2025 NHL Draft Rankings: Top 80 with one month to go

May 27, 2025, 08:51 EDT

2025 NHL Draft Rankings: Top 80 with one month to go

Credit: Steven Ellis/Daily Faceoff

We’re finally, actually, for realsies in the stretch run.

European leagues are done for the year, the CHL playoffs are over, college players are focusing on sharpening up their brains and the USHL is done, too. The only real hockey left to be played is the Memorial Cup, happening now in Rimouski, Quebec.

Today, we’re kicking off a month of daily 2025 NHL Draft coverage with an updated draft rankings. The final set will be released a week before the draft takes place on June 27 in Los Angeles. Between now and then, you’ll see lists based on positions, profiles on notable names, mock drafts, and so much more.

It’s an exciting time for fans hoping for their teams to hit big this summer. So let’s get started with Daily Faceoff’s updated top 80 list:

1. Matthew Schaefer, LHD (Erie Otters, OHL)

Schaefer never returned from his injury at the World Juniors, so he only played 26 games total this year. Despite that, many scouts think he’s the best player around. 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)

If you want a reason to watch the Memorial Cup, let Desnoyers be the one who makes it happen. 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 and in the 2025 QMJHL final. 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)

Frondell had quite the campaign. He finished with one of the most productive seasons by a U-18 player in Allsvenskan history – the second-tier Swedish league – despite missing time with injuries. 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. I wish he’d dominate shifts more consistently, but he’s still one of the best players every time he hits the ice.

7. Brady Martin, C (Soo Greyhounds, OHL)

There has been a ton of discourse recently as to whether Martin is a top-10 pick. Here’s what I’ll say: this is a guy you win with. He’s built for the playoffs like Brad Marchand, so undervalue him at your own peril. Martin played at more than a point per game in the OHL, doing a lot of heavy lifting for the Soo. He was also one of the best players at both the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and the U-18 World Championship. Away from the puck, 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. Martin is a center, but I think he’ll be better suited on the wing in the NHL.

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. 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 and I’m excited to see what an NHL coaching staff can get out of him there.

10. Jackson Smith, LHD (Tri-City Americans, WHL)

Many consider Smith to be the second-best defensive prospect in the draft. 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 do think he can be a bit of a liability in his own zone at times – the U-18s saw him playing a bit nervously at times. But there’s plenty of room to progress and he looks destined to be a top-four blueliner.

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. Roger McQueen, C (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL)

McQueen might be the riskiest pick given that 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.

13. 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.

14. Carter Bear, C/LW (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

A season-ending injury before the playoffs was a big bummer. 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.

15. 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 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. Carbonneau needs to work on his shot selection and location, but there’s a ton of potential here for him to become a similar player to Brock Boeser.

16. Cole Reschny, C (Victoria Royals, WHL)

Reschny is coming off an outstanding showing at the U-18 World Championship. He didn’t start the tournament on time, but he was a big reason why Canada won gold. Reschny’s 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, maybe one of the best in this class. Reschny’s competitive nature will take him far, and he has proven internationally he can be an offensive catalyst with other high-end prospects.

17. Logan Hensler, RHD (Univ. of Wisconsin, NCAA)

Hensler was once projected to be a potential top-five pick for 2025, but others started to catch up. Still, there’s a lot to like. He’s a 6-foot-2, mobile blueliner who has good reach and can rough guys up. He’s even better 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.

18. Cullen Potter, LW (Arizona State University, NCAA)

Potter made the big decision to go to college early, and it paid off. He played around 20 minutes a night at ASU, 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 for his development and helped him push up draft boards.

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. I’m not sure the ceiling is that high for Reid, but if you’re looking for someone with the brains and the mobile ability to challenge for a top-four spot one day, he’s your guy.

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. 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 could see some teams taking a chance on him even earlier.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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 see the potential.

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. Sascha Boumedienne, LHD (Boston Univ., NCAA)

Boumedienne was the biggest mover on this list, and it’s not just because he had a dominant U-18s. He turned heads in the second round as a whole, with the NCAA tournament showcasing some of his best hockey to date. 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, but I’d feel confident throwing a first-round pick at him, especially for a team with another pick already.

29. 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.

30. 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.

31. 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. Nesbitt was often 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.

32. 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.

33. 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. I’m not sold that he’ll be able to translate his game to the NHL, but I like the potential.

34. 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.

35. 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.

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. 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.

38. 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.

39. 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.

40. Jakob Ihs-Wozniak, RW (Lulea, Sweden U-20)

Ihs-Wozniak struggled out of the gate this year, but he ended the season as one of Sweden’s top young players. He closed with a great showing at the U-18s, which scouts were thrilled to see after a quiet Hlinka Gretzky Cup. That helped him get back into the first-round conversation like many expected. Ihs Wozniak is 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.

41. 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.

42. 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 as 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.

43. 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. You just might need some patience.

44. 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?

45. 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.

46. 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.

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. 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.

49. Will Horcoff, LW (Univ. of Michigan, NCAA)

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 thought he looked good at the U-18s, even if he wasn’t in a shining role.

