Ryan Chesley – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #11 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Sun, 03 May 2026 22:00:21 +0000

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 08: Washington Capitals Left Winger Ilya Protas (62) skates during warmup before the NHL regular season game between the Washington Capitals and the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 8, 2026, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 11th (Last Year - 7th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

After a surprising turnaround in 2024–25, when the Washington Capitals finished second in the Eastern Conference with 51 wins, the organization is now beginning to feel the effects of an aging core. With the team slipping outside the playoff picture, Washington has already begun its purge, moving long-time defenseman John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick. That acquisition helps offset a depleted draft outlook, as the Capitals currently lack both second- and third-round selections in the upcoming draft. Luckily, the organization has drafted well in recent years, providing optimism that this may be more of a quick retool than a full rebuild under Chris Patrick. They now carry most of their picks post 2026, and there’s a decent expectation that they could add more to that pile.

Ryan Leonard has already graduated to the NHL and has established himself as a legitimate scoring threat in his rookie campaign, while prospects such as Andrew Cristall (46th), Ilya Protas (39th), and Ivan Miroshnichenko (125th) have continued to show well at the AHL level. On the back end, 2024 second-round pick Cole Hutson (16th) is coming off an explosive NCAA career at Boston University, where he produced at over a point-per-game pace across two seasons. Now transitioning to the NHL, Hutson already appears on the verge of graduating from our list in short order.

With speculations that this could be Alexander Ovechkin’s final season, the Capitals find themselves at a crossroads. However, the good news is that they are supported by a promising group of young players who could help usher in the next phase of competitive hockey in Washington quicker than expected.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
Wsh	1	Cole Hutson	D	19	5-10/165	Boston University (NCAA)	35	10	22	32	26
Wsh	1	Cole Hutson	D	19	5-10/165	Washington (NHL)	14	3	7	10	8
Wsh	2	Ilya Protas	LW	19	6-3/185	Hershey (AHL)	69	29	37	66	40
Wsh	2	Ilya Protas	LW	19	6-3/185	Washington (NHL)	4	1	3	4	2
Wsh	3	Andrew Cristall	LW	21	5-9/165	Hershey (AHL)	72	20	40	60	24
Wsh	4	Lynden Lakovic	LW	19	6-4/200	Moose Jaw (WHL)	22	18	11	29	8
Wsh	5	Milton Gastrin	C	18	6-1/195	MoDo Hockey (Allsvenskan)	39	10	14	24	4
Wsh	6	Terik Parascak	RW	20	6-0/180	Prince George (WHL)	61	33	46	79	53
Wsh	7	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	22	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	41	14	20	34	47
Wsh	7	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	22	6-1/185	Washington (NHL)	13	2	1	3	2
Wsh	8	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	24	6-3/200	Hershey (AHL)	62	17	28	45	31
Wsh	8	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	24	6-3/200	Washington (NHL)	2	0	0	0	0
Wsh	9	Ryan Chesley	D	22	6-0/200	Hershey (AHL)	64	6	10	16	18
Wsh	10	Leon Muggli	D	19	6-1/175	Hershey (AHL)	27	1	6	7	4
Wsh	11	David Gucciardi	D	23	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	52	3	10	13	55
Wsh	12	Eriks Mateiko	LW	20	6-5/215	Hershey (AHL)	27	1	5	6	16
Wsh	13	Cam Allen	D	21	6-0/195	Hershey (AHL)	22	3	4	7	22
Wsh	14	Maxim Schafer	RW	19	6-4/185	Chicoutimi (QMJHL)	53	21	28	49	28
Wsh	15	Petr Sikora	C	20	5-11/170	HC Ocelari Trinec (Czechia)	24	3	6	9	8

Cole Hutson, D, Boston University (NCAA) (Currently with Washington Capitals, NHL)

Both Boston University and the U.S. World Juniors teams have been underwhelming overall but luckily they’ve had Cole Hutson as one of the lone offensive brightsides. He’s had to do it all for the Terriers this season, top pairing offensive defenceman, top power play quarterback, top penalty kill. Hutson is all ready to jump into the Capitals blueline next season, seeing as how he can elevate the game of those around him with his playmaking and space creation. He is more conservative than his older brother with the puck and when pinching, which has made him way more defensively responsible and able to take hits at his young age. Hutson’s dynamism comes from his IQ and stickhandling, which has been very unpredictable no matter where he is on the ice, as long as he has the puck, he’s going to make a move. It may take longer for him to make the impact that Lane did in a lineup, but Cole Hutson will be an impact player for the Washington Capitals in the near future.
Ilya Protas, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Washington’s use of a third-round pick on Ilya Protas is looking better and better every year. As a 19-year-old rookie, Protas has been the heartbeat of this Hershey Bears team. Protas has been the team’s first-choice center in nearly every situation from the jump. Being on the first line, first power play unit, and occasionally the penalty kill, he is easily the leader in ice time among the forward group. In his first 69 pro games, Protas put up 66 points and leads the team. Everything that made him a standout in Windsor has translated almost seamlessly in Hershey. Protas’ unique blend of size and skill is causing problems in the AHL. Protas has incredible vision and play anticipation for someone his age playing against men. He’s developing as a center in all the right ways in all three zones. It’s not a matter of if he will play alongside his brother in the NHL, but when. If Washington can’t find a way into the playoff picture, Protas will likely get a late-season call-up and work toward making the opening-day roster next season.
Andrew Cristall, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Both in points and on the ice, the one player to have gone step for step with Ilya Protas thus far has been fellow rookie and linemate Andrew Cristall. In 72 games this season, Cristall put up 60 points and put his playmaking on full display. Cristall is at his best when he gets the puck on his stick and before you know it, he’s already dished it out. His style of slowing the play down, changing the angle and making a play has carried to the AHL level. Cristall’s offensive prowess wasn’t the largest area of concern when making the jump to the pros, but rather his pace and defensive capabilities. This season has shown these are still areas of growth for him. On the forecheck and in his defensive zone, Cristall is never grinding along the boards to get possession of the puck but rather hovering near the play to grab the loose puck and turn it into a scoring opportunity. It’s a style that limits him to a top six role, which he can reach but might delay his road to the NHL.
Lynden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jay Warriors (WHL)

You truly have to feel bad for Lakovic due to the season-ending injury that he suffered in November. Not only was he playing the best hockey of his career at that point in time (the game he got injured in snapped a 14-game point streak for him), if he had stayed healthy he surely would have been traded from the rebuilding Moose Jaw Warriors to one of the WHL's championship-chasing clubs. It also causes some concerns about his overall development, because he's still a very raw prospect who needs plenty of reps to refine some areas of need, but after already signing his entry-level contract, he won't be able to make a stop in the NCAA before going to the pro leagues. Either way, the Capitals are probably still sufficiently content about drafting Lakovic in the first round in 2025, because it's hard to find forwards at his size who are also such superb skaters and puck handlers. If everything unfolds just right for him in the coming years he could turn into a pretty rare kind of player at the NHL level.
Milton Gästrin, C, MoDo (Allsvenskan)

Gästrin’s DY+1 has gone swimmingly. He’s playing big minutes in all situations down the middle at the HockeyAllsvenskan level and producing at a solid clip as well. Helping win a gold medal at the WJC doesn’t hurt either. The strongest tools in Gästrin’s arsenal have translated well to the pro level. His high-end skating, his strong motor, and his hockey sense have allowed him to make an immediate impact as a two-way center for MoDo. His skills with the puck and his playmaking ability look like they’ve taken a step, and he’s shooting the puck with more oomph as well. What his exact NHL role will be is still a bit unclear. He’s got a solid NHL floor, but where he plays in the lineup will be defined by the next steps in his development. If he can bulk up a bit more and play with a harder physical edge, he could easily slot into a bottom six role. If he learns to accept more puck responsibility and stops deferring so much in the offensive zone, he could play higher up in the lineup. Hopefully that clears itself up after another year or two of development in the Swedish pro ranks.
Terik Parascak, RW, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

A lot of eyebrows were raised when Washington selected Parascak at 17th overall in the 2024 draft. He cracked the 100-point plateau that season as a 17-year-old with the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, but questions were asked and debates were held about whether his production was a genuine reflection of his talent and potential, or whether it might have been a bit of a mirage. Nearly two years later, all the signs are pointing towards it being the latter of the two, evidenced mainly by the ongoing decline of his scoring pace despite the consistency of his environment. He’s certainly not a bad prospect, by any means. He works hard and thinks the game well in all three zones, he’s effective on both sides of special teams, and he has an innate nose for the net. The problem is that that description is better suited to a prospect taken 57th or 67th overall, as opposed to 17th. There’s still time for Parascak to turn into a contributing NHL player, but the Capitals will need to do more to help him get there.
Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW Hershey Bears (AHL)

Out of everyone who has played at least two games for Hershey this season, Ivan Miroshnichenko leads the way in points per game. In 41 games, Miroshnichenko had 34 points for the Bears. In each of the past two seasons, Miroshnichenko has played roughly 30 games with the NHL club. This season, he has played five to date. Has he fallen out of favor with head coach Spencer Carbery, or is it just bad luck? More likely the latter. Miroshnichenko missed 12 games early in the year due to injury and during that time inked a two-year extension. Although he isn’t afraid to play along the boards and rough some people up, Miroshnichenko is more of a goal scorer than a depth player. With several forward contracts coming off the books next season in Washington, Miroshnichenko should get his shot as a full-time top nine forward with the Capitals.
Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

In his first two full seasons with Hershey in the AHL, Bogdan Trineyev hovered around the 20-point mark. This season has been a different story. Something has clicked offensively for the Russian and he has now eclipsed his career high in points in 39 games. It’s a remarkable jump in production from the 2020 fourth-round pick. Trineyev’s calling card has always been as a grinder. He works hard on the forecheck and is finally getting a share of the points he’s helping create. In his own end, he is stalwart defensively. He consistently positions himself well and actively uses his stick to disrupt play. He’s been a mainstay on the penalty killing unit for a while now. With the scoring ability finally there, Trineyev now looks to be capable of battling for a bottom six role in Washington. He’s already been called up once this season for two games and will likely be the first choice if a depth option goes down again.
Ryan Chesley, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Coming over from the University of Minnesota at the end of last season, Chesley had three points in four games. Through 64 games this season, Chesley only had 16. His offence has cooled recently and his defence hasn’t been on fire either. Chesley posted a team-worst +/- of -19. As a stay-at-home defenceman type, Chesley’s effectiveness has been reduced with a step up in play. The pace of play in the AHL puts more pressure on defencemen to make the correct decision quickly and Chesley is cracking under it. Under pressure, Chesley is not making the right reads quickly enough, which is leading to frequent turnovers. He hasn’t been a big feature of either special teams group, thus limiting his value. Chesley may not be as close to NHL-ready as once thought, but that shouldn’t really change his long-term projection. He still has plenty of time left to adjust and still projects as a dependable third-pairing defenceman.
Leon Muggli, D, Hershey Bears, (AHL)

Leon Muggli has suited up 19 times for Hershey this season, earning five points in the process. He missed 20 games early in the season due to an upper-body injury and then also spent time away from the Bears to participate in the World Junior Championships with Switzerland. In five games, he tallied one goal and four assists. During the handful of games Muggli has played, he’s been largely in a sheltered role, averaging a little over 16 minutes a game. He’s gotten more looks on the power play than the penalty kill. Muggli’s pro experience in Switzerland is showing up as he doesn’t look as out of place as you would expect for a 19-year-old defenceman in the AHL. He’s getting his stick in the right spots a lot of the time and his skating is solid for this level. Muggli has so much runway left in his development that it’s hard to project him at this point. It’s reasonable to think that Muggli will be a bottom-four NHL defenceman of some variety. A lot of it will depend on how much of his offensive game he can develop in Hershey.
David Gucciardi, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

An underrated player in the Capitals system who impressed in this year’s NHL preseason. Gucciardi is a strong skating two-way defender who has been solid for Hershey so far this season. He could be a potential bottom pairing option for Washington in a year or two.
Eriks Mateiko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Mateiko was a breakout star last season at the WJC’s, helping Latvia find success. However, the big winger has struggled at the AHL level as a rookie, battling ineffectiveness and injury. He’ll need to adjust to the pace of the pro game.
Cam Allen, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

A classic jack of all trades type defender, Allen will need to find an identity as a pro if he wants to be an NHL defender. His mobility is his best asset.
Maxim Schafer, LW, Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)

The big German winger remains a big project. Playing in the QMJHL this year, he does a good job of getting to the net and using his size. However, does he have the skill to be an NHL player down the line? Staying in the QMJHL for another year would be extremely beneficial.
Petr Sikora, C, HC Ocelari Trinec (Czech)

Sikora really popped off at this year’s World Juniors, captaining the Czechs to a silver medal. He brings great energy and effort and is starting to gain confidence as a playmaker. Could continue to rise in the ranks of Washington’s system.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #7

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:22:57 +0000

ST. LOUIS, MO - APRIL 12: Boston defenseman Cole Hutson (44) handles the puck during the championship game of the NCAA D1 Frozen Four between the Boston University Terriers and the Western Michigan Broncos on April 12, 2025, at Enterprise Center, St. Louis, MO. (Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 7th (May 2025 - 9th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

The Washington Capitals pulled off a remarkable retool in 2024-25, blending an aging core with an influx of youth to finish second in the Eastern Conference. Though their playoff run ended in the second round, the season underscored a bright future under GM Chris Patrick.

