Luka Radivojevič – McKeen's Hockey

2026 NHL DRAFT: SECOND CHANCES PART TWO – USA – Overage Draft Eligible Prospects

Director of Scouting Brock Otten, Linc Zdancewicz, Jamison Derksen, Kyle Pereira — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:37 +0000

In a normal year, scouting hockey is marred by imperfection. Every year high end players get skipped over at the NHL draft for various reasons. Maybe they suffered through injuries. Maybe their team struggled, and it prevented scouts from getting a good read on them. Maybe their team was too good, forcing them down the depth chart with limited minutes and exposure opportunities. Or...maybe they just were not good enough. But thankfully human development is nonlinear and therefore unpredictable. Teenage hockey players are far from a finished product on the ice as their games mature just as the rest of their body and mind do. That is why it is critical to track players as they move through their second and third years of draft eligibility (or fourth years of eligibility for some European players).

For those unfamiliar, North American players with birth dates from January 1st to September 15th, will be eligible for three NHL drafts. Players with birth dates from September 16th to December 31st, will be eligible for two NHL drafts. And for European players (in European leagues), extend that eligibility by one year in both cases. In the last decade, NHL scouts have increased the rate with which they are selecting “re-entry” candidates, or players previously passed over. Contract limits have made it critical for teams to spread out where they select players from, in addition to their age. This has made second- and third-year eligible U.S. and European based players especially attractive. Additionally, CHL players may now be deemed more “intriguing” because of the altered NCAA eligibility rules. NHL teams can draft overage players and retain their rights after they go to College for a few years, expanding their signing and development window. However, these players have had a lot of success in recent years too. Look around the league and you see these players everywhere. For example, Former Calgary Flames, now Utah Mammoth standout defender Mackenzie Weegar was one. Ottawa Senators standout forward Drake Batherson was one. So too was Winnipeg Jets starter Connor Hellebuyck.

Last year, ten “re-entry” candidates went in the top four rounds: Charlie Cerrato, Francesco Dell’Elce, Bryce Pickford, Kristian Epperson, Julius Sumpf, Trenten Bennett, Benjamin Rautianinen, Yegor Borikov, Caeden Herrington, and Zack Sharp. Cerrato was taken inside the top 50. In our “second chances” article last year (Part 1): (Part 2): (Part 3): We wrote about nine of those ten. In total there were 37 taken, which is a bit lower than the recent trend of other drafts (roughly about 20% of all players selected). I would suspect that bounces back this year. Additionally, of those 37, we identified and wrote about 22 (well over half of them) in our aforementioned second chances series. Just like in previous editions of this annual report, we aim to identify more.

In 2026, we have some very interesting candidates. Edmonton Oil Kings defender Ethan MacKenzie was a solid contributor for Canada’s WJC team this past year. Brandon Wheat Kings forward Joby Baumuller has been among the WHL’s leading goal scorers all year. Prince Albert netminder Michal Orsulak has been among the best goaltenders in the CHL this year. Moncton winger Niko Tournas has been among the QMJHL’s leading goal scorers all year. Russian defenseman Alexander Sapozhinkov is a massive blueliner who has broken out in the MHL and earned a KHL look. This article intends to highlight them and many other candidates who could be part of that 20% this year.

This is part two of the series, putting the spotlight on those re-entries available from leagues based out of the United States. - Brock Otten

USHL

Zach Wooten.

Zach Wooten - Center - Green Bay

Basically, out of nowhere, Zach Wooten has stepped up and quadrupled his point production from his last season with Green Bay. First and foremost, his shot is incredible. Possessing a quick release, accuracy, and nearly 30 goals in his bag, Wooten is a sniper and takes command of the offensive zone and power play. His threat as a shooter also makes him a good passer, being able to fake out defenders and create passing lanes for his teammates. This growth as an offensive threat will be greatly welcomed by the University of Wisconsin next year. Defensively, he is generally okay, he ties up opponents well and is good at chasing down opponents close to him, but his overall involvement and physicality aren’t overly special. Though he has not been listed in Central Scouting’s Mid-Season rankings, he will get a good look sometime later in the draft. Wooten will likely be a college standout who signs as a free agent in a couple of years, with a chance of making an NHL roster. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Justin Graf - Wing - Cedar Rapids

The younger brother of Sharks forward (and UDFA) Collin Graf, Justin was completely off the radar for draft boards in his initial season of eligibility, where he played high school prep hockey. His immediate success has grabbed attention in his D+1 season since joining Cedar Rapids in the USHL, where he has hovered around a point per game. There’s a lot to like about Graf’s offensive game, which is why he leads the RoughRiders in ice time on the man-advantage. As a playmaker, he is patient and crafty, often delaying or using cutbacks to find the perfect passing lane. As a scorer, though he would be considered average as a shooter, Graf has a useful one-timer and is good at burying rebounds. He is also excellent at finding and creating space, especially on the rush. An area for improvement right now is remaining consistently engaged away from the puck, right now his effort seems to ebb and flow a bit with offensive opportunities. A third liner that provides offense is within the range of outcomes for Graf as a pro. (Jamison Derksen)

Shayne Gould - Defense - Sioux City

Despite being undersized at 5’9, Shayne Gould is an exciting offensive defenseman with a great deceptive ability to run a USHL blue line. His low hand on his stick is very low, so low in fact, you can never tell when he will fire a powerful wrister or when he will completely fool you with a pass. Gould also has fantastic hands that allow him to activate lower in the offensive zone and create highlight reel plays. His deceptiveness as a stick handler has made him a very effective puck carrier, especially in transition, though I would want to see his overall decision-making in the neutral zone improve. He is quite averse to physicality, but who wouldn't at 5’9. Gould is committed to UConn and will continue to develop a dangerous offensive game there, though I don’t see enough NHL upside to warrant him being drafted as of yet. An exciting collegiate for sure, but not enough of a battler in his two-way game, but that could change in the NCAA. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Masun Fleece - Wing - Dubuque

After splitting time between the USHL and BCHL last season, Masun Fleece played his entire season with Dubuque in the USHL this year and produced very well. Fleece is quick, chopping his feet to bear down on opposing defenders on the forecheck and when attacking the net on zone entries. Despite being relatively short, he is hard to knock off the puck, partially due to being stronger, but also due to his great puck control and stick handling. Fleece fits the mold of this Dubuque team: fast, annoying in the neutral zone, and relentless. He is still a bit buck-wild when he skates around the ice and can get caught biting too much, but a high motor is almost always seen as a good thing. His main drawbacks stem from his role, he will not be a driver on any line and will mainly operate as a support player. Fleece is committed to Maine in the coming future, and I hope they can round out his overall game as they have done for similar players like Justin Poirier and Miguel Marques. He will find success on an NHL lineup, should everything break right, as a bottom-six energy forward, forechecking, trying to catch defensemen off guard, and playing a fast-paced game. I would not be shocked if a team takes a chance on him this time around. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Graham Jones - Center - Fargo

Jones, in his second year of eligibility, is looking to make his case for being selected in the 2026 class. Previously he played in the USHS ranks with Shattuck St. Mary’s where he was a standout. He had a brief stint in the USHL, but it wasn’t enough for NHL scouts. This year, he played the whole year in Fargo and performed well. His motor is excellent, always moving his feet. His shot is also pretty heavy, and he displays a high-end IQ that allows him to get to the dangerous areas of the ice consistently. However, his frame is an issue, at 5’8” and 165 pounds. Slated to play in the NCAA in the 2027-28 season with Boston College, he has time to bulk up and improve his overall game to overcome the obstacles set by his smaller stature. He is worth a look in the mid-to-late rounds, but NHL teams might pause looking at his size, again. (Kyle Pereira)

Nikolas Young - Defense - Lincoln

Nikolas Young has seemingly come out of nowhere into a huge role on the Lincoln Stars’ blueline this season. Last year, Young rarely saw the ice on the man-advantage and was fourth among Lincoln blueliners in shorthanded ice time. This season however, the newly named captain leads the team in icetime on the powerplay and the penalty kill, while also being leaned on heavily at five on five. The 6’0” defender is competitive in battles and has a strong stick defensively. He relies on efficient positioning as he has some issues with footspeed and can get exposed if he chases instead of letting the play come to him. With the puck on his stick, Young keeps his head up and usually makes the right pass, though he doesn’t really create offense at this point. He will need to improve his footspeed, but a team may want to use a late pick on him as a potential bottom-pair contributor. (Jamison Derksen)

