2023 NHL Draft top prospects: Bedard No. 1, Smith rises in Pronman’s May ranking

The 2023 U18 World Championships are done, and with that we are now in full NHL Draft season. Sweden and USA were the two best teams at the tournament, and their gold medal game was an overtime nail-biter. It is no surprise, then, that Americans and Swedes were among the groups that helped themselves the most since my last draft update.

Coming out of the U18s, what was once considered a “consensus top four” no longer feels the same way, as there are a number of scouts who buy U.S. center Will Smith in that top group or would argue for him above some of the candidates.

This is certainly a forward-heavy draft but not as much as I thought it would be coming in. Two defensemen are in my top 10, and three in my top 15, one being Swedish defender Tom Willander, whom I underrated in previous rankings.

Longtime readers know I don’t throw around the term “strong draft” just for the sake of hyperbole, but I’m comfortable saying this is a good draft class when you see how I’ve tiered players compared to the last few years. I think the hype around this draft can get out of control; it’s mostly driven by the premium talent in the top five names, and given the amount of high-echelon names at the top — an unusual amount — it bumps everyone down a bit. Once we get to the body of the draft it starts to look like any other draft.

The Russian variable is one of the most fascinating parts of this draft. Matvei Michkov, Daniil But and Dmitri Simashev are arguably all top 15 talents in this draft. But and Simashev were very impressive in their junior playoffs. Where do they actually fall? I wish I could tell you, and the answers from league sources are nowhere near consistent. But, Simashev and Mikhail Gulyayev are all expected to be present at a tournament taking place in Istanbul later this month, and a decent number of NHL scouts are expected to be in attendance for a rare opportunity to live-scout the top Russian prospects.

Notable changes from my last draft ranking:

• Flipped Adam Fantilli and Matvei Michkov
• Elevated Will Smith into the same tier as Leo Carlsson
• Dalibor Dvorsky, Dmitri Simashev, Gabe Perreault and Matthew Wood elevated a tier
• David Edstrom and Tom Willander elevated significantly
• Eduard Sale lowered a tier
• Danny Nelson, Otto Stenberg and Oscar Fisker Molgaard added to the top group of NHL prospects
• Andrew Cristall and Gavin McCarthy removed from the top group of prospects

The next draft update in a month will be a long list version of my NHL Draft board.

Projected bubble generational player and elite NHL player (Tier 1)

1. Connor Bedard, C, Regina (WHL)

Jul. 17, 2005 | 5′ 9.75″ | 185 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 1

Tier: Projected bubble generational player and elite NHL player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: Elite
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Elite

Player comparable: David Pastrnak

Background: Bedard was the clear best player in the WHL this season. He had one of the best individual performances ever in a single world junior, being named MVP of the tournament. He was a top player for Canada’s U18 and U20 teams during his 16-year-old season, too, while scoring 100 points in the WHL that same season. He was one of the best players at the 2021 U18 World Championship as a 15-year-old.

Analysis: Bedard is a potential franchise-changing No. 1 prospect. His skill and shot are legit game-breaking attributes. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one is among the best I’ve ever seen by a 17-year-old, and the pace at which he displays that elite skill is going to allow him to execute those type of skilled plays in the NHL. Bedard is a highly imaginative puckhandler and a very creative passer. That, combined with the fact his wrist shot is a top-tier NHL weapon from anywhere in the offensive zone, makes him a projected nightmare for NHL coaches to stop on the power play. The only downside to his game is his frame, which has some scouts wondering if he gets pushed off to the wing in the NHL. He isn’t a pushover though, as he plays hard and has a physical edge in his game. Given his success as a junior center, his strong skating and his high compete level, I think whoever drafts him will have to try him down the middle and move to the wing if it doesn’t work. If he is a wing, he could still have a potential Patrick Kane/Nikita Kucherov type of impact on a franchise.

Projected elite NHL player (Tier 2)

2. Adam Fantilli, C, Michigan (BIG10)

Oct. 12, 2004 | 6′ 2.0″ | 195 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 3

Tier: Projected elite NHL player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Elite
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: High-end
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Jonathan Toews

Background: Fantilli had one of the best seasons ever by a first-year draft eligible in college in the modern era, which cumulated in him winning the Hobey Baker Award, given to the best player in college hockey. He had one of the best underage seasons ever in the USHL in 2021-22. The prior season he was named MVP of the USHL playoffs in Chicago’s run to a championship in 2021. Internationally, his record isn’t as stellar. He played OK in a limited role at the world juniors this season and was productive but not amazing at the U18 worlds in 2022.

Analysis: There’s so much to love about Fantilli’s NHL projection. He’s got a huge frame, skates well and competes very hard. He wins a lot of battles and isn’t shy to use his big frame to lay out opponents. He has game-breaking puck skills and will be able to beat NHL opponents regularly with his puckhandling, especially given his speed and wingspan. His playmaking isn’t the main thing that gets you excited about his game, but Fantilli can make difficult passes and has strong enough sense to create chances in the NHL. His shot is also a threat from range. That he can create with so much pace is what makes him exciting from an NHL perspective. He checks every box and projects as a No. 1 center on a good NHL team.

