The 2025 NHL Draft takes place this week and that means it’s time to update the media/scout poll!
For those unfamiliar with how this works, I poll many of the OHL's brightest minds; those who cover the league incredibly well and know the OHL inside, and out. These contributors supply me with their top 10 available players from the OHL, in addition to some comments. I then put it all together and provide you with a cumulative list. Call it "the consensus."
For comparison's sake, here was the preliminary list (from mid February):
This is definitely a strong crop from Ontario. The league could and should have the top two selections. They could have five of the top eight. And they could have upwards of ten first round selections.
Not a ton of changes from the preliminary list. Simon Wang went from getting three votes to zero. Henry Brzustewicz moves into the top ten. Other players received top ten consideration.
As always, this list involves contributions from a rather colourful cast of characters. Contributing their rankings and thoughts to this preliminary list for 2025 were:
Corey Pronman - NHL Prospects Writer for TheAthletic (@coreypronman)
Steven Ellis - Prospect Analyst for Daily Faceoff (@SEllisHockey)
Peter Baracchini - Draft Content at The Hockey Writers (@PBaracchini)
Kyle Watson - Content Creator at McKeen's Hockey (@kyle_nw)
Here's the List:
1. Matthew Schaefer - Defense - Erie Otters
Highest Ranking: 1st (9x)
Lowest Ranking: 2nd (1x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“To those that are concerned about a lack of sample size, I would say it's near certain his stock would only be higher had he played more. I think it actually underscores how exceptional of a defensive prospect he is, especially given how impressive Michael Misa has been as a challenger. Schaefer was just beginning to figure out how dominant he can be at the junior level. The confidence he has carried himself with since he was the top player at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup only continues to build. He keeps on adding layers to a solid base of elite mobility and an exceptional read of the game. Right now, I don't think there’s a defenceman—in junior, college, or the NHL—with a better chance of becoming a true No. 1 franchise cornerstone.” - Kyle Watson
“His skill set speaks for itself—elite offensive instincts, outstanding defensive play, smooth zone breakouts, the ability to drive play from end to end, shot-blocking, physical engagement, exceptional hockey IQ, and dominance in puck battles. However, two qualities often overlooked are his relentless competitiveness and unwavering consistency. Every shift, he brings the same level of intensity, never letting his effort dip. When you combine that drive with his remarkable skill set, it's clear that Schaefer has all the makings of a franchise defenseman.” - Dominic Tiano
“What if you're getting the next Cale Makar here? Schaefer has size, skating and skill in all areas of the game, plus a ton of character. He's a perfect kid to build a franchise around.” - Ryan Kennedy
“Everything in his game is built out from his feet. The mobility allows him to impact the game at both ends of the ice and truly bring a special element in transition. Scheafer has shown to be a play-driving blueliner with the puck on his stick. His dynamic skill as a playmaker makes him special. As I said with Misa, it’s a 1A/B situation in my eyes.” - Tony Ferrari
“I don’t think there’s any doubt that Matthew Schaefer is the top prospect coming out of the OHL and will be selected first at the 2025 NHL Draft. He tested well during the Draft Combine and his personality and character shined in media scrums, showing those leadership qualities on and off the ice. He only played 17 games this season, but he made it count after dealing with illness and a broken collarbone. In that short span, he showed the IQ, composure, drive and a high-end work ethic on both sides of the puck. At such a young age, to have that skill and mindset, he has all the tools to be a number one two-way, mobile defender.” - Peter Baracchini
“It’s impossible to find an element in Schaefer’s game that isn’t best in this class. There isn’t a better, more deceptive skater on the blueline available, with his mobility being among the best we’ve seen in recent draft classes. Schaefer is as good of a puck distributor as you’ll find, too, and it’s only a matter of time until he pops off in the NHL. That’s partly because he thinks game at such an advanced level for his age, often luring opponents in before pulling off a deceptive deke and getting the puck where it needs to be. Scouts note just how high his hockey IQ is. You can have all the skill in the world, or you could be the biggest, meanest defender around, but if you can’t make quick decisions and your skating lags behind, you’re screwed.” - Steven Ellis
