L’Italien is a big, rangy defenceman who was one of Halifax’s brighter spots in a difficult 6–0 loss. Playing nearly 25 minutes, he handled a heavy workload at even strength, on the penalty kill and on Halifax’s second power-play unit. He retrieved pucks effectively in the defensive zone and consistently moved them out with ease. He showed good composure under pressure, rarely appearing rushed, and generally made smart, simple decisions rather than forcing plays that were not available.
For his size, L’Italien moves well. His pivots were smooth, and his mobility allowed him to defend effectively in space. He used his length particularly well against the rush, extending his stick to disrupt attacks and take away passing or shooting options before they could develop. Offensively, his game was relatively simple but effective, moving pucks quickly and taking what the defence gave him.
Despite the blowout, L’Italien made very few noticeable mistakes. His most significant came following a defensive-zone faceoff, where he was slow to identify and stay with his assignment, allowing his man to get open at the back door for an uncontested tap-in. Moving forward, L’Italien should continue to handle major minutes for Halifax. His combination of size, mobility, reach, composure and defensive reliability gives him an intriguing foundation, and based on this viewing, he looks like a potential first-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft.
Mares is a massive forward who was at his best in board and corner battles, where his 6’6”, 231-pound frame and long reach made him difficult to separate from the puck. He protected possession well along the walls and played a responsible defensive-zone game, using his reach effectively to take away space and disrupt opposing players.
Mares lined up on the wing and had a relatively limited offensive impact. His feet looked heavy, particularly on his first few steps, and he lacked acceleration when trying to separate from defenders or close space. He struggled to create high-danger opportunities and, despite possessing a major size advantage, did not use it consistently to work off the walls or drive into the middle of the ice and net-front areas. At this stage, I also do not see much natural playmaking in his game, as he rarely created offense for himself or his linemates.
Moving forward, Mares should continue to push for a larger role in Rimouski’s top six. His combination of size, reach and strength gives him intriguing upside, but becoming more assertive offensively and improving his pace will be important if he is going to establish himself as a legitimate early-round NHL Draft prospect.
Despite recent discussions and narratives, I still firmly believe DuPont is the 1st overall pick, and quite frankly it’s not very close.
DuPont’s offensive upside and ability is a very evident trait, he is tremendous at creating space and open lanes, not just for himself but also his teammates, he’s able to force multiple defenders on him at once and create opportunities before they close in. Offensively he can essentially do it all, but what impresses me the most is his growth in other areas of the game, all while maintaining such a high level of offence, he has developed so much defensively in the last year, he is not out of position nearly as much, corrects himself much faster, and uses his skating to close on players.
2 – Nazar Privalov
Privalov is an absolute force of a player, a player that any team would be ecstatic to have on their team.
After torching the MHL last season with 30 goals, he looks to perform and prove himself in a pro environment, the KHL will undoubtedly test him, but I believe he is more than up for the challenge. At 6’4, he plays a very heavy game, and looks to use his size to his advantage whenever he can, he has a very impressive skating ability for his size, something that interests me so much is how he plays like a small forward, he is always open, always able to separate from defenders and find himself wide open for an opportunity, he plays with so much energy, tenacity and personality, traits that bigger forwards like himself lack very often.
3 – Sergei Skvortsov
Skvortsov is such an interesting player to me, probably the most intriguing in this year’s draft.
He possesses an elite skating ability, his speed and edgework combine for incredible movement, and he is often able to blow past defenders with ease. His shot is very unique, the timing and speed of the release is extremely unpredictable to read, the shot itself isn’t necessarily fast or hard, but he is able to throw the opposition off so much, and the accuracy is definitely there. I wouldn’t say he shy’s away from physicality, but he does struggle with it, a lot at times, will need to gain some strength this season. Its difficult to pinpoint a clear player comparison, but I see a lot Travis Konecny, a flashier version.
4 – Jonah Neuenschwander
Neuenschwander already has an incredible resume, has played at so many levels, and has impressed at every single one.
I believe he is the most well rounded forward in this draft so far, I really like so many aspects of his game. He has a very strong, accurate shot, uses his size well, sturdy with the puck, good vision and playmaking ability, and is another large player that can skate extremely well for his size.
5 – Milan Sundstrom
Another very good all-around player and is one of the safer bets in this draft.
Sundstrom has the ability to completely take over a game, from his strong playmaking ability to frequent speed bursts, and the ability to find the back of the net from anywhere. There are two things for me that are limiting him to 5 as of now, his compete level, and upper body movement, I find it’s a little slow and choppy right now, he needs to get to pucks quicker, and his compete level can fade at times.
6 – Brock England
Speed.
Brock England is the fastest player in this draft, everything he does, every aspect of his game revolves around his speed. He is relentless on the forecheck, and is underrated physically, especially for his size. He’s not super small, but he is very lean, not a player you would expect to be first into the board battle. He is very good at reading and forcing plays and can make a quick pass or use his shot, which you guessed it, is very fast.
7 – Carter Meyer
Meyer has game-breaking ability, a must-watch for this year’s draft.
He possesses one of, if not the best shot in this draft, and uses it very often. As good as his shot is, he has much more than that in his bag. He is a great playmaker and plays a smart brand of hockey. I think his season in the QMJHL may shoot him up to my top 3 conversation, but as of right now, I need to see more, so he lands at 7 on my list.
8 – Andrei Pustovoy
Another player that can find the back of the net with ease.
Although I do not think he has the best shot in the draft, he is the best pure goal scorer, he is able to score from anywhere, can snipe from the point on a powerplay, and can find loose pucks and easy tap ins. A concern I have that is the reasoning for 8th is his overall game, he is somewhat one dimensional right now, need to see more playmaking, quicker skating and edgework, as well as more on the defensive side.
9 – Petr Tomek
I am more impressed with Tomek every time I watch him. If I had to choose a player that will climb the ranks this year, it’s Petr Tomek.
Similar to Brock England, his game is heavily revolved around his skating ability, he is such a fun player to watch. He plays with so much energy and effort, loves to shoot the puck, has a quick, snappy release, he is not afraid of physicality, takes a hit and pops right back up to make a play. He both forechecks and backchecks very hard, you are not safe from him anywhere on the ice.
10 – Dima Zhilkin
Relentless is a huge buzzword for Dima Zhilkin.
He displays so much drive and effort into every single shift, probably the most frustrating player to play against in this draft. He is dangerous from anywhere on the ice as well, has incredible vision and sees plays before most, also has a strong shot, he is another player to watch for in the rankings this year, could easily shoot up to my top 5.
11 – Alexis Joseph
Joseph has been frustrating for me to watch so far, there are times in a game where I see a clear top 3 player in this draft, has an extremely dangerous shot, power and accuracy is evident, he can use his power to go around and through players, and also has very good vision. The problem is, there are huge chunks in a game where you don’t see any of it. He will sometimes be completely checked out and non-effective, often times in the biggest games, which worries me even more.
