Evaluating how 23 top NHL prospects have performed in preseason games

For prospect evaluators, there may be no better time than the NHL preseason. The rosters are stacked with young hopefuls, giving their all to win a roster spot, or at least improve their status within their organizations. It’s a chance to see players who previously developed in leagues around the world on the same surface, testing their skills against NHL competition.

Not all of them get the linemates and ice time needed to shine, but they still experience a loose version of NHL hockey — a harder forecheck, a higher level of talent, and the high stakes of competing not just against top-calibre opponents, but also against their peers.  

Here, I’ll review the performance of many standout prospects aspiring to a roster spot this season or in the near future, who may have improved or lowered the