Final 2025 NHL Draft Rankings

1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)

The defenseman for the Erie Otters is widely projected as a future cornerstone No. 1 blueliner for years to come. A dynamic two-way presence, the 6-foot-2 defender boasts effortless skating and elite mobility, allowing him to shut down opponents in any situation while generating offense through quality transition play.

Despite an injury at the IIHF World Junior Championships, where he was expected to play a significant role as a 17-year-old, cutting his season to just 26 games, Schaefer consistently logged over 25 minutes per contest and effectively drove play in his team`s favor.

NHL executives and scouts view him as a future elite NHL defenseman and a foundational piece for a championship-contending roster. Schaefer`s ability to control the game from the blue line, handle tough matchups, and run a power play – combined with strong beliefs in his character and leadership – lead many to think he possesses the tools to become a top-10 defender in the league and wear an alternate or captain`s letter.

2. Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)

Granted exceptional status in the OHL in 2022, Misa delivered one of the most impressive goal-scoring performances in recent memory during the 2024-25 season, netting 62 goals in just 65 games. He is projected to be a top-line forward capable of consistently achieving over 90 points per season in the NHL.

Misa`s offensive instincts are considered elite. He processes the game rapidly and executes plays at top speed. Scouts believe he is NHL-ready and possesses the potential to become an elite top-line center. Without the puck, Misa excels at finding open spaces in defensive coverage and has a knack for performing in clutch situations. His combination of high-end playmaking and goal-scoring ability makes him a perpetual dual threat in the offensive zone.

His two-way game has significantly improved, showing better backchecking, defensive awareness, and commitment to playing a full 200-foot game. Coupled with his explosive speed and offensive firepower, Misa profiles as a foundational player for a franchise.

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

Hagens is projected as a potential top-line center or one of the NHL`s premier second-line centers. He distinguishes himself from Misa with a highly cerebral and efficient style rather than pure dynamism. He maintains a strong work rate, possesses excellent speed and passing ability, which should enable him to effectively drive play at the NHL level. Scouts and executives are particularly impressed by the professional details in his game, such as puck support, winning battles, and defensive awareness, believing these will ease his transition to the NHL while his offensive game continues to develop.

Spending another season at Boston College could help him unlock a more dynamic offensive gear – the one that impressed scouts during his NTDP season (with 102 points) – potentially allowing him to become a top-line NHL center. After playing on one of college hockey`s top lines, Hagens would now be tasked with driving his own line, creating offense through his own playmaking, and handling significant matchup responsibilities.

Hagens has the potential to be a complete package player in the NHL. His understanding of spacing and ability to anticipate plays stands out among his peers. Although he is smaller and slighter than some other prospects, which concerns some teams, he shows flashes reminiscent of Clayton Keller and Jack Hughes in his transition play and creativity.

4. Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)

A big, intelligent forward, Martone presents a dual offensive threat, capable of both scoring himself and setting up teammates. He is projected as a second-line scoring winger likely to see significant power-play time.

His competitive nature makes him an effective agitator as he learns to physically assert himself against opponents. He needs to refine this competitiveness and physicality for increased effectiveness, but he embodies the type of player teams value for his rare combination of offensive talent and competitive drive.

Martone`s ability to score and make plays will make him a challenging player to defend in the NHL. There are concerns regarding Martone`s speed and skating posture. While his speed has improved this season, he needs to add explosiveness to his skating to fully reach his potential.

His unique blend of scoring ability, size, and `hard skills` makes him a highly appealing prospect. While his most confident projection is as a top-six forward, Martone has a legitimate opportunity to become a top-line winger if his skating continues to improve.

5. Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Frondell is a versatile two-way forward comfortable playing both center and right wing. His flexibility is attractive to teams, though many believe his potential is best realized as a winger in the NHL.

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

He has demonstrated play-driving capabilities against men in the Allsvenskan, a trait that has translated well to the NHL for previous prospects. He is projected to produce between 75-85 points per season. His style of play translates effectively and has executives excited about his potential to step into the league within the next 18 months.

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

6. Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)

Described as a `unicorn` due to his combination of size (6-5 center) and the speed and mobility expected from a smaller player, McQueen has been a hot topic throughout the season.