Ryan Leonard, McKeen’s fifth-ranked prospect, leads the way. After a dazzling two-year career at Boston University (61 goals and 109 points in 78 games) the NCAA standout joined the Capitals late and is poised for a full time NHL role in 2025-26.

The junior ranks saw offensive explosions across the board. Andrew Cristall capped his WHL career with a staggering 132 points, bringing his final tally to 412 in 248 games. Ilya Protas, younger brother of NHLer Alexei, made a spectacular OHL debut, finishing second in league scoring with 124 points. Patrick Thomas, a 2023 fourth-round pick, nearly doubled his career best with 104 points. On the back end, 2024 second rounder Cole Hutson tied Zeev Buium for the NCAA scoring lead among defensemen with 48 points.

Several prospects—forward Ivan Miroshnichenko, defenseman Ryan Chesley, and blueliner Vincent Iorio—will be pushing hard to earn NHL spots next season, adding further competition to an already deep group.

Although Washington entered the 2025 draft with just five picks, they managed to bring in intriguing additions. Most notable was towering WHL forward Lynden Lakovic in the first round, followed by skilled winger Milton Gastrin in the second. Both debut in the team’s top 15 prospects.

Under Spencer Carbery, the Capitals have managed a rare feat of staying competitive while steadily developing their next generation. With the league’s most prolific goal scorer, Alex Ovechkin, still chasing milestones, the Stanley Cup window remains open—now supported by a wave of high-upside youth ready to contribute.

Washington Capitals Top-15 Prospects

1 - Ryan Leonard

Ryan Leonard is the best prospect the Capitals have had in at least a decade, you probably need to go back as far as when Washington drafted Filip Forsberg in 2012 to find a prospect in this organization that was so highly touted. The USNDTP and Boston College standout was among the best players in college hockey over the past couple years, leading the nation in goals with 30 last season. Internationally, he captained the United States to a second straight World Junior Gold medal, while also bringing home tournament MVP honours. Though only standing at six feet, Leonard profiles as an ultra-competitive and highly-skilled power forward. He joined the Capitals late last season and played meaningful minutes down the stretch and in the postseason in Washington’s middle six. It won’t be long before Leonard is a top six fixture in DC, he has the upside to be a star.

2 - Cole Hutson

Washington fans had to be over the moon after seeing Cole Hutson’s performance at last year’s World Junior Championship. The expectation would be that he would play a key secondary role for the Americans, but nobody could have predicted that he would lead the tournament in scoring en route to a Gold Medal. The 2023 second-round pick also ended up leading the NCAA in scoring among blueliners, putting up 48 points in 39 games. The 5-foot-10 blueliner’s calling card is his confidence, which is supported by his creativity and agility, making him an absolute nightmare for opponents to defend. His hockey IQ and competitive nature help him on the defensive side of the puck, but he still has work to do in that regard before he turns pro. Hutson will be back at Boston University again this season, and will be one of the best players in college hockey.

3 - Andrew Cristall

A lot of WHL defencemen must be thrilled that this is Cristall's final year in the league, because it means that his offensive reign of terror is coming to an end. To give you an idea of just how unstoppable he was, earlier this season he became just the first WHLer in the 21st century to amass 400 regular season points. A mid-season trade to Spokane only made him more dangerous, clicking immediately with fellow dynamo Berkly Catton. He’s creative, his offensive vision is razor-sharp, and he’s a wizard with the puck on his stick. So then why did he slide to the second-round in the 2023 draft and get snubbed by Hockey Canada for the World Juniors? Simply put, he’s a poor skater for a guy his size and plays at a low pace, which can sometimes make him a 200-foot liability. Cristall will need to be developed and deployed appropriately and carefully in order to translate his current success to the NHL.

4 - Ilya Protas

What a season it was for Ilya Protas, as he made the jump to the OHL with the Windsor Spitfries. He and the Spitfires took the league by storm, jumping to the top of the standings, and a lot of that can be attributed to the remarkable performance of Protas. The big winger is such a well rounded and intelligent offensive player. He’s highly skilled. He has great vision with the puck and demonstrates the poise of a player who you’d assume already has pro experience. He’s a committed two-way player who was utilized by Windsor in all situations. Like his brother Aliaksei, who just enjoyed a breakout year for the Washington Capitals, the only thing missing from his game is dynamic skating ability. Improving his quickness and agility will be paramount to his NHL success. The question is, where does Protas play next year? He could return to Windsor for another year or he could turn pro and play in the AHL as a 19/20 year old. Either choice would have potential drawbacks and benefits.

5 - Ivan Miroschnichenko

Even if his play in the NHL remains a work in progress, Miroschnichenko’s second pro season in North America had to be considered a mild success. He established himself as an excellent goal scorer at the AHL level with Hershey and he’s learning how to best utilize his shot and strength on North American ice. It’s easy to forget that he’s only 21, the age that most CHL players begin their pro journey; Miroschnichenko played in the AHL as an “underager” two seasons ago. With a few contracts coming off the books this offseason, one has to wonder if Miroschnichenko will be given every opportunity to earn a top nine role with the Capitals next season. His combination of skating ability, strength on the puck, and scoring instincts makes him the ideal complementary winger for a creative playmaking pivot. He could easily develop into a perennial 25 goal scorer for Washington in the near future and someone who can help ease the eventual transition post Alex Ovechkin.

6 - Lynden Lakovic

It’s still early, but the Capitals getting to add Lakovic at 27th overall currently looks like one of the best value picks of the 2025 draft. The Moose Jaw winger and team captain finished 13th overall on the final McKeen's ranking, and was even higher than that at earlier points in the season, because he absolutely oozes upside. For someone of his height he’s surprisingly slick and slippery with the puck, he’s quite coordinated as a skater, and his vision and creativity as a playmaker can’t be beat by many prospects out there. Oddly enough, the biggest knock on his game right now is that he’s too much of a gentle giant, shying away from contact more than he should and failing to take better advantage of his natural physical tools. Can that still be taught to him, or is it an inherent part of his personality? The Capitals are hoping that it’s the former, because if they can help Lakovic unlock that part of his game then there’s no telling just how good he could become.

7 - Ryan Chesley

Ryan Chesley, a 2022 second-round pick of the Capitals, was a steady presence on the back end for the University of Minnesota for the last three seasons. While he did show growth offensively by cracking the 20 point plateau in his third collegiate season, he is predominantly a defensive defenceman. Chesley loves to play the body, but also is a good enough skater that he can be very effective in shutting down rush chances. On retrievals and in transition, Chesley is good at making quick, effective reads and getting the puck up ice. In college he would occasionally jump up in the play, but that likely won’t be very prevalent in his game at the pro level. He projects as a safe, dependable, stay at home defender that comfortably fits on a third pairing but has upside to contribute on a second pairing. He will continue his development in Hershey this season.

8 - Terik Parascak

There was an expectation coming in this season that Parascak's point totals might come back down to Earth a little, especially now that he's no longer the unknown and unexpected scoring phenom that he was at the beginning of last year. That has indeed happened, but he has also proven that his breakout campaign wasn't just some kind of fluke. This is one driven, highly intelligent young player who just keeps erasing doubts about his underwhelming strength and skating ability. Few can match his instincts and anticipation in the offensive zone, which causes pucks to gravitate to his stick right before he strikes quickly with them. And despite lacking size he's not afraid to go into the dirty areas and absorb some punishment to help create scoring chances. There's still a lot of work to be done, and the Capitals will need to be patient, but Parascak has the potential to become a useful complementary piece in an NHL roster puzzle.

9 - Vincent Iorio

Iorio has essentially hit a crossroads in his development. The big right shot defender has the tools to be a quality bottom pairing defender in the NHL. He is mobile. He makes a great first pass. He competes physically and takes away space. Offensively, he’s not a standout; he’s not a skilled puckhandler or someone confident in jumping up in the play. He’s content with being that stable, stay at home defender. The issue is that the Capitals just don’t have room for him right now. That becomes an even larger issue next year when he is no longer exempt from waivers. If he performs well in camp, does Washington move out someone like Trevor Van Riemsdyk? Does he beat out someone like Declan Chisholm to earn the seventh defender spot? Either way, Iorio’s future with the Capitals may just be decided soon.

10 - Justin Sourdif

Justin Sourdif's scoring pace improved from his first two years in the AHL as he continues to refine his game at the pro level. Justin plays a well-rounded game, adding value both on and off the puck. His hands and ability to muscle through traffic are impressive, and he gets to the dirty areas to look for rebounds, making him an effective transitional player suitable for the NHL. Sourdif's shot has mystified AHL goaltenders this year as his release is a bit unorthodox and comes off quick. On the defensive end, Sourdif grinds hard on the backcheck to break up plays and is skilled at recovering pucks off the boards in scrums. After the Capitals paid a steep price to acquire Sourdif, he will likely see the NHL sooner rather than later. It wouldn’t be a shock to see Sourdif playing a valuable role in the Capitals' bottom six within the next two years.

11 - Milton Gastrin

A long-time captain in Sweden’s junior program, Gastrin is your prototypical hardworking forward who can play the game any way it comes. Possessing great straight-line speed, Gastrin is hard on the forecheck and relentless in his puck pursuit. He brings the size, skills, and hockey IQ to one day be an above average lower line forward entrusted with yeoman duties. It’s very possible that there’ll be more in the tank offensively down the line.

12 - Eriks Mateiko

We’ve loved Matiko’s size/aggressiveness combination for several years now, but the hulking winger put things into overdrive this winter. One of the most impressive goal scorers at the 2025 WJC, Mateiko then took serious flight with the Rimouski Océanic in their Memorial Cup hosting run after a midseason trade from Saint John. We saw improved passing, positional responsibility, and puck pressuring, with smarts and skills added to his previous intensity. What can he do for an encore?

13 - Leon Muggli

With a few shifts for the Hershey Bears this past spring, Muggli concluded a 2024-25 season that - statwise - was rather bland for a prospect who was one of the biggest risers in his draft year. More indicative of his progress was the often gaudy amount of ice time he got for EV Zug this past season, spent entirely as an 18-year-old. Still eligible for the upcoming WJC, Muggli is expected to establish himself in the AHL this season.

14 - Cam Allen

A solidly built RHD with a variety of tools, Allen has constantly left the scouting community wanting more since his 2023 draft season, one that saw him drop to the fifth round. The doubts continued in his injury-shortened DY+1 but found a wonderful end after a midseason trade to the OHL champs - and Memorial Cup-winning - London Knights, with whom he excelled as a multifaceted player who can play the game anyway it comes. His pro career starts this season.

15 - David Gucciardi

Coming off a quietly successful four-year tenure at Michigan State, including an outstanding senior season for the highly ranked Spartans, Gucciardi features a lot more puck-moving ability and rush-joining mobility than his numbers to date may indicate. Having concluded this past season on an ATO with the AHL affiliate, including his first pro goal, Gucciardi is scheduled to become a full-time pro this season and could be one of four Capitals-drafted blueline prospects in Hershey.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #9 Washington Capitals – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:21:07 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 04: Capitals right wing Ryan Leonard (9) skates up ice during the Chicago Blackhawks versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on April 4, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

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Washington 25 Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #15

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Josh Bell — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 18:00:33 +0000

_{BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 12: Boston College forward Ryan Leonard (9) holds the puck during the Beanpot Consolation game between Boston College and Harvard on February 12, 2024, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 15th (Previous Rank - 14th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

The mission in Washington remains clear: help Alex Ovechkin break the all-time goals record. But while the focus is on Ovechkin’s pursuit, the Capitals’ prospect system has quietly made significant strides in our McKeen’s rankings, jumping from 27th to 14th in just one calendar year. The biggest catalyst for this rise has been the addition of Ryan Leonard, who ranks eighth overall in our prospect rankings.

Leonard, still only 19, has quickly established himself as a dominant force in the NCAA, not only putting up impressive numbers at both the collegiate and international levels but also playing with a tenacity that makes him one of the most exciting young prospects in the game. After a standout freshman season at Boston College, the Massachusetts native will return for his sophomore year, but it’s likely that Capitals fans could see him make his NHL debut by the end of the season.

If Leonard makes the jump, he’ll join a list of young graduates, including Connor McMichael, Hendrix Lapierre, and Alexei Protas. This, in addition to the already established core of Ovechkin, John Carlson, Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and new acquisitions Pierre-Luc Dubois and Andrew Mangiapane.

Additionally, a fully healthy Ivan Miroshnichenko (45th) could soon make his mark after splitting time between Washington and Hershey in his first North American season. Although, he’s likely to start the year in Hershey, where he’ll be joined by recent undrafted signing Zac Funk, who exploded in the WHL with 67 goals and 123 points for the Prince George Cougars. Meanwhile, Andrew Cristall (104th) and recently drafted Terik Parascak (155th) will continue their development in junior hockey as they push toward their futures with the Capitals.

On the defensive side, reinforcements are on the way in the form of Ryan Chesley (216th), Cole Hutson (246th), Cam Allen, and Leon Muggli (258th), but the system could still use more high-pedigree defenders. The recent additions of Rasmus Sandin and Jakob Chychrun help mitigate the need, but with John Carlson aging, addressing the blueline remains a priority for the organization.

