Top 75 NHL-affiliated skater prospects in 2024-25
Remember how good the NHL’s top 75 prospect crop was a year ago?
Connor Bedard, Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, Logan Cooley, Luke Hughes, Zach Benson, Simon Nemec, Pavel Mintyukov, Brock Faber, Matthew Knies and Dylan Guenther were among the top young guns who established themselves as full-time NHLers. While Bedard was the clear favorite to win the Calder Trophy from the get-go (even though Faber put up an excellent fight), it was still one of the deeper rookie crops in recent memory.
There isn’t a Bedard-like player this year, but there’s some fanastic prospects looking to make names for themselves this year. We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again – it’s truly a fun time to follow NHL prospects.
Falling in the rankings doesn’t neccesarily mean a player fell as a prospect. It just means with every influx of new talent, the pool gets even deeper, and sometimes, there are just players who stand out more. This is a really competitive top 75, with some players on the low end including one of the best major junior point producers in recent memory (Jordan Dumais); a major NCAA award winner (Gavin Brindley); someone Bedard considered to be one of the most skilled players outside of the NHL (Andrew Cristall); an AHL MVP (Mavrik Bourque); and it goes much deeper than that.
Throughout the summer, we looked at the top 10 prospects for all 32 NHL teams. We also ranked each team’s pipeline from 1-32, with the San Jose Sharks leading the way. Today, the Sharks will once again have good representation at the peak as we look at the top 75 NHL-drafted prospects in the game today:
1. Macklin Celebrini, C, 18 (San Jose Sharks)
2023-24 rank: New
All eyes will be on Celebrini this season. He elected to turn pro just days after going first overall to the Sharks. He won the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in the NCAA last year, becoming the first 17-year-old to do so. It was truly a remarkable season and showed that, despite him being the youngest player in the league, no challenge was too difficult. First-overall picks always get significant attention and sometimes even get overhyped. With Celebrini, you can see all the translatable skills, plus how well he handled playing against older competition at only 17. Look for Celebrini to spend most of the season on the top line and on the power play, but don’t be discouraged if he has fewer points than Will Smith. A big part of Celebrini’s game is his play away from the puck, and that’s going to make him so valuable.
2. Matvei Michkov, RW, 19 (Philadelphia Flyers)
2023-24 rank: 3rd (+1)
Flyers fans are absolutely thrilled they got Michkov earlier than expected – especially since his later arrival was such a hot topic before the 2023 NHL Draft. And it comes at a time when the Flyers need something to celebrate – it’s been a trying few years, to say the least, especially after everything collapsed the way it did last season. Michkov had 19 goals and 41 points in 47 KHL games last season, marking one of the most impressive Draft+1 seasons ever recorded in a league that has never really prioritized ice time for young players. Many have Michkov as the top candidate to win the Calder, and it’s understandable. From both a performance and marketing standpoint, playing the heck out of Michkov feels like the right move, and it’s going to be exciting to see how his creativity translates to the NHL. He’s not your typical 19-year-old, given he already has two seasons of pro hockey experience under his belt (in a leading role for his team, too), and I expect him to put himself in the 50-point bracket.
3. Ivan Demidov, RW, 18 (Montreal Canadiens)
2023-24 rank: New
Demidov was the most skilled player in this past draft and was Daily Faceoff’s No. 2 prospect behind Macklin Celebrini. The Russian winger finished the MHL regular season second in league scoring despite missing 24 games due to injury. At a 2.00 point-per-game average, no U-19 player has ever had a more productive season in MHL history, including Nikita Kucherov back in 2011-12. Demidov then dominated in the playoffs before getting injured, but it was a highly successful season. From a pure talent perspective, we’re seeing one of the most creative, speedy, and offensively dominant forwards in quite some time. And while the KHL season is still in its infancy, I’ve liked what I’ve seen from him.
4. Will Smith, C, 19 (San Jose Sharks)
2023-24 rank: 7th (+3)
Smith was San Jose’s first pick in 2023, giving the team a much-needed high-end center with top-line potential. He slapped the NCAA with 71 points in 41 games, winning a handful of awards between Hockey East and the NCAA as a whole. Two years ago, he posted one of the most productive seasons in USA Hockey National Team Development Program history with 51 goals and 127 points, capping things off with MVP honors and a gold medal at the U-18 World Championship. Add in gold at the World Juniors and a five-game stretch at the recent men’s World Championship, and it’s been a wild few years for the Lexington, Massachusetts native. Next up? The big show, and in a big way.
5. Alexander Nikishin, LHD, 22 (Carolina Hurricanes)
2023-24 rank: 32nd (+27)
Will we finally see Nikishin in a Hurricanes uniform next spring? The 22-year-old is one of the best players outside the NHL, having led KHL defensemen in scoring in consecutive years. When the 2022 Olympic silver medalist was drafted 69th overall, a lot of the talk was about how disengaged he often looked with the puck and that he struggled to adapt to a quicker pace. However, the move to SKA in 2022-23 seemed to unlock a totally different side to his game that was never present before, leading to a 43-point increase in production. Nikishin is a 6-foot-4 mobile blueliner who gives you little space to work with while playing important minutes for one of the KHL’s most prolific franchises – and as a young captain, too. I have full faith in Nikishin, who will challenge for a top-four spot immediately once he makes it to the NHL.
6. Artyom Levshunov, RHD, 18 (Chicago Blackhawks)
2023-24 rank: New
Levshunov is Chicago’s No. 1 defenseman of the future, someone they believed in enough to take him second overall last month in Vegas. He has everything scouts want in a high-end defender – size, mobility and puck-moving skills, just to name a few quality traits. He led the Spartans in scoring after putting up one of the most impressive Draft+1 seasons by a defenseman in recent USHL history the year prior. And he’s got an incredible personality, too. After bouncing around between Belarus, the USHL and NCAA over the past three seasons, Levshunov is set for full-time pro duty this year with Rockford or Chicago. He should spent the bulk of the year with the IceHogs, but I also expect him to get some duty in the NHL, too. He’s pro-ready.
7. Zayne Parekh, RHD, 18 (Calgary Flames)
2023-24 rank: New
Parekh was a big pickup for the Flames, someone I think has real star potential. With the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit, Parekh is coming off the third most productive U-18 season ever by an OHL defender, and he still has at least another year to go in major junior. There’s no reason to doubt that he won’t become the fourth defender in OHL history to break the 120-point barrier next year and become just the second behind Paul Reinhart in 1978-79 to hit 50 goals. Ryan Ellis is the only player since 2000 to register at least 100 points, doing so on the heels of a 76-assist campaign in 2010-11. Heading into the season, there were questions about whether Parekh tried to do too much with the puck and whether that killed him in his own zone. But he’s got the toolkit to make everything work at both ends, starting with his skating. Parekh isn’t an explosive skater, but he moves well side-to-side and can start and stop on a dime. He’s a manipulator offensively in how he makes you think he’s doing one thing before doing another, and he’s figured out how to use that to his advantage going the other way, too.
