Updated Rankings for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft After the U18 World Championships

Sports news » Updated Rankings for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft After the U18 World Championships

9 months ago 139

With the conclusion of the IIHF Under-18 World Championships and the NHL Draft Lottery now behind us, it`s time to unveil the latest big board for the 2025 NHL Draft, scheduled for June.

Unlike the initial version, these updated rankings are not based solely on statistical model outputs. They incorporate significant input from scouting viewings, insights from scouts, and an evaluation of how players` styles and skills are expected to translate to the demanding NHL level.

Several players have significantly improved their draft position due to enhanced projections, unique skill sets, and promising upside. Conversely, some prospects have seen their rankings drop due to concerns regarding the translatability of their skills, inconsistencies in performance, and questions about their ability to impact games when their primary strengths aren`t shining.

This year`s draft class presents considerable variability. There`s a generally accepted top two, followed by two more prospects just below them. After that, the rankings become much more open. Teams selecting in the top 10 face interesting choices: they can opt for a player with a high floor but perhaps lower upside, or a high-risk, high-reward “unicorn” prospect. These rankings weigh these factors, and it`s important to note this is a ranking board, not a mock draft predicting specific team selections.

Considering all these elements, here are the top 32 players for the 2025 NHL Draft, along with some honorable mentions.

1. Matthew Schaefer

D, Erie Otters (OHL)

The defenseman for the Erie Otters is widely projected to become a true cornerstone No. 1 blueliner for many years. A dynamic force at both ends of the rink, the 6-2 defender displays effortless skating and utilizes his agility effectively to neutralize opponents in one-on-one situations, while simultaneously generating offense through impressive rush capabilities.

Across the league, team executives and scouts see him as a future elite NHL defenseman and a foundational piece for a team aiming for a championship. With the ability to control play from the back end, handle tough defensive assignments, and quarterback a power play, Schaefer possesses the tools to potentially become a top-10 defenseman in the entire league.

2. Michael Misa

C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Misa, granted exceptional status in the OHL, delivered one of the most impressive goal-scoring performances in recent memory, lighting the lamp 62 times in just 65 games. He is confidently projected as a top-line forward with the potential to consistently achieve a point-per-game pace at the NHL level.

Misa`s offensive instincts are truly elite. He processes the game exceptionally well and executes plays at high speed. He appears close to NHL readiness and has the potential to develop into an elite top-line center if his progression continues along its current trajectory.

His defensive game saw significant improvement this season, and combined with his explosive speed and offensive firepower, Misa profiles as a core player to build a Stanley Cup contender around.

3. James Hagens

C, Boston College Eagles (NCAA)

A highly skilled center, Hagens is projected as a potential top-line center or one of the league`s best second-line centers. He brings a strong work ethic paired with excellent speed and two-way ability that should allow him to effectively drive play in the NHL. The professional details in his game, such as supporting the puck, winning battles, and defensive anticipation, will help smooth his transition to the pros while he further develops his offensive impact.

Hagens likely requires another season at Boston College to further refine his decision-making and add a more dynamic offensive dimension to solidify his status as a top-line NHL center. His understanding of spacing and anticipation abilities are particularly noteworthy among his peers. He shows a blend of playmaking skill and two-way capability reminiscent of players like Clayton Keller and Matty Beniers.

4. Porter Martone

RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)

The 6-3 right winger is projected as a high-quality second-line player possessing a competitive edge akin to players like Corey Perry and Tom Wilson. A big, physically imposing forward, Martone is a dual-threat offensive player capable of both scoring himself and setting up teammates. His competitive nature suggests he will be an effective agitator and physically assert himself against opponents. He needs to channel his competitiveness and physicality more effectively and adjust his skating posture for greater efficiency.

His rare combination of scoring touch, size, and hard-nosed skill makes him a very appealing prospect. While his most certain projection is as a top-six forward, Martone has a legitimate opportunity to become a top-line winger if his skating undergoes further improvement.

5. Roger McQueen

C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

Roger McQueen is one of the most debated prospects, partly due to injury concerns (having played only 17 games this season) and partly because of his exceptional natural talent.

McQueen is often described as a `unicorn` because he`s a 6-5 center who skates with surprising speed and mobility, characteristics typically associated with smaller players, despite some unusual mechanics which might be related to adjusting to his size. His projection as an elite top-line center is uncertain due to his limited playing time. Elite right-handed centers are uncommon in the NHL, and McQueen`s size and willingness to physically influence play add significant value. He exhibits professional defensive habits that are translatable to the NHL, alongside a unique offensive upside.