He profiles as a prototypical modern power forward, blending soft skill with physical play. Elite right-handed centers are rare in the NHL, and McQueen`s size and willingness to physically dictate play add undeniable value. He possesses professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL and unique offensive upside that is still developing due to lost playing time from injury during his draft season.

McQueen dominates the cycle game, generates offense on the rush, and uses his physical attributes to control play along the boards and protect the puck. His projection as an elite top-line center is less confident due to limited playing time caused by a back injury. Without the injury, he might be discussed near the top of this draft class, as his combination of skating, skill, and physical gifts is rare and highly coveted by executives.

He is a textbook high-risk, high-reward player; however, his performance at the scouting combine helped demonstrate his back injury had fully healed. Playing against tougher competition, where McQueen will need to develop his ability to protect himself, puck control, and offensive creation against bigger bodies, will be crucial. If he develops without setbacks, he could become a significant two-way force in the NHL for years to come.

7. Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)

Desnoyers might be selected much higher than his current ranking because he could be one of the draft`s best two-way players. Described as a `coach`s dream,` he can take on offensive or checking assignments and execute them consistently. He makes smart, simple plays, provides a physical presence on the forecheck, and generally makes life difficult for defenders by being an effective agitator.

He projects as a quality second-line center with a decent chance of developing into a first-line player. He is cerebral, with quick hands and playmaking ability. While not flashy, he is consistently effective and makes intelligent decisions with the puck.

Executives appreciate scouts using the word `reliable,` and that term perfectly describes Desnoyers. He performs best in high-pressure games because he finds ways to make the plays necessary to win. Many scouts believe he will be an NHL leader, providing solid play on both sides of the puck in all situations.

As one scouting director put it, “he`s the type of player you win with.” Some have quietly drawn comparisons to Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews, which are undoubtedly lofty benchmarks.

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

Smith is a large, physical defenseman with untapped offensive potential and is widely considered the second-best defender in the draft class after Schaefer.

He possesses all the attributes of a top-four matchup defenseman. He excels at defending the rush, closing gaps, and steering play in transition, making him one of the best neutral-zone defenders in the class. Given the importance of transition defense in a shutdown role, Smith has a genuine opportunity to become a player coaches rely on for heavy minutes against opponents` top lines.

His combination of skating, size, and composure, coupled with an offensive game that showed positive progression throughout the season, leads me to believe there is more potential to unlock, and playing at Penn State next season should aid this development.

Standing 6-3, Smith`s game is appreciated by executives for its simplicity: reading pressure, disrupting plays, and making effective passes to exit the zone. He lacks explosive skating and the consistent creativity needed to be a high-end offensive contributor at the NHL level, but his reads suggest he can be a plus transition player and effectively join the rush as a support option.

Smith`s future development will focus on utilizing his excellent mobility to prevent rush opportunities and becoming a more consistent offensive threat with improved puck management. If Smith can drive play effectively on both ends of the ice in transition and become a power-play option, he has a real chance to develop into a No. 2 defenseman at the NHL level.

9. Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)

Deceptive and incredibly smooth, O`Brien is projected as a point-producing, top-six center with the potential to become a top-line player. The right-handed pivot is one of the draft`s premier playmakers, regularly creating high-danger scoring opportunities; in my opinion, he is the best pure offensive creator available.

He consistently manipulates defenders, distributes the puck effectively on both his forehand and backhand, and uses fakes that leave defenders and goaltenders twisted. Development will focus on simplifying offensive plays to minimize turnovers caused by holding the puck for too long.

O`Brien`s shot is an area that will require significant development if his passing is to become an elite threat in the NHL. There is some risk here, as he is slighter than other centers available, but he has room to add strength over the next few years. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills will become even more valuable if he can add speed and increase the threat of his shot.

He is likely two or three years away from making a significant impact in the NHL, and patience will be key to O`Brien reaching his top-line ceiling. If he does, he is poised to be an elite power-play quarterback and offensive catalyst.

10. Victor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Eklund projects as a top-six forward with a strong possibility of becoming a top-line contributor. There`s a distinct chance he might fall outside the top 10 this week, which would represent significant value for any team that selects him. Despite concerns about his size (5-11, 161 pounds), Eklund`s playing style is highly translatable to the NHL. He plays with a tenacity that belies his measurements, and there is room for him to add strength. Should he grow, which has occurred with other prospects, Eklund`s projection becomes more certain as a 70-point producer with a high-end motor and excellent forechecking ability.