12 – Jaxon Jacobson
Jacobson is arguably the best playmaker in the draft, he has incredible vision, is 2 steps ahead of everyone on the ice and can create a scoring opportunity out of nothing. He is able to make passes from any situation, can make the first pass into the zone, from the neutral, on the powerplay, he is always dangerous and forces defenders to overthink the play, often leading to open teammates.
13 – Timothy Kazda
Kazda loves to shoot the puck, possesses a very dangerous one timer, and is a threat at all areas of the ice. He is a good skater, he plays an awkward but efficient style and pace of the game, often doesn’t look like he’s putting in much effort, but ultimately ends up in a perfect spot for a scoring chance.
14 – Sammy Nelson
Nelson is a player that I wouldn’t say has one standout attribute, but you can’t find many areas concerning about his game either. He plays a fast game, is always moving and tough to contain, he has it all, he can shoot, very good at finding open lanes for cross ice passes, both receiving and dishing, and is all around just a very hard-working player.
15 – Levi Harper
One of my favorite players to watch in this draft, he is and will more than likely remain underrated all year. Harper is an incredible skater, can effortlessly walk the blue line and creates space for himself with ease, he has a very unpredictable and accurate shot from the point, and will wait for the most unexpected time before firing on net, which leads to goals, redirections or a broken play that creates a scoring chance.
16 – Jaakko Wycisk
He is a very intriguing player to watch, can create a highlight reel from nothing, has incredible puck skills, uses his reach to dance by defenders and makes it difficult to read his moves. Often draws a lot of attention to himself, which opens up opportunities for his line mates, and that paired with his elite vision, consistently creates so many scoring chances.
17 – Kohyn Eshkawkogan
Like Harper, he is a magician on the blueline, incredible skating ability and can find an open gap or lane in a split second and make you pay, loves using his shot from any angle so is always dangerous. He is an offensive force, but I would also say he is safer than the usual smaller, offensive defensemen, he rarely tries to force a play, and his elite skating is in more of spontaneous bursts than consistent, he often plays a relaxed and calm style, which helps out his defensive side.
18 – Bosse Meijer
Not many negatives you could point out in his game, Meijer plays a smart, reliable game. He uses his hockey IQ in many ways, you may not always see a highlight reel play, but he is always in the right spot, has an accurate shot, is able to find players for cross ice, back door tap ins and also works well behind the net, one of those players that is just strong in almost every area of the game.
19 – Schaefer Gordon Carroll
An electric player, another player in this draft that you just hate to play against. He plays a very fast game, hard and heavy on the forecheck at all times, extremely agile which makes him hard to shake off, and then very difficult to take off the puck. He plays a style that can go anywhere in the lineup, has the skill for a top 6 role, and has the motor and IQ for a bottom 6, more physical and defensive role.
20 – Brock Cripps
I may not be as high on him as others, but the offensive capabilities are undeniable. He is an elite skater, is nonstop moving, very hard to defend and contain, and has very good vision. He dictates the ice from the blueline and can thread the needle with passes through sticks and bodies. My concerns are his size, is his edgework and skating ability enough to make his 5’10, 165lb frame a non issue?
The consensus first overall pick was dominant at the recent Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Posting an impressive eight points in five games from the blue line, Landon DuPont demonstrated that his game extends far beyond raw puck skills.
Built on an elite skating foundation, he uses his edges seamlessly to shake defenders, create space, and set up high-danger scoring chances with top-tier playmaking vision.
Defensively, his quickness allows him to close gaps rapidly and clog shooting lanes, making high-quality chances hard to come by when he’s on the ice.
As he transitions to the NCAA with Michigan, the main question is how his 6’0”, 190-pound frame will adjust to the added physicality.
But if his Hlinka performance was any indication, he remains the frontrunner to go number one overall.
We start off our 2027 NHL Draft Rankings in partnership with @DraftProHockey with Landon DuPont.
The consensus first overall pick was dominant at the recent Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Posting an impressive eight points in five games from the blue line, Landon DuPont demonstrated that… pic.twitter.com/PUoNwjtusY
While the first pick is relatively straightforward, the board really opens up at second overall, and that is where I have Jonah Neuenschwander.
Though still raw and continuing to fill out his 6’3” frame, the combination of size, shot, and strong two-way play is hard to ignore.
He has been a consistent standout across international play, anchoring top lines for Switzerland at the WJC, U18, and Hlinka Gretzky tournaments even as an underager.
Although his pro stint in the Swiss NL may be non-traditional, his high-end toolkit, defensive maturity, and 6’3” frame are why you bet on him at pick two.
While the first pick is relatively straightforward, the board really opens up at second overall, and that is where I have Jonah Neuenschwander.
Though still raw and continuing to fill out his 6’3” frame, the combination of size, shot, and strong two-way play is hard to ignore.… pic.twitter.com/zrXldAWxv5
3. Nazar Privalov (6’4″ | 227lbs | C/LW | Krasnaya Armiya Moskva | Russia)
The Russian goal-scoring pest who lit up the MHL this season, racking up 30 goals and 19 assists in 51 games, ranks third overall on my board.
There’s a lot to like about Nazar Privalov, who uses his 6’4″ frame to infiltrate high-danger areas as a true power forward with elite finishing ability and soft hands.
He plays a heavy, physical game, leveraging his size as a relentless forechecker who makes defensemen shake in their skates.
The main drawback to his draft stock is a recently signed four-year extension with CSKA Moscow, delaying his North American debut until the 2030-31 season.
The wait is long, but the upside is worth the top-three risk.
The Russian goal-scoring pest who lit up the MHL this season, racking up 30 goals and 19 assists in 51 games, ranks third overall on my board.
There’s a lot to like about Nazar Privalov, who uses his 6'4" frame to infiltrate high-danger areas as a true power forward with elite… pic.twitter.com/Sto5mmgsne
4. Alexis Joseph (6’5″ | 201lbs | C | Saint John Sea Dogs | Canada)
Alexis Joseph’s draft stock took a hit after a tough Hlinka Gretzky Cup, but one mid-summer tournament shouldn’t drop him out of the top five.
At 6’5″, his size is an immediate standout. When he’s dialled in, he uses that frame to bully his way into tight spaces, unlocking exceptional hands and a high hockey IQ.
That combination gives him the foundation of a dominant offensive weapon, reminiscent of the Tage Thompson-style game he showcased at the U17s.
NHL front offices are always looking for size, and Joseph delivers that in spades.
He needs to round out his overall game, but expect a big bounce-back season with Saint John to put him right back on track.
August NHL Draft Ranking: Alexis Joseph (#4)
Alexis Joseph’s draft stock took a hit after a tough Hlinka Gretzky Cup, but one mid-summer tournament shouldn't drop him out of the top five.
At 6'5", his size is an immediate standout. When he's dialled in, he uses that frame to… pic.twitter.com/bUufxXdcBZ
5. Carter Meyer (6’0″ | 176lbs | C | Québec Remparts | USA)
Meyer has a huge season ahead in Quebec after leaving the USNTDP.