He represents a classic high-risk, high-reward situation. McQueen needs to compete against tougher opposition to develop his ability to protect himself and the puck, and to generate offense against larger opponents. If developed properly, he could evolve into a formidable two-way player in the NHL.

6. Anton Frondell

C/RW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Frondell is a versatile two-way forward comfortable playing both center and right wing. His adaptability is highly attractive 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 ever for an under-18 player in Allsvenskan history, giving him a confident projection as a first-line NHL forward.

He is a highly intelligent player who effectively dissects defenders in one-on-one situations and finds seams in defensive coverage in the offensive zone. The subtle details of Frondell`s game are easily translatable, including excellent forechecking, a willingness to attack the high-danger areas, and high-end anticipation on both offense and defense.

Frondell has demonstrated the ability to drive play against senior-level opponents in the Allsvenskan, a trait that has translated well to the NHL in the past. He is projected to produce between 75 and 85 points per season. His play style is well-suited for the NHL, and scouts are enthusiastic about his potential to step into the league within the next 18 months. His combination of two-way ability, great anticipation, and incredible puck skills make him one of the most captivating prospects in the draft.

7. Jackson Smith

D, Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Smith is a large, physical defenseman considered the consensus second-best blueliner in this draft class. As a purely defensive player, Smith possesses all the attributes of a top-four shutdown guy. He defends rushes very effectively, closes gaps quickly, and dictates the direction of play in transition. His offensive game began to develop more noticeably towards the end of the season, and he had a strong showing at the IIHF under-18 tournament. Given the critical importance of transition defense in a matchup role, Smith has a genuine chance to reach his ceiling projection as a No. 3 matchup defender.

Smith exhibits a promising blend of skating, size, and composure. His development hinges on utilizing his excellent mobility to prevent opponent rush offense, becoming a more consistent offensive contributor, and continuing to refine his decision-making under pressure. If Smith can effectively drive play on both sides of the puck in transition, he has the potential to become a No. 2 defenseman.

8. Victor Eklund

LW, Djurgardens (Allsvenskan)

Eklund is projected as a top-six forward with a solid chance of becoming a top-line contributor. Despite some concerns regarding his size, Eklund`s playing style is highly adaptable to the NHL game. He plays with a much bigger presence than his measurements might suggest, displaying a high-end motor and excellent forechecking ability. Should he grow physically, a phenomenon observed in other prospects, Eklund`s projection becomes more confident as a potential 70-point producer.

Eklund excels in transition, attacking defenders with speed and fearlessness, driving towards the net and using his body positioning effectively to win or protect pucks. His smaller stature has compelled him to learn how to shield the puck with excellent body control. His play away from the puck is notably mature and should quickly earn him trust from NHL coaches. He possesses the potential to be a game-changer in the NHL, and there are strong indications that his blend of hard-nosed play and soft skill will translate seamlessly to the highest level.

9. Caleb Desnoyers

C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

Desnoyers might be selected higher than ninth overall because he stands out as one of the best two-way players available in this draft. He has been described as a coach`s dream player, capable of taking on either an offensive or checking assignment and executing it consistently. Desnoyers is projected to be a quality second-line center, with a significant chance of developing into a first-line player.

He is a cerebral player with excellent playmaking capabilities. His game isn`t necessarily flashy or highlight-reel material; instead, he is consistently effective and makes smart decisions with the puck. In short, he is exceptionally reliable. As one scouting director put it: “He`s the type of player you win with.” Some scouts have quietly drawn comparisons to esteemed two-way centers like Patrice Bergeron and Jonathan Toews.

10. Jake O`Brien

C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

O`Brien is projected to become a point-producing top-six center, with an outside chance of reaching top-line status. The right-handed pivot is one of the premier playmakers in the draft class, consistently creating high-danger scoring opportunities. O`Brien`s elite playmaking skills would become even more impactful if he can improve his skating speed.

O`Brien`s two-way game has steadily improved throughout the season, demonstrated through effective puck support, strong defensive tracking, and quality stick positioning. While he lacks dynamic skating, he plays a projectable two-way game. There is some risk due to his lighter frame compared to other centers available, but O`Brien is expected to comfortably settle into a top-six role as a point producer in the NHL.