Eklund is exceptional in transition and attacks defenders with speed and fearlessness, driving to the inside and positioning his body effectively to win or protect pucks. His smaller size has forced him to master puck protection through excellent body positioning. If he develops a larger, stronger frame, these skills will make him even harder to defend in the offensive zone.

His play away from the puck 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 combination of hard-nosed play and soft skill should translate more smoothly than that of other players.

11. Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)

Bear is the type of player highly coveted by teams seeking high-end instincts and playmaking ability. Before a season-ending injury in March, Bear was one of the CHL`s most dangerous offensive players and a reliable defensive forward. He is versatile, playing both center and wing, and projects as a 65-to-75-point, second-line player, most likely on the wing.

He is a quality playmaker, utilizing various types of passes to create advantages in dangerous areas. His ability to manipulate defenders and generate space for teammates while drawing coverage towards him should translate well to the NHL. He possesses good hands in tight spaces, making him a threat around the net, and is one of the draft class`s best offensive facilitators.

In addition to his offensive talents, Bear`s defensive play makes him a quality two-way player. His stick positioning allows him to disrupt passes, and he is a tenacious forechecker who tracks well on the backcheck and finishes hits. His skating posture needs improvement to allow for a more explosive stride that could better utilize his offensive skills in transition, but his instincts and execution of plays are already present.

Bear offers a good blend of soft and hard skills with projectable traits on both sides of the puck, making him the type of player who should thrive in a matchup role while also contributing offensively.

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 is exceptionally difficult to bypass, routinely stopping attackers in their tracks and ending plays. He projects as a top-four, shutdown defenseman due to his excellent stick work, mobility, and transition defense. Mrtka uses his mobility to evade pressure, join the rush, and make high-quality passes to the middle of the ice.

Mrtka should develop into a strong transition defender, a reliable penalty killer, and an efficient puck mover. He shoots the puck hard and could become more of a scoring threat if he learns to pick his spots to get shots through. While he was a focal point in Seattle, there are valid concerns about his lack of offense.

His size and physicality provide him with the tools to develop into a minute-eating, shutdown defender if his mobility continues to improve. His late birthday offers significant development time to refine his skating, offensive playmaking, and physical engagement across all areas of the ice.

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

A versatile `Swiss Army knife` type of player likely most effective on the wing due to his strong play along the boards, Martin projects as a middle-six forward capable of scoring 20 goals consistently, with potential upside as a second-line forward.

He is a relentless force who brings value in all three zones, both with and without the puck. Martin has garnered significant praise from scouts after an excellent performance at the IIHF Under-18 Championship, leading many to believe he could be selected very early in the first round. He is a workhorse with an unceasing motor, blending physicality with `hard skills.` He is a nightmare to contain due to his brute strength and forces defenders into difficult positions with good speed and a willingness to make `winning` plays.

Martin finds ways to contribute physically even if his offensive game isn`t at its peak, a trait executives appreciate. If his scoring doesn`t fully translate, he will still be a valuable third-line energy player.

Several teams mentioned how impressive Martin was during combine interviews. Combining an appealing personality with his hard-nosed style creates a rare blend that is highly valued by many scouts who believe he`s the type of player needed to win in the playoffs. His mention of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett as a role model undoubtedly caught attention. He is likely to be gone well before the late teens, but this doesn`t diminish the value of players selected after him.

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

Carbonneau possesses an offensive toolkit highly sought after by teams, featuring powerful skating and dazzling creativity. He projects as a second-line scoring forward with significant variability in his ultimate role, likely ending up as a middle-six player who excels against secondary matchups. Carbonneau can drive offense through his playmaking and shooting, and he plays a well-rounded offensive game that includes battling through contact, excellent puckhandling skills, and above-average skating.

As is often the case with players who possess incredible upside, there is inherent risk involved. He has a physically mature build (6-1, 191 pounds) and will need to adapt to the increased speed of the professional game. He thrives when given time and space, and his development will involve learning to simplify his offensive approach and make quicker decisions with the puck. He has the tools to become a very effective power forward in the NHL capable of scoring 25 goals if he adds a more cerebral component to his game.