Washington Capitals Top-15 Prospects

1. Ryan Leonard

Fresh off an eighth overall selection by the Capitals, Ryan Leonard didn't disappoint in his freshman year at Boston College. The 18-year-old forward lived up to his billing as a power winger, lighting up the NCAA with 31 goals and 60 points in 41 games. His offensive zone anticipation and understanding of spacing help him to consistently find soft spots in coverage and his quick release helps him to take advantage of those opportunities more often than not. Leonard wasn't just a one-dimensional scorer, either. He showed a willingness to play a physical brand of hockey and contributed positively away from the puck. His performance was a key factor in Boston College's deep playoff run. While the jump to the NHL is significant, his dominant season has undoubtedly bolstered excitement surrounding his future in Washington. He looks like a future top six winger with a well-rounded skill set and a knack for finding the net.

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko

Ivan Miroshnichenko's 2023-24 season was a whirlwind. Drafted in the first round by the Capitals in 2022, his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma overshadowed his on-ice development. However, his resilience shone through. After a successful return to the ice, he impressed in the AHL with the Hershey Bears, notching 25 points in 47 games. The Capitals even gave him a taste of the NHL, scoring his first career goal in his fifth appearance, and sticking around for 21 games. While the sample size is small, the goal that he scored showcased his lethal shot – the same weapon that made him a top draft pick. The season wasn't without its hiccups. Questions about his compete level and overall consistency remain. Still, for a player overcoming a serious illness, his performance is encouraging. The team will likely give him more AHL seasoning this year, but with his raw talent, a full-time NHL push in 2024-25 isn't out of the question.

3. Andrew Cristall

Andrew Cristall, a dynamic left winger, made waves in the 2023-24 season with the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 174 pounds, the Vancouver native possesses a combination of speed, agility, and puck-handling skills that set him apart. His ability to create scoring opportunities and his willingness to drive to the net makes him a force to be reckoned with. He starts plays, builds them up, and then adds the finishing touches, turning the mundane into brilliance. His head fakes, handling skills, and slick edges leave defenders guessing, while his perfectly weighted passes set up teammates for success. Drafted by the Capitals in the second round, the potential as a top six winger in the NHL is undeniable. His 40 goals and 71 assists in the regular season, along with 15 points in the playoffs, showcase his impact on the ice.

4. Terik Parascak

Terik Parascak is set to be one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, thanks to his unique profile and conflicting evaluations. After a limited role in the WHL as a 16-year-old, he soared to over 100 points at 17, shifting from a top goal-scorer to a playmaker. While some scouts see him as a potential top six NHL forward, others worry he might never reach the league. His impressive point totals highlight his high hockey IQ, with excellent awareness, anticipation, and decision-making. He consistently shows great effort and never seems to take a shift off. However, concerns linger about whether his success will translate to higher levels, given his average physical tools and skating. His standout performance might be a product of playing on a strong offensive team in a weak division. The Capitals’ fortune will hinge on whether Parascak evolves into a standout like Joe Pavelski or remains a reliable AHL player.

5. Ryan Chesley

Ryan Chesley's sophomore year at Minnesota wasn't a flashy offensive showcase, but it solidified his reputation as a reliable defensive force. Drafted 37th overall in 2022, Chesley's point totals dipped slightly (two goals, six assists) compared to his freshman year, but his defensive impact grew. He led the Big Ten in blocked shots (74) and emerged as a shutdown specialist. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. However, his offensive potential remains low. There are glimpses of a strong shot and smart puck movement, but consistency remains elusive. His development in the offensive zone will be crucial. Can he become a more well-rounded defenceman, or will his value lie primarily in his defensive dominance? The answer will determine his NHL ceiling. Regardless, the defensive prowess gives him a strong foundation to build on.

6. Vincent Iorio

Vincent Iorio's 2023-24 season was a grind in the AHL. The hulking defenceman (6-foot-4, 200 pounds) spent the year with the Hershey Bears, chipping in a respectable 14 points in 76 games, earning a spot in six NHL games. While the point total doesn't overwhelm, Iorio's biggest value lies in his defensive presence. He uses his size effectively to shut down attackers and is a force along the boards. However, offensive limitations remain a concern. His skating is a work in progress, and his puck-moving ability lacks creativity. While glimpses of offensive potential exist, consistency is lacking. The question becomes can he develop his offensive tools enough to become a well-rounded NHL defenceman? Another year in the AHL seems likely to refine his game. If his skating and decision-making with the puck can improve, he has the potential to be a reliable bottom-pairing defender in the NHL.

7. Cole Hutson

Montreal Canadiens fans are excited about Lane Hutson, but younger brother Cole might bring even more thrill to Captials’ fans. This offensive defenceman set the NTDP record for points by a defender and excelled at the World Under-18s, proving himself as one of the top defenders in the tournament. He’s set to join Boston University this season, stepping into his brother’s former role. Hutson’s offensive talent is undeniable. He can dominate from the back end, dictate play, and lead the attack with creativity and skillful maneuvers. His skating and vision are exceptional, allowing him to navigate traffic and find teammates effectively. Defensively, he holds his own but can get caught out, similar to his brother. While there’s some concern about how his game will translate to tougher competition, his high offensive ceiling suggests he could become a strong number three or four defender and a power-play quarterback.

8. Leon Muggli

Muggli stood out in his DY-1 season as a promising defensive defenceman with grit, and by the 2024 WJC, he had emerged as a top Swiss draft eligible prospect. His solid performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup was a precursor to a standout season, where he secured a spot with his NL club and quickly became a key player, logging over 18 minutes a night and up to 11 minutes per game in the playoffs. At the WJC, he played 27 minutes in an OT loss to Sweden and later captained Switzerland at the U18 Worlds before an injury cut his season short. Muggli is now regarded as the top draft-eligible defenceman from the NL since David Reinbacher. His game has seen impressive development across all zones, showcasing poise, confidence, and effective play both with and without the puck. Although he needs to improve his strength and mobility, Muggli’s potential and safe playstyle make him an intriguing prospect.

9. Clay Stevenson

Clay Stevenson, a 6-foot-4 goaltender, made waves in the 2023-24 season playing for the AHL’s Hershey Bears. In 36 games, he secured 24 wins and boasts a 0.922 save percentage, a GAA of 2.06, along with seven shutouts. His technical skills, combined with his size and agility, make him a formidable presence in the net. He has been tremendous for the last two seasons, with reading plays and stopping pucks being his strong suit. He is really putting himself on the map as a goalie prospect to own. However, he faces a challenge with the contracts in front of him at the AHL level, and being 24, he needs a shot sooner rather than later. He will continue to battle for the starting role in the AHL this season. He is definitely a prospect to keep an eye on as he continues to develop his game.

10. Alexander Suzdalev

In the 2023-24 hockey season, Alexander Suzdalev showcased a masterful blend of finesse and power on the ice, solidifying his status as a promising prospect. With lightning speed and deft puck-handling skills, he consistently outmaneuvered opponents, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His hockey IQ was on full display, as he demonstrated a keen ability to read the play and make split-second decisions under pressure. Throughout the season, his dedication to his craft was evident, as he relentlessly honed his skills both on and off the ice. His commitment to excellence earned him the admiration of fans and scouts alike, who recognized his potential to make a significant impact at the next level. As he continues to develop and refine his game, he remains a player to watch closely and could make waves on the Capitals squad.

11. Eriks Mateiko

Erik Mateiko remains a potential sleeper from his year's draft, having played on underperforming teams in the QMJHL and for Latvia. Standing at 6-foot-5, he's a powerful skater with a mix of strength and finesse, excelling in battles and handling the puck. While his shooting and passing are competent rather than standout, his upside remains intriguing. Though his projections are uncertain, he was worth the gamble as he has some high-reward potential.

12. Ilya Protas

While not as prominent as his brother Alexei, Ilya shares similar potential as a middle-six forward. While both players struggle with skating and using their size effectively, Ilya has particularly heavy boots and a need to get more physical. Despite these issues, he possesses strong playmaking skills and excellent vision. Lacking the dominant flashes Alexei showed, Ilya remains more of a project. Expect him to join the CHL next year now that import restrictions are lifted.

13. Ethen Frank

Ethen Frank built on his impressive rookie season in 2023-24, emerging as a top AHL scorer with 47 points (29 goals, 18 assists) for Hershey. Known for his speed, he repeated as the league’s fastest skater. Although he was relied upon in various situations, inconsistency at times affected his offensive impact. Improving decision-making could elevate his game further. With continued development, Frank is on track for an NHL call-up and could become a solid middle-six forward.

14. Pierrick Dube

Pierrick Dube’s 2023-24 season showcased his offensive prowess, with a career-high 48 points (28 goals, 20 assists) for the Hershey Bears. Despite a brief, scoreless NHL stint, his AHL performance highlighted his scoring ability and offensive flair. However, concerns about his defensive play and consistency persist. If Dube can refine his defensive game and maintain his scoring, he’s well-positioned for a full-time NHL role. Another strong AHL season could seal his promotion.

15. Zac Funk

The undrafted Zac Funk exploded this past season in the WHL, putting up a 123-point season, leading the league in goals (67), and earning a contract with the Capitals. His quick hands and strong puck control allow him to navigate tight spaces effectively. While his skating could benefit from further development, Funk’s high hockey IQ and scoring touch offer significant upside.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #14 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:44:59 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 22: Washington Capitals left wing Ivan Miroshnichenko (63) in action during the Carolina Hurricanes game versus the Washington Capitals on March 22, 2024 at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire)

Stanley Cup winners in 2018, the Capitals lost in the first round the following four seasons, missed in 2022-23, and then got swept by the Rangers this season. It was likely expected though, as the team has spent the past two seasons selling off assets as part of a retool vs. a rebuild. They’ve moved on from Marcus Johansson, Dmitry Orlov, Garnet Hathaway, Erik Gustafsson, Lars Eller, Anthony Mantha, and Evgeny Kuznetsov, adding picks mainly in the second and third rounds, as well as young defender Rasmus Sandin. The Capitals have all of their first-round picks over the next three years and have an additional 11 picks over that time in rounds two and three. Despite this, it’s hard to believe that the Capitals won’t go for it for a couple more years, with Alex Ovechkin under contract for two more seasons, along with John Carlson. There is hope that Niklas Backstrom can return next season for the last year of his contract too.

The Capitals have some strong young pieces as well. Connor McMichael, Alex Protas, Hendrix Lapierre, and Alex Alexeyev are all officially NHLers the past two seasons, and it looks like Ivan Miroshnichenko is right behind them after playing 21 games this season and looking strong, with Hodgkin’s lymphoma now behind him. The pipeline also has some strong pieces knocking at the door, headlined by 2023 eighth-overall pick Ryan Leonard. In that same draft, they selected an absolute steal of a pick in Andrew Cristall 40th overall. They join a system that still has strong pieces such as Ryan Chesley, Vincent Iorio, Alex Suzdalev, and Clay Stevenson. The club has done well at building for the future without giving up too much of a competitive edge, though they will be looking for a return to contention before Ovi’s time is done.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Ryan Leonard	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	`23(8th)	41	31	29	60	38
2	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	20	6-1/185	Hershey (AHL)	`22(20th)	47	9	16	25	13
					Washington (NHL)	`22(20th)	21	2	4	6	6
3	Andrew Cristall	LW	19	5-9/165	Kelowna (WHL)	`23(40th)	62	40	71	111	46
4	Ryan Chesley	D	20	6-0/200	Minnesota (B1G)	`22(37th)	39	2	6	8	19
5	Vincent Iorio	D	21	6-2/190	Hershey (AHL)	`21(55th)	60	4	10	14	30
5	Vincent Iorio	D	21	6-2/190	Washington (NHL)	`21(55th)	6	0	0	0	0
6	Clay Stevenson	G	25	6-4/195	Hershey (AHL)	FA(3/22)	36	24	10	2.06	0.922
7	Alexander Suzdalev	LW	20	6-2/175	Saskatoon (WHL)	`22(70th)	30	9	16	25	4
8	Pierrick Dube	RW	23	5-9/175	Hershey (AHL)	FA(7/23)	66	28	20	48	53
					Washington (NHL)	FA(7/23)	3	0	0	0	2
9	Ethen Frank	C	26	5-11/185	Hershey (AHL)	FA(3/23)	64	29	18	47	14
10	Bogdan Trineyev	RW	22	6-3/200	Hershey (AHL)	`20(117th)	63	9	7	16	18
11	Brent Johnson	D	21	5-11/165	Ohio State (B1G)	`21(80th)	37	5	8	13	8
12	Joaquim Lemay	D	21	6-1/180	Omaha (NCHC)	`21(119th)	37	5	13	18	18
13	Patrick Thomas	C	19	5-11/160	Brantford (OHL)	`23(104th)	57	21	45	66	10
14	Cam Allen	D	19	6-0/195	Guelph (OHL)	`23(136th)	25	2	7	9	23
15	David Gucciardi	D	21	6-1/185	Michigan State (B1G)	`22(213th)	30	2	6	8	47

1. Ryan Leonard, RW, Boston College (NCAA)

Fresh off an eighth overall selection by the Capitals, Ryan Leonard didn't disappoint in his freshman year at Boston College. The 18-year-old forward lived up to his billing as a power winger, lighting up the NCAA with 31 goals and 60 points in 41 games. His offensive zone anticipation and understanding of spacing helps him to consistently find soft spots in coverage and his quick release helps him to take advantage of those opportunities more often than not. Leonard wasn't just a one-dimensional scorer, either. He showed a willingness to play a physical brand of hockey and contributed positively away from the puck. His performance was a key factor in Boston College's deep playoff run. While the jump to the NHL is significant, his dominant season has undoubtedly bolstered excitement surrounding his future in Washington. He looks like a future top six winger with a well-rounded skill set and a knack for finding the net.

