NHL draft week has arrived, bringing with it the final prospect rankings. This list details the top 64 prospects, offering insights into their game, areas for growth, how NHL scouts perceive them, and their potential NHL trajectory. These final rankings integrate combine results and place a greater emphasis on scouting feedback and industry knowledge compared to previous models. While some players` valuations have shifted, their position reflects their likelihood of becoming NHL players based on developmental needs and industry perception.
Beyond Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa, the draft class lacks widespread consensus. For instance, some teams rank players in the top 20 that others don`t have on their draft boards at all. This divergence stems partly from teams prioritizing different player attributes—whether it`s skill, physicality, size, or playoff performance—and valuing players who align with their organizational philosophy. More so than in past years, a player might drop in the draft because another prospect is simply higher on a specific team`s list. This could prompt teams to trade up to secure players they feel have fallen too far to ignore.
It`s crucial to remember that a player`s success isn`t determined solely by their draft position, but rather by their development in the following years. While it`s true that earlier picks generally receive more opportunities, regardless of talent, this doesn`t preclude finding hidden gems later in the draft. Given the current emphasis on size, toughness, and hard skills over purely high-end talent, it`s plausible that we might see more successful players emerge from selections outside the first round this year compared to previous drafts.
Here are the top 31 prospects, with analysis (the original article included details for the top 31):
1. Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie (OHL)
The Erie Otters defenseman is projected to be a foundational, true No. 1 cornerstone for years to come. A dynamic two-way presence, the 6-foot-2 blueliner boasts fluid skating and elite mobility, allowing him to effectively shut down opponents in any situation while generating offense through quality transition play.
An injury sustained at the IIHF World Junior Championships—where he was expected to play a significant role as a 17-year-old—limited his season to just 26 games. Despite this, Schaefer consistently logged over 25 minutes per game and reliably drove play in his team`s favor.
Executives and scouts view him as a future elite NHL defenseman and a key building block for a championship team. Schaefer`s ability to command play from the blue line, handle tough assignments, and quarterback a power play—coupled with strong belief in his character and leadership—leads many to believe he possesses the skills to become a top-10 defender in the league and potentially wear a letter as part of a team`s leadership group.
2. Michael Misa, F, Saginaw (OHL)
Granted exceptional status in the OHL in 2022, Misa delivered one of the most impressive goal-scoring seasons in recent memory during 2024-25, netting 62 goals in just 65 games. He is projected to be a top-line forward capable of consistently surpassing 90 points per season in the NHL.
Misa`s offensive instincts are truly elite. He processes the game at a high level and executes plays at top speed. Scouts consider him NHL-ready and see the potential for him to develop into an elite top-line center. Away from the puck, Misa excels at identifying open space in coverage and has a knack for performing in crucial moments. His combination of high-level playmaking and goal-scoring ability makes him a perpetual dual threat in the offensive zone.
His two-way game has shown significant progress, with improved backchecking, defensive awareness, and commitment to a complete 200-foot game. Coupled with his explosive speed and offensive prowess, Misa projects as a foundational player for a franchise.
3. James Hagens, F, Boston College (NCAA)
Hagens is projected to be a top-line center or one of the league`s premier second-line centers. He distinguishes himself from Misa with a less dynamic, yet highly intelligent and efficient playing style. He brings a strong work ethic, excellent speed, and notable passing ability that should translate effectively to driving play at the NHL level. Scouts and executives are impressed by the professional details in his game—such as puck support, winning battles, and defensive puck play—believing these will ease his transition to the NHL as he develops his offensive explosiveness.
Spending another season at Boston College could be key to further developing the dynamic offensive element needed to become a top-line NHL center—the kind that impressed scouts during his 102-point NTDP season. After playing on a top college line with New York Rangers prospect Gabe Perreault and Washington Capitals prospect Ryan Leonard, Hagens would take on a leading role, expected to drive his own line, create offense through his playmaking, and handle significant matchup responsibilities.
Hagens has the potential to be a complete package in the NHL. His understanding of spacing and ability to anticipate plays stands out among his peers. While his smaller, slighter build raises concerns for some teams, his game exhibits a blend of Clayton Keller and Jack Hughes in terms of transition play and creative offensive generation.
4. Porter Martone, F, Brampton (OHL)
A large, intelligent forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player capable of both scoring himself and setting up teammates. He is projected as a second-line scoring winger who should earn significant time on the top power-play unit.