A high-IQ, hardworking playmaker who does a bit of everything, he should see his offensive game flourish in the QMJHL following a solid USHL campaign.
He already has a proven international track record, standing out at the U17 World Hockey Challenge with 10 points in four games and adding five points in five games as an underager at the U18s.
He has plenty to prove this year, but a strong season could easily vault him into the top-three conversation.
NHL Draft Rankings: Carter Meyer (#5)
Meyer has a huge season ahead in Quebec after leaving the USNTDP.
A high-IQ, hardworking playmaker who does a bit of everything, he should see his offensive game flourish in the QMJHL following a solid USHL campaign.
6. Milan Sundström (6’2″ | 198lbs | C | MoDo Hockey U20 | Sweden)
Both Team Sweden and Milan Sundström had similar outings at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, struggling to find consistency while still showing flashes of brilliance.
At times, Sundström looked like an elite playmaker with high-end top speed; whenever the puck was on his stick, you felt something special was coming.
On the flip side, there were noticeable issues with his initial acceleration, paired with instances of forced plays and lackluster effort.
While one mid-summer tournament shouldn’t drastically impact his draft stock, maintaining consistency will be a key storyline to monitor as the season progresses.
The raw tools are undeniably there; his compete level will ultimately determine whether he separates himself from the pack.
NHL Draft Rankings: Milan Sundström (#6)
Both Team Sweden and Milan Sundström had similar outings at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, struggling to find consistency while still showing flashes of brilliance.
7. Brock England (5’11” | 174lbs | C | Seattle Thunderbirds | Canada)
We knew Brock England was fast, like really fast, but what stood out most about his game at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup was his physicality.
At 5’11”, you wouldn’t expect it, but England was relentless with his body checking, making life miserable for anyone facing him in puck battles. Paired with his elite speed, he is an absolute nightmare to play against.
His performance solidified him as a clear top-10 prospect, with a very real chance to push into the top five if his offensive touch carries over into the season.
Throw in his finishing ability, potting four goals at Hlinka, and England has made a compelling case for himself heading into his draft year.
NHL Draft Rankings: Brock England (#7)
We knew Brock England was fast, like really fast, but what stood out most about his game at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup was his physicality.
At 5’11”, you wouldn’t expect it, but England was relentless with his body checking, making life… pic.twitter.com/SbqGJ95eYZ
Dima Zhilkin has built up some serious momentum heading into his draft year.
At the U18s, he put up 7 points in 5 games and, more recently, tied for the Team Canada lead with 4 points over 2 games at the World Junior Summer Showcase.
He boasts a relentless motor and the speed to match it. Paired with strong playmaking and an even better scoring touch, he is a threat whenever he’s on the ice.
The primary concern for Zhilkin looking to play at the next level is his size; listed at only 5’10”, he may simply struggle to sustain his aggressive style against larger competition.
However, with his dog-on-a-bone mentality, he rarely lets anything slow him down, and he’ll be one to watch as the season progresses.
NHL Draft Rankings: Dima Zhilkin (#8)
Dima Zhilkin has built up some serious momentum heading into his draft year.
At the U18s, he put up 7 points in 5 games and, more recently, tied for the Team Canada lead with 4 points over 2 games at the World Junior Summer Showcase.
You’ll hear a lot of buzz around Sergei Skvortsov over the coming months, but he comes with plenty of question marks.
He is going to be one of the biggest wildcard prospects in this draft, a player who could very well challenge for the #1 spot or fall to the back half of the first round.
His game revolves around strong skating and elite edge work to evade defenders, creating space for his high IQ, playmaking, and finishing ability to flourish.
Physicality remains the main concern; at 6’0″ and just 154 lbs, he has a long way to go in terms of adding strength for the NHL level, though doing so without sacrificing his dynamic agility will be a delicate balance.
It’s early, but if Skvortsov can bulk up while maintaining his pace, he could very well push for the top spot come draft day.
NHL Draft Rankings: Sergei Skvortsov (#9)
You’ll hear a lot of buzz around Sergei Skvortsov over the coming months, but he comes with plenty of question marks.
He is going to be one of the biggest wildcard prospects in this draft, a player who could very well challenge for… pic.twitter.com/xIm1rZIhYM
I really like Luca Santala right now, and his development is about to skyrocket in a London program that continues to pump out first-round picks.
He is a mature player who prioritizes the defensive end first, driving a strong transition game which is backed by a 6’2” frame, soft hands, and a nose for the net when needed.
Santala has been tremendous internationally, racking up 6 points over 5 games at both the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and as an underager at the U18s, while also posting a strong 5 points in 4 games at the U17 World Hockey Challenge.
Whether he ultimately projects at center or on the wing remains a question mark, but with a strong year in London, Santala could hear his name called very early on draft night.
NHL Draft Rankings: Luca Santala (#10)
I really like Luca Santala right now, and his development is about to skyrocket in a London program that continues to pump out first-round picks.
He is a mature player who prioritizes the defensive end first, driving a strong transition… pic.twitter.com/iPnQWzVQi2
11. Sammy Nelson (6’2″ | 192lbs | F | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | USA)
One of the oldest players in this 2027 draft class, Nelson has a certain refinement to his game that most players lack.
Much of his game revolves around north-south hockey, where he generates offence off the rush, showcasing his speed, playmaking, and finishing abilities.
He’s also dependable in his own end, serving in a penalty-killing role on the USNTDP and for Team USA at the World Junior Summer Showcase this past July.
An intriguing mix of speed, size, and heart, Nelson will look to make noise at Notre Dame ahead of next year’s draft.
NHL Draft Rankings: Sammy Nelson (#11)
One of the oldest players in this 2027 draft class, Nelson has a certain refinement to his game that most players lack.
Much of his game revolves around north-south hockey, where he generates offence off the rush, showcasing his speed,… pic.twitter.com/yz2qUOnYOv
After earning tournament MVP with 12 points in 7 games, the U18 World Championship sensation comes in at #12 on my list and although I want to put him higher, he’ll need to round out some areas this year in Guelph.
Kazda is a prolific scorer featuring one of the best releases in this draft class. He can beat you from any spot on the ice and has good vision and awareness to complement the scoring touch.
At 6’1”, he’s not afraid to attack the net and frequently drives into danger areas searching for rebounds.
While his top-end speed needs work to help maximize his power-forward style, Kazda has already proven he can dominate his age group; now he’ll need to continue it against OHL competition.
NHL Draft Rankings: Timothy Kazda (#12)
After earning tournament MVP with 12 points in 7 games, the U18 World Championship sensation comes in at #12 on my list and although I want to put him higher, he’ll need to round out some areas this year in Guelph.
13. Brock Cripps (5’10” | 161lbs | RD | Prince Albert Raiders | Canada)
While Landon DuPont captured most of the headlines on the Canadian blue line at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Brock Cripps quietly put together one of the best all-around performances of the tournament.
He is incredibly gifted with the puck, using his elusive edge-work to shake forecheckers, opening up passing lanes, and driving offence from the back end.