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Ivan Miroshnichenko's 2023-24 season was a whirlwind. Drafted in the first round by the Capitals in 2022, his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma overshadowed his on-ice development. However, his resilience shone through. After a successful return to the ice, he impressed in the AHL with the Hershey Bears, notching 25 points in 47 games. The Capitals even gave him a taste of the NHL, scoring his first career goal in his fifth appearance, and sticking around for 21 games. While the sample size is small, the goal showcased his lethal shot – the same weapon that made him a top draft pick. The season wasn't without its hiccups. Questions about his compete level and overall consistency remain. Still, for a player overcoming a serious illness, his performance is encouraging. The team will likely give him more AHL seasoning next year, but with his raw talent, a full-time NHL push in 2024-25 isn't out of the question.

3. Andrew Cristall, LW, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

Andrew Cristall, a dynamic left winger, made waves in the 2023-24 season with the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL. Standing at 5’ 10” and weighing 174 pounds, the Vancouver native possesses a combination of speed, agility, and puck-handling skills that set him apart. His ability to create scoring opportunities and his willingness to drive to the net makes him a force to be reckoned with. He starts plays, builds them up, and then adds the finishing touches, turning the mundane into brilliance. His head fakes, handling skills, and slick edges leave defenders guessing, while his perfectly weighted passes set up teammates for success. Drafted by the Capitals in the second round, the potential as a top-six winger in the NHL is undeniable. His 40 goals and 71 assists in the regular season, along with 15 points in the playoffs, showcase his impact on the ice.

4. Ryan Chesley, D, University of Minnesota (NCAA)

Ryan Chesley's sophomore year at Minnesota wasn't a flashy offensive showcase, but it solidified his reputation as a reliable defensive force. Drafted 37th overall in 2022, Chesley's point totals dipped slightly (two goals, six assists) compared to his freshman year, but his defensive impact grew. He led the Big Ten in blocked shots (74) and emerged as a shutdown specialist. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. However, his offensive potential remains low. There are glimpses of a strong shot and smart puck movement, but consistency remains elusive. His development in the offensive zone will be crucial. Can he become a more well-rounded defenseman, or will his value lie primarily in his defensive dominance? The answer will determine his NHL ceiling. Regardless, the defensive prowess gives him a strong foundation to build on.

5. Vincent Iorio, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Vincent Iorio's 2023-24 season was a grind in the AHL. The hulking defenseman (6’ 4”, 200 lbs) spent the year with the Hershey Bears, chipping in a respectable 14 points in 76 games, earning a spot in six NHL games. While the point total doesn't overwhelm, Iorio's biggest value lies in his defensive presence. He uses his size effectively to shut down attackers and is a force along the boards. However, offensive limitations remain a concern. His skating is a work in progress, and his puck-moving ability lacks creativity. While glimpses of offensive potential exist, consistency is lacking. The question becomes: can he develop his offensive tools enough to become a well-rounded NHL defenseman? Another year in the AHL seems likely to refine his game. If his skating and decision-making with the puck can improve, he has the potential to be a reliable bottom-pairing defender in the NHL.

6. Clay Stevenson, G, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Clay Stevenson, a 6’ 4” goaltender, made waves in the 2023-24 season playing for the AHL’s Hershey Bears. In 36 games, he secured 24 wins and boasts a 0.922 save percentage, a GAA of 2.06, along with seven shutouts. His technical skills, combined with his size and agility, make him a formidable presence in the net. He has been tremendous for the last two seasons, with reading plays and stopping pucks being his strong suit. He is really putting himself on the map as a goalie prospect to own. However, he faces a challenge with the contracts in front of him at the AHL level, and being 24, he needs a shot sooner than later. He will continue to battle for the starting role in the AHL this season. He is definitely a prospect to keep an eye on as he continues to develop his game.

7. Alexander Suzdalev, LW, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

8. Pierrick Dube, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Pierrick Dube's 2023-24 season was a tale of perseverance and glimpses of NHL potential. After a brief, scoreless call-up with the Capitals, he spent the bulk of the year dominating the AHL with the Hershey Bears. He notched a career-high 48 points (28 goals, 20 assists) in 66 games, showcasing his offensive flair and ability to find the net. However, questions about his overall game persist. While the offensive production is undeniable, his defensive awareness and consistency remain a work in progress. Can he translate his scoring prowess to the NHL while holding his own in his own zone? His performance suggests he's knocking on the door of the NHL. Another strong AHL season could solidify his case for a full-time promotion. However, refining his defensive play will be crucial in determining his NHL ceiling.

9. Ethen Frank, C, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Ethen Frank continued his ascent in 2023-24, building on his impressive rookie campaign. The 25-year-old winger solidified himself as a top scorer in the AHL with Hershey, notching 47 points (29 goals, 18 assists) in 64 games. He even repeated as the league's fastest skater at the All-Star competition. More and more as the season went on, he was relied on in all situations instead of just offensively and was up to the task. However, his season wasn't without its challenges. While the scoring pace was impressive, there were stretches where he wasn't a consistent offensive threat. There's a sense that he can elevate his game further by improving his decision-making. Despite these areas for growth, performance to date puts him on the NHL path. He's knocking on the door for a call-up, and with continued development, could become a solid middle-six forward at the next level.

10. Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Bogdan Trineyev's 2023-24 season wasn't a breakout campaign, but it offered glimpses of his potential. The big Russian winger (6’ 3”, 203 lbs) spent the entire year with the Hershey Bears. His stat line – 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) in 63 games – isn't overly impressive, but there's a caveat. Trineyev's heavy frame and strong skating suggest a power forward in the making. However, questions about his offensive awareness and puck skills linger. While he can be a force on the forecheck and win board battles, translating that into consistent scoring remains a work in progress. There were positive signs. He showed flashes of a scoring touch, and his physicality was a constant asset. But overall, his development was more grind than highlight reel. The upcoming season will be crucial. Can he refine his offensive instincts and become a more well-rounded threat? The answer could determine if he reaches his NHL potential as a bottom-six force or remains an AHL grinder.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 30 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 12:22:26 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first, this ranking, follows the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Our team of 16 scouts are based in key markets around the world, in the rinks, supported by video scouting. They utilize some terrific tools from Hudl/InStat, which can isolate so many aspects of a player’s game, along with proprietary statistics. They spend countless hours in rinks and in front of screens and are deeply familiar with these players and their progression. Our management team of Brock Otten (Director of Scouting) and Derek Neumeier (Assistant Director of Scouting/Senior Western Regional Scout), along with Video Scouting Coordinator, Josh Bell, will take the teams input and finalize the list you see below. Brock, Derek and Josh are responsible for the player write-ups in the Prospect Guide.

The organizational rankings are based on an algorithm that takes into account how many prospects are ranked within the top 200. The teams are broken down by the number of prospects in our top 1 -25, 26 - 50, 51 - 100, and 101 - 200. A weight is attached to each group and then some subjective tweaking is done based on our knowledge of the players. There can be a wider discrepancy in the top 25 group than the latter groupings that needs to be taken into account.

Here is our definition of an NHL prospect: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 NHL games (30 for goalies) and less than 35 in one season (25 for goalies).

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft. We are releasing out top 30 NHL Prospects free to non-subscribers. If you want to learn more, link here.

Subscribers can link to the full top 200 listing here

Here is an excerpt of Brock Otten's Risers and Fallers article from the magazine to give you more perspective and a little taste of our content.

The best part of scouting is the somewhat unpredictable nature of human development. Some players improve dramatically from one year to the next…others do not. When we compare the rankings from our 2023-24 NHL Yearbook (where we did a Top 300 prospect ranking) to now, these are the players who have risen/fallen the most.

Risers

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 22: Dallas Stars center Logan Stankoven (11) reacts to a goal score during game one of the Western Conference First Round between the Dallas Stars and the Vegas Golden Knights on April 22, 2024 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire)

Logan Stankoven (27 to 5) - Dallas Stars

Stankoven’s jump from one of the best players in the WHL to one of the best players in the AHL has been impressive. So has his quick start in the NHL.

Ryan Leonard (32 to 6) – Washington Capitals

Leonard is returning to Boston College after a Championship barely eluded him this year. However, he has proven to be an elite play driver to go with his strong off puck play.

MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 11: Look on Montreal Canadiens right wing Joshua Roy (89) during warm-up before the St. Louis Blues versus the Montreal Canadiens game on February 11, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

Josh Roy (63 to 35) – Montreal Canadiens

Roy continues to prove doubters wrong after a terrific AHL season with Laval. His skill set has become so well rounded since being drafted.

Conor Geekie (68 to 18) – Utah

Geekie’s power game from the middle of the ice makes him such an interesting prospect for today’s NHL. His skating continues to improve.

Mavrik Bourque (79 to 23) – Dallas Stars

Bourque emerged as one of the best players in the AHL this season as a sophomore professional. He’s ready to take that next step with the Stars.

Gabe Perreault (86 to 19) – New York Rangers

Once thought to be the third wheel on the talented Will Smith/Ryan Leonard threesome, Perreault’s progression as a play driver at Boston College this season has altered the perception that he can be a front-line NHL player.

Bradly Nadeau (109 to 34) – Carolina Hurricanes

Drafting early out of the BCHL has yielded inconsistent results, however Nadeau was exceptional as a freshman at Maine. Did he leave school too early though?

Jagger Firkus (112 to 47) – Seattle Kraken

Firkus took his game to another level this year in his final WHL season, leading the league in scoring. He’s ready to be a pro.

Gavin Brindley (122 to 66) – Columbus Blue Jackets

One of the most improved players in the NCAA this year, Brindley emerged as a star for the University of Michigan and really altered his projection as a potential top six forward.

Quentin Musty (125 to 51) – San Jose Sharks

The dynamic American winger worked hard to fine tune components of his game in Sudbury this year and deserves a bump for improving his consistency.

Jani Nyman (135 to 81) – Seattle Kraken

Nyman emerged as one of the top goal scorers in Finland this season as a U20 player. This, combined with his strong WJC performance, has helped push him up our board north.

Logan Mailloux (145 to 45) – Montreal Canadiens

Mailloux proved to be way more refined at the AHL level than previously perceived. Simply put, he was one of the best defensive prospects in the AHL this year.

Josh Doan (153 to 55) - Utah

What a terrific story to the end of the Coyotes franchise. Doan emerged as a potential star this season and finished the year strong in the NHL, scoring in his debut.

Riley Heidt (157 to 44) – Minnesota Wild

We still don’t understand how Heidt fell as far as he did in the 2023 draft, however he is proving NHL scouts wrong thus far after a remarkable year with Prince George.

Ville Koivunen (165 to 71) – Pittsburgh Penguins

The main piece of the Jake Guentzel to Carolina deal, Koivunen emerged as one of the top players in Liiga this year.

Ethan Del Mastro (169 to 73) – Chicago Blackhawks

There was little doubt that Del Mastro’s strong defensive ability would translate to the AHL level well, but he continues to improve offensively and that has altered his projection.

Theo Lindstein (185 to 91) – St. Louis Blues

Lindstein’s strong year for Brynas has helped to elevate his upside as a two-way defender. We may have ranked him too low in our 2023 Draft Rankings.

Carson Rehkopf (201 to 69) – Seattle Kraken

Consistency off the puck and a lack of engagement held Rehkopf back last year. This year marked improvement in those areas helped him emerge as a top offensive talent in the OHL.

Easton Cowan (204 to 67) – Toronto Maple Leafs

One of the surprises of the 2023 draft, Cowan set a new OHL record with a 42-game point streak. More than just a high energy guy now, he can be a difference maker offensively.

Seamus Casey (214 to 63) – New Jersey Devils

Casey continues to improve in the NCAA. He may not have elite size, but he has everything else, and it has the Devils excited about his future.

Jacob Fowler (222 to 52) – Montreal Canadiens

Fowler compiled a list of accolades as a freshman this year at Boston College, emerging as one of the top goaltending prospects in the game.

Fraser Minten (226 to 84) – Toronto Maple Leafs

After starting the year with the Leafs, Minten returned to the WHL and ended up captaining Canada at the World Juniors.

Jackson Blake (277 to 117) – Carolina Hurricanes

A finalist for the Hobey Baker this year, Blake became an NCAA star for North Dakota, and he now turns pro.

Erik Portillo (Unranked to 118) – Los Angeles Kings

Acquired by the Kings, Portillo turned pro after three years at Michigan and he was one of the best goaltenders in the AHL as a first-year pro.

Rodwin Dionicio (Unranked to 139) – Anaheim Ducks

Dionicio still plays a high risk, high reward game from the back end, but his offensive upside has become too large to ignore.

Fallers

EDM - Xavier Bourgault

Xavier Bourgault (from 48 to 113) – Edmonton Oilers

After a mediocre first professional year last season, Bourgault was even more disappointing as a sophomore with Bakersfield. The Oilers just haven’t been developing prospects well in recent years.

