One of the most important scouting events on the calendar is just around the corner.
The IIHF U-18 World Hockey Championship kicks off in Texas on April 23, with 10 teams fighting it out in front of stands full of NHL scouts. It might never be the most competitive hockey tournament in the world, but it’s the last on-ice opportunity for most of these players to prove themselves ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft.
The tournament was won by Canada last year, with the Americans surrendering a 3-1 lead late in the contest. Canada looks to be a favorite yet again after winning gold at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, the season-opening U-18 hockey tournament.
The United States won’t be as strong as usual, but they will have some help from Blake Fiddler, Cullen Potter and William Horcoff. The latter two previously played for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program but left for college this past season. Fiddler, meanwhile, has represented Canada and the United States in previous international events but will stick with the Americans moving forward.
We won’t see many of the top prospects in this tournament. Canada’s Michael Misa will be the biggest name, followed by Sweden’s Anton Frondell. Many scouts think the overall quality of players at this tournament isn’t as high as usual – the Finns, for example, don’t appear to be too competitive. But this is the type of event you need to watch if you’re a diehard prospect observer.
To get you started, here are Daily Faceoff’s latest 2025 NHL Draft rankings, taking a look at the top 75. Just for fun, you can compare these to the last rankings from right after the World Juniors.
1. Matthew Schaefer, LHD (Erie Otters, OHL)
Schaefer never returned from his injury at the World Juniors, limiting him to just 26 games between the OHL, World Juniors, Hlinka Gretzky and the CHL USA Prospects Challenge. But despite that, scouts still love what they saw from Schaefer and many still consider him the best of the best. He’s so smart, so skilled, and the results at just about every single level have been so promising. Schaefer is hard to beat in 1-on-1 situations, and despite playing close to 30 minutes a night with Erie, he still found ways to have some outstanding underlying analytics. Schaefer is a special talent, and he’s going to be a No. 1 defenseman in the NHL sooner rather than later.
2. Michael Misa, C/LW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)
Misa is coming off one of the most impressive goal-scoring campaigns we’ve ever seen in the OHL. He just knows where to get the puck and can fire at will. I also think Misa’s ability to play both center and wing should take him far, although I expect him to be a winger in the NHL. He continues to find ways to get into scoring positions and impact his team in the best way possible. If I was a coach and needed someone to score a big goal late to win a game, Misa would be my pick – he has the best offensive instincts of any player in this draft. I want to see him battle harder more often (it feels like he cheats up the ice sometimes) but he’s got the pure skill to be a top-line NHLer sooner rather than later.
3. James Hagens, C (Boston College, NCAA)
Hagens was the preseason No. 1 but has fallen partly due to some of the others finding unique ways to stand out. But Hagens has been ignored too much, in a sense. He had a point-per-game freshman season at Boston College while also putting up solid numbers en route to gold at the World Juniors. Add in record-breaking numbers at the U-17 World Challenge and U-18 World Championship and he’s easy to like. Hagens is smart, plays a great two-way game and can thrive with just about anyone. He has all the makings of being a No. 1 center on many NHL teams.
4. Porter Martone, RW (Brampton Steelheads, OHL)
Some love him; others aren’t so sure. I think Martone is going to have a long, successful NHL career. He possesses an excellent combination of skill, size and power, and he’s equally dangerous as a shooter and a passer. He’s not your typical power forward player, and that’s because he can beat guys with pure skill. He fell just short of 100 points in his third OHL campaign, but he was still must-watch entertainment every night for the Steelheads. I like Martone as a future top-six forward who can finish plays and throw the body around.
5. Caleb Desnoyers, C (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL)
Desnoyers is a safe bet to become a two-way, top-six forward. I like his physical play, even though he’s not huge. I think he’s a great playmaker and he’s one of the smarter centers in this draft. Desnoyers might not be the flashiest, but at the very least, but he does so many intelligent things with the puck every night. Desnoyers is a guy you can win with, having done so at various international tournaments already. That ability to stay calm and collected under pressure – and still perform to a high level – matters to NHL teams.
6. Anton Frondell, C/RW (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)
Oh baby. What a season for Frondell. Injuries derailed the early part of the season, but he finished with one of the most productive seasons by a U-18 player in Allsvenskan history – the second-tier Swedish league. Frondell has experience down the middle and on the wing, which makes him intriguing. Frondell has a fantastic shot release and he’s getting even better at attacking pucks, too. Frondell has had to make up for lost time, but he has put himself back on the map as a potential top-five pick.
