Semyon Frolov – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – CAROLINA HURRICANES – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #15

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 19:11:41 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 15: Carolina defenseman Alexander Nikishin (21) watches the puck during his first NHL debut game during game five of the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs between the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on May 15, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 15th (May 2025 - 10th)
GM: Eric Tulsky Hired: May 2024
COACH: Rod Brind’Amour Hired: May 2018

The Carolina Hurricanes’ prospect pool is built from the blue line out, headlined by 23-year-old Alexander Nikishin. The 6-foot-4 Russian defender arrives after a dominant six-year KHL career in which he posted 54 goals and 177 points, leading all KHL defensemen in scoring for back-to-back seasons (2022–24). With his rare combination of size, skill, and poise, Nikishin is set to make his full-time NHL debut in 2025-26 and should be an immediate difference-maker.

Behind him, Carolina’s depth on defense is striking, with several of the organization’s top 15 McKeen’s prospects patrolling the blue line. Although Scott Morrow is now out of the picture – sent to the Rangers in a deal that brought in K’Andre Miller – other names to watch include Aleksi Heimosalmi, Simon Forsmark, Noel Fransen, Dominick Fensore, Dominik Badinka, and newly drafted Kurban Limatov.

Up front, the pipeline is thinner but still boasts high-end skill. Since Jackson Blake’s graduation, Bradly Nadeau has stepped into the role of top forward prospect. Fresh off a standout NCAA career at Maine, he led all rookies in goals (32) and finished second in points (58) among all rookies during his debut pro season, establishing himself as a legitimate scoring threat.

At the NHL level, new GM Eric Tulsky wasted no time making bold moves. Carolina’s aggressive summer began with the acquisition of Mikko Rantanen and continued with a quick pivot to bring in 23-year-old Logan Stankoven—one of the league’s top young forwards. Stankoven now joins a core featuring Seth Jarvis, Andrei Svechnikov, Sebastian Aho, and goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov, giving the Hurricanes both elite talent in their prime and a strong wave of youth on the horizon.

With a defensive pipeline that rivals any in the league and a few forwards capable of stepping into impact roles, Carolina’s system is well positioned to keep the team in contention for years. The challenge for Tulsky will be integrating these prospects into an already competitive roster without losing the depth that has long been a hallmark of the Hurricanes’ success.

Carolina Hurricanes Top-15 Prospects

1 - Alexander Nikishin

The Carolina Hurricanes found a gem in Alexander Nikishin, drafted in the third-round in 2020. At just 23, he was arguably the best defenceman in the KHL, playing with remarkable poise and is always calm under pressure. Nikishin excels defensively, using his awareness, timing, and angling to shut down plays effectively. He sticks to opponents well, sealing them against the boards with precise checks and using his active stick to disrupt plays. Offensively, he’s efficient rather than flashy, moving smoothly with the puck and delivering accurate, well-timed passes. He keeps his head up, scanning the ice for options, and has a heavy shot that’s netted him 17 goals this season. While he occasionally over handles the puck, he’s usually patient and makes smart decisions. Nikishin is NHL-ready and showed some great flashes with Carolina in the playoffs this past season. He projects as a top-pairing defenceman with unmatched two-way impact.

2 - Bradly Nadeau

It’s looking more and more like Bradly Nadeau will make the jump to the NHL this year, provided his training camp and preseason performance are up to his current standards. His performance in the AHL during the 2024-25 season was impressive, ranking among the best goal scorers. Nadeau started 2025 at a point-per-game pace and stayed red hot down the stretch and now is ready for the next step. He brings a high-level shot to the Canes’ bottom six with a variety of releases that are all equally deadly. There’s a real opportunity to earn a spot on Carolina’s power play this year if he can showcase the same offensive prowess he terrorized the AHL with last year. But he’s not just a shooter. Nadeau is also a strong playmaker who pre-scans for lanes and actively engages defenders to make his passes deceptive. Don’t be surprised to see Nadeau make waves during his rookie campaign. He has historically risen to the occasion and taken little time to find his groove in new leagues.

3 - Nikita Artamanov

Nikita Artamonov broke into the KHL last season as one of the league’s hardest working forwards, impressing with his relentless motor and ability to create offence through effort. This year, he took a major step forward, tallying 39 points in 63 games and setting a KHL record for goals by a DY+1 player with 22. His wrist shot and net-front awareness both improved significantly, and his game looks far more composed without losing the high-energy style that makes him so effective. Artamonov also remained a strong forechecker and transitioned pucks up ice with more control. He’s polished many of his roughest edges and now looks like a major steal for Carolina. He has just re-signed with Torpedo for two more seasons which will extend his time before making the jump to North America, but this should not scare Canes fans. He needs time to make improvements and has the potential to become a talented playmaker and checking forward for years to come.

4 - Kurban Limatov

Kurban Limatov was our highest ranked Russian player from last season and was snatched up by Carolina in the third round of the 2025 draft. He has explosive speed which he uses incredibly well to transport the puck into the offensive zone and a heavy shot which finds its way to the back of the net often. He is a physical defender who finishes his checks hard, using well timed step ups and intelligent angling to cut off his opponents and shut down play before it can even set up. Limatov needs to improve his playmaking ability and learn to use his passing to create offensive opportunities. A lot of the time this season, he was not much of a creator which held his team back offensively. Kurban projects as a top four defenceman whose strengths in the NHL will be shut down defence and great transporting ability. He will need some more time in Russia to continue to develop but looks on track to reach his full potential.

5 - Semyon Frolov

Semyon Frolov is the prototypical Russian-style goalie, and it is pretty easy to see why he was the third goalie picked in the 2025 draft. He has excellent athleticism, able to stretch and explode in many situations. He’s also an exceptional skater, having fluid, quick movement both on his feet and along the ice in any butterfly motions. He’s a competitive and aggressive goalie, someone that could really fire up a team by making huge saves. But he struggles with consistently making proper reads, executing correct plans and has erratic rebound control. Rebounds can be ironed out easily, but cognitive aspects of the game are harder to improve upon and can really hurt a goalie in higher levels. The raw physical talents of Frolov give him the potential to be an effective NHL goalie, but without development in the intellectual aspects of the game, could mean the difference between being a starter, and a backup, or worst case, a third string.