8. Zeev Buium, LHD, 18 (Minnesota Wild)
2023-24 rank: New
Buium became just the second U-19 defenseman to break the 50-point barrier in NCAA history, and it feels like it went under the radar. He won the national championship and the World Juniors in the same year, while Macklin Celebrini even called him the best player in the NCAA’s Frozen Four. Buium is a great skater who loves the puck on his stick, and he never seems to get frazzled, no matter the situation. In the NHL, look for Buium to become a high-output puck distributor who can score, hit, block shots and play on both special team units. Buium will be USA’s top defenseman at the World Juniors and could win a second college title. Could we perhaps see him with the big club in 2025-26?
9. Brandt Clarke, RHD, 21 (Los Angeles Kings)
2023-24 rank: 12th (+3)
Clarke is one of my favorite prospects in hockey, and it’s hard to not love his progression to date. After putting on one of the most dominant runs I’ve ever seen by an OHL defenseman in 2022-23, Clarke registered 10 goals and 46 points in 50 games as a rookie with the Reign. He also had six points in 16 games with Los Angeles while looking increasingly comfortable the more he skated in the NHL. Named to the AHL’s second all-star team, there isn’t much more for Clarke to gain in the minors beyond just adding more defensive awareness to his game. But for the most part, I think Clarke is ready to challenge for a top-four spot while showing why he’s one of the most exciting young defenders in the game.
10. Cutter Gauthier, C/LW, 20 (Anaheim Ducks)
2023-24 rank: 11th (-1)
The drama surrounding Cutter Gauthier’s trade from Philadelphia helped spice up the midway point of the NHL season. The 20-year-old had just been named top forward at the World Junior Championship after leading the United States to a gold medal, and that was just the start. Gauthier led the NCAA with 38 goals en route to a Hockey East championship and a finalist spot for the Hobey Baker Award before making his pro debut with the Ducks to close out the season.
11. Ryan Leonard, RW, 19 (Washington Capitals)
2023-24 rank: 21st (+10)
Leonard was one of the top scorers in the NCAA this past season, and now he’s ready for more. On a dominant Boston College Eagles team that made it to the national championship game, the 19-year-old scored 31 goals and 60 points, tied for fourth in the NCAA in scoring. He was a few points behind Will Smith, who finished first in the nation with 71 points. Leonard, a USA Hockey National Team Development Program alum, has been a star at almost every international tournament he has played in, and was even part of the senior World Championship team in May. I believe he is NHL-ready, but the concept of having him chase a second consecutive gold at the World Juniors and go after a national college title was enough to keep the star prospect back at Boston College, and that’s OK.
12. Berkly Catton, C, 18 (Seattle Kraken)
2023-24 rank: New
Catton isn’t built physically strong, which could cause him issues as a center. But you can’t deny the pure talent, scoring 54 goals and 116 points in 68 games in his second full year in the WHL. The Chiefs’ alternate captain is so good with the puck, often taking control of the game when Spokane is down and out. Few draft eligibles are as good at producing high-quality chances as Catton, and he works hard enough at both ends to earn the benefit of the doubt as a future NHL center. But we’ll see. And to be clear: yeah, Catton isn’t huge, but he’s 5-foot-11. It’s not like we’re talking about a puny shrimp out there. I’m not worried about his size, truthfully. His skill negates those concerns for me.
13. Sam Dickinson, LHD, 18 (San Jose Sharks)
2023-24 rank: New
Dickinson can do a bit of everything. He’s calm with the puck, makes smart, quick decisions, and plays so well in transition. He’s 6-foot-3, moves really well and had one of the most productive seasons of any CHL defenseman. There are times he’ll get caught trying to do too much with the puck, but his versatility will make him an attractive option this year. Dickinson might be the safe pick compared to others with higher upside, but I still believe in him. At the very least, look for Dickinson to challenge for the No. 1 defensemen spot on Canada’s World Junior team.
14. Cayden Lindstrom, C, 18 (Columbus Blue Jackets)
2023-24 rank: New
A 1-2 punch with Adam Fantilli? Heck yeah. Lindstrom is a unique specimen, A back injury took him out of action for about three months, but I still think we’re looking at someone who can dominate enough physically in the NHL. He’s an absolute monster out there, and scouts love the potential for him to be a high-scoring wrecking ball, somewhat like a Nathan MacKinnon or Roope Hintz. Lindstrom’s combination of speed, size and skill makes him so fascinating. Assuming his back is truly good to go, which he says it is, I expect him to dominate the WHL next year before pushing to make the Blue Jackets in a prominent role the following season.
15. Logan Stankoven, RW, 21 (Dallas Stars)
2023-24 rank: 35th (+20)
The Stars had Stankoven play in 24 regular season games in 2023-24, but just under the 25 needed, which would have kept him off this list. The former WHL star made a huge impression in his first pro season, scoring 24 goals and 57 points in 47 games with the Texas Stars. That was enough to win Rookie of the Year honors, which, given how much time he spent with the big club, tells you just how dominant he was. Stankoven is small at just 5-foot-8, but that hasn’t slowed him down in his pursuit to become one of the best prospects in the game. He had 14 points in 24 games and was a great secondary producer during Dallas’ playoff run.
16. Gabe Perreault, LW, 19 (New York Rangers)
2023-24 rank: 37th (+21)
Everyone knew Perreault was damn good – he set a new USA Hockey National Team Development Program scoring record in 2023-24. But the perception, especially in the first 70 percent of the season, was that he was more of a finisher than a playdriver and that he needed his linemates to get a lot of the work done, especially with Perreault’s skating being average at best. But this past year at Boston College, Perreault was the one making many of the plays happen on a given night and made many scouts believe he’s truly a top-line caliber player at the next level. And, heck, even his skating is better. If the recent World Junior Summer Showcase is anything to go by, he already looks more explosive.
17. David Jiricek, RHD, 20 (Columbus Blue Jackets)
2023-24 rank: 9th (-8)
Jiricek primarily played in the NHL last year, registering 10 points in 43 games. But he also spent a significant chunk back in Cleveland, where he worked on improving his defensive play. At times, it felt like he was way too good for there, but maybe not fully ready to take on bigger responsibilities in the NHL. But we witnessed a young man with so much potential as one of the top defensive prospects in the game, and he just needs to iron it out. Given CBJ was far from a playoff team, I wish Pascal Vincent gave him more of a leash to make mistakes, but I know he was also fighting to keep his own job alive. I expect Jiricek to break out in a big way with a new coach in Columbus because his two-way game is tremendous and he makes things happen with the puck. I see him as a top-pairing defenseman in the future.