Eduard Sale (72 to 140) – Seattle Kraken

Sale’s first year in North America did not go according to plan as he struggled to be a consistent impact player in the OHL.

Jack Rathbone (96 to not ranked) – Pittsburgh Penguins

Perhaps we ranked Rathbone too aggressively this summer, but not only did he fail to earn a spot on Vancouver, but he’s now an NHL after thought after entering Pittsburgh’s organization via trade.

Jacob Perreault (127 to not ranked) – Montreal Canadiens

Perreault’s off puck play and skating just haven’t improved to the point where he can be a consistent pro and it caused the Ducks to move on from him, trading him to Montreal.

Jan Jenik (156 to not ranked) - Utah

Once a highly ranked prospect, Jenik continues to fall. He just hasn’t been able to take that next step and even passed through waivers this year unclaimed.

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17

2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 200 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 25 May 2024 17:02:31 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first is following the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft.

Subscribers can link to the listing here

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17
31	Brad Lambert	Wpg	C	20	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	64	21	34	55	38
32	Ivan Miroshnichenko	Wsh	LW	20	6-1/185	Washington (NHL)	21	2	4	6	6
33	Axel Sandin Pellikka	Det	D	19	5-11/180	Skelleftea (SHL)	39	10	8	18	17
34	Bradly Nadeau	Car	LW	18	5-10/165	Maine (HE)	37	19	27	46	12
35	Joshua Roy	Mtl	RW	20	6-0/190	Montreal (NHL)	23	4	5	9	0
36	Denton Mateychuk	CBJ	D	19	5-11/190	Moose Jaw (WHL)	52	17	58	75	31
37	Brayden Yager	Pit	C	19	5-11/165	Moose Jaw (WHL)	57	35	60	95	20
38	Calum Ritchie	Col	C	19	6-2/185	Oshawa (OHL)	50	28	52	80	20
39	Joakim Kemell	Nsh	RW	20	5-10/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	67	16	25	41	23
40	Colby Barlow	Wpg	LW	19	6-0/195	Owen Sound (OHL)	50	40	18	58	27
41	Jimmy Snuggerud	StL	RW	19	6-1/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	21	13	34	42
42	Matthew Coronato	Cgy	RW	21	5-10/183	Calgary (NHL)	34	3	6	9	4
43	Frank Nazar	Chi	C	20	5-10/180	Michigan (B1G)	41	17	24	41	18
44	Riley Heidt	Min	C	19	5-10/180	Prince George (WHL)	66	37	80	117	42
45	Logan Mailloux	Mtl	D	21	6-3/215	Laval (AHL)	72	14	33	47	91
46	Sebastian Cossa	Det	G	21	6-6/229	Grand Rapids (AHL)	40	22	9	2.41	0.913
47	Jagger Firkus	Sea	RW	20	5-10/155	Moose Jaw (WHL)	63	61	65	126	30
48	Mikhail Gulyayev	Col	D	19	5-11/170	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	64	4	8	12	8
49	Scott Morrow	Car	D	21	6-2/195	Massachusetts (HE)	37	6	24	30	25
50	Matthew Wood	Nsh	RW	19	6-3/195	Connecticut (HE)	35	16	12	28	43
51	Quentin Musty	SJ	LW	18	6-2/200	Sudbury (OHL)	53	43	59	102	72
52	Jacob Fowler	Mtl	G	19	6-1/215	Boston College (HE)	39	32	6	2.14	0.926
53	Fabian Lysell	Bos	RW	21	5-11/181	Providence (AHL)	56	15	35	50	37
54	Shakir Mukhamadullin	SJ	D	22	6-3/180	San Jose (AHL)	55	7	27	34	24
55	Josh Doan	Ari	RW	22	6-1/183	Arizona (NHL)	11	5	4	9	0
56	Thomas Bordeleau	SJ	C	22	5-9/180	San Jose (NHL)	27	6	5	11	18
57	Lian Bichsel	Dal	D	19	6-6/233	Rogle (SHL)	29	2	2	4	28
58	Nikolai Kovalenko	Col	RW	24	5-10/180	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	42	11	24	35	30
59	Aatu Raty	Van	C	21	6-2/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	72	18	34	52	18
60	Oliver Moore	Chi	C	19	5-11/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	9	24	33	8
61	Samuel Honzek	Cgy	LW	19	6-4/186	Vancouver (WHL)	33	10	21	31	18
62	Jakob Pelletier	Cgy	LW	23	5-9/170	Calgary (NHL)	13	1	2	3	2
63	Seamus Casey	NJ	D	20	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	7	38	45	14
64	Tristan Luneau	Ana	D	20	6-1/195	Anaheim (NHL)	7	1	2	3	4
65	Chaz Lucius	Wpg	C	20	6-1/185	Manitoba (AHL)	17	2	11	13	6
66	Gavin Brindley	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	25	28	53	28
67	Easton Cowan	Tor	RW	18	5-10/170	London (OHL)	54	34	62	96	64
68	Zachary L'Heureux	Nsh	LW	20	5-11/195	Milwaukee (AHL)	66	19	29	48	197
69	Carson Rehkopf	Sea	LW	19	6-1/195	Kitchener (OHL)	60	52	43	95	45
70	Filip Bystedt	SJ	C	20	6-4/205	Linkopings (SHL)	47	8	9	17	2
71	Ville Koivunen	Pit	LW	20	6-0/175	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	59	22	34	56	26
72	Noah Ostlund	Buf	C	20	5-11/163	Vaxjo Lakers (SHL)	38	12	11	23	4
73	Ethan Del Mastro	Chi	D	21	6-4/210	Rockford (AHL)	69	7	30	37	54
74	Lukas Cormier	VGK	D	22	5-10/180	Henderson (AHL)	58	4	16	20	33
75	Liam Ohgren	Min	LW	20	6-1/200	Farjestads (SHL)	26	12	7	19	12
76	Marat Khusnutdinov	Min	C	21	5-11/175	Minnesota (NHL)	16	1	3	4	6
77	Mackie Samoskevich	Fla	RW	21	5-11/190	Charlotte (AHL)	62	22	32	54	24
78	Stanislav Svozil	CBJ	D	21	6-1/180	Cleveland (AHL)	57	5	18	23	24
79	Zachary Bolduc	StL	LW	21	6-1/175	St. Louis (NHL)	25	5	4	9	6
80	Rutger McGroarty	Wpg	LW	20	6-1/200	Michigan (B1G)	36	16	36	52	6
81	Jani Nyman	Sea	RW	19	6-3/215	Ilves (Fin-Liiga)	48	26	17	43	2
82	Andrew Cristall	Wsh	LW	19	5-9/165	Kelowna (WHL)	62	40	71	111	46
83	Oliver Bonk	Phi	D	19	6-2/175	London (OHL)	60	24	43	67	32
84	Fraser Minten	Tor	C	19	6-1/185	Kam-Sas (WHL)	43	22	26	48	25
85	Tanner Molendyk	Nsh	D	19	5-11/185	Saskatoon (WHL)	50	10	46	56	18
86	David Goyette	Sea	C	20	5-10/175	Sudbury (OHL)	68	40	77	117	29
87	David Edstrom	SJ	C	19	6-3/185	Frolunda (SHL)	44	7	12	19	8
88	Anton Wahlberg	Buf	C	18	6-3/194	Malmo (SHL)	43	5	5	10	4
89	Emil Andrae	Phi	D	22	5-9/185	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	61	5	27	32	66
90	Trey Augustine	Det	G	19	6-1/185	Michigan State (B1G)	35	23	9	2.96	0.915
91	Theo Lindstein	StL	D	19	6-0/180	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	49	4	11	15	4
92	Mads Sogaard	Ott	G	23	6-7/195	Belleville (AHL)	32	18	9	2.45	0.916
93	Isak Rosen	Buf	RW	21	6-0/175	Rochester (AHL)	67	20	30	50	12
94	Maveric Lamoureux	Ari	D	20	6-7/214	Drummondville (QMJHL)	39	9	24	33	53
95	Drew Commesso	Chi	G	21	6-2/180	Rockford (AHL)	38	18	16	2.65	0.906
96	Ville Heinola	Wpg	D	23	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	41	10	17	27	24
97	Carter Mazur	Det	LW	22	6-0/170	Grand Rapids (AHL)	60	17	20	37	48
98	Otto Stenberg	StL	C	18	5-11/180	Frolunda (SHL)	31	3	3	6	8
99	Egor Afanasyev	Nsh	LW	23	6-3/205	Milwaukee (AHL)	56	27	27	54	60
100	Nikita Chibrikov	Wpg	RW	21	5-10/170	Manitoba (AHL)	70	17	30	47	53
101	Zach Dean	StL	C	21	6-0/175	Springfield (AHL)	49	9	5	14	24
102	William Dufour	NYI	RW	22	6-2/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	55	15	10	25	35
103	Sam Rinzel	Chi	D	19	6-4/180	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	26	28	20
104	Joel Blomqvist	Pit	G	22	6-2/185	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	45	25	12	2.16	0.921
105	Arseni Gritsyuk	NJ	RW	23	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	50	19	19	38	8
106	Corson Ceulemans	CBJ	D	20	6-2/200	Cleveland (AHL)	47	3	9	12	12
107	Michael Hrabal	Ari	G	19	6-6/209	Massachusetts (HE)	30	16	12	2.59	0.912
108	Brendan Brisson	VGK	C	22	5-11/180	Vegas (NHL)	15	2	6	8	2
109	Owen Pickering	Pit	D	20	6-4/180	Swift Current (WHL)	59	7	39	46	35
110	Owen Beck	Mtl	C	20	5-11/185	Pbo-Sag (OHL)	57	34	47	81	18
111	William Wallinder	Det	D	21	6-4/190	Grand Rapids (AHL)	65	3	12	15	10
112	Xavier Bourgault	Edm	C	21	6-0/170	Bakersfield (AHL)	55	8	12	20	24
113	Jordan Dumais	CBJ	RW	20	5-8/165	Halifax (QMJHL)	21	16	31	47	6
114	Aleksi Heimosalmi	Car	D	20	5-11/170	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	47	2	14	16	12
115	Brandon Bussi	Bos	G	25	6-4/218	Providence (AHL)	41	23	10	2.67	0.913
116	Jackson Blake	Car	RW	20	5-10/160	North Dakota (NCHC)	40	22	38	60	26
117	Erik Portillo	LA	G	23	6-6/210	Ontario (AHL)	39	24	11	2.50	0.918
118	Sean Farrell	Mtl	C	22	5-8/175	Laval (AHL)	47	9	19	28	10
119	Kasper Halttunen	SJ	RW	18	6-3/205	London (OHL)	57	32	29	61	61
120	Topi Niemela	Tor	D	22	5-11/165	Toronto (AHL)	68	8	31	39	43
121	Ethan Gauthier	TB	RW	19	5-11/175	Drummondville (QMJHL)	64	36	35	71	42
122	Daniil Miromanov	Cgy	D	26	6-4/200	VGK-Cgy (NHL)	24	3	4	7	8
123	Ruslan Iskhakov	NYI	C	23	5-8/155	Bridgeport (AHL)	69	18	32	50	30
124	Shai Buium	Det	D	21	6-3/210	Denver (NCHC)	43	7	29	36	14
125	Jakub Dobes	Mtl	G	22	6-3/200	Laval (AHL)	51	24	18	2.93	0.906
126	Oliver Kapanen	Mtl	C	20	6-0/170	KalPa (Fin-Liiga)	51	14	20	34	32
127	Danny Nelson	NYI	C	18	6-3/200	Notre Dame (B1G)	30	9	14	23	32
128	Lenni Hameenaho	NJ	RW	19	6-0/175	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	46	14	17	31	10
129	Nick Lardis	Chi	LW	18	5-11/165	Brantford (OHL)	37	29	21	50	12
130	Ty Nelson	Sea	D	20	5-10/195	North Bay (OHL)	54	16	36	52	50
131	Isaac Howard	TB	LW	20	5-10/185	Michigan State (B1G)	36	8	28	36	10
132	Fyodor Svechkov	Nsh	C	21	6-0/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	57	16	23	39	18
133	Jeremie Poirier	Cgy	D	21	6-1/196	Calgary (AHL)	23	3	10	13	22
134	Reid Schaefer	Nsh	LW	20	6-3/215	Milwaukee (AHL)	63	7	14	21	39
135	Zack Ostapchuk	Ott	C	20	6-3/205	Belleville (AHL)	69	17	11	28	47
136	Nathan Gaucher	Ana	C	20	6-3/207	San Diego (AHL)	72	10	15	25	68
137	Rodwin Dionicio	Ana	D	20	6-2/207	Wsr-Sag (OHL)	60	25	48	73	108
138	Eduard Sale	Sea	LW	19	6-1/170	Bar-Kit (OHL)	49	15	23	38	8
139	Danil Gushchin	SJ	RW	22	5-8/165	San Jose (AHL)	56	20	34	54	24
140	Sean Behrens	Col	D	21	5-10/175	Denver (NCHC)	44	4	27	31	53
141	Christian Kyrou	Dal	D	20	5-10/170	Texas (AHL)	57	8	15	23	22
142	Niklas Kokko	Sea	G	20	6-3/185	Pelicans (Fin-Liiga)	13	9	0	1.49	0.926
143	Vasily Ponomarev	Pit	C	22	5-10/180	Tuc-Chi-WBS (AHL)	45	9	21	30	16
144	Ryan Winterton	Sea	RW	20	6-2/190	Coachella Valley (AHL)	58	22	13	35	23
145	Dmitri Buchelnikov	Det	LW	20	5-10/165	Admiral Vladivostok (KHL)	55	13	16	29	8
146	Oscar Fisker Molgaard	Sea	C	19	6-0/165	HV 71 (SHL)	50	9	12	21	6
147	Aku Raty	Ari	RW	22	6-1/190	Tucson (AHL)	55	15	29	44	22
148	Matyas Sapovaliv	VGK	C	20	6-3/180	Saginaw (OHL)	54	19	43	62	22
149	Georgii Merkulov	Bos	C	23	5-11/175	Providence (AHL)	67	30	35	65	20
150	Topias Vilen	NJ	D	21	6-1/195	Utica (AHL)	54	2	27	29	16
151	Ryan Chesley	Wsh	D	20	6-0/200	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	6	8	19
152	Jayden Perron	Car	RW	19	5-9/165	North Dakota (NCHC)	39	11	7	18	8
153	Tristen Robins	SJ	C	22	5-10/175	San Jose (AHL)	42	7	11	18	12
154	Calle Odelius	NYI	D	19	6-0/190	Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)	10	0	4	4	2
155	Vincent Iorio	Wsh	D	21	6-2/190	Hershey (AHL)	60	4	10	14	30
156	Raphael Lavoie	Edm	RW	23	6-4/215	Bakersfield (AHL)	66	28	22	50	64
157	Ronnie Attard	Phi	D	25	6-3/210	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	48	10	17	27	37
158	Niko Huuhtanen	TB	RW	20	6-2/205	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	52	19	27	46	46
159	Carson Bjarnason	Phi	G	18	6-3/185	Brandon (WHL)	46	24	17	3.01	0.907
160	Lukas Dragicevic	Sea	D	19	6-1/190	Tri-City (WHL)	66	14	36	50	52
161	Leevi Merilainen	Ott	G	21	6-2/160	Belleville (AHL)	24	10	9	2.87	0.906
162	Tyler Kleven	Ott	D	22	6-4/200	Belleville (AHL)	53	5	16	21	51
163	Hunter Brzustewicz	Cgy	D	19	5-11/185	Kitchener (OHL)	67	13	79	92	24
164	Ryan Greene	Chi	C	20	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	40	12	24	36	6
165	Damian Clara	Ana	G	19	6-6/214	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	34	25	8	2.23	0.913
166	Carson Lambos	Min	D	21	6-1/200	Iowa (AHL)	69	4	10	14	64
167	Denver Barkey	Phi	C	19	5-8/160	London (OHL)	64	35	67	102	28
168	Gage Goncalves	TB	C	23	6-1/170	Syracuse (AHL)	69	13	45	58	43
169	Arshdeep Bains	Van	LW	23	6-0/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	59	16	39	55	28
170	Bogdan Konyushkov	Mtl	D	21	5-11/175	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	65	6	22	28	18
171	Alexei Kolosov	Phi	G	22	6-1/185	Dinamo Minsk (KHL)	47	22	21	2.39	0.907
172	Samuel Fagemo	LA	RW	24	6-0/195	Ontario (AHL)	50	43	19	62	26
173	Filip Mesar	Mtl	C	20	5-9/175	Kitchener (OHL)	45	19	33	52	12
174	Matthew Robertson	NYR	D	23	6-3/200	Hartford (AHL)	68	4	17	21	49
175	Adam Engstrom	Mtl	D	20	6-2/185	Rogle (SHL)	51	4	18	22	4
176	Michael Buchinger	StL	D	20	5-11/185	Guelph (OHL)	52	10	37	47	37
177	Semyon Chistyakov	Nsh	D	22	5-11/180	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	59	4	20	24	16
178	John Farinacci	Bos	C	23	5-11/197	Providence (AHL)	71	12	26	38	16
179	Angus Crookshank	Ott	LW	24	5-10/180	Belleville (AHL)	50	24	22	46	60
180	Yegor Sidorov	Ana	RW	19	6-0/180	Saskatoon (WHL)	66	50	38	88	66
181	Samu Tuomaala	Phi	RW	21	5-10/175	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	69	15	28	43	12
182	Logan Morrison	Sea	C	21	6-0/180	Coachella Valley (AHL)	64	16	25	41	4
183	Jean-Luc Foudy	Col	C	21	5-11/175	Colorado (AHL)	26	4	10	14	18
184	Adam Gajan	Chi	G	19	6-3/167	Green Bay (USHL)	43	23	12	3.35	0.893
185	Nolan Allan	Chi	D	21	6-2/195	Rockford (AHL)	60	5	12	17	47
186	Oskar Olausson	Col	RW	21	6-1/180	Colorado (AHL)	39	11	9	20	24
187	Samuel Poulin	Pit	C	23	6-1/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	41	16	15	31	35
188	Brett Berard	NYR	LW	21	5-9/165	Hartford (AHL)	71	25	23	48	62
189	Colton Dach	Chi	C	21	6-4/205	Rockford (AHL)	48	11	15	26	39
190	Jack Thompson	SJ	D	22	6-0/180	Syr-SJ (AHL)	62	6	35	41	16
191	Riley Kidney	Mtl	C	21	5-11/170	Laval (AHL)	65	7	13	20	41
192	Roby Jarventie	Ott	RW	21	6-3/195	Belleville (AHL)	22	9	11	20	22
193	Carey Terrance	Ana	C	18	6-1/175	Erie (OHL)	56	29	23	52	25
194	Luca Del Bel Belluz	CBJ	C	20	6-1/185	Cleveland (AHL)	58	9	22	31	12
195	Luca Pinelli	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Ottawa (OHL)	68	48	34	82	44
196	Francesco Pinelli	LA	C	21	6-1/185	Ontario (AHL)	67	13	7	20	24
197	Elias Salomonsson	Wpg	D	19	6-1/185	Skelleftea (SHL)	31	2	9	11	58
198	Sam Colangelo	Ana	RW	21	6-2/205	Western Michigan (NCHC)	38	24	19	43	23
199	Sasha Pastujov	Ana	RW	20	6-0/185	San Diego (AHL)	46	10	13	23	14
200	Andrew Gibson	Det	D	19	6-3/195	Saul St. Marie (OHL)	68	12	32	44	58