Despite a smaller 5’10” frame, Cripps played physical, never shying away from contact, making life miserable for opposing forwards in corner battles.
Drawing comparisons to recent early-round draftees in Tommy Bleyl and Xavier Villeneuve, Cripps is making a compelling case to join the growing list of undersized defensemen who hear their names called in the opening rounds in June.
NHL Draft Rankings: Brock Cripps (#13)
While Landon DuPont captured most of the headlines on the Canadian blue line at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Brock Cripps quietly put together one of the best all-around performances of the tournament.
An emerging prospect at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Jaakko Wycisk excelled by collecting 10 points and tying for the tournament lead.
He does it all: he’s physical, a strong skater, a capable playmaker, highly competitive, and able to finish when needed.
While no single attribute of his jumps off the page, the well-rounded nature of his game makes him a dangerous player and a strong candidate for the first round.
He faces a big upcoming season with Guelph, where he’ll look to secure his day-one draft position following a 43-point, 61-game campaign last year.
NHL Draft Rankings: Jaakko Wycisk (#14)
An emerging prospect at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Jaakko Wycisk excelled by collecting 10 points and tying for the tournament lead.
He does it all: he’s physical, a strong skater, a capable playmaker, highly competitive, and able to finish… pic.twitter.com/EpkPqx8CIi
15. Max Calce (5’11” | 181lbs | C | Adler Mannheim | Germany)
Heralded as the future of German hockey, Max Calce is the most exciting German prospect since the back-to-back draft classes of Tim Stützle and Moritz Seider.
Having already participated in two U18 World Championships and Hlinka Gretzky Cups as an underager, along with being a late injury scratch from last year’s World Junior squad, Calce has shown he can consistently elevate his game against older competition.
As he transitions into a full-time DEL role after splitting time in the DNL U20, we’ll get a clear look at how his game translates against men.
Calce brings a versatile toolkit anchored by a defence-first mindset. He brings a strong first step and poses a real threat in the offensive zone thanks to his crafty hands, sharp edge work, and dependable finishing ability.
He is a key player to watch this season and will have a massive opportunity to elevate his draft stock at the World Juniors in December with Germany.
NHL Draft Rankings: Max Calce (#15)
Heralded as the future of German hockey, Max Calce is the most exciting German prospect since the back-to-back draft classes of Tim Stützle and Moritz Seider.
Having already participated in two U18 World Championships and Hlinka Gretzky Cups… pic.twitter.com/6HqZzkqSIG
16. Petr Tomek (5’10” | 165lbs | C | HC Energie Karlovy Vary | Czechia)
Petr Tomek may not possess elite size, but his skill and relentless motor allow him to play far bigger than his frame.
Captaining Czechia to a U18 bronze medal, he relied on that motor to set the pace for his game, consistently infiltrating high-danger areas.
Once inside those tight spaces, his hands and vision take over, making him just as dangerous slipping passes through narrow seams as he is finishing in close.
The blend of compete and talent has already earned him 51 pro games with HC Energie Karlovy Vary, proving his game holds up against men.
An expected roster spot at the upcoming World Juniors will give another key look at how he stacks up against top NHL talent.
NHL Draft Rankings: Petr Tomek (#16)
Petr Tomek may not possess elite size, but his skill and relentless motor allow him to play far bigger than his frame.
Captaining Czechia to a U18 bronze medal, he relied on that motor to set the pace for his game, consistently infiltrating… pic.twitter.com/qatrvuFlCZ
Small but mighty, there’s a lot to like about Jaxon Jacobson’s game.
Known for his playmaking ability, he has a knack for finding seams before they even open.
Coming off an 85-point season, including 60 assists in 63 games with Brandon in the WHL, Jacobson is poised for another big year.
While finishing isn’t his strongest attribute, he has good hands and tends to score from close range.
His U18 Worlds stint began with him on the bench, but he quickly made an impact, recording three points in three games.
He’ll need to continue developing his skating and physical play if he wants to keep pace at the NHL level.
Jacobson’s IQ and play-driving ability allow him to consistently create offence despite his smaller frame, making him an intriguing player to watch as the season progresses.
NHL Draft Rankings: Jaxon Jacobson (#17)
Small but mighty, there’s a lot to like about Jaxon Jacobson’s game.
Known for his playmaking ability, he has a knack for finding seams before they even open.
18. Tomáš Selič (6’3″ | 198lbs | RW | HC Kometa Brno | Slovakia)
Talk about rising to the moment, Tomáš Selič did it again on the international stage, this time at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
He exploded for four goals and two assists in a must-win game against Switzerland, helping Slovakia clinch a playoff spot.
He finished the tournament with eight points in five games, adding to the six points he recorded in seven games at the U18 Worlds as an underager.
But Selič’s game goes far beyond the stat sheet. He’s strong defensively and plays with plenty of physicality, making good use of his 6’3”, 198-pound frame.
Selič could realistically find himself on both the WJC and U18 Worlds teams this year, presenting a huge opportunity for the 2009-born Slovak.
If his offensive game continues to shine, this could be a major stepping stone toward a potential top-10 selection.
NHL Draft Rankings: Tomas Selic (#18)
Talk about rising to the moment, Tomas Selic did it again on the international stage, this time at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
He exploded for four goals and two assists in a must-win game against Switzerland, helping Slovakia clinch a playoff… pic.twitter.com/8omyWNsjIa
20. Bosse Meijer (5’10” | 168lbs | C | Frölunda HC | Sweden)
One of the more complete players in this draft, Bosse Meijer is difficult to pinpoint because no single attribute defines his success, yet he racks up a ton of points while remaining strong defensively.
He’s produced above a point-per-game pace across the U18s, Hlinka, and U20 Nationell. While the mobility is solid, he thrives down low by hunting rebounds, winning battles, and navigating tight spaces with his 5’10” frame.
Beyond his offensive output, Meijer is a reliable defensive presence who projects as a staple on the penalty kill.
The skating should be enough for him to stick at centre in the NHL, though the physicality aspect will be key to monitor.
Given his proven international track record, expect him to be at the World Juniors, even with Sweden’s deep talent pool to choose from.
NHL Draft Rankings: Bosse Meijer (#20)
One of the more complete players in this draft, Bosse Meijer is difficult to pinpoint because no single attribute defines his success, yet he racks up a ton of points while remaining strong defensively.
21. Yevgeni Yakunin (6’3″ | 194lbs | C | MHK Spartak Moskva | Russia)
Yevgeni Yakunin is a compelling prospect with intriguing upside. He has a knack for slowing the game down, taking an extra half-second to read the ice before making the right play. That high offensive IQ fuels the rest of his game and helped him rack up 47 points in the MHL last season.
At 6’3”, Yakunin excels around the crease, using his frame to establish net-front presence and make life difficult for opposing defenders.
While his skating mechanics look a bit awkward and will need refining before he can transition to the NHL, his combination of size and awareness gives him a strong projection.