11. Carter Bear

C/LW, Everett Silvertips (WHL)

Bear is the type of player highly sought after by teams looking for high-end skill and playmaking ability. He`s versatile and projects as a 65- to 75-point second-line forward, with most projections placing him as a full-time winger. He is an excellent playmaker with good hands in tight spaces, making him a threat around the net, and is considered one of the best offensive facilitators available in this draft.

Beyond his offensive talents, Bear possesses professional defensive habits that should translate effectively. His skating posture needs adjustment to become more upright, which would allow him to develop a more explosive stride and better leverage his skills. Bear represents a good balance of soft and hard skills combined with reliable defensive traits, profiling as an ideal second-line player who could thrive in a matchup role.

12. Brady Martin

C/W, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

Martin has generated considerable buzz among scouts following his excellent performance at the IIHF under-18 tournament, where he tallied 11 points in seven games. He`s a relentless workhorse who constantly pushes the pace, bringing a valuable blend of physicality and hard skill. Martin is projected as a middle-six forward capable of scoring 20 goals, with the potential to reach second-line status. He`s a versatile “Swiss Army Knife” type player, likely most effective on the wing due to his strength along the boards.

While many top prospects disappear when their high-skill game isn`t clicking, Martin consistently finds ways to contribute physically, and these traits are highly translatable. If his scoring production doesn`t fully translate, he still projects as a valuable member of a third line. His hard-nosed style is increasingly rare in today`s NHL, making Martin`s play style appealing to many scouts who believe he`s the type of complementary player needed for playoff success.

13. Justin Carbonneau

RW, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

Carbonneau possesses a desirable set of attributes sought by teams, including powerful skating and a dynamic attacking presence. He is projected as a top-six forward with significant variance in outcomes, most likely settling in as a complementary middle-six player. Carbonneau can drive offense through his playmaking and skating ability, and although he lacks one single standout elite talent, he plays a well-rounded offensive game that includes battling through contact, solid puck skills, and a decent shot.

Carbonneau is a player with considerable upside, but his projection inherently carries risk. He excels when given time and space, and his development will involve learning to simplify his offensive attacks, drive more consistently to the net-front area, and play effectively off his teammates. With a few years of development, he has the tools to become an effective power forward in the NHL.

14. Radim Mrtka

D, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

A 6-6, right-handed defenseman with good mobility who can play in all situations is a prospect that excites scouts considerably. Mrtka is confidently projected as a top-four shutdown defenseman due to his excellent stick work, mobility, and strong transition defense. Mrtka should develop into a reliable transition defender, a solid penalty killer, and a steady presence on the shorthanded unit.

He currently lacks the offensive flair scouts typically desire in a top-pair defenseman, but his skating, size, and hockey intelligence provide him with the foundation to develop into a dependable, high-minute, shutdown defender. His relatively late birthdate offers a significant runway for development to refine his offensive playmaking, improve his first pass out of the zone, and enhance his overall understanding of how best to leverage his physical attributes.

15. Logan Hensler

D, Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)

The 6-2 defender is projected with relative confidence as a second-pairing defenseman. Hensler is notably difficult to beat defensively because he moves well and maintains excellent gap control. He doesn`t possess a dynamic offensive trait, but he has shown promising flashes when joining the rush. There are moments of offensive skill, like head fakes and using his mobility to evade defenders, which, if developed, would be crucial to solidifying him as a true two-way defenseman.

Hensler is considered a longer-term project who likely needs three years before he`s ready to make an impact in the NHL. His ability to make good decisions under pressure and consistently execute quality plays will be the key factors determining his success as a high-end prospect. There`s a lot to like about his game; his mobility and transition defense are expected to translate well, but he lacks the high-end offensive upside seen in some other defensemen in this draft class.

16. Lynden Lakovic

LW, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

The 6-4 left winger possesses translatable scoring ability and excellent speed for a player his size. He attacks using his large frame to protect the puck and makes plays using good deception. He has the potential to become a dual-threat winger if he can develop his playmaking and decision-making skills. Lakovic is projected to be a middle-six winger with fair confidence due to his combination of scoring ability, speed, and size.

Lakovic`s development will focus on the physical side and refining his decision-making. He needs to more consistently lean on defenders and drive forcefully towards the net area to take full advantage of his quick hands and shot. Lakovic has quality offensive upside that confidently projects him as an NHL player, with the potential to become a 60-point producer.