MCKEEN’S 2024 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP GUIDE – Team USA

Ethan Hetu — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 12:52:54 +0000

While a third-place finish at last year’s tournament was far from a poor effort, USA Hockey surely has its eyes on the gold medal given all the talent recent American WJC squads have boasted. The Americans took home the gold at the 2021 tournament, and this year’s squad has a strong chance to reach that mountaintop once again.

It all starts up front for Team USA. They have arguably the best set of forwards in the entire tournament, a point emphasized when Cole Eiserman (ranked fifth overall in the recent McKeen’s 2024 draft rankings) surprisingly failed to make it onto the preliminary roster. The star of the show here for the Americans is likely to be its top two lines. First and foremost, expect head coach David Carle to keep intact the Gabriel Perreault - Will Smith - Ryan Leonard line from Boston College and previously the NTDP. Their presence on the Americans’ roster is an immense privilege for the program: a plug-and-play line with that level of talent is such an asset in a brief tournament where chemistry can be hard to build on such short notice. Beyond that line, there are a few players who are likely to occupy top-end scoring roles, such as 2022 first-rounders Cutter Gauthier, Jimmy Snuggerud, and potentially even a resurgent Isaac Howard, who has been rejuvenated at Michigan State after a difficult debut year in college hockey.

The Americans also have impressive depth beyond just those listed names. Players such as Frank Nazar, Oliver Moore, Danny Nelson, and Gavin Brindley would be slated for impact roles in other programs, but on Team USA they face a tough fight for a scoring-line role and are more likely to play in the bottom-six.

On defense, the abundance of talent continues. As has been the case in the past, the Americans have an abundance of smaller defensemen who profile more in puck-moving offensive roles. That being said, while the lack of diversity in terms of skill set among the listed defensemen is up for debate, what isn’t is their level of talent. Led by Boston University superstar Lane Hutson, the Americans boast a few defensemen with genuine game-breaking potential. Hutson is likely to serve as a key offensive conduit and power play quarterback, though if he somehow falters the team also has Seamus Casey or even freshman superstar Zeev Buium to take up that role. In addition, players such as Sam Rinzel, Ryan Chesley, and Drew Fortescue provide some much-needed size and, especially in the case of the latter two, defensive bite. While this blueline group isn’t quite the obvious tournament-wide standout assortment of talent that the team’s forward corps is likely to be, it’s nonetheless an enviable group of prospects.

In net, the Americans are in a far stronger position than they were last year. Both Jacob Fowler and Trey Augustine have been standout freshmen goalies, with Fowler in particular holding a stellar .925 save percentage at the time of writing. The battle for the number-one job between Fowler and Augustine will be a storyline to watch for the Americans: while Augustine will likely get the first chance as a returning player (he started for USA at last year’s tournament) Fowler has a reputation for performing at his best when the lights are brightest.

Lane Hutson of USA during the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship bronze medal game between USA and Sweden on January 5, 2023 in Halifax.
Photo: Simon Hastegård / BILDBYRÅN /

10 Players to Watch + Sleeper

Cutter Gauthier, C, Boston College (Philadelphia Flyers)

Before we even get to the trio of Boston College freshmen that have attracted so many headlines over the past calendar year, respect must be paid to the fifth-overall pick from the 2022 draft. Gauthier’s 13 goals for the Eagles so far this season rank him second (tied with WMU’s Dylan Wendt) in college hockey, and he’s quickly proving that he’ll be ready for a shot in the NHL with the Flyers once his college season ends. A six-foot-two sniper with some power forward elements to his game, Gauthier is likely to be America’s second top-six center alongside Eagle teammate Will Smith. He’s made refinements to his game since his freshman campaign and could be even better in this year’s WJC than he was at last year’s, when he scored 10 points in seven games. If the Americans end up accomplishing what they set out to do - which is win gold - there’s no doubt they’ll do so thanks to significant contributions from Gauthier.

Will Smith, C, Boston College (San Jose Sharks)

The highest-drafted American-born player of the 2023 class is set to take a coveted top-six center role for the Americans, assuming his line with Perreault and Leonard is in fact the Americans’ most relied-upon trio of forwards. An extremely creative offensive dynamo, Smith has started off his collegiate career well and is a candidate to turn pro as soon as the Eagles’ campaign finishes. He ripped the U-18 Worlds apart last season, scoring a tournament-high 20 points and winning MVP honors. While the competition is notably more difficult at the World Juniors, it wouldn’t be a massive surprise to see him put together a similarly dominant performance. The presence BC teammate Gauthier on the American squad might push Smith out of some of the highest-leverage moments, but regardless, when Smith steps onto the ice any shift he plays will become must-watch television. He’s that skilled, and his line is that good.

Gabriel Perreault, LW, Boston College (New York Rangers)

Unlike his linemates Leonard and Smith, Perreault did not hear his name called inside the top-10 picks at the 2023 draft. He had to wait all the way until pick 23, and now the World Juniors provides him with a massive stage to show the teams at passed on him just how massive the mistake they made is. Perreault has been a play-driving offensive force as a Boston College freshman, and he has helped make his line arguably the best in college hockey this season. A playmaker first and foremost, Perreault has a knack for elevating each and every player who shares the ice with him, regardless of that player’s individual talent level. While Smith and Leonard got more attention from NHL teams at the draft, Perreault quietly shoulders a massive amount of responsibility for the success of his line. Expect that to continue at the World Juniors.

Ryan Leonard, RW, Boston College (Washington Capitals)

As we indicated in our draft coverage of the 2023 cycle, Leonard is a player that’s almost impossible to dislike. A gritty, hard-working forward who also has a ton of skill, Leonard has had a successful transition to college hockey and currently ranks second on the Eagles in scoring with 10 goals in just 18 games. When the Americans need an important goal, Leonard is one the players most likely to provide it -- just as he did in overtime for the Americans at the U18 Worlds, his tally lifting the Americans to a gold medal over Sweden. The WJC provides Leonard with a major stage to show people why the Capitals felt comfortable drafting him with the seventh pick at last year’s draft, and Leonard has shown he can excel on big stages. While Cutter Gauthier is the older, more advanced shooter, Leonard is absolutely a candidate to potentially lead this team in goals.

Jimmy Snuggerud, RW, Minnesota (St. Louis Blues)

Snuggerud, a St. Louis Blues prospect, had an unbelievable freshman campaign with the Golden Gophers on one of college hockey’s finest lines last season. Alongside Logan Cooley and Matthew Knies, Snuggerud put up 50 points in just 40 games and led his team to the National Championship game. He was also stellar at the World Juniors, and his five-goal, 13-point performance would likely have garnered more attention had Connor Bedard not decided to set the world on fire to the tune of 23 points. So far this season, the loss of Knies and Cooley to the NHL has put a bit of a damper on Snuggerud’s production, although he’s still hovering near the point-per-game mark. Snuggerud has had to find ways to create consistent offense as a true offensive centerpiece rather than as a conduit for the individual creativity of players such as Cooley or Knies, and while that’s undeniably a positive thing for him to be developing, it’ll be interesting to see how he fares in his return to the WJC now that he’s slated to be back on a line with some extremely high-upside teammates.