Despite being under contract in Russia, he should still expect to hear his name called early on draft night.
NHL Draft Rankings: Yevgeni Yakunin (#21)
Yevgeni Yakunin is a compelling prospect with intriguing upside.
He has a knack for slowing the game down, taking an extra half-second to read the ice before making the right play.
An undersized but at times game-altering blueliner, Douglas Johnsson had a must-watch performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup on an underwhelming Swedish team.
Skating is the focal point of his game, using exceptional edge work and top speed to generate separation in all three zones.
Although not known for a heavy point shot, his softer, more tactical release consistently finds its way through traffic to create chaos and high-danger rebound opportunities in front.
He’s a dynamic playmaker who regularly finds the highlight reel by deking through opponents before finding his teammates on the backdoor tap-in.
Finding better consistency will be key to elevating his draft stock, but if he can undergo a late growth spurt closer to his dad Pierre’s 6’2″ frame, Johnsson could become a marquee feature of this draft class.
NHL Draft Rankings: Douglas Johnsson (#22)
An undersized but at times, game-altering blueliner, Douglas Johnsson had a must-watch performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup on an underwhelming Swedish team.
23. Roberts Naudiņš (6’6″ | 212lbs | F | Penticton Vees | Latvia)
Standing at a staggering 6’6”, Roberts Naudiņš has tons of potential through his sheer physical presence alone. Pair that frame with soft hands and respectable mobility, and he projects as a sneaky high-upside option who could end up as the steal of the draft class.
While he didn’t put up massive numbers at the World Juniors, he did hold his own as a 16- and 17-year-old against much older competition, highlighting his drive and maturity.
He has made significant strides in filling out his massive frame, and as he transitions to Penticton in the WHL, a breakout campaign could easily vault him into top-20 consideration.
NHL Draft Rankings: Roberts Naudiņš (#23)
Standing at a staggering 6’6”, Roberts Naudiņš has tons of potential through his sheer physical presence alone.
Pair that frame with soft hands and respectable mobility, and he projects as a sneaky high-upside option who could end up… pic.twitter.com/DK2qWLRK8X
Ryerson Edgar is an electric, fun-to-watch forward. He loves to attack defenders head-on in one-on-one scenarios, where his high-end hands and dynamic skill allow him to regularly beat opponents clean en route to the net.
He pairs good speed with a well-rounded offensive toolkit, capable of hurting teams as both a sharp shooting threat and an inventive playmaker once inside the zone.
While his 5’10” frame doesn’t offer high-end physical leverage, his overall skill set is undeniable.
He will need to post some elite offensive numbers to cement his status in the first-round conversation, but given his raw toolkit, the likelihood of a breakout year is high.
NHL Draft Rankings: Ryerson Edgar (#24)
Ryerson Edgar is an electric, fun-to-watch forward. He loves to attack defenders head-on in one-on-one scenarios, where his high-end hands and dynamic skill allow him to regularly beat opponents clean en route to the net.
A standout performer from the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Lenni Kokkonen demonstrated why he sits a tier above his fellow Finnish defenders through his well-rounded, mature game.
He establishes his value in his own zone first, utilizing his frame and stickwork to kill plays and protect the house. Transitioning up the ice, his offensive instincts shine as a calculated playmaker with a sneaky, deceptive point shot.
At 6’2”, his frame is projectable, and as a coveted right-shot blueliner, he is an even higher-valued asset in this draft class.
He is expected to earn reps in Liiga with Kärpät this season, which will only accelerate his adjustment to senior hockey, and continuing that momentum will be his primary focus as the year unfolds.
NHL Draft Rankings: Lenni Kokkonen (#25)
A standout performer from the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Lenni Kokkonen demonstrated why he sits a tier above his fellow Finnish defenders through his well-rounded, mature game.
If there’s a net, you can expect Maxmilian Mareš to be around it. Utilizing his massive 6’6” frame, he consistently infiltrates high-danger areas, combining soft hands with good finishing, especially in tight, to cash in.
He delivered a stellar performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, posting six points in four games, and will look to carry that momentum into his campaign with Rimouski.
While still raw in terms of overall development, he moves remarkably well for his size, making him a fascinating high-upside target for any team looking to take a gamble in the first round.
NHL Draft Rankings: Maximilian Mares (#26)
If there’s a net, you can expect Maximilian Mares to be around it.
Utilizing his massive 6’6” frame, he consistently infiltrates high-danger areas, combining soft hands with good finishing, especially in tight, to cash in.
27. Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll (6’0″ | 190lbs | F | Medicine Hat Tigers | USA)
Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll can absolutely fly. Working at a relentless pace, he wreaks havoc on the forecheck by forcing turnovers that quickly turn into high-danger scoring opportunities, with the majority of his offensive threats generated off the rush.
While his overall production hasn’t quite reached first-round calibre yet, expect that trajectory to shift upward during the 2026–27 campaign with Medicine Hat.
Combine his dynamic speed with exceptional efficiency in the face-off circle, and he projects cleanly as a reliable middle-six center at the NHL level.
NHL Draft Rankings: Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll (#27)
Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll can absolutely fly. Working at a relentless pace, he wreaks havoc on the forecheck by forcing turnovers that quickly turn into high-danger scoring opportunities, with the majority of his offensive threats… pic.twitter.com/WjiZogODbZ
Vladimir Shtyrkhunov is an intriguing, offensively minded defenceman who loves to join the rush and faces a pivotal season ahead as he transitions from Russia to the QMJHL.
Standing at 5’10”, he lacks imposing size, relying instead on high-end mobility and sharp anticipation to disrupt plays defensively and drive transition up the ice.
Offensively, he has solid vision paired with a functional point shot, traits that should continue to refine as he adapts to the North American game.
With a strong skating base and proven offensive instincts, Shtyrkhunov is a prime candidate for a breakout year with Shawinigan.
NHL Draft Rankings: Vladimir Shtyrkhunov (#28)
Vladimir Shtyrkhunov is an intriguing, offensively minded defenceman who loves to join the rush and faces a pivotal season ahead as he transitions from Russia to the QMJHL.
While not the flashiest defenceman projected for the first round, Boston Tait is a very reliable defender who manages both ends of the ice with quiet precision.
Utilizing his 6’2” frame, Tait thrives in dirty areas, battling relentlessly in corners and punishing anyone who tries to establish a net-front presence.
He racks up heavy penalty-kill minutes and projects as someone who can be trusted in any situation. Though his point shot lags behind some of his class’s higher-end offensive peers, his transition passing and breakout vision are crisp and efficient.
As a defence-first anchor with ideal size and mobility, Tait will be a prime target for teams seeking stability on the back end.
NHL Draft Rankings: Boston Tait (#29)
While not the flashiest defenceman projected for the first round, Boston Tait is a very reliable defender who manages both ends of the ice with quiet precision.
Utilizing his 6’2” frame, Tait thrives in dirty areas, battling relentlessly… pic.twitter.com/yowddVXVbo
Making serious noise at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Lukáš Kachlíř looked every bit the part of a first-round pick after piling up six points in four games.
