With the IIHF under-18 world championships now concluded and the NHL draft lottery results known, it`s time to present the latest ranking board for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft scheduled for June.
Unlike previous versions, these updated rankings are not solely derived from statistical model outputs. They incorporate significantly more emphasis on player viewings, insights gathered from scouts, and a thorough evaluation of how specific play styles and skills are likely to translate effectively to the demanding NHL level.
Many players have seen their draft stock rise due to enhanced performance projections, unique skill sets, and high potential upside. Conversely, some prospects have dropped in the rankings owing to concerns regarding the translatability of their skills, inconsistencies in their projections, or questions about their ability to perform when their “A” game isn`t present.
This year`s draft class exhibits considerable variability beyond the consensus top two prospects and two additional players closely following them. After these initial few, the draft board is wide open. Teams selecting in the top 10 face interesting choices: opting for a player with a higher floor but potentially lower upside, or taking a chance on a high-risk, high-reward “unicorn” talent. These factors have been weighed in compiling these rankings, which should be viewed as a prospect assessment board, not a prediction of actual draft order.
Considering all these elements, here are the top 32 prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft, along with some honorable mentions.
- 1. Matthew Schaefer D, Erie Otters (OHL)
- 2. Michael Misa C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
- 3. James Hagens C, Boston College Eagles (NCAA)
- 4. Porter Martone RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
- 5. Roger McQueen C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
- 6. Anton Frondell C/RW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
- 7. Jackson Smith D, Tri-City Americans (WHL)
- 8. Victor Eklund LW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
- 9. Caleb Desnoyers C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
- 10. Jake O’Brien C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
- 11. Carter Bear C/LW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
- 12. Brady Martin C/W, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)
- 13. Justin Carbonneau RW, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)
- 14. Radim Mrtka D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
- 15. Logan Hensler D, Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
- 16. Lynden Lakovic LW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
- 17. Braeden Cootes C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
- 18. Kashawn Aitcheson D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
- 19. Cameron Schmidt RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
- 20. Benjamin Kindel RW, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
- 21. Cameron Reid D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
- 22. Cole Reschny LW, Victoria Royals (WHL)
- 23. Cullen Potter LW, Arizona State Sun Devils (NCAA)
- 24. Malcolm Spence LW, Erie Otters (OHL)
- 25. Ivan Ryabkin C, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
- 26. Joshua Ravensbergen G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
- 27. Blake Fiddler D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
- 28. Jack Murtagh C/LW, U.S. National Team Development Program
- 29. Sascha Boumedienne D, Boston University Terriers (NCAA)
- 30. Jack Nesbitt C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
- 31. William Moore C, U.S. National Team Development Program
- 32. Bill Zonnon LW, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
- Honorable mentions (in alphabetical order)
1. Matthew Schaefer
D, Erie Otters (OHL)
The defenseman from the Erie Otters is widely projected to become a foundational, true number one cornerstone player for many years. A dynamic force at both ends of the rink, the 6-2 blueliner possesses effortless skating ability and utilizes his agility effectively to neutralize opponents in one-on-one situations, while also generating offense through excellent rush capabilities. Across the league, many executives and scouts envision him as a future elite NHL defenseman and a core component for a championship-contending roster. With the skillset to dictate play from the blue line, handle challenging matchups, and quarterback a power play, Schaefer has the tools to develop into a top-10 defenseman in the league.
2. Michael Misa
C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Misa, who was granted exceptional status to play in the OHL early, had one of the most impressive goal-scoring seasons in recent memory, netting an astounding 62 goals in just 65 games. He confidently projects as a top-line forward with the potential to consistently achieve a point-per-game rate at the NHL level. Misa`s offensive instincts are considered elite. He processes the game at a rapid pace and executes skills at high speed. He appears ready for the NHL and possesses the potential to become an elite top-line center if his development trajectory continues. His two-way game showed significant improvement this season, and combined with his explosive speed and offensive firepower, Misa profiles as a crucial piece to build a Stanley Cup contender around.