3. Matvei Michkov, RW, Ska St. Petersburg (RUSSIA)

Dec. 9, 2004 | 5′ 10.0″ | 172 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 2

Tier: Projected elite NHL player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Elite
Hockey sense: Elite
Compete: NHL average
Shot: High-end

Player comparable: Nikita Kucherov

Background: Michkov posted huge numbers in Russia’s second tier pro league before being loaned to one of the worst teams in the KHL in Sochi. With Sochi, he was one of the most productive first-year draft-eligible players ever in the KHL. Hs owns the best 17-year-old season in Russia’s junior league history, besting Nikita Kucherov. He is second among its 16-year-old seasons, narrowly trailing Kucherov. He led SKA’s MHL team to a championship in 2022, scoring 13 goals in 17 junior games. He scored three goals in two games at the cancelled 2022 world juniors. At the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky he scored eight goals and 13 points in five games, leading Russia to gold. He was named tournament MVP at the 2021 U18 World Championships, scoring 12 goals and 16 points in seven games.

Analysis: Michkov is one of the very best first-year draft eligibles I’ve ever seen from inside the offensive blue line. He has truly special offensive skill and hockey sense. His mind operates differently from other players in how he sees the play develop and always seems to find ways to figure into scoring chances despite not being the biggest or fastest. His mind is special, but he’s freakishly skilled with the puck too, and can make elite stickhandling plays seem routine. He can make plays at a high level, but Michkov is a finisher who will score a lot of goals as a pro. His skating is more elusive than fast and I wouldn’t call him a high-compete type either. He’s signed in the KHL through the 2025-26 season, but he projects as a game-breaking elite scoring winger in the NHL.

Projected NHL All-Star (Tier 3)

4. Leo Carlsson, C, Orebro (SWEDEN)

Dec. 26, 2004 | 6′ 3.0″ | 198 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 4

Tier: Projected NHL All-Star

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: High-end
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Mikko Rantanen

Background: Carlsson was an important player for Orebro, who were a semifinalist in the SHL this season. He was given top-nine minutes at even strength and often flanked their top power-play unit. He is one of the more productive first-year draft eligibles in the SHL in modern history. He was a top player for Sweden’s world juniors team. He was invited to the senior Sweden team where he played center for the first time this season.

Analysis: Carlsson has elite skill, which when combined with his frame and a strong motor, has allowed to him to be a very good player in a great league as a draft eligible. Carlsson routinely shows the ability to beat pro defenders with skill. He gets a ton of chances in the high-percentage areas, both due to his hands and his willingness to attack the net. He’s an excellent playmaker as well with a very imaginative offensive mind who can run a pro power play and often played the flank in the SHL on the man advantage. His only drawback is a lack of true separation speed. I’ve seen worse feet on a 6-foot-3 guy, but he won’t be turning NHL defensemen around. He’s listed as a center, and has dabbled at it at the J20 level, but for the most part over the last two years I’ve seen him play wing.

Will Smith. (Rena Laverty / U.S. NTDP)

5. William Smith, C, Usa U-18 (NTDP)

Mar. 17, 2005 | 5′ 11.75″ | 181 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 6

Tier: Projected NHL All-Star

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: High-end
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Evgeny Kuznetsov

Background: Smith is the No. 1 center and leading player on this year’s U.S. NTDP team. He has been one of the most productive players ever in their U18 season with the program. Smith was invited to USA’s world juniors camp but was cut. He was named the MVP of the 2023 U18 World Championships. He is committed to Boston College.

Analysis: Smith is a dynamic offensive player who stands out every game with his talent. He has tremendous puck skills, vision and overall offensive creativity and projects to be a major asset on an NHL power play. He skates well and makes so many high-difficulty plays at a strong pace, which lends well to his pro projection. Smith is a high-end passer who is also able to finish chances from the dots. The only real wart in his game is I wouldn’t call him an overly physical or high-energy player. I don’t think he lacks effort. He’s around the puck a ton whenever he’s on the ice and even at times killed penalties for the program.

Projected top of the lineup player (Tier 4)

6. Nate Danielson, C, Brandon (WHL)

Sep. 27, 2004 | 6′ 1.5″ | 185 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 5

Tier: Projected top of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Elias Lindholm

Background: Danielson was named co-captain of his WHL team during his draft season and has played a big all-situations role for Brandon. He was one of the top play-drivers in the WHL this season and was named a second team All-Star in the eastern division of the WHL. Danielson was over a point per game the prior season. He was invited to Canada’s U20 camp in the summer and their U18 camp the prior summer. He was the No. 5 pick in his WHL Bantam Draft.

Analysis: Danielson is a well-rounded center who has a lot of NHL traits. He’s a big body who skates and competes well, which when combined with his offensive touch, allows him to be effective in a lot of situations. He has an excellent stick, and is able to beat defenders with skill at NHL speeds often. He makes a lot of plays with pace but also shows the vision and shot threat to run a power play off the edge. Danielson is a competitive two-way center who wins a good share of puck battles and can kill penalties. He looks like a potential high-in-the-lineup all-situations center in the NHL.

7. David Reinbacher, D, Kloten (SWISS)

Oct. 25, 2004 | 6′ 2.0″ | 185 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 7

Tier: Projected top of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Brett Pesce

Background: Reinbacher was a top-four defenseman for his NLA team this season. He had the second most productive draft season by a player in NLA history, behind Auston Matthews, and the best by a defenseman. He was a top player for Austria at the 2023 world juniors. He played regular minutes for Austria’s senior team at the Deutschland Cup. He played for Austria’s U20 team at the 2022 world juniors as well.

Analysis: Reinbacher is an excellent all-around defenseman. His mobility stands out immediately, especially as a 6-foot-2 right-shot defender. Reinbacher’s gap control is quite strong; he kills a lot of plays due to his feet. He can close on guys with his body too, and shows a high compete level to win back pucks. He’s very polished defensively for such a young player, and projects to shut down good NHL forwards. He’s able to both skate and pass pucks up ice. He’s got good offensive touch, showing solid hands and better vision. He’s not dynamic with the puck but showed this season at a young age he could make plays and move the puck like a pro. His sense is very good and he projects to be a power-play guy in the NHL. Reinbacher is a potential top-pair, all-situations NHL defenseman.