7. Jackson Smith, LHD (Tri-City Americans, WHL)
Many consider Smith to be the second-best defensive prospect in the draft, and I fully agree. From an overall package standpoint, Smith has so many things going for him. He’s physical, skates so well, and he’s very mobile for a 6-foot-3 defenseman. I also think his hockey sense is great, and it’s only a matter of time until he finds a way to explode offensively. I’ve seen him play in person a handful of times this year, and he almost always was one of my favorite defenders on the ice.
8. Jake O’Brien, C (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)
O’Brien has the skills and the smarts to be a very impressive center in the NHL. His off-puck play is great, and he’s always out-thinking his opponents. O’Brien just fell short of 100 points with 98, but he only continued to get better as the season wore on. He’s never going to blow you away with his pure skill, but his work ethic and ability to be effective in all three zones will allow him to have a solid career. I wouldn’t be surprised to see O’Brien go even higher in the draft.
9. Roger McQueen, C (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL)
McQueen might be the riskiest pick given he played just 20 games between the regular season and the playoffs. But he was productive, physical, and brought so much to the table that very few else possess in this draft. McQueen has a big 6-foot-5 frame and plays with the skill of a 5-foot-11 speedster. He can shoot, pass and intimidate all in one shift. A back injury is a tough one to overcome fully, but his pure talent is undeniable. Few players have the pure upside that McQueen does.
10. Victor Eklund, RW (Djurgardens, Allsvenskan)
Eklund is so, so skilled. He makes things happen with the puck that very few can, and he’s got an excellent shot, to boot. I loved him at the World Juniors because it felt like he was always involved in the puck play. He might not be big at 5-foot-11, but he does have some decent strength. Defensively, he needs work, but it shouldn’t stop him from playing high in the lineup. His skating continues to get better to the point where it might end up being a strength of his in the NHL.
11. Kashawn Aitcheson, LHD (Barrie Colts, OHL)
Aitcheson is one of my favorite prospects in the draft. He has the potential to be an intimidating force in the NHL – someone who just gives opponents nothing to work with. His physicality is the best attribute of his game because he’s willing to get involved with just about anyone. Aitcheson finished the regular season with 26 goals and 59 points while registering 88 penalty minutes – making him a brutal player to deal with every time he hit the ice. Aitcheson isn’t an outstanding skater and his playmaking can be a bit of a mixed bag, but I think the raw talent and the pure tenacity are there for any teams looking to get tougher to play against.
12. Radim Mrtka, RHD (Seattle Thunderbirds)
Mrtka started the year in the top pro league in Czechia. But a move to the WHL before the World Juniors was huge for his development. He’s been a big-time producer with the Thunderbirds and would probably finish with 50 points in a full season. Tack on the fact he’s 6-foot-6, a right-hand shot and quite mobile and there’s a lot to like. I could see Mrtka going in the top 10 because there are so many elements to his game that should make him an effective NHL defenseman.
13. Justin Carbonneau, RW (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada)
Carbonneau’s game has a lot of high-end attributes that should be translatable. Great skater? Check. Excellent shot release? Absolutely. Carbonneau loves to make big, flashy, high-end plays and often comes out on the right side of it. He loves to shoot and could probably use his linemates a bit better, but I think his willingness to do whatever it takes to generate offense will pay off in the NHL.
14. Brady Martin, C (Soo Greyhounds, OHL)
When evaluating Martin, you must watch his play away from the puck to truly appreciate him, because his game transcends the scoresheet. His second half allowed him to finish with more than 70 points, making him the Greyhounds’ most important forward. But, again, it’s what he does when he’s trying to get the puck back that really shines. He hits everyone in sight, constantly battles hard for the puck and is a noted goal-scorer, too. He doesn’t always have top-level players to play with on the Greyhounds, but he does look like one of the best players to come out of the OHL this year because he does so much all over the ice and never gives up on a play.
15. Logan Hensler, RHD (Univ. of Wisconsin, NCA
Hensler was once projected to be a potential top-five pick for 2025, but others started to catch up. Some of it has been out of his hands – a few other defenders have helped make the race a bit more exciting. In other cases, scouts just want to see more. He’s a 6-foot-2, mobile blueliner who has good reach and can rough guys up, and he’s solid in his own zone. You won’t confuse him for a puck-rushing offensive defenseman, though. I think there’s a good chance he becomes a second-pairing defenseman who plays a safe defensive game, but I’d like to see him take more chances with the puck.
