Luke Sweeney—Just under five months removed from the 2024 NHL Draft, and after many long days and nights spent poring over tape, we at the Dobber Prospects scouting team are ready to share our initial Top 32 ranking for the 2025 NHL Draft.

Though viewed by many as an especially weak class, that perception may only serve to make this draft cycle all the more interesting. While James Hagens still holds his spot at number one, there is considerably less certainty at that position than there was for Macklin Celebrini a year ago. Nevertheless, along with Michael Misa and Porter Martone, Hagens is still a part of a strong top tier of the class that we view as potential first-line stars.

We see a drop-off after the first three, but all of Matthew Schaefer, Roger McQueen and Victor Eklund received strong support as potential top-five selections and also have a shot at being top-of-the-lineup players.

The middle class of this cohort likely has less talent than that of 2024. However, there is a healthy mix of eye-catching projects, hard-nosed workhorses, undersized dynamos, elite talents with early injuries, and uber-skilled puck-carriers. With such a wide-open field, chaos seems to be the operative word for the 2025 NHL Draft Class.

Let’s introduce our team:

Luke Sweeney—Director of North American Scouting(@SweeneyLuke17)

Jordan Harris—Director of European Scouting(@jordan_NHLDraft)

Anni Karvinen—Finnish Regional Scout & USA Crossover(@ScoutWithAnni)

Kareem Ramadan—Russian Regional Scout & USA Crossover(@hockeytakes15)

Ethan Lindley—Swedish Regional Scout (@gtcj10)

Seth Ditchfield—Central Europe Regional Scout(@Seth_Scouting)

Wade Messier—European Crossover Scout (@wade_messier)

David Saad—OHL Regional Scout (@SaadScouting)

Collin Wilcox—WHL Regional Scout (@bombs_clap)

Éloi Biondo—QMJHL Regional Scout (@eloi632211)

Whittaker Heart—North American Crossover Scout(@whittakerheart)

Colin Hunter—Goaltending Scout (@colinhunter0)

…

1. James Hagens, C (5-11, 177 lbs) – Boston College (NCAA)

Anni Karvinen – James Hagens has everything NHL organizations seek when looking for an offensive game-breaker with their first-overall selection. The highly dynamic college freshman has the potential to become a franchise cornerstone as an impactful, play-driving, top-line centre.

Hagens’ ability to break down defences with his speed and puck-handling is unparalleled in this draft. His hands and feet work in perfect harmony, enabling him to maneuver the puck through tight spaces with exceptional control, making him a constant offensive threat. His game speed is built on his great skating mechanics. He can create separation from his opponents with quick crossovers or sharp cuts and maintains a high speed with his smooth stride. When paired with the exceptional playmaking–including excellent passing skills and vision–Hagens becomes a truly dynamic offensive player.

There are no glaring weaknesses in his game. While some may question his ability to play centre in the NHL due to his size, his strong two-way play and competitive nature should silence those concerns. Hagens isn’t afraid to battle in the dirty areas, and his skating helps him immensely on the defensive side as well. His agility allows him to transition smoothly between both ends of the ice and he’s got a relentless motor that keeps opponents on edge, knowing that any lapse in focus could result in the puck ending up in their net.

2. Porter Martone, W (6-3, 208 lbs)—Brampton Steelheads (OHL)

David Saad—There is a wide array of things that make Porter Martone special, but what makes him effective is rather simple: he’s really hard to defend. Martone’s bag of tricks is seemingly endless. He’s able to feint and misdirect with nearly every part of his body. Better yet, who needs a bag of tricks, when you can just bulldoze your opposition instead? That’s the challenge OHL defenders have to deal with every time the 6-3 Martone has an offensive opportunity. How do you defend a guy that can play around you 50 different ways, and doesn’t even need to? That is a question that has so far lacked an answer, as evidenced by Martone’s roaring start to the season. So far, it has earned him the OHL scoring lead for the first month of the season, while scoring over two points a game.

While the package is still a bit raw, it teases the imagination thinking how much better Martone can get from here. He’s already playing with a lot of confidence, but add in some increased efficiency and the maturity to guide his decision-making, and you have a potential all-situations player. He may not be the most fleet of foot, but targeted training with NHL skills coaches could easily unlock another world of opportunities.

Few NHLers, never mind 18-year-olds, have so many ways of attacking any given situation. The ones intelligent enough to take advantage of their wide repertoire quickly soar among the NHL’s elite. Martone looks to continue that trend. There is a reason NHL teams love him.

3. Michael Misa, C (6-1, 184 lbs)—Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Luke Sweeney—As an Exceptional Status player who finished 2023-24 with a smaller role and so-so results, Michael Misa began his draft year with a lot of questions surrounding his projection. Thus far, Misa has quashed them all.

Misa has always possessed an elite skill set, but this season he really ironed out how to marry his dynamic handling with a very professional, mature, detail-oriented game. Sure, Misa has high-end speed, acceleration and agility, a quick, accurate shot, and a deft puck touch, but it is largely his IQ that has allowed Misa to blossom into one of the highest scorers in the CHL.

