our complete top 300 ranking here.

RANK	PLAYER	POS	HT/WT	DOB	NATION	TEAM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SV%)
1	Matthew Schaefer	D	6-2/185	5-Sep-07	Canada	Erie (OHL)	17	7	15	22	8
2	Michael Misa	C	6-1/185	16-Feb-07	Canada	Saginaw (OHL)	65	62	72	134	45
3	Porter Martone	RW	6-3/205	26-Oct-06	Canada	Brampton (OHL)	57	37	61	98	74
4	Caleb Desnoyers	C	6-2/180	11-Apr-07	Canada	Moncton (QMJHL)	56	35	49	84	39
5	James Hagens	C	5-10/175	3-Nov-06	USA	Boston College (HE)	37	11	26	37	24
6	Anton Frondell	C	6-1/195	7-May-07	Sweden	Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)	29	11	14	25	16
7	Jackson Smith	D	6-3/195	13-May-07	Canada	Tri-City (WHL)	68	11	43	54	48
8	Victor Eklund	RW	5-11/160	3-Oct-06	Sweden	Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)	42	19	12	31	37
9	Radim Mrtka	D	6-6/205	9-Jun-07	Czech	Seattle (WHL)	43	3	32	35	46
10	Brady Martin	C	6-0/180	16-Mar-07	Canada	Soo Greyhounds (OHL)	57	33	39	72	68
11	Jake O'Brien	C	6-2/170	16-Jun-07	Canada	Brantford (OHL)	66	32	66	98	18
12	Roger McQueen	C	6-5/195	2-Oct-06	Canada	Brandon (WHL)	17	10	10	20	40
13	Lynden Lakovic	LW	6-4/190	12-Dec-06	Canada	Moose Jaw (WHL)	47	27	31	58	4
14	Cullen Potter	C	5-10/170	10-Jan-07	USA	Arizona State (NCHC)	35	13	9	22	6
15	Kashawn Aitcheson	D	6-1/195	21-Sep-06	Canada	Barrie (OHL)	64	26	33	59	88
16	Justin Carbonneau	RW	6-1/190	25-Nov-06	Canada	Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)	62	46	43	89	61
17	Braeden Cootes	C	5-11/180	9-Feb-07	Canada	Seattle (WHL)	60	26	37	63	18
18	Sascha Boumedienne	D	6-1/175	17-Jan-07	Sweden	Boston University (HE)	40	3	10	13	33
19	Ben Kindel	C	5-10/175	19-Apr-07	Canada	Calgary (WHL)	65	35	64	99	39
20	Cameron Reid	D	6-0/190	8-Apr-07	Canada	Kitchener (OHL)	67	14	40	54	44
21	Carter Bear	LW	6-0/180	4-Nov-06	Canada	Everett (WHL)	56	40	42	82	77
22	Blake Fiddler	D	6-4/210	9-Jul-07	Canada	Edmonton (WHL)	64	10	23	33	36
23	Eric Nilson	C	5-11/155	11-May-07	Sweden	Djurgardens (Swe J20)	37	12	26	38	56
24	Jakob Ihs Wozniak	RW	6-3/185	1-Feb-07	Sweden	Lulea (Swe J20)	40	23	34	57	18
25	Logan Hensler	D	6-2/190	14-Oct-06	USA	Wisconsin (B1G)	32	2	10	12	27
26	Jack Murtagh	LW	6-1/200	22-Aug-07	USA	USN U18 (USDP)	47	20	26	46	32
27	Jack Nesbitt	C	6-4/185	12-Jan-07	Canada	Windsor (OHL)	65	25	39	64	74
28	Cole Reschny	C	5-10/185	6-Apr-07	Canada	Victoria (WHL)	62	26	66	92	44
29	Milton Gastrin	C	6-1/185	2-Jun-07	Sweden	MoDo Hockey (Swe J20)	40	18	24	42	18
30	Joshua Ravensbergen	G	6-5/190	27-Nov-06	Canada	Prince George (WHL)	51	33	13	3.00	0.901
31	Kurban Limatov	D	6-3/195	20-Mar-07	Russia	MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)	46	8	15	23	44
32	Bill Zonnon	RW	6-2/185	3-Oct-06	Canada	Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)	64	28	55	83	32

