The first round of the NHL draft is Friday night in Los Angeles, and for the first time, team personnel will not be centralized. No one will be reporting on who visited whose table, who was seen speaking in the dark corners of a tunnel or who is walking over to central registry. But the players will be in attendance, which should make for interesting draft photos.

Apart from Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, there is a ton of intrigue in this year’s draft class. There is no consensus after the top two, and there is good reason to believe we will see a ton of pick shuffling as early as the first round. With such volatility across draft boards, teams might want to move up or down depending on who is available, and teams with multiple first-round picks might raise eyebrows with their selections.

For the final mock draft, we will assume the selections will stay with their teams, but there will be mention of who might be selected if the pick is traded. For instance, it sure seems as if the Columbus Blue Jackets, Utah Mammoth, Boston Bruins and Vancouver Canucks could move their first-round selections for more immediate help, and those considerations will be made.

In a mock draft, it isn’t about which player is the best, it is about how the team drafting perceives the players available — and who they are most likely to select. In other words, this isn’t an exercise of “who would I pick if I were GM” as much as it is an exercise of “who is most likely to be selected if the pick isn’t traded.”

With that out of the way, here’s the final projection of the first 32 picks:

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This is not rocket science and no one needs to overthink this. The James Hagens story — his being a Long Island native, and an Islanders fan — is a great one, and we will address that later, but Schaefer is the clear-cut best player available in this draft.

Many scouts believe he will become a franchise cornerstone defenseman capable of driving play at both ends of the ice. The Islanders are in a precarious position on defense with Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov in need of new contracts. Neither of those players will sign low-priced deals, and both have been rumored in trade discussions. Given that, the Isles clearly view Schaefer as the defenseman of the future. Should they elect to keep Dobson, the incoming Schaefer would allow the elder to slide into a role more suited to him and remove some of the heavy lifting.

Schaefer lost nearly his entire draft year to injury, and would almost certainly benefit from a year in the NCAA to continue developing. That seems unlikely. But even without that, the Isles can safely project him to step into their lineup in a significant role as a rookie. It wouldn’t surprise anyone to see Schaefer running the power play, logging top-four minutes and becoming a staple on the Isles’ back end before snow hits the ground this season.

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2. San Jose Sharks
Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)

There seems to be some intrigue surrounding the Sharks heading into draft weekend, as they have a clear need on defense and are also believed to like Anton Frondell (a center). But passing on a talent such as Misa for any reason would be ill-advised. The gap between Schaefer and Misa exists, but the gap between Misa and the next tier is even larger.

Adding a dual-threat offensive dynamo with above-average two-way play to a young lineup that already has Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith is very exciting. Misa can play center or wing, but his two-way play is more valuable at center, and would give the Sharks a significant one-two punch for years to come. A top-six group that includes Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund and Misa — who are all 22 or younger — sets up the Sharks with a formidable attack and reliable two-way play drivers in the middle of the ice for years to come.

Misa brings dynamic scoring ability, excellent speed, and elite hockey sense to combine with a never-quit style. It’s not out of the question that he steps into the lineup this season and has a similar impact to what Celebrini did as a rookie in 2024-25 because he’s such a complete player, with professional habits all over the ice.

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3. Chicago Blackhawks
Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

This is where things start to get very interesting.

It is rumored that Chicago could move this pick, but if it doesn’t, Frondell or Porter Martone seem to be the most likely selections. Hagens would be the best available, but it seems as if Chicago wants a more sizable player to pair with Connor Bedard.

In this scenario, Chicago hopes Frondell can slot into the lineup behind Bedard and provide two-way value with an elite shot release and the ability to find open space to get his shot off. Frondell would benefit from another development season outside the NHL before making the jump to become a more well-rounded play driver.

When he’s ready, the Hawks can slot Frondell across from Bedard on the power play and have two players with elite release on their flanks. Ideally, Frondell drives a second line as a powerful two-way center and gives Chicago a formidable one-two punch for years to come.

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4. Utah Mammoth
Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

There is a very real chance Utah doesn’t make this selection and trades the pick. If it does, I expect Hagens to be the selection by the acquiring team. But Utah has made it known it wants hard skill, and there are two players who fit that bill: Caleb Desnoyers and Brady Martin. Both are legitimate possibilities for the Mammoth, who want to add some beef to a top six that has Clayton Keller, Logan Cooley and Dylan Guenther.

It is no secret that Martin is high on Utah’s list, and he cemented that status by making an excellent impression when he met with Mammoth brass at the scouting combine. The farm boy has lots of teams after him, including the Flyers and Bruins. Some believe he could be a Sam Bennett type of player who produces well below a point per game in the regular season but is a “mammoth” in the playoffs. Utah believes it needs some jam at the top of its lineup, and no one this high has more jam than Martin.

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No team has scouted Martone more heavily than Nashville, and upper management was in the rink to see him on more than a few occasions. Martone might have the best hockey sense and vision in the draft class, and is also in the conversation for best puck skill. Tacking on an elite shot with his playmaking and you’ve got a 6-foot-3 forward with both hard and soft skill — and a sky-high ceiling.

He might not be Mikko Rantanen, but Rantanen is his second-closest comparable in my model, along with Cole Caufield — in terms of NHL potential, not size (obviously).

If you’re Preds GM Barry Trotz, you ask Martone to develop his physical game to become an imposing force and the makings of a dual-threat forward who will be a lot for opponents to handle. If they don’t take Martone, Trotz has been clear he values upside and skill. If he really wants to do that, Hagens feels like the guy. But there’s a sneaky hunch that Nashville could acquire an NHL player and more from the Isles in exchange for this selection if Hagens is available.

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6. Philadelphia Flyers
James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)

The Flyers need centers more than anything, and if Hagens falls into their lap at No. 6, they need to follow suit with their Matvei Michkov approach and take the kid who had no business being available to them. The possibility of adding Michkov and Hagens to their top line without drafting in the top five in those years would be astronomically valuable to the organization.

Hagens would immediately become the Flyers’ best prospect at center, and the team doesn’t need to rush him through school with Sean Couturier, Noah Cates and newly acquired Trevor Zegras already on the NHL roster. When he’s ready, Hagens can step in to provide a jolt of offense the Flyers sorely need. His speed, puck skill and excellent playmaking ability will fit nicely beside Michkov, especially if he regains his play-driving ability in another season at Boston College. The details of his game will allow him to earn the coach’s trust and become a staple of the Flyers’ offense for years to come.

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7. Boston Bruins
Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)

Another pick that could be on the move, but if the Bruins make this pick, Desnoyers would be a perfect fit for the organization. A French Canadian two-way center with excellent shutdown ability, and a clutch producer and leader in a Bruins uniform should sound pretty familiar to Bruins fans.

Desnoyers is a serial winner, and he plays his best when the games matter the most. He’s excellent in the tough areas, is a deft playmaker and has high-end hockey sense. His defensive game is already NHL-ready, and if he can improve his speed, the Bruins will have a legitimate offensive threat capable of handling tough matchups in key situations.

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8. Seattle Kraken
Jake O’Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)

There’s a consensus group of six at the top of the draft after Schaefer and Misa, and Seattle probably takes whomever is left from that group. But the Kraken need a defenseman, and I could see them trading back a few spots to the range of Radim Mrtka and Jackson Smith.

If they stay at No. 8, I think O’Brien is the pick, unless they opt for Roger McQueen. Seattle is one of the deepest teams when it comes to young centers with Matty Beniers, Shane Wright and Berkly Catton all age 22 or younger. O’Brien is a high-end talent and might allow the Kraken to move Catton to the wing in the top six.

O’Brien brings more high-end playmaking than Wright and Beniers, and will have time to physically mature and add speed to hit his ceiling as a playmaking top-six center. He should become a playmaking force who quarterbacks the power play and makes his wingers a lot of money.

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9. Buffalo Sabres
Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)

The Sabres have a decent prospect pool, but the organization really needs high-end center and right-handed defensive prospects. Both Mrtka and McQueen should be available to them here, but it feels as if the big defenseman is their guy.

The 6-6, right-handed defenseman has projectable mobility and quality transition defending, and could be the perfect partner for Rasmus Dahlin or Owen Power. Adding Mrtka gives the Sabres another quality defenseman with projectable shutdown ability as the organization looks to end the NHL’s longest playoff drought.

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10. Anaheim Ducks
Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)

The Ducks could very well trade this pick for current NHL help; GM Pat Verbeek already has been quite active this offseason. But if not, taking a towering center who is a top-five talent in the draft makes a lot of sense.

The Ducks took McQueen out to dinner at the combine, and appear to have done a significant amount of homework on his back injury. If the Ducks believe it won’t be an issue moving forward, adding a powerful 6-5 center who has the potential to be a dominant two-way force is a no-brainer. The only limit on McQueen’s ceiling is his body’s willingness to hold up. If it does, we’re talking about a player who could end up as the one of the best to come out of the draft class. That is worth the swing for the Ducks.

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Holding two picks back to back, the Penguins might very well try to move up to nab an elite prospect — their pick value combined is nearly identical to the No. 3 pick, so moving up is probably not entirely out of the question. Failing that, the Penguins have an opportunity to add two significant players to their pipeline.

If McQueen is available, I think they take a long look. But adding Smith to their blue-line depth would be tidy business for the Penguins, who currently have Owen Pickering and Harrison Brunicke there. Smith is big, physical and has legitimate offensive upside. He should be capable of playing in a matchup role and driving offense from the back end. He’s poised with the puck and will be close to Penguins brass while he attends Penn State.