Danny Nelson, C, Notre Dame (New York Islanders)

The Americans don’t have any shortage of offensive skill up and down their forward lineup. The team is unlikely to have any issue taking residence in the offensive zone, spending a significant amount of time there looking to create offense, especially against weaker opponents. But in the tight games against other tournament heavyweights, having a player like Nelson is crucial. The six-foot-three New York Islanders prospect has been solid to start his collegiate career, scoring 14 points in 18 games for Notre Dame. As a prototypical power forward, Nelson blends offensive skill, scoring touch, and spurts of physical play into one highly projectable package of tools. While Nelson is unlikely to usurp one of the more skilled Americans from a scoring-line job, someone needs to occupy an important bottom-six role, and the leading candidate for best bottom-sixer on Team USA at this moment is Nelson.

Lane Hutson, LHD, Boston University (Montreal Canadiens)

On a team full of extremely talented puck-moving, offensively-oriented defensemen, Hutson could very well be the best. The Montreal Canadiens prospect had an extremely good freshman campaign for the Terriers, playing his way into Hobey Baker conversation before the Award was ultimately taken by Fantilli. He’s continued his success into this campaign and is likely to begin the tournament quarterbacking the American power play. A dynamic offensive creator with the puck on his stick, Hutson plays like a point guard in the offensive zone. He’s also a shooting threat, as his 23 goals in 54 NCAA games would suggest. Hutson had a solid Men’s World Championship tournament with the American squad sent to Tampere last summer, holding his own against seasoned professionals and current and former NHLers. He’ll carry that experience into this tournament, where on paper he looks to be the Americans’ most important defenseman.

Ryan Chesley, RHD, Minnesota (Washington Capitals)

The Americans’ roster construction is somewhat skewed towards smaller, more offensively-oriented defensemen, and that’s just a product of the talent available for selection to USA Hockey. As a result of this, the importance of Chesley to the Americans’ gold medal hopes cannot be overstated. The Washington Capitals 2022 second-round pick is a defense-first blueliner who excels at limiting his opponents’ offensive activity. While he doesn’t have the strongest offensive side to his game, Chesley is likely to be paired with one of America’s aggressive puck-moving left-shot blueliners, with the idea being that Chesley’s defense will make up for the defensive shortcomings of the player he’s paired with. If Chesley’s defensive strength provides a player like Hutson the breathing room to play more aggressively and take more offensive risks, Chesley’s pairing could easily become the team’s best.

Zeev Buium, LHD, Denver (2024 Draft Prospect)

The lone draft-eligible skater on the American roster, Buium is having a special freshman season with the Denver Pioneers. The smooth-skating defenseman oozes intelligence and seems to make an impact on nearly every shift in college, which is a remarkable statement to make about a freshman defenseman still yet to be drafted. His 25 points so far this season are the most of any defenseman in college hockey. Not any freshman defenseman, but any defenseman, period. But it’s not just about points with Buium, his skating ability and his hockey IQ make him a strong defensive asset at times, and his ability to facilitate zone exits is a particular point of strength. The Pioneers are a lethal offensive team with several players already putting up gaudy point totals. It’s no coincidence that the players putting up those numbers often get to share the ice with Buium. He’s not yet a dynamic offensive force the way a blueliner like Hutson is, but his play helps allow his team’s best offensive players to actually spend time creating offense. On a stacked American team Buium is unlikely to get a significant role like the one he has in Denver, but whatever minutes he does play are likely to enhance his stock in advance of next summer’s draft.

Jacob Fowler, G, Boston College (Montreal Canadiens)

Although Augustine is, as mentioned, likely to get the first shot at starting for the Americans due to his experience starting for the program at last year’s edition of the tournament, it wouldn’t be a massive surprise to see Team USA eventually turn to Fowler. Unlike many of the players named to the American roster, Fowler isn’t a product of the U.S. National Team Development Program. The Florida native instead spent his draft year with the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms, and his .952 playoff save percentage backstopped the team to a Clark Cup championship. Fowler has made significant strides in his game since arriving at Boston College, addressing some key concerns scouts had that saw him fall to the third round of the 2023 draft. He reportedly cut his weight down a noticeable amount and is playing with more fluidity and confidence than ever before. He’s been one of the best goalies in college hockey this season and has the kind of personality and temperament to handle the pressure that comes from being the goalie of a team that expects to take home a gold medal.

Sleeper: Drew Fortescue

As mentioned, the Americans’ roster is currently skewed more towards defensemen oriented towards the offensive side of the game. That places Fortescue, a 2023 third-round pick, in an interesting situation. As a more traditional defense-first defenseman, Fortescue could play a bigger role on Team USA than he might otherwise have played if the Americans’ defense was a bit more balanced. As one of just three left-shot defensemen, Fortescue could end up paired with a dynamic puck-mover such as Seamus Casey, and getting the chance to be the Marc Methot to Casey’s Erik Karlsson on such a major stage could raise Fortescue’s prospect stock significantly. His lack of size compared to a player such as Rinzel means that he won’t make scouts drool, but his quietly effective defensive play could make him one of the most subtly valuable members of the American team.

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #19

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 14:49:23 +0000

Top 20 Washington Capitals Prospects

1. Ryan Leonard

There is no area in Leonard’s game that requires significant growth in order for him to be an NHLer. His ability to play with pace, his physicality, goal scoring ability, and two-way efficiency made him one of the most complete forwards available for the 2023 draft. Unquestionably, one of his best qualities is his shot. Armed with an array of high-end shots, Leonard can beat goalies in a variety of ways. His offensive zone anticipation and understanding of spacing helps him to consistently find soft spots in coverage and his quick release helps him to take advantage of those opportunities more often than not. The million-dollar question is ultimately what is his upside if he’s really good at absolutely everything, but not elite in any one thing? Can he be a first line winger the way guys like Gabriel Landeskog or Matthew Tkachuk? Or does he fit more into the middle of the lineup as a Brandon Saad or Nick Foligno type? Headed to Boston College (along with USNTDP linemates Smith and Perreault), Leonard will focus on improving his vision and playmaking ability. He should be an immediate impact player at the collegiate level similar to how Cutter Gauthier was last season. He should also be in the NHL sooner than many players drafted in the 2023 first round.

2. Hendrix Lapierre

It was a tough road for Lapierre, suffering multiple concussions and struggling at times to find his game after that. He had a very strong rookie season in the QMJHL, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. But after that, injuries set in and he missed almost all of his draft year. Still, the Capitals took a chance, drafting him 22nd overall. He spent two more years in the Q, playing well but never taking off. He joined the AHL’s Hershey Bears last season where he was one of their more productive forwards, bringing a two-way presence to the ice. Lapierre is a highly talented playmaker, thanks to his borderline elite vision. He can shoot as well, although often looks for the pass first. He skates well, drives a line, and is reliable in his own end. There’s second-line potential here if everything falls into place.

3. Ivan Miroshnichenko

Miroshnichenko was once considered a top-three calibre selection for the 2022 Draft but after a slow start to his draft year and then a Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis, he slid to 20th where the Capitals were waiting. He ended up missing a large portion of 2021-22 but was back on the ice last season, a great sign after his diagnosis. He spent a large portion of his season in the KHL with Avangard Omsk but also saw time in both the VHL and MHL. He also has a strong international resume with Team Russia, including captaining Russia to a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He has a pro frame and moves very well on the ice, thanks to powerful skating strides. Miroshnichenko is a dynamic offensive asset, able to fire a hard wrister or show off an impressive pass. He has very soft, controlled hands. He still has top six potential but may take some time to actualize. He signed a three-year entry level contract with the Capitals to continue his journey in North America this season.

4. Andrew Cristall

Cristall is an absolute magician with the puck, with a seemingly bottomless bag full of tricks. He can stickhandle in a phone booth, and his ability to draw opponents out of better defensive positioning and in towards him is exceptional. He can reliably find existing passing lanes or make that one extra dangle or delay that one extra second to help open up better ones. He's no slouch as a shooter, either. Countless opponents have made the mistake of trying to cut off his passes only to leave their goalies in helpless positions after Cristall fooled them. For as entertaining as he has been in the WHL, there are questions about how he will look in the NHL. For a guy of his small stature he isn't a high-end skater, which is a concerning one-two punch. While he can use elusive footwork to sometimes help get him out of trouble in tight spaces, his acceleration and top speed are both sorely lacking. He has a hard time keeping up defensively. It's worth mentioning that he is whip-smart and incredibly driven, so he'll be aware of what parts of his game he needs to fix and will keep putting in the work to continue improving.

5. Vincent Iorio

Iorio has been overlooked by many due to his stat line never really jumping off the page. And yet he’s a mobile, puck-moving defender with a real chance to have a legit NHL career. He moves very well, utilizing his edges to navigate the neutral zone or to dance along the blue line. He moves the puck so well, making crisp, clean passes from anywhere on the ice. Drafted 55th overall in 2021, the right-handed defender already had three WHL seasons under his belt. He spent just one more with the Brandon Wheat Kings before joining the AHL Hershey Bears last season. He also earned a call-up for a few games with the Capitals and should see more this season. The defender is well on his way to becoming a skilled bottom-four defender.

6. Ryan Chesley

Chesley heard his name called 37th overall in 2022 after an impressive season with the USNTDP. He made the move to the NCAA last season with the University of Minnesota and found some challenges with his offensive output, especially playing in a more depth role. He’ll likely see additional ice time next season, so it remains to be seen if his offensive game can take a step forward. Chesley can bring offensive production, but he leans more toward the defensive side of the game. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. He also skates well and is no stranger to moving the puck around, but his offensive output is likely to be limited at the next level. He has the potential to develop into a reliable, two-way, depth defender.

7. Alexander Suzdalev

Suzdalev has an interesting backstory of having played for both Team Sweden and Team Russia on the international stage, as he maintains dual citizenship. Drafted 70th overall in 2022, the Capitals selected him from HV71’s junior program, where he produced over a point per game. He headed overseas last season to the WHL’s Regina Pats and had the opportunity to play with Connor Bedard. That resulted in him leading all rookies in goals (38), assists (48), and points (86). He’s a skilled, playmaking winger who shows the ability to control the pace of play. His handling of the puck stands out, as though he has the puck on a string quite often. He’s not always consistent in his effort, as is sometimes seen with young offensive talents. He has the skill to be a middle-six forward, but if he can’t find that missing consistency, could cap himself as a depth option.

8. Alexander Alexeyev

It’s been a long road for Alexeyev, but the journey is starting to pay off. Selected 31st overall in 2018, the Russian defender was finishing up his second WHL season, taking a notable step forward in his development. He played one more season there with the Red Deer Rebels, again showing promising potential. He made the jump to the AHL in 2019-20, adjusting well to the faster, harder game. He went home to Russia to start the 2020-21 season, on loan with KHL Salavat Yulaev Ufa. Alexeyev returned to the AHL to finish the year and has been there ever since, seeing significant NHL time last season. He’s been plagued by injuries throughout his development but still seems to be on the right track. A big, physical defender who can chip in offensively, he should stick in the NHL as a bottom-pairing blueliner.

9. Clay Stevenson

One of the oldest prospects in the Capitals system, Stevenson has had to be patient in his road to the pros. An undrafted netminder, Stevenson came up through the BCHL where he spent three seasons, including a dominant final year, earning recognition as the top goaltender in the league. He moved on to NCAA Dartmouth College but lost his freshman year due to the pandemic. After one collegiate season, posting a .922 save percentage, the Capitals came calling, signing him to an entry-level deal. He mainly played in the ECHL last season but also received a handful of AHL games where he looked very strong. Goaltenders tend to bloom late, and the Capitals have landed an intriguing one. He’ll need time in the minors to determine his ceiling, but at this point, he looks like a solid AHLer who could earn the occasional call-up.

10. Ludwig Persson

Drafted 85th overall in 2022, Persson has spent the last three seasons (including the current campaign) seeming always on the verge of making the jump to the SHL. Instead, he spent two strong seasons in the J20 Nationell and last season on loan in the HockeyAllsvenskan. It might very well have been his last season in Sweden, as he signed his entry-level deal in November 2022. The winger is an intelligent, offensive talent who can drive a line. The issue is that he doesn’t always take advantage of that, sitting on the sidelines and letting his teammates take over. He has a hard, quick release and a soft touch on his passes. The potential is there but he comes with a low floor as much as a high ceiling. The best-case scenario would be a middle-six role, but he may settle in as an AHL/depth option.

11. Joaquim Lemay

Lemay has been all over the place in recent years, traveling from minor hockey in Quebec, to prep school, the BCHL, USHL, and finally the University of Nebraska-Omaha last season. A competitive two-way defender, he had a solid freshman year and looks the part of a potential NHL defender.

12. Bogdan Trineyev

The big power winger will finally make the jump to North America full time this season. Consistency has been an issue in Russia, but the skill is real and the physicality is intriguing. Hockey sense is the question mark.

13. Ethen Frank

A member of the AHL’s All Rookie team last year, Frank potted 30 for the Bears playing on an AHL deal. Now signed by the Caps to an NHL contract, Frank has his sights set on making the Washington roster. Not only can he rifle the puck, but he’s lightning quick, too.

14. Ryan Hofer

A big, physical two-way center, Hofer had a solid OA year split between Everett and Kamloops in the WHL. Skating is always going to be a question mark, but he has enough tools to be an eventual bottom six contributor.