3. James Hagens
C, Boston College Eagles (NCAA)
A highly skilled center, Hagens is projected to be either a top-line center or one of the best second-line centers in the NHL. He brings a strong work ethic along with excellent speed and a two-way game that should enable him to effectively drive play at the NHL level. The refined aspects of his game, such as providing puck support, winning battles, and defensive anticipation, will facilitate his transition to the NHL while he continues to develop his offensive abilities. Hagens likely needs at least one more season at Boston College to further refine his decision-making and add a more dynamic offensive element to reach his potential as a top-line NHL center. His understanding of spacing and his anticipation abilities are particularly noteworthy among his peers. His game shows characteristics of both Clayton Keller (playmaking) and Matty Beniers (two-way ability).
4. Porter Martone
RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
The 6-3 right winger projects as a high-end second-line player, displaying a competitive edge reminiscent of players like Corey Perry and Tom Wilson. A large, physical forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player capable of both scoring goals himself and setting up teammates. His competitive nature will make him an effective agitator, and he has the ability to physically impose himself on opponents. He needs to refine his competitiveness and physicality to maximize their effectiveness and adjust his skating posture for greater efficiency. His unique combination of scoring skill, size, and hard physical play makes him a very appealing prospect. While his most likely outcome is a top-six forward role, Martone has a realistic opportunity to become a top-line winger if his skating sees improvement.
5. Roger McQueen
C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
One of the most debated prospects due to injury issues that limited him to only 17 games this season, yet also possessing incredible natural talent. McQueen has been described as a “unicorn” because he is a 6-5 center who skates with speed and mobility typically seen in smaller players, despite some unconventional mechanics which may be related to adapting to his size. His projection as an elite top-line center carries some uncertainty due to the limited playing time. Elite right-handed centers are uncommon in the NHL, and McQueen`s size coupled with his willingness to physically assert himself add significant value. He demonstrates professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL, alongside unique offensive upside. He represents a classic high-risk, high-reward scenario. McQueen needs to compete against tougher opposition to be forced to develop his ability to protect himself and the puck and generate offense against bigger opponents. With proper development, he could evolve into a two-way force in the NHL.
6. Anton Frondell
C/RW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
Frondell is a flexible two-way forward comfortable playing both center and right wing. His adaptability is appealing to teams, although many believe his potential is best realized as a winger in the NHL. Frondell is coming off one of the most productive seasons by an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, giving him a confident projection as a first-line NHL forward. He is a highly intelligent player who can dismantle defenders in one-on-one situations and find openings in defensive coverage in the offensive zone. The nuanced aspects of Frondell`s game are translatable, including excellent forechecking, a willingness to attack the middle of the ice, and high-level anticipation on both offense and defense. Frondell has demonstrated the ability to drive play against senior-level players in the Allsvenskan, which has historically translated well to the NHL. He is projected to produce between 75 and 85 points per season. His playing style translates well, and scouts are enthusiastic about his ability to potentially step into the league within the next 18 months. His combination of two-way play, great anticipation, and exceptional puck skills make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft.
7. Jackson Smith
D, Tri-City Americans (WHL)
Smith is a large, physical defenseman regarded as the consensus second-best defender in this draft class. As a pure defensive player, Smith possesses all the attributes needed for a top-four matchup role. He excels at defending the rush, effectively closing gaps and directing opposing forwards in transition. His offensive game began to show more development towards the end of the season, and he had a strong showing at the IIHF under-18 tournament. Given the critical importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a genuine opportunity to reach his projected ceiling as a No. 3 matchup defender. Smith combines skating ability, size, and composure. His development will focus on leveraging his excellent mobility to prevent rush offense, becoming a more consistent offensive threat, and continuing to improve his decision-making. If Smith can become a player who can drive play effectively on both sides of the puck in transition, he has the potential to become a No. 2 defender.