There’s a lot to like about the package Smith brings and the Penguins could use a player with his blend of size, skating, poise and offensive upside.

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The Penguins land another top-10 talent here with Eklund. Carter Bear and Lynden Lakovic will also be options given that both have outstanding offensive talent.

But as for Eklund, he plays a style that translates well to the NHL and has the potential to produce 70-plus points in a top-line role. His excellent forechecking ability, willingness to engage physically, fearlessness driving to the middle of the ice and two-way play give him the tools to be a Seth Jarvis type of player.

He’ll probably be NHL-ready sooner than later, and for a team with as many veterans as the Penguins, that matters. Having Eklund learn from the future Hall of Famers in the twilight of their career could have a lasting developmental impact that vaults Eklund toward his ceiling as a first-line engine.

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The Red Wings have a type, and luckily for them, a few players in their range fit the bill: Bear, Eklund and Justin Carbonneau. At least two, if not all three, could be available at this spot.

Bear’s elite instincts and playmaking ability are attractive to many teams, including Detroit. Combined with one of the best competitive engines in the draft class, Bear has all the hallmarks of a play-driving winger with reliable two-way play, similar to Zach Hyman.

The Red Wings have some quality young centers, and Bear’s blend of playmaking and net-front finishing ability could see him become a power-play operator and offensive facilitator. He’d be an excellent fit for the Red Wings as a projectable top-six contributor.

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There’s a distinct possibility that Columbus trades this pick for immediate help. But if it doesn’t, this feels like the floor for Aitcheson, given the Blue Jackets’ need to add defenseman.

Though Logan Hensler is likely to be a consideration here — and they do like him a lot — there are only a few scenarios that Aitcheson gets to the Jackets’ second pick at No. 20, so it makes sense they’d take him here.

In Aitcheson, Blue Jackets are adding a raw defenseman who could become a menacing nightmare to play against while providing two-way value. As one of the more raw prospects, Aitcheson needs time to develop, but there is every reason to believe in his skill set to become a middle-pair defenseman who is difficult to play against, particularly in the postseason.

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15. Vancouver Canucks
Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)

In what is probably the worst-kept secret in the hockey world, Vancouver is after a center. The Canucks took Cootes to dinner at the combine, have scouted him heavily throughout the season and were very impressed by how he handled himself throughout the combine process. Jack Nesbitt could find himself here because the Canucks love their centers with size, but Cootes and Cole Reschny have higher ceilings.

Cootes should become a middle-six center with reliable two-way ability, excellent off-puck instincts and produce 55 to 65 points each season. If Aitcheson is available, they might not be able to resist the big, menacing defenseman.

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The Canadiens have a dynamic offensive presence on their blue line in Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson, and Reid could be a perfect partner for him. Montreal brass scouted Reid heavily this season, and have many believing it will target him with one of the team’s two first-round selections. The Canadiens are another team that could take Aitcheson, but Reid’s ability to drive play through excellent skating ability and sound decision-making is hard to pass up.

He has the tools to become a solid top-four defenseman, and doesn’t need to overextend himself on offense to provide value. He’s less risky than some of the other available defenseman, with projectable offense and excellent mobility to boost his transition value.

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17. Montreal Canadiens
Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

I have Carbonneau higher on my personal board than most because I believe he has sky-high potential as a power forward. With Juraj Slafkovsky already in the fold, the Habs need some more size to complement Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield and Ivan Demidov.

Carbonneau has the potential to become a dual-threat forward in a top-six role, with high-end creativity. If everything clicks and his decision-making improves, there’s a chance Carbonneau becomes a powerful, play-driving forward. The Habs’ development staff is robust and has done excellent work. Given Carbonneau’s upside, which is significant, he is more than worth the swing for the hometown team.

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Calgary needs some depth at center in its prospect pool, and Reschny is good value in this range. He’s a quality playmaker who facilitates offense, and has the best hockey sense of the centers in this range. He doesn’t come with size and will need to play on the inside of the ice to hit his potential of a second-line center, but the offensive tools are there.

The details of his game are nearly NHL-ready, with good battle success, connective play and forechecking. There’s potential to become a dual-threat playmaker and shooter, which is something the Flames covet.

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19. St. Louis Blues
Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)

The Blues have used a lot of their best draft capital on defense, and the pressing need for centers in the pipeline can’t be ignored.

Nesbitt has received a lot of love from executives since the scouting combine, and could slide into the top 20. The big center is likely to top out as a third-line, two-way checker but could see elevated offensive potential if he adds speed. At 6-4, he brings size, strength, physicality and the ability to shut down opponents. That is attractive to many teams, including the Blues.

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It’s not out of the question that the Blue Jackets take another defenseman with their second first-round pick, and I think it’s more likely than not. Lynden Lakovic would be a strong consideration if he’s available, but Hensler is someone the Columbus brass highly covets.

He’s a quality neutral-zone and transition defender because of his excellent mobility, allowing him to make proactive contact and keep a tight gap. The right-shot defender could become a quality No. 2 or 3 defenseman if he hits his ceiling and continues to develop his offensive game.

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21. Ottawa Senators
Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)

Lakovic makes a ton of sense for the Sens. Management seems to really like the big, dual-threat winger with untapped physical potential. He’s smart, moves very well for his 6-4 frame, and should have chemistry in the top six, regardless of which center he plays with.

If Lakovic can develop his physicality, the Sens have a legitimate dual-threat scorer with a power game who should be a difference-maker.

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The freight train on skates is gaining a full head of steam heading into Friday night’s first round, and the consensus is that a lot of teams love his style of play and believe he’ll go in the early 20s. Teams with multiple first-round selections tend to take swings with their picks, and Prokhorov is certainly one.

The Flyers are likely to take a big swing with at least one of their firsts, and a sizable, violently physical kid who has raw offensive abilities that can translate into a power forward is exactly the kind of talent someone like new head coach Rick Tocchet would be very excited to develop.

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Given where the Predators are selecting at fifth and 23rd, it is highly likely they take a forward at No. 5, if they don’t trade the pick. But given that their pipeline is thin on defense, Boumedienne makes a lot of sense for them here.

Trotz likes to swing on upside, and Boumedienne has the most upside of the defensemen in this range. He has legitimate offensive upside, is an effective breakout passer and is capable of playing a two-way transition game on a second pair. If Logan Hensler is available, he would be a major consideration, and Blake Fiddler is probably in the conversation as well, although the first two are the higher-upside options.

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24. Los Angeles Kings
Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)

As noted in my prospect pool needs story, the Kings have almost nothing in the defensive prospect cupboard. Luckily for them, a 6-5 right-handed defenseman with NHL bloodlines is there for the taking in this scenario.

Fiddler is a mobile skater who eliminates play in transition. He has above-average puck-retrieval skills, and projects as a reliable shutdown defenseman at the NHL level. This is the right range for Fiddler, and he fits perfectly with what the Kings need, and will have time to develop into the big, shutdown guy the Kings will rely upon in the years to come.

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More and more, I hear that teams are high on Nestrasil’s potential as a skilled power forward. At 6-5, he adds some much-needed size to the Blackhawks’ prospect pool without sacrificing potential.

He’s a longer-term project, but the blend of passing, hockey sense and playmaking is attractive. There is high-end upside as a power forward that is tantalizing, because he has a lot of room to fill out his frame. If he learns to leverage his physicality, he could be a space-creating winger who is capable of playing in the top six in a dual-threat role with a quality release. The upside here is worth the swing for a Chicago team that lacks a big power forward in their prospect pool.

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Once thought to be top-10 prospect, Spence would be a great addition to the Preds’ prospect pool. I could see them taking goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen here, but the thought is he may be available when they pick again at No. 35.

Spence brings a good blend of speed, physicality and relentless two-way play. He’s the guy who will go get pucks, create space, forecheck to create turnovers and play in key situations. Spence has more offense to give, and there’s a real chance he becomes a pesty, second-line winger who can play tough matchups. The Preds don’t have a prospect like Spence, and he’d be good value if he can return to last year’s form.

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The Capitals have a type, and they love to take swings. Their prospect pool needs a center badly, and while Milton Gastrin is more of a sure thing, getting Kindel — who notched 99 points in the WHL this season — at No. 27 is excellent value.

Many project Kindel to be a winger at the NHL level, but he has the hockey sense, playmaking and speed to be an NHL center. Kindel has a very similar draft-year profile to Brayden Point, and while Kindel may not turn into Brayden Point, the prospect of that is well worth the selection here.

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28. Winnipeg Jets
Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)

The Jets’ prospect pool is really thin on defense, and their scouts have spent a ton of time watching London, so Brzustewicz will be familiar to them.

As the season progressed, Brzustewicz showed offensive instincts with his puck movement and rush activation. There is significant room for offensive growth, and he should be London’s premier defenseman next season. The right-shot blueliner gives the Jets a projectable transition defender with good puck-moving and skating ability who should comfortably fit on the second pair down the road.

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The Hurricanes have a profile, and it is drafting prospects with high-end skill and projectable upside. It feels like they’re going to go with one of Ryker Lee or Cullen Potter.