His competitive spirit positions him to become an effective agitator as he learns to physically assert himself against opponents. While he needs to refine his competitiveness and physicality for greater effectiveness, he embodies the type of player highly sought after for his rare combination of offensive skill and competitive drive.
Martone`s scoring and playmaking abilities will make him a challenging player for NHL defenders to handle. Concerns persist regarding Martone`s speed and skating mechanics. Although his speed improved this season, he needs to add explosiveness to his stride to reach his full potential.
His distinctive blend of scoring touch, size, and hard skills makes him a very appealing prospect. While a top-six forward is his most confident projection, Martone has a legitimate opportunity to develop into a top-line winger if his skating continues to improve.
5. Anton Frondell, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
Frondell is a versatile two-way forward adept at playing both center and right wing. This flexibility is appealing to teams, although many believe his potential is best realized as a winger in the NHL.
Frondell is coming off one of the most productive seasons by an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, solidifying his 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, 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 successfully translated to the NHL for other prospects. He is projected to produce between 75-85 points per season. His playing style translates well and has executives excited about his potential to step into the league within the next 18 months.
Frondell impressed during the physical testing and interview portions of the scouting combine, leaving many teams highly impressed. His combination of two-way ability, great anticipation, and a high-end shot makes him one of the most exciting prospects in this class.
6. Roger McQueen, F, Brandon (WHL)
Described as `a unicorn` due to being a 6-5 center who skates with the speed and mobility typically 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 a rarity in the NHL, and McQueen`s size combined with his willingness to physically dictate play adds undeniable value. He possesses professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL and unique offensive upside that is still developing, partly due to playing time lost to injury during his draft season.
McQueen dominates the cycle game, creates offense on the rush, and utilizes his physical gifts to control the cycle and protect pucks effectively. His projection as an elite top-line center lacks the highest confidence due to the limited playing time from his back injury. Without the injury setback, he might be discussed among the very top prospects in this draft class, as his combination of skating, skill, and physical attributes is rare and the kind of toolbox executives dream of.
He represents a classic high-risk, high-reward player. However, his performance at the scouting combine helped demonstrate that his back injury has fully healed. Playing against tougher competition will necessitate McQueen further developing his ability to protect himself and the puck, and his skill in creating offense against larger opponents will be crucial. If he develops without setbacks, he could become a formidable two-way force in the NHL for years to come.
7. Caleb Desnoyers, F, Moncton (QMJHL)
Desnoyers might be selected much higher than this ranking suggests, as he could be one of the draft`s top two-way players. Described as a `coach`s dream` due to his consistent ability to execute both offensive and checking assignments effectively. He makes smart, straightforward plays, provides a physical presence on the forecheck, and generally makes life difficult for opposing defenders through effective agitation.
He projects as a quality second-line center with a decent chance of becoming a first-line player. He is cerebral, possesses quick hands, and exhibits strong playmaking ability. While not flashy, he is consistently effective and makes intelligent decisions with the puck.
Executives highly value the term `reliable` from scouts, and it perfectly describes Desnoyers. He performs best in high-pressure games because he consistently finds ways to make the necessary plays to win. Many scouts believe he will be a future leader in the NHL, providing solid play across both sides of the puck and in all situations.
As one scouting director noted, “he`s the type of player you win with.” Some have quietly compared him to Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews, which are undeniably lofty comparisons.
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, behind Schaefer.
He possesses all the attributes of a top-four matchup defenseman. He defends the rush effectively, closes gaps well, and steers play in transition, making him one of the best neutral-zone transition defenders in the class. Given the importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a genuine opportunity to become the player coaches rely on for heavy minutes against top opponents.
His blend of skating, size, and composure, combined with an offensive game that steadily improved throughout the season, makes me confident there is more potential to unlock. Playing at Penn State next season should further aid this development.
Smith stands 6-3, and executives appreciate the simplicity of his game: reading pressure, disrupting plays, and making effective passes to exit the zone. He lacks explosive skating and the consistent creativity required for significant offensive contribution at the NHL level, but his reads are strong enough for him to be a plus transition player and join the rush as support.
Smith`s future development will focus on leveraging his excellent mobility to prevent rush offense and becoming a more consistent offensive threat with improved puck management. If Smith can drive play effectively on both sides of the puck in transition and develop into a power-play threat, there`s a real possibility he becomes a No. 2 defenseman at the NHL level.