18. Shane Wright, C, 20 (Seattle Kraken)
2023-24 rank: 14th (-4)
After a bit of an all-over-the-place Draft+1 season in 2022-23, Wright found stability last year – and thrived. Wright scored 22 goals and 47 points in his first full year of pro hockey in Coachella Valley and was a big reason why the team made the Calder Cup final. He also skated in eight NHL games, putting up a solid five points for a Kraken team that ultimately missed the playoffs. The onus is on him to insert himself into a spot to be a regular contributor but I still believe in him – his two-way game is too good for him to fall by the wayside. This season is going to be extremely important as Wright looks to become a more valuable, all-around threat for a team needing some help.
19. Anton Silayev, LHD, 18 (New Jersey Devils)
2023-24 rank: New
Of all the defensemen taken in 2024, Silayev was the best at actually playing defense, but he lacks the offensive stylings the others do. But the 6-foot-7 blueliner played some important minutes in the KHL while blocking shots, landing hits and showing off great skating for his size. There aren’t a whole lot of big defenders who can skate as well as Silayev does, and his ice time in the KHL is something that has never been seen by someone his age. He’s going to be a star in a few years, while giving a nice alternative to the more high-flying offensive stylings of Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec.
20. Simon Edvinsson, D, 21 (Detroit Red Wings)
2023-24 rank: 13th (-7)
It’s time for Edvinsson to make the jump to full-time duty. He had some brief looks the past two years, but I want to see him go out there and really push the needle and give the Wings the size and skill he brings to the table. Edvinsson looked more engaged at both ends of the ice in his 16-game NHL stint than he did in his first year in North America, and he has figured out how to command the ice better as his confidence continues to grow. The thing that stood out the most about Edvinsson in his draft year is that he doesn’t have many glaring flaws – he can skate, hit, has great reach and is good with the puck. The foundation is there for Edvinsson to be a star on the Red Wings for more than a decade.
21. Tij Iginla, LW, 18 (Utah HC)
2023-24 rank: New
Score, score and score some more. That’s what he does best. Iginla is a solid distributor, don’t get me wrong. But with the puck on his stick, he’s a dangerous generator. He plays with good pace, and while he isn’t big, he’s physically strong. There’s top-six potential here for a guy who loves controlling the pace of play. It doesn’t hurt having his family’s pedigree, either. His work ethic is among the best I saw from anyone in the 2024 NHL Draft and he was easily one of Canada’s most impressive players at the World Junior Summer Showcase. Look for Iginla to become a star in the new market of Utah.
22. Lane Hutson, LHD, 20 (Montreal Canadiens)
2023-24 rank: 28th (-6)
How can you not love watching Lane Hutson play hockey? Habs fans are so pumped about him, and for good reason. He finished his sophomore campaign with the NCAA’s Boston University Terriers with 15 goals and 49 points in 38 games, a single point more than his freshman total last year. Since 2019-20, only two defensemen have more points than Hutson’s 97 – Zach Metsa’s 117 and Jackson LaCombe’s 99. The difference? They played double the games, and nobody came within spitting distance of Hutson’s 1.28 point-per-game average. From an early age, his offensive instincts were top of the class. You won’t find defensemen with Hutson’s creativity often – he’s so slick, often taking the puck from a standstill and creating a chance in close, a la Cale Makar. Hutson is a human highlight reel – he spins with ease, and with quick footwork, he’s so difficult to stop. He’s incredibly deceptive, using head fakes to lure you in before making a high-impact move. His first few NHL games were a good start, and now I’m excited to see what happens to him in 2024-25.
23. Calum Ritchie, C, 19 (Colorado Avalanche)
2023-24 rank: 41st (+18)
Ritchie’s ability to keep adapting and learning makes him so effective. After a great U-18 World Championship was cut short due to a shoulder injury, Ritchie missed time in his third OHL campaign but set a new career-high with 52 assists and 80 points in 50 games played. Ritchie was also a serious contender for OHL playoff MVP with 30 points in 21 games, only for the Generals to fall in four games. Ritchie is a strong, smart, two-way center who can play against anyone and come out on top, and I fully believe he’ll be an impact player for the Avs in the long run. He just does so many things right, whether it be creating high-quality chances or helping out around his own net. I hope he gets a good look in camp – but at the very least, I expect Ritchie to be a big part of Canada’s World Junior squad.
24. Konsta Helenius, C, 18 (Buffalo Sabres)
2023-24 rank: New
When the Sabres took Helenius, you could tell Matthew Savoie’s days with the organization were numbered. They play different games, but Helenius is a bit more reliable as a two-way center, and he’s also got experience on the way. He’s coming off one of the most productive seasons ever by a U-18 player in the top Finnish league, which is great. He had a bit of a disappointing end to the season at the U-18s and World Championship, but the fact he looked so good against men for the better part of the year shows he can physically and mentally handle stronger competition. For a 5-foot-11 center, a lack of size hasn’t prevented Helenius from shining. He’s a battler who never gives up on a puck and plays with muscle. His hockey sense is among the leaders in this draft class, and he’s just so physically in tune with his own strengths. Helenius has a skill set, knows how to play to it, and uses it to overpower opponents, no matter their experience. I’m really excited about his future in Buffalo.
25. Oliver Moore, C, 19 (Chicago Blackhawks)
2023-24 rank: 18th (-7)
Moore was the fastest player in the 2023 NHL Draft, and someone many who followed the USA Hockey National Team Development Program in 2022-23 thought was underrated, in a sense. Moore is more than just a quick skater, though: he’s one of the hardest-working forwards you’ll find, and he’s extremely versatile. He has a good shot, but he filled more of a playmaker role as a freshman with the Golden Gophers this past season. Moore’s game is all about being toolsy, and if he doesn’t make it as a top-six forward, he has a realistic chance of being one of the best bottom-six forwards in the NHL. I fully believe he’s going to be a big part of the Blackhawks moving forward.
26. Cole Eiserman, LW, 18 (New York Islanders)
2023-24 rank: New
There wasn’t a prospect with a better shot in the 2024 NHL draft, and he’s now the all-time leading goal-scorer in USA Hockey National Team Development history. I thought he had an up-and-down U-18 World Championship, but he really showed how much energy and violence he can bring at times. Defensively, Eiserman can be invisible, although I liked that he played the penalty kill during the 2024 World Junior Summer Showcase. I think the upside is still huge but at this point, you’re going to need a more defensively responsible center to take the pressure off him. The right usage will allow Eiserman to be a star, and I genuinely believe in him.
27. Olen Zellweger, LHD, 21 (Anaheim Ducks)
Rank: 16th (-11)
Zellweger got his first taste of the NHL last year, playing in 26 games in the second half – just enough to not make him eligible for the Calder Trophy this season. He’s set to challenge for a full-time roster spot in 2024-25, where he’ll look to be a notable offensive contributor in the way the Ducks wanted Drysdale to be. Zellweger could easily register 30-plus points next year, especially if he gets the power-play time he’s capable of exploiting. Few young defenders cause as much damage as Zellweger does, and it’s thoroughly entertaining to watch.