Lee’s statistical profile is slightly better, and he owns elite playmaking, puck skill, a bullet of shot and offensive instincts. His ability to identify quiet areas and release a shot or make a deft play will translate to the NHL. His skating needs to improve to take advantage of those talents, but given that skating is the most easily improvable trait, Lee’s skill package could make him a home run pick.

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If Potter is still on the board here, adding the fastest player in the draft would be great value for the Sharks.

While they’d probably prefer to take a defenseman, Potter is too good an asset to pass up for a rebuilding team, and his promising development at the NCAA level could see him become another piece of a highly skilled top six in San Jose. There’s room for some growth for Potter, and given his two-way development, the speedster with an excellent release gives the baby Sharks another offensive player with projectable defensive quality.

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Adding a playoff-performing forward with two-way ability and a relentless playing style feels like the perfect Philadelphia Flyer move.

Zonnon has some of the best details in the draft, with excellent forechecking, good defensive instincts and a willingness to get in the dirty areas to win battles. He plays one of the more translatable games of the remaining players, and never cheats for effort.

The Flyers will need players who can fill those roles as they look to contend in the future, and Zonnon has projectable offensive playmaking traits. If he can improve his skating through development of his stride mechanics, there’s a real path to being a fan favorite in the middle six.

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If Calgary gets Reschny with their first pick, it is likely they take another center with this pick.

Gastrin has a relatively safe projection as a bottom-six center. He’s more of a play driver than he’s given credit for, and has shown the ability to compete with highly skilled players. He’s a high-floor prospect who showed flashes of more offensive ability than previously thought this season. At a minimum, his instincts and supportive puck play should allow him to become a staple of a checking line that a coach trusts in key situations.

The NHL and NHLPA are in the final stages of agreeing to a four-year extension of the CBA that includes an 84-game regular season, a solution for emergency goalies and limits player contract lengths to seven years, sources confirmed to ESPN on Thursday.

The deal could be announced as soon as Friday — ahead of the NHL draft — but would still need to be signed by both sides and ratified. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman gave the board of governors a detailed update at their meeting in Los Angeles on Wednesday, outlining the key issues.

The current CBA expires after the 2025-26 season. A four-year extension would carry the league and its players through September 2030.

Moving from 82 to 84 games in the regular season would shorten the preseason to a maximum of four games per team, sources told ESPN, instead of the current format of up to eight preseason games. An increased regular season would allow the NHL to keep their regular format of every team visiting an opponent once, while giving divisional rivals four games against each other every other season.

The new CBA will limit contract lengths for players to seven years, sources told ESPN. It will also eliminate deferred salary, which was bubbling up as a trend some teams were using to keep cap hits low. As of now, players can-resign for eight years with their current team or seven years in free agency. Going forward, players can re-sign for a max of seven years with their current team and six years in free agency.

The new deal also includes revised language that would establish a new position within organizations of full-time Emergency Backup Goaltenders — often called EBUGS — that can practice and travel with the team, sources told ESPN. Over the past several seasons, the system brought fantasy hockey tales into reality with accountants and Zamboni drivers suiting up in NHL games.

Both sides discussed eliminating the Long Term Injury Reserve loophole to ensure teams are salary cap compliant in the playoffs, and revised language is expected in the new CBA, sources told ESPN.

The new CBA will bring much-welcome labor peace to a league that has seen three lockouts in the past 20 years. This is the first major negotiation for Marty Walsh, the former Boston Mayor and U.S. Secretary of Labor, who took over as NHLPA executive director in 2023.

Walsh heavily canvassed players over the first half of last season for their input, before sitting down with Bettman early this year to hash out details.

The NHL and NHLPA have already announced significant salary cap increases over the next three seasons. Sources told ESPN that the new CBA is expected to maintain a 50-50 split of hockey related revenue between players and owners.

Daily Faceoff was the first to report that the CBA is close to being finished.

NHL draft week is officially here, and with that come the final draft rankings.

The top 64 are ranked here, along with details of their game, areas for development, their perception among NHL scouts and an NHL projection. The final set of rankings includes combine scores and a heavier weight of scouting opinions and intel against my projection model. While some players grade at higher or lower value than in previous rankings, their position considers how likely they are to become NHL players based on their developmental needs and perception in the industry.

After Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, there is almost no consensus in this draft. For example, some teams have players ranked in the 20s that others do not have on their draft list at all. Part of this is related to the fact that teams are valuing different attributes — be it skill, grit, size, playoff performance, etc. — and place higher value on players who fit their organizational mantra. More than in previous years, some players might fall in the draft because another player is higher on a specific team’s list. This could lead to teams trading up to grab players they believe have fallen too far to ignore.

The most important thing to remember is that a player’s success or failure is not dictated by his draft slot, but who he becomes in the years that follow. It is true that earlier draft picks get many more chances than late ones regardless of talent, but that doesn’t mean some gems won’t be found later in the draft. In fact, given the desire for size, truculence and hard skill over high-end talent, it is fair to suggest we might see more success from draft selections outside the first round than in previous years.

Here are the top 64 prospects, along with some players who deserve honorable mention:

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1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)

The Erie Otters defender is projected to become a true No. 1 cornerstone for years to come. A dynamic presence at both ends of the ice, the 6-foot-2 blueliner skates with ease and elite mobility to shut down opponents in all situations, while creating offense with quality transition play.

Though an injury at the IIHF World Junior Championships — where he was set to play a key role as a 17-year-old — cut his season to just 26 games, Schaefer still logged over 25 minutes per contest, and consistently drove play in his team’s favor.

Executives and scouts view him as a future elite NHL defenseman and a foundational piece for a championship-caliber roster. Schaefer’s ability to control play from the blue line, play tough matchups, and run a power play — combined with the belief in his character and leadership — result in many believing that Schaefer has the tools to become a top-10 defender in the league, while wearing a letter as part of a team’s leadership group.

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2. Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)

Granted exceptional status in the OHL in 2022, Misa delivered one of the most remarkable goal-scoring seasons in recent memory in 2024-25, netting 62 goals in just 65 games. He projects to be a top-line forward capable of consistently exceeding 90 points per season in the NHL.

Misa’s offensive instincts are elite. He processes the game at a high level and executes at top speed. Scouts believe he is NHL-ready and has the potential to become an elite top-line center. Away from the puck, Misa excels at finding soft areas in coverage and has a flair for delivering in clutch moments. His combination of high-end playmaking and goal-scoring ability makes him a constant dual threat in the offensive zone.

His two-way game has taken a noticeable step forward with improved backchecking, defensive awareness and commitment to a 200-foot game. Paired with his explosive speed and offensive firepower, Misa profiles as a foundational player.

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3. James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)

Hagens is projected to be a top-line center, or one of the NHL’s best second-line centers. He lacks the dynamism of Misa, opting for a highly cerebral and efficient play style. He brings a good work rate with excellent speed and passing ability that should see him effectively drive play at the NHL level. Scouts and executives are impressed with the professional details of his game (puck support, winning battles, defensive puck play), and they believe it will ease the transition to the NHL while he finds his offensive gear.

Another season at Boston College to further develop a more a dynamic offensive gear to become a top-line NHL center — the one that had scouts impressed during his NTDP season (with 102 points) — could be the remedy. After playing on one of college hockey’s top lines with Gabe Perreault (New York Rangers) and Ryan Leonard (Washington Capitals), Hagens would now be relied upon to drive his own line, create offense through his own playmaking and play a significant matchup role.

Hagens has the potential to be the complete package in the NHL. His understanding of spacing and ability to anticipate stands out among his peers. He’s smaller and slighter than other prospects, which worries some teams, but there’s a mix of Clayton Keller and Jack Hughes in him in terms of transition play and creativity.

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4. Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)

A big, cerebral forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player with ability to score on his own and facilitate. He projects to be a second-line scoring winger who should see top power-play minutes.

His competitive nature will make him an effective agitator as he learns to physically impose himself on opponents. He needs to hone the competitiveness and physicality to increase its effectiveness, but he is exactly the type of player teams covet because of the unique combination of offensive talent and competitive fire.

Martone’s ability to score and make plays will make him a difficult player to defend in the NHL. There are concerns about Martone’s speed and skating posture. His speed has improved this season, but Martone needs to add explosiveness to his skating to hit his ceiling.

His unique combination of scoring ability, size and hard skill make him a very attractive prospect. While his most confident projection is as a top-six forward, Martone has a legitimate chance to become a top-line winger if his skating improves.

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5. Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Frondell is a versatile two-way forward that plays both center and right wing. His flexibility is attractive to teams, although many believe he is most likely to reach his potential as a winger in the NHL.

Frondell is coming off one of the most productive seasons by an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, giving him a confident projection as a first-line NHL forward. He’s a cerebral player, who picks apart defenders in one-on-one situations and defensive coverage in offensive zone play. The details of Frondell’s game are translatable, including excellent forechecking ability, willingness to attack the middle of the ice and high-end anticipation on both sides of the puck.

He has shown play-driving capabilities against men in the Allsvenskan, which has translated to the NHL for other prospects in the past. He’s projected to produce between 75-85 points per season. His style of play translates well and has executives excited about his ability to step in the league in the next 18 months.

He impressed during the physical testing and interview portions of the scouting combine, leaving many teams impressed. His two-way ability combined with great anticipation and a high-end shot make him one of the more exciting prospects in the class.

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6. Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)

Described as “a unicorn” because he’s a 6-5 center who skates with the speed and mobility that you would expect from a smaller player, McQueen has been a hot topic all season.