17. Braeden Cootes

C, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

A right-handed center, Cootes was a standout performer at the under-18 world championships. He is projected to be a middle-six player with significant value on both offense and defense. His floor is likely a third-line checking center, drawing comparisons to players like Yanni Gourde. Cootes possesses excellent speed that enables him to dictate the pace and drive play. He anticipates the game at a high level, allowing him to effectively utilize his speed at even strength and on the penalty kill.

Cootes is on a longer development path and needs to add more strength to truly become a quality NHL center. His relentless pursuit of the puck and strong playmaking qualities make him a desirable asset in this year`s draft. There is significant potential in his overall skill set, and with patient development, he could evolve into a solid second-line contributor.

18. Kashawn Aitcheson

D, Barrie Colts (OHL)

There`s a distinct possibility that Aitcheson could be selected in the top 10 given his style of play, but his current projection as a No. 4/5 defender places him below other players with higher perceived offensive upside. Aitcheson plays with significant intensity and aggression, while also exuding confidence with and without the puck. He has all the makings of becoming a truly disruptive force who can handle tough minutes, projecting as a solid No. 4 defender.

Scouts view him as a hard-nosed two-way defender who brings significant physical bite and can shift momentum with his physical presence.

He requires development time, as his skating mechanics and playmaking are still raw, but his competitive attributes and the progress shown this season are very promising. Aitcheson`s involvement in offensive plays increased as the season progressed, but he is likely two to three years away from being ready to step into the NHL. When he arrives, he embodies the type of defender every coach and general manager desires on their team.

19. Cameron Schmidt

RW, Vancouver Giants (WHL)

While size isn`t the sole determining factor, it is exceptionally rare for a player under 5-9 to establish themselves in the NHL. I anticipate Schmidt may fall lower than 19th in the draft due to his listed height of 5-7.

However, all other analysis and models rank Schmidt as a top-15 player, identifying him with boom-or-bust potential as a second-line winger. He possesses blistering speed and excellent puck-handling abilities, making him a dangerous offensive threat.

Scoring 40 goals in the WHL is a difficult feat. Only three players under 19 reached this mark this season (Schmidt, alongside Gavin McKenna and Carter Bear). Schmidt has strong offensive instincts and needs to improve the efficiency of his play selection to effectively translate his game to the NHL level. He can be somewhat of an agitator and engage physically, but to reach his ceiling, he must round out his play away from the puck and become more consistently impactful on every shift.

20. Benjamin Kindel

RW, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)

Kindel posted excellent statistics in the WHL, recording 99 points in 65 games. The right-winger possesses notable skill and terrific hockey sense. Kindel is projected as a middle-six player, with the most likely outcome being a third-line winger. He doesn`t have top-end blazing speed, but he is agile and difficult to contain due to his elusive style. He needs to refine how he applies his skill, as it currently lacks a truly dynamic element. Adding strength will significantly help improve his puck protection and ability to drive to the net front to create scoring chances.

Defensively, Kindel offers tremendous value. He forechecks and backchecks effectively, blocks passing lanes, and wins his fair share of puck battles. There is genuine value as a checker and penalty killer that will translate to the NHL level. He consistently competes for pucks and makes the game difficult for opponents with his pace of play. If his scoring translates well, he will likely be a 50-point, two-way player. If not, a 40-point, two-way checker who excels on the penalty kill will still be a valuable complementary piece in the NHL.

21. Cameron Reid

D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

A defenseman with a slighter build, Reid is a fast and agile skater who frequently activates into the offensive rush. Reid possesses upside as a top-four defender if he can further develop his offensive traits, particularly his playmaking. His skating allows him to generate time and space, evade forecheckers effectively, and put opposing defenders in challenging positions. The crucial next step for him is to utilize the space and passing lanes he creates to facilitate offense more effectively.

Defensively, Reid is an excellent defender against the rush thanks to his superb skating ability and good stick work. He expertly guides attacking players towards the boards with his stick and uses his skating to disrupt offensive transitions. In his own zone, his stick timing is perfect for lifting opponents` sticks as the puck arrives, deflecting shots away, and blocking passing lanes. The potential for higher-end play exists due to his skating, but reaching a top-four level will require patience and development.

22. Cole Reschny

LW, Victoria Royals (WHL)

Reschny might see his name called higher on draft day than his current ranking suggests, particularly after a standout performance at the under-18 world championships. Few players have climbed draft boards as rapidly as Reschny in the second half of the season, largely fueled by his offensive production during the WHL playoffs. Reschny`s projection has elevated from a less confident third-line player outcome to a relatively confident middle-six forward.