2025 NHL DRAFT: TOP 100 PLUS HONOURABLE MENTIONS – March edition – FOR SUBSCRIBERS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:34:18 +0000

Porter Mantone of the Brampton Steelheads. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2025 NHL DRAFT: TOP 32 – MARCH EDITION – Top 20 coming into focus with depth an issue with this class

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:24:13 +0000

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

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

RANK	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	HT/WT	DOB	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM
1	Matthew Schaefer	D	Erie (OHL)	6-2/180	5-Sep-07	17	7	15	22	8
2	Michael Misa	C	Saginaw (OHL)	6-1/185	16-Feb-07	62	59	67	126	45
3	James Hagens	C	Boston College (NCAA)	5-10/175	3-Nov-06	35	10	25	35	24
4	Porter Martone	RW	Brampton (OHL)	6-3/205	26-Oct-06	54	32	60	92	72
5	Jackson Smith	D	Tri-City (WHL)	6-3/195	13-May-07	65	7	41	48	46
6	Caleb Desnoyers	C	Moncton (QMJHL)	6-2/180	11-Apr-07	56	35	49	84	39
7	Victor Eklund	LW	Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)	5-11/160	3-Oct-06	42	19	12	31	37
8	Anton Frondell	C	Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)	6-1/195	7-May-07	29	11	14	25	16
9	Roger McQueen	C	Brandon (WHL)	6-5/195	2-Oct-06	14	9	9	18	29
10	Lynden Lakovic	LW	Moose Jaw (WHL)	6-4/190	12-Dec-06	45	24	31	55	4
11	Radim Mrtka	D	Seattle (WHL)	6-6/205	9-Jun-07	41	3	31	34	40
12	Brady Martin	C	Soo Greyhounds (OHL)	6-0/175	16-Mar-07	55	30	37	67	64
13	Jake O'Brien	C	Brantford (OHL)	6-2/170	16-Jun-07	64	32	64	96	18
14	Cullen Potter	C	Arizona State (NCAA)	5-10/170	10-Jan-07	34	13	9	22	6
15	Justin Carbonneau	RW	Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)	6-1/190	25-Nov-06	61	46	43	89	61
16	Kashawn Aitcheson	D	Barrie (OHL)	6-1/195	21-Sep-06	63	25	33	58	88
17	Cameron Reid	D	Kitchener (OHL)	6-0/190	8-Apr-07	66	14	39	53	44
18	Ben Kindel	C	Calgary (WHL)	5-10/175	19-Apr-07	62	34	64	98	39
19	Braeden Cootes	C	Seattle (WHL)	5-11/180	9-Feb-07	58	25	36	61	18
20	Carter Bear	LW	Everett (WHL)	6-0/180	4-Nov-06	56	40	42	82	77
21	Jack Murtagh	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	6-1/200	22-Aug-07	42	20	24	44	26
22	Cameron Schmidt	RW	Vancouver (WHL)	5-7/160	19-Jan-07	59	39	37	76	42
23	Malcolm Spence	LW	Erie (OHL)	6-1/200	22-Sep-06	62	32	38	70	55
24	Joshua Ravensbergen	G	Prince George (WHL)	6-5/190	27-Nov-06	50	33	12	2.93	0.903
25	Jack Nesbitt	C	Windsor (OHL)	6-4/185	12-Jan-07	63	24	39	63	72
26	Cole McKinney	C	USN U18 (USDP)	6-0/200	16-Mar-07	45	21	29	50	55
27	Eric Nilson	C	Djurgardens (Swe J20)	5-11/155	11-May-07	37	12	26	38	56
28	Logan Hensler	D	Wisconsin (NCAA)	6-2/190	14-Oct-06	32	2	10	12	27
29	Henry Brzustewicz	D	London (OHL)	6-2/200	9-Feb-07	65	10	29	39	73
30	Blake Fiddler	D	Edmonton (WHL)	6-4/210	9-Jul-07	62	9	22	31	36
31	Shane Vansaghi	RW	Michigan State (NCAA)	6-2/210	11-Oct-06	35	6	10	16	28
32	Bill Zonnon	C	Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL)	6-1/185	3-Oct-06	62	28	53	81	32

