Prospects Edge Closer to NHL Ranks
Five Prospects Navigate NCAA Route in Latest Rankings
This new wave of talent is making its way up the ranks, showing potential without the immediate NHL trajectory. These players have demonstrated stronger performances than those deemed “long shots,” establishing their playstyles against more experienced competition.
Bridging the Gap
Many of these emerging talents are taking a more deliberate development path through the NCAA. This approach allows ample time for necessary improvements before a potential jump to the professional level. One player, however, has already spent four years within the system, kicking off this segment of the countdown.
#43 Riley Kidney: A Declining Trajectory
Riley Kidney, a forward selected in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft, has seen a significant drop in his prospect ranking. After a strong 100-point season in junior hockey, his professional debut with the Laval Rocket was modest.
Last season, Kidney struggled to build on his initial pro experience, recording only 16 points. This dip in production led to him losing his place among the Top 25 prospects and a substantial fall in the rankings over two years, signaling waning confidence in his game.
#42 Luke Mittelstadt: Defensive Growth
Defenseman Luke Mittelstadt, drafted in the seventh round of the 2023 NHL Draft, is showing promise with the University of Minnesota. Despite a smaller frame, his offensive output as a freshman was notable, and his defensive game is steadily developing.
His coach at Minnesota, **Bob Motzko**, believes Mittelstadt’s defensive acumen is his pathway to the NHL. The Canadiens have reportedly shown interest by offering him a minor-league contract, indicating a belief in his potential to make the jump.
#41 Alexis Cournoyer: The Fifth-Round Goalie
Goaltender Alexis Cournoyer, a fifth-round pick in his draft year, stands out as the only first-year player in this ranking group. His journey through various leagues, including the QMJHL and Maritime Hockey League, has been marked by consistently strong save percentages, even reaching .942 with the Cape Breton Eagles.
Cournoyer’s impressive performances caught the attention of the Nashville Predators, but it was Montreal’s draft selection that offered a clearer path within an NHL organization. He is now set to begin his NCAA career at Cornell University, ready to face new challenges.
#40 Quentin Miller: NCAA Opportunity
Goaltender Quentin Miller, previously with the Quebec Remparts, is heading to the University of Denver for his NCAA career. His strong showing in junior hockey led to a ranking of 35th previously, but a move to Junior A resulted in a slight drop.
At Denver, Miller will have an opportunity to compete for playing time following the departure of their previous starter to the AHL. His future ranking will depend on his performance and role within the team.
#39 Rasmus Bergqvist: Steady Defender
Defenseman Rasmus Bergqvist made Sweden’s World Juniors roster, a surprise to many given his statistics. His partnership with fellow blue-liner Axel Sandin-Pellikka was instrumental in his inclusion.
Bergqvist is viewed as a reliable, complementary defenseman rather than an offensive force. The Detroit Red Wings’ plans for Sandin-Pellikka may leave Bergqvist with more responsibility in Skellefteå, though his ability to climb the prospect ranks is limited by the depth of other defensemen.
#38 Logan Sawyer: Consistent Freshman
Forward Logan Sawyer, who completed his freshman season at Providence College, contributed 16 points in 37 games. His performance was consistent with his debut ranking of 37th.
Drafted in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft, Sawyer’s work ethic is notable. Despite a modest point total, his performance is viewed positively in the context of his team’s scoring leader. The commitment of prospect Roger McQueen could create more offensive chances for Sawyer.
#37 Sam Harris: NCAA Champion
Forward Sam Harris, a teammate of Quentin Miller at the University of Denver, has already tasted championship success, winning the NCAA title in 2024. He also contributed to Team USA’s World Junior A Challenge victory.
Harris saw a significant improvement in his sophomore season, scoring 23 goals and adding 12 assists. His strong two-way game and defensive pressure make him a valuable bottom-six forward. He is projected to crack the Top 25 next year as more experienced players graduate.
#36 Filip Eriksson: Re-Evaluating Potential
Forward Filip Eriksson made an impressive debut last season in HockeyAllsvenskan, but his recent SHL performance has led to a ten-spot drop in the rankings. Despite playing more SHL games, his point total remained stagnant.
Eriksson is a smart, defensively responsible player who showed offensive promise last year. To maintain his ranking, he will need to recapture his previous form and demonstrate more consistent offensive output.
The next tier, “Near Misses,” will feature ten players this year, a reflection of the growing prospect pool. The gap between Eriksson at 36th and the 35th-ranked player represents the largest difference in the entire ranking order.