He profiles as a prototypical modern-day power forward who blends soft skill with physicality. Elite right-handed centers are rare in the NHL, and McQueen’s size and willingness to physically dictate play adds undeniable value. He has professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL, and unique offensive upside that is still developing given the loss of playing time due to injury during his draft season.

McQueen dominates the cycle game, creates offense on the rush and uses his physical gifts to dominate the cycle and protect pucks. His projection as an elite top-line center lacks confidence, due to lack of playing time from his back injury. Without the injury, we might be discussing McQueen near the top of this draft class because his package of skating, skill and physical gifts are rare, and the type of toolbox of which executives dream.

He is a textbook case of high-risk, high-reward player; however, his performance at the scouting combine went along to proving his back injury had healed completely. Playing against tougher competition, where McQueen will be forced to develop his ability to protect himself, the puck control and ability to create offense against bigger bodies will be important. If developed without setback, he could become a two-way force in the NHL for years to come.

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7. Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)

Desnoyers might go a lot higher than where I have him, because he could be one of the best two-way players in the draft. Described as a “coach’s dream” because of his ability to take an offensive or checking assignment and execute consistently. He makes smart, simple plays, provides a physical presence on the forecheck and generally agitates and makes life difficult on defenders.

He projects to be a quality second-line center with a decent chance of becoming a first-line player. He’s cerebral, with quick hands and playmaking ability. He’s not flashy, but he’s consistently effective and makes intelligent plays with the puck.

Executives love hearing the word “reliable” from scouts, and that word is perfect to describe Desnoyers. He’s at his best when he’s in pressure-packed games because he finds a way to make the necessary plays to win. Many scouts believe he will be a leader in the NHL, with solid play on both sides of the puck, in all situations.

As one scouting director described “he’s the type of player you win with.” Some have quietly compared him to Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews, who are lofty comparisons, to say the very least.

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8. Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City (WHL)

Smith is a big, physical defenseman with untapped offensive ability and is the consensus second-best defender in the draft class behind Schaefer.

He possesses all the qualities of a top-four matchup guy. He defends the rush well, closes gaps and steers the play in transition, making him one of the best neutral-zone, transition defenders in the class. Given the importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a real chance to the guy coaches rely upon to play heavy minutes against the best players.

His blend of skating, size and poise with an offensive game that progressed positively as the season wore on makes me a believer that there is more to give, and playing at Penn State next season should help it along.

Smith stands 6-3, and executives love the simplicity of his game, reading pressure, disrupting plays and making effective passes to exit the zone. He lacks explosive skating, and the consistent creativity required to be a quality offensive contributor at the NHL level, but his reads are there to be a plus transition player and join the rush as a support player.

Smith’s development from here will be about using his excellent mobility to prevent rush offense and becoming a more consistent offensive threat with better puck management. If Smith can drive play on both sides of the puck in transition and become a power-play threat, there’s a real chance he becomes a No. 2 defender at the NHL level.

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9. Jake O’Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)

Deceptive and incredibly smooth, O’Brien projects to be a point-producing, top-six center with a chance to become a top-line center. The right-handed pivot is one of the best playmakers in the draft, creating high-danger chances with regularity; for my money, he is the best pure creator in the draft.

He consistently manipulates defenders, distributes the puck on the forehand and backhand and uses fakes that send turn defenders and goalies into pretzels. The development will come from simplifying offensive plays to eliminate turnovers caused by holding the puck for too long.

O’Brien’s shot is going to be a necessary development area if his passing is to be an elite threat in the NHL. There is risk here, because he’s slighter than other players available at the center position, but he has room to fill out over the next few years. O’Brien’s elite playmaking skills will be that much more valuable if he can add a speed gear and increase his shooting threat.

He’s two or three years away from playing an impactful role in the NHL, and patience could be the key to O’Brien reaching his top-line ceiling. If he does, he’s going to be an elite power-play quarterback and offensive driver.

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10. Victor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Eklund projects as a top-six forward with a good chance of becoming a top-line contributor. There’s a distinct possibility he falls out of the top 10 this week, which would mean extreme value for anyone who selects him. Despite concerns about his size — he’s 5-11, 161 pounds — Eklund’s style of play is very translatable to the NHL. He plays a lot bigger than his measurements suggest, and there is room to add strength. Should he grow, which has happened to other prospects in the past, Eklund’s projection becomes more confident as a 70-point producer with a high-end motor and excellent forechecking capability.

Eklund is excellent in transition and attacks defenders with speed and fearlessness, darting to the inside, and positioning his body to win or protect pucks. His smaller size has forced him to learn how to protect the puck with excellent body positioning. If he develops a bigger, stronger frame, those skills will make him even more difficult to defend in the offensive zone.

His off-puck play is mature, and will quickly earn the trust of NHL coaches. Eklund has the potential to be a difference-maker in a second-line role, and his blend of hard-nosed play with soft skill should translate more seamlessly than other players.

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11. Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)

Bear is the type of player that a team looking for high-end instincts and playmaking covet. Before a season-ending injury in March, Bear was one of the CHL’s most dangerous offensive players and a reliable defensive forward. He’s versatile, in that he plays center and the wing, and projects as a 65- to 75-point, second-line player, most likely on the wing.

He’s a quality playmaker using different passes to create advantages in dangerous areas. His ability to manipulate defenders and create space for teammates while pulling coverage towards him should translate well in the NHL. He’s got good hands in tight spaces, which make him a threat around the net, and is one of the best offensive facilitators in the draft class.

On top of his offensive gifts, Bear’s defensive play makes him a quality two-way player. His stick positioning allows him to disrupt passes, and he’s a tenacious forechecker who tracks well on the backcheck and finishes hits. His skating posture needs to be more upright to allow him to develop a more explosive stride to take advantage of his offensive skills in transition, but the instincts and execution of plays already exist.

Bear is a good mix of soft and hard skill with projectable traits on both sides of the puck, and he is the type of player who should thrive in a matchup role while contributing offensively.

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12. Radim Mrtka, D, Seattle (WHL)

A 6-6, right-handed defenseman with decent mobility who plays in all situations has scouts very excited, and he could be the second defenseman drafted on Friday. He’s very difficult to get around, routinely thwarting attackers in their tracks and killing plays. He projects as a top-four, shutdown defenseman because of his excellent stick work, mobility and transition defense. Mrtka uses his mobility to escape pressure, activate in the rush and make quality passes to the middle of the ice.

Mrtka should develop into a strong transition defender, a reliable penalty killer and efficient puck mover. He shoots the puck hard and could become more of a scoring threat if he can pick his spots to get pucks through. While everything flowed through him in Seattle, there are well-placed concerns about his lack of offense.

His size and physicality give him the tools to develop into a minute-munching, shutdown defender if his mobility continues to progress. His late birthday gives him lots of development runway to refine his skating, offensive playmaking, and physicality in all areas of the ice.

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13. Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

A Swiss Army knife type of player who will be most effective on the wing because of his strong wall play, Martin projects as a middle-six forward capable of scoring 20 goals routinely, with upside as a second-line forward.

He’s a wrecking ball that will bring value in all three zones, on and off the puck. Martin has scouts raving about him after an excellent performance at the IIHF under-18 championship, with many opining that he could go very early in the first round. He’s a workhorse without an off switch, who brings a blend of physicality and hard skill. He’s a nightmare to contain with his brute strength, and forces defenders into precarious positions with good speed and willingness to make “winning” plays.

Martin finds ways to get involved physically if he doesn’t have his “A” game offensively, and executives love that. If Martin’s scoring doesn’t translate, he’ll be a valuable third-line pest.

Several teams mentioned how impressive Martin was during interviews at the combine. Combine an attractive personality with the hard-nosed style, and it forms a rare combination that is valuable to many scouts who believe he’s the type of player teams need to win in the playoffs. Surely, his mention of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett as a role model grabbed attention. He will likely be long gone by the early teens — but that does not devalue the players who will be selected after him.

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14. Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

Carbonneau possesses an offensive toolbox that teams covet, including powerful skating and eye-popping creativity. He projects as a second-line scoring forward with significant variance and is likely to end up as a middle-six player who thrives against secondary matchups. Carbonneau can drive offense with his playmaking and shooting ability and plays a well-rounded offensive game that includes playing through contact, excellent puckhandling skills and above-average skating.

As is the case with any player who possess incredible upside, there is inherent risk. He has a physically mature body (6-1, 191 pounds), and will need to adjust to the speed of the professional game. He thrives when given time and space, and his growth will come from learning to simplify his offensive play and make better decisions with the puck. There are tools to become a very effective power forward in the NHL who can score 25 goals if he adds a cerebral component to his game.

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15. Lynden Lakovic, F, Moose Jaw (WHL)

The 6-4 left winger has translatable scoring ability, and excellent speed for his size. With room to fill out his frame, Lakovic is an attractive prospect.

He attacks with linear crossovers using his big frame to protect the puck, and he makes plays using good deception. He has the potential to be a dual-threat winger at the NHL level if his passing translates the way many believe his shooting will. Lakovic projects to be a middle-six winger with fair confidence because of his scoring ability, speed and size, but there is a chance he becomes a second-line scoring threat.