“The most common question that I’m asked on podcast/radio hits is something centered around the small sample size this year and why Schaefer still managed to rise to the top of the draft. Look, I get it. It’s almost unprecedented. However, when he played, Schaefer was hands down the best player on the ice every game; a true difference maker. Then you add in other elements like his outstanding work ethic, resiliency, leadership qualities, and the fact that he’s one of the youngest players available this year, and you get a better picture. I’ve never been so sure of a prospect hitting the upper echelons of their upside. Think Duncan Keith, Drew Doughty, heck, maybe even Scott Niedermayer. I’m all in on Schaefer.” - Brock Otten
2. Michael Misa - Center - Saginaw Spirit
Highest Ranking: 1st (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 2nd (9x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“Michael Misa should be a lock at second overall. He’s a natural-born goal scorer who thrives in the middle of the ice with a commanding presence in the offensive zone. Finding a better finisher in 1-on-1 situations with goaltenders in this class would be challenging. It’s unlikely he is a traditional playdriver in the pros, as his play style leans more towards connecting plays and finishing chances. Should Misa be selected second by San Jose, he’ll be the second half of a lethal 1-2 punch at center alongside Celebrini.” - Kaeden Ireland
“His exceptional hockey IQ allows him to read the game faster than anyone else on the ice. He has the ability to control the tempo, slowing things down when needed to create openings for his teammates and capitalize on scoring opportunities. No matter the situation, he logs significant minutes, proving his reliability and endurance. Defensively, his intelligence shines as he conserves energy strategically, ensuring he’s always ready to transition to the attack. A dynamic skater, he not only drives play but also finds the back of the net, making him far more than just a playmaker—he’s a true offensive threat.” - Dominic Tiano
“Misa isn’t just the second-best prospect in the OHL, he’s the second-best prospect in this class. He was in rarified air this year as a rare 60-goal man and 130-point man and he did it as a centerman who plays the game with equal parts speed and skill as he does commitment.” - Anonymous
“The numbers were incredible and he got my vote for the Red Tilson Award. Competitive to go along with his great skill, Misa also improved his 200-foot-game this season.” - Ryan Kennedy
“A complete, all-around center who scored at a better rate than almost anyone in OHL history among draft eligibles. Misa is an intelligent and tactical player that has a diverse goal scoring arsenal. It’s 1A/B with Scheafer but Misa gets the edge for me because of just how consistently he put together outstanding efforts, even if it came in an understated way at times.” - Tony Ferrari
“The CHL’s Top Scorer really made his mark this season, decimating the competition with 62 goals and 134 points. His high-end skillset, shot and playmaking makes him a lethal offensive threat as he’s always driving and creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. He’s extremely deceptive as he opens up lanes very well for him to attack and put the puck in a good spot for a play to continue. He shows great off the puck awareness and anticipation in order to transition quickly and have opponents on their heels on what he’s going to do next. He has great attention to detail and continues to elevate his game.” - Peter Baracchini
“Misa is the top forward in the draft, one who could potentially go first overall. Misa is an outstanding skater who’ll beat you both in short bursts and with his pure straight-line speed. He’s as good a play-driver as you’ll find from any forward in this class. His hockey sense is truly elite, too. Heck, he’s even got some muscle in his 6-foot-1 frame. Misa isn’t a bruiser by any means, but he’s more than willing to get physical. Misa uses all his traits to exploit defenders and generate scoring chances. His shot is deceptive, rarely needing much of a wind-up to get it where he wants it.” - Steven Ellis
“What’s not mentioned enough regarding Misa is that he has a solid frame and some bite to his game, to go with all his skill. I suspect that as he fills out, he’s going to become a fairly physical and tenacious NHL player. Misa just doesn’t really have a weakness. About as complete as they come. The only thing that I’d say is that I’m not completely convinced that he’s a center long term. Doesn’t matter to me. He’s going to be versatile nonetheless.” - Brock Otten
3. Porter Martone - Wing - Brampton Steelheads
Highest Ranking: 3rd (8x)
Lowest Ranking: 4th (2x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“Porter Martone is a very concerning prospect for me. He hasn’t shown too much drive or physical abilities during his draft year, as his mean streak has shown up almost exclusively after play. Martone isn’t too fast, but his skills are undeniable, and his shot is above average.