His offensive tool set is undeniable: he leverages sharp edge work to create passing seams or unleash a dangerous release from distance.
While already possessing good speed, his top-end pace should only continue to improve. Defensively, he uses that mobility to overcome his smaller 5’8” frame, closing gaps quickly and maintaining sound positioning.
After going pointless in a 13-game stint with the senior Bílí Tygři Liberec team last season, increasing minutes in the Czech Extraliga will be his true proving ground.
Call it recency bias if you will, but Kachlíř carries some serious momentum heading into his draft year.
NHL Draft Rankings: Lukas Kachlir (#30)
Making serious noise at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Lukas Kachlir looked every bit the part of a first-round pick after piling up six points in four games.
His offensive tool set is undeniable: he leverages sharp edge work to create passing… pic.twitter.com/YHLV51iZUc
31. Nolan Fitzhenry (5’11” | 183lbs | C | USNTDP Juniors | USA)
It’s set to be a big year for Nolan Fitzhenry as he aims to cement his status as a first-round selection.
The toolbox is there; he is a fluid skater, a creative playmaker, and possesses a lethal release to match. He generates high-volume offence off the rush and executes clean, composed breakouts the moment the puck hits his stick in the defensive zone.
Although a limited role at the U18 Worlds yielded a single assist in three games, his offensive ceiling was on full display at the World U17 Hockey Challenge, where he posted seven points in four games.
Stepping into a primary role with the USNTDP this season, Fitzhenry has every opportunity to prove he belongs in the upper echelon of the draft.
NHL Draft Rankings: Nolan Fitzhenry (#31)
It’s set to be a big year for Nolan Fitzhenry as he aims to cement his status as a first-round selection.
The toolbox is there; he is a fluid skater, a creative playmaker, and possesses a lethal release to match.
In a draft class full of smaller-framed blueliners, it wouldn’t surprise me to see 6’3” Malik L’Italien selected early on draft day.
Primarily serving as a shutdown defender, he embraces physical play, clearing out the net front and battling relentlessly along the boards.
While his offensive tools are built around a heavy point shot and solid distribution vision during power-play minutes with Halifax, they don’t project as high-end attributes just yet.
L’Italien possesses the defensive ability of a top-10 talent, but expanding his offensive toolbox will be the key to climbing into that top tier.
NHL Draft Rankings: Malik L’Italien (#32)
In a draft class full of smaller-framed blueliners, it wouldn’t surprise me to see 6’3” Malik L’Italien selected early on draft day.
Primarily serving as a shutdown defender, he embraces physical play, clearing out the net front and… pic.twitter.com/YQPhzjxwey
Tommy Bleyl: Projection: Top 4 Defenceman Strengths: Elite skating, Playmaking, Shooting Weaknesses: Physicality, Defensive IQ
Analysis: Tommy Bleyl might be the most under-the-radar defenceman in this draft. The main attribute in his game is his elite skating. He has elite mobility and shiftiness, which is attributed to his excellent edge control and very good top speed. He moves around the ice so effortlessly that it allows him to jump up in the rush or maintain his gap control against very fast attackers. His playmaking and vision are also extremely good. His passes are crisp and always placed on the tape of his teammates. He sees the ice very well to find open ice and lanes through sticks. His decision-making with the puck is excellent, too, consistently making the right play. He also has a very deceptive release, making his shot a dangerous tool for him as well.
Where he needs to improve is in his physicality. He needs to put on a little bit of muscle to help improve his net front and along the boards battling. He isn’t the best at using his body to separate opponents from pucks or box them out in front due to his size. I have found in the games I watched him, he sometimes has a lapse defensively, where he leaves his assignment open for a little longer than I like, or he defends them well with his stick, but then doesn’t take the body out of the play as well.
Thomas Rousseau: Projection: Bottom 9 Forward Strengths: Hockey IQ, Puck control, Versatility Weaknesses: Strength, Size, Patience
Analysis:
Thomas Rousseau is an incredibly versatile undersized forward. In every situation of the game, his immense amount of hockey IQ allows him to be an effective player on the ice. At five on five, he is excellent at supporting his teammates along the wall, being an option for an easy breakout pass, and controls his opponents’ options with an active stick and continuous head on a swivel, dissecting their options and the best way he can eliminate the most dangerous one. Offensively, he is very good at making quick one-touch passes in transition, being a hard-checking F1 or supportive F2, and finding the open ice to be an option for a pass, deflection, or rebound. On the power play, he is good at gaining the opponent’s blueline while being effective with his hockey IQ and vision, playing either the bumper or flank. On the penalty kill, he again leverages his defensive attributes along with his strong faceoff prowess to be a reliable PKer.
His flaws are unfortunately out of his control for the most part. The main thing is his size, being able to remain a super versatile forward in the next level won’t be the easiest thing to do because of his height. He also lacks a significant amount of muscle, but it will just take a few seasons and summers of developing to overcome that. The easiest thing he can develop in his game is a little more patience with the puck. There are times that he touches the puck as soon as he gets it, whereas if he waited just a second or two longer there would have been a better, more dangerous option available to him. In all honesty, he is very capable of becoming a very good NHL player, he just requires time to develop his body to the level needed to become that player.
Dagenais is a poised, detail-oriented forward who plays a simple but very effective game built around strong puck control and smart, calculated decisions. He consistently slows the play down, especially on zone entries, showing patience and awareness to let plays develop instead of forcing anything, while still having the ability to slip passes through sticks when lanes open up. He is a really fluid skater with good edgework, and while he can beat defenders with speed, he more often uses that skating base with his poise to control the pace and maintain possession. His puck control stands out even more with how well he uses his body in battles, protecting pucks and coming out of contested areas with control. In the offensive zone he shows good movement within the cycle, staying connected to plays and supporting effectively to extend possession. Defensively, he is poised with the puck and makes clean, composed decisions, which really shows on breakouts as he moves pucks up ice seamlessly and keeps transition play under control. He keeps things simple, plays within structure, and doesn’t try to do too much, which makes him very reliable shift to shift. He is also a good shooter who looks to shoot, with a strong release that is most dangerous off the wrist shot in space rather than in tight, but he will still get inside when needed. On the power play, he fits naturally on the right flank, where he can attack off the catch or distribute. In the faceoff circle, he sits around 50 percent right now, but it feels like there is more there and that should improve as he gets stronger and refines his technique. With his combination of skating, intelligence, puck management, and overall reliability, I could see him pushing for the top-three center spot in this draft, but at worst, he looks comfortably like a top-five center and a mid-first-round type who projects as a strong two-way 2C with legit defensive value, in my opinion.
Draft-eligible talent across junior and professional leagues continued to deliver in high-pressure situations this week, with playoff hockey and international competition providing the perfect stage for prospects to elevate their stock. As the 2026 NHL Draft approaches, consistent production and timely performances remain key separators among the class.
