Why Tommy Lafrenière could be a diamond in the rough prospect at the 2025 NHL Draft

Kamloops Blazers forward Tommy Lafrenière has turned heads quite often this season.

A Central Division NHL scout told Daily Faceoff, “Think of a smaller Nick Suzuki.”

Lafrenière played his minor hockey for Yale Hockey Academy, where he was named the U18 Prep Co-MVP after tallying 27 goals and 58 points in 30 games during the 2023-24 season. Lafrenière saw nine games of action with Kamloops during the 2023-24 campaign, picking up four points.

Now in the WHL full-time, he’s continuing to produce at a high level, but he remains under the radar. Lafrenière notched 24 goals and 32 assists for 56 points in 68 games this season with the Blazers, finishing second among WHL rookies. He trailed only 2027 projected first overall pick Landon Dupont. He was listed as the 86th top North American skater in the NHL Central Scouting’s midseason list.

“In the offseason, I focused a lot on my skating—trying to get faster and stronger,” Lafrenière said. “I think that’s really helped me take a step forward. Getting called up last year also helped, just getting those extra games in and adjusting to the league.”

Lafrenière finds inspiration in some of the league’s most skilled forwards.

“I love watching Nathan MacKinnon, though I wouldn’t say I model my game after him,” Lafrenière said. “I think I play more like Nick Suzuki or Brayden Point—guys with strong hockey IQ and playmaking ability.”

An ex-NHL general manager told Daily Faceoff, “He’s got a knack for being in the right spot at the right time and his IQ is just so elite.”

With the NHL Draft on the horizon, many young players feel the pressure to perform. For Lafrenière, though, it’s not something he dwells on.

“It’s definitely in the back of my mind,” Lafrenière admitted. “Obviously, it’s cool to be considered for the draft, but I was focused on the season and making the WHL playoffs.”

Lafrenière has also leaned on veteran teammates, like captain and Detroit Red Wings prospect Emmitt Finnie and Pittsburgh Penguins draft pick Harrison Brunicke, for guidance during this pivotal season.

“I shadow Finnie quite a bit—he’s an exceptional player,” Lafrenière said. “He works hard, he’s fast, and he’s definitely someone I look up to.”

While his offensive numbers speak for themselves, Lafrenière believes his hockey IQ is one of his most underrated attributes.

“I think I have a good sense of the game and can make plays quickly,” Lafrenière said.

Lafrenière proved this past season with his play that he can compete among the best in the WHL. While the NHL Draft creeps up, Lafrenière will continue to develop his game at the highest level, and sources have indicated to Daily Faceoff that Lafrenière could represent Canada at the Under-18 Men’s Championship next month.

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