Lakovic’s development will come on the physical side. While he is supremely skilled, he needs to lean on defenders and force his way to middle ice to take advantage of his quick hands and shot. If he does, he becomes a significantly more dangerous player, as he’ll be a threat in transition and off the cycle. That is certainly a developable skill that translates to any level, and combined with quality offensive instincts and skill, could see Lakovic become a dual-threat, 65-point winger.

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16. Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)

The 6-2 defender projects to become a second-pair blueliner that excels in transition. He is one of the best neutral-zone defenders and puck movers in the draft, who steadily improved as a true freshman in the NCAA. His puck retrievals, breakout passes and offensive-zone passes consistently put his team in more advantageous attacking positions. Being a right-handed defender with excellent mobility and an easily translatable game makes Hensler a very attractive prospect in this class.

The are concerns among NHL scouts related to Hensler’s offensive abilities and how he might fare in the NHL. However, Hensler showed flashes in the back half of the NCAA season, drawing defenders in and making slick plays for high-danger scoring opportunities. He’s unlikely to become a 60-point defender, but 35-45 points as a steady transition defender who plays a shutdown role seems to be the appropriate projection.

His NHL-ready frame is a plus, and will only improve throughout his collegiate career, which is likely to be another two seasons.

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17. Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)

Cootes is likely to be the first center taken in the back half of the first round and will be a target for teams looking for a two-way, high-motor center. He lacks explosive offense, but with some development of his shooting mechanics, he could become a 60-point, two-way center. Scouts love how consistently he moves his feet throughout his shifts, his drive to play through the middle of the ice and his ability to create advantages for himself with his skating and compete level.

His ability to create space for his teammates and move the puck to advantageous areas of the ice is highly translatable. He’s proactive with his contact, moves the puck to the middle of the ice and is reliable on both sides of the puck, in every area of the ice.

A strong skater and leader, his floor is likely a third-line checking center, but the potential for him to become a two-way, second-line center should be attractive to teams who are willing to bet on offensive development.

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18. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)

There’s a lot to love about Reid’s game — and a lot of varying opinions. Some scouts see him as a top-15 pick, others see him as a mid-20s pick, and it all hinges on their belief in his offensive game. Reid is a play driver from the back end with excellent puck-moving skills and excellent skating. He flashes high-end offensive ability in the form of setups and moving to find and create passing lanes to high-danger areas; however, his shot will need to become more of a threat to avoid his distribution being neutralized in the NHL.

In transition, he’s one of the best on both sides of the puck. His smooth puck retrievals — where he constantly shoulder checks and scans to avoid pressure — led to efficient breakouts. When under duress, he uses elite edgework to escape and shake pressure, following with a quick outlet pass to beat the forecheck.

The consensus belief is that he’s a middle-pairing, transition defender who can turn into a bona fide No. 3 if he develops his offense and grows an inch or two; currently he’s listed at 5-11.

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19. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

There’s a very real chance that Aitcheson is drafted near the top 10 given the type of game he plays and the thirst among NHL teams for bite on the back end.

His projection as a No. 4/5 defender sees him below other players with higher upside. Aitcheson plays with all kinds of truculence and aggression, while possessing an aura of confidence on and off the puck. He’s got all the makings of being a complete menace who plays tough minutes as a No. 4 defender.

Whether it is a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson plays the same rough style, and is unafraid of lowering the boom on opponents. He needs to pick his spots better to avoid unnecessary penalties, but he’s the type of player that requires opponents to be aware when he’s on the ice. Scouts see him as hard-nosed, two-way defender with significant bite who can be a momentum-shifter with his physical presence.

He needs development time, as his skating and playmaking are very raw, but the competitive attributes and his development curve this season are very promising. Aitcheson’s offensive involvement developed as the season progressed, rotating with his teammates, diving down towards the high-danger area and becoming more dangerous with open ice.

He’s likely two or three years away from being ready to step in. But when he does, he’s exactly the type of defender every coach and GM want on their team.

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20. Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)

The two-way center brings an excellent mix of hockey sense, playmaking and creativity to be a middle-six contributor capable of consistently producing 60 points. He lacks elite skating, but his combine results raised eyebrows — tying Frondell for tops in VO2 max. While that isn’t indictive of NHL success, it shows a particular dedication to conditioning, and those in NHL circles pay attention to those results.

Reschny is smaller — 5-10, 183 pounds — and relies on his cerebral approach and excellent passing abilities to create advantage all over the ice. He processes the game better than many in the draft class, allowing him to manage pressure and put himself in better puck-protection positions.

Defensively, Reschny’s instincts result in positionally sound play, regularly playing above the puck, disrupting passes, and communicating assignment switches. He’s got the potential to be a great two-way complementary center that creates offense without separating speed. His reads will almost surely see him play a penalty-killing role and someone who is relied upon when his team is holding a lead.

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21. Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)

Kindel is a scoring machine. Following a 60-point rookie campaign in the WHL in 2023-24, he vaulted into elite status this season, finishing seventh in overall scoring, and was excellent at even strength.

Though undersized at 5-10, 176 pounds, Kindel blends pace, vision and quality instincts, and he projects to be a middle-six winger with two-way ability. Kindel’s motor is relentless, which makes up for his lack of speed, and enables him to weave through traffic and execute give-and-go’s with ease. A dual-threat attacker, he pairs an accurate shot with dangerous passing ability. His elite hockey sense allows him to consistently outsmart opponents and set teammates up with creative plays in dangerous areas with time and space, while playing positionally sound hockey off the puck.

Defensively and on the forecheck, Kindel leverages his intelligence, anticipation and effort to win battles despite size disadvantages. He’ll need to refine and improve his skating posture and puck control, while adding another speed gear to succeed in the NHL.

While the potential exists for Kindel to a top-six NHL player, he is more likely to find himself in the middle-six as a complementary piece.

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22. Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)

Potter is a dynamic skater who is the fastest straight-line skater in the draft class, and his explosive mobility ranks among the draft’s best. Making an uncommon jump from the NTDP’s under-17 team straight to NCAA play, Potter displayed elite acceleration and agility, effortlessly shifting from stride to crossover and cutting sharply through defenders. Initially reliant on raw skill, Potter often avoided physical battles and forced “hope plays,” limiting his effectiveness in the first half of the NCAA season.

Potter’s evolution in the second half of the season elevated his game dramatically, and it was impossible not to notice. He embraced defensive responsibilities, improved his physical play despite his 5-10 frame, won puck battles and filled lanes on the backcheck. Potter’s positional play improved, and his off-puck play improved as a result.

The added defensive dimension complements his offensive talents, elevating his floor to a bottom-six checker, while his upside is very high as a top-six forward because of his steep development curve. Development of his transition play and learning to use his explosive skating and accurate shot while changing gears will make him a more dangerous offensive threat.

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23. Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)

Spence projects with confidence as a high-energy, two-way winger suited perfectly for a Stanley Cup contender’s third line. He possess a relentless motor, physical tenacity, and professional defensive habits. There are well-placed concerns that his game lacks a true dynamic offensive element, but the current form of his game easily translates to NHL, with a higher floor than other players in this area of the class.

At his best, Spence is a disruptive force, ferocious on the forecheck, relentless on the wall and defensively reliable. He thrives alongside skilled teammates, creating space through with his effort, and the ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities in dangerous areas of the ice. Scouts like Spence’s game-changing impact, particularity his forechecking, success in puck battles and ability to draw penalties.

His offensive growth plateaued this season and has tempered expectations about his ceiling. His projection as a third-line winger with a bottom-six floor is related to that scoring plateau. If Spence can assert physical dominance, playmaking consistency and see an uptick in scoring, there is a chance he becomes a secondary contributor in the middle six. Regardless, Spence’s blend of competitiveness, professional details and defensive reliability makes him a solid bet to become a key commentary piece on a contender who likely excels as the game gets more physical.

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24. Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George (WHL)

Ravensbergen is the clear-cut top goaltender prospect in this draft. He projects a composed, confident demeanor, with a confident projection as a starting NHL goaltender who can handle a significant workload.

At 6-foot-5, he leverages size, elite anticipation and crisp lateral agility, consistently positioning himself perfectly to deny shooters without unnecessary flash. He tracks the puck a level above his peers, which allows him to confidently challenge shooters and cut angles effectively. He is particularly vulnerable through the five-hole, which isn’t atypical for large goalies who hover sticks above the ice. As he develops and refines his technique, this weakness should be corrected long before he reaches the NHL.

A reliable backstop for Prince George, Ravensbergen’s .901 save percentage stands out even more when considering the high-danger chances he regularly faced. His rebound control is well above average, and he has an above-average glove hand. He regularly has his blocker angled well, enabling him to direct shots safely away from danger.

It is likely that Ravensbergen becomes a platoon starter until his mid-20s, when he is capable of become a full-time NHL starter who plays 60-65 games per season.

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25. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)

Fiddler is one of the draft’s most intriguing defenders with his blend of size (6-4), mobility and untapped upside.

With NHL family history (Vernon Fiddler is his father), he performed well on the international stage, leaving scouts and executives believing that his defensive-zone dominance and transition skill will make the NHL transition easier. Fiddler’s defensive toolkit stands out. His mobility lends itself to tight gap control, balanced pivots and high-quality neutral-zone defense. Physically imposing, he consistently disrupts opposing attacks, maintains strong body positioning, and proactively eliminates threats away from the puck while staying positionally sound.

Defense is his clear calling card, but Fiddler flashes creativity on offense. He manipulates defenders with fakes, executes difficult breakout passes under pressure, and flashes high-end puck skills on occasion.