28. Jonathan Lekkerimäki, RW, 20 (Vancouver Canucks)
2023-24 rank: 64th (+36)
Lekkerimäki needed a big Draft+2 season and he delivered in a huge way. It was highlighted by winning MVP at the World Juniors on home ice, and it continued with 19 goals and 31 points in 46 games with Orebro. Given he had just nine points in the Allsvenskan regular season last year before finishing off strong during the postseason, it helped put Lekkerimäki back on the right track – especially since he was healthy. Lekkerimäki finished the season with Abbotsford and will get a chance to play a bigger, leading role this year before challenging for the big squad. I love his shot and the way he gets into open space. While he’s not much of a physical threat, he doesn’t shy away from board battles as often anymore.
29. Carter Yakemchuk, D, 18 (Ottawa Senators)
2023-24 rank: New
With 30 goals, 71 points and 120 penalty minutes in 66 games, Yakemchuk was one of the most intriguing defensemen from the 2024 NHL Draft. At the combine, many players still considered him to be the most underrated player in this draft class. He’s such a pain for players to deal with because he’s nearly the entire package – offense, size and skating, mainly. Defensively, though, I still need to see more improvement. His decision-making under pressure leaves a bit to be desired, but the potential is high here. With some seasoning, Yakemchuk could be a high-output defender in the NHL, especially on the power play, and if he can figure out how to defend at a higher level in his own zone, the Sens could look like absolute geniuses taking him seventh overall.
30. Danila Yurov, C, RW, 20 (Minnesota Wild)
2023-24 rank: 53rd (+23)
Yurov had a breakout season, scoring 21 goals and 49 points in 62 games with Magnitogorsk. He had a quieter playoff run (they won the championship, however), but given his 37-point increase in the regular season – marking one of the most prolific scoring runs by a 20-year-old in KHL history – it was remarkable to see. Many people credit his move from the wing to center as a nice boost to his overall makeup, because he drove the play as well as anyone and has confidence to burn. One of the closest comparables to Yurov in terms of pure production might actually be Kirill Kaprizov, which should excite Wild fans. He’s so hard to contain and read, and that dynamism will allow him to thrive in the NHL.
31. Denton Mateychuk, LHD, 20 (Columbus Blue Jackets)
2023-24 rank: 40th (+9)
What a year for Mateychuk. He started the year riding a point streak spanning more than 20 games before playing a big part with Canada’s World Junior team. He tailed off a bit later on in the season, but the Warriors captain had 17 goals and 75 points in 52 games – and another 11 goals and 30 points en route to a WHL title. Mateychuk will put up a good fight to make the Blue Jackets next year, but some seasoning with Cleveland seems like the best bet. You don’t find defensemen putting up 64+ points in the WHL three years in a row often, so I’m really excited to see what he does this season.
32. Beckett Sennecke, RW, 18 (Anaheim Ducks)
2023-24 rank: New
Was drafting Sennecke at No. 3 in June a risky play for the Ducks? Maybe, but they’re banking on him truly developing into this overwhelming forward who can score, hit and outthink opponents with ease. He stands tall at 6-foot-2, plays a menacing game built on power, and continues to hone his own abilities. And that’s huge, given his game was built on highlight-reel, ankle-breaking plays for so long. Add in the muscle and the way he drives the net and it makes him extremely difficult to contain. Unfortunately, he’s set to start the season on the sidelines, losing out on the late-season momentum from 2023-24.
33. David Reinbacher, RHD, 19 (Montreal Canadiens)
2023-24 rank: 20th (-13)
To say it was a difficult season for Reinbacher is an understatement – and a lot of it was out of his control. After playing heavy minutes for EHC Kloten in the top league in Switzerland in 2022-23 – something you rarely see in any European pro league from an 18-year-old – injuries and a lack of quality support in the team’s lineup hindered the Austrian defender’s campaign. He saw his offense cut in half, but his ice time never wavered, often sitting between 18-20 minutes most nights. No Kloten defenseman was used more in 5-on-5. Reinbacher looked a lot more comfortable with the puck once he returned from his knee injury midway through the NL season, but those are two valid issues still to this day. At 6-foot-4, he’s got the size all NHL teams crave. And we’ve seen enough great moves with the puck to suggest he can put up points at the pro game – he just needs to break out of his shell and play with a bit more urgency. He has top-pairing potential, but adjusting to life in Laval will be crucial.
34. Jiri Kulich, C, 20 (Buffalo Sabres)
2023-24 rank: 25th (-9)
It was another exciting season for Kulich, who helped Czechia win bronze at the World Juniors with 12 points in seven games. He also had 27 goals and 45 points in 57 AHL contests, one point fewer than the total he had in 62 games as a rookie. Kulich loves to shoot the puck and has some excellent hands, and his ability to stand up in big moments – whether it be with Czechia or in Rochester – can’t go unnoticed. The fact he’s played so much pro hockey already at 20 years old is a huge bonus, and while I’m not 100 percent convinced he’ll be a full-time NHLer next year, I do think he’s a future 25-30 goal-scorer with the Sabres.
35. Easton Cowan, LW, 19 (Toronto Maple Leafs)
2023-24 rank: New
Just about everyone was shocked to see the Leafs take Cowan at No. 28 in 2023, only to watch him take home both the OHL regular season and playoff MVP titles. Cowan had an OHL-record 42-game point streak and capped the year off with an incredible 15 points in just four championship series games. Between his OHL results, which were highlighted by a league title, and a spot on Canada’s World Junior team, Cowan has shown why the Leafs made the right call taking him when they did. He looks stronger, smarter, and more engaged at both ends, to the point where I think he’ll make a real case to start the season with the Maple Leafs.
36. Dalibor Dvorský, C/RW, 19 (St. Louis Blues)
2023-24 rank: 22nd (-11)
After starting the season in the SHL – and failing to register a point in 10 games – Dvorský joined the Sudbury Wolves and quickly became one of the most dominant forces in the OHL. He played with quality teammates, but Dvorský had 45 goals and 88 points in just 52 games – just bonkers numbers for an 18-year-old in his first year in North America. Now set for a sophomore campaign and a whopping fourth appearance at the World Juniors, I expect Dvorský to turn even more heads and potentially establish himself as the best prospect in the Blues’ system. Some think he is already. Others want to see him put up good production against higher competition and be a bit more consistent.