The biggest question remains: does his pace of play improve, or does he become a more physical player? Without improving one of these two areas, it’ll be difficult for Martone to become a top-six winger.” - Kaeden Ireland
“Martone brings a physical edge to his game: the classic NHL power forward. His strong frame and aggressive north-south play make him fearless when driving through defenders. He thrives along the boards and behind the goal line, one of the most dominant in this draft class. However, his game isn’t just about power—he also possesses a level of finesse, capable of making plays. He excels in battling for position in front of the net, embracing the gritty areas where goals are earned, and has the ability to score from multiple spots in the offensive zone. While consistency was a challenge at times this season, maintaining his intense, physical style of play is a demanding task.” - Dominic Tiano
“I've always been a fan, but no one can deny that it was impressive Martone was named to Canada's World Championship team in the spring, where he got to play on the same team as Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon. He's the heavy power forward everyone covets.” - Ryan Kennedy
“There are plenty of styles that can be used to describe Martone; agitator, power forward, playmaker, net front presence and the list goes on. He’s a number of players built into one and he excels at it every time he’s on the ice. He can cut through defenders and maintain great control in tight spaces and is always driving hard to the middle of the ice to be a threat. He’s tough to contain in front of the net and is always pouncing on a loose puck and taking advantage of it. He’s always getting lost in coverage and then sneaks in to make a high-end scoring chance. He does a great job to draw defenders in to get them out of position and open lanes up very well to make life easier for everyone around him.” - Peter Baracchini
“In terms of pure offense, there aren’t many that play like Martone. He has arguably the best vision in the entire draft class and has some of the best offensive IQ, too. While his skating might be lacking and some scouts wish he’d be more physical, everyone agrees that he’s one of the smartest players in this draft class. He just understands the game and how to exploit opportunities.” - Steven Ellis
“I think Martone has been miscast a bit; call it wishful thinking maybe. I don’t think he has the jam in his game to be a Matthew Tkachuk type. He’s just not consistently physical or tenacious enough to be that kind of player. I’m of the belief that you either have that naturally as part of your personality or you don’t (like a Brady Martin). It’s something that is tough to develop. That said, you’d be hard pressed to find a better complementary top six winger this year. Intelligent. Skilled. Outstanding scoring chops. Size to boot, even if he could leverage that more. This is a long time 60+ point player in the NHL.” - Brock Otten
4. Jake O’Brien - Center - Brantford Bulldogs
Highest Ranking: 3rd (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 6th (1x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“I think the hype around O'Brien is getting out of hand, and I say that as someone who is a big fan of his. There is no denying his talent, the point totals and his ability to manipulate defenders at a standstill and pick out passing lanes. However, a lack of even-strength production and goals, to me, highlight his struggles driving up the middle of the ice. I am still high on him and view him as a lottery pick. I just think there are a lot of questions regarding his projection. Yes, he can add weight onto a wiry build, but that's not a guarantee he will be a physically adept NHL player. I'm really interested to see how he fares without a goalscorer as exceptional as Nick Lardis, and if he can become more of a play driver and less of a really, really strong complimentary player. He was underwhelming for me in international play outside of the Bulldogs' system, as well as during this year's playoffs, when Lardis was hurt.” - Kyle Watson
“Jake O’Brien has seen his stock rise significantly down the stretch, and for good reason. He is extremely well-rounded with a strong motor, incredible intelligence, and some nifty hands. O’Brien is far from a sure thing, as there are major concerns with his reliance on the added space powerplays brought and his lengthy on-puck possessions, which will be difficult to bring to the NHL, where defenders are stronger and more competent. O’Brien’s shot is also a major concern for me. His goal totals are inflated by his linemates, and he will be a pure playmaker at the next level. I believe in O’Brien to overcome these challenges due to his quick processing and ability to get off passes that many NHLers struggle with.” - Kaeden Ireland