16. Carter Bear, C/LW (Everett Silvertips, WHL)
A season-ending injury last month meant we didn’t get to see Bear dominate the WHL playoffs. But he was one of the CHL’s most dangerous forwards this year, registering 40 goals, 82 points and 77 penalty minutes in just 56 games. He’s a difficult player to play against, and his athleticism is top-notch. I still think he goes high in the draft, but it’ll be interesting to see if his late injury impacts his draft status. For me, I’m still hooked – and I know other scouts think he could be a top 10 pick.
17. Lynden Lakovic, LW (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL)
Lakovic is so much fun to watch, and while he’s not putting up explosive offensive numbers, he reads plays so well and has an excellent shot. Things just seem to happen whenever he has the puck on the rush, and at 6-foot-4, he’s got tremendous size. Some scouts think he’s going to be more of a second-liner at best. He drives the play a bit like Dmitri Voronkov, but I’d like to see it more consistently. Some scouts think he’s not a good enough skater to go high in the draft, but I like his NHL potential.
18. Cameron Schmidt, RW (Vancouver Giants, WHL)
Schmidt might be small at 5-foot-8, but he makes up for it in pure skill. He started the season as one of the league’s most productive forwards. His numbers started to quiet down as the season wore on, but he still showed his incredible puck skills and play reads every single night. Schmidt is a pure offensive forward with great speed and likes being in front of the net. On the power play, he’s absolutely lethal. The question is, can he translate his game?
19. Cameron Reid, LHD (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)
Reid closed out the regular season by playing some of his best hockey. He’s started to put up points consistently, and he’s shooting in more dangerous areas, too. Reid isn’t big, but he can shut guys down. Reid can do a little bit of everything – his three-zone game is so good, and he’s got the intelligence to beat so many players in 1-on-1 situations. Some scouts think he’ll go higher here – I see a good value pickup if taken after, say, No. 12.
20. Benjamin Kindel, RW (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)
Kindel has been one of the WHL’s hottest prospects this season, and he’s quickly becoming one of the most popular names in the public scouting sphere. He’s equally good as a shooter and a playmaker and is the driving force of Calgary’s attack. Kindel does a great job of finding open space and exploiting it and he has a shot he can unleash from just about anywhere. Below-average skating and a lack of a physical edge knock him down a few pegs, but many teams should consider him for his pure puck skills and solid all-around improvement.
21. Blake Fiddler, RHD (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)
Standing tall at 6-foot-4, Fiddler is a big-bodied defender who clears forwards away from his net and pushes opponents to the perimeter. Fiddler is averaging around 22 minutes a night this year and already looks good with the puck. He’s mobile, and while he isn’t the quickest defender overall, he moves well for his size. Fiddler isn’t going to be a top-pairing blueliner, but his size and hockey IQ should allow him to have a solid career.
22. Cole Reschny, C (Victoria Royals, WHL)
Reschny has looked excellent in so many of my viewings. I’ve flip-flopped on him a few times, but his ability to produce no matter the situation makes him so intriguing. He’s not huge, but he makes up for it with explosive speed and elusiveness, making him a tough player to contain on the rush. He’s an outstanding playmaker, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he has 80 assists and triple-digit points in 2025-26. Reschny’s competitive nature will take him far, and he has proven internationally he can be an offensive catalyst with other high-end prospects.
23. Ivan Ryabkin, C (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)
Ryabkin is one of the most divisive players in this draft because he started out as a potential top-five pick but looked distant back in Russia and needed a change of scenery. He’s been productive since his move to Muskegon, though, playing at a 40-goal pace in a full season. We’ve also seen him flesh out his physical and playmaking games, with his passing and hockey sense being two of his best traits. A boost of confidence in the USHL seems to have really helped Ryabkin’s stock after falling out of the first round in the eyes of many at the halfway point of the season.
24. Malcolm Spence, LW (Erie Otters, OHL)
I feel confident that Spence will be a good NHLer. Maybe not a top-six player, but someone whom you can assign a job to do and he’ll get it done. The Mississauga native isn’t flashy, but he’s a hard worker who loves hitting everyone he can and getting anyone off their game. Spence isn’t a high-end producer in the OHL, but he has been a point-per-gamer for most of the past two seasons. He’s very versatile, although not necessarily a top-six play-driver. I think he will be one heck of a middle-six player, at the very least. I was disappointed about his play against London in the second round of the playoffs, though – but that’s also partly an Erie Otters problem.
25. Cullen Potter, LW (Arizona State University, NCAA)
Consistency has been a bit of an issue for Potter – but when ASU was good this year, Potter typically was a big reason why. He played around 20 minutes a night, and scouts were impressed with his play-driving abilities. He’s 5-foot-9, but his pure skill and ability to make things happen with the puck should keep him high in the draft conversation. Overall, I like his commitment to playing in all three zones, and he anticipates plays and gets himself where he needs to be better than most of the draft class. I think the ceiling is higher for Potter than many others around this part of the draft, but he needs to show he can handle the physical challenge. Fast-tracking to play at ASU early was an absolute genius move.