8. Dalibor Dvorsky, C, Aik (SWEDEN-2)

Jun. 15, 2005 | 6′ 1.0″ | 201 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 11

Tier: Projected top of the lineup player

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: William Karlsson

Background: Dvorsky’s play was up and down this season versus men in the Allsvenskan, but he was excellent at the junior level in Sweden. He was an important part of Slovakia’s U20 team in both the winter and summer world juniors. He led Slovakia’s U18 team to a top four finish at the U18s. He was the second-leading scorer of the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup behind Michkov. He was a top player at the U18 worlds B Pool in 2022, leading Slovakia to promotion.

Analysis: Dvorsky is quite dangerous inside the offensive zone. He has excellent puck skills in small areas and can make checkers miss routinely in open ice. He can make tough plays and find seams. He excels as a goal scorer, though, with a wrist shot and one-timer that he can often finish from range. Dvorsky’s compete is good, he wins puck battles and he isn’t shy from using his body. Like a lot of shooters he can stay too much on the perimeter instead of taking it to the net, but I never watch his games and think he lacks effort. His footspeed is going to be an issue for higher levels. I think with his offensive talent, his work ethic and strong and consistent track record of scoring he finds a way to become a very important part of an NHL lineup, but I’m less sure of whether he sticks down the middle or has to be a winger due to his skating.

9. Danil But, LW, Yaroslavl Jr. (RUSSIA-JR.)

Feb. 15, 2005 | 6′ 5.0″ | 203 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 8

Tier: Projected top of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Alex Tuch

Background: But was one of the top forwards in Russia’s junior league this season and was a near-point-per-game player in the league the prior season. He was a leading player in the MHL playoffs before an illness sidelined him. He earned limited ice time with Lokomotiv’s KHL team. Both Loko’s MHL and KHL teams were top clubs this season. But suited up for Russia’s U18 team as a 16-year-old at the Hlinka Gretzky, Black Sea Cup and the European Youth Olympics. His father Anton But played professional hockey in the KHL and Russian Super League for 17 seasons.

Analysis: But is a large, highly-skilled forward who can score. But makes a lot of crafty plays with the puck in small areas, and with his massive wingspan he’s able to pull pucks past a lot of checkers. He can both make and finish plays well, but he’s more of a goal scorer with a shot that can score from range. But isn’t blazing fast and his stride technique is just OK, but for a 6-foot-5 guy he can motor up the ice quite well, has a strong first step and he’ll be able to power his way to the net off rushes at higher levels. He gives a solid effort and is often involved in the play. Even though I don’t see a high-end trait other than his size, But checks every box and projects to be a major part of an NHL lineup.

10. Dmitriy Simashev, D, Yaroslavl Jr. (RUSSIA-JR.)

Feb. 4, 2005 | 6′ 4.0″ | 198 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 17

Tier: Projected top of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Adam Larsson

Background: Simashev made a strong KHL team out of camp as a 17-year-old defenseman before being sent back to junior, although he came up to Lokomotiv at times during the rest of the season. At the junior level, he didn’t post huge offensive numbers, but he’s played a significant role on a top junior team in Russia. He represented Russia’s U18 team in the 2022 season at the European Youth Olympics and the Black Sea Cup.

Analysis: Simashev is a toolsy defenseman as a 6-foot-4 blueliner who skates quite well for his size. He’s not dynamic offensively, but he has good puck skills, can beat checkers one-on-one with his hands, makes a solid outlet pass and makes some plays from the offensive blue line. He’s smooth and solid defensively, being good on his gaps and retrievals. Simashev competes hard, has some physicality in his game, and showed in the first half he could play against men at a young age. There is some debate on how much offense he has, but I think he has offense, and on a lesser junior team he would have scored more. You saw in the MHL playoffs when they leaned on him the offense came out more consistently. I see a lot of indicators of a two-way top-pair defenseman in the NHL even if I don’t think he’ll put up big point totals.

Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player (Tier 5)

11. Gabriel Perreault, RW, Usa U-18 (NTDP)

May. 7, 2005 | 5′ 10.75″ | 165 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 21

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: High-end
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Lucas Raymond

Background: Perreault is the first-line wing for the U.S. NTDP this season. He’s had one of the highest point-per-game rates in the program’s history this season and broke Auston Matthews’ single season point record, which was shortly followed by teammate Will Smith breaking it as well. He is the brother of Anaheim 2020 first-round pick Jacob Perreault and the son of former NHL player Yanic Perreault. He is committed to Boston College.

Analysis: Perreault is an extremely skilled and intelligent winger who can make a ton of positive things happen inside the offensive zone. Perreault makes highly-creative and unique dekes and passes with the puck at a high rate, both off the perimeter and in small areas. His puck game is clear NHL power-play quality, and he will score as a pro. The issues on Perreault’s game is his 5-foot-11 frame and his lack of footspeed. He shows good second effort and can win puck battles at the junior level, although whether he can do that versus men is a concern. His hockey sense is so elite though that I think he can overcome those issues and become a very good top six winger.

12. Samuel Honzek, LW, Vancouver (WHL)

Nov. 12, 2004 | 6′ 3.5″ | 186 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 10

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Pavel Zacha

Background: Honzek was an all-situations winger for Vancouver. A leg cut suffered at the world juniors kept him out for several months. Honzek played for Slovakia in the summer 2022 world juniors. He got an invite to their senior team camp in the spring of 2022. He was a part of the Hlinka Gretzky team that won silver.