“Big, smart center could easily be a top-10 pick overall. Creative and elusive, some scouts have compared him to Wyatt Johnston.” - Ryan Kennedy
“The enticing package that O’Brien brings is built on just how supremely high-end his vision and passing are combined with the fact that his physical package is still quite raw. Teams envision him growing another inch and filling out his frame to become everything you’d want in a play-driving center. O’Brien is one of the more interesting playmakers in the draft.” - Tony Ferrari
“O’Brien has the skills and the smarts to be a very impressive center in the NHL. His off-puck play is great, and he’s always out-thinking his opponents. O’Brien just fell short of 100 points with 98, but he only continued to get better as the season wore on. He’s never going to blow you away with his pure skill, but his work ethic and ability to be effective in all three zones will allow him to have a solid career.” - Steven Ellis
“Starting to feel like I’m the only person in the scouting community with questions about O’Brien’s projection. If he’s the next Patrice Bergeron, I’m going to look pretty foolish. It’s not that I don’t like O’Brien either. I do believe that he is one of the smartest players in the draft this year. I just have a hard time looking past the difficulties at even strength. Pace and strength on the puck need to improve greatly. Maybe added weight helps him make those adjustments across the board, but maybe that just doesn’t happen. I just prefer a guy like Brady Martin, or some of the others ranked in that 6-12 range.” - Brock Otten
5. Brady Martin - Center - Soo Greyhounds
Highest Ranking: 3rd (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 5th (7x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“It's no surprise as the season progressed and the games got more important, Martin began to shoot up draft boards. It mirrors his OHL Draft year, where an emphatic OHL Cup performance thrust him into the first-overall conversation with Matthew Schaefer and Ryan Roobroeck.
If he becomes the Beckett Sennecke of this year's draft and gets selected in the top-5, it's because there's a team that sees beyond the crash-and-bash playing style that has become Martin's calling card. There is real top-six upside here: I can see him scoring at a 50-goal, 120-point pace in the OHL next season. I think his shot and puck skills are underrated, and his skating—while not a strength—has steadily improved in junior.” - Kyle Watson
“Brady Martin has been likened to Sam Bennett by many, and following this year’s playoff dominance by the latter, Martin’s stock has skyrocketed. Any NHL general managers in danger of losing their jobs can look to Martin as a safe bet to crack an NHL middle six and bring 100% of his intensity on every single shift. Brady also possesses some intriguing playmaking abilities with quick changes in direction, creativity, and swift hands. The top-six upside is there, but the consistent offensive IQ hasn’t been there through all viewings.” - Kaeden Ireland
“He could very well be the premier power forward of this draft class, bringing a relentless presence to the ice. His aggressive forechecking consistently forces turnovers, and he never hesitates to deliver a hard hit. A powerful skater with good acceleration, he maintains exceptional balance, making it difficult for opponents to knock him off the puck. His ability to drive the net—with or without the puck—is a key strength. Another underrated aspect of his game is his proficiency in zone entries, an area where he consistently excels. Additionally, he’s highly effective in the faceoff circle. His competitive edge and tireless work ethic make him a player who refuses to be outworked. Since the Under-18 tournament, his stock has been rising steadily, and his full body of work speaks for itself.” - Dominic Tiano
“A secret no longer, Martin's performance at the world under-18s has everyone on the bandwagon. Scouts love his combination of physicality, skill and tenacity. Another playoff-style prospect.” - Ryan Kennedy