37. Axel Sandin Pellikka, RHD, 19 (Detroit Red Wings)
2023-24 rank: 39th (+2)
It was an impressive year for ASP, who was named best defenseman at the World Juniors en route to a silver medal. He also won the SHL championship with Skelleftea and took home the Salming Trophy as the Swedish defenseman of the year. Not too shabby for his first full year playing against men, but it isn’t surprising given how dominant he was against his own age group last year. While Edvinsson is more about size, Sandin-Pellikka’s slick maneuvering with the puck will make him difficult to read, and he’s got the skating to really fly around the ice. All he does is impress at every level, and the fact he isn’t even Detroit’s best defensive prospect has to be exciting for a fanbase that seems to love their Swedish blueliners.
38. Rutger McGroarty, C/LW, 19 (Pittsburgh Penguins)
2023 rank: 54th (+16)
McGroarty’s ability to score, hit and outwork opponents makes him so intriguing, and I fully believe he’d be an excellent addition up front. McGroarty is a good two-way center, too, but I want to see him getting comfortable in the big leagues on a high note because I fully believe he can handle it. Scouts love him. I love him. McGroarty does so much with and without the puck that I feel gets overlooked. He’s got size and speed, and the offense has been incredible this year, with him blasting past the 50-point mark as a sophomore in college. McGroarty battles so hard that, if he isn’t scoring, he’s still doing enough to keep himself relevant on the scoresheet. The World Juniors was proof of that. And I’m excited that he’s set for full-time pro duty this year because there wasn’t much more for him to prove at Michigan.
39. Jimmy Snuggerud, RW, 20 (St. Louis Blues)
2023-24 rank: 31st (-8)
After all the hype that Matthew Knies and Logan Cooley got at the University of Minnesota in 2022-23, Snuggerud seemed underrated. He had 50 points that year and was Minnesota’s best player this past season while doing a bit more heavy lifting. Snuggerud also has gained success on the international stage, helping the U.S. take home bronze at the IIHF World Junior Championship in 2023, before helping the Americans win gold in Sweden this past January. Minnesota should remain competitive this year, and I think Snuggerud will have a chance to establish himself as one of the best players in the country. But after that, there’s no excuse for Snuggerud to not turn pro. I think he’s not far from being ready to step in and make an impact with the Blues.
40. Matthew Savoie, C, 20 (Edmonton Oilers)
2023-24 rank: 24th (-16)
I like Savoie, who, at 5-foot-9, is definitely on the smaller side, but his skill level isn’t. The first thing that stands out when watching Savoie is his playmaking. He plays the game at a high pace, which means making decisions on the fly under pressure. When the game’s moving slowly around him, he uses his patience to make the right pass at the right time. For someone who touches the puck as often as Savoie does, we don’t see him giving it up often or sending it to someone who isn’t ready. When Savoie makes a pass, he does it with a purpose. But the young center can also destroy you with his quick hands and flashy moves, especially in 1-on-1 breakaway situations. It’ll be interesting to see how the Oilers handle his development, but I think he should spend significant time in Bakersfield, focusing on becoming stronger and allowing him to learn how to beat older, stronger competition.
41. Dmitri Simashev, LHD, 19 (Utah HC)
2023-24 rank: 27th (-14)
The 6-foot-5 defender played his first full season in the KHL last year, registering 10 points in 63 games. While that’s not a lot, the fact he played heavy minutes against quality, top-level competition at just 19 years old is huge, with his large frame allowing him to bully opponents at will. He’s never overly aggressive, so he doesn’t get himself into trouble often, and he’s the type of player you want going up against top lines because he makes it difficult to beat him. Simashev will return to Yaroslavl for at least one more year before likely making the trek over to North America for 2025-26. For what it’s worth, I think he’ll be NHL-ready once he comes over.
42. Michael Brandsegg-Nygård, RW, 18 (Detroit Red Wings)
2023-24 rank: New
Brandsegg-Nygard might not be the flashiest player, but he’s got all the tools to become a good top-six forward for Detroit. He had one of the best shot releases in the 2024 draft, and with the right linemates, he’s going to be one heck of a scoring threat. He looked great at the World Junior Championship for the lowly Norwegians and then finished the year off with a couple of great final games with the men’s national team. MBN plays at a high pace while logging significant ice time in the second-tier Swedish league. I expect him to be a solid two-way player in the NHL at the very least, and 50 points a year feels like a very attainable goal.
43. Trevor Connelly, LW, 18 (Vegas Golden Knights)
2023-24 rank: New
From an on-ice perspective, Connelly has so much going for him and was an excellent pick for the Golden Knights. He might end up being the most purely skilled winger the team has ever taken. He’s been the best player on the ice every time he represented the United States and lit up the USHL all season long. He almost cracked 80 points last year, making him one of the most productive wingers in the draft class. It’s too bad his U-18s ended with a bad penalty because he looked like a star out there on USA’s third line. Defensively, Connelly needs work, but I do appreciate how well he controls the game with the puck on his stick. I expect Connelly to be a major piece of Providence’s attack this year and can’t wait to watch him challenge for a top-six NHL role one day.
44. Brayden Yager, C, 19 (Winnipeg Jets)
2023-24 rank: 55th (+11)
Yager was far and away the best prospect in Pittsburgh’s system, and maybe the only one with a realistic shot of being a top-six forward. Right now, he’s not the runaway No. 1 with Winnipeg (he and Brad Lambert are close, in my opinion), but I do see a solid NHL future for him still. Yager had a wonderful 35-goal, 95-point season with Moose Jaw and was one of just a few Canadian World Junior players who seemed to do anything last winter. The dynamic, goal-scoring forward has one of the better shots in the WHL, and he fights for the puck on every shift as if his career depends on it. I loved Yager in my live viewings at the Buffalo Prospect Challenge last summer, and I can’t wait to see what he’s capable of as one of the WHL’s most dominant players this year. Yager is also quite good in the faceoff dot, too, which doesn’t hurt.
45. Brad Lambert, C, 20 (Winnipeg Jets)
2023-24 rank: 56th (+11)
I was so happy to see Lambert have such an excellent season last year after a difficult 2022-23. He had an assist in his NHL debut and also scored 21 goals and 55 points in 64 games with Manitoba. It wasn’t his first pro year, having played two full seasons in the Finnish Liiga, but it helped establish himself as a legit high-end prospect again. There’s an argument that he’s the best the team has, too, although I’m still giving Yager’s overall game an edge. I hope Lambert has another strong preseason and pushes himself into the conversation to play full-time with Winnipeg sooner rather than later because a player with his skill will be so much fun to watch at the next level.
46. Quentin Musty, LW, 19 (San Jose Sharks)
2023-24 rank: 34th (-12)
Musty is one of the best offensive threats in the OHL, showing he can play with just about everyone. He’s strong, skilled and has an excellent shot release, allowing him to be effective from just about anywhere on the ice. Musty had 43 goals and 102 points in 53 games while looking especially dominant in the second half of the season. After getting passed over last year, expect Musty to play a top-six role with USA’s World Junior Championship team this winter. That is, of course, unless he makes the Sharks out of training camp, which isn’t even completely out of the question given how good he was against his age group last year.