2025 NHL DRAFT: Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie Colts (OHL) – Detailed Scouting Report (Video + Grades)

Brock Otten — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:18:07 +0000

Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Kashawn Aitcheson

2025 NHL Draft Eligible

Position: D, Shoots: L

H/W: 6’1”, 198lbs

Date of Birth: 2006-09-21

If there is one thing that defines Aitcheson’s game, it’s physicality. It may be cliche, but he only knows one way to play. In all my years of covering the Ontario Hockey League and the NHL Draft, Aitcheson is one of the most physically intense blueliners I’ve seen come through the region. While that single characteristic may be his bread and butter, he has worked hard to become a highly effective two-way defender and it is for that reason why he is starting to receive consideration as a potential lottery selection this June. NHL Scouts see a player from yesteryears; a throwback.

Aitcheson broke on to the scouting landscape last year after he was forced to step up to cover the injury of Beau Akey. After playing sparingly as a U17 player, the breakout came after he was given more ice time as a sophomore to fill the gap Akey left on the Barrie blueline. His strong play and growth over the year led to him playing a key defensive role for Canada at the 2024 U18’s, where he won gold.

Coming into this season, the narrative surrounded his perceived upside. Was he more than just a bottom pairing, physical, penalty killer? He struggled at times with his decision making last season and his play with the puck wavered. As a late born 2006, there was some concern that he lacked upside. However, Aitcheson put in the work this offseason and has returned to Barrie a different player; one who has become one of the best two-way defenders in the OHL. This has altered that narrative. The one thing you really want to see from later born eligibles, playing in their (often) third CHL seasons, is growth. Aitcheson has shown that.

Physically, Aitcheson never misses an opportunity to set the tone. Look at this year’s inaugural OHL Top Prospect’s Game. There was some concern that this exhibition event would lack the intensity needed to truly assess players. Insert Aitcheson, who demolished Michael Misa with an open ice hit in the first period, leading to an incredibly physical and chippy game. Aitcheson makes opposing players work for every inch of ice; he keeps you honest. For as physical as he is, he’s actually really improved his discipline and timing this year. He’s going to take penalties; it’s inevitable given the style of game he plays. However, he’s largely prevented himself from crossing the line and he has played a more composed physical game this season, chasing the hit less and incorporating better stick placement and positioning to be less reliant on physicality.

Offensively, Aitcheson’s game flows through his huge point shot and ability to find space in the offensive zone. He can really rifle the puck and it’s no fluke that he finds himself third in the OHL in defenseman goal scoring behind Zayne Parekh and Sam Dickinson (as of writing this). However, Aitcheson can also be effective in transition, both by leading the charge and by jumping up in the play. His skating has improved, and his decision making has improved, leading to him becoming a more consistent offensive contributor without putting his team at risk.

Is he a high skill guy? No. Don’t expect to see Aitcheson dangling through the neutral zone at the NHL level. He’ll need to learn to simplify his game further at the higher levels to continue to refine his puck management. However, the steps taken this year are encouraging and make me believe that he can be a moderate point producer at the NHL level to match his defensive effectiveness. It’s easy to see him anchoring a penalty killing unit and becoming an NHL coach’s go-to defender defensively. It’s also possible that he could play on a secondary powerplay unit as a triggerman. As the perception of his upside changes in the eyes of scouts, look for Aitcheson to continue to push up draft boards this year.

Skating

Aitcheson skates well in straight lines, in fact his speed and explosiveness have improved a lot since last season. This is allowing him to be more aggressive offensively, as he can break free of backcheckers and push through defenders in the neutral zone. He has elongated his stride and added power to his pushes, making his speed bursts more sustainable. For this reason, Aitcheson is dangerous attacking in straight lines.

As far as transitions go, Aitcheson is best described as average. He switches from backward to forward straight fairly efficiently, allowing him to be first to retrievals or to pick up and stay with attackers. He’s not the most explosive in his turns, but with an active stick and his aggressive approach, it rarely hurts him.