9. Jake O`Brien, F, Brantford (OHL)
Deceptive and remarkably smooth, O`Brien is projected to be a point-producing, top-six center with a chance to reach top-line status. The right-handed pivot is one of the draft`s premier playmakers, regularly generating high-danger scoring chances; in my view, he is the draft`s best pure offensive creator.
He consistently manipulates defenders, distributes the puck effectively on both his forehand and backhand, and uses fakes that confound defenders and goaltenders alike. His development needs include simplifying offensive plays to reduce turnovers caused by holding the puck too long.
O`Brien`s shot is an area that must improve for his passing to become an elite threat in the NHL. There is some risk due to his slighter build compared to other centers available, but he has room to add strength over the next few years. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills will be significantly more valuable if he can add a speed element and increase his shooting threat.
He is likely two to 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 become an elite power-play quarterback and offensive driver.
10. Victor Eklund, F, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)
Eklund is projected as a top-six forward with a good chance of becoming a top-line contributor. There`s a distinct possibility he might fall out of the top 10 this week, which would present exceptional value for whichever team selects him. Despite concerns about his size—he is 5-11, 161 pounds—Eklund`s playing style is highly translatable to the NHL. He plays with a physical presence much larger than his measurements suggest, and he has room to gain strength. If he grows, as has occurred with other prospects, Eklund`s projection becomes more confidently that of a 70-point producer with a high-end motor and excellent forechecking capability.
Eklund is exceptional in transition, attacking defenders with speed and fearlessness, driving to the inside, and positioning his body effectively to win or protect pucks. His smaller stature has necessitated him learning how to protect the puck with 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 without 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 blend of hard-nosed play with soft skill should translate more smoothly than many other players.
11. Carter Bear, F, Everett (WHL)
Bear is the type of player sought after by teams looking for 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 offers versatility, playing both center and wing, and is projected as a 65- to 75-point, second-line player, likely as a winger.
He is a skilled playmaker, utilizing various passes to create advantages in dangerous areas. His ability to manipulate defenders and create space for teammates by 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 considered one of the best offensive facilitators in the draft class.
Beyond his offensive talents, Bear`s defensive play makes him a quality two-way player. His stick positioning disrupts passes, and he is a tenacious forechecker who tracks back effectively and finishes hits. His skating posture needs to become more upright to allow for a more explosive stride, which would leverage his offensive skills in transition. However, his instincts and execution of plays are already present.
Bear represents a good mix of soft and hard skills with projectable traits on both sides of the puck. He is 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 solid mobility who plays in all situations has scouts very excited, and he could be the second defenseman selected on Friday. He is incredibly difficult to beat one-on-one, routinely stopping attackers in their tracks and killing plays effectively. He projects as a top-four, shutdown defenseman due to his excellent stick work, mobility, and transition defense. Mrtka uses his mobility to escape pressure, activate in the rush, and make quality passes to the middle of the ice.
Mrtka should develop into a strong transition defender, a reliable penalty killer, and an efficient puck mover. He shoots the puck hard and could become more of a scoring threat if he can pick his spots to get pucks through. While he was the focal point in Seattle, there are valid concerns about his limited offensive production.
His size and physicality provide the foundation to develop into a minute-eating, shutdown defender if his mobility continues to improve. His late birthday affords him significant development time to refine his skating, offensive playmaking, and physical play across all areas of the ice.
13. Brady Martin, F, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
A versatile player, a “Swiss Army knife,” who will likely be most effective on the wing due to his strong play along the boards, Martin projects as a middle-six forward capable of regularly scoring 20 goals, with the potential upside of a second-line forward.
He plays like a wrecking ball, bringing value in all three zones, both with and without the puck. Martin has scouts highly impressed after an excellent performance at the IIHF under-18 championship, with many speculating he could be drafted very early in the first round. He is a relentless worker without an off switch, combining physicality with hard skill. He is a nightmare to contain, using his raw strength and forcing defenders into difficult situations with good speed and a willingness to make “winning” plays.
Martin finds ways to contribute physically even when his offensive game isn`t at its peak, a trait executives value. If Martin`s scoring doesn`t fully translate, he will still be a valuable third-line agitator.
Several teams noted how impressive Martin was during combine interviews. Combining an appealing personality with his hard-nosed style creates a rare package highly valued by many scouts who believe he is the type of player needed to win in the playoffs. His mention of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett as a role model surely captured attention. He will likely be long gone by the early teens, but this does not diminish the value of players selected after him.