8. Victor Eklund
LW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
Eklund projects as a top-six forward with a good possibility of becoming a top-line contributor. Despite concerns about his size, Eklund`s playing style is highly adaptable to the NHL game. He plays significantly bigger than his measurements suggest, characterized by a high-end motor and excellent forechecking capabilities. Should he experience further growth, which has occurred with other prospects, Eklund`s projection as a 70-point producer becomes more certain. Eklund is outstanding in transition, attacking defenders with speed and fearlessness, driving towards the net front, and positioning his body effectively to win or protect pucks. His smaller stature has compelled him to master puck protection using excellent body positioning. His play away from the puck is very advanced and should quickly earn him trust from NHL coaches. He has the potential to be a difference-maker in the NHL, and there is every indication that his combination of determined, hard-nosed play and refined skill will transition smoothly to the professional level.
9. Caleb Desnoyers
C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Desnoyers might be drafted higher than ninth overall due to being one of the best two-way players available in this draft class. He has been described as a coach`s ideal player because he can be assigned either an offensive or checking role and perform consistently in both. Desnoyers is projected to be a solid second-line center with a reasonable chance of developing into a first-line player. He is a smart player with excellent playmaking abilities. His impact isn`t characterized by flashy, highlight-reel plays, but rather by his consistent effectiveness and intelligent decision-making with the puck. In essence, he is highly reliable. As one scouting director noted, “He`s the type of player you win with.” Some quiet comparisons have been made to players like Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews.
10. Jake O’Brien
C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)
O`Brien projects as a point-producing top-six center with the potential to reach a top-line role. The right-handed shot is recognized as one of the premier playmakers in the draft, regularly generating high-danger scoring opportunities. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills would become even more valuable if he can improve his skating speed. His two-way game has shown consistent improvement throughout the season, demonstrated through effective puck support, strong defensive tracking, and sound stick positioning. While he lacks dynamic skating, he plays a projectable two-way game. There is some risk due to his slighter build compared to other centers available, but O`Brien should comfortably become a top-six point producer in the NHL.
11. Carter Bear
C/LW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)
Bear is the kind of player highly sought after by teams looking for elite skill and playmaking talent. He is versatile and projects as a second-line player capable of 65-75 points, with most observers believing he will transition to a full-time winger role in the NHL. He is an exceptional playmaker with excellent hands in tight areas, making him a threat around the net and one of the best offensive facilitators in the draft class. In addition to his offensive strengths, Bear possesses professional defensive habits that should translate well. His skating posture needs adjustment to become more upright, which would allow him to develop a more explosive stride to leverage his skills. Bear represents a good blend of soft and hard skills with dependable defensive traits, making him an ideal second-line player who should thrive in a matchup role.
12. Brady Martin
C/W, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)
Martin has generated significant praise from scouts following his outstanding performance at the IIHF under-18 tournament, where he recorded 11 points in seven games. He is a relentless workhorse with a non-stop motor, combining physicality with skilled play. Martin is projected as a middle-six forward capable of scoring 20 goals, with upside to become a second-line forward. He is a versatile “Swiss Army Knife” type of player who will likely be most effective on the wing due to his strong wall play. While many top prospects fade if their `A` game is missing, Martin consistently finds ways to contribute physically, and these traits are highly translatable. If his scoring doesn`t fully translate, he will still be a valuable third-line player. This hard-nosed style is increasingly rare in today`s NHL, and Martin`s game is attractive to many scouts who see him as the type of complementary player needed to win in the playoffs.
13. Justin Carbonneau
RW, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)
Carbonneau possesses a set of attributes highly valued by teams, including powerful skating and a dynamic attacking presence. He projects as a top-six forward with considerable variance, most likely settling into a complementary middle-six role. Carbonneau can drive offense through his playmaking and skating abilities, and although he lacks a single elite special talent, he plays a well-rounded offensive game that includes battling through contact, good puck skills, and a decent shot. Carbonneau is a player with notable upside, and his projection inherently carries some risk. He performs best when given time and space; his development will hinge on learning to simplify his offensive attacks, drive more consistently to the middle of the ice, and play effectively off his teammates. He possesses the tools to become an impactful power forward in the NHL after a few years of development.