26. Joshua Ravensbergen, G (Prince George Cougars)
Most scouts believe Ravensbergen is first-round bound. And there’s no shortage of teams that should use a pick on the highly touted goalie prospect. At 6-foot-5, he has incredible size, great athleticism, and a calm demeanour. Package that together, and he’s an intriguing prospect. His numbers aren’t fantastic by any means, but he snagged wins consistently on a team that would be in a lot more trouble if he didn’t have their back. Look for Ravensbergen to become an NHL starter one day.
27. Jack Murtagh, LW (USNTDP)
Murtagh is a skilled puck handler who can absolutely fire a shot and is a bit of a workhorse, too. I think he’s a good skater and has the hockey sense you’re looking for in a second or third-liner. I’ve been impressed in most of my viewings this year, and he’s one of the primary reasons to watch the USA Hockey National Team Development Program. He’s speedy, works hard and when you put it all together, he’s a difficult player to contain. I think he can become a middle-six forward.
28. Braeden Cootes, C (Seattle Thunderbirds)
Cootes might become more of an energy forward in the NHL, but he’ll be a good one at that. The thing that really stands out here is just how much he wants the puck, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get it. Cootes is also a solid playmaker, often easily finding teammates in open space. I think his value goes far beyond his numbers, which you want from a center. He’s not small at six-foot, but he’s not huge, either. That doesn’t seem to hurt him, though, because he’s not afraid to play with an edge. I’ve really grown on Cootes’ game as the season has developed and I’m excited to see him play a solid role with Canada at the U-18s.
29. William Moore, C (USNTDP)
You’re not going to get flash or pure skill out of Moore, but you’ll find someone who can play a role and get the job done. The two-way forward has good size at 6-foot-2, and he’s not afraid to outmuscle players. He doesn’t get too fancy or anything like that with the puck – instead, he spends a lot of time around the net at both ends of the ice. When Moore is really on his game – when he desperately wants the puck or has a chance to get a second, third, or even fourth look at a chance – he can be so dangerous. I just want to see more consistency – something he has really improved in the latter stages of the season.
30. Jack Nesbitt, C (Windsor Spitfires, OHL)
The Spitfires have a strong case to go the distance this year, which is great for people who want to see more of Nesbitt. He’s been playing some great hockey recently, aggressive but effective. He’s also shooting a lot, too, averaging five shots a game over his past five outings. He’s often been one of Windsor’s better shot generators, and while he isn’t putting up Liam Greentree numbers, he’s still going to finish at close to a point per game. He’s a big, 6-foot-4 center – teams typically like that. I wish he had more top speed, but I think Nesbitt has a solid ceiling.
31. Bill Zonnon, LW (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL)
I like Zonnon. He’s very energetic, a tremendous playmaker and is looking more comfortable as a shooter, too. He’s physical, smart and is an excellent passer who can do some dangerous things with the puck. When he has the puck, he makes things happen in open space. Without it, he creates space for his teammates and he gets himself to the net. It feels like Zonnon has been underappreciated and that he deserves more attention for his work ethic and tremendous vision. He’s the type of player you can stick with other high-end talents and find success. I can see him going 10 spots higher in this draft if a team thinks they can mold him into something they need.
32. Milton Gastrin, C (Modo, Sweden U-20)
Gastrin has been excellent in Swedish national team action, developing into quite a responsible two-way player. Gastrin will not be a point producer in the NHL, but he will do so many other things that excite you. He’s defensively responsible, wins a ton of face-offs and can play the wing when you need him to. We’ve seen him play with some of Sweden’s better players in international junior tournaments, and he has never looked out of place.
33. Cole McKinney, C (USNTDP)
McKinney has been the USNTDP’s top scorer throughout most of the season – and he’s also one of the most aggressive. McKinney is a mid-sized, two-way center who can play on the penalty kill, block shots and win a ton of faceoffs. He’s not going to be a play driver in the NHL, but he’s detail-oriented and astute. McKinney is also not afraid to land a big hit to channel some energy. I hope he gets stronger when he heads to college, but the overall package right now is a solid base to build around.