Ryland Randle - Defense - Des Moines

Randle, a double over-ager defender, played his first and second year of eligibility in the USHS ranks with Cushing Academy. This season was his first in the USHL, where he has produced moderately well. He’s a very steady defender, who does not possess any true standout trait. He plays with solid pace and a great feel with and without the puck. Randle possesses a strong first pass to transition up ice and takes what the opposition gives him in the offensive end. He keeps things mostly simple, however. Defensively, he knows where to be, possesses a strong stick, and gaps up quite well against the rush. However, he has a smaller frame for a defender at 5’10” and being a double over-ager in his first USHL season, has the odds stacked against him. He has good anticipation and hockey IQ that could be worth a late-round swing, but he’s likely an NCAA undrafted signing, at best, in the future. (Kyle Pereira)

Carl Axelsson - Goaltender - Muskegon

After a really rough fall of 2024, Carl Axelsson was sent to the NAHL to recapture the potential he showed over in Sweden, and with Muskegon, he has definitely captured something special. He has been the solid starter Muskegon has needed for a proper Clark Cup title defense, excelling on one-on-one chances and down low. Axelsson is very quick to cover up and overall has very good positioning. His play recognition and rebound control have been fine, but he has made massive improvements over what they were last season. I still have some concerns over his glove hand and overall athleticism, but the tools are there for him to improve as he seeks to move to the college level at Minnesota-Duluth next season. He should get some consideration to be drafted this time around; however, he was not listed in the most recent Central Scouting Rankings of NA Goalies, so take that with a grain of salt. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Roberto Leonardo Henriquez - Goaltender - Green Bay

Roberto Leonardo Henriquez, whose father is from the Dominican Republic, was born in Slovakia and grew up playing on larger European ice surfaces, before coming to North America in 2024/25. Henriquez stepped into the NAHL and dominated, quickly moving up to Green Bay in the USHL, where there were some growing pains. He was ranked #264 by McKeen’s in the 2025 NHL Draft Guide, largely due to his impressive athleticism, but he is otherwise a quite raw prospect at this point. This season, Henriquez has been near the top of most USHL goaltending stats with an impressive 2.20 GAA and .921 SV%. Still, his positioning is an issue, and he can overcommit to pucks at times, relying too much on his quickness to recover for rebounds or back-door plays. At 6’2”, he can’t really afford to get caught out of position as often as he does, but if he can tighten up his positioning, there is a solid puckstopper here. (Jamison Derksen)

Cole Tuminaro - Defense - Chicago

Tuminaro missed nearly his entire draft year with an injury and has bounced back well with the Chicago Steel this year. He’s been ranked highly by NHL Central Scouting, and he earned a spot on the U.S.’ WJAC roster. Tuminaro is best described as a throwback defender. He is one mean customer. He is suffocating physically and he’s had to fight several times this year in response to some of his big hits. At 6’4, 230lbs, he’s also extremely intimidating. When you compare him to his first year in the USHL with Sioux City, his skating has improved by leaps and bounds. He’s actually quite agile for a defender his size, showing strong pivoting ability. His lateral quickness and backwards stride are also solid, making him a very difficult player for opposing USHL forwards to beat one on one. He doesn’t generate significant power in his forward stride; he’s a bit lumbering in that regard, but the overall skating profile is more than adequate for the kind of game he plays. Offensively, he actually shows some intriguing flashes of upside. He can escape the forecheck and he can slip pressure inside the offensive zone. Can this part of his game be developed further at Cornell? Regardless, Tuminaro has intriguing upside as a physical, stay at home defender from the right side. (Brock Otten)

Ajay White - Goaltender - Fargo

Ajay White, who went undrafted in 2024 and 2025, is giving one last bid at being selected in 2026. In the 2023-24 season, he played largely in the NAHL, where he held a .910 SV% and a 2.90 GAA. But when he got two USHL games that season, he struggled, with a .875 SV% and a 3.51 GAA. The following season, playing in the USHL for 24 games, where he once again struggled. He recorded an .899 SV% and 2.78 GAA. This season, however, he has bounced back. In 40 games, White recorded a .905 SV% and a 2.48 GAA, eclipsing the .900 SV% mark for the first time in the USHL. He’s currently committed to play at the University of St. Thomas next season. White is an interesting case. It’s unlikely he gets selected, as his overall statistical improvement isn’t substantial enough to truly warrant a very big look from NHL teams. However, his maturity is clear in how mechanically sound he is in the crease. His rebound control is also another example of his maturity, as he does a very good job of keeping his rebounds from entering dangerous spots. However, one of his flaws comes down to his lack of explosive lateral agility and almost panicky movements. He can over-set or over-push on certain shots, and it’s because of those happy feet and panic movements putting him out of position. Depending on how he develops in the NCAA, there’s a world where he can become an AHL goaltender, but there’s not a ton of NHL upside with White. (Kyle Pereira)

Alan Lendak - Goaltender - Des Moines

Lendak, who was passed over in the last two drafts, is another over-ager goaltender pushing for an NHL draft selection in his last year of eligibility. In his first year of eligibility in 2023-24, he played in Slovakia, primarily playing in Slovakia’s U20 ranks. Playing for two different teams, Lendak recorded a .938 SV% and 1.96 GAA, but would not have his name called. The following season, he came overseas and played for the Fargo Force in the USHL, where he posted a .895 SV% and 2.97 GAA across 40 games, a significant regression from his Slovakia U20 numbers. This season, he split between Fargo and the Des Moines Buccaneers, totalling 30 games, a .913 SV% and a 2.23 GAA. With a much improved statline, Lendak is making a case to be selected this year. Lendak’s biggest and most noticeable strength is his flexibility. It’s almost Andrei Vasilevskiy-esque with how he contorts his body at times to make difficult, spread-eagle saves. But while he can make some of those crazy, game-changing saves, he also has some kinks to iron out. His positioning is flawed, as he doesn’t track the puck very well, leading to his angles being off. Paired with his crouched stance, making himself look a bit smaller in the net with his already below-average frame at 6’1”, it leads to holes in the top corners. He has given up a lot of those goals where, had he been slightly better positioned, would have likely been an easier save to make. Ultimately, he makes saves more difficult on himself. But with NHL coaching and a more focused development plan, there’s upside here. He has those athletic, game-changing abilities in his arsenal, and some refinement to the more detailed parts of his game could go a long way into the development of an NHL-caliber goalie. It’s a long shot, but it’s possible. (Kyle Pereira)

Thomas Zocco - Center - Sioux Falls

As of writing this towards the end of the USHL regular season, Zocco finds himself in the top five of league scoring as a league rookie after transferring from the BCHL. Zocco’s offensive success comes from three things: high end skill, high end sense, and a competitive drive. He routinely carves up the neutral zone, keeps plays alive in the offensive zone, or creates advantages with his hands; he’s a skating highlight reel. He’s also a hard worker who works to earn his touches and is aggressive in pursuit of the puck. Bottom line, he’s a difference maker at the junior level. A Merrimack commit, Zocco projects as an offensive catalyst at the NCAA level too. However, his projection beyond that gets murky because he’s undersized and not a terrific skater. He has shorter, choppy strides that limit his speed, power, and ability to quickly change direction. He relies on his hands at this level, but at higher levels, that won’t be enough. Even with outstanding offensive development over the last few years, Zocco remains a draft long shot because of some physical and athletic limitations. NHL teams are likely to want to see how his game translates to the NCAA level first. (Brock Otten)

Matthew Grimes - Defense - Sioux Falls

With great speed and very solid hands, Matthew Grimes is an offensive defenseman that many should keep an eye on going into this draft cycle as a re-entry. His overall skating is excellent, he gets a ton of speed in a straight line, making him a deadly puck carrier. Additionally, he naturally has good gap control when defending the rush, being very quick to react to plays and loose pucks. Grimes has been so effective in transition, using his stick handling and quick decision-making to generate lateral space and make defenders miss. His speed during these rush chances is truly difference making at the USHL level. He has a tendency to do too much with the puck, but overall makes good offensive reads on the rush, and when activating in the offensive zone. Defensively, he shows average compete, getting his stick in lanes but not overall impacting the game on the wall physically. Grimes has a ton of potential to hop into a Minnesota lineup and be a play driver on their back end. He has shown enough of a success rate in the offensive and neutral zones that he would shock no one going as early as the 3rd-4th round. (Linc Zdancewicz)

NCAA

10/19/2024 Michigan Ice Hockey vs. St. Cloud State at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, MI on October 19, 2024.

Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen - Defense - Michigan

Being a reliable two-way defenseman who shows flashes of being very useful in many different situations, and a skater who will definitely not be passed up in the draft a second time. Rhéaume-Mullen activates so well in the offensive zone, constantly moving along the blueline and wall to become an option for the offense-heavy Wolverines this season. His ability to join and support the rush adds another layer of deadliness to any transition. Additionally, he does well to back check with his quick feet when he does get too aggressive. Rhéaume-Mullen’s skating has improved a lot from last season, bettering his play in the defensive zone and as a puck carrier overall. He still struggles to make an impact physically to deter opponents and is still not potent enough offensively to run a power play, but Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen has shown more than enough to warrant a selection in the mid-to-late rounds of this draft. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Jack Galanek - Center - UMass

Sitting only behind Jack Musa and Vaclav Nestrasil, Freshman Jack Galanek has been a big reason why UMass has had such a successful season this year. He is a gritty center with a knack for being a connecter in the neutral and offensive zones, getting into open space, and quickly passing to generate chances. Galanek has a high motor but nothing more than a solid skater with an average level of physicality. His success rate in the faceoff dot has been notable and a key factor in why UMass has put him in every situation. He plays a unique role for any squad and should be an excellent supporting center to UMass for at least another year until he is ready for the AHL. As for his NHL upside, it is a bit in question outside of a 4th line role, but he could play his way into a lineup with his grit. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Bobby Cowan - Wing - Western Michigan

Bobby Cowan has been on a steady upward trajectory that should continue with him hopefully getting drafted this spring. In ‘23/24, Cowan was a key cog in Edina High’s Minnesota State Championship team, but wasn’t able to provide much offense (just 6 points in 20 games) when he joined Omaha in the USHL. An offseason trade saw him go to the Madison Capitols where he began to flourish offensively, finishing his draft season with 51 points. Despite his lack of size (Cowan checks in at 5’10”), Cowan does not shy away from the physical side of the game. His work ethic, dangerous shot, and above-average skill were enough for McKeen’s to rank him #236 in the 2025 NHL Draft Guide, but his average skating was likely the sticking point for him not being selected. This year as a freshman with Western Michigan, he has improved his speed and that has greatly improved his outlook as a pro. It’s easy to see a third line winger with some scoring punch as the outcome for Cowan. (Jamison Derksen)

Lukas Peterson - Defense - Maine

A smaller defender who started the year really well with Maine as a freshman, but lost steam in the second half of the year from a production standpoint. We wrote about Peterson in this piece last year after a strong USHL year with Green Bay. He’s a creative and mobile offensive defender who can quarterback the power play thanks to his ability to walk the line and escape pressure. He’s also not a liability defensively because he will compete physically, even if he’s not always successful in high traffic areas. But would that be the case at the NHL level? There’s no question that Peterson possesses offensive upside, but NHL teams may continue to take a wait and see approach with him to see how his game develops at the NCAA level. If he ends up becoming one of the more efficient offensive defenders in college, he could end up on the free agent radar. (Brock Otten)

Caton Ryan - Wing - Cornell

Caton Ryan is someone that made it onto the radar of some scouts (McKeen’s had him #282) in the 2023/24 Draft cycle but was tough to truly get a handle on due to his vastly inferior competition in the CCHL in his draft year. He moved on to the BCHL last season, where he racked up 42 points in 44 games with the Penticton Vees, before joining Cornell this season and repeating his near point-per-game pace as a freshman. Ryan’s smooth skating and deadly shot make him very dangerous offensively, particularly on the rush and on the man-advantage. As a playmaker, he’s more of a connector than a creator, he’ll move the puck quickly and decisively but doesn’t really search for lanes, preferring to shoot instead. Though he has good pace and agility at top speed, his acceleration remains an issue that will need some work before turning pro. Given his steep development curve, there may be a middle-six winger here if everything breaks right for Ryan. (Jamison Derksen)

Luka Radivojevic - Defense - Boston College

Given his diminutive 5’9” stature, it isn’t the biggest surprise that Radivojevic was passed over in his first year of draft-eligibility, but the high-IQ, offensive blueliner still offers pro upside. Ranked #83 in Mckeen’s 2025 NHL Draft Guide, Radivojevic is an elusive skater with above-average playmaking ability, but his size is a significant hurdle defensively. His move to Boston College from the USHL this season has been good as he’s been forced to add muscle to defend against older, stronger opponents. It remains to be seen if Radivojevic will be able to carve out an NHL career after plenty of hype as a 16 and 17-year-old that sort of petered out during his draft year. After averaging half a point per game in the USHL at 17 and the NCAA at 18, is there enough offense to compensate for his shortcomings? Maybe given some continuity he finds another gear offensively as a sophomore at Boston College, along with getting a proper opportunity on the power play after being buried behind senior captain Lukas Gustafsson this season. He might make it to the NHL as a PP2 QB, or his size may end up limiting him to an AHL career. (Jamison Derksen)

Tobias Pitka - Center - Northern Michigan

Standing tall at 6’4, Tobias Pitka has used his size well for a Northern Michigan team that definitely needed something after only winning three games. He is a true power forward with the ability to annoy the living daylights out of opponents, putting body and stick on his man to take them out of the play. Pitka is a solid skater, with good inside edges, and draws good balance and power from his skates, however, his pace has been quite slow outside of tight spaces. Sometimes his effort is frustrating, more so due to a slow acceleration and a lack of quick feet when chasing down an open man in space. Pitka really improved a ton in his last two years in the BCHL, nearly going point-per-game last season. This year, despite missing some time, he finished second in points with 12 on one of the worst teams in the NCAA. His offensive game is not the strongest, but Pitka gets results when placed in front of the net. He may not get drafted, but I can see him signing as an NCAA free agent in a couple of years. (Linc Zdancewicz)

Cooper Cleaves - D - Dartmouth

Cleaves is a 6’4” shutdown blueliner that jumped from the BCHL to the USHL midseason last year and was an NCAA freshman this season with Dartmouth. He is a smooth skater, even if he isn’t the fastest, and uses his size well. He is very effective at killing rushes by using his long reach and taking away time and space quickly. Cleaves also uses his large frame to suffocate opponents physically. Cleaves is pretty limited offensively, and needs to improve his decision-making with the puck at times, but it’s his play without the puck that will be his calling card as a pro. It will be interesting to see if his offensive game is able to develop next year with a new d-partner, as this year he was mainly paired with offensive-minded veteran CJ Foley, who took on the bulk of the puck moving duties, and at times it looked like Cleaves was just trying to stay out of the way when he had the puck. As a big, mobile, right-shot defender, he has plenty of tools to make it to the next level. With some slight improvement in footspeed Cleaves should be a solid defensive blueliner that has upside with further development. (Jamison Derksen)

John Parsons - Goaltender - Providence

Parsons, another double over-ager goalie, has been on an upward trajectory since his first year of eligibility. In 2023-24, he played with the NTDP, where he recorded an .864 SV% and 3.71 GAA across all 33 contests, including a .854 SV% and 4.13 GAA in 14 USHL games that season. With those poor numbers, he was passed on in the 2024 draft. The following season, he would join the Chicago Steel, where he played 35 games, with a .903 SV% and a 3.49 GAA, much better numbers, but on a team who finished last in their division. This season, he made the jump to the NCAA, playing for Providence College. He has found a ton of success there, recording a .923 SV% and 1.99 GAA in 18 contests. While Parsons has seen his statistical profile show great improvements over the years, one has to remember that Providence is a top-10 college hockey program in the nation this season. For Parsons, his calmness and composure in the crease is evident. He displays patience and keeps himself in position, square to shots, and angled up well, even when there’s chaos in front of him. He hardly ever panics. He has very refined movements and tracks pucks very well, allowing him to constantly position himself well against shooters. His size, at 6’4”, also gives him an advantage, as he takes away a lot of the net when he positions himself as well as he does. However, he lacks the lateral agility and explosive athleticism to make difficult saves. When playing behind the Steel, who finished bottom of their division, his numbers were not as sterling as they were in Providence this year. When challenged more, and with less defensive structure and success in front of him, issues arise. There’s still a very reliable goalie who makes all the saves he needs to make. That’s the foundation for a goalie who could crack an NHL roster and stick as a backup, so long as he continues to develop his game in the NCAA. (Kyle Pereira)

2026 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP GUIDE – SLOVAKIA – Team Preview, Key Players and Draft Eligible Profiles

Matej Deraj — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 21:59:29 +0000

It´s an end of an era for Team Slovakia. Their strong 2004 and 2005 generation is no longer eligible for the World Juniors, and new prospects are stepping in. Even the strongest Slovak teams were never able to bring a medal, so the current ambitions are much more modest. One of the youngest teams in country´s history, with two-thirds of the players being underagers, they will primarily focus on avoiding the relegation and, ideally, making the quarterfinals.

Slovakia faces some tough opponents in the Group A. Sweden and United States are the clear favorites, while Switzerland and Germany are expected to battle with Slovakia for the two remaining quarterfinals spots.

The current Slovak team is young and inexperienced, when it comes to World Juniors. Only five players have played a game at the last tournament – goaltender Alan Lenďák, defenseman Luka Radivojevič, and three forwards – Ján Chovan, Tomáš Pobežal and Tobias Tomík. The absence of 2024 Washington Capitals draft pick Miroslav Šatan is definitely surprising, as he´s played at the last year´s tournament. However, he failed to score a point in 24 OHL games this season, before recently transferring to the QMJHL.