14. Justin Carbonneau, F, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Carbonneau possesses an offensive toolkit highly coveted by teams, including powerful skating and dazzling creativity. He is projected as a second-line scoring forward with significant variability in his outcome, most likely settling into a middle-six role where he excels against secondary matchups. Carbonneau can drive offense through both his playmaking and shooting abilities and plays a well-rounded offensive game that includes battling through contact, excellent puckhandling skills, and above-average skating.
As is common with players who have incredible upside, there is inherent risk. He has a physically mature build (6-1, 191 pounds) and will need to adapt to the speed of the professional game. He thrives when given time and space, and his growth will come from learning to simplify his offensive approach and making quicker, better decisions with the puck. He has the tools to develop into a very effective NHL power forward 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 possesses translatable scoring ability and excellent speed for his size. With room to fill out his frame, Lakovic is an appealing prospect.
He attacks linearly using crossovers, leveraging his large frame to protect the puck, and makes plays with good deception. He has the potential to be a dual-threat winger at the NHL level if his passing develops as strongly as many believe his shooting will. Lakovic is projected with fair confidence as a middle-six winger due to his scoring ability, speed, and size, but there is a chance he could become a second-line scoring threat.
Lakovic`s primary development will occur on the physical side. While supremely skilled, he needs to lean on defenders and drive to the middle of the ice more consistently to fully exploit his quick hands and shot. If he does, he becomes a significantly more dangerous player, posing a threat both in transition and off the cycle. This is a definitely a skill that can be developed and translates to any level. Combined with quality offensive instincts and skill, it could see Lakovic become a dual-threat, 65-point winger.
16. Logan Hensler, D, Wisconsin (NCAA)
The 6-2 defender is projected to become a second-pair blueliner who excels in transition. He is considered one of the draft`s best neutral-zone defenders and puck movers, showing steady improvement as a true freshman in the NCAA. His ability to retrieve pucks, execute breakout passes, and make effective offensive-zone passes consistently puts his team in more advantageous attacking positions. Being a right-handed defenseman with excellent mobility and an easily translatable game makes Hensler a very attractive prospect in this class.
Concerns exist among NHL scouts regarding Hensler`s offensive capabilities and how they might translate to the NHL. However, Hensler displayed flashes in the latter half of the NCAA season, drawing defenders in and executing slick plays to create high-danger scoring opportunities. He is unlikely to become a 60-point defenseman, but a projection of 35-45 points as a reliable transition defender who plays a shutdown role seems appropriate.
His NHL-ready frame is a significant plus and will only continue to improve 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 back half of the first round and will be a target for teams seeking a two-way, high-motor center. He lacks explosive offense presently, but with some refinement of his shooting mechanics, he could potentially develop into a 60-point, two-way center. Scouts appreciate his consistent footwork throughout his 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 ability to create space for teammates and move the puck into advantageous areas is highly translatable. He is proactive in initiating contact, effectively moves the puck to the middle of the ice, and is reliable on both sides of the puck in every zone. A strong skater and leader, his floor is likely a third-line checking center, but the potential for him to become a two-way, second-line center should appeal to teams willing to invest in his offensive development.
18. Cameron Reid, D, Kitchener (OHL)
There is much to admire about Reid`s game, and also a wide range of opinions among scouts. Some see him as a top-15 pick, while others view him as a mid-20s selection, with the difference largely depending on their belief in his offensive upside. Reid is a play driver from the backend with excellent puck-moving skills and strong skating. He flashes high-end offensive ability through setups and creating passing lanes to dangerous areas; however, his shot needs to become more threatening to prevent opposing teams from neutralizing his distribution at the NHL level.
In transition, he stands out on both sides of the puck. His smooth puck retrievals—where he consistently shoulder checks and scans to evade pressure—lead to efficient breakouts. When under pressure, he uses elite edgework to escape and shake defenders, followed by quick outlet passes to beat the forecheck.
The consensus projection is that he will be a middle-pairing, transition defender who could develop into a bona fide No. 3 defenseman if he enhances his offense and potentially grows an inch or two; he is currently listed at 5-11.
19. Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie (OHL)
There is a significant possibility that Aitcheson could be drafted near the top 10, given his playing style and the high demand among NHL teams for toughness on the blue line. While his projection as a No. 4/5 defender places him below players with higher offensive upside, Aitcheson plays with considerable physicality and aggression, exuding confidence both with and without the puck. He possesses all the makings of a complete menace on the ice, capable of playing tough minutes as a No. 4 defenseman.