34. Eric Nilsson, C (Djurgardens, Sweden U-20)
Nilsson has hung around the 30-35 range for most of the year for me. I don’t think he has high-end skill and he’s definitely not a play-driver. But he’s a great passer who can also wire home shots, too. He’s been productive in the Swedish U-20 league and has some pro experience with Djurgardens’ Allsvenskan team. I can see Nilson becoming an effective bottom-six forward because he’s so committed to winning every battle while still maintaining his position in his own zone.
35. Haoxi ‘Simon’ Wang, LHD (Oshawa Generals, OHL)
The Boston University commit was dominant against OJHL competition with the King Rebellion, but he needed a bit more time to adjust to OHL action in Oshawa. But the one thing scouts can all agree on: there’s high upside here. He only started to play at a high level competitively a few years ago, and he’s learning how to use his 6-foot-6 frame to his advantage. The Beijing, China native can skate well and has good offensive instincts. Moving forward, reading plays on the rush will be something he needs to work on, but the raw talent is there.
36. Shane Vansaghi, RW (Michigan State Univ., NCAA)
Vansaghi has exactly what you’re looking for from a bottom-six forward: he hits hard, brings energy, and never gives up on a play. We’ve seen him bounce all throughout the MSU lineup this year, and he has always found ways to produce. I think Vansaghi will be an attractive option for an NHL team looking to get tougher to play against deeper in the lineup – he has plenty of pro traits already.
37. Ryker Lee, RW (Madison Capitols, USHL)
Lee has been one of the best players in the USHL this season, using his quick hands and excellent hockey IQ in the offensive zone to win so many battles. He’s not big and can be pushed around a bit too much at times, but he doesn’t let it get to him and is quite competitive. I hope to see him become quicker once he heads to college – if he could just use his footwork to win more puck races, he’d be even more effective.
38. Nathan Behm, C/RW (Kamloops Blazers, WHL)
Behm had a breakout season with the Blazers, which saw him finish with more than 30 goals and more than 60 points. He has always been a decent goal-scorer at every level, but he has found a way to put more muscle behind his shot while being better defensively, too. His skating is still a work in progress – he’s not particularly quick and can be beaten by mid-range skaters. But his play with the puck has been incredible this year and I think there’s some serious potential as a secondary scorer.
39. Kurban Limatov, LHD (Dynamo Moscow, KHL)
There’s a lot to like about Limatov’s complete package. The 6-foot-3 defender is mobile, hits as hard as anyone and is a great puck distributor. He’s one of the best skaters playing in Europe right now, using his mobility to beat players at speed and get himself out of danger. Limatov can put anyone on their rear end, and if you get him first, he’ll get you back with a hard shot. I think he needs to be smarter at distributing the puck under pressure, but the raw talent is there.
40. Jack Ivankovic, G (Brampton Steelheads, OHL)
I was really high on Dustin Wolf in 2019 – I thought he was a second-round talent. He (six-foot) is slightly bigger than Ivankovic (5-foot-11), but I feel exactly the same about the Steelheads keeper that I did about Wolf. If it wasn’t for Ivankovic’s small frame, we’d be talking about a potential top 20 pick this year. Ivankovic played his way onto Canada’s World Junior team and looked good in his one start. The athletic keeper does an excellent job of tracking shots and is as competitive as they get in the crease. His save percentage wasn’t great in the OHL, but he’s been left hung out to dry a bit too often this year. More often than not, he’s finding a way to steal a game or two for the Steelheads. But if he doesn’t grow… it’s just going to be a tough hill for him to climb.
41. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, RW (Lulea, Sweden U-20)
Ihs-Wozniak struggled out of the gate this year, with the Australian-born Swedish forward having a quiet round robin. Since then, he has spent the past few months pummeling goalies in the Swedish U-20 league and scoring at a high rate with the U-18 national team. He’s streaky, but the goal-scoring instincts are definitely there. He just needs to figure out how to be more consistent if he’s going to excel at the next level.
42. Luca Romano, C (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)
Romano has hovered around this spot for me for a while. He’s a good skater, puts a lot of mustard behind his shot and can hold his own physically despite being a mid-sized center. What makes him intriguing is just how energetic he is and how he chases everyone around the whole game. I think he’ll be a decent bottom-six forward, and some added muscle will help. I was hoping for better numbers this year, but Romano established himself as a legit OHL goal-scorer.
43. Pyotr Andreyanov, G (Krasnaya Armiya Moskva, MHL)
Andreyanov, the top-rated international-based goaltending prospect, has been truly dominant in the Russian junior league. His save percentage has been above .940 for most of the season, and while his team does score a lot, he seems to thrive when he faces more action. His glove hand is quick, he’s reactive when he needs to be, and he doesn’t get frazzled when he lets a goal in.
