Each NHL draft class consistently reveals late-round picks who defy expectations and carve out significant careers. While improved scouting and analytics help teams identify these talents sooner, some hidden gems inevitably slip through the cracks and emerge from the later rounds.
Finding Hall of Fame-caliber players like Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Lundqvist, or Brett Hull in the late rounds is rare nowadays. Nevertheless, skilled, smaller players still tend to be drafted later than their talent might suggest. Take Lane Hutson, the recent Calder Trophy winner; drafted 62nd overall in 2022, he wasn`t a *very* late pick, but many believe he deserved to be chosen much earlier.
Some recent examples of successful late-round selections include Troy Terry (148th in 2015), Andrew Mangiapane (166th, 2015), Jesper Bratt (162nd, 2016), Brandon Hagel (159th, 2016), and Mark Stone (178th, 2010). Concerns existed about all of them during their draft year, whether related to size, skating ability, or doubts about their game translating to the NHL. Yet, each player has significantly surpassed their draft projections and even represented their countries internationally. Your draft position doesn`t define your potential or limit your success. Earlier picks often receive more opportunities initially, but players chosen later can certainly forge a path to impactful NHL careers.
A common characteristic among successful late-round picks is their elite ability in at least one key area. As one NHL executive put it, “they possess a separating skill that differentiates them from others.”
In this year`s draft class, several players stand out as potential diamonds in the rough. Historically, a player drafted after the third round has less than a 3% chance of playing 200 NHL games, meaning likely only four or five players selected after pick No. 96 will reach that milestone. The probability of such a player becoming a significant impact player (excluding goaltenders) is even lower, under 1.5%. While these are long shots, certain players in this class possess distinct separating skills that could significantly boost their chances of success.
Cameron Schmidt, RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
Although Cameron Schmidt is ranked much higher in public scouting reports, consistently appearing as a first-rounder for most of the season, NHL teams I`ve consulted with don`t hold the same view. Many scouts anticipate Schmidt being selected between the third and fifth rounds, primarily due to his smaller stature relative to the average NHL player, listed at 5-foot-7.
Nonetheless, Schmidt`s potential as a second-line scoring winger, reminiscent of Alex Debrincat, should intrigue teams. It`s understandable that teams might hesitate to use an early pick on a player of his size, given the rarity of successful NHL careers for players under 5-9. However, Schmidt is arguably the draft`s fastest player and possesses an elite shot. He demonstrates multiple `separating skills` sought by scouts, with one commenting that if he were 6-1, he might be considered a top 10-15 prospect.
Scoring 40 goals in 61 games makes him one of the top goal scorers available in this draft class. His scoring versatility is notable: he can finish off the rush, bury one-timers, capitalize on net-front opportunities, and execute a smooth yet powerful catch-and-release shot. It`s highly probable that Schmidt will be a leading scorer in the CHL over the next two seasons, thanks to his exceptional speed and comprehensive finishing abilities.
Alex Debrincat, for comparison, is 5-8. If Schmidt reaches that height or even 5-9, there`s a genuine possibility he develops into a consistent goal-scorer at the NHL level. Instead of prioritizing size or physicality, taking a calculated risk on a player who already possesses elite talent and might grow could yield significant rewards for a team.
Jacob Rombach, D, Lincoln Stars (USHL)
A defenseman standing nearly 6-7 with formidable physical attributes and the potential to become a reliable shutdown defender will be highly attractive to NHL teams. While Jacob Rombach may lack some of the offensive flair often seen in top defensemen, he has a clear pathway to becoming a valuable No. 4 or No. 5 defenseman in the NHL.
Defensively, Rombach exhibits one of the draft`s most complete skill sets, which is expected to further improve as he hones these abilities. He demonstrates impressive puck retrieval skills, effectively scanning for threats to proactively escape pressure situations. He employs head fakes to evade forecheckers and makes simple, efficient passes when clear lanes emerge.
When defending, he effectively utilizes his large frame to disrupt plays on the rush, shut down opponents along the boards, and make it challenging for teams to generate offense from the cycle. He isn`t overly physical, which is easily coachable at his size, and scouts appreciate that he doesn`t get caught out of position chasing big hits. When closing gaps on players across the ice, he leads with a strong stick and smothers them, forcing turnovers or dump-ins.
If his skating and physical engagement develop further, Rombach possesses the foundational tools to become an effective shutdown defender capable of playing penalty kill minutes and handling secondary defensive assignments.
David Bedkowski, D, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Traditional hockey minds tend to favor David Bedkowski because of his affinity for physical play. He represents a throwback defenseman who thrives on intense, violent engagement. A formidable presence at nearly 6-5 and 215 pounds, Bedkowski is arguably the most punishing defender in the entire draft class. While sheer physicality doesn`t always guarantee NHL success, the Florida Panthers` recent playoff template will likely prompt executives to consider Bedkowski`s capacity to combine highly effective transition defense with inflicting significant physical impact on opponents.