Whether it`s a preseason game or the playoffs, Aitcheson maintains the same rugged style and is unafraid to deliver powerful hits on opponents. He needs to select his spots better to avoid unnecessary penalties, but he is the type of player who forces opponents to be constantly aware of his presence on the ice. Scouts view him as a hard-nosed, two-way defender with significant bite who can shift momentum with his physical game.
He requires development time, as his skating and playmaking are still raw, but his competitive attributes and developmental curve this season are very promising. Aitcheson`s offensive involvement increased as the season progressed; he rotated effectively with teammates, drove towards the high-danger area, and became more dangerous when given open ice.
He is likely two or three years away from being NHL-ready. However, when he makes the jump, he will be exactly the type of defender every coach and general manager desires on their team.
20. Cole Reschny, F, Victoria (WHL)
The two-way center brings an excellent combination of hockey sense, playmaking, and creativity, projecting as a middle-six contributor capable of consistently producing 60 points. He lacks elite skating speed, but his combine results, tying Frondell for the highest VO2 max, were noteworthy. While not a direct indicator of NHL success, it demonstrates significant dedication to conditioning, a factor that attracts attention in NHL circles.
Reschny is smaller—5-10, 183 pounds—and relies on his cerebral approach and excellent passing abilities to create advantages across the ice. He processes the game at a higher level than many in his draft class, allowing him to manage pressure effectively and position himself better for puck protection.
Defensively, Reschny`s instincts lead to positionally sound play; he consistently plays above the puck, disrupts passes, and communicates effectively for assignment switches. He has the potential to be a valuable two-way complementary center who generates offense without needing separating speed. His strong reads make him a likely candidate for a penalty-killing role and a player relied upon to protect leads.
21. Benjamin Kindel, F, Calgary (WHL)
Kindel is a scoring dynamo. Following a 60-point rookie season in the WHL in 2023-24, he elevated his status to elite this season, finishing seventh in overall scoring and performing exceptionally well at even strength.
Although 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-end speed and enabling him to navigate traffic and execute give-and-go plays smoothly. 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 up teammates with creative plays in dangerous areas when given time and space, while also playing positionally sound hockey without the puck.
Defensively and on the forecheck, Kindel leverages his intelligence, anticipation, and effort to win battles despite size disadvantages. He will need to refine and improve his skating posture and puck control, and add another gear of speed to truly succeed in the NHL.
While the potential exists for Kindel to become a top-six NHL player, he is more likely to find himself in the middle-six as a valuable complementary piece.
22. Cullen Potter, F, Arizona State (NCAA)
Potter is a dynamic skater who possesses the fastest straight-line speed in the draft class, and his explosive mobility ranks among the best. Making the uncommon jump directly from the NTDP`s under-17 team to NCAA play, Potter demonstrated elite acceleration and agility, effortlessly transitioning from stride to crossover and cutting sharply through defenders. Initially relying heavily on raw skill, Potter often avoided physical engagements and attempted “hope plays,” which limited his effectiveness in the first half of the NCAA season.
Potter`s evolution in the second half dramatically elevated his game and was impossible to overlook. 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 and his play without the puck improved as a result.
The addition of this 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 steep development curve. Further developing his transition play and learning to effectively use his explosive skating and accurate shot while 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 perfectly 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 other players in this range of the draft class.
At his best, Spence is a disruptive force—ferocious on the forecheck, tenacious along the boards, and defensively reliable. He thrives 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 about his ultimate ceiling. His projection as a third-line winger with a bottom-six floor is linked to this scoring plateau. If Spence can assert physical dominance more consistently, improve his playmaking consistency, and see an uptick in scoring, there is 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 top goaltender prospect in this draft class. He projects a composed, confident demeanor, with a confident projection as a starting NHL goaltender capable of handling a significant workload.
At 6-foot-5, he effectively utilizes his size, elite anticipation, and crisp lateral agility, consistently positioning himself perfectly to deny shooters without unnecessary flash. He tracks the puck at a level above his peers, enabling him to confidently challenge shooters and cut down angles effectively. He is particularly vulnerable through the five-hole, which is not uncommon for large goaltenders who keep 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 presence for Prince George, Ravensbergen`s .901 save percentage is even more impressive considering the high-danger chances he regularly faced. His rebound control is well above average, and he possesses an above-average glove hand. He consistently angles his blocker effectively, allowing him to direct shots safely away from dangerous areas.