44. Sascha Boumedienne, LHD (Boston Univ., NCAA)
Boumedienne made noise after an explosive start to his junior career with the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms last year. Some of that died down during the Hlinka Gretzky and he ultimately fell out of first-round contention. Still, it’s hard to ignore the potential. He’s strong, skates well and has real skill with the puck. He often played between 18-20 minutes a night and got better as the season wore on. The highs are high, the lows are low – he’s a real high-risk, high-reward defender. His father, former Columbus Blue Jackets assistant coach Josef Boumedienne, is currently the GM of the Swedish men’s national team.
45. Václav Nestrašil, RW (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)
Nestrašil is set to head to UMass a year early in 2025-26. He’s been solid in the USHL, but you have to dig beyond the scoresheet to see just how dangerous he can be. The Czech forward is 6-foot-5, skates well and is exceptionally skilled with the puck. He’s tall, but he’s not physically strong. Once he adds some muscle to his game, he could become quite the power forward. At this point, there’s enough to like about him to consider him a second-rounder.
46. Kristian Epperson, LW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)
Epperson is the top re-entry prospect in this draft. The 18-year-old was passed over after falling out of favor with the USNTDP U-18 team and was ultimately loaned to the U-17 team to finish his two-year tenure there. He shifted gears to Saginaw, where he became an 80-point scorer in the team’s top six. He’s a great distributor who plays a smart off-puck game.
47. Alexander Zharovsky, RW (Ufa, MHL)
Zharovsky has been another big riser this year, and for good reason. He put up excellent numbers in the MHL while being so dangerous on the rush. He definitely needs to add more muscle, but if he can even add 15 pounds, he’d be significantly tougher to steal the puck off of. He’s crafty, smart and dangerous in open space – he’s easily one of the top players to watch in Russia.
48. Henry Brzustewicz, RHD (London Knights, OHL)
Standing at 6-foot-1, Brzustewicz is an all-around defender who can rush the puck up the ice and is always looking to take space away. Brzustewicz does a good job of driving play to the outside in his own zone and has good instincts at the other end of the ice. He’s prone to making some mistakes with the puck, and I’d like to see more offense. But from an overall standpoint, there’s a good base to work with.
49. Adam Benák, C (Youngstown Phantoms)
Benák is one of the biggest high-risk, high-reward players in this draft – and it mostly comes down to his petite frame. The 5-foot-7 forward has the most points in Hlinka Gretzky Cup history and has generally been downright dominant at the junior national team level. And after a slow start in the USHL, Benák bounced back by putting up more than a point per game in the USHL while being more physically engaged, too. I want nothing more than to see Benák make it to the NHL and show just how good he can be in open space – but how worried will teams be about his frame?
50. Charlie Trethewey, RHD (USNTDP)
Trethewey is a solid, two-way defenseman who, at times, has shown some serious flash. At one point last year, he led the U-17 USNTDP in scoring. This year, he’s been a bit more reserved, both in the USHL and against college players. But there’s still a lot to like about the way he moves the puck and gets it into scoring lanes. He’s one of the youngest players in the draft, is a right-handed shot, and he’s smart, too. Trethewey is prone to trying to do too much and can make mistakes, but he’s still a reasonable project prospect.
51. Ethan Czata, C (Niagara IceDogs, OHL)
Czata has continued to rise up draft rankings for his strong play with Niagara. He started the year with a disappointing showing at the Hlinka Gretzky, but he showed he could be equally dangerous as a shooter and a passer in the OHL. He’s a good two-way forward who can play many different situations, but I think he’ll be used more in a bottom-six role.
52. Alex Huang, RHD (Chicoutimi Saguenéens, QMJHL)
Some scouts love him – others aren’t totally convinced. But Huang is a productive blueliner who’s tracking to finish with 40 points while being one of Chicoutimi’s more creative puck movers. He’s not big or strong, but he moves well, activates on the rush and is effective in all three zones. At the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, it looked like Huang was a bit more reliant on Matthew Schaefer to make things happen. But on his own in the Q, it looks like Huang is a lot more confident in himself, and the results this year were solid.
53. Conrad Fondrk, C/LW (USNTDP)
When he’s hot, Fondrk can be a difference-maker. The first half was a bit ugly, but I liked him at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge, and I think he’s better than his stats might suggest. That’s because he’s a solid 200-foot player who brings speed and a great shot to the table every night. I feel like he’s more competitive than when we saw him a year ago where it seemed like he just stapled himself to high-end shooting areas and didn’t grind it out like many would have hoped.