To reach his ceiling of a second-pairing defenseman, Fiddler will need to refine his reads, timing, and decision-making to limit miscues with the puck. He’ll likely require patience over the next few years, but with continued development in gap control, awareness and physical engagement, he profiles confidently as a reliable second-pair shutdown defender capable of driving play in transition.

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26. Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)

Nesbitt is an intelligent, two-way center whose game is rooted in competitiveness, defensive reliability, and off-puck hockey IQ. He excels defensively by using his 6-4 frame to break up plays with physical engagement and smart stick positioning to pick off pucks. His hockey sense consistently places him in strong positions in all three zones, allowing him to create turnovers and execute quick passes to create dangerous chances off those turnovers.

His offensive upside hinges on his skating, which is a concern. His stiff skating stride and lack of demonstrated flexibility at the combine might limit how much he can improve. Despite flashes of skill, he struggles to maneuver past defenders, and his inconsistent puck handling under pressure often disrupts his playmaking.

Nesbitt showed improvement throughout the season, leveraging his size offensively and initiating more contact more consistently. If these improvements continue, and he’s able to improve his skating stride, he projects confidently as a dependable middle-six center who can anchor a defensive line and support skilled players higher up the lineup.

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27. Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)

One of the most discussed and debated defenders in the draft, Boumedienne projects as a second-pair, two-way defender.

Already known as a brilliant breakout passer with a heavy slap shot and strong stick play, Boumedienne’s defensive game evolved noticeably at Boston University. Buoyed by steadily improving his skating weaknesses, particularly his agility and edge work, he looked the part of a modern shutdown defenseman, specifically in transition. He developed greater stability, enabling more effective gap control and quicker pivots. Proactive reads, strong positioning, physicality and effective disruption of passing lanes allowed his defensive game to blossom.

While his offensive game remains primarily rush-based rather than in the offensive zone, Boumedienne’s willingness to experiment with fakes and deception improved his transition impact significantly. The volatility of his projection remains high, but Boumedienne’s substantial in-season growth, defensive reliability and refined skating offer realistic upside as an effective second-pair, two-way defender at the NHL level who can produce secondary offense.

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28. Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)

One of the most skilled and creative forwards in the draft, and some scouts have him ranked in the late teens because of their belief in his upside.

Lee is a dynamic offensive player who consistently cuts through defensive coverage with elite puckhandling and deceptive passes. His one-timer is one of the best in the draft class. With a full complement of high-end tools, Lee has a rare ability to create offense in tight quarters with limited space, and he stood out amongst his USHL peers. He manipulates defenders and delivers elite passes under pressure. He consistently makes translatable plays like one-touch breakouts, fake receptions, and quick releases in scoring areas. As the season progressed, he showed a willingness to forecheck, battle and apply pressure defensively.

The glaring question is his skating. His stride is stiff and lacks explosiveness. Lee will need major strides in mobility to maximize his offensive toolkit at the NHL level. That being said, if he adds a step or two to pair with his skill, Lee has the skill to become a creative, middle-six playmaker with top-six upside.

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29. Jack Murtagh, F, USNTDP (USHL)

Murtagh emerged as a versatile, energetic winger and cemented himself as the NTDP’s most compelling prospect in a down year.

He plays a relentless style and possesses an explosive stride, thriving in puck battles, consistently leveraging his straight-line speed and physicality to power through opponents and create scoring chances. He owns a strong shot package, including an explosive one-timer, and Murtagh is equally dangerous off the rush. Murtagh’s development as a playmaker elevated his stock in the eyes of scouts. He regularly demonstrated above-average awareness, impressive passing skill to get the puck to the most dangerous areas of the ice. His ability to complement scoring with high-level distribution should continue to develop at the NCAA level at Boston University.

To unlock a clear NHL middle-six ceiling, Murtagh must diversify his transition approach, use teammates more consistently and rely less exclusively on raw speed and power. Even without dynamic creativity, his tenacious style, goal-scoring instincts and improved playmaking project safely to a third-line NHL power forward role.

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30. Bill Zonnon, F, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)

Zonnon is a relentless and detail-oriented two-way forward who has carved out a reputation as one of the CHL’s hardest-working players. With an 83-point breakout campaign in his first full-time season at center, Zonnon combined a high-end motor, raw but effective playmaking and relentless puck pursuit that allowed him to be a play driver in all three zones. He excels on the forecheck, pressuring defenders into rushed decisions, winning battles and moving pucks to teammates in scoring areas.

Offensively, he makes good reads under pressure, threading pucks through tight lanes and consistently puts his team in advantageous positions. His ability to support defensively, facilitate transitions and physically impose himself makes him ideal the type of forward teams want in the playoffs.

His skating remains a limiting factor, and he’ll need to improve his agility and posture to reach his offensive ceiling. If Zonnon can refine his stride and continue to develop his playmaking, he projects as a middle-six driver who blends tenacity and has the makings of a valuable third-liner whom playoff teams covet.

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31. Shane Vansaghi, F, Michigan State (NCAA)

A steady riser as the season progressed, Vansaghi is a tenacious power winger whose physical dominance and competitive fire make him one of the most NHL-ready players in the draft. Many nights, he looked like a man among boys with excellent forechecking, delivering punishing checks to defenders who were retrieving pucks, and bulldozing through contact to establish inside position.

Offensively, Vansaghi showed flashes of legitimate upside, with good puckhandling, a heavy release that caught goaltenders by surprise, and the ability to beat defenders one-on-one. His net-front play and ability to win body position in tight areas shows that he might be an effective net-front player at the NHL level if he can deflect pucks and knock rebounds home.

His skating lacks explosiveness and agility, and will need significant revamp which might be tough given his physical maturity. If he can make improvements to his first few steps, Vansaghi could evolve into a middle-six force who complements skill with relentless physical play.

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32. William Moore, F, USNTDP (USHL)

Moore remains one of the more intriguing upside bets despite a plateau in development over two seasons with the NTDP.

The feeling among scouts is that Moore’s plateau is related to the structure the NTDP plays with, in that it stifles creativity, and I would agree with that assessment. Moore is a skilled forward with strong skating, good puck skill and offensive instincts. He has moments of absolute brilliance, manipulating defenders with crossovers, threading look-off passes and showcasing high-end puck protection.

At his best, Moore combines finesse with power, winning battles along the wall, creating screens and asserting body position to generate offense. It is a quality blend of hard and soft skill. He excels in possession and can command shifts with deceptive movement and slick hands in tight space. The lack of consistency in his play leads to questions about what type of player Moore can be at the NHL level.

A lack of physical strength and assertiveness without the puck lessens his impact more often than not, leading to quiet nights and “invisibility” monikers. If Moore can raise his engagement level and improve strength, there is real second-line potential at the next level. Otherwise, he projects as a versatile third-line forward who can contribute on a second power-play unit and provide complementary offense.

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33. Nathan Behm, F, Kamloops (WHL)

Behm is a dynamic winger with the skill to develop into a middle-six NHL scorer and an outside shot at becoming a second-line scorer. He combines creative playmaking, deceptive shooting, and above-average puck handling to generate offense. He beats defenders by manipulating them and using his reach to pull pucks through traffic. His soft hands allow him to catch pucks effortlessly and execute quick slot passes and shots.

He has an NHL-ready build, but he’ll need to improve pace and engage physically to reach his potential. If he can develop and refine those areas, he projects as a dual-threat offensive forward in a scoring role; without it, he settles into a bottom-six forward. As a player available late in the first round or in the second, he’s a worthwhile swing on upside.

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34. Cameron Schmidt, F, Vancouver (WHL)

The goal scorer is likely to go a lot lower than I have him, but his scoring ability is among the best in the draft class. He possesses elite finishing skill, high-end speed and above-average puck handling.

He scores in a variety of ways: off the rush, through traffic, and on one-timers. He’s difficult to read because he’s deceptive in his movements to find or create space. Despite his 5-7 frame, Schmidt adds a rare physical edge and flashes playmaking quality.

For obvious reasons, scouts and executives question whether or not he can be effective at the NHL level — the numbers suggest he has a legitimate shot if he grows to 5-9. He’s a boom-or-bust pick; if he rounds out his playmaking and utilizes his full offensive toolkit on a consistent basis, Schmidt could become a dynamic second-line scorer and one of the draft’s biggest steals.

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35. Henry Brzustewicz, D, London (OHL)

Brzustewicz is the next prospect from the factory that is the London Knights. The blueliner projects as a steady, mobile transition defender with the potential to grow into a No. 4 or 5 NHL blueliner.

A right-handed shot with a strong defensive foundation, he maintains good gap control, moves the puck very well and supports plays while remaining positionally sound. In an elevated role, his offensive creativity developed dramatically. He jumped into the rush, evaded forecheckers and created scoring chances with quality passes to the slot.

If he continues to develop his confidence and play-driving ability, Brzustewicz could evolve into a reliable second-pairing defender. Without that growth, he still holds value as a depth puck mover with a good defensive foundation.

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36. Cole McKinney, F, USNTDP (USHL)

Not unlike his teammates, McKinney likely had his offense stifled with the program, and there were signs that he has more to give. He projects as a competitive third-line center with above-average two-way play. The NTDP’s leading scorer — and one of the USHL’s most efficient producers — McKinney’s standout attributes include relentless puck pursuit, smart positioning and strong penalty-killing instincts.