Where Aitcheson can struggle is with his lateral quickness and agility. He can get caught standing still at times when defending in transition, allowing attackers to get by him. Additionally, it limits his creativity and escapability when running point in the offensive zone. He’s learned to cope by making quick decisions (even if they’re safe) and by finding soft spots in coverage without the puck, but at the next level this could limit his offensive upside without improvement.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-1-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_27_37_-_27_57.mp4

From the U18’s last year, we see Aitcheson struggle to build speed out of his own zone, with some shorter, choppier strides.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-2-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_18_20_-_18_32.mp4

Another clip from last year, Aitcheson fails to build enough speed to be able to attack one on one and is kept to the perimeter.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-3-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_12_6_-_12_18.mp4

See the noticeable difference in Aitcheson’s stride this year, as he picks up speed quickly out of a stand still to help create a two on one.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-4-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_overtime_0_28_-_0_45.mp4

A good example of Aitcheson’s overall skating ability here. Not the cleanest cross over as he tries to push to cover space, fighting through contact that knocks him off balance. However, he builds enough speed to apply pressure, then heads the other way on a two on none, scoring the game winner.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-5-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_10_11_-_10_28.mp4

Another quick burst allows Aitcheson to get in deep and make a dangerous slot pass. The pass isn’t converted and Aitcheson hustles on the backcheck, showing his recovery speed.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-6-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_30_36_-_30_48.mp4

We see the limitations in Aitcheson’s lateral quickness and ability to change direction. He tries to quickly push off his edges to evade the stick check, but isn’t able to and the result is a turnover.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-7-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_12_16_-_12_28.mp4

Aitcheson quickly shifts his focus defensively to cover the drop pass and is able to stay with Mike Levin of the IceDogs, eventually forcing a turnover.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKATING-8-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_35_13_-_35_26.mp4

However, here Aitcheson struggles to keep up with the shifty Luca Pinelli, as he gets caught standing still and is beaten to the outside, leading to a goal.

Grade: 50

Shot

Aitcheson has such advanced scoring ability for a draft eligible defender. He has a lot of tricks in his bag. This is precisely why I expect that his scoring ability could translate to the higher levels.

His favourite spot is the right half wall on the powerplay (his off side). He routinely sets up shop there or slides down, setting up for the one timer. His one timer mechanics are terrific. He consistently squares to the net and gets his feet behind his shot, showing off good hands as he cleanly rips off shots. He also loves to use the one timer at the top of the slot, often as the trailer in transition.

Aitcheson also has a heavy wrist shot that he can use when open in the slot. He can toe drag to create space and has great accuracy, often disguising his release before picking a corner.

When under pressure, he just tries to get pucks to the net using a quick snap shot. However, this is rarely utilized because often, under pressure, Aitcheson opts for a safer play by simply sending pucks deep into the corners, hoping a teammate can re-establish possession. For this reason, he rarely has shots blocked and does a great job with shot selection.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHOT-1-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_37_35_-_37_47.mp4

Aitcheson’s office on the powerplay. Hammer time from the right half wall.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHOT-2-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_29_59_-_30_11.mp4

Not exactly the most well-placed shot of Aitcheson’s, as he was just trying to get all of it on net with Ryerson Leenders scrambling. However, it’s a good example of how cleanly he one-times pucks.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHOT-3-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_8_4_-_8_21.mp4

Great play on the forecheck by Aitcheson, as he pinches to help force a turnover. Then, watch as he gets himself squared for the one timer and absolutely rips it under pressure.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHOT-4-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_38_25_-_38_37.mp4

Time and space? Let’s rip a wrister.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SHOT-5-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_24_57_-_25_9.mp4

One of those rare instances where Aitcheson simply just tries to get the puck on net with a quick snapper. This leads to a goal as it finds its way through traffic.

Grade: 55

Skills

Aitcheson has really worked to simplify his game this year and it’s done wonders for his consistency and effectiveness as a two-way player. Last season, turnovers and poor reads were too prevalent as he tried to force passes or beat pressure head on. This year, he has worked to limit his turnovers, especially in the defensive zone.

How has he achieved that? By learning that not every touch has to be magical; again, keeping things simple. If he has time in the offensive zone, he’ll look to attack in straight lines and lug the puck up the ice, or he’ll find a teammate for an exit. If he’s pressured? He’ll chip the puck to less dangerous space and rely on his teammates to secure it. He understands the limitations of his game as an offensive player, that his feet and hands are not exceptionally quick, and that means he’s going to have to look to keep things simple and make higher percentage plays with the puck.