Misa is an efficient player with excellent habits in all facets of the game, relying on positioning, timing and smarts to constantly connect plays. Misa’s always been impactful as a playmaker. He had 80 assists over the two previous seasons thanks to his excellent vision, insistence on never overhandling, and consistency with hitting his marks early. Defensively, Misa stops on pucks and supports the play through all three zones, showing  impressive polish at this development stage.

However, it is Misa’s scoring that has turned heads so far this year. In addition to being the most adept player in the class at finding soft ice off-puck, it is Misa’s cognisance to identify vulnerable pucks, his skilled approach to generating turnovers, and his laser focus on transitioning those turnovers into immediate offence that have led to his resurgence in our rankings.

In our eyes, with everything he’s done this season, Misa has put himself right back on track with his early expectations. With the possibility of becoming an extremely well-rounded NHL 1C, no matter how you slice it, Misa is firmly entrenched in the top tier of the 2025 class.

4. Matthew Schaefer, D (6-2, 183 lbs)—Erie Otters (OHL)

David Saad—Efficiency is the name of the game with Matthew Schaefer, and there is no better microcosm for that efficiency than his skating. Schaefer is unbelievably fluid and agile while still bringing all the speed and mobility anyone could ask for—a high-end combination. There is rarely a play outside of Schaefer’s reach, and yet he still manages to be irreproachable with the puck, showcasing remarkable maturity. Despite his cool nature, Schaefer is still plenty competitive, especially away from the puck. He constantly uses his anticipation and quick steps to suffocate carriers and kill plays early.

Everything Schaefer has demonstrated this season has evidenced serious top-pair potential. He has played exceptionally in all-situations, handled pressure with ease, and hit all the checkmarks you want out of a #1 defenceman. Mobility, intelligence, defensive aptitude, Schaefer has it in spades and is still one of the youngest the class has to offer, all coming packed in a respectable 6-1 frame.

Until recently, the only place Schaefer had not left people speechless was on the scoreboard. That was understandable, considering his recent bout with Mono limited his playing time, but raw production has never really been his style. That has been the big revelation from him this year. As Schaefer gets more daring and more eager to create offensively, he may yet increase his stocks. Not that we expect those to drop anytime soon. Schaefer is likely to remain uncontested as the best defender in the class.

5. Roger McQueen, C (6-5, 197 lbs)—Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

Collin Wilcox—The towering Roger McQueen is tough to miss on the ice. He is a very smooth-skating centre with elite offensive tools. Through his first eight games, McQueen has used his wicked release to produce at a goal-per-game pace. Unfortunately, he’s been limited by injury and is not expected back until December.

Despite being one of the older players in this draft class, McQueen still has plenty of runway to develop and ultimately possesses some of the highest upside in the class. He has exceptionally quick hands, which he uses to deftly exploit the spaces between defenders. He also has an excellent shot, capable of beating goalies cleanly when releasing off either foot, while also being able to elevate the puck in tight.

His skating is already very good for a player of his size, and while his stride lacks a bit of power during straight-line acceleration, he is very good at utilizing crossovers to build speed through the neutral zone. He has shown a willingness to play a physical game but lacks the necessary strength to make it an effective tool at this point.

McQueen projects as a top-line centre at the next level, and the path to get there is fairly straightforward: build strength, refine his off-puck game, and improve consistency in the defensive end.

6. Victor Eklund, W (5-11, 161 lbs)—Djurgardens IF (Hockey Allsvenskan)

Ethan Lindley—Victor Eklund has really started to climb lists as the season has evolved and it’s easy to see why. His motor is relentless, and his feet are always in motion, allowing him to be first on pucks and play an aggressive game, while also giving him time to recover when he overcommits or makes a bad read. He closes on his opponents quickly, intelligently cuts off their options, and initiates contact, forcing his opponents to make plays they didn’t intend to. He leverages his body during physical battles, coming underneath the opponent to establish an advantage before winning possession. Eklund retrieves pucks along the boards, quickly identifies the next best play, and executes it at a high pace while under pressure.  Eklund’s off-puck motor never stops either, as he maneuvers through defences, looking for soft ice he can burst into.

Eklund controls his speed very well, which allows him to exploit openings at just the right time. It’s that timing combined with his willingness to get to the net that make him such a dangerous scoring threat. In open ice, Eklund is extremely shifty, using cutbacks and subtle delays to confuse defences and open up space for his linemates. His speed in transition pushes defences back, creating easy zone entries and providing room for his teammates to make plays. He could stand to improve his puck control while handling at his top speed, but Eklund’s fast processing, strong vision, and precise puck movement still connect plays despite his slight lack of true dynamism.

7. Logan Hensler, D (6-2, 192 lbs)—Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)

Luke Sweeney—You may hear a lot of people calling Logan Hensler’s game “not dynamic” or, more bluntly, “boring”. While he may not be flashy, Hensler plays with a type of poise that—in its own way—is very exciting, bringing to mind NHLers like Gus Forsling, Sean Walker, or Devon Toews who leverage their skating, smarts and defensive acumen to push play in the right direction.