Analysis: Honzek’s game is exciting from a pro-projection standpoint. He’s a big forward who can skate well, which when combined with the offense he’s showing makes for a well-rounded player. I don’t think he’s amazing with the puck, but he has good hands, can make tough plays with pace and can finish chances both from range and in tight. In the WHL he ran the power play from the flank but that likely won’t be his role as a pro. Off the puck he shows good details and a strong work rate. He wins a lot of battles and can kill penalties. Honzek dabbled at center for a couple of WHL games but is likely a winger as a pro. Even as a wing he projects to be an important two-way player for an NHL team.

13. Ryan Leonard, RW, Usa U-18 (NTDP)

Jan. 21, 2005 | 5′ 11.5″ | 192 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 15

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Artturi Lehkonen

Background: Leonard has often been the top-line right wing on the U.S. NTDP playing a ton of minutes in all situations. He was invited to USA’s world juniors camp but was cut. He scored the golden goal in overtime at the 2023 U18 worlds. He played the most out of all the 2005-born players with the 2004 age group in the 2022 season. Leonard scored five goals and six points in five games at the 2022 U18 World Championships. He is committed to Boston College.

Analysis: Leonard is a versatile winger with a lot of elements to his game that an NHL coach will covet. He’s a strong skater who competes well, with a direct style of play and despite an average-sized frame he shows no fear of engaging in physical play. He combines that with excellent hands and an ability to make highly skilled plays with the puck at full speed. His playmaking isn’t great but there’s vision and finishing ability in his game to score at higher levels. Leonard may never truly stand out at either end of the ice, but he will never give a coach a reason to sit him and projects as a quality top-six wing.

14. Matthew Wood, RW, Uconn (H-EAST)

Feb. 6, 2005 | 6′ 3.5″ | 193 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 19

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Drake Batherson

Background: Wood had a highly productive 17-year-old freshman season at UConn scoring a point per game. As a 16-year-old he led the BCHL in goals and points. At both this past summer’s Hlinka Gretzky and the 2022 U18 worlds, Wood played a limited even-strength/heavy power-play role for Team Canada but at the 2023 U18 worlds he was a top forward at the tournament.

Analysis: Wood is a very gifted offensive player. He has excellent one-on-one skills and offensive IQ. He has the ability to hold onto pucks for an extra second and knows how to beat defenders with skill. He also has an excellent wrist shot and one-timer, making him a major asset on the power play. Wood is a big winger as well, so the size/skill combo has a lot of upside. However, his skating is an issue as he lacks the ability to separate and the pace of the NHL will challenge him. I wouldn’t call him an overly physical or high compete type, and I’ve seen him take nights off, but Wood is a big body who can use his frame to win battles and gets to the inside parts of the offensive zone well enough. I think he’ll be a quality top six winger who will be a big part of an NHL power play, but he may frustrate his coaches at times.

15. Tom Willander, D, Rogle Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)

Feb. 9, 2005 | 6′ 1.25″ | 180 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: Not Rated

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Mike Matheson

Background: Willander was a key player for Rogle’s U20 team, which won the J20 title in Sweden this season. He also progressed with Sweden’s U18 team as the season went along and became one of their best players. He was one of the top defensemen at the U18 worlds, including a 31-minute performance in the gold medal game. He’s one of the rare breed of Swedes who committed to college at 17 years of age, as he is going to Boston University.

Analysis: Willander’s skating is his main asset for the NHL; he is one of the best skaters in the draft. He has a quick, powerful skating stride and can push the pace up ice with the puck. Willander’s skating allows him to close on checks well and be a quality defender especially when combined with the fact he has some physicality in his game. I wasn’t always sold on his offensive touch. I don’t see a big-time playmaker as a pro, but Willander has good enough skill and vision to move pucks at higher levels well, especially given the space his feet can generate. He has the making of a good two-way top four defenseman.

16. Brayden Yager, C, Moose Jaw (WHL)

Jan. 3, 2005 | 5′ 11.0″ | 166 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 12

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: High-end

Player comparable: Travis Konecny

Background: Yager was an important all-situations center for Moose Jaw this season. He scored 34 goals in 63 WHL games as a 16-year-old being named CHL Rookie of the Year. He also scored 18 points in 24 WHL games as a 15-year-old. He was the best player at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, leading Canada to gold. Yager was the third pick in his WHL Bantam Draft.

Analysis: Yager is a player with a pro-style game. He plays with a lot of speed and energy, showing the ability to carry pucks up the ice and make skilled plays with pace. He’s not the biggest center, but Yager plays hard, showing a commitment to making plays without the puck and winning a lot of battles even though he’s not overly physical. His main offensive weapon is his shot, which is high end due to his great technique and accuracy, but he does have the slick hands and vision to beat defenses in other ways. He didn’t score goals this season like I thought he would with his shot, but I believe he will in future seasons. At his size there will be questions about whether he’s an actual NHL center despite his skating and effort. My comparable for him is an NHL wing, reflecting the risk in his projection at that position, but I see a reality where he turns into a Vincent Trocheck type.

17. Zach Benson, LW, Winnipeg (WHL)

May. 12, 2005 | 5′ 9.0″ | 163 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 13

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Jonathan Marchessault

Background: Benson was one of the top forwards in the WHL, being a leading player for a top-ranked team for two years in a row. He’s been an all-situations player in the WHL for a while, including on a premier club as a 16-year-old. He scored 20 points in 24 WHL games as a 15-year-old. He was a top forward for Canada’s U18 team. He was the 14th pick in his WHL Bantam Draft.