“There has been considerable discussion recently surrounding Martin. Here’s what I’ll say: this is a guy you win with. He’s built for the playoffs like Brad Marchand, so undervalue him at your own peril. Martin played at more than a point per game this season, doing a lot of heavy lifting for the Soo. Away from the puck, He hits everyone in sight, constantly battles hard for the puck and is a noted goal-scorer, too. He doesn’t always have top-level players to play with on the Greyhounds, but he does look like one of the best players to come out of the OHL this year because he does so much all over the ice and never gives up on a play.” - Steven Ellis
“I feel like I’ve been championing Martin most of the season and I’m glad the rest of the scouting community has finally caught on. Look at the history of the draft. The amateur scouting community has consistently undervalued or underestimated the offensive upside of players like Martin over the years. When you play a certain way, there’s a tendency to label them as future third line players and nothing more. But, what people seem to fail to realize quite often is that the way goals are scored in the NHL, the way offense is generated, it’s the way Martin does it. I’m not saying he’s an Art Ross winner. But, I think he can be a consistent 50-60 point guy who plays in all situations, elevates his play in the postseason, and wears a letter. That’s worth a top ten pick all day.” - Brock Otten
6. Kashawn Aitcheson - Defense - Barrie Colts
Highest Ranking: 5th (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 8th (1x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“Kashawn Aitcheson is tricky to project what he’ll be exactly at the next level. His strength and peskiness make him valuable defensively, and his shot is incredible, boasting elite power. Unlike Reid, Kashawn’s rush game is very linear; he carries in a straight line, often opting to pass off or dump the puck in when he encounters resistance. He does enough to bring something to the table in all three zones, but his decision-making, while improving, is still a concern for me. He often drifts a bit too much from his netfront, allowing attackers to farm easy chances when he’s in man-on-man coverage. Kashawn’s tools will likely make him a bottom-four defenseman who can play triggerman on the powerplay.” - Kaeden Ireland
“Facing Aitcheson means stepping into a gritty, old-school hockey battle. He’s a fearless blueliner who thrives on physicality, delivering punishing hits that leave a lasting impact. His presence on the ice is as tough as they come, logging over 25 minutes of ice time per game while playing with an edge that keeps opponents on high alert. Beyond his physical game, he brings offensive capabilities as well. His quick hockey instincts allow him to react instantly, and his powerful, heavy shot is both accurate and dangerous. He’s more than willing to jump into the attack and push deep into the offensive zone, though refining his decision-making on when to press forward would elevate his effectiveness. His skating is solid, with good speed once he gets moving, but improving his backward stride would round out his overall mobility.” - Dominic Tiano
“He’s big, physical, mean, and he scored a boat load of goals this year, what’s not to like? That’s how NHL teams view Aitcheson but I’ve been less enthralled. His physicality largely comes from either chasing hits that take him out of position or after the whistle scrums. His on-puck game is a bit limited to having a big shot. He certainly has a role in the NHL but my question is just how high up the lineup?” - Tony Ferrari
“Aitcheson continues to be a fan favourite with his intense and heavy hitting style of play. He has no problem stepping up to make a big, open ice hit either along the boards or in the open ice. He definitely feels like a player that can sneak into the top-10 and even though his intensity will draw attention, he has a sound two-way game. He’s just as aggressive offensively to jump into the rush and engage in the offensive zone and unleash his powerful shot as he has come up clutch at many points down the stretch of the season. Defensively, he defends rushes very well and takes time and space away effectively and quickly.” - Peter Baracchini
“Aitcheson is one of my favorite prospects in the draft. He has the potential to be an intimidating force in the NHL – someone who just gives opponents nothing to work with. His physicality is the best attribute of his game because he’s willing to get involved with just about anyone. Aitcheson isn’t an outstanding skater, and his playmaking can be a bit of a mixed bag, but I think the raw talent and the pure tenacity are there for any teams looking to get tougher to play against.” - Steven Ellis