Hensler is a polished rush defender and easily one of the best in the class in this area. Hensler’s first steps are always to establish dot-lane defence, he is an expert at surfing to close out checks, and he keeps his defensive stick loaded for timely takeaways. As the season has worn on, Hensler’s ability to control the middle of the ice, manage his checks, and perform effective partner-work have also become more refined. There are some rough spots and lapses in decision making, but on the whole Hensler’s talents seem to extend to cycle defence as well.

There hasn’t yet been an offensive explosion from Hensler, though the scoresheet may not tell the whole story, even as the season progresses. Unlike Artyom Levshunov or Zeev Buium, who got to play in two of the NCAA’s top offences during their draft years, Hensler’s Wisconsin Badgers are off to a rough start, averaging a poor 2.4 goals-per-game. Hensler hasn’t been much of a dictating dynamo of a defenceman anyway (an enduring criticism from his DY-1), but he transitions turnovers to zone exits easily with a clean first pass, has the hands, poise, and fluid skating to escape pressure on his own, and boasts a solid shot to boot. Will the offence come at higher levels? It is difficult to say, but with some added strength and explosiveness, there is a clear path for Logan Hensler to become an impactful, top-four defender.

8. Lynden Lakovic, W (6-4, 190 lbs)—Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Luke Sweeney—With oodles of size, speed, and skill, WHL winger Lynden Lakovic is sure to generate a ton of buzz as the season progresses. Lakovic is particularly impactful in all stages of a transition sequence. He’s a heady playmaker that can start the rush or finish it with a feathery pass into the middle. He can lead the rush thanks to his speed, elusiveness, and puck-skill, and he is dangerous as a rush target due to his middle-lane focus, delay game, timing, and ability to find gaps in coverage. Lakovic’s hands, creativity and shot also make him a weapon whenever he gets the puck in the offensive zone.

Though there is plenty of upside in this area, there are still some concerns with Lakovic’s defensive game. He isn’t consistent at stopping on pucks, and his urgency on the forecheck and backcheck comes and goes. Some games, Lakovic is excellent at extending possessions along the boards and winning battles with his stick, though leveraging his frame more consistently would aid this. In some ways, Lakovic’s trajectory resembles that of a guy like Owen Tippett. An equally high-flying, scoring winger in Junior, Tippett required a favourable coaching system and a disciplined approach to develop the pro habits to turn him into an impact top-sixer. If things click for Lakovic, an NHL team could be looking at a dynamic piece in their top six.

9. Jackson Smith, D (6-3, 195 lbs)—Tri-City Americans (WHL)

Whittaker Heart–Smith burst onto the scene at the Hlinka Gretzky cup this summer with a standout performance for the gold-medal-winning Canadian team. He’s a big, highly projectable NHL defenceman at 6-3, 190 lbs. Smith’s signature ability is his fluid, powerful skating stride. He is incredibly athletic, explosive, and agile on his skates. His mobility in all four directions allows him to cover a ton of ice with his skating and reach. Smith is getting naturally stronger with age and time, which will only help him. Defensively, he is extremely sound, playing with a tight gap and making violent, physical attempts to kill plays along the wall. He logs heavy minutes for Tri-City, playing upwards of 23:00 every game. Within that ice time, Smith’s deployment has been inconsistent, being asked to fill multiple roles for a weaker Americans team. His decision-making is going to be the biggest question mark. At times, he overcommits out of position, taking chances when he doesn’t need to. Smith will at times try to fit a square peg into a round hole, opting to make the game much harder for himself than it needs to be. But if his brain can catch up to his feet, Smith will make an NHL GM very happy this spring.

10. Anton Frondell, W (6-1, 196 lbs)—Djurgardens IF (J20)

Ethan Lindley– The base of Frondell’s game is built around his intelligence and vision on the ice. He displays impressive awareness to find teammates with enough space to make plays, and he can make passes to teammates outside his field of vision. He’s a dangerous threat to score down low, as his awareness combined with his physicality allows him to navigate through coverage and establish himself as a strong net-front option. Frondell has a powerful shot and needs very little time to release it. He understands this and will use his shot as a decoy to open up passing lanes and holes in coverage. He uses his frame effectively to win possession, aggressively initiating contact and closing off opponents at the hands. Anton Frondell is by no means a burner, but he has both a powerful stride that is difficult to disrupt once he gets going, and really strong edges that he uses to push laterally and gain separation from opposing checkers. He’s at his most dangerous when his team is cycling the puck in the offensive zone because he can slip behind defences, find space, and maintain control of passes in traffic with his strong puck protection habits. Frondell’s intensity can fluctuate from game to game (and sometimes shift to shift) so some consistency in that area could be improved. Although he could stand to showcase more dominance on the puck, injuries have undoubtedly played a part in Frondell’s slower start this season. The talent is evident, but the flashes have come and gone so far.