6 - Dominik Badinka

Badinka didn’t take a very big step forward, considering how good he looked in the SHL in his draft year. The young right-hander’s mobility and pace in the defensive zone looked good as ever and he was poised on the puck, but nothing really progressed. He’s added some weight, but the offensive zone play still leaves a lot to be desired. Despite his ice time in the SHL dwindling and his mysterious snub from Czechia’s WJC team, Badinka made the jump to AHL Chicago. The sample size is too small to make any judgements, but his toolkit should make his transition to smaller ice pretty smooth. The only snag is his lack of a pronounced physical game. He’ll finish checks, but he’ll have to turn it up a notch to keep up with the level of physicality in North America. If all goes well, Badinka could be a solid bottom pair defenceman, bringing defensive stability and puck moving skills.

7 - Felix Unger-Sorum

Felix Unger-Sorum made the jump across the pond this past year, joining the Chicago Wolves. He had a solid season adjusting to the North American game, which many expected to be a challenge given his offensive style that leans heavily on lateral movement and opening space for teammates to strike. He still lacks the physicality needed to take the next step, often shying away from contact instead of taking hits to make plays. Although his creativity has helped him earn top power play minutes and create dangerous chances, Felix Unger-Sorum needs to embrace contact and puck battles as opposed to his more avoidant approach. I’d expect him to rack up points in the Chicago Wolves’ top six in the coming years rather than grind out fourth-line minutes for the Canes. With the sheer number of similar players Carolina has in the system, it’s tough to project where Felix fits in at the next level.

8 - Ivan Ryabkin

One year ago, Ivan Ryabkin was being compared to other high-flying Russian offensive dynamos Matvei Michkov and Ivan Demidov. Putting up 58 points as a 16-year-old in the MHL was an impressive feat, and, naturally, everyone was expecting an even bigger offensive explosion. What ended up happening was an explosion of the worst kind. Rumored off-ice issues with Moscow Dynamo flared up almost immediately and seemed to be confirmed when he was shipped off to Muskegon in the USHL in January. Despite the negative reputation this location change gave him, Ryabkin turned around his case with his play. Finding a goal-scoring touch, his offence looked solid in his 41-game stint with the Lumberjacks. In addition to his shot, Ryabkin has always been a great distributor, creating great chances for his teammates consistently. I would also be remiss if I didn’t point out Ryabkin’s pestilence and grit. This guy is NOT fun to play against, becoming infamous for his borderline illegal hits and ability to piss off opposing teams. Some of his drawbacks naturally arise from this questionable play, tending to take some egregiously bad penalties at times. Ryabkin also struggles with skating speed and overall conditioning. Taking his height and weight into consideration, he is essentially a bowling ball on the ice. Ivan Ryabkin is undoubtedly one of the most divisive prospects in all of hockey today, though there is still a legitimate path for him to make the NHL.

9 - Justin Robidas

Justin Robidas entered his second pro season this past year with the Chicago Wolves after spending the previous year with the ECHL’s Norfolk Admirals. He posted extremely impressive totals with 55 points through 70 games in the AHL and two points in two games with the Carolina Hurricanes. While he’s on the shorter end, Robidas is incredibly smart and has some of the best timing of any AHL prospect I’ve seen recently. His game is so fluid that, as a viewer, I question if defenders have any impact on him when working the give-and-go on the rush. Justin hits cross crease passes with ease, using deception to open seams and throw goalies off. Robidas is another offensive-minded, undersized Canes forward, so the competition for ice time will be fierce, but Robidas deserves a greater shot to prove himself in the NHL next year, given how his brain has translated to points at every level of play so far.

10 - Noel Fransen

In spite of poor team performance, Fransen’s first full season of pro hockey was a resounding success and he’s looking like a potential draft steal. He was a key piece on the backend for Västerås IK, confidently carrying pucks end to end with his strong mobility and supplying a ton of offence thanks to his excellent playmaking ability and deadly shot. In fact, he led all defencemen in the HockeyAllsvenskan under the age of 21 in scoring. His defensive reads and defensive zone play in general still needs improvement, but it’s clear he’s getting better with experience. Fransén was projected to be a high-ceiling, low floor prospect in his draft year. As his defensive zone play, explosiveness, and physical strength and resilience improve, so too will his chance of hitting that ceiling. He’s passed the HockeyAllsvenskan test with flying colours, but the SHL will be a different beast. If he can find success there with Färjestad BK, then he should make the jump to North America a year or two after.

11 - Simon Forsmark

All before turning 22, Forsmark already has 150 games under his belt at the SHL level. A fourth-round pick in 2022, Forsmark has turned into a solid top four defenceman for Timrå IK. Forsmark has continued to improve his offensive production while remaining a solid defender. He should remain an impactful defenceman for Timrå IK before the Hurricanes sign him to an entry-level contract or let his rights expire on June 1.

12 - Domenick Fensore

Fensore is as dynamic a defender as they come and makes you forget that he is undersized at all. He was an almost 0.5 point-per-game player for the Wolves last season and shined in his two games with the Hurricanes when he was called up. With Scott Morrow out of the picture, Fensore’s usage will likely increase in almost all situations. Don’t be surprised if he runs away with the opportunity as the Wolves’ best offensive defenceman.

13 - Gleb Trikozov

Two leg injuries cost Trikozov almost his entire North American debut season. In the 20 games he did play, the Russian didn’t produce much that was noteworthy and largely struggled. Injuries and issues translating his game from Russia to the AHL will be the key things Trikozov looks to leave behind this season. If he can get back to his game, he should be a solid middle six playmaker for the Wolves.