That said, Aitcheson has really improved his carrying ability and confidence in doing so this season. He doesn’t take a ton of chances, but when he does, they often create prime scoring opportunities because of his ability to protect the puck and improved handling ability at full speed. When the game slows down, he’s less effective as a skilled player because he doesn’t have that consistent ability to escape small area pressure with his feet and hands. It’s rare to see him try to work inside, coming off the wall or the point. Once inside the offensive zone, it’s about playing the puck to space, getting shots on net, and working off the puck to become a passing option.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-1-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_overtime_0_17_-_0_39.mp4

Skilled finish by Aitcheson to win it in overtime. We see his improved breakaway speed, then he fights through the hook to finish things off on the backhand.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-2-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_22_5_-_22_17.mp4

Toe drag, then the snipe.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-3-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_12_34_-_12_51.mp4

Skilled set up in transition by Aitcheson. Love how he drives the middle after passing off, then corrals a tough return pass and shows great patience/poise to find Bode Stewart for the goal.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-4-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_4_14_-_4_26.mp4

One of the few instances you’ll see of Aitcheson making a skilled play to start the breakout with his feet. With a quick move he helps to create a three on two.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-5-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_35_45_-_35_57.mp4

When his time and space gets taken away, this is typically what you’ll see from Aitcheson, a chip out, although he’s usually quite good about avoiding icings.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-6-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_18_52_-_19_4.mp4

The only clip I could find from the entire season of Aitcheson trying to make a move from his office on the powerplay, rather than a shot. But, plays like this will be key for him as he moves to the pro level, when defenders are quicker at taking away his shooting lane.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-7-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_30_28_-_30_40.mp4

As mentioned, Aitcheson doesn’t really possess the hands to consistently escape pressure to get to the inside. His game is predicated by quick decision making, transition play, and off puck support.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SKILLS-8-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_16_59_-_17_11.mp4

Good pinch to keep the play alive, but then Aitcheson gives the puck away trying to work to the inside again.

Grade: 50

Smarts

It’s probably best to split this description between offense, defense, and transition play.

Defensively, Aitcheson’s physicality is his bread and butter, but he’s become less reliant on it this year to be a defensive stalwart. His stick placement and positioning have greatly improved, which means that he is, usually, chasing the play less. He can still have a tendency to puck watch and get caught standing still, but he largely takes control when on the ice and rarely allows the puck or the play to get to the inside.

With the puck in the defensive zone, as mentioned, he has cut down his turnovers by having better scanning habits and keeping things simple. Let’s call it improved risk management. You’ve got time and space? Skate with the puck or attempt a higher risk stretch pass. You’ve got limited time and space? Chip the puck to space and fight to earn possession or rely on teammates to make a play.

Offensively, he’s been great in transition and inside the offensive zone. His awareness of spacing and ability to work off the puck is impressive. He times cuts well. He glides into spots. He fills gaps and space to become a passing option. All of this, largely, helps to explain his extreme goal scoring numbers this season; he is an offensive weapon without the puck in the offensive zone.

Additionally, he’s shown more with the puck, exhibiting greater patience and poise. He’ll look to draw in pressure before passing off and he isn’t always thinking shoot first, despite owning a heavy shot. Usually, under pressure, he’ll get pucks in deep or try to get a quick shot to the net, however, when given time and space, he will look to get pucks to the middle and try to find a seam with a pass.

The overall growth in this area (“smarts” overall) is the reason why we’re talking about Aitcheson as a potential lottery pick this year.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-1-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_8_56_-_9_8.mp4

Great defensive play by Aitcheson as he breaks up the two on one.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-2-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_8_19_-_8_36.mp4

Aitcheson’s defensive zone work in a nutshell. Hold off pressure and play the puck into space. Then he remains aggressive and re-secures possession, this time starting the breakout effectively.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-3-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_14_23_-_14_35.mp4

Aitcheson remains composed here as his initial exit attempt is denied, but he keeps his head up and makes a great stretch pass that creates an odd man advantage.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-4-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_15_16_-_15_28.mp4

Fantastic read by Aitcheson without the puck as he cuts to the net once the defender puts his back to him, then he drifts into the slot for the perfectly timed one timer goal.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-5-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_1_8_-_1_30.mp4