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

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

He attacks defenders using linear crossovers and his large frame to protect the puck, making plays with good deception. He possesses the potential to be a dual-threat winger at the NHL level if his passing abilities translate as effectively as many believe his shooting will. Lakovic projects with fair confidence as a middle-six winger due to his scoring touch, speed, and size, but there is a chance he could become a second-line scoring threat.

Lakovic`s development will heavily involve his physical game. While highly skilled, he needs to lean on defenders and force his way into the middle of the ice to leverage his quick hands and shot. If he successfully does this, he becomes a significantly more dangerous player, posing a threat both in transition and off the cycle. This is a skill that can certainly be developed and, combined with quality offensive instincts and skill, could see Lakovic evolve into a dual-threat, 65-point winger.

16. Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)

The 6-2 defender is projected to develop into a second-pair blueliner who excels in transition. He stands out as one of the draft`s best neutral-zone defenders and puck movers, steadily improving as a true freshman in the NCAA. His effective puck retrievals, breakout passes, and offensive-zone distributions consistently put his team in advantageous attacking positions. Being a right-handed defenseman with excellent mobility and a game that easily translates makes Hensler a very appealing prospect in this class.

Concerns exist among NHL scouts regarding Hensler`s offensive ceiling and how it might translate to the NHL. However, Hensler showed flashes in the latter half of the NCAA season, drawing defenders in and making slick plays for high-danger scoring opportunities. While unlikely to become a 60-point defenseman, a projection of 35-45 points as a reliable transition defender who also plays a shutdown role seems appropriate.

His NHL-ready frame is a plus and is expected to continue improving throughout his collegiate career, which is likely to span another two seasons.

17. Braeden Cootes, F, Seattle (WHL)

Cootes is likely to be the first center selected in the latter half of the first round and will be a target for teams seeking a high-motor, two-way center. He lacks explosive offensive output presently, but with some development in his shooting mechanics, he could potentially become a 60-point, two-way center. Scouts admire his consistent foot movement throughout shifts, his drive to play through the middle of the ice, and his ability to create advantages for himself through his skating and compete level.

His capacity to create space for teammates and move the puck to advantageous areas is highly translatable. He is proactive in engaging physically, drives the puck towards the middle, and is dependable on both sides of the puck in all areas of the ice.

A strong skater and leader, his likely floor is that of a third-line checking center, but his potential to become a two-way, second-line center should attract teams willing to invest in his offensive development.

18. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)

There`s much to appreciate about Reid`s game, along with a wide range of opinions among scouts. Some see him as a potential top-15 pick, while others view him as a mid-20s selection, with the difference hinging on their confidence in his offensive potential. Reid is a play driver from the back end with excellent puck-moving skills and superb skating. He flashes high-end offensive ability with creative setups and his knack for finding and creating passing lanes to high-danger areas; however, his shot needs to become more of a threat to prevent teams from neutralizing his distribution in the NHL.

In transition, he is one of the best in the class on both sides of the puck. His smooth puck retrievals – where he constantly shoulder checks and scans to avoid pressure – lead to efficient breakouts. When under duress, he utilizes elite edge work to escape pressure, followed by quick outlet passes to beat the forecheck.

The general consensus is that he is a middle-pairing, transition defender who could evolve into a bona fide No. 3 defenseman if he develops his offense and perhaps grows an inch or two; he is currently listed at 5-11.

19. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)

There is a strong possibility that Aitcheson is drafted near the top 10, given his playing style and the NHL teams` demand for physicality on the blue line.

His projection as a No. 4/5 defender places him below players with higher offensive upside. Aitcheson plays with significant competitive intensity and aggression, possessing a confident demeanor both with and without the puck. He has all the makings of becoming a complete force, capable of playing tough minutes as a No. 4 defender.

Whether in a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson maintains the same physical style and is unafraid to deliver hard hits to opponents. He needs to improve his timing to avoid unnecessary penalties, but he is the type of player who forces opponents to be aware of his presence on the ice. Scouts see him as a hard-nosed, two-way defender with notable bite who can be a momentum-shifter with his physical presence.

He requires development time, as his skating and playmaking skills are still raw, but his competitive attributes and developmental progress this season are very promising. Aitcheson`s offensive involvement increased as the season progressed, rotating effectively with teammates, driving towards high-danger areas, and becoming more effective with open ice.

He is likely two or three years away from being ready to step into the NHL. However, when he does, he is exactly the type of defenseman every coach and general manager desires on their team.

20. Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)

The two-way center brings an excellent blend of hockey sense, playmaking, and creativity, positioning him as a middle-six contributor capable of consistently producing 60 points. While he lacks elite skating speed, his impressive combine results – tying Frondell for the top VO2 max score – were noteworthy. Although combine results aren`t solely indicative of NHL success, they demonstrate a dedication to conditioning, which is noticed in NHL circles.

Reschny is smaller at 5-10, 183 pounds, and relies on his cerebral approach and excellent passing abilities to create advantages across the ice. He processes the game better than many in this draft class, enabling him to manage pressure and position himself effectively for puck protection.

Defensively, Reschny`s instincts result in positionally sound play. He regularly plays above the puck, disrupting passes and communicating assignment switches effectively. He has the potential to be a great two-way complementary center who generates offense without needing separating speed. His strong reads mean he will almost certainly play a penalty-killing role and be relied upon when his team is protecting a lead.

21. Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)

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

Despite being undersized at 5-10, 176 pounds, Kindel combines pace, vision, and quality instincts, projecting as a middle-six winger with two-way capability. Kindel`s motor is relentless, compensating for his lack of top speed and enabling him to weave through traffic and execute give-and-go plays 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 when given time and space, all while playing positionally sound hockey off the puck.

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

While the potential for Kindel to become a top-six NHL player exists, he is more likely to settle into a middle-six role as a complementary piece.

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

Potter is a dynamic skater recognized as the fastest straight-line skater in the draft class, with explosive mobility ranking among the draft`s best. Making an unconventional jump from the NTDP`s under-17 team directly to NCAA play, Potter showcased elite acceleration and agility, transitioning seamlessly from stride to crossover and cutting sharply past defenders. Initially relying heavily on raw skill, Potter often avoided physical confrontations and forced low-percentage plays, limiting his effectiveness in the first half of the NCAA season.

Potter`s dramatic evolution in the second half of the season significantly elevated his game. He embraced defensive responsibilities, improved his physical play despite his 5-10 frame, won puck battles, and effectively filled lanes on the backcheck. Potter`s positional play improved, leading to enhanced performance away from the puck.

This added defensive dimension complements his offensive talents, raising his floor to that of a bottom-six checker while his upside remains very high as a top-six forward due to his rapid developmental curve. Further developing his transition play and learning to utilize his explosive skating and accurate shot by changing speeds will make him a more dangerous offensive threat.

23. Malcolm Spence, F, Erie (OHL)

Spence projects with confidence as a high-energy, two-way winger ideally suited for a Stanley Cup contender`s third line. He possesses a relentless motor, physical tenacity, and professional defensive habits. While there are valid concerns that his game lacks a truly dynamic offensive element, the current form of his game translates easily to the NHL, offering a higher floor than many players in this range of the draft.

At his best, Spence is a disruptive force – ferocious on the forecheck, tenacious along the boards, and defensively reliable. He thrives when playing alongside skilled teammates, creating space through his effort and capitalizing on scoring opportunities in dangerous areas. Scouts appreciate Spence`s game-changing impact, particularly his forechecking, success in puck battles, and ability to draw penalties.

His offensive growth plateaued this season, tempering expectations regarding his ceiling. His projection as a third-line winger with a bottom-six floor is tied to this scoring plateau. If Spence can assert physical dominance more consistently, improve his playmaking, and see an uptick in scoring, there`s a chance he could become 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 complementary piece on a contending team, likely excelling as games become more physical.

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

Ravensbergen is the clear-cut top goaltender prospect in this draft. He projects a composed, confident demeanor and is confidently projected as a starting NHL goaltender capable of handling a significant workload.

At 6-foot-5, he effectively uses his size, elite anticipation, and crisp lateral agility, consistently positioning himself perfectly to deny shooters without excessive movement. He tracks the puck at a higher level than his peers, allowing him to confidently challenge shooters and effectively cut down angles. He is somewhat vulnerable through the five-hole, which is not uncommon for large goalies who hold their sticks slightly off the ice. As he develops and refines his technique, this weakness should be corrected well before he reaches the NHL.

A reliable backbone for Prince George, Ravensbergen`s .901 save percentage is even more impressive considering the high volume of high-danger chances he regularly faced. His rebound control is significantly above average, and he possesses an above-average glove hand. He consistently angles his blocker well, directing shots safely away from danger.