Offensively, he thrives off the cycle, supports play with timely passes and quick decisions and is an above-average net-front presence. While his puck handling and shooting limit top six upside, some scouts believe there is more upside as a middle-six player. At a minimum, his motor, defensive value, and play-driving habits give him a clear path to a bottom-six NHL role.

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37. Milton Gästrin, F, MoDo (J20 Nationell)

Gästrin is one of the most well-rounded and translatable two-way centers in the draft, projecting as a reliable third-line NHLer.

He combines high-end defensive instincts, strong off-puck support and a relentless motor to have many scouts believing he’ll be a reliable checking center. His playmaking continues to develop and might give him more offense than currently projected, but he’d likely top out between 30 and 40 points.

Gästrin is a reliable play driver, and coaches will be comfortable playing him in all three zones. While he lacks dynamic offensive upside, his intelligence, versatility, and steady skating development make him a low-risk bet to become an effective bottom-six center.

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38. Václav Nestrašil, F, Muskegon (USHL)

Nestrašil is a high-upside power forward who projects as a top-six NHL winger if his development continues on its current path.

He is a unique blend of above average puck skill and playmaking with size, motor and punishing physical play. He excels with give-and-go’s, attacking off the wall, and creating space in traffic. He consistently moves the puck through carries or passes to the middle of the ice, creating more threatening opportunities.

He is raw and somewhat erratic with his reads and timing; his continued improvement and physical toolkit give him legitimate upside. If he becomes a more consistent threat, he’s a second-line force; if not, his defensive value and intensity still project a role as a physical, bottom-six winger.

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39. Carter Amico, D, USNTDP (USHL)

Amico is a 6-5 right-handed defenseman with the mobility, physicality and defensive instincts to grow into a No. 4/5 NHL blueliner. Injuries are a concern, but when healthy, he kills rushes with aggressive gap control, clears the crease with authority — a trait NHL scouts love — and starts breakouts with a good first pass.

Offensively, he shows flashes of playmaking, but limited reps and inconsistencies (partly due to a knee injury) leave questions about how high the ceiling is. If he stays healthy and continues to develop his transition game at Boston University, Amico has the tools to become a physical, play-driving defender with No. 4 upside.

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40. Jacob Ihs-Wozniak, F, Lulua (J20 Nationell)

Ihs-Wozniak is a goal-scoring machine with one of the best finishing touches in the class. He possesses an arsenal of shot types that are NHL-caliber, has great off-puck instincts and a developing playmaking side. That combination of offensive skills gives him legitimate middle-six scoring upside. He times his movements for rebounds and slot chances very well, making him difficult to tie up. He’s not a play driver, but his frame, scoring touch and offensive instincts make him a good bet to be a complementary player.

To reach his ceiling, Ihs-Wozniak will need to improve his speed, which will improve his play in transition and his play along the wall. His potential as a power-play threat and goal scorer boost his NHL floor to a third-line player.

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41. Eric Nilson, F, Djurgardens IF (J20 Nationell)

Nilson projects as a defensively reliable, bottom-six checking center with penalty-killing value. A fluid skater with a high motor and strong two-way instincts, he consistently supports play in all three zones, eliminates space on the backcheck, and was one of the top defensive forwards at Sweden’s J20 level.

Offensively, he can drive transition play and showed flashes of playmaking and a shot that could develop into a threat. Scouts question his willingness to drive the middle of the ice, given he’ll need to do that to be a two-way player at the NHL level. He’ll need to develop his playmaking and fill out physically to reach his potential. If he can develop those traits and combine them with his sound defensive play, he’ll likely carve out a bottom-six role in the NHL.

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42. Benjamin Kevan, F, Des Moines (USHL)

Kevan is a skilled and speedy winger who projects as a potential middle-six scoring threat if he rounds out his game. A dynamic skater with elite transition ability and flashy puck skill, Kevan creates off the rush with give-and-go’s and creative passes. He uses his speed defensively to pressure puck carriers on the backcheck.

Kevan needs to develop his offensive-zone play to be a more well-rounded offensive threat. If he adds strength and an element of physicality, Kevan could evolve into a two-way, play-driving winger. He’s an upside bet with his skill set, but likely ends up an AHL scorer if he can’t polish his offensive-zone play.

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43. Alexander Zharovsky, F, Tolpar Ufa (MHL)

Zharovsky has some of the best hands in the draft class, without a doubt. He’s an elite puck handler with high-end creativity and offensive instincts that make him one of the most skilled European forwards in the draft.

After a slow start, he exploded for 46 points in 29 MHL games and held his own in KHL playoff action. Zharovsky manipulates defenders to create for both himself and teammates, showing dual-threat potential as a scorer and playmaker. His skating and defensive play need development, but his raw skill ceiling is undeniable.

He is a boom-or-bust winger, but his performance at the KHL level is an indicator that he’s likely to be successful in the NHL. With proper development, he could become a middle-six scorer and power-play threat in the NHL.

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44. Max Pšenička, D, Portland (WHL)

One of the biggest risers in the back half of the season, Pšenička projects as a two-way, shutdown defenseman with the tools to become a reliable No. 4/5 at the NHL level. He brings good speed, physicality and smart defensive reads, consistently forcing dump-ins and battling for position. Offensively, he shows flashes of creativity on breakouts and rush activation, and development in puck control and passing precision will only boost his offensive projection.

His aggressive play and competitiveness make him a playoff-type defender. At 6-4 and 176 pounds, there is more than enough room to fill out his frame, which is likely to make him a strong net-front presence in the NHL. If he continues to develop his offensive game and adds strength, Pšenička has the upside to become a reliable second-pair defender with some grit.

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45. Kurban Limatov, D, MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)

Limatov is a high-upside, boom-or-bust defenseman with second-pair NHL potential. He possesses elite mobility and physical tools, and at 6-3, his explosive skating allows him to evade forecheckers and drive play in transition.

As the season progressed, his defensive reads improved and allowed him to play with more physicality and aggressiveness. Offensively, Limatov is raw and somewhat chaotic, but there are signs of creativity. If he continues to improve his decision-making, he could become a dynamic two-way defender. If not, he might remain a high-minute KHL player, but the NHL upside makes him an intriguing player in the second round.

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46. William Horcoff, F, University of Michigan (NCAA)

The son of former NHLer Shawn Horcoff, William projects as a defensively reliable third-line center with size, strength and strong off-puck instincts. At nearly 6-5, he’s a disruptive force in his own zone, using his range and physicality to pressure puck attackers and cause turnovers.

Offensively, he facilitates with smart passes and uses his size to play with contact and protect the puck. He’ll need to develop his skating from a speed and mobility perspective to grow offensively. If he adds a step with some explosiveness and fills out his frame, Horcoff could become a physically imposing, two-way pivot in a bottom-six NHL role who plays against secondary matchups.

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47. Daniil Prokhorov, F, MHK Dynamo St. Petersburg (MHL)

The best way to describe the 6-5 Prokhorov is a freight train on skates.

A physically dominant winger with middle-six power forward upside, he is one of the most physically imposing players in the draft. He delivers punishing hits, protects the puck well and drives the net with force. His heavy shot and straight-line speed contributed to a 20-goal MHL season, with flashes of puck skill.

He needs to develop his hockey sense, and he seems to get tunnel vision, which limits his playmaking and overall decision-making. If he improves his reads and off-puck awareness, Prokhorov could become a rare, punishing middle-six winger. Without growth, he still has a direct path to a depth NHL role through sheer physicality and size.

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48. Jack Ivankovic, G, Brampton (OHL)

Ivankovic projects as a poised, technically sound platoon starter with the upside to become a No. 1 NHL goalie. Despite standing under 6 feet, he possesses elite skating, excellent positioning and controlled, patient movements that allow him to track and handle chaos with ease.

A standout for Hockey Canada and under-18 gold medalist, he plays bigger than his size, reading screens and staying composed under pressure. Height remains the key concern among teams, but his father is 6-5, so there is hope that Ivankovic grows another couple of inches. If he does, his mental makeup and technical foundation make him a good bet to be one the best goaltenders in the class.

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49. Luca Romano, F, Kitchener (OHL)

A high-speed center with a great motor who projects as a middle-six, two-way forward, Romano has play-driving value in transition. He thrives off the rush, using speed and edge work to carry pucks through zones and create chances while keeping his feet moving.

Defensively, he’s a relentless backchecker with good positioning and strong stickwork. He lacks dynamic offensive creativity, but flashes of playmaking and shooting in stride have me believing there is more to give offensively. If he develops his creativity and learns to use the space he creates with his speed, Romano could evolve into a reliable middle-six center with speed and two-way ability.

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50. Mason West, F, Edina High (USHS-MN)

Without a doubt, the best overall athlete in the draft class. A high school quarterback with legitimate college football potential and a hockey player who could go in the top 50 of the NHL draft does not come around too often.

The 6-6 forward possesses rare mobility, physical tools and intriguing upside. A natural shooter and smooth skater, his production on the Minnesota High School circuit at Edina High was impressive. When he stepped into the USHL, his development hit warp speed.

For obvious reasons, West is very raw as a prospect. He shows flashes of skill, an immovable net-front presence and growing physical engagement. Given his rawness, he will need to develop his puck control, positioning and decision-making. However, he will be able to rely on his QB scanning skills to help develop his decision-making in hockey. With continued development, there is a real chance he becomes a middle-six NHL power forward. The pure raw ability of this elite athlete has executives and scouts very excited.