11. Ivan Ryabkin, C (5-11, 201 lbs)—MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)

Kareem Ramadan—Ivan Ryabkin is the top Russian prospect for the 2025 draft and is coming off the most prolific offensive season for a U17 player in MHL history. Ryabkin’s game is centred on offense and his dynamic puck skills. However, what truly sets him apart is his ability to set up teammates and utilize intelligent off-puck movement to create give-and-go opportunities after the initial pass. Ryabkin also brings a physical edge, actively seeking chances to deliver hits and separate defenders from the puck.

Defensively, Ryabkin is a competitive centre that shows a decent understanding of where to position himself, though he can be prone to overfocusing on the puck carrier and losing track of the biggest threats on the ice as a result. There are some uncertainties regarding Ryabkin’s stocks due to a slow start and speculation about whether he will stay in Russia or move to the USHL. Despite these questions, Ryabkin remains one of the highest-upside forwards in the 2025 class.

12. Caleb Desnoyers, C (6-2, 178 lbs)—Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

Éloi Biondo—Caleb Desnoyers has been turning heads since last year with strong performances, including 56 points in 60 games as a rookie in the QMJHL, and two gold medals at the U18 Worlds and the Hlinka Gretzky Cup with Team Canada. The 6-1, 178 lbs centre brings a very well-rounded skill-set to the table: his size, skating ability, creativity, and two-way play make him a valuable asset every time he’s on the ice. He’s got a long and powerful stride that allows him to be very effective in transition.

Desnoyers possesses great poise with the puck. He sees the ice extremely well and can slow the play down or execute quickly with creative and nifty puck skills. He’s a competitor at heart who works hard along the board using his size and is very committed to the defensive side of the game. However, he’s still a bit raw physically, with room to improve his strength and quickness. He has had a strong start to the year and could be a top 15 selection at the 2025 NHL Draft.

13. Cullen Potter, C (5-10, 172 lbs)—Arizona State Sun Devils (NCAA)

Anni Karvinen – Cullen Potter’s decision to transition to the NCAA a year early turned heads, but that move seems to have paid off so far. The undersized forward has displayed dynamic speed and an electric skill set, causing his name to rise on many public draft boards recently. Potter has earned high praise from his coaches, including Arizona State head coach Greg Powers, who recently stated in an NHL.com article, “I think just from a raw ability and skill set, he’s the best player that’s ever played here and it’s probably not even close.”

Potter’s game is a perfect example of what gets fans out of their seats. His ability to create separation with his legitimate speed is striking, making him a transition monster even at the NCAA level. A gifted puck handler, Potter can control the pace with the puck on his stick. Defenders are often on their heels, struggling to keep up with him. While inconsistency in his decision-making and concerns about his size keep him out of our top ten for now, there’s a path open for him to rise further.

14. Radim Mrtka, D (6-6, 207 lbs)—HC Oceláři Třinec (Czechia)

Seth Ditchfield – Few prospects turn heads quite like Mrtka, and it’s easy to see why. At 6-6, the smooth-skating defenseman already catches your eye, but it’s what he does with that frame that makes him special. What started as raw potential has blossomed into something remarkable. Mrtka isn’t just tall; he’s become a defensive mastermind, breaking up rushes with the kind of timing you usually see from veterans. When opponents enter his zone, they’re meeting a defender who can shut them down and instantly turn defense into offense.

While other big defenders might lumber around the ice, Mrtka glides. He’s equally comfortable protecting his net or jumping into the attack, making him the kind of modern defenseman that NHL teams dream about. It’s not just his size that has scouts excited – it’s everything else he brings to the table.

15. Malcolm Spence, W (6-1, 203 lbs)—Erie Otters (OHL)

David Saad—While Spence may be one of the more translatable forwards the class has to offer, the overall upside he presents is a bit up in the air. There’s little doubting the appeal that Spence brings to the table. He’s got a big, strong body and plays the game with pace and intention. There are plenty of pro habits that are already present. He swings low to support defenders, looks to drive play through the middle, and understands how to apply pressure on defenders. Offensively, he definitely leans finisher and brings a really powerful shot to the table, but he also has a sneakily refined passing game. All of this exemplifies Spence’s ability to play with “hard skill”; he uses his raw athleticism to constantly push the game’s speed and gets physical as he does it.

However, Spence does lack the high-end “soft skill” that is more clearly evident in other top players of this class. He’s not a particularly creative playmaker and tends to stick to playing it simple. His stride generates a lot of straight-line speed, but it doesn’t give him a lot of flash on his edges. The likelihood of Spence developing into a high-end offensive option is fairly low, but it’s a concession many would be willing to make among the litany of risky options outside the top tier of players.

16. Braeden Cootes, C (5-11, 183 lbs)—Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)

Collin Wilcox – A one-man forecheck, Braeden Cootes is an ultra-aggressive, two-way centre who is sure to be appreciated by coaches at the next level. He plays hard, fast, and with an edge. Every bit of his game is played with pace and physicality. He has good hands, but isn’t a prolific dangler; instead, Cootes will often use his quickness to beat a defender before immediately looking to pass into the slot. He is exceptional at getting passes into high danger areas.

In a stacked WHL draft class, Cootes’ production lags a bit behind his peers. He’s still scoring at just under a point-per-game, but make no mistake, he is impactful every time he’s on the ice.