14 - Aleksi Heimosalmi

Heimosalmi finds himself in a tough spot after a rough 2024-25 season in the AHL with the Chicago Wolves. A -29 plus-minus combined with 14 points in 56 games doesn’t help the Finn, who will be competing just for ice time this year. With Dominik Badinka moving over to North America, Heimosalmi likely finds himself in a make-or-break year as a prospect. He’ll be battling for third-pairing minutes in the AHL this season.

15 - Ryan Suzuki

At 24 years old, Suzuki may not even be considered a prospect by some. Last season, he led the Wolves with 59 points as the team’s first-line center. Suzuki will assume the same role this season as an older prospect / younger vet who can help get the best out of some of the other prospects. Barring unlucky injuries for the Hurricanes down the middle, Suzuki will remain with the Wolves as their best offensive-driving center.

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

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

1. New York Islanders - Matthew Schaefer - Defense

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

2. San Jose Sharks - Michael Misa - Center

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

3. Chicago Blackhawks - Caleb Desnoyers - Center

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

4. Utah Mammoth - Anton Frondell - Center

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

5. Nashville Predators - James Hagens - Center

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

6. Philadelphia Flyers - Porter Martone - Wing

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

7. Boston Bruins - Brady Martin - Center

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

8. Seattle Kraken - Radim Mrtka - Defense

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

9. Buffalo Sabres - Victor Eklund - Wing

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

10. Anaheim Ducks - Jake O’Brien - Center

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

11. Pittsburgh Penguins - Roger McQueen - Center

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

12. New York Rangers - Jackson Smith - Defense

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

13. Detroit Red Wings - Kashawn Aitcheson - Defense

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

14. Columbus Blue Jackets - Justin Carbonneau - Wing

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

15. Vancouver Canucks - Braeden Cootes - Center

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

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

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

17. Montreal Canadiens - Blake Fiddler - Defense

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

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

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

19. St. Louis Blues - Lynden Lakovic - Wing

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

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

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

21. Ottawa Senators - Jakob Ihs Wozniak - Wing

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

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

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

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

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

24. Los Angeles Kings - Sascha Boumedienne - Defense

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

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

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

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

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

27. Washington Capitals - Henry Brzustewicz - Defense

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

28. Winnipeg Jets - Milton Gastrin - Center

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

29. Carolina Hurricanes - Cullen Potter - Center/Wing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Chicago Blackhawks - Simon Wang - Defense

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

35. Nashville Predators - Kurban Limatov - Defense

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

36. Philadelphia Flyers - Jacob Rombach - Defense

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

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

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

38. Seattle Kraken - Eric Nilson - Center

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

39. Buffalo Sabres - Shane Vansaghi - Wing/Center

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

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

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

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

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

42. New York Islanders - Ben Kindel - Center

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

43. New York Rangers - Cole McKinney - Center

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

44. Detroit Red Wings - Alexander Zharovsky - Wing

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

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

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

46. Utah Mammoth - Ivan Ryabkin - Center

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

47. Vancouver Canucks - Semyon Frolov - Goaltender

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

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

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

49. Montreal Canadiens - Jack Murtagh - Wing

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

50. New Jersey Devils - Matthew Gard - Center

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

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

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

52. Minnesota Wild - Petteri Rimpinen - Goaltender

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

58. Vegas Golden Knights - Max Psenicka - Defense

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brock Otten — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:10:01 +0000

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

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

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

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

2025 NHL DRAFT: Summer of 25′ – Introducing Russia

Steven Graves and Henry Lawrence — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:45:19 +0000

It hasn’t even been a month since the 2024 NHL Draft in Vegas. However, that hasn’t stopped us from thinking about the 2025 Draft. Welcome to a series at McKeen’s Hockey that aims to introduce you to some of the top prospects from each region for 2025. The disclaimer is that…it’s early. The names on these lists are not likely to be the exact same as the ones you see next June. However, we thought it was important for you to know some of the top players heading into the season. Next up is Russia. Scouting the region continues to be challenging given that Russia (and Belarus) continues to be barred from participating in international tournaments (like the recent Hlinka/Gretzky). However, the CHL reversed their decision to allow Russian players back in their leagues as Imports and we do see that represented in this list. How strong is this group from Russia? That's a tough question given the inability to compare at tournaments head-to-head. However, the region looks to have a potential top five selection in addition to several potential first rounders. That would put it on par with the 2024 group on paper. Let's dive in.

#1 - Ivan Ryabkin - Center - Dynamo Moskva (KHL/MHL)

Ivan Ryabkin is the big fish from Russia this year and it is not a reach to pencil him in as a top 5 pick in the incredibly talented 2025 draft class. He had an insanely impressive MHL debut season, scoring 24 goals and 58 points in 44 games, placing him 2nd on the total points list and the 5th highest points per game for DY-1 players in MHL history. Fans drooled over the prospect of their team drafting top Russian forwards Matvei Michkov and Ivan Demidov during the past two years and if your favorite team missed out on either of those two, you’re in luck because Ryabkin is the next installment of elite Russian forward talent.

Ivan is an incredibly smart and talented playmaker. He sees the ice very well, allowing him to plan out his next option before the puck has even reached his blade. He executes one-touch and no-look passes with ease, setting up teammates for tap-in finishes around the cage with dishes that look effortless. He is calm under pressure and does not allow opponents to force him into bad choices. The only time when Ivan gets into trouble is when he overcomplicates his choices in an attempt to create highlight reel assists. He is an incredibly talented player which affords him the ability to attempt passes that no one else would think of. At times this becomes a hindrance as he forces no look plays and extremely dangerous attempts that land directly on the tape of an opponent. He will need to work on his ability to choose when a flashy pass is too much for the situation at hand.

Another impressive part of Ryabkin’s game is his handling and problem-solving abilities. He has elite hands and is able to escape just about any difficult situation that he finds himself in. He keeps the puck in motion on his blade, allowing him to quickly move possession to any position around his body and embarrass defenders with well-timed fakes and cuts into space. His skill is built on top of a strong skating ability that allows him to execute many plays that others cannot. He is quick enough to win races, outpace opponents in transition, and is also agile enough to slip through tight lanes and circle opponents with an arsenal of dangles.