14. Radim Mrtka
D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
A 6-6, right-handed defenseman with good mobility who is utilized in all situations has generated considerable excitement among scouts. Mrtka is confidently projected as a top-four shutdown defenseman thanks to his excellent stick work, mobility, and transition defense. Mrtka is expected to develop into a strong transition defender, a reliable penalty killer, and a steady presence while shorthanded. While he currently lacks the offensive flair scouts might prefer in a top-pair defenseman, his skating, size, and intelligence provide him with the foundation to become a dependable, high-minute, shutdown defender. His late birthday offers significant runway for development to refine his offensive playmaking, improve his first passes, and enhance his overall understanding of how to best utilize his physical gifts.
15. Logan Hensler
D, Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
The 6-2 defender is projected as a second-pairing defenseman with a relatively high degree of confidence. Hensler is particularly difficult to beat defensively due to his effective movement and strong gap control. He currently lacks a dynamic offensive trait, but he has shown promising flashes when joining the rush. These offensive glimpses, including head fakes and using his mobility to evade opponents, would be crucial to solidifying his profile as a two-way defenseman if they develop consistently. Hensler is considered a longer-term project, likely requiring three years before he is ready to make an impact in the NHL. His success as a high-end prospect will depend on his decision-making under pressure and his ability to execute quality plays consistently. There are many appealing aspects to his game, particularly his mobility and transition defense which are expected to translate well, but he lacks the high-end offensive upside seen in some other defensemen in this draft class.
16. Lynden Lakovic
LW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
The 6-4 left winger possesses translatable scoring ability and excellent speed for his size. He attacks using his large frame to protect the puck and makes plays with good deception. He has the potential to become a dual-threat winger if he can develop his playmaking and decision-making skills. Lakovic projects as a middle-six winger with fair confidence due to his scoring ability, speed, and size. Lakovic`s development will focus on improving his physical play and decision-making. He needs to lean on defenders more effectively and drive towards the middle of the ice to capitalize on his quick hands and shot. Lakovic has quality offensive upside that projects confidently as an NHL player, with the potential to become a 60-point player.
17. Braeden Cootes
C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
A right-handed center, Cootes was a notable performer at the under-18 world championships. He projects as a middle-six player who provides value at both ends of the ice. His floor is likely a third-line checking center, drawing comparisons to Yanni Gourde. Cootes possesses excellent speed that enables him to dictate pace and drive play. He anticipates the game at a high level, allowing him to effectively utilize his speed at even strength and on the penalty kill. Cootes has a longer development path ahead and needs to gain strength to truly establish himself as a quality NHL center. His relentless pursuit of the puck and strong playmaking qualities make him a desirable asset in this year`s draft. There is significant appeal in his overall skill set, and with patient development, he could become a solid second-line contributor.
18. Kashawn Aitcheson
D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
There is a real possibility that Aitcheson could be selected in the top 10 given his style of play, but his projection as a No. 4/5 defender places him below players with higher offensive upside in these rankings. Aitcheson plays with significant grit and aggression, coupled with a confident presence both with and without the puck. He has all the makings of being a relentless force who handles tough assignments and is projected as a No. 4 defender. Scouts view him as a physical, two-way defender with substantial bite who can influence momentum through his physical presence. He requires development time as his skating and playmaking are quite raw, but his competitive attributes and the progress shown this season are very encouraging. Aitcheson`s involvement in offensive plays increased as the season progressed, but he is likely two or three years away from being ready for the NHL. When he does arrive, he is precisely the type of defender every coach and general manager would want on their team.