This week’s three stars feature a towering Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) center finding his stride in a crucial push for a game 7, a Swedish pivot dominating at the U20 level following his SHL season, and a well-traveled Latvian defender who has found his offensive touch in the DEL playoffs.
Here are the draft-eligible three stars for the week of March 30 to April 6.
Maddox Dagenais | C | Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)
Quebec Remparts center Maddox Dagenais put together an impressive draft season, positioning himself as a potential late first-round or early second-round selection. The 37th-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings finished tied for third among QMJHL draft eligibles with 30 goals, while his 62 points (30 goals, 32 assists) ranked fifth in the group. The 6-foot-4 pivot also represented Team CHL at the second annual CHL USA Prospects Challenge, recording an assist across the three-game series.
Dagenais has elevated his play as the stakes have increased in the postseason. Despite being held off the scoresheet in Games 1 and 2 against the Charlottetown Islanders — registering 11 shots on goal over that span — the Montreal native has responded with six points (three goals, three assists) in the following four games, helping the Remparts push their series to a decisive Game 7.
In Game 3, with the score tied late in regulation, Dagenais helped initiate the sequence that led to a dramatic, last-second power-play goal as Quebec secured a crucial victory. He followed that up with a standout performance in Game 4, opening the scoring with a strong end-to-end rush capped by a precise wrist shot over the glove. Later in the game, with under a minute remaining, he added another goal to bring the Remparts within one, though the comeback ultimately fell short in a 3-2 loss.
Dagenais recorded an assist in Game 5, continuing to generate offense despite another narrow 3-2 defeat. Facing elimination in Game 6, he delivered one of his most impactful performances of the series. He helped open the scoring by moving the puck to the point for a goal by defenseman Charlie Morrison. In the third period he moved the puck down low before finding space on a 4-on-3 power play, where he buried a one-timer over the glove to extend the lead and help force a winner-take-all Game 7.
Viggo Björck | C | Djurgårdens IF (SHL)
Swedish center Viggo Björck continues to reinforce his status as one of the top prospects in the 2026 NHL Draft class. Following the conclusion of Djurgårdens’ SHL season, the Stockholm native joined the club’s U20 side for the playoffs and has been a dominant offensive presence. His 12 points (six goals, six assists) in five postseason games for 2.40 points per game ranks as the best point-per-game mark for draft eligibles in the U20 Nationell. He has been playing a key role in pushing his team to the semifinals.
Björck made an immediate impact in the series opener against Leksands. He evened the score at one midway through the second period, jumping into open space off the bench and finishing quickly with a wrist shot. The 2026 World Junior gold medalist struck again in the third period, breaking a 3-3 tie with a power-play goal after finding himself uncovered in the slot. He later added an assist on the empty-net goal to seal a 5-3 victory.
The skilled forward followed that up with another strong showing in Game 2. Björck opened the scoring with an impressive individual effort, taking a pass through the neutral zone, driving wide while protecting the puck, and finishing with a smooth backhand-to-forehand move to lift the puck over the goaltender. He added a power-play assist later in the game as Djurgårdens secured a 2-0 win and took a two-game series lead.
Albert Smits | LHD | EHC München (DEL)
Latvian defender Albert Smits has taken an unconventional path in his draft year, gaining experience across multiple leagues and international stages. The December-born blueliner began the season in Finland with Jukurit, recording 13 points (six goals, seven assists) in 38 games. He later logged significant minutes for Latvia at the 2026 World Junior Championship and represented his country at the Olympic Games, where he contributed two assists in four contests.
Following the Olympics, Smits joined EHC München on a loan for the stretch run and postseason. After a limited role in the regular season, the 6-foot-3, 205-pound defender has found another level offensively in the playoffs.
In a back-and-forth contested series against ERC Ingolstadt, Smits broke through in Game 5, extending his team’s lead in the third period with a heavy point shot that beat the goaltender cleanly. He followed that performance with a three-point effort in Game 6, recording two secondary assists before adding an empty-net goal to help seal a 7-3 victory.
Smits’ recent surge highlights his ability to adapt quickly and contribute in key moments, further strengthening his case as one of the more intriguing defensive prospects in the 2026 class.
With playoff runs coming to an end across much of the hockey world, the draft year is officially winding down for many NHL hopefuls. While a select few still have opportunities to impress at the Memorial Cup or the IIHF World Championship, most prospects have already completed the most important campaigns of their young careers.
This week’s three stars feature two Swedish forwards continuing to prove they can thrive against significantly older competition, along with an overage QMJHL forward whose strong finish helped deliver a championship for his club.
Here are the draft-eligible three stars for the week of May 11 to 18.
Ivar Stenberg | RW/LW | Sweden (WC)
Swedish winger Ivar Stenberg has shown throughout his draft year that no stage is too big. After producing one of the strongest seasons ever by an 18-year-old in the SHL and playing a major role in Sweden’s gold medal run at the World Junior Championship, the Stenungsund native is now making his mark at the IIHF World Championship.
The 6-foot forward recorded three assists in as many games this past week in Switzerland and has looked right at home on Sweden’s top line alongside Detroit Red Wings standout Lucas Raymond and fellow draft-eligible forward Viggo Björck.
The second-ranked skater on Draft Prospects Hockey’s 2026 NHL Draft Rankings recorded a pair of assists in Sweden’s dominant win over Denmark. His playmaking ability was on full display, particularly on a setup to Björck, who converted with a one-timer past the Danish goaltender.
Stenberg also added a secondary assist on a goal by Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson in Sweden’s comeback attempt against Czechia, though the Swedes ultimately fell short.
Viggo Björck | C | Sweden (WC)
Viggo Björck continues to strengthen his draft stock with every opportunity against older competition. The Swedish center emerged as Djurgården’s top-line pivot late in the season before dominating the U20 playoffs, where he recorded 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in nine games and helped lead his club to a league championship.
Though slightly undersized at 5-foot-10 and 172 pounds, the Stockholm native has continued to prove that his skill and hockey sense allow him to thrive against more physically mature competition.
That trust has carried over to the international stage, where Sweden has deployed Björck at center on its top line at the World Championship.
Both of his tournament points came against Denmark, but his impact has extended well beyond the scoresheet. Among Swedish forwards, only established NHL players Lucas Raymond, Joel Eriksson Ek, and Adrian Kempe have averaged more ice time than the younger brother of Vancouver Canucks prospect Wilson Björck.
Liam Lefebvre | C | Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
Overage forward Liam Lefebvre has made a seamless transition from United States prep school hockey to Canadian major junior, emerging as an important contributor during a championship run.
The Montreal native recorded 29 points (15 goals, 14 assists) in 35 games with the Rimouski Océanic before being acquired by the Chicoutimi Saguenéens ahead of the trade deadline.
The 6-foot-3, 203-pound center elevated his production after the move to one of the QMJHL’s top clubs, recording 30 points (17 goals, 13 assists) in 25 games. Despite averaging just 14:32 of ice time per game, the Trinity-Pawling alumnus finished third on the team in points per game among skaters who appeared in at least 45 contests.