He does not have the elite wrist shot that Michkov brings to the table but Ivan shoots well enough to finish the chances that he creates and has a heavy one timer which can be set up on the powerplay. Ryabkin’s goal scoring is less shot based and more reliant on his ability to make his way to the net with quick fakes, but he can score from distance if given the space.

Without the puck, Ivan plays a hard-nosed, physical game. He forechecks hard and wins battles using strong body checks and by winning inside positioning with well planned cuts. He is very strong for his age and puts all of his weight into every body check. He often performs textbook takeaways, freezing his opponent with a heavy check while simultaneously swiping the puck and quickly picking his head up to find the next play.

Ivan Ryabkin does not have the goal scoring ability that Michkov possesses. He is not the slippery offensive talent that is Ivan Demidov. What he is, is a perfect combination of the two. He is a dynamic offensive forward with the hands and brain to escape any challenge put in his way. He is a Kucherov-esque playmaker with the ability to see options before they fully develop and prepare his next move before the puck has reached his stick. He plays solid defense, bringing a physical presence and tactical forecheck strategy allowing him to steal possession with ease. Ryabkin is a player that will likely split his time between the KHL and MHL this season and if all goes to plan, he will develop into an elite two-way forward, ready to transform a lucky NHL franchise's future for the better.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-ivan_ryabkin_-_3rd_period_1_8_-_1_20.mp4

Show me another player that can pull off no-look, spinning, backhand passes directly on the tape for an easy tap-in. I’ll wait.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-ivan_ryabkin_-_2nd_period_21_35_-_21_47.mp4

Very impressive rush, showing off his speed and ability to embarrass defenders with his hands, leading to a chance in tight.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-ivan_ryabkin_-_2nd_period_30_48_-_31_0.mp4

Here, Ryabkin does a great job escaping two defenders but ruins his hard work with a careless, no-look, behind the back pass resulting in a turnover.

#2 - Artyom Vilchinsky - Defense - SKA-1946 (MHL)

Vilchinsky is the most intriguing defensive prospect from this year's talented Russian crop. He uses all of his 6’6, 240 lbs frame to become a human wrecking ball in the defensive end and does not back down from any challengers after the whistle. He was often trusted with top pairing minutes in this past season with SKA-1946 which is a rare feat for a U17 player on one of the MHL’s most talented rosters.

Defensively, Vilchinsky is very responsible and was able to handle nearly everything thrown at him this season. Through continuous scans, he is able to anticipate developing plays and position himself for tight coverage in his own end. He uses his size to push players off the puck and makes it very difficult to battle for space in front of the net. He positions himself well to take away passing lanes and protects his goal with proactive choices, stepping up at the perfect time to deflect incoming shots and passes.

Artyom moves surprisingly well for his size. He is able to rush coast to coast when he has an open lane up ice and can pick up decent speed when given enough space. He moves well on his edges, able to escape from incoming pressure with a series of quick, precise pivots before rapidly distributing the puck up ice. He will need to improve his backwards skating speed as well as agility to be able to stay in front of higher levels of talent. He showed off impressive transition defense for a DY-1 player, angling opponents towards the boards before sealing them off with a thundering check but was beaten many times by some of the older, quicker players in the MHL.

The biggest improvements that we are hoping to see from Artyom this season involve his play with the puck. His handling ability needs work as he is unable to make it past opponents when the puck is not shielded by his body. He fumbles possession every once in a while and will need to improve his puck control if he intends on joining the offense more often in the upcoming season. Sometimes his passing decisions left a lot to be desired. He often rushed the decision-making process when under tight pressure and even when he had time, many of his attempts missed their intended target.

Artyom Vilchinsky is a player that we are very excited to watch this upcoming season. He resembles a young Chris Pronger combined with the current iteration of Nikita Zadorov. If he is able to improve his play with the puck and continues his upward defensive growth, he has the potential to become an extremely talented two-way monster, destroying everything in his path.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-artyom_vilchinsky_-_1st_period_26_2_-_26_14.mp4

When you go 1v1 with Vilchinsky, you better be prepared to run into a moving brick wall.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-artyom_vilchinsky_-_1st_period_18_52_-_19_4.mp4

Moves pretty well for a big guy. Not the smoothest rush but impressive speed and a clean entry.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-artyom_vilchinsky_-_3rd_period_10_15_-_10_27.mp4

Under pressure he tends to fold. In this case, a forechecking forward causes Artyom to put his head down and throw the puck up the middle of the ice without looking.

#3 Kurban Limatov - Defence - MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)

With how the NHL is going back to size, skating and physicality with how teams draft in recent seasons, it comes as no surprise that Limatov is ranked this high on this list. He is undoubtedly the top Russian defender in his age group and should be a rather high selection in the 2025 draft if he continues to progress as he has. Personally, I think he might even see some attention in the top 15 (Maybe even higher). The 6’4” Limatov will play the season in Dynamo Moscow junior system and may even see some men’s league games as the season progresses.

Standing at 6'4", Limatov possesses the physical attributes necessary to dominate in the defensive zone. Once he is able to fill out his body, the advantage he will have with his frame and strength will enable him to excel in physical battles along the boards and in front of the net, where he’ll be able to effectively use his size to gain positioning in front of the net and dominate battles due to his frame.

Limatov has an impressive skating ability, it is highlighted by a fluid stride that allows him to cover the ice efficiently. This mobility is crucial for transitioning between from defence into offense - enabling him to support the rush and recover quickly when play shifts. On the offensive side, Limatov exhibits competent puck-handling skills and is comfortable carrying the puck up the ice and facilitating offence from the blueline. Although not yet an elite offensive defenseman, his vision and ability to facilitate play at his size, will leave teams drooling at the draft on what he could be if he further develops this part of his game.

Although a raw prospect, Limatov has a lot of what teams have been searching for at the draft table in recent years. If he has a big year and is able to impress in men’s league games, there is a player here in Limatov that will gauge a ton of NHL interest throughout the season.

