The 2025-26 NHL season was marked by a significant surge of young talent entering the league. Today’s draft prospects are more prepared for the professional level than ever before, with several quickly emerging as foundational players for their respective franchises.
Projected NHL Under-23 Team for 2025-26
Here’s a look at some of the emerging stars who are poised to make a substantial impact:
Forwards
- Connor Bedard: The generational talent continues to dominate, showcasing elite scoring ability and playmaking skills.
- Matvei Michkov: Despite questions about his transition to North America, Michkov’s offensive firepower is undeniable, and he’s proving to be a dynamic force.
- Logan Cooley: Cooley has quickly established himself as a premier offensive center, driving play and creating scoring opportunities with his speed and vision.
- Adam Fantilli: A powerful skater with a strong shot, Fantilli is a significant offensive threat who uses his size and skill to his advantage.
- Leo Carlsson: The young Swede has translated his impressive junior success into NHL production, demonstrating maturity and a high hockey IQ.
- Macklin Celebrini: The presumptive top pick of the 2024 draft, Celebrini is already showing signs of being an impact player at the NHL level.
Defensemen
- Quinn Hughes: While no longer technically under-23 by the end of the season, his early career trajectory makes him a benchmark for this age group. His offensive contributions and skating are elite.
- Luke Hughes: Quinn’s younger brother has followed a similar path, quickly becoming a key offensive defenseman with a powerful shot and strong skating.
- Simon Nemec: Nemec has shown remarkable poise and offensive upside from the backend, contributing significantly to his team’s success.
- Brandt Clarke: Clarke’s offensive instincts and puck-moving ability have made him a valuable asset on the blueline.
- Brandt Clarke: Clarke’s offensive instincts and puck-moving ability have made him a valuable asset on the blueline.
- Lane Hutson: A smaller defenseman, Hutson compensates with exceptional skating, vision, and offensive creativity.
Goaltenders
- Jesper Wallstedt: Wallstedt has been steadily developing and is showing the potential to become a top-tier NHL goaltender with his technical skills and mental fortitude.
- Devon Levi: Levi’s athleticism and competitive drive have been on full display, establishing him as a reliable presence in net.
This group represents the future of the NHL, and their continued development will be fascinating to watch in the coming seasons.