It is likely that Ravensbergen will serve as a platoon starter until his mid-20s, when he is expected to become a full-time NHL starter capable of playing 60-65 games per season.

25. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)

Fiddler stands out as one of the draft`s most intriguing defensemen, with his blend of size (6-4), mobility, and untapped offensive potential.

With NHL family history (Vernon Fiddler is his father), he performed well on the international stage, reinforcing scouts` and executives` belief that his defensive-zone dominance and transition skills will ease his NHL transition. Fiddler`s defensive toolkit is notable. His mobility enables 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 remaining positionally sound.

While defense is clearly his primary strength, Fiddler occasionally shows flashes of offensive creativity. He can manipulate defenders with fakes, execute difficult breakout passes under pressure, and display high-end puck skills on occasion.

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

26. Jack Nesbitt, F, Windsor (OHL)

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

His offensive upside is heavily tied to his skating, which remains a concern. His stiff skating stride and lack of demonstrated flexibility at the combine might limit the extent to which he can improve. Despite occasional 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 more effectively offensively and initiating contact more consistently. If these improvements continue and he can refine his skating stride, he projects confidently as a dependable middle-six center capable of anchoring a defensive line and providing support for skilled players higher in the lineup.

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

One of the most frequently discussed and debated defensemen in the draft, Boumedienne is projected as a second-pair, two-way defender.

Already recognized for his brilliant breakout passing, heavy slap shot, and strong stick play, Boumedienne`s defensive game showed noticeable evolution at Boston University. Boosted by steady improvements to his skating weaknesses, particularly agility and edge work, he began to resemble a modern shutdown defenseman, especially 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 flourish.

While his offensive game remains primarily rush-based rather than focused on offensive zone cycles, Boumedienne`s willingness to experiment with fakes and deception significantly improved his impact in transition. 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 capable of contributing secondary offense.

28. Ryker Lee, F, Madison (USHL)

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

Lee is a dynamic offensive player who consistently penetrates defensive coverage with elite puckhandling and deceptive passes. His one-timer is among the best in the draft class. Possessing a full array of high-end tools, Lee has a rare ability to create offense in tight spaces with limited room and stood out among his USHL peers. He manipulates defenders and delivers elite passes under pressure. He consistently makes translatable plays such as one-touch breakouts, fake receptions, and quick releases in scoring areas. As the season progressed, he demonstrated a willingness to forecheck, battle, and apply defensive pressure.

His primary question mark is his skating. His stride is stiff and lacks explosiveness. Lee will require significant improvement in mobility to maximize his offensive toolkit at the NHL level. That said, if he gains a step or two to complement his skill, Lee has the talent to become a creative, middle-six playmaker with top-six potential.

29. Jack Murtagh, F, USNTDP (USHL)

Murtagh emerged as a versatile, energetic winger and solidified his position as the USNTDP`s most compelling prospect in what was considered a down year for the program`s draft class.

He plays a relentless style and possesses an explosive stride, excelling in puck battles, consistently using his straight-line speed and physicality to power through opponents and generate scoring chances. He boasts 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 and 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, involve 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 safely project him into a third-line NHL power forward role.

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

Zonnon is a relentless and detail-oriented two-way forward who has earned a reputation as one of the CHL`s hardest-working players. With an 83-point breakout campaign in his first full season primarily playing center, Zonnon combined a high-end motor, raw but effective playmaking, and relentless puck pursuit that allowed him to drive play 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 smart reads under pressure, threads 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 the ideal type of forward desired by teams in the playoffs.

His skating remains a limiting factor, and he will 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 coveted by playoff teams.

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

A steady riser throughout the season, Vansaghi is a tenacious power winger whose physical dominance and competitive fire make him one of the most NHL-ready players in the draft. On many nights, he appeared to be playing among younger competition, excelling on the forecheck, delivering punishing checks to defenders retrieving pucks, and bulldozing through contact to establish inside position.

Offensively, Vansaghi showed flashes of legitimate upside, with good puckhandling, a heavy release that surprised goaltenders, and the ability to beat defenders one-on-one. His net-front presence and ability to win body position in tight areas suggest he could be an effective net-front player at the NHL level if he can effectively deflect pucks and bury rebounds.

His skating lacks explosiveness and agility and will require significant improvement, which might be challenging given his build.