This is a player who never takes a shift off. He is effective in all situations, is solid in the faceoff dot, and is responsible in all three zones. His consistent defensive impact really cannot be understated. It feels like the floor is a middle-six centre, the only real question is how high his ceiling is.

17. Brady Martin, C (6-0, 178 lbs)—Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

David Saad—Few players go hard in the paint like Brady Martin. His competitiveness, intensity, and confidence pop off the screen with every shift. Nobody will question his effort, especially not with how physically he plays.

That said, Martin is more than a wrecking ball on skates; he brings a ton of skill too. He’s a force in transition due to his raw strength, and he brings soft hands to go along with it. It’s not uncommon to see Martin challenge a defender in the middle of the ice, just for Martin to immediately make a move into space to leverage his powerful shot.

While he’s relatively new to the first-round conversation, Martin has been pulling eyes all over the NHL since he was been given the reins with the Soo Greyhounds. It’s possible we have another Jett Luchanko on our hands.

18. Blake Fiddler, D (6-4, 209 lbs)—Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

Whittaker Heart—Fiddler, a standout at this year’s Hlinka Gretzky Cup and captain of Team USA, has carried his strong play from the tournament into his draft year in the WHL, logging 22 minutes per game in all situations. At 6-3 and 193 lbs, Fiddler’s a big, right-shot defenseman with a smooth skating stride, something all teams covet. While his offensive production hasn’t reached the same level it hit at the Hlinka, Fiddler’s poise with the puck and ability to transport it through the neutral zone stands out.

Defensively, he defends the rush well, breaks up plays against the cycle, and holds strong positioning. His decision-making is slowly improving, though he still has room for refinement. Fiddler’s ability to walk the line in the offensive zone and use his reach is promising, but his offensive creativity and top-end speed are still developing. With his size, skating, and upward trajectory, Fiddler has top-four upside and likely has a first-round selection in his future.

19. Justin Carbonneau, W (6-1, 191 lbs)—Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)

Whittaker Heart—Justin Carbonneau has exploded out of the gate this season with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, establishing himself as a legitimate lottery contender in the 2025 draft. His development trajectory seems to be headed in the right direction, even as an older prospect in this class. He scored 31 goals in 2023-24 and appears to be on pace to match that total again. Carbonneau’s game derives from his offensive mindset to transport the puck and create scoring chances. His hands are exceptionally quick and deceptive. He has an extremely sound release and possesses mid range scoring capabilities.

Defensively, Carbonneau is committed to competing hard and playing physically, despite sacrificing timing and positioning occasionally. He recognizes soft spots in coverage and exploits them in the offensive zone both on the cycle and off the rush. Carbonneau has become a true power forward, adding the strength necessary to play the way he wants. His electrifying moments may not all translate, but Carbonneau can be a middle-six scoring winger in the NHL.

20. Cameron Schmidt, W (5-7, 161 lbs)—Vancouver Giants (WHL)

Collin Wilcox—Cameron Schmidt is electric. He is one of—if not the—fastest and most dynamic players in this draft class. He currently leads the WHL in goal scoring with 18 (in just 16 games played) and is top-ten in overall scoring. If it weren’t for his size (5-7, 157lbs), Schmidt would likely be ranked much higher.

Despite his size, Schmidt has no trouble driving the net and getting into high-danger areas on the ice. He’s more than willing to engage physically and is good at getting under opponents’ skin. His skating, hands, and finishing are all high-end, meaning Schmidt can create scoring chances for himself, but he can also be an elite finisher off the pass. Once a criticism of his game, Schmidt’s playmaking has also improved this season. He is very much the primary play driver for Vancouver, but for his game to translate to the next level, he’ll need to demonstrate an ability to be effective when he isn’t the primary option. Schmidt projects as a top-six scoring winger and lethal power play producer.

21. Carter Bear, W (6-0, 179 lbs)—Everett Silvertips (WHL)

Luke Sweeney—It is important to acknowledge biases. That said, I have no shame in saying that I am an unabashed, card-carrying member of the Carter Bear Fan Club ™.

Bear caught my eye a lot last season as a seriously effective checking forward. He plays the game with the kind of intensity and tenacity that you’d move mountains to instil in any player. Every night, from opening puck drop to the final whistle, Carter Bear is working. He hounds opponents on the forecheck. He disrupts plays and generates defensive zone turnovers. He’s strong, proactively physical, and finishes his checks. He drives the net hard.

With all the positives, you’d assume Bear would be some sort of offensive blackhole, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Bear is adept at turning board play into the middle of the ice, he’s a smart playmaker with quick-twitch hands, and he’s a fleet-footed skater, all while currently sitting at second in the WHL in scoring and chugging along at just under a goal-per-game. He may not be a star scorer at the next level, but Carter Bear has fan-favourite written all over him.