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This play really showcases Limatov’s potential as a standout shutdown defender. He is able to initiate contact on the opposing forward, take him off the puck and tie him up in one motion and it allows his teammate to collect the puck, and his team is off in transition.

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This clip highlights Limatov’s offensive side a bit. He steps into the play late and gets lost in coverage as he pinches from the blueline, He gets the puck after a nice pass from his teammate, only to fool everyone on the ice and pass it right back to his forward in front of the net for an easy goal. There are some deceptive elements to Limatov’s game, and he hasn’t yet harnessed these offensive abilities.

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Here we see Limatov again being deceptive at the blueline, this time he uses great head movements and feet positioning to freeze the defence which allows his teammate to get an excellent shot on net that he converts on. All the result of Limatov’s fakes.

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This play shows how good Limatov’s rush defence can be, he maintains his gap well, then as the forward gains the zone, he closes in with his stick, quickly pivots to avoid the forward to make a cut towards the net, maintains his strong body and stick positioning and forces him around the net to try again. Picture perfect defence on this play and it’s plays like this that really excite me.

#4 Pyotr Andreyanov - Goalie - Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)

Andreyanov is another in a long line of promising Russian goaltending prospects. Andreyanov has consistently been the goalie the Russian’s turn to whenever they do best on best tournaments in the country and he has played up age groups, and in cases multiple age groups for his CSKA Moskva squads. This past season in the MHL, Andreyanov posted fantastic totals, going 9-8-0 with a .916sv% in 20 games played. A feat that is very impressive for a 16-year-old goalie in the MHL. If Andreyanov wasn’t only 6’0”, he could legitimately be discussed as a goalie that could go in the top 20 of the draft.

His goaltending fundamentals are excellent, with a strong emphasis on positioning, athleticism, and glove work. Andreyanov’s ability to read the play and position himself effectively in the crease is thanks to his advanced mechanics in the crease. His movements are precise and calculated, allowing him to cover the net efficiently and make accurate saves. This technical proficiency is complemented by his ability to maintain a consistent, compact stance, which minimizes openings for opposing shooters.

Andreyanov also has great agility and reflexes. His quick lateral movements allow him to cover the net effectively and respond swiftly to cross-ice passes and deflections. Andreyanov’s reflexes are sharp, enabling him to make rapid, reactionary saves that many goalies his age aren’t ready for. Andreyanov’s composure under pressure and ability to remain focused in high-stress situations are a big reason why he has consistently been called upon as a starter for his age group in Russia when the Russian Federation runs tournaments within the country. He is an ultra-competitor also, who doesn’t like to lose. This is something that you need in a goaltender and is something that Andreyanov showed after losing to the Belarusian U20 team in a tournament last season.

I’m personally hopeful we can see Andreyanov gain a few inches between now and the draft because he is one of the more talented goalies to be eligible for the NHL draft in recent years. 2025 looks to be a good year for goaltending talent and Andreyanov is just one of those vying to be the first taken.

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Andreyanov may be small, but man can he move so quick in the net. Here his defender coughs up the puck and Andreyanoiv is forced to make a quick stop on a breakaway in tight, he gets his pad out and makes the great save.

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Here shows how well Andreyanov can move side-to-side in the net, he has a powerful pushoff after a cross-ice pass, gets set quickly and makes the save and pushes back for a rebound opportunity that doesn’t come.

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Another great save after a great pushoff that sees him take away a sure one-timer goal by getting his pad out.

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After his team coughs up the puck, Andreyanov is left to fend off the breakaway chance by himself - he stays square to the shooter and waits for the shooter to commit before he does even though he is coming down fast. Great blocker save is the result.

#5 - Ruslan Karimov- Center - Sarnia Sting (OHL)

While writing this article, Ruslan Karimov officially signed a contract with the Sarnia Sting of the OHL after being selected 6th overall in the CHL import draft. Despite the fact that he no longer plays in Russia, we felt that it was necessary to highlight one of the most impressive power forwards in the class of 2025. Ruslan started the 2023-24 season playing for Sputnik Almetievsk where he scored 13 goals and 22 points in 25 games. This is an impressive total for a U17 player on a lesser quality MHL team. His rights were traded to Ak Bars Kazan, and he will travel overseas to get a taste of the OHL this year.

Karimov is an unrelenting, limitless ball of energy. Every time he steps over the boards he has one mission: to outwork his opponents for possession by any means necessary. He plays the game at a very high pace and makes his presence known through constant physical pressure. He finishes his checks hard and then immediately jumps on loose pucks, quickly shifting attention towards the offensive zone. He forced a seemingly infinite number of turnovers every game and was a huge asset on both sides of the puck.

Offensively, his speed and will to win inside positioning allowed him to produce consistently but he will need to smooth out the rough edges of his game to continue to produce in the OHL and at higher levels. His hands are a bit clunky, and he has a habit of forcing over complicated dekes at the offensive blue line. In most situations, a quick fake and hard push wide with his speed would have done the job. His skating is effective right now but will need improvements in order to continue his forward growth. His leg extensions are short and awkwardly push out to the sides, but he is still able to generate great speed with this form.

His best offense comes as a netfront pest. He carves out space using a combination of strength and well-timed cuts to take up valuable real estate in the slot. He is constantly able to get sticks on loose pucks before anyone else and does a great job redirecting any passes or shots that come his way. Ruslan also showed some potential as a playmaker throughout the course of this season. At times he found cutting teammates with near perfect passes, just seconds after collecting the puck. Like most players in their DY-1, his decision making will need work but I do not feel that it is a reach to suggest that we will see improvements to the passing side of his game this year.

While it is disappointing that we will not get to watch Ruslan tear up the MHL next season, I think the decision to move to Sarnia will be great for his development. He will have the opportunity to go up against some of the best players in the world on a daily basis and work with new coaches to grow many aspects of his game. His non-stop motor, muscle, and visible intensity provide a boost of energy for his team. He will quickly become the favorite player of coaches, fans, and teammates in Ontario.