The likely leaders are players who´ve never played a World Juniors game before – Red Wings third round pick Michal Prádel in net, forward Michal Svrček drafted by the same team, and the talented duo from HK Nitra Tomáš Chrenko and Adam Nemec. Slovakia will have a young and inexperienced, but fun to watch team with a lot of talented players.

Goaltending appears to be a strength, especially Prádel as the expected starter, while Lenďák and Leo Henriquez, all USHL goalies, provide solid support. Although the team lacks a clear leader in offense, many players are capable of stepping in and contributing with goals. Reaching the quarterfinals is a realistic expectation for Team Slovakia.

Key Players to Watch

Luka Radivojevic of Slovakia during the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship game between Czech Republic and Slovakia on December 29, 2024 in Ottawa.
Photo: Mathias Bergeld / BILDBYRÅN

Luka Radivojevič, D (2026 Draft, second year of eligibility)

Radivojevič has already played at two World Juniors and made a strong impression. He´s an undersized but skilled puck-moving defenseman who likes to join the rush and defends well using his stick. More of an offensive defenseman, he is expected to run the point on the first powerplay unit. Surprisingly, Radivojevič went undrafted last year, in a draft that was unkind to undersized defensemen. However, he´s having a strong year at Boston College and could earn a second chance with a strong tournament performance, even though it remains unlikely. Overall, he´s the expected leader for Team Slovakia, maybe even a candidate for a letter, as a former U18 national team captain. He should play 25+ minutes a game and lead Slovak defensemen in points.

ALLEN, TEXAS - APRIL 28: Slovakia's Michal Pradel #2 tracks the puck in the first period against Latvia during Preliminary Round - Group A action at the 2025 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Credit Union of Texas Event Center on April 28, 2025 in Allen, Texas, USA. (Photo by Tim Austen/IIHF)

Michal Prádel, G (Detroit Red Wings)

The highest drafted Slovak in the latest NHL Draft, Prádel was selected by the Detroit Red Wings at No. 75. Standing at 6-foot-5, he´s a large goaltender with decent athletic abilities, but more poised and calmer, relying more on style and technical ability than pure athleticism. Prádel´s having a strong season with Tri-City Storm in the USHL, posting a .916 save percentage. He´s a reliable starter who has had some strong showing in the U18 national team. Although he´s never played at the World Juniors before, he is the clear candidate to be the starting goalie for Team Slovakia. Strong goalie showing are always necessary for any kind of success for Team Slovakia, so they will need Prádel at his best.

Michal Svrček, LW (Detroit Red Wings)

Svrček had a difficult start to the season, as he didn´t play much in the Swedish SHL and often sat on the bench as the 13^th forward only, playing only a couple of minutes or even none. His time on ice has risen, as he was loaned to the 2^nd division HockeyAllsvenskan. Still, he´s far from an ideal season, but should have an important role for Team Slovakia. Svrček is a dynamic, high-compete forward who´s able to contribute in the offensive zone. His role in youth Slovak national teams was usually a top six forward with PP1 usage, often the main shooter on the powerplay. He has a dangerous shot and a sniper, shoot-first mentality. He should play on the first line and score some powerplay goals for Slovakia.

Tomáš Pobežal, C (2026 Draft, second year of eligibility)

Pobežal was anticipated to be one of the leaders at the last year´s World Juniors, but he had a really quiet tournament with zero points in five games and -4. He´s looking for a redemption this year. Now he has the experience and the quality in offense should be more evenly distributed. Pobežal started the last season strong with HK Nitra in Slovak top tier league but cooled off after the World Juniors a bit. He finished the year with 15 goals in 42 games, yet didn´t convince any NHL team to select him and went undrafted. Pobežal is an undersized forward with solid 200-foot game, he´s chippy and finishes his checks despite his smaller frame. He´s able to contribute in the offense as well, he shoots a lot and creates chances.

Ján Chovan, RW/C (Los Angeles Kings)

Chovan made the team last year and undoubtably should be one of the leaders now. He has a great frame at 6-foot-3 but should play even more physical. He´s a very versatile player, able to play both center and wing, plays a two-way game and can be used on both special teams. He usually plays center in Slovak national teams. Chovan is an interesting player. He was drafted by the LA Kings in the 6^th round, a bit later than expected. He moved to the OHL in the summer and had a slower start (one point in first eight games), but now he´s getting on the scoresheet more and should bring some energy to the Slovak lineup.

Other Draft Eligibles to Watch

ESPOO, FINLAND - MAY 4: USA vs Slovakia Semifinal Round action at the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Metro Arena on May 4, 2024 in Espoo, Finland. (Photo by Andr Ringuette/IIHF)

Tomáš Chrenko, C (2026 Draft)

Chrenko is a talented, yet undersized center. He boasts a high hockey IQ, loves to create chances for his teammates and shoots often, even though he´s more of a playmaker. Chrenko is very skilled and a good skater, agile and fast. Not a lot of prospects from Slovakia had their ceiling as high as Chrenko – he could be a top six forward in the NHL one day. The main disadvantage is his size; he fights an uphill battle as a center who´s not at least six feet tall. Chrenko´s having a strong season with HK Nitra in Slovak top tier league, he´s contributing in the offense and playing better among men. He was at #32 in our last draft rankings at McKeen´s. Chrenko is coming to his first World Juniors but should have an important role and play on the first powerplay unit.

Adam Goljer, D (2026 Draft)

Goljer´s massively improving his draft stock in the last weeks and a strong WJC showing could do him wonders. He started the year playing approximately 12 minutes a night for Dukla Trenčín in Slovak top tier league, but his time on ice nearly doubled, now he´s getting 20+ minutes a game. He has a great frame at 6-foot-3, 194 pounds plays a two-way game and moves well. He´s confident with the puck and can run a powerplay unit. He was the undisputed leader of Team Slovakia at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, now he should play on the second pair behind Radivojevič. Goljer is a very interesting player, his size and skills should help him to be a relatively high draft pick. First, he needs a solid tournament with Team Slovakia.

Adam Nemec, LW (2026 Draft)

Nemec is the younger brother of Devils´ defenseman Šimon Nemec, former 2^nd overall pick. Unlike Šimon, Adam is a winger and he´s lankier than his brother at the same age. He has the room to grow some muscle but still likes to play physical and get under opponent´s skin. Just like his brother, Nemec is a highly intelligent player who does a lot of small things right. He´s great at finding the open space and finishing plays but also plays well in defense and can kill penalties. Nemec has the potential to become a middle-six winger in the NHL. Him and Chrenko are a great duo with a lot of chemistry and should play together.

2025 NHL DRAFT: Top ten undrafted players as ranked by McKeen’s Hockey

Brock Otten — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:06:16 +0000

The 2025 NHL Draft has come and gone. 97 of our top 100 ranked players were drafted, as were 120 of our top 130.

There were definitely some interesting trends.

For one, no defenders under the height of 6 feet were selected. Conversely, the focus was clearly on adding size and more size to NHL lineups, as many of the draft’s “fallers” were undersized players. This is obviously in response to what the Florida Panthers have done in recent years; teams want to add more size and grit to their organizations.

Another trend was the increased selection of CHL players. 90 CHL players were selected, the most in almost a decade. Over 40% of all players were out of the Canadian Hockey League, and that number probably increases when you factor in the number of players who have officially (and unofficially) signed in the league for next year. This is obviously in response to the new NCAA eligibility rules and the pending changes coming to the CBA regarding the signing window. Teams felt more comfortable using mid to later round picks on players out of the CHL knowing that their signing window will likely increase and, subsequently, so will their development window.

As is usually the case, re-entry players were heavily targeted. Our top eight re-entries (or overagers) were selected and over 30 were taken league wide. Although, the number was a little lower than we’ve seen the last few years. However, it’s important to note that some of those re-entries taken were players previously ranked highly by us at McKeen’s Hockey like Francesco Dell’Elce and Nolan Roed. Odds are that a few of the players listed below will improve enough to earn a selection in the coming years.

Here were our top ten undrafted players:

Post Draft Outlook: Considering that so many other similar defenders were selected, from the QMJHL alone, it was shocking to see Conrad go unselected. NHL teams must have felt that his skating was not quite at the level it needed to be considering his likely low impact on the offensive side of things.

Post Draft Outlook: Obviously was a turbulent year for Morin as he left the USHL earlier in the year to sign in Saint John, then put up somewhat disappointing numbers. Consistency was the biggest issue for him, especially in terms of physical engagement. But he has the package of size and skill that NHL teams are looking for. At some point, it seems likely he puts it all together and becomes a high scoring junior player. Maybe it’s this year in the QMJHL. Maybe it’s in the future with Boston University.