22. Cole McKinney, C (6-0, 200 lbs)—USNTDP (USHL)
    Whittaker Heart—McKinney is a complete, hard working centre from the NTDP whose game is driven by his high motor and strong two-way game. He has a powerful lower half with decent quickness and strong edge work. His puck skills are good, and he reads the game well from the middle of the ice. McKinney is reliable on both ends of the rink and can play either penalty kill or powerplay, the type of centre coaches will love. His production, specifically his goal scoring, has lacked early on this year, sliding him down our list. The NTDP has struggled to score goals and McKinney, one of the team’s best pure shooters, has been no exception. Despite the low numbers, it is still evident that he demands the puck and can be dangerous around the net. I’d like to see some more savviness off the rush and creativity to drive offence for others.

McKinney’s offensive ceiling isn’t going to be incredibly high, but he projects as a reliable bottom-six centre with the potential for a solid NHL career if he can refine his offensive game.

23. Jack Nesbitt, C (6-4, 185 lbs)—Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Kareem Ramadan—If you haven’t heard of Jack Nesbitt yet, it’s time to take notice. The hulking centre’s emergence has been one of the big storylines in the early part of the OHL season and a major reason for Windsor’s rise as one of the best teams in the CHL. Nesbitt is an impressive puck handler with the offensive instincts to match his hands. Concerns over Nesbitt’s skating are overblown; his mechanics are fluid, and once he reaches top speed, he is a lot to handle at his size. Nesbitt thrives below the dots, using his size to protect the puck and attack the middle of the ice. He shows advanced patience and playmaking instincts, waiting for teammates to attack open pockets before threading a pass. His excellent combination of size, skills, and willingness to compete in the hard areas of the ice are why we have ranked Nesbitt as aggressively as we have, and he could very well climb even higher in our midterm rankings if his play continues.

24. Cole Reschny, C (5-10, 183 lbs) Victoria (WHL)

Whittaker Heart—Cole Reschny is a highly skilled 5-9 centre who has put together a solid WHL career so far with his playmaking, offensive instincts, and motor.

Reschny’s offensive game revolves around finesse, passing ability, and vision. While he’s not the strongest player physically, Reschny is effective at driving play on-puck, with a mechanically-sound skating base, smooth hands, and the ability to manufacture offence for both himself and his Victoria teammates. His strong lower half allows him to create off the cycle and spin off contact down low.

He’s displayed a great motor in all three zones, but the overall strength is concerning to his projectability. As his size suggests, he loses a big share of physical battles along the boards and isn’t reliable in defensive situations. Still, Reschny possesses top-six upside due to his offensive involvement and play-driving tendencies. He could become a solid complementary scorer at the next level, similar to players like Seth Jarvis or Jordan Eberle. Strength development and defensive maturity will be crucial for his development.

25. Milton Gastrin, C (6-0, 185 lbs)—MODO (J20)

Ethan Lindley—The tools Gastrin has at his disposal are undeniable. He creates advantages for his team with his speed, strength, and spatial awareness. It’s incredibly difficult to beat him to a loose puck, and even if an opponent does, Gastrin will fight back for inside positioning, absorb contact, take the puck, and make a really smart play with it. Gastrin’s speed allows him to be opportunistic and take advantage of broken plays. He also plays an extremely mature game and demonstrates a strong commitment to both sides of the ice. He doesn’t chase and applies pressure when he recognizes an opponent’s vulnerability. He maintains strong puck control at top speed and weaves some flashes of deception into his movement and passing.

However, he could drive inside more often than he does at this point. Although his feet and hands work well in unison, his decision making at top speed can be a step behind at times. If he could improve in those two aspects it would go a long way to helping Gastrin unlock another level offensively.

26. William Moore C (6-2, 175 lbs)—USNTDP (USHL)

Jordan Harris—Moore has all the tools to be a top-flight prospect in the 2025 NHL draft. He boasts great height at over 6-2, and at only 170 lbs, he has lots of room to add bulk to his frame. Moore is a dual threat as a goal scorer and playmaker with well-above-average skill to boot. He skates well and plays with a physical edge at times. Despite these tools, a frustrating season (both for viewers and for Moore himself) that has featured pace issues and an inconsistent motor has pushed Moore down to 26th on our list. Based on his body language in-game, it is clear the early-season struggles are starting to eat at Moore. Nevertheless, Moore faces an incredibly important next few months, where he could ascend into the top 15 or continue to fall down draft boards. The tools are certainly there, we just need to see more urgency in his game.

27. Carter Amico, D (6-5, 225 lbs)—USNTDP (USHL)

Kareem Ramadan—Carter Amico is an athletic, 6-5, 205 lb. right-shot defenceman. Combine that with a mean streak and above-average speed and quickness, and it’s not hard to understand why Amico is one of the most fascinating prospects in the 2025 class. Unlike many larger defensemen, Amico actively seeks to create plays with the puck rather than simply deferring to teammates. However, he lacks dynamic offensive skills and can be prone to overhandling the puck and forcing passes that will not work at higher levels. While he exhibits strong straight-line speed, his slow pivots can leave him vulnerable when opponents gain a step on him. Especially after a season-ending leg injury, the overall package is still enticing, but there is legitimate risk.