While not as dynamically flashy as his point totals might imply, his anticipation and reading of the game are among the best in the draft class. He isn`t large, but he is effective when he physically engages and understands how to play through contact. His development will focus on adding speed and strength to complement his strong two-way ability, aiming to become a versatile “Swiss Army Knife” type player in the NHL capable of scoring 50 points.

23. Cullen Potter

LW, Arizona State Sun Devils (NCAA)

Potter had a strong freshman season in the NCAA, which is particularly impressive considering he didn`t turn 18 until halfway through the campaign. He showed consistent growth that culminated in an excellent performance at the under-18 world championships. His speed is already at an NHL level, making him one of the best skaters available in the draft. He understands how to effectively leverage his skating ability to pressure opponents, set the pace of play, and generate offense. He actively looks to drive into the high-danger areas, makes plays at top speed, and understands when to delay on the rush to allow plays to develop.

Potter is a dynamic skater who flashes moments of dynamic skill. His play away from the puck, both offensively and defensively, improved dramatically this season, which transformed him into a genuine play driver. He carries boom-bust potential, but if he reaches his ceiling, there is a top-six player there. The confidence in his projection has steadily increased throughout the season, and with two more NCAA seasons, Potter should be one of the top players at the collegiate level by the time he signs his entry-level NHL contract.

24. Malcolm Spence

LW, Erie Otters (OHL)

Spence falls out of the top half of the first round largely because other players have surpassed him, but his lack of dynamic ability combined with non-elite production for his draft position has affected his projection. His relentless work ethic, tenacity, and strong two-way ability give him a high floor as a likely NHL regular. However, his limited play-driving ability and playmaking skills suggest his offensive upside may be capped at a third-line forward role.

He isn`t a flashy player by any means, but he is consistently very effective. He is one of the most defensively responsible forwards in the draft, demonstrating a strong understanding of how to forecheck effectively to force turnovers. His tenacity is a trait that will translate well, and his shot is good enough to pose a threat from close range. Coaches highly value this type of player on their third lines during the playoffs, and Spence should develop into a solid complementary piece in the NHL.

25. Ivan Ryabkin

C, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

Ryabkin is a prospect subject to considerable debate and his position varies significantly across different draft boards. Depending on who you consult, opinions range from a potential second-line player to someone who might not make the NHL at all. This explains the wide variance in his projection models. He is most likely to become a depth NHL player, but there is a reasonable chance he develops into a middle-six forward with a physical presence who can score 15 to 20 goals.

When he is performing at his best, his upside is readily apparent. He is crafty, effectively identifying passing lanes and delivering accurate passes to create scoring opportunities. When Ryabkin uses his skating to drive towards the high-danger areas and create passing lanes, he is a very effective player. His physicality on both sides of the puck should translate well, potentially making him a good checking-line player with some creative scoring ability if he can develop his puck protection and inside-ice battling skills.

26. Joshua Ravensbergen

G, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

It is uncommon for a goaltender to be a consensus first-round pick, but Ravensbergen has earned that distinction. Teams are drawn to his 6-5 frame with long limbs and good flexibility. He is capable of covering significant portions of the net, and his ability to track the puck allows him to move proactively and position aggressively. His lateral movement is explosive while maintaining control, preventing him from over-sliding or being overly active. He is sharp in his crease management, calmly directing pucks and effectively communicating with his defensemen regarding coverage.

Ravensbergen, like many young goaltenders and even some NHLers, faces challenges with layered screens. However, his elite puck tracking enables him to stay a step ahead of the play, which minimizes erratic movements. This contributes to the aura of calmness that scouts often mention and is a trait that will serve him well as he works towards becoming an NHL starter.

27. Blake Fiddler

D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

There is a possibility that Fiddler could be selected higher than projected because he is a right-handed defenseman with NHL bloodlines (his father Vernon played 877 NHL games) and possesses an NHL-ready frame at 6-4, 210 pounds. As scouts and executives often say, “Those guys don`t grow on trees,” and Fiddler fits that rare mold.

He is a strong defender, effectively taking away time and space from opponents and making physical battles difficult for them. He strongly projects as an NHL player with a chance of becoming a solid No. 4 defenseman. Among scouting circles, there is belief he could even develop into a second-pairing defender given his extensive development runway and his physical play style that translates well.

Fiddler`s decision-making occasionally leaves something to be desired, but he is always engaged and actively involved, and can be taught to be more effective with his reads. His desire to make a difference and his package of plus skating, physical play, and size are attractive to teams. He is considered a project and will likely require three to four years of development to simplify his game and become an effective NHL defender.

