The NHL draft often reveals hidden talents in later rounds. Despite better scouting and analytics helping teams identify prospects earlier, every year sees impactful players emerge from beyond the initial selections. While drafting legendary players like Pavel Datsyuk or Henrik Lundqvist late is a rarity now, skilled but smaller players are sometimes still overlooked. Lane Hutson, a second-round pick in 2022 (62nd overall), is a recent example of a player whose talent perhaps warranted selection much earlier.
Recent late-round successes include Troy Terry (No. 148 in 2015), Andrew Mangiapane (No. 166, 2015), Jesper Bratt (No. 162, 2016), Brandon Hagel (No. 159, 2016), and Mark Stone (No. 178, 2010). These players all faced concerns during their draft year, whether related to size, skating, or questions about how their game would translate to the NHL. Yet, they`ve significantly surpassed expectations, demonstrating that a player`s draft position isn`t the sole predictor of their NHL future. Earlier picks may get more opportunities, but later picks can absolutely forge successful careers by earning their chances.
A common thread among successful late-round picks is possessing an elite skill in at least one area – what one NHL executive described as a “separating skill” that differentiates them from others.
Statistically, players drafted after the third round face long odds, with less than a 3% chance of playing 200 NHL games and under a 1.5% chance of becoming an impact player (excluding goaltenders). Despite these statistics, taking a chance on players with unique potential is worthwhile, and a few prospects in the 2025 class have separating skills that could significantly increase their chances of beating the odds.
Cameron Schmidt, RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
Despite high public rankings that often place him in the first round, NHL teams are reportedly more hesitant about Schmidt due to his smaller stature at 5-foot-7, potentially projecting him into the third to fifth rounds. However, his potential as a second-line scoring winger, drawing comparisons to Alex Debrincat, is highly appealing. Schmidt possesses multiple separating skills, including arguably elite speed and an outstanding shot. He is a prolific goal-scorer, netting 40 goals in 61 games, capable of scoring in various ways. If he adds some height, his combination of speed and finishing ability could make him a reliable NHL goal-scorer, offering a high reward for teams willing to prioritize skill over size.
Jacob Rombach, D, Lincoln Stars (USHL)
Standing nearly 6-foot-7, Rombach is a physically imposing defenseman with promising potential as a shutdown player. While he lacks the offensive flair often seen in top defensive prospects, he has a clear pathway to becoming a solid fourth or fifth defenseman in the NHL. His defensive skillset is well-developed; he excels at puck retrieval, uses deceptive head fakes to evade pressure, and makes simple, effective passes. Rombach utilizes his large frame to disrupt opponents along the boards and deny zone entries. He avoids chasing big hits, instead focusing on using his stick and positioning to smother players, force turnovers, or prompt dump-ins. Improvements in his skating and physicality could solidify his role as an effective shutdown defender capable of killing penalties and handling secondary matchups.
David Bedkowski, D, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
At nearly 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, Bedkowski is a throwback defender who thrives on physicality, making him arguably the most punishing player in the draft class. While physicality doesn`t always guarantee NHL success, the Florida Panthers` style of play highlights the value of defensemen who combine effective transition defense with a heavy physical presence. Bedkowski is strong at preventing zone entries. If he can refine his decision-making regarding physical engagement, there`s a path for him to become an effective bottom-pair defenseman. His ceiling might not be that of a top-four blueliner, but teams needing depth and brute force for playoff success could find a reliable provider in Bedkowski as he develops.
Bedkowski is no stranger to using brute force on the ice.
Viktor Klingsell, LW, Skelleftea AIK (J20)
A standout performer at the World Under-18 Championships, Klingsell is another prospect with the potential to be a late-round steal. Comparisons to Jesper Bratt arise from their similar size, high-end playmaking abilities, and vision. While his physicality is underdeveloped, his offensive instincts are considered among the best available from European skaters. His main concern is pace, leading to a boom-or-bust profile: he could potentially become a second-line offensive facilitator consistentlyching 50-plus assists, or remain primarily a strong SHL player. However, the potential upside makes him a worthwhile late-round gamble, especially since improving skating is often more achievable than developing natural offensive vision and playmaking.
Filip Ekberg, LW, Ottawa 67`s (OHL)
Another promising Swede, Ekberg is a dual-threat forward whose season saw a significant turnaround after overcoming illness and a limited role early on. His play surged in the latter half, highlighted by a dominant performance at the U18s (18 points in seven games) and an invitation to Sweden`s World Junior summer team. This strong finish suggests he`s on the verge of a major scoring breakout in the OHL, potentially elevating his projection to a middle-six forward at the NHL level. Ekberg is a well-rounded player who anticipates plays, facilitates offense, and boasts an excellent catch-and-release shot. While lacking high-end dynamism, he demonstrated flashes of elite ability when healthy. If he can improve his skating, he possesses the attributes of a smaller player who could succeed in the NHL in a secondary scoring and power-play role.
Aidan Lane, RW, Saint Andrew`s College/Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
Aidan Lane significantly boosted his NHL projection with a standout late-season performance in the OHL, averaging a point per game over 13 contests after transitioning from prep school. Projecting players from prep school can be challenging due to limited sample size, but Lane looked comfortable in a top-six role in Brampton, showing a high motor, strength, physicality, and the ability to generate offense. He projects as a potential bottom-six power winger in the NHL. He demonstrated smooth transition play, drew defenders effectively, and used his physical tools against seasoned OHL players. While his speed and explosiveness need refinement to maximize his impact on the forecheck and create secondary offense, his tools and the development opportunity provided by his NCAA commitment to Harvard make him a potentially high-value pick beyond the fourth round.
L.J. Mooney, RW, USNTDP (USHL)
Despite being another diminutive winger at 5-foot-7, L.J. Mooney is a dynamic and exciting player with multiple separating skills, making him an appealing mid-round gamble. His blistering speed combined with fantastic puck handling makes him a potential nightmare for defenders in transition. For this potential to fully materialize, he needs to develop his playmaking and ability to read the game to consistently attack high-danger areas. Mooney represents a somewhat boom-or-bust profile given his size and playmaking questions. However, his relentless motor, fearless compete level, and willingness to play a complete game distinguish him. For teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, or Detroit Red Wings, who may have multiple mid-round picks and need a dynamic skater with potential legitimate upside, Mooney is a calculated risk worth taking.