19. Cameron Schmidt
RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
While size is not the sole determinant, it is exceptionally rare for a player under 5-9 to make it to the NHL. It is anticipated that Schmidt will be drafted lower than 19th overall largely due to his 5-7 stature. However, most other evaluation models place Schmidt as a top-15 talent, with boom-or-bust potential as a second-line winger. He possesses incredible speed and excellent puck-handling skills, making him a dangerous offensive threat. Scoring 40 goals in the WHL is a challenging feat, accomplished by only three players under 19 this season (Schmidt, Gavin McKenna, and Carter Bear). Schmidt has great offensive instincts but needs to become more efficient in his play selection to translate his game to the NHL. He can be somewhat of an agitator and is willing to engage physically, but to reach his ceiling, he must round out his play away from the puck and become more consistently impactful on every shift.
20. Benjamin Kindel
RW, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
Kindel posted excellent statistics in the WHL, accumulating 99 points in 65 games. The right-winger is highly skilled and possesses terrific hockey sense. Kindel projects as a middle-six player, most likely fitting into a third-line winger role. He lacks top-end speed but is agile and difficult to contain due to his elusive style. He needs to refine how he utilizes his skills as they currently lack a truly dynamic element. Adding strength will be crucial for improving puck protection and his ability to drive to the net front to create scoring chances. Defensively, Kindel provides tremendous value. He forechecks and backchecks effectively, blocks passing lanes, and wins his fair share of puck battles. There is significant value in his potential as a checker and penalty killer that will translate to the NHL. He consistently competes for pucks and makes life difficult for opponents with his pace. If his scoring translates, he is likely a 50-point, two-way player. If it doesn`t, a 40-point, two-way checking forward who is also a capable penalty killer would be a valuable complementary piece in the NHL.
21. Cameron Reid
D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
A defenseman with a slighter build, Reid is a fast and agile skater who consistently activates in the offensive rush. Reid possesses upside as a top-four defender if he can further develop his offensive attributes, particularly his playmaking. His skating allows him to create time and space, evade forecheckers, and put defenders in difficult positions. The next step for him is to effectively use the space and passing lanes he generates to facilitate offense more consistently. Defensively, Reid is an excellent rush defender owing to his superb skating ability and good stick work. He guides opposing players to the outside using his stick and employs his skating to disrupt the rush. In the defensive zone, his stick timing is perfect for lifting opponents` sticks upon puck arrival, deflecting shots, and blocking passing lanes. The upside is evident due to his skating, and reaching a top-four level will require patience and development.
22. Cole Reschny
LW, Victoria Royals (WHL)
Reschny may rise further on draft boards by the time the draft occurs, following a strong showing at the under-18 world championships. Few players have ascended as rapidly as Reschny in the latter half of the season, largely thanks to his offensive production in the WHL playoffs. Reschny`s projection has improved from a less confident third-line player estimate to a relatively confident middle-six player projection. While not as flashy as his point totals might suggest, his anticipation and game reads are among the best in the draft class. He isn`t physically large but is effective when he engages physically and understands how to play through contact. His development will focus on adding speed and strength to complement his two-way ability and becoming a versatile “Swiss Army Knife” type of player in the NHL capable of scoring 50 points.
23. Cullen Potter
LW, Arizona State Sun Devils (NCAA)
Potter had a strong freshman season in the NCAA, particularly impressive considering he didn`t turn 18 until halfway through the season. He demonstrated consistent progress, culminating in a standout performance at the under-18 world championships. His speed is already at an NHL level, making him one of the best skaters in the draft class. He understands how to effectively use his skating to pressure opponents, dictate the pace of play, and generate offense. He actively seeks to drive towards the middle of the ice, makes plays at high speed, and recognizes when to momentarily slow down on the rush to allow plays to develop. Potter is a dynamic skater with flashes of dynamic skill. His play away from the puck, both offensively and defensively, saw dramatic improvement this season, transforming him into a play driver. He has boom-or-bust potential, but if he reaches his ceiling, he could become a top-six player. His projection confidence has steadily increased this season, and with two more NCAA seasons, Potter should be one of the top players at the collegiate level by the time he signs his entry-level NHL contract.