Analysis: Benson has a ton of creativity and offense in his game. He makes high-end skill plays routinely, he’s one of the better passers in junior and projects to be a major asset on an NHL power play. Benson lacks ideal size at 5-foot-9, but he’s relentless in puck battles often coming out with the puck despite his frame. He’s a responsible, detailed defensive player who is an asset without the puck. His frame, combined with a lack of separation speed, is a concern, though, for his NHL projection even though he’s got good quickness in tight. There is a fair amount of risk on his projection, but his strong compete and tremendous skill plus track record of scoring, makes you think there is still a very good chance he can become a quality top-six wing in the NHL.

18. David Edstrom, C, Frolunda Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)

Feb. 18, 2005 | 6′ 2.75″ | 185 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: Not Ranked

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Joel Eriksson Ek

Background: Edstrom was a big part of a top junior club in Sweden this season. He also played a notable role on Sweden’s U18 team, including being their top-line center at the U18 worlds. He scored a few points in the SHL for Frolunda as well in limited games.

Analysis: Edstrom is a well-rounded center with size who isn’t overly flashy but has a lot of NHL traits. Edstrom is good around the net, kills penalties, wins a lot of battles and makes enough plays with the puck to produce good offensive numbers. He has good hands, and can create offense with pace. His skating for his size is intriguing and grew on me as the season went along. He has the makings of a potential top six two-way center in the NHL.

19. Oliver Moore, C, Usa U-18 (NTDP)

Jan. 22, 2005 | 5′ 11.0″ | 188 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 14

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: High-end
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Jean-Gabriel Pageau

Background: Moore has often been the second-line center for the U.S. NTDP this season. He runs Team USA’s second power-play unit and is their top penalty killer. He is committed to the University of Minnesota.

Analysis: Moore is the best skater in the draft. He has very good speed and his edgework is NHL-elite caliber. He evades pressure so well and is able to go from a stop to a fast gear very quickly. He has very good hands to go with those feet and projects to get a ton of controlled zone entries in the NHL. I don’t think his pure offensive touch as a scorer or playmaker will ever dazzle, and he’ll be more of a secondary scorer on an NHL line. Moore lacks size, and isn’t overly physical, but he’s a worker. He gets to the net, comes back hard on defense and coaches trust him in tough situations. He has a ton of NHL projectability and looks like a potential top-three line center or second-line wing.

20. Colby Barlow, LW, Owen Sound (OHL)

Feb. 14, 2005 | 6′ 0.25″ | 190 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 9

Tier: Projected bubble top and middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: High-end

Player comparable: Jason Zucker

Background: Barlow was one of the top-scoring and shot-generating forwards in the OHL this season. He scored 30 goals in 59 games as a 16-year-old in the OHL. He was a member of Canada’s Hlinka Gretzky team, where he played a big role and scored five points in five games despite no power-play time. He was the eighth pick in his OHL Draft.

Analysis: Barlow is a well-rounded winger. He is a strong skater who can transport pucks through the neutral zone. He’s a hard-working forward who has some physicality, can kill penalties, and is quite physically advanced for his age. Offensively he has excellent stick skills and a great shot. He’s a threat to score off the rush and from a standstill with his one-timer. Barlow’s playmaking isn’t his selling point, but it’s good enough, especially with how skilled he is at creating scoring opportunities for himself. He projects as a high-in-the-lineup wing who can play on both special teams in the NHL.

Middle of the lineup player or starting goaltender (Tier 6)

21. Quentin Musty, LW, Sudbury (OHL)

Jul. 6, 2005 | 6′ 1.75″ | 200 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 22

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Casey Mittelstadt

Background: Musty put up excellent scoring numbers in the OHL this season, recording 26 goals and 78 points in 53 games, a full season pace of 100 points. He was a top player for USA on their Hlinka Gretzky team. Musty was the No. 1 pick in his OHL Draft.

Analysis: Musty is a player with a lot of offensive touch in his game. He’s a highly-skilled puckhandler who can make difficult plays with the puck at a high rate. He tries to make things happen and shows a strong level of creativity. Musty is a good passer who can hit open lanes and has the patience to pull up and make plays. He can score goals and is a shot threat from range but is certainly a player with a pass-first mentality. His effort is fine, he can use his big body to win battles but his game-to-game consistency isn’t the best. He’s a one-way winger, which combined with his so-so skating ability, is a concern for higher levels. There may be times you want more from him, but I think he will score so much that he will be a top-six wing.

22. Axel Sandin Pellikka, D, Skelleftea Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)

Mar. 11, 2005 | 5′ 10.75″ | 176 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 18

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Cam York

Background: Sandin-Pellikka has put up big numbers in Sweden’s junior league scoring over a point per game and a goal every second game. He also has gotten some ice time for a top SHL team in Skelleftea. He’s played well with Sweden’s U18 team, including being named best defenseman at the U18 worlds, and he got a large role with Sweden’s world juniors team, especially for a 17-year-old.

Analysis: Sandin-Pellikka is a highly creative and intelligent puck-mover. He has excellent puck skills, showing the ability to beat opponents often with skill. He can improvise well with the puck, while also showing strong playmaking ability with the poise to make plays from the blue line at the highest levels. He is a goal-scoring threat who can score from range but also pinches well to get scoring opportunities. He skates well enough, and can make plays on the move creating offense off the rush and from blue-line activations. Sandin-Pellikka lacks ideal NHL size for a defenseman but he competes well and doesn’t shy from using his body to lay into opposing forwards. His defense will be his main question at the NHL level, but I think he plays hard enough to be a top-four defenseman.