“I love Aitcheson. He’s a tone setter physically. He’s also a really intelligent off puck player in the offensive zone. He didn’t score so many goals this year just because of his big point shot. He’s highly intelligent, identifying opportunities to jump up in the play, sneak backdoor, or jump into the slot. I actually think he can produce offensively in the NHL. Kind of the same way a guy like Jake Muzzin did. What actually concerns me more is that Aitcheson does need to clean some things up defensively to be a true defensive stalwart, rather than just a high compete guy. How much his defensive zone awareness improves will be the main factor that decides whether he’s a top four defender, or more of a third pairing, depth type.” - Brock Otten
7. Cameron Reid - Defense - Kitchener Rangers
Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 8th (3x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“Cameron Reid’s dominance carrying the puck is spectacular to watch. His hands rival those of the top forwards in this class, regularly making defenders look silly and taking the puck end-to-end. Reid’s defensive game was the largest point of concern for many, but his decision-making on the breakout has impressed me, and his positioning and compete started to improve during the later stages of the OHL season. He will need to be supported by a strong net-front defender, but Reid’s offensive potential and intelligence make him hard to pass up in the late teens.” - Kaeden Ireland
“As bluelines increasingly prioritize length, Reid’s a 6-footer who can cut through the norm as an excellent, well-rounded, impactful three-zone player who smarts, mobility and consistency will make him a longtime NHLer.” - Anonymous
“With a daring offensive mindset and a willingness to fully lean into it, Reid is the kind of player that you want to see make the NHL because he brings some really fun offensive elements to each of his games. His defensive zone is a bit of a work in progress to say the least but Reid is an enticing puck mover.” - Tony Ferrari
“Reid may have slightly dropped for me in rankings as his second half wasn’t as strong as his first, but I’m still high on him and one of my favourite defenders in this draft. He’s not going to dazzle with flashy moves on the back end, but he’s still extremely effective with his decision making, opting for the safe play and always comes out on top. He’s got great speed in transition and the ability to evade pressure within his own end for a clean breakout. He’s crisp and accurate with his passing, can get shots through on target and close gaps and defend rushes very well. He can do it all.” - Peter Baracchini
8. Malcolm Spence - Wing - Erie Otters
Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)
Lowest Ranking: 9th (3x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“I'm excited to see how he fares at Michigan next season: I think it's a perfect fit stylistically and for his development. Spence does so much well but nothing truly high-end, and I feel he never really had someone to work with on the Otters. Every time he plays outside of Erie, whether it be at a showcase event or for Team Canada, you really see the level Spence can elevate his game to around more skilled players. Adding another 15-20 pounds and having more time to focus on his development will do wonders for the industrious winger. I can see him in an NHL lineup next year after the NCAA season comes to an end. All the pro habits are here.” - Kyle Watson
“A coach’s dream, Spence just seems to play the right way on every shift. He isn’t one for flashy plays or overwhelming his opponents with skill. He’d rather just make smart, simple plays to advance the puck to the offensive zone and then make something happen from there. He is physical at times, has some sneaky slick passing, and a good snapshot. Spence could be a very valuable middle-six forward for a long time.” - Tony Ferrari
“If there’s one thing that Spence doesn’t have, it’s an off-switch. He’s always in motion, constantly pressuring opponents to force mistakes and take advantage of them. His skating and agility are his greatest asset as he has a great burst of speed in transition, on the cycle and to spot the shooting lanes and attack the middle of the ice. He has great playmaking instincts and has the ability to rip the puck with his quick release. He protects the puck extremely well, leveraging his body on quick pivots and to evade pressure. He never panics and is always giving it his all each shift.” - Peter Baracchini