24. Malcolm Spence
LW, Erie Otters (OHL)
Spence drops out of the top half of the first round largely because other players have overtaken him in rankings, but his relative lack of dynamism combined with non-elite production has affected his projection. His tireless work ethic, tenacity, and two-way ability provide him with a high floor as a potential NHL regular. His lack of high-end play-driving ability and playmaking limit his upside to a third-line forward role. He is not a flashy player in any sense, but he is highly effective. He is one of the most defensively sound forwards in the draft and understands how to forecheck effectively to force turnovers. His tenacity will translate to the NHL, and his shot is sufficient to be a threat from close range. Coaches highly value this type of player for their third lines in the playoffs, and Spence should develop into a solid complementary piece in the NHL.
25. Ivan Ryabkin
C, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
Ryabkin is a hotly debated prospect whose position on draft boards fluctuates significantly. Opinions range from potential second-line player to potentially not making it to the NHL at all, explaining the variance in his projection models. He is most likely to become a depth NHL player, but there is a reasonable chance he develops into a middle-six physical presence capable of scoring 15 to 20 goals. When he is playing at his best, his upside is clear. He is crafty, able to identify passing lanes and deliver accurate passes to create scoring chances. When Ryabkin uses his skating to drive to the middle of the ice and open up passing lanes, he is a very effective player. His physicality on both sides of the puck should translate into being a good checking-line player, with some creative scoring potential if he can improve his puck protection and battle skills in tight areas.
26. Joshua Ravensbergen
G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)
It is uncommon for a goaltender to be a consensus first-round pick, but Ravensbergen fits that description. Teams are impressed by his 6-5 frame, long limbs, and good flexibility. He is able to cover significant portions of the net, and his ability to track the puck allows him to anticipate plays and aggressively challenge shooters. His lateral movement is explosive while maintaining control, preventing unnecessary over-sliding or excessive activity. He is sharp within his crease, calmly directing pucks and communicating with his defensemen about coverage. Ravensbergen faces challenges with layered screens, a common issue for both young goaltenders and NHLers. However, his elite puck tracking enables him to stay ahead of the play, avoiding erratic movements. This contributes to the calm demeanor that scouts frequently mention, a trait that will serve him well as he aims to become an NHL starter.
27. Blake Fiddler
D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
There is a possibility that Fiddler could be selected higher than 27th, given that he is a right-handed defenseman with NHL pedigree (his father Vernon played 877 NHL games) and possesses an NHL-ready frame at 6-4, 210 pounds. As scouts and executives often say, “Those guys don’t grow on trees,” and Fiddler fits that mold. He is a strong defender, effectively denying opponents time and space and making life difficult in physical battles. He is strongly projected as an NHL player with a chance to become a No. 4 defenseman. Within scouting circles, there is belief he could develop into a second-pairing defender because he has a long development curve ahead and his physical play style should translate well. Fiddler`s decision-making requires improvement, but he is consistently involved and can be taught to be more effective with his reads. His desire to be impactful, combined with his package of plus skating, physical play, and size, makes him attractive to teams. He is a project and will need three to four years of development to simplify his game and become an effective NHL defenseman.
28. Jack Murtagh
C/LW, U.S. National Team Development Program
The 6-1, versatile forward is expected to provide good value towards the end of the first round. Murtagh confidently projects as an NHL player, and scouts appreciate his straightforward, high-motor game. He consistently puts in maximum effort, plays at a high pace, and is physically engaged. His most likely role is a third-line forward, which aligns with his style of being strong on the puck, winning battles, and creating chaos around the net. Heading to Boston University should be beneficial for his overall development, particularly offensively. Murtagh possesses good playmaking ability, though it sometimes lacks creativity or dynamism. He is a hard-skill player, battling his way to scoring chances in high-traffic areas and outworking opponents. This approach won`t always succeed against NHL defenders, meaning developing some creativity and the ability to manipulate defenders will be crucial for translating offense and becoming a well-rounded, two-way forward in the NHL.