Post Draft Outlook: Radivojevic was a highly divisive prospect for us this year as a staff. Some felt that he was a top two round prospect, while others felt he was a draft long shot deserving of a lower ranking. As mentioned above, it was not a good year to be an undersized defender. At the end of the day, Radivojevic just isn’t dynamic enough offensively at this current moment to be a big time point producer at higher levels. That makes his projection murky. He’ll be at Boston College next year and could easily be next year’s Francesco Dell’Elce if he produces at a good clip and shows that his game can translate.

Post Draft Outlook: It feels like Pobezal has been on the draft radar for several years thanks to some underage appearances for Slovakia internationally on the bigger stages. However, his game has seemed to plateau, and the physical tools just haven’t caught up. The IQ and compete level are great, but what’s the upside? He’ll play in Kingston next year and he could easily be back on the draft radar with a strong performance in the OHL.

Post Draft Outlook: Even though Rheume-Mullen isn’t technically undersized, it was a tough draft for “average” sized defenders too, especially ones with his profile. Like Radivojevic, DRM was a player that was highly debated by our scouting team. Ultimately, a lack of standout trait outside of skating clouded his upside in the eyes of NHL scouts. But he’ll return to Michigan as a sophomore, and he’ll earn more ice time over time. He’ll definitely be on the signing radar in a few years if he’s not drafted next year (in his final year of eligibility).

Post Draft Outlook: Given how well his brother Gracyn progressed over his years in the WHL, we expected Lukas to be selected because there are some similarities in their games. But his size/frame likely did him in this year, especially when coupled with only average production. We wish he had gotten more ice time at the U18’s to show what he’s made of, but that will have to wait. He’ll return to Edmonton next year and look to fill his big brother’s shoes as Gracyn turns pro in the Florida system.

Post Draft Outlook: We were big fans of Cameron coming into the year and we still believe that he’ll evolve into an NHL prospect down the line. But right now? A tough year for a rebuilding Peterborough Petes team was tough on him. He lost his identity and fell into the draft year trap by trying to do too much. He still has an intriguing two-way skill set and he’ll evolve with an improving Petes’ team over the next two years.

Post Draft Outlook: Again, what a tough year to be undersized. Veilleux was among the production leaders for draft eligible CHL players this year. However, his game lacks polish and maturity currently. He needs to get stronger and improve his off-puck play. If he can add some snarl to his game and continue to improve his skating, he’s going to keep producing offensively in the QMJHL and eventually get a sniff.

Post Draft Outlook: Did we mention that being undersized was a kiss of death this year? Carrier was a favourite sleeper of our QMJHL scouting team, but he just didn’t produce enough or get enough ice time to truly stand out. He is a hard worker with a well-rounded skill set, but perhaps a lack of standout trait, coupled with his size, made it difficult for NHL scouts to project him to a future NHL role.

Post Draft Outlook: Another QMJHL stay at home standout with size that we figured was a draft slam dunk. The heavy hitter might have fallen under the radar a bit this year, his first in the QMJHL as an import. Hopefully he returns to Val D’or next season and continues to improve his skating and puck management/puck skill to get himself back on the draft radar.

2025 IIHF U18 World Championships – Division A – Players to Watch

Brock Otten — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 11:53:19 +0000

The 2025 IIHF U18’s commence on April 23rd, with Canada looking to repeat as Champions for the first time ever at this event. The odds don’t look terrible for Canada either, as they find themselves in the easier Division A. As is the case in any year, Canada is only as strong as the players they have available to them; those not still involved in the CHL playoffs. So, someone like Caleb Desnoyers will not be playing as he continues to push towards a QMJHL title with Moncton. Finland only has a single bronze at this event in the last five years and this year doesn’t look much more hopeful, considering that this group finished almost dead last at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. Simply put, the 2007 birth year is not a strong one for Finland. Slovakia has finished fourth in back-to-back years and will be pushing to finally reach the podium. They serve as Canada’s most likely top opponent in the group. Latvia and Norway are improving hockey nations, but they are more likely to be battling to avoid relegation than for a medal. Although, Norway did beat the United States in pre-tournament action. This article serves as a preview of Division A, with team expectations and players to watch.

Canada

KANATA, ONTARIO - DECEMBER 27: Canada's Jack Ivankovic #1 looks on during Preliminary Round - Group A action against Latvia at 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship at Canadian Tire Centre on December 27, 2024 in Kanata, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Andr Ringuette/IIHF)

It’s always difficult to craft a preview for Canada at this event because they often receive reinforcements after the tournament begins (and this report is published). This year is no different. As of writing this, the following is up in the air: A) The participation of the currently banged up Michael Misa, who has been with the team but not playing or practicing. B) The participation of the rehabbing Matthew Schaefer, who is likely shut down for the season. C) The participation of other recently or not yet eliminated CHL standouts: Jake O Brien, Cole Reschny, Ben Kindel, Cam Reid, Jack Nesbitt, Luca Romano, Landon DuPont, Keaton Verhoeff, and others. Some of those players may not be available, but a few will be.

One of the strengths of this team will be between the pipes. A case could be made that any of Jack Ivankovic, Lucas Beckman, or Burke Hood would be the starting netminders on any team in the tournament and are the three best players at their position in Texas. It’s a great problem to have even though all three can’t play. The fact that the goaltending should be great is important because the defense is going to be the weak spot. Currently, half of Canada’s defense could be made up of underagers. And other than the aforementioned Cam Reid, the other two possible big additions (DuPont and Verhoeff) are also underagers. As the 8-3 pre-tournament drubbing from Sweden could indicate, the defense might be a bit shaky.

Players to Watch:

As mentioned, there are likely to be other key members added, but this list is based off of official additions thus far.

Jackson Smith - Defense

Team Canada is going to need a lot from this smooth skating, two-way blueliner. With a strong performance at this event, he has a chance to solidify his position as the second best blueliner available this year. Scouts will be closely monitoring his decision making, but his upside is sky high.

Jack Ivankovic - Goaltender

While any of Beckman, Hood, or Ivankovic could be Canada’s starter, the Brampton Steelheads netminder seems like the odds-on favourite to log the most minutes based off of his Hlinka/Gretzky performance. He’s not huge, but he’s lightning quick. He’s had some trouble with consistency and allowing some weaker goals this season, so that will be something to monitor.

Braeden Cootes - Center

Slated to be Canada’s top line center at the event, Cootes plays such an admirable high energy game. Yes, he's a skilled playmaker and finisher, but he also loves to push the pace and attack through the middle of the ice. The likely first round selection in 2025 is a candidate to lead Canada in scoring.

Brady Martin - Center/Wing

A natural center, it looks as though Canada will employ Martin on the wing for the U18’s. Much like Cootes, Martin is a player with limitless energy who plays that rugged three zone game. He’s going to bring physicality to every shift, but he’s also going to be counted on to create offensively and be a go-to scorer.

Ryan Roobroeck - Wing

A name that Canadians may not be completely familiar with yet because of his late birthday and the fact that he’s not eligible for the NHL draft until next year. However, Roobroeck is the real deal as a goal scorer. He can score from anywhere and he can play a power game that will be needed for this tournament.

Cameron Schmidt - Wing

At this point, Schmidt seems like one of the 2025 Draft’s biggest wildcards. He can score with the best of them. He’s also a terrific skater and a tenacious player. However, he’s also undersized and consistency from shift to shift has been an issue. He has a lot to prove in this tournament.

Alex Huang - Defense

A late addition to this team, Huang is someone who can hopefully help to stabilize the back end. He paired with Matthew Schaefer on the top pairing at the Hlinka/Gretzky and was solid. Now he’ll need to provide more offensively and play a bit of a different role.

Finland

As stated, this group of 2007 born players has yet to truly inspire confidence in their ability to perform well internationally based on their previous performances. This group finished seventh out of eighth at the past summer’s Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. Previously, they finished dead last at the 2023 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. Consistency was an issue at both Nations tournaments. Simply put, expectations are low at this year’s Under 18’s. Are they at risk of losing to the upstart nations of Norway and Latvia? This same group lost to Germany at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup and Norway might just have a better team than Germany did at that event.

Players to Watch:

Lasse Boelius - Defense

Finland’s top blueliner at this event, Boelius is going to receive all the ice time that he can handle, in pretty much every situation. He’s a mobile two-way defender who has shown a great ability to use his quick feet to create chances inside the offensive blueline. Scouts will be keeping an eye on his physical engagement level and decision making at the event, but he’s a candidate to be the first Finnish player off the board in Los Angeles.

Jesper Kotajarvi - Defense

Kotajarvi came into the season as the top rated Finnish player in this class, but a disappointing draft season in the Tappara program has seen him tumble into the mid round range. Kotajarvi has offensive upside as a puck mover, and to his credit, he finished the season on a high note. Can a strong performance at the U18’s help him regain some of his previous clout?

Atte Joki - Center

Two-way power center who will be one of Finland’s most critical players at the event. He was one of the team’s best and most productive forwards at the Hlinka/Gretzky, and even though he hasn’t had a terrific year in the Finnish U20 league, he remains a candidate for the top 100 in 2025 thanks to his upside as a middle six pro.