47. Michael Hage, C, 18 (Montreal Canadiens)
2023-24 rank: New
I liked that the Canadiens moved up to take Hage because they snagged a forward with some second-line potential. Hage had a huge first full season with the Steel, scoring 33 goals and 75 points in 54 games. It’s exactly what we expected from him after his great U-16 season with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens, and it helped him solidify his status as a first-round pick. Hage was one of the USHL’s best pure forwards with a combination of size, great skating, and tremendous puckhandling. As far as centers go, Hage is one of the best available this past year. I’m excited to see him at college.
48. Bradly Nadeau, RW, 19 (Carolina Hurricanes)
2023-24 rank: New
Nadeau is coming off an impressive season and packs a ton of power and pace into his 5-foot-10 frame. Nadeau was a Hobey Baker Award nominee after leading Maine with 19 goals and 46 points, edging out his brother, Josh, by a single point. Stylistically, there’s a lot to like. He had one of the best shots of anyone in the draft last year, with many believing he’s a future 30-goal scorer. He’s creative, has quick hands, and has a deceptive release while also showing he can score from just about any angle. When Nadeau has the puck, you know something’s about to happen. I was a bit surprised to see him turn pro so quickly, but he’ll be a big piece of the Wolves this year. Also, despite a so-so showing at the World Junior Summer Showcase, I expect Nadeau to be a top-six player for Canada at the main WJC in Ottawa in December.
49. Jagger Firkus, RW, 20 (Seattle Kraken)
2023-24 rank: New
People have doubted Firkus for most of his career. When he was drafted, the biggest concern was that he wasn’t physically strong enough. So far, that hasn’t slowed him down, and he just led the WHL in both regular season (126 points) and playoff points (32) with Moose Jaw. Firkus won his first WHL title and helped take the team to the Memorial Cup, only for the team to get knocked out before the final. Still, Firkus won CHL Player of the Year and top scorer honors and did just about everything possible to show he’s a lethal producer. Firkus is 5-foot-11 and listed at 161 pounds, so there’s still legitimate concern about what he’ll become at the next level. But I do expect him to challenge for AHL Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25, and we’ll see what he can do from there. I think Firkus’ future is bright.
50. Marco Kasper, C, 20 (Detroit Red Wings)
2023-24 rank: 29th (-21)
Kasper’s first season in North America started off slowly, registering just five points in his first 16 games over the season’s first two months. He still had some difficult stretches, including a six-game pointless streak to close the regular season and kick off the playoffs. But when he was on his game, he was so good, eventually finishing with 14 goals and 35 points. Maybe it was having to adjust to living in a new environment or the increased speed and muscle of the AHL, but he finally got it, and it was excellent to see. Kasper isn’t likely a big producer in the NHL, but he’s an outstanding skater who likes to play physical and beat players with his hockey sense. He can fit anywhere in the lineup, just like Brendan Gallagher earlier in his career with the Montreal Canadiens.
51. Carson Rekhopf, LW, 19 (Seattle Kraken)
2023-24 rank: New
Rehkopf was one of the best players in the OHL this past season, scoring 52 goals and 95 points for the Kitchener Rangers. He also had four points with Canada’s World Junior team as a power-play specialist, giving the team some nice scoring depth deeper down when they needed it. Now he’s off to play for Brampton, which is set to be a serious contender this coming year. Could Rehkopf finish with 60 goals while playing alongside top 2025 NHL Draft prospect Porter Martone? He should also make Canada’s roster again on home ice in December, so it’s shaping up to be a potentially huge season for the scoring forward. Rehkopf has good speed and loves to attack the puck, but many believe he still needs to add more defensive awareness if he’s going to make himself fully useful at the next level.
52. Matt Coronato, RW, 21 (Calgary Flames)
2023-24 rank: 38th (-14)
After an explosive preseason put Coronato on the map early on, the winger was ultimately sent back to the AHL and finished with just nine points in 34 NHL games. Coronato had an excellent season with the Wranglers, registering 15 goals and 42 points in 41 games while bouncing around the two leagues. His time in the AHL helped him look more confident and dangerous once he got called back up to the big club, and that’s all you can ask for after jumping over from college. Coronato isn’t big, but he’s got some muscle, and he’s still learning how to use it to be more effective. It’ll be interesting to see if he makes the jump to full-time NHL duty this year because I feel like he showed enough down the stretch to warrant a closer look.
53. Oliver Bonk, RHD, 19 (Philadelphia Flyers)
2023-24 rank: New
Besides the unfortunate moment that saw the puck bounce off him and in to eliminate Canada from the World Juniors, it was a near-perfect season for the 2023 first-rounder. He played a major role with London, scoring 24 goals and 67 points in the regular season en route to an OHL championship. I also thought he looked good at the Memorial Cup, registering points in all four games – including two in the final against Saginaw. The 6-foot-2 defender commands attention on the ice, and while he can clearly score, he grew up projecting as more of a shutdown defender. The fact he’s as rounded as he is right now is such an incredible sign for his development, and for the the Flyers for believing in him.
54. Tanner Molendyk, LHD, 19 (Nashville Predators)
2023-24 rank: New
An injury limited Molendyk’s season to just 50 regular season games, and he missed out on representing Canada at the World Juniors. But he still came away with a 56-point regular season, while boasting another 10 points as a key piece of the competitive Saskatoon Blades. Molendyk is probably the best pure skater in this draft class, and he also has the confidence you love to see with the puck. I love his game with the puck, and I think he figured out how to handle his gap control even more this year to keep his game well-rounded. Molendyk isn’t big, but I’m not sure that’s going to cause him too many issues in the pro ranks. I expect Molendyk to play a big part with Canada this winter before pushing for a full-time NHL roster spot the following year.
55. Frank Nazar, C, 20 (Chicago Blackhawks)
2023-24 rank: 48th (-7)
After completing his first full season with the University of Michigan – a point-per-game effort through 41 outings – Nazar scored in his NHL debut on April 14. He played three games with the Hawks, including 17:12 against the Los Angeles Kings during the final game of the regular season. It was an exciting year for the forward, who also led the Americans to gold with eight assists at the World Junior Championship. Nazar needed that after missing most of the 2022-23 season with an injury, and now he’s ready to take his talents to Rockford in 2024-25. I expect Nazar to be a top-six NHLer with a bit of bite to his game, showing that his 5-foot-9 frame won’t be an issue.