28. Adam Benak, C (5-7, 160 lbs)—Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)

Kareem Ramadan—Adam Benak hasn’t had the offensive start many anticipated after breaking the Gretzky-Hlinka tournament scoring record in August. However, the qualities that made him an exciting prospect before the season remain intact. Benak showcases all of the dynamic attributes essential for an undersized forward: dynamic speed, skill, and scoring ability. The real separator, however, is that Benak plays a disciplined 200-foot game, with off-puck routes that are mature beyond his years. It is this element that differentiates Benak from most undersized forwards and gives him an additional dimension to hang his hat on when he isn’t scoring. As the season progresses, we expect Benak to find his comfort level with Youngstown and boost his offensive production. He is simply too talented as a scorer at the USHL level not to break through eventually.

29. Reese Hamilton, D (6-0, 172 lbs)—Regina Pats (WHL)

Whittaker Heart—Reese Hamilton is a smooth skating, offensively driven defenceman who struggled for Calgary to open the season. A recent trade to Regina (who are among the worst teams in the WHL) will pose both a challenge and an opportunity. His elite four-way mobility has shown promise in transporting the puck, walking the line, and maintaining a tight gap. Hamilton has solid hockey IQ with noticeable offensive instincts, especially on the power play, where he plays a prominent role. While not the most physical or competitive player, his awareness helps him in the defensive zone. Hamilton could use development on overall quickness and intensity, and his defensive play can sometimes lack assertiveness. He’s a fluid skater with good skill who reads the game well, though his overall offensive production isn’t there quite yet. Hamilton is the prototypical defenceman that can get you from point A to point B but not much further. With continued development, Hamilton has intriguing upside but may be more of a complementary player at the next level.

30. Jack Murtagh, W (6-1, 200 lbs)—USNTDP (USHL)

Kareem Ramadan—This year has been somewhat challenging for the USNTDP, but one of the standout performers has been Jack Murtagh. While Murtagh may not possess the flashiest skills, he is a strong skater with a high motor that he uses to attack high-danger areas and sustain pressure on the forecheck. He plays a pro-style, North-South game, characterized by impressive speed and tenacity. Although he occasionally showcases skill moves, his game primarily revolves around effective puck management and leveraging his strong shot to score goals from mid-range and in tight. Murtagh’s style may not be as exciting as some other prospects, but it is well-suited for success at the professional level. It is also worth noting that Murtagh was born in August and is one of the younger prospects in the 2025 class, making his current performance even more impressive.

31. Ben Kevan, W (6-0, 182 lbs)—Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL)

Luke Sweeney—If there is one game that best illustrates the type of player Ben Kevan is, it might be his match on Sept. 20^th, 2024, where, in just 10:32 of TOI, Kevan had an assist and 10 shots on goal.

Kevan is a shot-generating and transition machine. He’s quick and looks to stretch the ice and leverage his speed at any given opportunity. Kevan’s rush game looks well developed, accelerating through touches, manipulating time and space, creating speed differentials, cutting back through pressure, and frequently gaining the centre lane.

The question with Kevan is whether he can be much more than a volume-shooting transition weapon. Kevan has creative playmaking upside, but he doesn’t offer much defensively or on the forecheck. The skill level and dynamism are undeniable. The question is if he’ll be able to earn the opportunities to show it.

32. Sascha Boumedienne, D (6-1, 175 lbs)—Boston University (NCAA)

Anni Karvinen—The final skater to make our Top 32 is a left-handed defenseman from Boston University, Sascha Boumedienne. Boumedienne’s start to his freshman season has had its ups and downs. Known for his offensive ability, Boumedienne has yet to run the BU power play, as he is currently behind Cole Hutson and Tom Willander in the depth chart.

The standout element in Boumedienne’s game is his passing ability: he consistently delivers crisp, tape-to-tape passes through opposing players. He’s also a comfortable puck-handler, making him an effective carrier in transition. He likes to activate from the offensive blue line, and he can keep play alive in the offensive zone with well-timed pinches. Still adapting to the pace of NCAA hockey, Boumedienne has occasionally had some trouble with breakouts under pressure. He’s also inconsistent with his defensive zone coverage. Boumedienne will probably continue to have some difficulties in adapting to college hockey, but we believe this season is also a great opportunity for him to make significant strides in his development.

Honourable Mentions:

HM Filip Ekberg, C (5-10, 166 lbs)—Ottawa 67’s (OHL)

David Saad—Ekberg deserves better. The Swede has been met with constant obstacles since making it to Ottawa. He was ill on arrival and missed most of training camp. He’s had to deal with immigrating to North America and is learning how to work with his teammates on the fly. Worst of all, he’s got to deal with his spot fluctuating both up and down (as well as in and out of) the impoverished 67s’ lineup. Ekberg may have plenty of talent to work with, but few players would be able to take all of these challenges in stride. Despite the rough start, it would be ill-advised to count out players of Ekberg’s talent too quickly.