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51. Jacob Rombach, D, Lincoln (USHL)

Another of the really tall and mobile defensemen in this draft, Rombach has scouts believing in his shutdown ability.

The 6-6½ defender projects as a second-pair shutdown defenseman with elite defensive instincts and good puck retrievals. What separates him from similar defenders is that he handles pressure well. He shoulder checks on retrievals, scans coming up ice, absorbs contact and escapes pressure with smart passes.

He won’t be an offensive contributor, but he could develop into a plus transition player offensively. To reach his ceiling, Rombach needs to improve his skating posture, which will allow him to be more physical. With continued development at the University of Minnesota, he could become a quality shutdown defender in a top-four NHL role.

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52. Eddie Genborg, F, Linkoping HC (J20 Nationell)

Genborg projects as a bottom-six checking winger with a strong chance to play NHL games thanks to his size, physicality and professional details. At 6-2, he’s a relentless forechecker with a great motor, plays a strong cycle game and is excellent defensively. Genborg impressed by earning over 20 SHL games this season and leading Sweden’s J20 league in goal pace, which buoys his NHL projection confidence.

His scoring should translate because it comes via net-front positioning and a good catch-and-release shot. While his offensive ceiling is limited by instincts and average playmaking, his blend of strength, effort and two-way value gives him a clear NHL path as a physical depth forward.

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53. Semyon Frolov, G, MHK Spartak Moskva (MHL)

A steady riser in the rankings, Frolov projects as a 1B platoon goaltender with the potential to push for a larger role.

At 6-3, Frolov blends strong puck tracking and athleticism with smart positioning. He’s calm under pressure, sharp with his save selection and excels when facing high-danger chances. His aggressive play style adds value and could become a strength if developed well.

Splitting time across three MHL teams, he showed adaptability and consistency behind varied defenses and should have little issue adjusting to a KHL role next season. There are some who believe Frolov will go early in the second round, as his size, pure athleticism and demeanor are attractive to teams.

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54. Matthew Gard, F, Red Deer (WHL)

Gard projects as a reliable bottom-six checking center with the motor, size and defensive IQ to earn an NHL role. He excels at pushing attackers to the perimeter, disrupting attacks and forechecking. Gard plays with nonstop energy, combining strength and good body positioning to win battles and create space for his teammates.

While he’s primarily a defensive player, there are signs that further developing his playmaking and speed could increase his offensive output. If his offensive development plateaus, Gard’s high motor, detail-oriented game makes him a strong bet to anchor an NHL fourth line, because he’s exactly the type of player coaches trust in the defensive zone and on the penalty kill.

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55. Ivan Ryabkin, F, Muskegon (USHL)

One of the most polarizing players in the draft class, Ryabkin is a boom-or-bust power forward with middle-six upside. He blends a quick release, creativity and punishing physicality, albeit very inconsistently.

After a slow start in Russia, his move to the USHL reignited his game, where he became a top goal scorer in the second half. He’s a threat off the rush with one-timers and in-tight finishes, and there are flashes of playmaking ability. His inconsistent pace, poor decision-making and undisciplined physicality limit his reliability and NHL potential.

If he can dial in his effort and details, Ryabkin’s unique blend of skill and grit could make him a dangerous NHL scorer. Otherwise, he’s unlikely to be an NHL player, which is why he’s a candidate to fall out of the top two rounds.

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56. Ethan Czata, F, Niagara (OHL)

Czata projects as a bottom-six checking center with strong defensive instincts, penalty-killing value and underrated playmaking ability. Despite a drop in production, his defensive play was impressive, with good positioning, physicality and ability to disrupt plays.

Offensively, he shows flashes of quality passing ability and spatial awareness, especially off the puck. His responsible two-way game and hard skill make him a strong candidate for an NHL depth role, but he’ll need to add some speed and develop his offensive playmaking ability to be anything more than a fourth-line center.

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57. Charlie Trethewey, D, USNTDP (USHL)

Trethewey projects as a No. 4/5 two-way defenseman with a blend of powerful skating, physicality and a heavy shot.

As the season progressed, he improved his scanning, stickwork and breakouts, and he become a steady shutdown presence for the NTDP. He takes away time and space, delivers punishing hits and activates with confidence. The next step is to improve his decision-making and passing when he activates.

As his defensive details and play under pressure continue to develop, Trethewey’s strong physical tool kit gives him legitimate NHL potential as a hard-nosed, second-pair defenseman.

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58. Theo Stockselius, F, Djurgardens (J20 Nationell)

Stockselius projects as a third-line, two-way forward with strong playmaking instincts, hard skill and projectable physical tools. A quality passer with high-end hockey sense, he consistently creates offense with intelligent playmaking and passing.

He led Djurgardens in playoff scoring and became a key contributor for Sweden’s under-18 team. As the season progressed, Stockselius started to physically engage and use his body more effectively, which should only improve as he physically matures.

He is a below-average skater in terms of speed and mechanics, and will likely need to improve that to hit his ceiling as a middle-six contributor. If he does not improve his skating — but can continue compensating with smart positioning and physical play — he’s likely to become a bottom-six contributor in the NHL.

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59. Haoxi (Simon) Wang, D, Oshawa (OHL)

Haoxi Wang is a true project with second-pair NHL upside because he has a rare blend of size (6-6) and elite mobility.

A late arrival to competitive hockey, Wang is still learning the game but shows potential to become two-way defenseman by eliminating space, escaping pressure and skating pucks through transition. OHL competition exposed his rawness as a prospect, with inconsistent reads and turnovers, but he consistently improved his retrievals, breakouts and defensive play.

With significant development, Wang could become a rangy, shutdown defenseman with decent puck-moving ability. He’s a high-risk, high-reward swing who will test any team’s development staff.

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60. L.J. Mooney, F, USNTDP (USHL)

It remains to be seen where the diminutive Mooney will go, but he’s one of my favorites in the draft class. He’s a high-energy winger with explosive speed, quick hands and a motor that doesn’t have an off switch. He’s dynamic off the rush and consistently beats defenders with his speed and puck handling.

Despite concerns about his 5-7 frame and questionable decision-making, he has more separating skills than many in this area. Many smaller players don’t play the defensive side of the puck, but that doesn’t describe Mooney. He’s consistently above the puck, in good positions and far more physically engaged than anyone his size — as well as most who have 5 inches and 25 pounds on him.

The fact that he thrives in chaos makes me believe his hockey sense and decision-making will improve. If he develops his playmaking, Mooney could become a middle-six spark plug with two-way impact who provides complementary scoring.

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61. Hayden Paupanekis, F, Kelowna (WHL)

If a team wants a versatile Swiss Army knife type of player who can fill many roles, this is their guy.

Paupanekis showed two sides this season: shutdown specialist in Spokane, and play driver in Kelowna. A competitive, physical center with NHL-ready defensive detail, Paupanekis consistently shut down opposing top lines. He is not special at anything, but he does everything at an average or better level, and plays a professional style. He stays above the puck, supports his teammates, wins battles and it doesn’t hurt that he’s 6-4. His skating and hands allow him to manage pressure and make plays at speed, showing there is more offensive upside to give.

While his scoring instincts are a work in progress, his speed, strength and penalty-killing potential give him a clear bottom-six NHL projection with room to grow into more.

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62. Tyler Hopkins, F, Kingston (OHL)

Hopkins projects as a bottom-six forward with a projectable defensive game and the motor to be reliable in a checking role. He defends with pro details, remaining patient, engaging physically and disrupting plays both on the forecheck and in transition. With good puck protection skill, he wins many of his puck battles.

Offensively, he makes efficient passes and has the skating to beat other players to pucks. While his offensive upside is limited, his playmaking has some developable traits. Given Hopkins’ high floor as penalty-killing, reliable two-way forward, he’s what scouts call a “safe bet” to reach the NHL as a fourth-line forward.

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63. Peyton Kettles, D, Swift Current (WHL)

At 6-5, Kettles has a good blend of size, physicality and strong defensive instincts. Trusted in all key defensive situations, he uses his long reach and good positioning to close gaps, force attackers to the perimeter and win battles along the boards.

His puck moving is limited, which is likely related to his risk-averse style, but he did show flashes of being able to make plays under pressure. His skating and mobility need to develop for his play under pressure to improve, but he’s one of the youngest players in the draft class and has a longer development path than most. Kettles has the tools to become a dependable, hard-to-play-against blueliner in a No. 4/5 shutdown role.

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64. Kristian Epperson, F, Saginaw (OHL)

Epperson made the most of his second draft-eligible season, earning top-line minutes next to Michael Misa and proving he could drive play on his own. He’s a relentless forechecker who reads the play to time his routes and stifles the breakout.

Epperson has a good blend of above-average playmaking, good hockey sense and a nonstop motor. He creates space, plays connected with his linemates, and supports plays across all three zones. He’ll need to add a step or two to be effective at the NHL level.

While he remains a project, the combination of two-way play, puck-moving skill and hockey sense gives him a shot at carving out a third-line NHL role.

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Honorable mentions

Adam Benak, F, Youngstown (USHL)
Aleksei Medvedev, G, London (OHL)
Conrad Fondrk, F, USNTDP (USHL)
Malte Vass, D, Farjestad (J20 Nationell)