54. Viktor Klingsell, LW (Skelleftea, Sweden U-20)
Klingsell is all about speed. He’s only 5-foot-9 (and a bit on the heavier side for that size) but he moves well and makes high-quality plays on the rush. He put up some good numbers in the Swedish U-20 league but it feels like he passed the puck more than he needed to. Overall, there’s something there, but tams need to get past his size.
55. Vojtěch Čihař, LW (HC Energie Karlovy Vary, Czechia)
Čihař seems to find teammates with high-danger chances often. He’s quick, crafty and took very little time to adjust to playing against men in the top Czech league this year. I like how hard he works along the boards, although I wish he committed himself in the same way defensively. Still, we’ve seen enough from him, both internationally and domestically, to be excited about his overall package – Čihař is always moving and looking to impact every shift.
56. Alexei Medvedev, G (London Knights, OHL)
Like any goalie who grows, Medvedev needed time to adjust to his larger frame. He was drafted to the OHL in 2023 as a 5-foot-11 keeper but stands at 6-foot-2 now. The rookie OHLer was a huge part of London’s regular season success, putting up some excellent numbers alongside CHL veteran Austin Elliot. Medvedev is a quick goalie who has a bit of an unorthodox hunch-back style, but his pure athleticism wins out more often than not. There just aren’t many flaws in how he commands the crease – scouts love him.
57. Carter Amico, RHD (USNTDP)
Amico suffered a season-ending injury before the CHL USA Prospects Challenge, which definitely hurt. He’s a big 6-foot-5 right-handed defender who makes it his mission to stop you from beating him in 1-on-1 situations. He’s strong, smart and a decent skater, too. His on-puck game is still a work in progress, so the lost time won’t help. But teams love massive blueliners who can handle the right side – don’t be surprised if he gets taken early in the second.
58. Peyton Kettles, RHD (Swift Current Broncos, WHL)
Kettles didn’t put up many points in Swift Current, but he wasn’t afraid to absolutely blast someone. The 6-foot-5 defender takes up a ton of space, defends well and is decently mobile for his size. He can kill penalties, and I actually think he’s better offensively than his 14 points suggest. Kettles also plays a ton of minutes, which is never a bad isng.
59. Benjamin Kevan, RW (Des Moines Buccaneers, USHL)
There’s no one particular trait that stands out about Kevan’s game. Instead, it’s his work ethic, speed and play away from the puck, combined, that make him interesting. Scouts seem a bit worried about his overall hockey sense and whether he’s got enough high-end talent to be more than a depth scorer in the NHL. I still like where his game is at right now, though.
60. Matthew Gard, C (Red Deer Rebels, WHL)
Gard looked good for the Rebels this year, serving as a toolsy, 200-foot center. He has a good 6-foot-4 frame and can make some highlight-reel plays. His true value comes in just how hard he battles in his own zone, rarely allowing opponents to get the better of him. Gard won’t be a top-six forward in the NHL, but he has good size and is an effective support player deeper down.
61. Reese Hamilton, LHD (Regina Pats, WHL)
What Hamilton lacks in pure toughness, he makes up for it in his skating. He’s quick, agile and outworks opponents quite often. He didn’t light the WHL on fire after an impressive rookie season and ultimately saw his value trickle down all season long. But he’s good in his own zone and is competitive enough for my liking. It feels like he’s got more natural ability than he showed every single night – almost like he played nervously. I’m interested in seeing his Draft+1 development.
62. Will Horcoff, LW (Univ. of Michigan, NCAA)
You might know about William’s dad – former NHLer Shawn Horcoff. The elder Horcoff was a gritty playmaker during his peak days with the Edmonton Oilers, but Will loves to put players through the glass whenever possible. He hasn’t put up a ton of points this year, but he’s good in his own zone. Horcoff only joined Michigan in January, but he made a big first impression with a two-point effort in the outdoor game against Ohio. He put up some solid numbers with Michigan and I can’t wait to see how he closes the season with the USA U-18 team.
63. Tomas Pobezal, C (HK Nitra, Slovakia)
Pobezal has been a leading fixture for Slovakia in this age group for a while, and it was nice to see him at the World Juniors. He’s smart, speedy and makes good decisions with the puck. He seemed to be one of Slovakia’s most consistent players from the get-go at the U-18s last year and he always brought the energy. I could see Pobezal becoming a bottom-six forward who is defensively responsible but also skilled enough to make things happen with the puck.