Max Westergard - Wing

Few forwards in this entire tournament enter with more draft momentum and confidence than Westergard, who was sensational for Frolunda in the SHL playoffs in a depth role. The late season call-up really showcased improvement in Westergard’s off puck play. However, he’s also going to need to be excellent on the puck if Finland has a chance of making the semi finals at the U18’s.

Patrik Kerkola - Goaltender

There’s no guarantee that Kerkola starts. It’s likely that he and Jooa Sammalniemi split starts in the round robin games. However, we’d argue that Kerkola is the more talented goaltender and has a better chance of stealing games for Finland. He hasn’t had the kind of draft year expected of him, but he’s still a potential selected in 2025.

Vertti Svensk - Defense

Svensk was a standout for Finland at the most recent Nations event, emerging as one of the team’s most effective defenders. His four way mobility is excellent and he really walks the blueline well. He also plays with some jam in the defensive end and shows upside as a two-way defender. A late born 2007, Svensk isn’t eligible until the 2026 NHL Draft.

Slovakia

Luka Radivojevič

Slovakia has finished fourth in back-to-back tournaments, and while you’d love to have seen them medal, making back-to-back semifinal appearances is still an impressive feat in this tournament. Can they make it three straight semifinal appearances this year? The division is wide open and it’s not inconceivable to suggest that the Slovaks are the favourites to finish in the top two of their group. This is a very experienced Slovak team, with eight members of the team returning from last year’s tournament, including five of their top seven scorers. That is valuable in a high-pressure event like the U18’s.

Players to Watch:

Luka Radivojevic - Defense

The skilled, but undersized defender surprisingly led Slovakia in scoring at last year’s tournament as an underager. He returns this year after a season in the USHL with Muskegon, where he was a strong offensive contributor. His ranking for the draft is a hotly debated topic, with a very wide range of outcomes and is true among the members of our staff as well. His performance at the U18’s is going to be closely scrutinized.

Jan Chovan - Center

At this point, Chovan’s performance for Slovakia internationally is keeping him afloat as a potential top three round candidate because his season in the Finnish U20 league has been underwhelming. Something about playing for his country brings out the best in him and we’d expect nothing less here. The power pivot loves to get to the net and he’s a consistent two-way presence. The Slovaks will need him to be an offensive leader.

Alex Misiak - Wing

The brother of Chicago Blackhawks prospect Martin Misiak, Alex finished this past season in the USHL with Waterloo after starting the year in the Slovak pro league. Misiak is a strong skating winger with a nose for the net and the ability to be a solid support player. He’s slated to be a mid-round selection currently but could do wonders for his stock with a strong performance here.

Michal Svrcek - Wing

Svrcek is a high energy, complementary winger who is dangerous because of his elite speed. He is aggressive in his pursuit of the puck, and he may just be the best goal scoring option on this Slovak team. After a strong year in Sweden, he hopes to use this tournament to improve his stock further.

Michal Pradel - Goaltender

According to NHL Central Scouting, no goaltender did more for their draft stock in the second half of the season after he moved to the USHL with Tri-City. The massive netminder is a near lock to be the team’s starter and he’ll look to carry that momentum and strong play into this tournament.

Adam Nemec - Wing

One of a few strong 2026 NHL Draft eligible players on this Slovak roster, Nemec may just be the best of the bunch. The younger brother of New Jersey Devils defender Simon Nemec, Adam was terrific for a U18 player in the Slovak pro leagues this year. He’s aggressive, physical, and a skilled finisher.

Norway

The Norwegians make their third straight appearance in the main group of the U18’s, only this year they hope to avoid playing in the relegation round. They’ve managed to avoid relegation the last two years and they may not be so lucky the third time around if they find themselves there again. But this is a strong Norwegian team on paper. Their pre-tournament victory over the U.S. was no fluke. Norway could have as many as three or four 2025 NHL selections on this roster and a few solid candidates for 2026 too. They’ll likely have a solid powerplay and top line. It will come down to the kind of goaltending they get.

Players to Watch:

Mikkel Eriksen - Center

Likely the straw that stirs the drink for Norway at this tournament, Eriksen is an intelligent, playmaking pivot who had a great season in the Swedish J20 league this year. The nephew of Norwegian legend Espen Knutsen, Eriksen is a likely selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. He had four goals at last year’s tournament as an underager, so look for him to have a solid tournament this time around too.

Tinus Luc Koblar - Center

A favourite of our Swedish scouts, especially Felix Robbins, Luc Koblar is a strong skating, high energy forward who has been a huge draft riser through the second half of this season thanks to strong play down the stretch for Leksands J20. The big forward oozes upside thanks to great physical tools. The rest of our scouting team is very intrigued by him heading into this tournament and he’ll be watched closely.

Niklas Aaram-Olsen - Wing

A top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft and one of the top 2008 born players slated to play in this tournament, Aaram-Olsen is a winger who combines size and skill to be an effective scorer. Only potential top three pick Viggo Bjorck had more points as a U17 player in the Swedish J20 league this past season. Already named as a top three player for the Norwegians at last year’s tournament, it’ll be interesting to see how much better he is this year.

Latvia

The Latvians are working on a three year streak of making the quarterfinals at this event and they have a great chance of making it four years straight, even if they’ll be relying on underagers to be their best players. If we’ve learned anything about Latvia from recent international tournaments, it’s that they can’t be counted out. They are scrappy and they find ways to win.

Players to Watch:

Olivers Murnieks - Center

Unquestionably Latvia’s top player, even as an underager. You could make the argument that Murnieks was Latvia’s top skater at the World Juniors this year. The well-proportioned pivot was one of the highest scoring 2008 born players in the USHL this past year. While Murnieks isn’t a dynamic skater, he is equally skilled as a playmaker and finisher and has the upside to be a first round NHL selection in 2026.

Rudolfs Berzkalns - Wing

A Boston College commit, Berzkalns has played in the U.S. the last few seasons, first with the BK Selects program and in the USHL with Muskegon this past season. He played for Latvia at the WJC’s but saw very little ice time. A strong skater with good offensive instincts and advanced puck protection habits, look for him to play alongside Murnieks. This is a name to watch for the 2026 NHL Draft, as like Murnieks, Berzkalns is an underager at this event.

Karlis Flugins - Wing

Flugins came to Flint of the OHL this year with a fair amount of hype, but he really struggled with the Firebirds. It’s clear that he is a smart player, but his skating and strength need improvement if he wants to be a high-end OHL player. A late born 2007, Flugins isn’t eligible for the NHL draft until 2026. It will be interesting to see how he performs at this event, where he’ll receive way more ice time than he received in the OHL this season.

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 WORLD JUNIORS: Mateiko, Feldbergs shine as Latvia shock Canada on Day Two

Kyle Watson — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 02:17:27 +0000

OTTAWA - The Canadian Tire Centre fell silent as it happened.

Not even a pin drop could be heard as Eriks Mateiko's shot sailed over Jack Ivankovic's shoulder to etch his team's name into tournament folklore and give Team Latvia their third-ever win in the preliminary round of the World Juniors.

After scoring twice in regulation and going toe-to-toe with the Canadians in overtime, an upset was very much in the cards for Team Latvia heading into the skills competition. Nonetheless, the arena was left in a collective state of belief when it happened — including the Latvians themselves.

Perhaps no one in the building was more overtly shocked than Linards Feldbergs - who made 55 saves and was named Latvia's player of the game. The netminder had about five seconds to soak it all in before being mobbed by his teammates:

The reaction of goalie Linards Feldbergs was PRICELESS. pic.twitter.com/lQmlv3bQyk

— Nathan "Grav" Murdock (@NathanGraviteh) December 28, 2024

"I'm still in shock," the 19-year-old said after the game.

"It was crazy. I [still can't believe] what we did, I think I need an hour to process this."

Feldbergs' performance will be talked about for years to come. Excluding a less-than-stellar read on Jett Luchanko's opening tally 3:28 into the second period, the Sherbrooke Pheonix goaltender defended the offensive onslaught from the Canadians with formidable poise.

Turning aside an incredible 20 shots in the second period, Feldbergs' exceptional play gave Latvia a fighting chance heading into the final frame — an accomplishment on its own.

Mateiko, the Saint John Sea Dogs captain, tied the game for Latvia with 6:42 remaining in the game after an untimely elbowing penalty from Team Canada defenceman, Andrew Gibson.

Just over a minute later, Cal Ritchie put the Canadians back in front on the man advantage. His effort was nullified by another powerplay marker: Team Latvia captain Peteris Bulanis beat Ivankovic cleanly as his defence failed to clear the traffic in front of the net.

Following seven scoreless rounds of the shootout, Mateiko had clear instructions with the game on his stick:

"The coaches said 'shoot it,' so I just went for it," said the Washington Capitals prospect.