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Hard charge into space and a great finish in tight.

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Great effort on the forecheck and forces his man to take a seat with a booming body check.

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Impressive speed and lane choice to transport the puck into the offensive zone but Ruslan stickhandles himself into submission and settles for a poor shot from deep.

#6 - German Suzdorf - Center - SKA-1946 (MHL)

German Suzdorf is a 6’4 center who impressed us this past season with his strong two-way play and drastic improvement arc over the course of 23-24 season. His statline of 10 goals, 16 points, and a -12 in 47 games does not look impressive by any means but we believe that there is a lot more under the surface, ready to be unleashed. He played this past season with SKA Yunior, St. Petersburg’s new development team in the MHL, but he has earned a spot on SKA’s top junior team, 1946, for this upcoming year. German made a good impression over the course of last season and will have a great opportunity to grow on one of the MHL top teams.

Suzdorf uses his size well without the puck to angle opponents towards the boards. This strategy is mostly utilized while on the penalty kill and in defensive transition where he forces opponents towards the outside before swiping the puck away with a quick poke, or seals them off with a check. He jumps into passing lanes at the perfect times to disrupt passes and is not afraid to step in front of a shot. He will need to improve his agility to stay with quicker opponents and really dig deep on every shift to become recognized as an elite defender.

On the offensive side of the puck, German will need to make improvements to nearly every aspect of his game but has a good base to build upon. He often chooses the safest option and very rarely takes risks to create offensive opportunities. He opts to move the puck around the wall and never seems to make cuts towards the inside. He has a heavy wrist shot which he needs to use more often but does finish his chances around the net converting on 90.9% of his high danger chances. He moves pretty well north-south for his size, picking up good speed in the neutral zone but lacks the agility to keep that speed going in all directions. His hands are a bit clunky but there was improvement shown over the course of the year that makes us hopeful for the upcoming season.

Suzdorf is probably the biggest work in progress on this list. There will have to be many improvements made to his on-puck game during the offseason and over the course of next season but he has shown many valuable qualities that make us excited about his future. He plays great defense for his age, shutting down opponents with well-timed step ups, pokes, blocks, and body checks to break up plays. He transitions the puck well, barreling up ice with possession and consistently earning the offensive blue line. German showed a lot of promise this season while on an extremely young and inexperienced roster. Playing on SKA-1946 will surely bring great improvements to his overall game and increase his offensive output drastically.

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A great example of German closing off his opponent with a well-timed cut behind the net and hard body check, separating the puck and creating extended time in the offensive zone.

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Here, he makes a good read on a chaotic regroup, jumping on a no-look pass and charging to the net for a goal.

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German struggles to beat defenders 1v1 when in transition and in most zone entry clips, stays to the outside with no attempt to cut in.

#7 Yegor Murashev - Winger - MHK Spartak Moskva (MHL)

Murashev is definitely one of the most exciting offensive players out of Russia for this class. The speedy winger has been one of the top players in his age group for years now and if his height started with a “6” he would be a kid that would be talked about in the top 20 for this draft class. Murashev played the past few seasons for Mamonty Yugry in the MHL, where he has a solid 20 points in 41 games this past year but was traded to Spartak Moskva in the offseason and will play in their junior system going forward. I’d like to add, too, that Murashev does look taller than his listed 5’10” frame, so there is potential he has/will see growth.

As for his game play style - Murashev’s game is marked by a high level of agility that he uses to keep defenders guessing in the offensive zone and also an innate ability to read the game at a high level. This allows him to make pinpoint passes and create scoring opportunities for his teammates with frequency while also being a dangerous scoring threat, himself.

Murashev’s skating is fantastic - he combines speed with smooth, fluid movements, which makes him difficult to defend against. His skating agility allows him to maneuver around defenders with ease, creating space and opportunities that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. This fluidity in movement not only enhances his offensive capabilities but also enables him to evade checks and maintain possession under pressure. Murashev skating, both in terms of acceleration and top-end speed, puts pressure on opposing defenders, forcing them into making split-second decisions that often lead to mistakes and allows Murashev to take advantage for offensive chances.

Murashev needs to bulk up to handle physicality as he progresses to hockey against men and will need to show more effort into becoming more engaged in the defensive end but as of now he is a offensive threat whenever he steps on the ice and is poised for a big season in the MHL.

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This is a play that shows how shifty Murashev can be. He gets the puck below the net on a powerplay and fakes out the defence after cutting to the net, only to relay the puck over to his streaking teammate from the point for the easy tap in goal. Great vision and creativity here.

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Here is Murashev getting the puck quickly over to his teammate while in tight. It shows that even as a smaller guy, Murashev isn’t afraid to try and create offence in front of the net.

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Murashev does a great job to speed to the outside here, attack the net with speed and has a great backhand finish to boot.

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This play is actually started by our #3 ranked Limatov after he makes a great pinch to take the puck away and get the puck to Murashev who shows off his silky mitts for a clean finish. Murashev really showcases his skillset here.

#8 Kirill Yemelyanov - Center - Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)

Yemelyanov is a player I’m pretty excited about for this draft class and a guy I can see making his way up this list as the season progresses. Yemelyanov is a two-way center that is able to make an impact on the game in all three zones. A player in Lokomotiv Yaroslavl’s system, Kirill enjoyed a productive season as a 16-year-old in the MHL last year, putting up 20 points in 44 games. He has also been a mainstay for Russia internationally among his age group and has been one of the more productive players among that age group.

Kirill Yemelyanov has a combination of power and a motor that is always going that allows him to play a robust, energetic game that impacts all areas of the ice. Offensively, he excels with his ability to maintain puck possession in tight spaces, using his hands and balance to create scoring opportunities in tight. There’s a reason he was one of Loko’s net front threats on the power play last season.