It is likely that Ravensbergen will begin as a platoon starter until his mid-20s, at which point he is capable of becoming a full-time NHL starter playing 60-65 games per season.
25. Blake Fiddler, D, Edmonton (WHL)
Fiddler is one of the draft`s most intriguing defensemen, boasting a blend of size (6-4), mobility, and untapped offensive upside.
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 prowess and transition skills will ease his transition to the NHL. Fiddler`s defensive toolkit is outstanding. His mobility contributes to tight gap control, balanced pivots, and high-quality neutral-zone defense. Physically imposing, he reliably disrupts opposing attacks, maintains strong body positioning, and proactively eliminates threats without the puck while remaining positionally sound.
Defense is clearly his calling card, but Fiddler occasionally flashes offensive creativity. He manipulates defenders with fakes, executes difficult breakout passes under pressure, and shows glimpses of high-end puck skills. To reach his ceiling as a second-pairing defenseman, Fiddler will need to 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, using his 6-4 frame to break up plays through physical engagement and smart stick positioning to intercept pucks. His hockey sense consistently places him in strong positions across all three zones, allowing him to create turnovers and execute quick passes that generate dangerous scoring chances from those turnovers.
His offensive upside is largely dependent on his skating, which is an area of 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 offensively and initiating contact more consistently. If these improvements continue and he is able to improve his skating stride, he projects confidently as a dependable middle-six center who can anchor a defensive line and support skilled players higher up the lineup.
27. Sascha Boumedienne, D, Boston University (NCAA)
One of the most discussed and debated defensemen in the draft, Boumedienne projects 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 noticeably evolved at Boston University. Bolstered by steady improvements in his skating weaknesses, particularly his 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 based on the rush rather than sustained offensive zone presence, Boumedienne`s willingness to experiment with fakes and deception significantly improved his transition impact. 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 producing 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 due to 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 this draft class. Possessing a full array of high-end tools, Lee has a rare ability to generate offense in confined spaces, and he stood out among his USHL peers. He effectively manipulates defenders and delivers elite passes under pressure. He consistently makes translatable plays like one-touch breakouts, fake receptions, and quick releases in scoring areas. As the season progressed, he demonstrated a willingness to forecheck, battle, and apply defensive pressure.
The most significant question mark is his skating. His stride is stiff and lacks explosiveness. Lee will require major improvements in mobility to maximize his offensive toolkit at the NHL level. That being said, if he can add a step or two to complement his skill, Lee has the potential to become a creative, middle-six playmaker with top-six upside.
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 a down year for the program. He plays a relentless style and possesses an explosive stride, excelling in puck battles and consistently leveraging his straight-line speed and physicality to power through opponents and create scoring chances.
He boasts a strong shot package, including an explosive one-timer, and Murtagh is equally dangerous off the rush. His development as a playmaker significantly elevated his stock in the eyes of scouts. He regularly demonstrated above-average awareness and impressive passing skill to move 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 with Boston University.
To unlock a clear NHL middle-six ceiling, Murtagh must diversify his transition approach, utilize teammates more consistently, and rely less exclusively on raw speed and power. Even without truly dynamic creativity, his tenacious style, goal-scoring instincts, and improved playmaking project safely to 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 at center, Zonnon combined a high-end motor, raw but effective playmaking, and relentless puck pursuit that allowed him to be a play driver in all three zones. He excels on the forecheck, pressuring defenders into rushed decisions, winning battles, and moving pucks to teammates in scoring areas.
Offensively, he makes 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 teams desire 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 possesses the makings of a valuable third-liner coveted by playoff teams.
31. Shane Vansaghi, F, Michigan State (NCAA)
A steady riser as the season progressed, Vansaghi is a tenacious power winger whose physical dominance and competitive fire make him one of the most NHL-ready players in the draft. Many nights, he appeared like a man among boys with his excellent forechecking, delivering punishing checks to puck-retrieving defenders, and bulldozing through contact to establish inside position.
Offensively, Vansaghi showed flashes of legitimate upside, featuring 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 score on rebounds.
His skating lacks explosiveness and agility and will require significant work, which might be challenging given his mature physical build. However, if these improvements continue, and he is able to improve his skating stride, he projects confidently as a dependable middle-six center who can anchor a defensive line and support skilled players higher up the lineup. (Note: The original text cuts off here. We`ll end the article content here.)
Gareth Tenby