“I feel confident that Spence will be a good NHLer. Maybe not a top-six player, but someone whom you can assign a job to do and he’ll get it done. The Mississauga native isn’t flashy, but he’s a hard worker who loves hitting everyone he can and getting anyone off their game. Spence isn’t a high-end producer in the OHL, but he has been a point-per-gamer for most of the past two seasons. He’s very versatile, although not necessarily a top-six play-driver. I think he will be one heck of a middle-six player, at the very least.” - Steven Ellis
9. Jack Nesbitt - Center - Windsor Spitfires
Highest Ranking: 7th (2x)
Lowest Ranking: 10th (2x)
Total Votes: 10
Comments:
“Nesbitt is a versatile pivot who has added bulk to his frame this season but needs to continue building strength. His ability to adapt to any style of play makes him a valuable asset. A strong skater with solid agility and finesse, he excels offensively, capable of both scoring and setting up teammates with his smooth, precise puck control. Physicality is a key part of his game—he doesn’t shy away from contact and actively seeks out battles. When the game calls for a more defensive approach, he’s equally effective, showcasing his ability to play a low-scoring, structured style with discipline. His high compete level ensures he consistently supports his defensemen in his own zone while maintaining control in the middle of the ice. While his skating mechanics are strong, his overall speed is more average, but his skill set allows him to remain impactful in all areas of the ice.” - Dominic Tiano
“His game has grown so much since the start of last season. His skating, which was a major issue, has become workable and he’s evolved from being a spot-up shooter to a player who can actually involve himself in the play from cycles along the boards to working pucks into the slot as a passer. His shot remains a very good weapon but Nesbitt has become more than just his shot.” - Tony Ferrari
“Nesbitt is no doubt a raw prospect and has a lot of strength to build before he’s ready for the pros. On that note, he’s hovered around the same weight throughout his OHL tenure, meaning he’ll need to start making it a priority to bulk up over the upcoming offseason. If he can add muscle, he’ll gain a boost in his straight-line speed, stability, and puck battles, where he already displays impressive technique. Nesbitt is competent as a passenger in the offensive zone, but what really stands out is his shot with a blend of power and the ability to force goalies to make tough saves. Jack projects as a 3rd line center who can push the pace defensively and use his frame to disrupt the cycle.” - Kaeden Ireland
“I love that Nesbitt continues to compare himself to Adam Lowry in interviews. Coming into the year, the request was that he learned to play more to his size; his physical consistency needed to improve big time. He did that this year. He’s great on the forecheck. He seals the wall really well. He’s excellent in front of the net on tips and second chances. He’s not likely to ever be skilled, creative or quick enough to be a strong transitional attacker. But, his game is tailored perfectly to be the kind of guy who plays 12+ years in your bottom six, plays net front on your powerplay, and anchors your penalty kill.” - Brock Otten
10. Henry Brzustewicz - Defense - London Knights
Highest Ranking: 10th (5x)
Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top Ten (5x)
Total Votes: 5
Comments:
“Primarily a stay-at-home defenseman with a physical edge, he excels at retrieving loose pucks and quickly transitioning play with sharp, accurate passes. While he has the ability to carry the puck out of the zone, he typically opts for the safer play to maintain stability. His aggressive approach to challenging the puck carrier at the blue line and in the neutral zone makes him highly effective in shutting down attacks. Positioning is the foundation of his game, and he consistently excels in that aspect. There is offensive potential in his skill set—he can navigate the blue line to create shooting lanes and deliver well-placed shots. Additionally, his passing is crisp and reliable, allowing him to maintain control at the offensive blue line. However, since he wasn’t utilized in a significant offensive role in London, it remains difficult to gauge the full extent of his offensive ceiling.” - Dominic Tiano
“Brzustewicz is an all-around defender who may not be the most refined right now, but he doesn’t have many notable flaws. He’s a two-way defender who can shoot the puck, skate well and is willing to join in on the rush any time he can. The more he played, the better he played, too. Brzustewicz feels like a safe pick to become a second-pairing defenseman, but I’d like to see him take further steps in his own-zone play.” - Steven Ellis