Although not a high-volume shooter, Yemelyanov’s shooting skills are most noticeable during close-range chances and net-front battles where he does an excellent job positioning himself for rebounds and second chance opportunities. Defensively, Yemelyanov stands out for his responsible play. He is consistently engaged in his own zone, showcasing strong positioning and effective backchecking. His physical play enhances his defensive game, allowing him to disrupt opponents’ plays with the threat of an oncoming hit and helps his ability win battles along the boards with regularity.

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Yemelyanov has a great finish here on the odd man rush, he has speed into the neutral zone and uses it to cause the defender to pivot and try to make a play - Yemelyanov doesn’t make a mistake once the puck is gotten to him, nice finish.

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Showcasing some nice speed here as he beats the defence and is in alone against the goalie - makes a nice backhand move for the nice goal.

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Great anticipation here from Yemelyanov - who finds open ice and gets off a world class shot to beat the goalie.

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After some drama in front of the net after a good scoring chance for his team, Yemelyanov realizes that the defence is puck watching and repositions himself in open ice for the goal. Yemelyanov is great at doing this.

#9 - Maxim Agafonov - Defense - Tolpar Ufa (MHL)

Agafonov is a fun, highly skilled offensive-defenseman that likes to play fast and can score highlight reel goals while also playing solid defense. He made quite an impression with Krasnaya Armiya during his call up causing him to stick around in the MHL and will suit up for Tolpar Ufa for his draft year season.

Maxim is incredibly confident and has the skill to pull off moves many other players on this list wouldn’t even attempt. He takes the puck deep into the offensive zone often and uses quick dekes to cut inside to get shots on goal. He quarterbacks the puck well from the point, using smooth edgework to walk the line into space before firing passes to teammates around the offensive zone. He will need to increase his number of high danger passes over the course of the next season. He does not take many risks which is the main reason that he only scored 8 points this past season despite having the talent to create offense on his own. He has quick feet and can explode up ice to join the rush, becoming an extra passing option with the skill to make his way to the net and finish chances.

In the defensive end is where Maxim is not as talented but has shown off lots of good moments that suggest room for improvement over the course of the next season. He uses his quick feet to stay in front of opponents and does a great job of taking away sticks around the net. He makes constant scans of the defensive end and makes good reads, countering offensive shifts with strong positioning. He lacks physicality and has a lot of trouble fighting for possession along the boards and in front of the net. He goes into board battles with a lack of energy and shies away from contact during races for 50/50 pucks. Adding strength will need to be a major focus during this offseason. He also has a bad habit of whacking the puck away without looking which typically results in an unnecessary turnover. This is a crutch that he must eliminate, and he needs to become more comfortable holding onto the puck under pressure in the defensive end.

Agafonov is a very interesting player that we are excited to watch during this upcoming season. He is incredibly talented and uber confident on the offensive side of the puck, making him one of the most fun players in this year's draft. The biggest concern that we have right now is that he plays the game with a forward’s brain. All of his decisions are geared towards offense and there were many times during our viewings that we came away thinking that he might be better off switching to forward for the upcoming year. Despite this thought, his defensive game did improve over the course of the season. He makes good reads of the opponents’ options and takes away chances in front of the net with quick pokes and stick lifts. Maxim’s game is either going to explode over the course of the next season or we will begin to find more holes in his lack of progression. Either way we are excited to see his follow up to an entertaining MHL debut this year.

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Not many DY-1 players have the confidence or skill to cut inside like that.

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Well timed defensive play to shut down an offensive chance with a quick poke immediately followed by a smart play to take away an opponent's stick to thwart a chance at the empty net.

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Max goes into this board battle soft, causing a loss of possession and extended zone time for his opponents. Easily avoidable if he had played the body and fought for possession.

#10 Mikhail Fyodorov - Winger - Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk (MHL)

Mikhail Fyodorov is a skilled forward known for his offensive creativity and strong puck-handling abilities, making him a dangerous threat in the offensive end. Standing at 5'11" and weighing just 160 pounds, Fyodorov can benefit alot from adding more weight to his frame. Although his skating is effective, he could benefit from more explosive acceleration and top-end speed. He enjoyed a good season in the MHL this past year, putting up 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points in 39 games. Although he is a late birthday, being born in December - there is still a lot of development to be done by Fyodorov.

His strength lies in his great vision and playmaking skills - Fyodorov is able to create scoring opportunities through smart passes and intelligent offensive positioning. Fyodorov’s puck control is impressive, allowing him to maneuver in tight spaces and execute high-level plays while in tight. He has the ability to take over games in stretches because of his ability to create in the offensive zone.

Fyodorov’s potential if he makes the NHL is that of a player who has the ability to be versatile. He has the tools to be a reliable middle-six forward who can contribute offensively. His upside includes the possibility of developing into a top six forward if he continues to refine his game and add more mass to his frame, and continued refinement of his skating ability.

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Fyodorov attacks the middle of the ice with speed, is given some time and gets off a great wrist shot that gets through the defence’s sticks and beats the goalie.

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Fyodorov decides to attack the net after driving to the outside and it allows his teammate to bang home the rebound he created by doing so. Even as a more slender player he is willing to get to the net from time to time.

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In this play while on the powerplay, Fyodorov is constantly moving around trying to get lost in coverage. He sees his opportunity to strike and burns to the backdoor for the easy tap-in goal.

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This is one of my favourite clips of Fyodorov - he trails his teammate into the zone, awaits the drop pass and gets a shot off quick after he gets the pass. He is stopped but doesn’t give up on the play and gets his own rebound and bangs home the goal.

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

HM - Kirill Kutuzov - Center - Irbis Kazan (MHL)

Early in the season it looked like Kirill Kutuzov would cement himself as a top 3 Russian in the class of ‘25 with 7 goals in his first 8 games. After that initial hot streak, the goals became a lot harder to come by, causing Kirill to slip in and out of the Irbis lineup. He finished the season with 13 goals in 30 games and was able to stabilize his draft stock by improving other parts of his game, creating one of the most intriguing players eligible for the 2025 draft.

Kutuzov is a speedy forward who uses his skilled hands and deceptive body fakes to weave his way through defenders in the offensive zone. He has a heavy wrist shot which he is not afraid to use and hits his target often. He occupies the net front position on the powerplay where he is very effective in tipping pucks and getting sticks on loose rebounds.