Another really smart read, as Aitcheson drifts into his office on the powerplay, the right half wall. Love how he stays with the play to finish it off, a clear example of his high compete level. The equivalent of a competitive NBA’er who consistently follows his misses for offensive rebounds.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-6-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_2_27_-_2_44.mp4

Aitcheson showing off his vision and passing precision, as he picks up a loose puck, keeps his head up and finds Riley Pattterson for the tap in.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-7-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_9_52_-_10_4.mp4

One of the few poor plays with the puck by Aitcheson in the defensive zone this year. These were the types of plays he made last year, but has worked to remove from his game this year.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-8-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_2_8_-_2_21.mp4

Here’s an example from last year about what I’m talking about. Lots of clips similar to this. Thankfully, again, these have been way less frequent this season.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-9-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_21_12_-_21_25.mp4

An instance of Aitcheson puck watching and following the play, rather than finding his place in coverage. These happen from time to time. It’s a matter of focus and trust.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-10-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_27_17_-_27_30.mp4

Another example of puck watching.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SMARTS-11-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_32_6_-_32_19.mp4

And…again. You can see Aitcheson just isn’t able to process quickly enough how he wants to defend the situation. He can become too focused on dictating communication commands, rather than simply making plays.

Grade: 55

Physicality/Compete

The heart and soul of Aitcheson’s game and what will get him to the NHL. This is a highly competitive young man. His physicality knows no bounds. He steps up at the offensive blueline, in the neutral zone, and at his own blueline to stop players in their tracks. He is aggressive along the wall and will hit and pin to ensure that he secures possession. He defends the net front with forcefulness. He is even active on the forecheck at times, pinching to help keep pucks in by laying the body.

Aitcheson will also look to block shots, clogging up the middle to prevent pucks from getting through to the net. His form isn’t the greatest, as he often remains too upright, but there’s a fearlessness to his approach.

I think what is most impressive is that Aitcheson has refined his approach to take less penalties this year. Even as one of the most physical players in the OHL, he finds himself outside the top 15 in penalty minutes, whereas last year, he was right near the top. He’s picking better spots to apply his physicality and as such, isn’t as consistently out of position and forced to take penalties. He’s also hitting cleaner and not putting himself or others at risk.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-1A-Aitcheson-physicality-part-one.mp4

The Aitcheson “Rock em, Sock em” mix part one.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-1B-Aitcheson-physicality-part-two.mp4

The Aitcheson “Rock em, Sock em” mix part two.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-2-kashawn_aitcheson_-_1st_period_3_39_-_3_52.mp4

From last year’s U18’s. A great example of Aitcheson trying to set the tone physically. First shift in a big game versus Sweden and he’s looking to make a big hit.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-3-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_13_35_-_13_57.mp4

Aitcheson helps blow up the Niagara attack, then he joins the rush as a trailer, with his shot and subsequent rebound helping to set up the goal. It’s plays like this that make Aitcheson so dangerous as a two-way threat.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-4-kashawn_aitcheson_-_3rd_period_6_34_-_6_51.mp4

Another well timed and aggressive pinch by Aitcheson helps to force a turnover, then he drifts into the slot for the one timer, which generates a rebound and goal.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-5-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_17_56_-_18_8.mp4

Aitcheson plays through the contact to make a play on the puck that leads to a quality scoring chance in the slot.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PHYSICAL-6-kashawn_aitcheson_-_2nd_period_5_1_-_5_13.mp4

Again, Aitcheson plays through the contact to start the breakout. The stick check doesn’t even slow him down, a testament to his strength on the puck.

Grade: 65

OFP: 54.75

A note on the 20-80 scale used above. We look at five attributes (skating, shooting, puck skills, hockey IQ and physicality) for skaters and six for goalies (athleticism/quickness, compete/temperament, vision/play reading, technique/style, rebound control and puck handling). Each individual attribute is graded along the 20-80 scales, which includes half-grades. The idea is that a projection of 50 in a given attribute meant that our observer believed that the player could get to roughly NHL average at that attribute at maturity.

2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 64 + Honourable Mentions – PRE-WJC

Brock Otten — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:10:07 +0000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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