56. Nate Danielson, C, 19 (Detroit Red Wings)
2023-24 rank: 65th (+10)
From almost making the Game 1 roster to putting a beating on the WHL, Danielson had himself an exciting campaign. He was a point-per-game player on a bad Brandon Wheat Kings team before getting moved to Portland to become a leader to close out the season. He played some of his best hockey in the playoffs in a top-six role. He has built his success on two-way play, rush offense and charging up the ice at speed. Danielson is also a leader, becoming the Wheat Kings’ captain at just 17 years old, something teams value. Danielson built a reputation in his draft year as being a “safe” pick, someone who wouldn’t put a ton of points on the board but would still become a good NHLer. And that’s the thing – I loved him in a more defensive, checking role at the World Juniors. The fact he’s so versatile and plays so many different roles will help him transition to pro next season.
57. Stian Solberg, LHD, 18 (Anaheim Ducks)
2023-24 rank: New
The Ducks already have a couple of young, puck-moving blueliners in their system, so adding Solberg – one of the most violent players from the 2024 draft – into the system was a nice win. He’s 6-foot-2, 205 pounds and loves to punish anyone who gets near him. Solberg projects himself as a defensive defender who can handle penalty-kill assignments, but he’s also more than capable of playing heavy shutdown minutes against just about anyone. The fact that nothing seems to bother Solberg is exciting, especially given how much he improved this year. The move to Sweden will be big for Solberg’s development.
58. Mavrik Bourque, C, 22 (Dallas Stars)
2023-24 rank: 57th
For as good as Logan Stankoven was, Bourque was even more impressive in the AHL. After a solid rookie campaign in 2022-23, he blew the doors open with 26 goals, 51 assists and 77 points in 71 games to lead the AHL in scoring and take home MVP honors. Bourque made his NHL debut, too, and now has nothing left to prove in the minors. A late first-rounder in 2020, Bourque finished his QMJHL career two years ago producing at a wild rate and hasn’t slowed down since turning pro. That momentum and confidence in himself is going to take him far, and while he might end up being a third-liner with this current group, I feel like they’ll easily be able to put him in anywhere and get production.
59. Joshua Roy, RW, 21 (Montreal Canadiens)
2023-24: New
The biggest thing about Roy was seeing how his game translated to the pros after dominating the junior ranks. He’s not big, and he was a one-dimensional player throughout the first half of his QMJHL tenure. But there haven’t been many AHL rookies that impressed early in a season in recent memory like Roy did, challenging for the scoring lead early on while also getting some significant opportunities with the big club. Roy had 32 points in 41 games in the AHL and another nine points in 23 NHL games. Roy was a high-end producer in the QMJHL, so it’s good to see him carry it over to the big leagues. His skating was a concern early on, but his talent trumps his flaws here. And that’s good, because success in major junior doesn’t mean pro success. For Roy, he never looked out of place against older, tougher competition. Look for the winger to make a serious push to make the Canadiens out of camp this year.
60. Joakim Kemell, RW, 20 (Nashville Predators)
2023-24 rank: 52nd (-8)
Kemell had a fantastic first season in North America, scoring 16 goals and 41 points in 67 games as a key piece of the Admirals. Now heading into his second, 60 points feels like an attainable goal – plus a few outings with the big club. Kemell loves to shoot the puck, with the 2022 first-rounder being one of my favorite goal-scorers in his draft year. He anticipates open space well, which allows him to score from just about anywhere. Kemell still needs to work on his two-way game, but I still see top-six potential.
61. Matthew Wood, RW, 19 (Nashville Predators)
2023-24 rank: 36th (-25)
After two years with the University of Connecticut – which included a points decrease in 2023-24 – Wood is hoping to hit it big with the University of Minnesota. Wood has an excellent shot, and when he’s feeling it, he can dominate any given shift. But his poor skating gives some scouts pause – will that hinder him in the pro ranks? So far, it’s been fine, especially after playing at just under a point per game as a true 17-year-old freshman in 2022-23. The pro game is a totally different story, but a big junior season could go a long way in instilling more confidence.
62. Andrew Cristall, LW, 19 (Washington Capitals)
2023-24 rank: 44th (-18)
When Cristall is on his game, he’s the best player on the ice, no matter the competition. His offensive game is equally dynamic as a shooter and a set-up man. He puts his teammates in spots to score and always talks with them to get them on the right page. There’s a reason he had 71 assists this year: he knows where he wants the puck, and can slow the game down to a pace that lets him take over. Cristall’s hands are as close to “elite” as you’ll find outside of the NHL, too. He’s not big at 5-foot-10, and he’s not a great skater, but if he can fix that part specifically, he might be fine in the NHL.
63. Tom Willander, RHD, 19 (Vancouver Canucks)
2023-24 rank: New
Willander took the unusual route for a Swede by going to the NCAA last year and it paid off massively. He established himself as one of the best young defensemen in college, earning a spot on the Hockey East second all-star team. He also played a leading role on Sweden’s silver medal effort at the WJC and will be even more prominent as the team looks to stand on the top step of the podium this winter. The speedy, two-way blueliner has all the makings of an impact top-four option for the Canucks in the long run and BU will be in good shape with him taking on an even more impactful role this year.
64. Maveric Lamoureux, RHD, 20 (Utah HC)
2023-24 rank: New
An injury limited what was supposed to be a huge year for Lamorueux, whose QMJHL squad, Drummondville, won the title. But Lamoureux wasn’t a part of the run due to a second shoulder surgery in his short career – not to mention a bout with mono. But when healthy, he’s so much fun to watch. The 6-foot-7 mammoth can flatten you with ease – and he’s also a damn good skater. That’s not a good combination if you’re a forward trying to go 1-on-1 with him. Lamoureux added about 15 pounds last summer, bulking up from 199 to 214. He said it helped make him feel more stable and stronger, allowing him to win more puck battles. Now, he just needs a healthy season to prove the work was worth it.
65. Colby Barlow, LW, 19 (Winnipeg Jets)
2023-24 rank: 46th (-19)
Barlow missed some time during the season, but he still managed to put up 40 goals and 58 points in 50 games with the Attack. His stat line might look funny with how lopsided his goals and assists are, but few players strike fear in CHL goaltenders like Barlow does, and that counts for something. But what separates him from other goal-scorers is just how engaged physically he is. Even if he ends up as a third-liner, the fact he’s willing to lay the body on just about anyone shows that he means business. You won’t mistake him for a two-way dynamo, but in the areas he’s best at – hitting and scoring – few players are as good.
66. Gavin Brindley, RW, 20 (Columbus Blue Jackets)
2023-24 rank: 47th (-19)
OK, Brindley was ranked too high last year. But I like him even more heading into the 2024-25 season. Named Big Ten Player of the Year earlier this year, it’s hard not to call Brindley one of the biggest steals of the 2023 NHL Draft so far. After a solid 38-point freshman season, he finished 25 goals and 53 points in 40 games, including two points in the game that sent Michigan to the Frozen Four. Add in his incredible performance at the World Juniors with USA, and you can see someone has very little to prove at the college level right now. Brindley isn’t big, but he’s energetic and isn’t afraid to get rough along the boards to win any battle thrown at him. I hope Brindley reunites with his good buddy Adam Fantilli again because they were downright dangerous at Michigan two years ago.