Over the course of the season, Kirill showed drastic improvements in his play without the puck. Towards the end of the year, we began to see a much more engaged player in his own end. He joined battles along the boards and worked hard to dig pucks out of scrums. His forechecking effort improved as well, flying into the offensive zone after dumped pucks and throwing his weight around below the goal line to earn possession.

Next season we need to see improvements to Kutuzov’s decision making when forced into difficult situations. When he has time and space, he is able to make quick, smart decisions but the second pressure comes, he coughs the puck up. His north-south skating will need some technical improvements, but he still generates great speed and uses his edges well to sneak past defenders and slip through tight lanes on his way to the net.

Kutuzov has a ton of talent, pulling off highlight reel dekes and finishing his chances in tight. He will need to take his game to the next level to be seen as a worthwhile draft selection but has a great base of skill to build upon.

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Absolute rocket one-timer on the powerplay.

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Great vision in transition. Spots his teammate and hits him with a flawless spin pass

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On the flip side, Kirill often throws passes without looking, resulting in unforced turnovers.

HM - Semyon Frolov - Goalie - Ladia Togliatti (MHL)

Frolov is one of many promising young goalies that are poised to come out of Russia in this class. He is a 6’3” goalie that is playing in Lada Togliatti’s junior system with their MHL team where this past season he saw 15 games while posting a 7-4-2 record with a .907sv%.

Frolov consistently showcases a solid stance and precise positioning, which allows him to cover the net effectively and minimize scoring opportunities for opponents. His agility and quick reflexes are excellent; he demonstrates excellent lateral movement and the ability to adjust his body seamlessly to make saves, whether facing a quick one-timer or a complex scoring chance.

Frolov remains composed and focused. even in the most stressful situations, exhibiting a resilience that allows him to recover quickly from difficult moments and maintain his play throughout game. If Frolov continues to play like he has, there is a really good chances he sees his name called in the first 3 rounds of the draft. He is just another in the long line of promising Russian goalie prospects.

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Frolov stays big in his crease and is able to fend off a shot in the slot with no sticks in the shooting lane. This is because he came out so far in his crease.

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In this play, Frolov does a great job of keeping his head up and tracking the player on the breakaway - really makes this save look easy even though it wasn’t.

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Excellent push off and second effort by Frolov here as he makes some nice desperation saves after getting hemmed in.

HM - Eduard Bondar - Defense - Akademiya SKA Yunior (MHL)

Bondar is a 6’4, two-way defender with a ton of upside. We decided to leave him out of the top 10 because he is really rough around the edges. He played for SKA Yunior this past season, checking into 42 games and collecting 4 points in his first MHL campaign.

He uses his size well to win battles, finishing his checks hard and attempting to play a mean game in front of his own net. He is engaged in the defensive end, showing the foundations of a solid defender but he has many flaws holding him back. He can be over aggressive at times, straying far out of positioning to chase opponents and he is often caught flat footed, reaching with his stick, unable to stop play. His movements can be very spastic and often seem indecisive. He will need to calm his defensive game down and become more disciplined in his positioning to make sure that he doesn’t drift too far from his wide-open man in front of the net.

He moves well for his size and is able to generate great speed up ice when given the runway to do so. His agility is not great. He will likely never be the type of player that can walk the blue line and dance around opponents to create offense, but he can move the puck around reasonably well from the point. His decision making with the puck needs a lot of work. He forces a ton of passes into lanes that aren’t open, rushes choices under pressure, and can cough up pucks without much of a fight. When he has the time and space, he is able to distribute the puck well in the offensive zone, but he will need to become much more comfortable under duress as well as work to move the puck towards the slot to help create more chances for his team.

Bondar is a major work in progress. He will need to improve in just about every facet of his game this upcoming season, but there is a lot that suggests he is capable of doing so. He has the size to win battles, he just needs to improve his strength and become hungrier to win the puck. He has the skating to transition the puck, he just needs to become more confident in his ability to do so. He has the basic understanding of offensive distribution; he just needs to take more risks to get the puck to the net. With practice and by attempting to play the game with a much calmer demeanor, Eduard can become one of the best draft eligible defensemen in Russia. Time will tell if he can rise to the occasion.

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Smart read to jump up ice and become a breakout option. Smooth transition into the offensive zone and a solid shot on goal.

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A well-timed step up in the neutral zone to break up play.

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Bondar must improve his ability to operate under pressure. The opponent closes in on him at the point and he has no escape plan whatsoever.

HM - Vyacheslev Vasilyev - Center - SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)

Vasilyev didn’t have the best season playing for SKA’s MHL squad last season, posting a disappointing 10 points in 36 games, but despite that he is still a guy that offers a ton of promise for 2025. Standing at 6’3”, Vasilyev has been a consistent contributor for Russia’s international teams in his age group. Although not the most fleet of foot, he makes up for it with his ability to get to the front of the net and make high skill plays.

Vasilyev has a good understanding of the game - it allows him to make smart decisions and read plays effectively before they transpire. Vasiliyev’s vision is strong; he can spot teammates in good positions and deliver precise passes, while not given much time and space.

While his size is great, he has yet to utilize it to his advantage fully, yet. He has the will to do it, he just needs to continue to fill out to fully harness his potential with his body. Vasilyev is able to protect the puck well and win battles along the boards and this will only continue further as he matures. His skating ability is lacking, Vasilyev’s skating and agility are limited. His stride needs refinement, and he often coasts around the ice rather than putting much effort in. It’s something I’d like to see him work on this season.

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Here Vasilyev really showcases his vision and passing ability as he feathers the puck back door for the easy tap-in for his teammate.

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Great pass by Vasilyev here to his streaking teammate, he then follows the play and is able to get a great second chance off the rebound opportunity.

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Vasilyev does have a good shot; he does a good job at putting himself in a good scoring position and makes the defence pay for losing him. Excellent shot placement, also.