64. Luka Radivojevic, RHD (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)
Radivojevic plays a strong, two-way game. He has spent many years playing against older competition, especially on the international level. He put up good numbers with Muskegon and was a key piece of Slovakia’s blueline at the World Juniors. His 5-foot-10 frame will definitely hold him back unless he can get stronger and quicker at Boston College.
65. L.J. Mooney, C (USNTDP)
Mooney has first-round talent – he’s one of the most energetic, skilled wingers you’ll find in this draft class. But at 5-foot-6, there’s an obvious concern about his size. At the very least, he’s so much fun to watch. An injury early in the season limited his output, but he was arguably USA’s most important playmaker at the U-18 level. The Univ. of Minnesota commit was the most productive USNTDP U-18 player in USHL play, too.
66. Owen Conrad, LHD (Charlottetown Islanders, QMJHL)
Conrad is an athletic, strong defenseman who can move the puck and take space away. Conrad’s offense might not be a shining element of his game, but he’s playing with more aggressiveness than we’ve seen from him at other levels – and he’s dang good in his own zone. At the very least, Conrad will earn love for just how rugged he is. QMJHL attackers don’t seem to like to play against him.
67. Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen, RHD (Univ. of Michigan, NCAA)
The defensive defender is an excellent skater and is almost always one of Michigan’s best players in his own zone. He’s best when defending against skilled players trying to make quick, skilled moves because he never seems to fall for flash and pizzazz. His game with the puck isn’t great, though, which has hurt his stock a bit this year.
68. Carlos Händel, RHD (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)
After shining at the World Juniors for Germany, I was intrigued to see what Händel could do the rest of the year. He was Germany’s best defenseman despite being just 17. While his role wasn’t as vital in Halifax, I still liked what I saw. He’s not afraid to get engaged on the rush and is capable of leading a power play, too. Händel produced at half a point per game with Halifax, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him double that output a year from now. He’s a good project guy to keep track of.
69. William Belle, RW (USNTDP)
Belle is a force of nature. He’s a 6-foot-4, 218-pound monster who can take down just about anyone who gets in his way and will then proceed to make life miserable for you in front of the net. I like his shot, too. Teams looking for someone to push guys around while being competent with and without the puck will be attracted to Belle’s skillset.
70. Max Pšenička, RHD (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)
A move to Portland later in the season really helped Pšenička earn the ice time he needed to showcase his true talent. He wasn’t part of the Czech Hlinka Gretzky Cup team but will have a chance to play a leading role at the U-18s. He’s got a big 6-foot-4 frame, competes hard and is mobile, too. Defensively, he’s above average. Offensively, I’m not sure there’s enough there – yet.
71. Mace’o Phillips, LHD (USNTDP)
Phillips is a massive, 6-foot-5, 214-pound defender who uses every bit of his frame to push guys around and poke pucks away. He’s strong and always seems to be looking to land at least one big hit a game. He skates well, too. His mobility and frame will make him a solid option for teams chasing size and decent mobility.
72. Shamar Moses, RW (North Bay Battalion, OHL)
Moses was one of my favorite players from the 2023 OHL Draft because his work ethic was outstanding. He had a modest 48 points in 66 OHL games this year, but he played hard, worked hard and hit even harder. The North Bay Battalion forward is exactly the type of player you want causing havoc in your bottom six – he doesn’t want you anywhere near the puck. Moses might not have much high-end potential, but there are some obvious pro traits in his game.
73. Semyon Frolov, G (MHK Spartak Moskva, MHL)
Frolov has bounced around to three different teams this year, but there’s one constant element in his game: he’s been good everywhere. The 6-foot-3 keeper has ideal size, he’s athletic and tracks shots well, allowing him to come out on top in 2-on-0 situations quite often. It’s still early, but some scouts think he could be a second or-third-rounder come June because he has all the makings of a solid, smart, calm goaltender. He doesn’t lack athleticism, either.
74. Eddie Genborg, RW (Linkoping, SHL)
He wants to hit everyone in sight – period. I don’t see much high-end offensive potential but he’s hard to play against, at the very least. He does a lot away from the puck, which is something I value quite a lot. Genborg is absolutely relentless, plays a reliable two-way game and didn’t look out of place in the SHL. I have full belief he’ll become an NHLer one day in a bottom-line role because he can be a menace without getting himself in too much trouble.
75. Bruno Osmanis, RW (Bjorkloven, Sweden U-20)
Osmanis used a great showing at the World Juniors to rise up draft boards. The speedy winger boasts a ton of skill, and he looked good against pro competition in the second-tier Swedish league. Against U-20 competition, Osmanis is lethal. The hard-working, relentless forward likes to have the puck on his stick and is physically strong despite not being that big.
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