15. Cam Allen

Allen is coming off a highly disappointing draft year that saw him fall from being a potential lottery selection to waiting until the fifth round to hear his name called. The tools are all there, but the decision making needs to improve. How much better will he be this year for Guelph without the weight of the draft on his shoulders?

16. Matthew Phillips

Out of Calgary, it will be interesting to see how Phillips fares in a new organization. There’s absolutely no doubt that he can score in the AHL. He’s been one of the better offensive players there in recent years. He needs to be in a scoring line role to succeed.

17. Brent Johnson

Highly touted coming out of the USHL, Johnson struggled mightily through two years at North Dakota. After transferring to Ohio State, can he get his future back on track? He can quarterback a powerplay and could put up big numbers with the Buckeyes this year.

18. David Gucciardi

Strong skating blueliner who took on a larger role with Michigan State last year as a sophomore. The numbers don’t jump off the page, but Gucciardi has intriguing tools that could help him become a solid pro down the line.

19. Jake Karabela

Another Guelph Storm member who had a poor year, Karabela is a strong skating two-way forward whose offensive game really stagnated last season. This season is an opportunity to prove to Washington that he deserves a contract and can be a future pro.

20. Hardy Haman Aktell

An SHL champion with Vaxjo last season, Aktell emerged as one of the top defenders in the SHL. This turned into a contract with Washington this offseason. He may have to start the year in the AHL, but he could move up quickly if he performs well.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #27 Washington Capitals

Josh Bell — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:39:02 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 27^th

Stanley Cup winners in 2018, the Capitals lost in the first round the following four seasons, and finally missed this year. This led to a minor reset trading veterans Garnet Hathaway and Dmitri Orlov for three picks, including Boston’s first, plus Craig Smith (UFA 2023). They traded that 1^st along with Erik Gustafsson to the Leafs for promising defenseman Rasmus Sandin, who made an immediate impact upon arrival. Marcus Johansson and Lars Eller were moved for picks in 2024 (3^rd) and 2025 (2^nd). Alexander Ovechkin is signed for another four seasons as he pursues Wayne Gretzky’s goal scoring record, it is hard to imagine a scenario where the team does not look to add pieces for another playoff run. They have question marks, such as Nicklas Backstrom’s health after offseason hip surgery limited him to 21 games this season. Evgeniy Kuznetsov has requested a trade, after an uninspired season.

They do have two promising prospects, despite their overall ranking, in Henrix Lapierre and Ivan Miroschnichenko (ranked 70^th and 77^th respectively by McKeen’s). They both have had health concerns. Lapierre from injury, which slowed his development, but had a productive season in Hershey as a two-way forward with elite vision. Miroschnichenko missed much of last season with a Hodgkins Lymphona diagnosis prior to his draft year. Considered a potential top 10 or even top five pick, he fell to 20^th. He comes over to North America this season but will need some seasoning. They have graduated four players, but the results have been mixed. Only Martin Fehervary is making an impact in the NHL at the moment. They have hopes Connor McMichael can play a role, but results so far suggest a depth player, rather than an impact.

NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 04: Washington Capitals center Hendrix Lapierre (29) during the pre-season National Hockey League game between the New Jersey Devils and the Washington Capitals on October 4, 2021 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Hendrix Lapierre

It was a tough road for Hendrix Lapierre, suffering multiple concussions and struggling at times to find his game after that. He had a very strong rookie season in the QMJHL, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. But after that injuries set in, and he missed almost all of his draft year. Still, the Washington Capitals took a chance, drafting him 22nd overall. He spent two more years in the Q, playing well but never taking off. He joined the AHL’s Hersey Bears this season where he’s been one of the more productive forwards, bringing a two-way presence to the ice. He is a highly talented playmaker, thanks to his borderline elite vision. He can shoot as well, although often looks for the pass first. He skates well, drives a line, and is reliable in his own end. There’s second-line potential here if everything falls into place.

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko

Ivan Mirosnichenko was once considered a top-three selection in the 2022 NHL Draft but after a slow start to his draft year and then a Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis, he slid all the way to 20th where the Washington Capitals were waiting. He ended up missing a large portion of last season but is back on the ice this season, a great sign after his diagnosis. He spent a large portion of his season in the KHL with Avangard Omsk but also saw time in the VHL and MHL. He also has a strong international resume with Team Russia, including captaining Russia to a gold medal at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He has a pro frame and moves very well on the ice, thanks to some powerful strides. He’s a dynamic offensive asset, able to fire a hard wrister or show off an impressive pass. He has very soft, controlled hands. He still has top six potential but may take some time. He signed a three-year entry level contract with the Capitals continuing his journey in North America this coming season.

3. Vincent Iorio

Vincent Iorio is a player that many seem to overlook due to his stat line never really jumping off the page. And yet he’s a mobile, puck-moving defender. That has caused the casual fan to pause on Iorio, but there’s a player here. He moves very well, utilizing his edges to navigate the neutral zone or to dance along the blue line. He moves the puck so well, making crisp, clean passes from anywhere on the ice. Drafted 55th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, the right-handed defender already had three WHL seasons under his belt. He spent just one more with the Brandon Wheat Kings before joining the Hershey Bears in the AHL this season. He also earned a call-up for a few games with the Capitals this season. The defender is well on his way to becoming a skilled bottom-four defender.

4. Ryan Chesley

Selected in the most recent draft, Ryan Chesley had his name called 37th overall in 2022 after an impressive season with the USNTDP. He’s made the move to the NCAA this season with the University of Minnesota and found some challenges with his offensive output, especially playing in a more depth role. He’ll likely see some additional ice time next season so it will remain to be seen if his offensive game can take a step forward. Chesley can bring some production, but he leans more toward the defensive side of the game. He keeps a very active stick and defends the rush very well. His defensive awareness is high. He moves well too though and is no stranger to moving the puck around, but his offensive output is likely to be limited at the next level. Still, he has the potential to become a reliable, two-way, depth defender.

5. Alexander Alexeyev

It’s been a long road for Alexander Alexeyev, but it seems like it’s starting to pay off. Selected 31st overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, the Russian defender was finishing up his second WHL season, taking a notable step forward in his development. He played one more season there with the Red Deer Rebels, again showing some promising potential. In 2019-20 he made the jump to the AHL, adjusting well to the faster, harder game. He went home to Russia to start the 2020-21 season, playing on loan in the KHL with Salavat Yulaev Ufa. He returned to the AHL to finish the year and has been there since, seeing significant NHL time this season. He’s been plagued with some injuries throughout his development but seems to be on the right track still. A big, physical defender that can chip in offensively, the defender should stick in the NHL as a bottom-pairing defender.

6. Alexander Suzdalev

Alexander Suzdalev has an interesting story of having played for both Team Sweden and Team Russia on the international stage, maintaining dual citizenship. Drafted 70th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, the Capitals selected him from the J20 Nationell and HV71 J20, where he played at over a point per game. He came overseas this season to the WHL’s Regina Pats and had the opportunity to play with Connor Bedard. That resulted in him leading all rookies in goals (38), assists (48), and points (86). He’s a skilled, playmaking winger that shows the ability to control the pace of play. His handling of the puck stands out, seeming as though he has the puck on a string quite often. He’s not always consistent in his effort, as is sometimes seen with young offensive talents. He has the skill to be a middle-six forward, but if he can’t find that missing consistency, could cap himself as a depth option.

7. Clay Stevenson

One of the oldest prospects in the Capitals system, Clay Stevenson has had to be patient in his road to the pros. An undrafted netminder, Stevenson came up through the BCHL where he spent three seasons, including a dominant final year, earning recognition as the top goaltender in the league. He moved on to Dartmouth College in the NCAA but lost his freshman year due to the pandemic. After one season in the league, posting a .922 save percentage, the Capitals came calling, signing him to an entry-level deal. He mainly played in the ECHL this season but did play a handful of AHL games where he looked very strong. Goaltenders tend to bloom late, and the Capitals have landed an intriguing one. He’ll need time in the minors to determine his ceiling, but at this point, he looks like a solid AHL goalie who could earn the occasional call-up.

8. Ludwig Persson

Drafted 85th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Ludwig Persson has spent the last three seasons (including the current campaign) seeming always on the verge of making the jump to the SHL. Instead, he spent two strong seasons in the J20 Nationell and spent this season on loan in the HockeyAllsvenskan. It may very well be his last season in Sweden though, having signed his entry-level deal in November 2022. The winger is an intelligent, offensive talent that can drive a line. The issue is that he doesn’t always take advantage of that, seeming to sit in the sidelines and let his teammates take over. He has a hard, quick release and a soft touch on his passes. The potential is there but he does come with a low floor as much as a high ceiling. The best-case scenario would be a middle-six role, but he may settle in as an AHL/depth option.

9. Joaquim Lemay

A mid-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft at 119th overall, Joaquin Lemay has gotten used to being a rookie in recent years. You’d have to go back to 2018-19 to find a season where he played with the same team for a second season. He went from playing AAA to the BCHL to the USHL’s Lincoln Stars, to the NCAA this season with the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He’s currently a two-way defender but as this season has shown, he likely leans more toward a defensive role if he is to move up. He does defend well, playing a physical game and angling out very well. He does show flashes of offense, especially in his playmaking, but lacks creativity in that department. He’ll need some time to develop but has the potential to become a strong depth defender. It will depend on how he can adjust his game to fit what’s needed of him.

10. Bogdan Trineyev

Selected 117th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Bogdan Trineyev was coming off his second season in the MHL, taking a big step forward but not exactly stealing glances from scouts. His development since being drafted has been slow, splitting time between the MHL and VHL in 2020-21 and the MHL and KHL in 2021-22 before sticking in the KHL this season. Upon his season in Russia ending, he joined the AHL’s Hershey Bears for what should be a deep playoff run. He’s a power forward that’s seemed to finally grow into his frame, but he does lack the offensive skill that you’d hope for with his playing style. He’s been improving on his defensive side of the puck though and may develop into a role player. The base is there, but there’s no real defining trait that will carry him to the NHL. He seems more likely to become an AHLer at this point.

Ryan Chesley – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #11 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Prospect System Ranking – 11th (Last Year - 7th) GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President) COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023

Cole Hutson, D, Boston University (NCAA) (Currently with Washington Capitals, NHL)

Ilya Protas, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Andrew Cristall, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Lynden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jay Warriors (WHL)

Milton Gästrin, C, MoDo (Allsvenskan)

Terik Parascak, RW, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW Hershey Bears (AHL)

Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Ryan Chesley, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Leon Muggli, D, Hershey Bears, (AHL)

David Gucciardi, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Eriks Mateiko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Cam Allen, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

Maxim Schafer, LW, Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)

Petr Sikora, C, HC Ocelari Trinec (Czech)

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #7

Washington Capitals Top-15 Prospects

1 - Ryan Leonard

2 - Cole Hutson

3 - Andrew Cristall

4 - Ilya Protas

5 - Ivan Miroschnichenko

6 - Lynden Lakovic

7 - Ryan Chesley

8 - Terik Parascak

9 - Vincent Iorio

10 - Justin Sourdif

11 - Milton Gastrin

12 - Eriks Mateiko

13 - Leon Muggli

14 - Cam Allen

15 - David Gucciardi

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #9 Washington Capitals – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – WASHINGTON CAPITALS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #15

Washington Capitals Top-15 Prospects

1. Ryan Leonard

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko

3. Andrew Cristall

4. Terik Parascak

5. Ryan Chesley

6. Vincent Iorio

7. Cole Hutson

8. Leon Muggli

9. Clay Stevenson

10. Alexander Suzdalev

11. Eriks Mateiko

12. Ilya Protas

13. Ethen Frank

14. Pierrick Dube

15. Zac Funk

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #14 Washington Capitals – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Ryan Leonard, RW, Boston College (NCAA)

2. Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

3. Andrew Cristall, LW, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

4. Ryan Chesley, D, University of Minnesota (NCAA)

5. Vincent Iorio, D, Hershey Bears (AHL)

6. Clay Stevenson, G, Hershey Bears (AHL)

7. Alexander Suzdalev, LW, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)

8. Pierrick Dube, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

9. Ethen Frank, C, Hershey Bears (AHL)

10. Bogdan Trineyev, RW, Hershey Bears (AHL)

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 30 NHL PROSPECTS

Risers

Logan Stankoven (27 to 5) - Dallas Stars

Ryan Leonard (32 to 6) – Washington Capitals

Josh Roy (63 to 35) – Montreal Canadiens

Conor Geekie (68 to 18) – Utah

Mavrik Bourque (79 to 23) – Dallas Stars

Gabe Perreault (86 to 19) – New York Rangers

Bradly Nadeau (109 to 34) – Carolina Hurricanes

Jagger Firkus (112 to 47) – Seattle Kraken

Gavin Brindley (122 to 66) – Columbus Blue Jackets

Quentin Musty (125 to 51) – San Jose Sharks

Jani Nyman (135 to 81) – Seattle Kraken

Logan Mailloux (145 to 45) – Montreal Canadiens

Josh Doan (153 to 55) - Utah

Riley Heidt (157 to 44) – Minnesota Wild

Prospect System Ranking – 11th (Last Year - 7th)
GM: Chris Patrick Hired: July 2024 (Also Senior Vice President)
COACH: Spencer Carbery Hired: May 2023