While Feldbergs was swarmed at one end, the rest of Team Latvia rushed to join Mateiko in celebration:

LATVIA BEATS CANADA IN THE SHOOTOUT

Eriks Mateiko scores the game winner!#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/oIVP2ddA89

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 28, 2024

When asked about his feelings after the goal, Mateiko was still piecing his recollection together.

"I don’t know, to be honest. I blacked out a little bit," he said with a laugh.

"[It took me] like 10 minutes to remember where I shot it," he added. "I didn't even know where the puck went in at first.

Stories of upsets in tournaments' past are often filled with hyperbole. It's difficult to capture the magnitude of this victory and what it means to a nation of less than two million people.

The Latvian forward was at a loss for words to express his emotions after the game.

"It's amazing. I can't even describe the feeling," he said. "I still can't believe it happened."

"Someone has to pinch me now because it feels unreal," added his teammate, Bulanis.

Team Canada Head Coach Dave Cameron said post-game it was "a game you win nine out of 10 times."

More accurately (according to oddsmakers), it was a game you win 4999 times out of 5000.

What's next for Team Canada?

Canadian fans were just as speechless as the Latvian players after the game. The usual discussions about usage and players left at home ensued online. Is there merit to their protests?

A struggling powerplay without a true sharpshooter could benefit from the addition of Carson Rehkopf, who led the OHL in goals on the man advantage last season. He's been a healthy scratch thus far.

Porter Martone saw the least ice time of any Canadian skater (7:13), despite currently trailing only Andrew Cristall for the CHL lead in points per game. Does he have more to offer?

With Saturday off, Coach Cameron and his staff will have time to mull over their approach before facing Germany on Sunday.

Big names quiet on Day Two

In a game where over half of his team picked up at least a point, Team Swedish defenseman Axel Sandin-Pelikka was somehow held off the scoresheet against Kazakhstan. The Detroit Red Wings prospect is likely content considering his team's 8-1 win to put them atop Group B, but it's worth noting.

In his tournament-leading 16 games played, ASP has five goals and 11 points. He trails Peter Andersson (1982-85) for the all-time lead for WJC points by a Swedish defenceman by seven.

It's an attainable objective for the 19-year-old, but the tournament record set by Ryan Ellis (25 points in 19 games) may now be out of reach.

Tied with Sandin-Pelikka in appearances is Dalibor Dvorsky, who was lacklustre in Team Slovakia's 2-1 win over Switzerland. Much was expected of the St. Louis Blues 2023 first-round pick in his fourth World Juniors appearance, and the Slovaks will need more than just a secondary assist and two shots on goal in 23:18 of ice time if they are to meet their dark horse expectations.

Slovakia needs much more from Dalibor Dvorsky. He should be the best player on the ice at times. Instead, he’s been invisible. Not playing with pace. Often the last man back to the defensive zone. At even strength their top line is consistently getting outplayed. #WorldJuniors

— Brock Otten (@BrockOtten) December 27, 2024

The Springfield Thunderbirds centreman is enjoying an impressive rookie season in the AHL, leading the team with 10 goals and 21 points in 27 matches. He may not have the same level of talent surrounding him in this tournament, but it's weaker competition.

Parting Notes

Heading into the game, Canada had a 4-0 record all-time against Latvia, with an aggregate score of 41-4
Felbergs and 2008-born teammate Oliver Murnieks (Sioux City, USHL) won the Latvian first-division championship with HK Mogo last season. Felbergs was named Finals MVP.
Jett Luchanko is the first player born in London, Ont, to score at the tournament in nine years. The last? Fellow Philadelphia Flyer, Travis Konecny.
Jack Ivankovic (Brampton, OHL) is the fourth 17-year-old to backstop Team Canada, joining Brian Finley (1999), Jimmy Waite (1987), and Terry Wright (1980) as the only netminders to manage the feat.
Sweden scored tallied even-strength goals in the opening frame against Kazakhstan.
Buffalo Sabres prospect Anton Wahlberg led the day in scoring with four points (2G, 2A).
2025 NHL Draft-eligible forward Victor Eklund (Djurgårdens, HockeyAllsvenskan) was named Player of the Game for Sweden with a goal and an assist.
Kazakhstan scored their first goal since Denis Chapolov's empty-net marker in a 4-1 win over Germany in the 2020 relegation round.
Finland gets revenge after their 4-3 loss to the Germans last year — their first loss to Germany in their previous 26 matchups
Slovakia's goalscorers, Jan Chovan (Tappara, Fin-U20) and Luka Radivojevic (Muskegon, USHL), are both NHL Draft eligible. They are ranked 64th and 47th, respectively

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Draft-Eligible Players to Watch

Brock Otten — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 20:00:55 +0000

There is a general rule when watching first-time draft-eligible players at the World Junior Championships; a good performance should help raise a player’s stock, but a poor tournament should not considerably lower a player’s stock. Historically, this is a tough tournament for underagers to excel at. Not everyone is ready for the limelight like Connor Bedard was in 2023 when he set the new scoring record for a U18 player, or like Patrik Laine and Jesse Puljujarvi were when they led Finland to a gold medal in 2016, combining for 30 points. Auston Matthews had a single goal when he played for the US as a U18 player. Sergei Fedorov, Scott Niedermayer, David Legwand, Brian Leetch, and Sebastian Aho are among the many who were held pointless. Bottom line, there are more failures than success stories and it’s important to keep that in perspective when evaluating draft-eligible players at this tournament.

That said, we’d be lying to you if we said we weren’t keeping tabs on certain players to see how they perform. This year, there are several players to keep an eye on and we’ve got you covered with that list.

Matthew Schaefer - Defense - Canada

Our new top-ranked player for the 2025 NHL Draft (as per our recent update), there wasn’t a lot of skepticism about Schaefer making this team. However, there was no guarantee, given his age, that he would receive a prominent role. After the exhibition schedule, it certainly appears that Schaefer is going to receive significant ice time and responsibility for Canada. He was one of the team’s top defenders in the tune-up games and he is poised to have a big tournament. The Canadian scoring record for a U18 defender at this event is held by Ryan Ellis with seven and Schaefer could challenge that.

Porter Martone - Wing - Canada

The power winger is likely to be a bottom-six player on this Canadian team, perhaps even a victim of the numbers game in the press box. The key for him will be providing physicality without crossing the thin line that exists in IIHF hockey.

Jack Ivankovic - Goaltender - Canada

Unlikely to see significant time ahead of Carter George or Carson Bjarnason, but stranger things have happened at this tournament. Realistically, Ivankovic is here to gain experience for future events. If anything, this serves as a great break from the OHL for Ivankovic, who has struggled the last month for the reeling Brampton Steelheads.

James Hagens - Center - USA

Hagens enters the tournament as the first-line center for the United States as part of an all-Boston College unit with Ryan Leonard and Gabe Perreault. Their chemistry should really help them in a short tournament and all three could be right up near the top of the tournament scoring leaders. As we approach this tournament, Hagens is finding himself off the top spot on several current 2025 lists (including ours). A dominating performance here could go a long way to proving to scouts that he is still the top player this year.

Logan Hensler - Defense - USA

It hasn’t been an easy freshman year for Hensler at Wisconsin, who entered the year neck and neck with Schaefer as the top defender available, but now finds himself firmly behind the talented Canadian. However, Hensler has a chance to be a pretty versatile defender for the U.S. at this event and that could really help him gain a hold of the second-best defender title.

Vojtech Cihar - Wing - Czechia

There’s no guarantee that Cihar plays much of a role for a Czech team with serious medal aspirations, however, the talented winger has had a terrific year in the Czech league and is firmly on the draft radar as a top two-round candidate. Can he find a way to carve out a role?

Carlos Handel - Defense - Germany

Handel hasn’t had the kind of offensive impact, especially of late, as many had hoped he would when he joined Halifax of the QMJHL for his draft year. However, he’s still a pretty highly regarded prospect and he’s going to likely get top-four ice time for Germany at this event; an excellent opportunity for him to shine on the big stage.

David Lewandowski - Center - Germany

Another German standout who has crossed the pond to play in the CHL, Lewandowski has excelled for Saskatoon of the WHL. The big pivot plays a power game that should help him match up well against some of the other big powers in Germany’s division. Look for him to play a top-three-line role.

Rio Kaiser - Defense - Germany

A lesser-known prospect eligible for this year, Kaiser is still someone on the draft radar because of his size and intriguing athleticism on the backend. He hasn’t received a ton of ice time in the DEL this year, but he could play a prominent defensive role at this tournament and open up some eyes.

Bruno Osmanis - Wing - Latvia

Playing a good chunk of the year in the Allsvenskan (Swedish second-tier pro league), Osmanis has actually produced well playing against men in a limited role. This sets him up well for success at this event, where he’s going to be counted on by Latvia to be one of their go-to offensive players.