He is recognized as one of the draft`s best at defending zone entries, and if he can improve his timing and decision-making regarding when to step up and deliver contact, there is a realistic path for him to become a reliable bottom-pair defenseman.
His offensive ceiling might not be high enough for a No. 4 or No. 5 role, but teams increasingly value depth and physical toughness for playoff success, and Bedkowski has the potential to develop into a defender who can consistently provide that specific contribution.
Viktor Klingsell, LW, Skelleftea AIK (J20)
Another prospect with the potential to be a late-round steal is Viktor Klingsell, who stood out at the World Under-18 Championships. While he didn`t match Jesper Bratt`s production levels in Swedish pro leagues, he notably outperformed Bratt when competing against players in his own age group. Given the similarities in height, high-end playmaking ability, and vision, it`s not surprising that some view Klingsell as a potential `Bratt lite` at the NHL level. He lacks physicality, which is somewhat expected given his build, but his offensive instincts and overall toolkit are among the best available among European skaters.
The primary concern surrounding Klingsell is his pace of play. He has a boom-or-bust type of projection. If he reaches his potential, he could become a second-line offensive facilitator, consistently logging 50-plus assists annually. If not, he`s likely to remain a very good player in Sweden`s SHL. This is precisely the kind of calculated risk teams are willing to take in the later rounds, especially when speed is the main question mark. Developing skating and pace is often considered more attainable than acquiring the natural offensive instincts and exceptional playmaking abilities that Klingsell already possesses.
Filip Ekberg, LW, Ottawa 67`s (OHL)
Another Swedish forward with the potential to make a team very happy is Filip Ekberg, a dual-threat player. The first half of his season was hampered by illness and a limited role. However, as the calendar turned, Ekberg`s performance surged, highlighted by a standout showing at the U18s where he registered 18 points in seven games and earned an invitation to Sweden`s World Junior summer camp.
There`s strong reason to believe Ekberg is on the verge of a significant scoring breakout in the OHL, which could elevate his projection to a middle-six scorer at the NHL level.
Ekberg is a well-rounded forward who excels at anticipating and reading plays, facilitating offense, and boasts an excellent catch-and-release shot. While he may lack the dynamic individual skill some scouts prefer, he demonstrated legitimate flashes of high-end ability when healthy at the U18s. If he can improve his skating, he possesses all the characteristics of a smaller player who can succeed in the NHL, particularly in a secondary scoring and power-play role.
Aidan Lane, RW, Saint Andrew`s College/Brampton Steelheads (OHL)
Had it not been for his impressive performance in the OHL late in the season, Aidan Lane`s NHL draft projection might not exist. A rule change allowing players from Saint Andrew`s College to play in the CHL enabled him to join the Brampton Steelheads for the final 13 games, where he recorded a point per game pace.
Projecting prep school players is inherently difficult due to limited sample sizes against higher competition. However, the high-energy winger looked every bit the part playing in a top-six role for Brampton. With his strength, physicality, and ability to generate offense, he has the potential to develop into a power winger in a bottom-six role at the NHL level.
He demonstrated smooth transitions, effectively drew defenders to create space, and made positive plays with the puck. He also utilized his physical attributes to overpower more experienced OHL players. Lane possesses the work ethic, physical tools, and showed promising offensive flashes that could make him a high-value pick beyond the fourth round. Improving his speed and explosiveness will be necessary for him to effectively leverage his tools for forechecking and creating offense in a secondary role at the NHL level.
His decision to play NCAA hockey at Harvard provides him with ample time to develop against strong amateur competition.
L.J. Mooney, RW, USNTDP (USHL)
Another diminutive winger, L.J. Mooney, is one of my personal favorite prospects in this draft class. He is a dynamic skater whose puck-handling skills are capable of exciting fans. At 5-7, possessing multiple separating skills should be sufficient for a team to take a chance on him in the middle rounds.
Mooney is a relentless player who constantly captures the viewer`s attention. His blistering speed is immediately apparent, especially when combined with his fantastic puck skills. There is significant potential for him to become a transition nightmare for opposing defensemen. For this to materialize, Mooney will need to enhance his ability to facilitate offense and improve his reading of the game. He must utilize his elite skating and puck handling to attack the middle of the ice more effectively, creating high-danger scoring opportunities.
Given his size and questions regarding his playmaking, he`s close to being a boom-or-bust prospect. However, many players with his level of raw skill lack the internal drive and motor to compete consistently. Mooney leaves no doubt about his competitive will, demonstrated by his fearless play, consistent high pace, and willingness to contribute on both sides of the puck.
If a team holds multiple second or third-round selections and is looking for a dynamic skater who could potentially become a legitimate contributor—teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, and Detroit Red Wings fit this description—taking a chance on Mooney would be a worthwhile gamble.