28. Jack Murtagh

C/LW, U.S. National Team Development Program

The 6-1, versatile forward offers good value towards the end of the first round. Murtagh is confidently projected to become an NHL player, and scouts appreciate his non-flashy, high-motor game. He consistently puts forth maximum effort, plays at a high pace, and is physically involved. He is most likely to develop into a third-line forward, which suits his game style of being strong on the puck, winning puck battles, and creating chaos around the net.

Heading to Boston University will be beneficial for his overall development, particularly offensively. Murtagh has good playmaking ability, though it currently lacks creativity or dynamism. He is a hard-skill player, grinding his way to scoring chances in tough areas and out-battling opponents. This approach won`t always work against NHL defensemen, meaning developing some creativity and the ability to manipulate defenders will be crucial for translating his offense and becoming a well-rounded, two-way forward in the NHL.

29. Sascha Boumedienne

D, Boston University Terriers (NCAA)

Boumedienne played over half of his freshman NCAA season as a 17-year-old, making him the youngest player in the NCAA this season. His total of 13 points in 40 games isn`t the offensive production typically expected from a potential first-round pick, but against his peers at the under-18s, Boumedienne set a scoring record for defensemen and was named the tournament`s best defenseman.

His skating mechanics have improved, resulting in more explosive movements and the potential for more agile transitions. He is an offensive force, facilitating scoring chances by manipulating defenders, actively moving his feet, and creating passing lanes. When he gets the opportunity, his slap shot carries significant power and should be a valuable weapon in the NHL.

Boumedienne`s defensive transition game will need to improve for him to reach his ceiling as a second-pairing defender. Currently, he can effectively run a power play, initiate breakouts with clean passes, and create offense. His agility and ability to defend the high-danger areas will need to develop to match his effectiveness defending the perimeter. He has a good stick and is most disruptive when engaging physically. Enhancing his anticipation and defensive reads will be critical to unlocking his full potential.

30. Jack Nesbitt

C, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Nesbitt has steadily climbed draft boards in the latter half of the season, and with good reason. The 6-4 center brings a physical, defensive presence and is confidently projected to become an NHL player. His offensive upside continues to improve, showing flashes of one-on-one skill and the speed needed to drive play and create opportunities in the middle of the ice. There`s a less confident projection for a top-nine role; Nesbitt could realistically become a checking center with the potential for 40 points.

His defensive play excites scouts due to traits like scanning awareness, shot-blocking, lane-filling, and tracking opponents to force turnovers under pressure – skills that will translate well to the NHL. Scouts are confident Nesbitt will be an effective NHL player and agree that he will need to demonstrate greater offensive playmaking ability to provide value on both sides of the puck.

31. William Moore

C, U.S. National Team Development Program

Moore appears across a wide range of draft boards, from the mid-20s down to the third round, largely because he is viewed as a long-term project – exactly the type of player teams selecting late in the first round often target. Moore is a hybrid player, showing elements of both hard and soft skills, and needs to decide which play style he will primarily adopt. He is projected as an NHL player with an outside chance of becoming a middle-six forward if he can enhance his offensive toolbox.

He possesses creativity and the skill to execute plays, manipulating defenders and playing with pace, and easily retrieves pucks along the boards. However, consistency is an issue. His compete level and willingness to engage physically indicate potential as a power forward. He has reliable two-way abilities that will translate well and will further develop as he consistently stops on pucks, engages physically defensively, and adds strength to improve in puck battles and playing through contact.

32. Bill Zonnon

LW, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

Zonnon is a raw prospect that some team selecting late in the first round will likely be thrilled to acquire. He ticks many boxes, exhibiting a high-end motor, elite work ethic, and promising playmaking abilities. The big forward is confidently projected to be an NHL player and has a fair chance of developing into a third-liner. Scouts view him as a high-floor player because of his translatable `intangibles` and a long runway to develop his raw skills. He is already a reliable, 200-foot player, and scouts love his persistent, never-quit effort level.

If his skating improves, he will become a very effective two-way player, relying on his awareness, playmaking, and competitiveness to bring value across the ice. He is most likely suited for a winger role, excelling along the boards and in battles. He has the potential to be a prototypical hard-skill player that teams deploy on the third line to shut down opponents and rely upon in all situations. He is likely three years away from the NHL and would benefit from NCAA development time to enhance his skating and offensive skills.