23. Charlie Stramel, C, Wisconsin (BIG10)

Oct. 15, 2004 | 6′ 3.0″ | 212 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 26

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Below NHL average
Compete: High-end

Player comparable: Lawson Crouse

Background: Stramel has had a very up-and-down season. He’s struggled with his club team as a freshman at Wisconsin, who were a bottom-feeder in the Big Ten. But for two weeks with USA’s U20 team, he looked quite good and reminiscent of the forward from the U.S. NTDP who impacted games at times. He was invited to Team USA at the summer world juniors where he was the 13th forward. He scored five goals in six games at the 2022 U18 worlds, being the net-front guy on USA’s top power-play unit.

Analysis: Stramel’s pure athletic tools are highly intriguing. Stramel is a 6-foot-3 center who can skate well and plays a highly-physical brand of hockey. He can power his way through checks and to the net and never shies away from an engagement. The degree of offense is the major question on his game. I think he has good hands and can create a little, but he lacks vision and won’t be a big-time scorer as a pro. If you go into picking Stramel understanding the offense may be limited, but you’ll see get a guy who can help you at even strength a lot and potentially be a nice third-line center, you’ll be happy. And I do think there’s a chance he can be more than that, too. Due to the lack of sense there is a possibility he may need to be a wing, but his great faceoff skills could counteract that.

24. Eduard Sale, LW, Brno (CZECHIA)

Mar. 10, 2005 | 6′ 2.0″ | 174 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 16

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Below NHL average

Player comparable: Kasperi Kapanen

Background: Sale played a limited-minutes role for his pro team in Czechia’s top league. He played a major role in Czechia’s U20 team that won silver. His play with Czechia’s U18 team has been quite inconsistent, including a disappointing U18 Four Nations in February where he only recorded one point. His U18 worlds in 2023 were better but still not amazing. At the U18 World Championships in 2022, though, he was one of the best forwards there with nine points in six games. Barrie in the OHL selected Sale in the CHL Import Draft.

Analysis: Sale’s toolkit is exciting. He’s a good-sized winger who skates quite well and has a ton of natural offensive abilities. He has the hands to beat NHL defensemen regularly and with his length and speed he’ll be able to drive play at even strength. Sale is a great passer who can run a power play well and hit seams at a strong clip. He can shoot the puck well enough but is better as a passer for me. His compete is OK. I wouldn’t call him a physical or high-energy type of player, but he shows enough courage to get to the net. I would like to see him be more consistent as there’s too many nights I watch him have little impact, even if he can take over games other nights. I think he’s a very good player, who can be a legit top six wing in the NHL, but I also see him in the process frustrate coaches and fans.

25. Tanner Molendyk, D, Saskatoon (WHL)

Feb. 3, 2005 | 5′ 11.5″ | 182 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 20

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Mario Ferraro

Background: Molendyk has played a ton of minutes for a strong Saskatoon team this season. He hasn’t put up big point totals but often isn’t on PP1 for them. He led Canada in ice time in their Hlinka semifinal win over Finland and was second in ice time in the gold medal win over Sweden. Molendyk grew significantly in a short period of time. He measured in during the summer at 5-foot-10 and 3/4 inches and is close to six feet now. He was the fifth pick in his WHL Bantam Draft.

Analysis: Moldenyk is a strong two-way defenseman despite not being the biggest defender. This is because of his excellent skating ability and strong work ethic. Molendyk’s edgework is very good. He closes on checks like a pro, and is able to evade pressure at a high level. His top speed is good, not great, but he can lead a rush in the NHL. Molendyk has strong offensive instincts and skills, and can make plays from off the blue line and on the move. His size will be a minor issue as a defenseman in the NHL, but he plays hard and doesn’t shy from physical play often landing hard hits at the junior level. I think he checks a lot of boxes and projects to be a top-four defenseman.

26. Oliver Bonk, D, London (OHL)

Jan. 9, 2005 | 6′ 2.0″ | 180 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 24

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: NHL average

Player comparable: John Marino

Background: Bonk is a big-minute defenseman for a top OHL team in London this season. His progression is quite notable after not even being a regular player in the league last season. He made Canada’s U18 team this summer but didn’t play much. He is the son of longtime NHL player Radek Bonk and was a second-round pick in his OHL Draft.

Analysis: Bonk’s toolkit looks like an NHL defenseman. He’s a 6-foot-2 right shot with strong mobility and offensive touch. Bonk is able to skate pucks up ice, make some skilled plays, and shows good poise from the blue line. He’s not a standout with the puck, but he can be a decent puck mover at higher levels. Defensively he’s solid due to his feet and reach. Bonk isn’t overly physical but he can defend well enough as a pro. He projects as a top-four defenseman in the NHL.

27. Calum Ritchie, C, Oshawa (OHL)

Jan. 21, 2005 | 6′ 2.0″ | 185 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 23

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Below NHL average

Player comparable: Ryan McLeod

Background: Ritchie was a point-per-game player in the OHL this season, which is somewhat of a disappointing year after coming into the summer as one of the very best prospects in the 2023 draft. As a 16-year-old Ritchie’s scoring was strong in the OHL and he led the Hlinka Gretzky in scoring. He also was very good at the U18 worlds, although he injured himself towards the end of the tournament. He was the second pick in his OHL Draft.

Analysis: Ritchie is a player with all the aesthetic tools. When you see a 6-foot-2 center who can skate and handle the puck like him, he sticks out in a massive way and some of the plays he makes are distinct at the junior level. He’s a strong puck carrier and playmaker, who can create for teammates off the perimeter and do so with pace. He looks like a top prospect, but he’s quite inconsistent. Ritchie has long stretches where he doesn’t make much of an impact, and plays too much on the perimeter. The toolkit screams “good NHL player,” and I think eventually he will be that, but he may frustrate you along the way.