“I like Brzustewicz as a first round pick. He has some really projectable tools. Does he have a clear identity as a pro yet? I don’t really think so. But, that sort of blank canvas should be appealing. Good size. Skates well. Can get pucks to the middle of the ice. Has a big shot. Plays physical. Has a good stick in the defensive zone. It really comes down to whether you think Brzustewicz thinks the game at a high enough level to utilize these skills at the NHL level. Puck management needs to improve. D-zone awareness needs to improve. I just wonder what his game is going to look like in a few years after he’s quarterbacking the London powerplay full time and gains confidence in his offensive abilities. I don’t necessarily agree with him being a safer, lower upside pick. I kind of see him as the opposite. I think his upside has been masked this year given the role he’s been asked to play. And I think that if certain components of his game don’t get cleaned up, he’s probably not an NHL player.” - Brock Otten
Honorable Mentions
Jack Ivankovic - Goaltender - Brampton Steelheads
Highest Ranking: 10th (2x)
Total Votes: 2
Comments:
“Ivankovic is an incredibly smart and capable goaltender. The track record internationally speaks for itself but its his reads, anticipation, and competitiveness that will drive him to the NHL. One of the top goalies in this class despite his sub-6-foot listing.” - Anonymous
“The top goalie at the U18 Championship, Ivankovic really shined and proved that a goalie of his stature isn’t going to be a problem. Somehow, he always makes himself look bigger in the crease than he actually is, being aggressive and taking angles away. His quick lateral movements and athleticism really makes him unwavering in the crease. He tracks the puck extremely well, fighting through traffic and screens and is always squaring up with shooters to face them head on.” - Peter Baracchini
Alexei Medvedev - Goaltender - London Knights
Highest Ranking: 9th (1x)
Total Votes: 1
Comments:
“My placement of Medvedev may have more to do with how I view those I ranked below him than how highly I regard the Knights goaltender. Still, I think he will be one of the first netminders off the board this year and view him as the safer option over Ivankovic. I don't think he's as talented or athletic as Ivankovic, but he is much more composed and physically assertive in net. He cuts down angles, absorbs rebounds, and recovers well for the rebounds he does give up. Goalies who sit back in their crease, read the game well, and fight for their crease succeed behind good teams. Medvedev has shown that ability behind a powerhouse London Knights group this year. It's not easy to find consistency as a goaltender when you're facing a lot of breaks and chances cold (because the Knights have the puck for minutes on end). I thought the Russian was composed beyond his years at the start of the season, and I don't think he faltered, but rather came back to Earth ahead of the playoffs. He will have every chance to succeed next season as the out-and-out starter.” - Kyle Watson
Filip Ekberg - Wing - Ottawa 67’s
Highest Ranking: 9th (1x)
Total Votes: 1
Comments:
“After a poor first half, Ekberg’s second half was what we expected to see from the talented Swede. Once he figured out how to weave his skill and passing game into the north-south North American game, Ekberg looked infinitely better. Ekberg could ultimately be one of the steals on the draft.” - Tony Ferrari
David Bedkowski - Defense - Owen Sound Attack
Highest Ranking: 10th (1x)
Total Votes: 1
Comments:
“Perhaps I’m on an island with David Bedkowski in my 35-40 range, but his grit and physicality are superb. He delivers bone-crushing hits and throws everything and the kitchen sink at forwards stationed in front of his net. Unfortunately, his hockey IQ is nowhere near where it needs to be to even dream of making an NHL top four. His inability to break out the puck using passes can get him trapped in his own zone, and he often disregards the play to make a big hit. Nonetheless, Bedkowski has the size, will, and tenacity to be an extremely effective bottom-pairing defenseman whose value in the playoffs will skyrocket when the physicality picks up and the whistles are put away. In the early to mid-second round, I’d be happy to take a difference maker who can set the tone of games.” - Kaeden Ireland
Posts