Luka Radivojevic - Defense - Slovakia

Our scouting team has been pretty divided on Radivojevic this year, so the fact that he should get decent ice time for Slovakia could help with that division. He’s been playing better lately after the move to Muskegon of the USHL, but how impactful can he be at the higher levels given his lack of size? We’re curious to see how he defends at this event, against the world’s best.

Jan Chovan - Center - Slovakia

Chovan came into the year with a fair amount of hype after a good U17 year and a strong Hlinka/Gretzky Cup performance, but his production in the Finnish U20 league has been underwhelming. The big pivot can play a heavy, two-way game and that should make him an ideal bottom-six player for the Slovaks. Would Chovan consider a post-WJC move to the OHL, where Sudbury owns his rights?

Tomas Pobezal - Center - Slovakia

Pobezal is on pace for a legendary season in the Slovak men’s league, right on par with the likes of Marian Hossa and Marian Gaborik. That has him right in the conversation as a top 50 selection this year. He may not be flashy, but Pobezal is gritty, intelligent, and versatile. Look for him to play a middle-six role for the Slovaks.

Victor Eklund - Wing - Sweden

Another potential top-five selection playing in this year’s tournament (along with Schaefer, Martone, and Hagens). There’s no guarantee that Eklund receives a lot of ice time for the Swedes, but he’s the kind of dynamic offensive player who can have an eventual impact in the tournament.

2025 WORLD JUNIORS: Team Preview – Team Slovakia

Matej Deraj — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 14:00:54 +0000

Slovakia had a strong team last year, featuring eleven drafted players, including three first-rounders: Dalibor Dvorský, Samuel Honzek, and Filip Mešár. Despite their potential, their medal ambitions fell short after a quarterfinal overtime loss to Finland. This year, Ivan Feneš’ squad is aiming for redemption, but advancing past the quarterfinals could be a serious challenge.

Slovakia’s top player is undoubtedly the returning Dalibor Dvorský. The Blues prospect (#10 in the 2023 NHL Draft) is having an excellent season with the Springfield Thunderbirds in the AHL, where he is one of the team’s best players. His first NHL call-up seems imminent, but first, he will take part in his fifth (!) World Juniors, counting the cancelled 2022 tournament that was rescheduled and played again later in the summer.

The 2005 Slovak birth year group lacks the star power of the previous year but still boasts valuable experience, with key returnees like Dvorský, defenseman Maxim Štrbák or forward Juraj Pekarčík. Younger draft-eligible players, such as forwards Tomáš Pobežal and Ján Chovan, or a puck-moving defenceman Luka Radivojevič, who already made his WJC debut last year, add fresh talent and energy to the roster.

Slovakia will compete in a group with Sweden, Czechia, Switzerland, and Kazakhstan. A top-two finish in the group would definitely improve their chances of reaching the semifinals. While Slovakia hasn’t advanced to the final four at the U20 level since winning bronze in 2015, they’ve had recent success at the U18 level, finishing 4th in both 2023 and 2024. Many players from those U18 squads are on the current roster, bringing valuable experience to the World Juniors stage.

Ultimately, Slovakia’s medal hopes rest heavily on Dvorský’s performance. If he delivers a standout tournament and receives strong secondary scoring support from the rest of the forwards, as well as reliable goaltending, Slovakia could make a surprising run to the final four. The team’s depth, talent, and defensive structure are strengths, but a true No. 1 goalie will be crucial. The round-robin game against Czechia could be a good test of which team is better positioned to contend for a medal.

Key Players

Dalibor Dvorský, C

Dvorský is one of the best players of the whole tournament and he should be the undisputed leader of the Slovak team. He's having a great season in the AHL and Slovakia will definitely benefit from having him on the roster. Dvorský is a talented shooter who can really rip the puck, he has great offensive skills and plays a decent two-way game as a centre. He's playing at his 5^th World Juniors (including the cancelled 2022 tournament), but it hasn't always been sure if the Blues let him go. Thankfully for Slovakia, he will appear in Ottawa to help his team have a successful tournament.

Maxim Štrbák, D

Štrbák is also going to play at his 5^th U20 tournament, which has never happened before. The Sabres prospect was already a true #1 defenceman for Slovakia last year due to Šimon Nemec´s absence and is looking forward to reprising that role this year. Štrbák is a two-way defenceman with a solid frame and compete level who defends well. He does have some offence to his game, which is evident when playing for Team Slovakia, but he's not a typical powerplay quarterback and will likely give up that position to Luka Radivojevič. Štrbák should, however, play the most minutes on the team.

Juraj Pekarčík, LW/RW

Pekarčík is a 3^rd round pick from the 2023 draft, he was selected by the same team as Dvorský (the Blues). He's the expected linemate of the Slovak star as they played together at the U18 World Championship and did extremely well. Pekarčík is a great playmaker, he´s mobile and has a decent size. He works hard and goes to the net. His play makes him a great complementary winger. He should be able to help with scoring points and playing a lot of minutes.

Luka Radivojevič, D

Radivojevič stunned the world at the last U20 tournament, where he dressed for Slovakia as a 16-year-old and didn't look out of pace at all. He even scored his first goal and got some looks on the powerplay. A year later, Radivojevič should be the PP1 quarterback and get the offensive zone starts. He is a smaller defenceman with great mobility and offensive creativity, he uses his stick well and likes to play with the puck on his stick. Radivojevič had previously been hyped to be selected in the teens of the upcoming draft, which might not be the case anymore, due to his early season struggles. However, should he play a great tournament, his stock would likely go up.

Tomáš Pobežal, C/W

Pobežal is an exciting young forward, he missed last year´s tournament due to injury, but he's ready for his first World Juniors appearance now. Pobežal is having a great draft year in Slovak top-tier league, scoring twelve goals in twenty-six games. The scoring pace is unusual for a first-year draft-eligible player in a challenging pro league; only Marián Hossa and Marián Gáborík managed to score more goals in their DY. Pobežal is a versatile forward with a high compete level who's always trying to be engaged, either in creating chances and getting to dangerous spots in offence, or finishing checks and taunting opponents to get under their skin. An exciting player to watch.

Samuel Urban, G

The athletic goalie went undrafted for two years, not even a great performance at the U18 World Championship could help him to get selected. Urban played a huge role in Slovakia´s success at that tournament and now he'll need to be on top of his game again to help his team achieve a successful result. Urban is the projected starter; he's played a ton of games in the USHL and has always been a reliable option for this Slovak group at the international level. He´s a bit smaller (6´1”), but an extremely athletic goalie who has the tools to bring a great performance.

Adam Cedzo, RW

Cedzo was the third guy on the elite Slovak line which helped the team tremendously to reach the semifinals at the 2023 U18 World Championship. He is a skilled forward with silky hands but a strong wrister, making him a huge powerplay threat to give Slovakia another option other than just passing to Dvorský all the time. Cedzo has played in a second-tier Czech league for the past two years. He’s a smaller forward, but competes hard and helps his team to win.

Jakub Chromiak, D

Chromiak had struggled for the past two years in the OHL, but he's been having a much better season this year with the Kitchener Rangers. He is a two-way defenceman who has always shown his offensive abilities but wasn't able to progress as much as expected. He should be an important defenceman for Slovakia, if they are able to fit him on a power play, it should be even better. Chromiak has a decent shot and other offensive qualities, such as vision and passing.

Samuel Barcík, D

Barcík has been a pleasant surprise in the Slovak top-tier league, playing well on one of the best teams in the league and even running a powerplay at some point. He's more of a defensive defenceman; he's strong, uses his body well and throws hits. He does have a booming shot and some offence to his game as well. Barcík has been a member of the Slovak junior teams in the past, but he's going to play at his first World Juniors.

Daniel Jenčko, LW/C

Jenčko has been playing well in the NCAA at UMass, scoring seven points in nine games as a freshman in college. He spent two years in Sweden prior to moving to the US, first to the USHL and now he's in the NCAA. He´s a speedy forward with a decent playmaking game and vision. Jenčko has some two-way qualities to his game as well, although he's been playing more at the wing. He should be able to provide some secondary scoring.

Sleeper Player

Ján Chovan, RW/C

Chovan is an intriguing player for the 2025 NHL Draft. He´s big, strong and extremely well-rounded – able to play centre and wing, on the power play and penalty kill, boasting decent two-way skills. There are not many exciting draft eligibles playing in Finland this year, but Chovan is definitely among them. He's one of the youngest players on the Slovak squad and the draft eligibles tend to have a longer adjusting period, especially to the pace, at their first World Juniors. However, this is a great opportunity for Chovan to show his game at a bigger stage and display his skill.

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

2025 NHL DRAFT: DECEMBER RANKING – TOP 32 – PRE-WJC

Brock Otten — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:10:01 +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.

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

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