28. Otto Stenberg, C, Frolunda Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)

May. 29, 2005 | 5′ 11.25″ | 180 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: Not Rated

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Alexander Barabanov

Background: Stenberg was the captain of Sweden’s U18 team this season. He got extended time in the SHL with Frolunda. His performance in Sweden’s J20 league wasn’t as good as expected, but he scored very well in that league as a 16-year-old. He was a top scorer at the Hlinka Gretzky this summer and at the U18s in the spring.

Analysis: There is a lot to like about Stenberg’s game. He is a strong skater with good hands who can be a threat in transition. His shot is excellent, and Stenberg is often a threat to score from the faceoff dots, although I don’t know if that will be his role on an NHL power play. Stenberg isn’t the biggest forward, but he gives an honest effort every night and doesn’t shy from going into traffic. His hockey sense is good enough to score at higher levels, but he’s certainly more of a shooter than a passer. He’s listed as a center but is likely a pro winger. I could see him as a second- or third-line wing in the NHL.

29. Gavin Brindley, C, Michigan (BIG10)

Oct. 5, 2004 | 5′ 8.5″ | 165 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 34

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: High-end

Player comparable: Kailer Yamamoto

Background: Brindley was a top player for a top college team in Michigan this season and saw his role elevate as the season went along. He also played a notable role on USA’s world juniors team. A rare top prospect from the Florida area who came up in the Florida Alliance program, Brindley was very good in Tri-City of the USHL as well. He played for Team USA last season at the U18s too.

Analysis: With excellent skating and work ethic, Brindley buzzes around the ice, playing with a ton of pace and giving his best effort nightly. He’s able to make skilled plays at full speed, and plays with courage, going to the net and engaging along the walls. Brindley’s pure offensive touch won’t dazzle, but he has good hands and hockey sense and can make plays at higher levels. There aren’t a ton of two-way forwards in the NHL who barely touch 5-foot-9, but Brindley has the right mix of traits to be the next one even if there’s risk on his projection. I see a middle-six forward whether at center or the wing, but likely the latter.

30. Mikhail Gulyayev, D, Omsk Jr. (RUSSIA-JR.)

Apr. 26, 2005 | 5′ 10.0″ | 172 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: 25

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: NHL average

Player comparable: Erik Brannstrom

Background: Gulyayev was a point-per-game player in Russia’s junior league, being a major part of a top junior club. He also looked good in time versus men at the VHL and KHL levels. He had four points in three games with Russia’s U18 team this season. He was a leading player and ran the top power play for Russia’s U18 team at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky.

Analysis: Gulyayev has obvious offensive talents as he has clear NHL skating, hands and vision. Gulyayev is a highly-intelligent and creative puck-mover and can make tough plays at a quick pace. He creates a lot of controlled exits and entries, he projects to run power plays at higher levels and be a point producer versus men. Due to his size, how well he’ll defend in the NHL will be a question. I’ve seen worse defenders, and with his great skating he should be able to hold up at higher levels even with his slight frame, but it will be a question he will have to answer repeatedly. I see a regular NHL defenseman who will put up points, but may need to be used in a specific manner by his coach.

31. Lukas Dragicevic, D, Tri-City (WHL)

Apr. 25, 2005 | 6′ 1.0″ | 190 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 27

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Above NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Sean Durzi

Background: Dragicevic was one of the top-scoring defensemen in the WHL this season and was a first-team All-Star in the US division of the WHL. He’s emerged as one of the top Canadian defensemen in his age group despite being a cut from Canada’s U18 team this summer, although he was part of their U18 team the previous spring as a 16-year-old and was their best defenseman at the 2023 U18 worlds. He was the fourth pick in his WHL Bantam Draft.

Analysis: Dragicevic is very dangerous with the puck on his stick. He has good hands and better instincts and vision. He can run a power play like a pro. He shows the high-end IQ to let plays develop, hold pucks under pressure, and jump into attacks at the right time to go with a strong point shot. The question with Dragicevic will be without the puck. He’s an OK skater and competitor. I think he defends well enough in junior, but there will be questions on how he defends size and speed in the NHL. He’s not undersized and his offense is so good that I think he plays and scores in the NHL, but coaches may need to be careful in how they deploy him.

32. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)

Jan. 26, 2005 | 5′ 11.25″ | 175 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 32

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Above NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Calle Jarnkrok

Background: Gauthier is an important part of a top QMJHL team even if he hasn’t posted gigantic scoring totals this season. He led the Hlinka Gretzky in goals and was a major reason for Canada winning gold. He was the first overall pick in his QMJHL Draft. His cousin is NHL player Julien Gauthier, and his father, Denis, played over 500 NHL games.

Analysis: Gauthier has very good skill and offensive IQ. He can beat defenders one-on-one at a high rate, making creative plays in small areas and showing he can create a lot for his teammates too. He has talent but also competes well. He is quite physical and can be a nasty player to play against, which you love to see from a smaller player. Gauthier gets to the net and can create chances there frequently. His skating has grown on me as the season has gone along. He has pro quickness, but I find he slows the game down too much and could use more pace in his game. Gauthier can get around defenders when he needs to though, and for that reason I could see a middle six NHL wing.

33. Danny Nelson, C, Usa U-18 (NTDP)

Aug. 3, 2005 | 6′ 3.0″ | 202 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: Not Rated

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Below NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Radek Faksa

Background: Nelson played center and wing for the U.S. NTDP this season. The prior season he was a center for USA, but he played defense at Minnesota High School. He’s played a lot of defense and forward at various times coming up as an amateur. He was named player of the game of the gold medal game at the U18 worlds. He is committed to Notre Dame.