HM Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen, D (6-0, 178 lbs)—Univ. of Michigan (NCAA)

Anni Karvinen—Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen, a college freshman playing a third-pairing role with the Michigan Wolverines, has impressed early in the season. The left-handed defenceman won’t overwhelm you with power or size, but his mobility allows him to play an effective 200-foot game. He closes gaps quickly with his speed, and his excellent edgework is a tremendous asset, whether walking the offensive blue line or escaping pressure in his own end. Rhéaume-Mullen has the potential to climb in our rankings, especially if he forces the coaching staff to elevate his minutes with his high level of play

HM Cameron Reid, D (6-0, 193 lbs)—Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

David Saad—By our own admission, a truly last-second addition. Reid has been one of the more surprising standouts of the past month and seems to be involved in everything Kitchener does. Despite his relatively small frame, this especially applies to his defensive game. Reid is remarkably effective with his stick, is very fluid with his motions and reads play spectacularly. Sprinkle in some really impressive offensive IQ and some remarkable mobility, and Reid being outside the top 32 may be laughable in hindsight.

 

HM Conrad Fondrk, C/W (6-0, 193 lbs)—USNTDP (USHL)

Luke Sweeney—Conrad Fondrk impressed early in the season but has been more frustrating lately. Nevertheless, he still has a lot of skill that is worth gambling on right now.

Fondrk has excellent puckhandling ability, layered with deception and creativity. He’s also a strong playmaker, especially off the rush or his first touch. To break into first-round territory, Fondrk needs to be more consistent in his checking (where he’s sometimes strong but often invisible) and improve his ability to play off-puck and find soft ice.

HM Jack Ivankovic, G (5-11, 178 lbs)—Brampton Steelheads (OHL)

Colin Hunter—The highest ranked goaltender in our rankings at this point, Ivankovic has begun his season as a real first-round contender. From a technical standpoint, there is a lot to like in his game. He plays a highly controlled, calm style, setting his feet and staying square to shooters without sacrificing lateral explosiveness. He reads developing plays and shooters well, shifting into pucks and attacking shots out in front of his body with his hands. While he can get caught sinking into his net and fading behind screens at times, he’s also highly competitive, generally tracking well and making out-of-the-box saves when necessary.

HM Jakob Ihs Wozniak, W (6-2, 184 lbs)—Lulea (J20)

Seth Ditchfield—Jakob Ihs Wozniak has the skill of a lottery pick but lacks the physicality to thrive in North America’s fast-paced game. His puck vision makes him a power-play threat, and his brief time with Luleå’s men’s team revealed his net-driving potential. If he can take advantage of his size in puck battles and around the net, Wozniak could climb significantly in our rankings by June. A ton of upside here.

HM Kurban Limatov, D (6-3, 198 lbs)—MHK Dynamo Moskva (MHL)

Kareem Ramadan—Kurban Limatov is a sturdy 6-3 defenseman who effectively combines a physical playstyle with the ability to transport the puck and activate off the offensive blueline. Although he is more of a puck mover than a scoring threat, Limatov possesses an accurate shot that can find the net through traffic. While Limatov’s skating stride lacks an explosive gear, he demonstrates solid mobility for his size, and that, coupled with a strong work ethic, allows him to play at a quicker pace. Defensively, Limatov has a strong understanding of positioning. However, he sometimes becomes overly aggressive, opting to reach with his stick rather than using his skating and body positioning to angle opponents before attempting to dispossess them of the puck. With his intriguing combination of size and skill, Limatov has significant potential, but he will need to demonstrate greater consistency and maturity to fully realize it.

HM Rio Kaiser, D (6-7, 207 lbs)—Lausitzer Füchse (DEL)

Seth Ditchfield—Rio Kaiser has been tested across multiple levels this season, showcasing his impressive blend of size, mobility, and intensity. Standing tall at 6-7, he moves with remarkable agility, quickly closing gaps and playing with a controlled edge in the slot. His discipline stands out too, with just 4 PIM over 7 games, reflecting a side of his smart play. While his upside may not be the highest, Kaiser’s reliable, physical style makes him a safe bet for an NHL future.

HM Bill Zonnon, W (6-2, 185 lbs)—Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

Éloi Biondo—Bill Zonnon is a big and versatile forward who can play the wing or centre. What stands out the most about Bill is his compete level. He’s relentless every shift on puck carriers and uses his size well to win board battles. Zonnon possesses a long and powerful skating stride, which allows him to be dominant in transition. Paired with a good skill level and a strong understanding of the game, it gives him a safe floor as a prospect. The only knock on Zonnon’s game would be his explosiveness and agility on his skates. Improvements would give him upside as a complementary top-nine forward in the NHL.

HM Emile Guite, W (6-1, 176 lbs)—Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)

Whittaker Heart—Emile Guite is a highly skilled winger whose game revolves around his exceptional shot and release. He’s an extremely multifaceted goal scorer, capable of putting the puck in from numerous angles and situations, including one-timers, strong side catch-and-release shots, or in-motion angle changes. The biggest question mark on Guite, and the reason he slipped out of the first round, is his skating. His production has been slow this season, which is concerning, only posting 8 points through 18 games. Guite has first-round talent, but needs to improve his skating and strength to reach his full potential. He projects more as a complimentary top-9 winger in the NHL.