29. Sascha Boumedienne
D, Boston University Terriers (NCAA)
Boumedienne played over half of his freshman NCAA season as a 17-year-old, making him the youngest player in NCAA hockey this season. His total of 13 points in 40 games isn`t typical offensive production for a potential first-round selection, but against his age group at the under-18s, Boumedienne set a scoring record for defensemen and was named the tournament`s best blueliner. His skating mechanics have improved, leading to more explosive movements and the potential for more agile maneuvers in transition. He is an offensive force, facilitating scoring chances by manipulating defenders, moving his feet, and creating passing lanes. When he gets the opportunity, his slap shot is powerful and should be a weapon in the NHL. Boumedienne`s defensive transition game will need to improve for him to reach his ceiling as a second-pairing defender. Currently, he can effectively run a power play, execute clean breakout passes, and generate offense. His agility and ability to defend the middle of the ice will need to develop to match his defensive capabilities along the boards. He has a good stick and is most disruptive when he engages physically. Improving his anticipation and reads will be critical for him to reach his full potential.
30. Jack Nesbitt
C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Nesbitt has climbed draft boards in the second half of the season, and for good reason. The 6-4 center brings a physical, defensive presence and is confidently projected to be an NHL player. His offensive upside continues to grow with flashes of one-on-one skill and the speed to drive and create plays in the middle of the ice. While a top-nine projection is less certain, Nesbitt could become a checking center with 40-point potential. His defensive play is exciting to scouts because his scanning, shot-blocking, lane-filling, and ability to track down opponents under pressure and force turnovers are skills that will translate to the NHL. Scouts are confident Nesbitt will be an effective NHL player and agree he will need to show more offensive playmaking ability to provide value at both ends of the rink.
31. William Moore
C, U.S. National Team Development Program
Moore`s placement on draft boards varies widely – from the mid-20s to the third round – because he is seen as a long-term project, precisely the type of player teams selecting late in the first round often target. Moore exhibits characteristics of both a hard-skill and soft-skill player and needs to define which style will dominate his game. He projects as an NHL player with an outside chance of becoming a middle-six player if he can enhance his offensive toolkit. He possesses creativity and the skill to execute plays, manipulating defenders and playing with pace, and is adept at retrieving pucks along the boards. However, consistency is a factor. His competitive level and willingness to engage physically demonstrate potential as a power forward. He has reliable two-way abilities that should translate well and will further develop as he improves his stopping on pucks, defensive physical engagement, and adds strength to improve in puck battles and playing through contact.
32. Bill Zonnon
LW, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
Zonnon is considered a raw prospect that some team selecting late in the first round will be very pleased to acquire. He checks many desirable boxes, including a high-end motor, elite work ethic, and playmaking abilities. The large forward is confidently projected to be an NHL player and has a good chance of becoming a third-liner. Scouts view him as a player with a high floor due to his translatable “intangibles” and a long period available to develop his raw skills. He is already a reliable, 200-foot player, and scouts admire his determined, relentless effort. If his skating improves, he will become a very effective two-way player, relying on his awareness, playmaking, and competitiveness to provide value at both ends of the ice. He is most likely to be a winger, excelling in wall play and battles. He fits the mold of a prototypical hard-skill player that teams utilize on the third line to shut down opponents and rely upon in various situations. He is likely three years away from the NHL and would benefit from time in the NCAA or similar development pathways to improve his skating and offensive abilities.
Honorable mentions (in alphabetical order)
Nathan Behm, LW/RW, Kamloops Blazers (WHL)
Henry Brzustewicz, D, London Knights (OHL)
Milton Gastrin, C/LW, MoDo Hockey (J20 Nationell)
Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, RW, Lulea HF (J20 Nationell)
Jack Ivankovic, G, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
Benjamin Kevan, F, Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL)
Ryker Lee, F, Madison Capitols (USHL)
Cole McKinney, C, U.S. National Team Development Program
Vaclav Nestrasil, RW, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
Shane Vansaghi, RW, Michigan State Spartans (NCAA)