Analysis: Nelson’s toolkit is undeniably intriguing. He’s 6-foot-3, can skate, has good puck skills and can shoot the puck well. His work ethic is good, he has some physicality even if for a big guy I wish he was even harder. Nelson has shown he can kill penalties and was a go-to guy to kill penalties for the U18 team this season. I thought his actual play this season was inconsistent, and his lack of hockey sense showed at times around better players. Whoever drafts him will be drafting a lot of talent, and will have a unique opportunity to mold him into whatever position they think is best. He could be a third line center, a second/third pair defenseman or better at either position. He’s a unique case study, and there’s a case that he has a lot of room to develop, especially given how young he is relative to the draft class and the big jump in competition he made year over year.

34. Anton Wahlberg, C, Malmo Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)

Jul. 4, 2005 | 6′ 3.25″ | 194 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: Not Rated

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: Below NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Pierre Engvall

Background: Wahlberg was an all situations player for Malmo’s J20 team and a top-six forward for Sweden’s U18 team. He got called up to Malmo late in the season where he played a notable role, including in their relegation-round games.

Analysis: Wahlberg’s raw toolkit instantly stand out when you watch. He’s a 6-foot-3 forward who can move very well for his size and has legit offensive skills. The way he can pull pucks by opposing defensemen while moving at a fast pace looks like an NHL forward. He plays a direct style and with his frame plus speed can get to the net very well. I don’t think he’s overly physical, but he has some bite in him, gets to the net, and coaches tend to lean on him. Wahlberg’s biggest issue is a lack of vision and so-so decision making with the puck. Wahlberg played center in the J20 level but played wing with Sweden’s U18 team and in the SHL. If he can score just somewhat as a pro, with his size and speed he will have an NHL career as a middle six forward, whether down the middle or the wing, and I think he’s trending that way.

35. Bradly Nadeau, LW, Penticton (BCHL)

May. 5, 2005 | 5′ 10.0″ | 161 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 28

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: NHL average
Shot: High-end

Player comparable: Victor Olofsson

Background: Nadeau is the best player in the BCHL this season. He’s led Penticton who are the clear best team in the BCHL. He also scored 24 points in 17 playoff games the prior season as Penticton won a BCHL title. Nadeau was cut from Canada’s Hlinka team in the summer. He is committed to the University of Maine.

Analysis: Nadeau has very good individual skill to couple with excellent speed. He’s quite dangerous in transition due to that combination. He can skate by and beat a lot defenders, but he’s also excellent at creating with space. He sees the ice at a high level, making a lot of seam passes and making tough passes on the move. On the power play he can make a lot of plays, but it’s his shot that’s a real weapon. He has an excellent one-timer that projects to beat NHL goalies from distance. His shot is both very quick, and fast, as he rifles pucks into the corners like a legit NHL scorer. Nadeau isn’t the biggest winger and he can play on the perimeter a tad too much, but his compete is good enough — especially with his skating and offense — that I think he plays and scores in the league as a middle-six winger.

36. Oscar Fisker Molgaard, C, Hv 71 (SWEDEN)

Feb. 18, 2005 | 6′ 0.0″ | 163 pounds | Shoots left

March 2023 Ranking: Not Rated

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Dillon Dube

Background: Oscar Fisker Molgaard split time between HV71’s SHL and J20 team this season. He was a top player for Denmark’s U20 team. He captained Denmark’s U18 team as a 16-year-old and was named best forward of the U18 worlds B pool this season. Molgaard also got time with Denmark’s senior team in a notable role.

Analysis: Molgaard has a play style that will translate to playing versus men. He’s a strong skater with a powerful, quick stride. He also has a directness to how he plays. He pushes the pace, and takes pucks to the net. Molgaard has an average-sized frame but doesn’t shy from traffic. He has very good hands and can make tough plays through opponents and to his teammates as well. I can see him being a middle six forward, and while his frame may push him to the wing, he has some of the traits to be a third-line NHL center as well.

37. Maxim Strbak, D, Sioux Falls (USHL)

Apr. 13, 2005 | 6′ 1.5″ | 205 pounds | Shoots right

March 2023 Ranking: 29

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: NHL average
Puck skills: Below NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Above NHL average

Player comparable: Ben Chiarot

Background: Strbak hasn’t put up big offensive numbers in club play between the USHL and Finland’s junior league over the last two seasons. On the international stage he’s been leaned on though. Strbak played a major role on Slovakia’s world junior team, including a 22-minute performance against Canada in the quarterfinals that went to overtime. He was a leading player for Slovakia’s U18 team this season, which went to the semifinals at the worlds. Strbak was a top-four defenseman on the Slovakia team that won silver at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky. He made Slovakia’s 2022 world junior team as a 16-year-old and was a big part of the club that got Slovakia promoted at the U18 level last spring. He is committed to Michigan State University.

Analysis: Strbak is a defense-first defenseman. He’s a tall, right shot who is mobile and makes a lot of stops due to his reach, feet, physicality and overall strong compete level. He brings a strong effort every night, and coaches tend to lean on him in tough situations. I don’t see him as a legit scorer and puck-mover in the NHL, but he’s good enough with the puck, can skate pucks up, and can make enough plays to survive at higher levels. I think he will be a second or third pair defenseman in the NHL depending on the level of offense he brings.

(Illustration: Sean Reilly / The Athletic: photos: Rena Laverty / U.S. NTDP; Minas Panagiotakis, Jaime Crawford / Getty Images)