Lefebvre added four points in four games this past week, helping the Saguenéens secure their first league championship since 1994. His ability to provide secondary scoring and consistent two-way play proved to be an important part of Chicoutimi’s title-winning run.
After completing at least three viewings on each goalie listed below in the latter part of their respective seasons, I wanted to put together a more complete spotlight on some of the most intriguing draft-eligible goaltenders in this class. The goal here wasn’t only to evaluate results or statistics, but rather to identify projectable technical habits, physical tools, decision-making, and long-term upside through multiple live viewings and game situations. The following reports focus on the elements that stood out the most in recent viewings and how each goalie currently projects heading into the NHL Draft.
Carter Casey, Medicine Hat Tigers Carter Casey is probably one of the most electrifying goalies in this class and, in my opinion, the best mover of the bunch. He’s constantly active in his crease and stands out with his quickness, speed, and mobility. His athleticism allows him to contort his body and extend his legs to put himself in excellent position to make all kinds of saves without compromising his recoveries or overall structure. In my most recent viewings, I particularly liked the way he tracked pucks on long-range shots through traffic. He followed the puck extremely well even when it changed direction and reacted on time to place his body in front of tipped shots. That greatly helped limit dangerous rebounds and second chances. Casey also displayed excellent anticipatory habits on cross-crease plays, reading passes and identifying the shooter rather than simply following the puck. High-shot tracking remains something to monitor. On a few occasions, some pucks didn’t appear to be tracked cleanly and his body reacted with a recoil-like motion, with his head retracting into his shoulders. Casey also tends to drop to his knees too quickly instead of holding his edges longer, which can leave him vulnerable to passing plays and secondary chances. Overall, Casey projects very well thanks to his speed, athleticism, and the control element he’s progressively adding to his game. He should hear his name called somewhere around the third round of the draft.
William Lacelle, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada William Lacelle is another highly skilled goalie who may lack a bit of size by NHL standards. His biggest strength is undoubtedly the precision and speed of his movements, but digging deeper, his puck tracking is not far from elite. He reads releases extremely well and consistently keeps sight of the puck in nearly every situation. I also really liked his play reading. He has a strong feel for how sequences develop in the defensive zone and adjusts his game accordingly. The fact that he’s both quick and intelligent allows him to play aggressively while maintaining excellent angle coverage and strong recoveries on lateral plays and second chances.
That said, his speed and aggressive movement habits can sometimes work against him. There are sequences where he overmoves and ends up needing extra effort to recover positioning. Some teams may hesitate because of his lack of size, but he compensates with elite traits that, in my opinion, should guarantee him a selection in the third round or, at worst, the fourth.
Harrison Boettiger, Kelowna Rockets When watching Harrison Boettiger play, the first word that comes to mind is smooth. Everything about his game looks fluid, from the way he moves to the way he controls pucks. He’s particularly effective in the butterfly, sealing the ice extremely well with a wide flare and powerful drops. His butterfly slides are elite, efficient, and look effortless. That makes him very difficult to beat on low shots and highly effective on recoveries. I also like his puck tracking. While it may not be elite, it’s clearly above average, especially in how quickly he reads releases. However, it hasn’t always been his most consistent trait. I noticed some sequences where he briefly lost focus, which led to softer goals on clean long-range shots. Boettiger will also need to improve his play recognition and anticipation. Too often, he relies on his athleticism and excellent slides to cover space instead of anticipating plays before they fully develop. He’s a goalie with a lot of tools that I really like, but I don’t currently see enough to place him ahead of the goalies I value in the first three rounds of the draft.
Vladimir Proskurin, Atlant Mytishchi Vladimir Proskurin is one of the goalies who has made the biggest jump in my rankings throughout the season. Once viewed as a speedy goalie with some erratic tendencies, he has made tremendous progress controlling his movements and staying precise without sacrificing his elite traits. And the list of elite tools is long: quick feet, crisp edges, high-end athleticism. He also plays with an aggressive but controlled approach that makes him look much bigger than he actually is. That says a lot about how efficiently he covers angles. His puck tracking was also very good and he used active hands to catch and control pucks, limiting dangerous rebounds. The main thing I’d still like to see more of is his awareness of backside threats and peripheral options. He often reacts after the pass and relies heavily on athleticism to cover the distance. I really like both the upside and progression curve with Proskurin. He checks a lot of boxes for what modern NHL teams look for in a goalie and he should be one of the first goalies selected in the next NHL Draft.
Dmitri Ivchenko, Omskie Yastreby I’ve said it multiple times already, but Ivchenko is probably one of my favorite goalies in this class and certainly one of the most projectable long-term. The level of competition he faced was questioned throughout the year, but it’s impossible to ignore the tools and projectable traits he displayed all season. His overall game is extremely clean, but what stood out most was his ability to slow plays down and make everything look easy. That translated into elite puck tracking. His eyes stayed locked on the puck from the shooter all the way into his body. Whenever he gave up a rebound, his eyes stayed with the puck, making his recoveries quick and controlled. Throughout all my recent viewings, he remained extremely well positioned thanks to strong anticipation and highly efficient crease routes. There honestly weren’t many weaknesses that stood out in his game. However, on some occasions, he stayed locked into the overlap position for too long, which made him vulnerable against sharp-angle shooters and passing plays. Also, while his blocker stayed projected on slides and he caught nearly everything to the glove side, his hands could still become more active while moving to further improve angle coverage. Bottom line, Ivchenko will be near the very top of my goalie rankings and I fully believe he’s worthy of a third-round selection.
Michal Orsulak, Prince Albert Raiders Michal Orsulak’s stock is clearly trending upward right now, especially with Prince Albert playing in the WHL Final and after helping Czechia reach the final of the most recent World Junior Championship. Orsulak is a re-entry candidate after going undrafted last year before making the move to North America this season. At first glance, he has all the tools to be viewed as one of the top goalie prospects available. He’s big and possesses excellent mobility, especially through his lower body. That allows him to cover the ice very effectively. His legs stay active while in the butterfly, making him highly efficient on his knees. In my recent viewings, he was extremely difficult to beat on low shots. He also uses his large frame very well to stay square and take away a significant portion of the net. Despite his size, Orsulak moves fairly well overall. That said, I have major questions regarding his top-end lateral speed. On many occasions, he anticipated plays well and quickly identified the new shooter on passing sequences, but he lacked the pure speed needed to fully cover the distance and get set in position to make the save. That issue led to goals against, especially on plays coming from the corners or from behind the net. After multiple viewings, it looked more like a recurring trend than isolated mistakes. Also, while he read releases quickly, he didn’t always seem to fully track the puck into his body, which led to several uncontrolled rebounds into dangerous areas. For those reasons, I can’t fully buy into the trend of placing him near the top of my rankings. The lack of elite lateral speed and the concerns surrounding his puck tracking force me to rank him behind more complete prospects in those areas. Still, Orsulak remains a legitimate middle-round candidate in this draft.