50. Michael Pradel, G (Tri-City Storm, USHL)

Pradel was one of the best goaltenders from start to finish at the U-18s, and a big reason why the Slovaks played for a medal for the third straight year. The 6-foot-5 goaltender takes up a ton of the net, and he’s also so quick and agile, too. He was applauded for his ability to steal games in the USHL and he carried that over to this tournament, too. Pradel battles hard, sees cross-crease passes well and doesn’t let a bad goal bother him. Pradel will be one of the first goaltenders taken this summer because his mix of size and mobility makes him a great player to have in the system.

51. 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.

52. Viktor Klingsell, LW (Skelleftea, Sweden U-20)

Klingsell is an interesting one. On one hand, you can see the obvious skill. He’s only 5-foot-10 (and a bit on the heavier side for that size) but he makes high-quality plays on the rush and can actually land some decent hits. 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. He can be fast at points but there’s still work to be done to become at least an average skater. Overall, there’s something there, but teams need to get past his size and are willing to work with his feet.

53. 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.

54. 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.

55. Mason West, C, (Edina, MNHS)

West has received a lot of praise in the scouting community recently. He’s a 6-foot-6 center who loves to overpower defenders and beat opponents with skill. He spent most of the year playing high school hockey but then finished the season with some excellent performances with the USHL’s Fargo Force. Every time I watch him, he finds a way to get better. The upside is tremendous, and he doesn’t struggle with traits that some other big forwards can, including slower hands and feet. A team looking to swing big could take West much higher in the second round.

56. Ethan Czata, C (Niagara IceDogs, OHL)

Czata 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. He put up good numbers this year, but I’d like to see him add more finesse and deception into his game next season. I do think Czata will be an NHLer one day, though.

57. 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.

58. 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.

59. 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.

60. 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 thing.

61. 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 has 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. But there’s enough of a base to believe he could become something similar to Blake Fiddler.

62. 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.

63. 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-7, 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. Nobody will ever question his skill, but is he simply too small?

64. 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.

65. Carlos Händel, RHD (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

After shining at the World Juniors for Germany, I loved him at the U-18 World Championship. In fact, I’d argue he was Germany’s best defender at every international tournament he skated in this year, no matter the situation. 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.

66. Theo Stockselius, RW (Djurgardens, Sweden U-20)

Stockselius played some of his most effective hockey to close out the year at the U-18s. Primarily in a bottom-six role, Stockselius used his 6-foot-3 frame to win battles, and it paid off on the scoresheet. I like his own-zone awareness and his commitment to shutting guys down whenever he could. Stockselius has earned some love as a potential second-rounder in the draft, and I think it’s because he’s blooming with upside.

67. Michal Svrcek, C/LW (Brynas IF, SHL)

Svrcek was one of the biggest risers in the draft this year. The 5-foot-10 forward is a bit undersized, but he makes up for it with his speed and vision. He’s also a transitional monster, allowing himself to be effective in all three zones. Svrcek has experience on the penalty kill, often forcing opponents to make quicker plays than they were planning on. I’m not as high on Svrcek as others as I don’t think the ceiling is high, but I absolutely think there’s something here.

68. Carter Amico, RHD (USNTDP)

Amico suffered a season-ending injury before the CHL USA Prospects Challenge in November, which unfortunately hurt his draft stock. 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.

69. 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.

70. 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.

71. 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.

72. 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.

73. Filip Ekberg, RW (Ottawa 67’s, OHL)

My biggest complaint about Ekberg’s season was how underutilized he was by Ottawa 67’s coach Dave Cameron. Ekberg then seemed to be launched out of a cannon at the U-18s, scoring four goals and five points. He was easily one of the best players on the ice on any given night and absolutely deserved the MVP title. I think he’s one of the more pure-skilled forwards in this draft class, and that he just needed the right opportunity to prove that. I hope he continues that next year.

74. 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. He’s just a bit too hot-and-cold for me right now.

75. 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, making him a solid option for teams chasing size and decent mobility. Guys like this can make for solid third-pairing options down the line.

76. Bruno Osmanis, RW (Bjorkloven, Sweden U-20)

Osmanis rose up draft boards after a great showing at the World Juniors. The speedy winger boasts a ton of skill and 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. I like Osmanis as a potential third-line energy forward who can help work alongside some more skilled linemates.

77. 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. The ceiling isn’t high here, but he plays strong enough defensively to give him a chance on the third pairing.

78. 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 he 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.

79. Daniil Prokhorov, RW (Dynamo St. Petersburg, MHL)

There seem to be split opinions on Prokhorov. For starters, his stat line in the Russian junior league looks hilarious – 20 goals, but just 27 points in 43 games. But you’re not drafting him to be an all-around threat. Instead, you’re looking at his 6-foot-5 frame, his absolute bullet release and his brute strength. Is he a risk? Maybe. He’s not skilled enough, but he has good enough speed to be a project NHLer. His game can be basic at times, but his pure muscle mass makes him interesting around here.

80. 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.

Other notables: Quinn Beauchesne, LHD (Guelph Storm, OHL); Lucas Beckman, G (Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL); Lasse Boelius, LHD (Assat, Finland U-20); Jan Chovan, C (Tappara, Finland U-20); Mateo Nobert, C (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)

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