67. Liam Greentree, RW, 18 (Los Angeles Kings)
2023-24 rank: New
Greentree spent the 2023-24 campaign with the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL, collecting 36 goals and 54 assists for 90 points in 64 games. Windsor posted just 18 wins in 68 games and allowed 360 goals against, the highest in the OHL. Greentree’s 36 goals led the Spitfires, with the winger quickly becoming the team’s top player. He plays a power forward game, using his 6-foot-2, 198-pound frame to power past opponents and winning puck battles on a consistent basis. He saw a nice scoring uptick this year, and he knows how to put pucks in the net. There’s an argument that he’s an even better playmaker, but we’ll see if that comes to fruition with better linemates.
68. Scott Morrow, RHD, 21 (Carolina Hurricanes)
2023-24 rank: New
Morrow had a big final year at UMass, averaging around 25 minutes a night as one of college hockey’s premier minute-munchers – earning him a Hobey Baker Award nomination. From a style perspective, there’s a lot to like. He’s a skilled defender who skates well for his 6-foot-2, 196-pound frame, using his pure strength to get a good first stride while skating. Morrow had no issue outskating opponents in college, moving fluidly and with purpose in all three zones of the ice. Morrow also loves having the puck on his stick. When it comes to getting the puck out of his zone to start to rush, few players stood out as much as Morrow the past three years. He’s a strong puckhandler who can pull off some eye-popping moves, although the past few years have been more about cleaning up mistakes. That all comes with confidence, something Morrow doesn’t lack.
69. Brennan Othmann, LW, 21 (New York Rangers)
2023-24 rank: 42nd (-27)
I’m excited for the day when Othmann becomes a full-time NHLer. We got to see his first taste of NHL duty, playing three games without a point, but still making his presence known. Othmann had a solid 21-goal, 49-point rookie season, showing he could handle a pro workload early after taking the Peterborough Petes to the Memorial Cup in 2023. Othmann plays a hard-hitting, in-your-face game and he scores at a big enough rate that I can see him becoming a top-six NHLer one day. I love players who move like him, battle like him and score like him.
70. Conor Geekie, C, 20 (Tampa Bay Lightning)
2023-24 rank: 67th (-3)
Geekie was a big piece of the trade that sent Mikhail Sergachev to Utah – someone who looks like a serious NHL threat. He had 99 points in just 55 WHL games between Wenatchee and Swift Current and even skated in a pair of games with the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners to close out the season. Now, he’s set to challenge for a spot on the Bolts, a team that won’t likely give him the same opportunities to earn ice time as Utah would have, but he’ll be surrounded by better players and be in a more competitive environment. I wouldn’t be surprised if he spent time in Syracuse, but at 6-foot-4 and with his pure skill, I have no doubt that he’ll do what it takes to start the year in the NHL.
71. Daniil But, LW, 19 (Utah HC)
2023-24 rank: 70th (-1)
At 6-foot-6, it’s hard to miss But out there. He had 10 goals and 21 points in 55 games in his first full year of KHL action, which was good for fourth among U-20 players in the KHL. If you’re going to be effective at this size, you need to be able to skate and play with pace; But he does just that. The power forward has some tremendous skill, too, allowing him to pull off some creative moves on a whim. Like Simashev, his KHL deal ends this coming spring, so we could see him challenging for an NHL spot next year.
72. Mackie Samoskevich, RW, 21 (Florida Panthers)
2023-24 rank: 58th (-14)
Samoskevich’s pro rookie season was a big success, with the winger scoring 22 goals and 54 points in 62 games. He also played another seven games with the big club but failed to register a point. Still, it was good to see him take the steps forward he did after a great 43-point sophomore campaign with the University of Michigan in 2022-23, where he played a key role in the team’s second consecutive Big 10 championship. From a style perspective, Samoskevich is an excellent skater who loves to attack the puck, and he’s got excellent hands, too. One issue that has persisted for years, though, is how often he overhandles the puck. Sometimes, he just needs to slow down and keep things simple to be effective. But regardless, the Panthers have to be thrilled with how well he took to pro hockey this past season.
73. Liam Öhgren, LW, 20 (Minnesota Wild)
2023-24 rank: 51st (-22)
Öhgren had a great first year with Farjestad in the SHL, a season that was impacted by an early injury. He moved to North America to close out the season, and I think he played quite well in his four games with Minnesota, scoring a goal and an assist. Hopefully, Öhgren can stay healthy and power through things in his first year in North America because he’s a skilled winger with a ton going for him but he just hasn’t had a perfect chance to gain the consistency needed. He’s strong, loves getting into high-danger areas, and has been a captain on various Swedish national teams to date – something that doesn’t go unnoticed by top NHL brass.
74. Jordan Dumais, RW, 20 (Columbus Blue Jackets)
2023-24 rank: 45th (-29)
It was a difficult season for Dumais, to say the least. He had 47 points in 21 games, so he was on pace for one to absolutely demolish the scoring race. But a shoulder injury in the preseason, mixed in with another injury around the World Juniors and a late-season arrest kept him from having a remarkable season. Regardless, he’s easily one of the most productive forwards in the draft, and he’s set to turn pro with the Monsters this year. At 5-foot-9, he’s on the smaller side of things, but he makes up for it with his tremendous creativity and dual scoring/playmaking abilities. If Dumais can adjust to the game’s physical nature, he will be so much fun to watch.
75. Mikhail Gulyayev, LHD, 19 (Colorado Avalanche)
2023-24 rank: New
Gulyayev successfully moved up to full-time KHL duty last year, showing a bit more urgency and confidence with the puck compared to his draft year. At 5-foot-10, the 19-year-old puck-moving defender is definitely a disadvantage, but he’s mobile and moves the puck quite well, regardless. I’d like to see Gulyayev become a bit stronger because there’s real top-four potential, and I expect him to take big steps forward offensively because he’s got excellent instincts. Gulyayev’s KHL deal ends in 2026, which I think is enough time for him to figure things out and make the push to the NHL.
Other notables: Logan Mailloux, RHD, 21 (Montreal Canadiens), Tristan Luneau, RHD, 20 (Anaheim Ducks), Riley Heidt, C/LW, 19 (Minnesota Wild), Lian Bichsel, LHD, 20 (Dallas Stars), Owen Pickering, RHD, 20 (Pittsburgh Penguins), Sacha Boisvert, C, 18 (Chicago Blackhawks), Ryder Ritchie, RW, 18 (Minnesota Wild), Sean Behrens, LHD, 21 (Colorado Avalanche), Sam Rinzel, RHD, 20 (Chicago Blackhawks), Ethan Del Mastro, LHD, 21 (Chicago Blackhawks)
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