Top 100 NHL Prospects for 2025. Explore the top names, league representation, and insights from top scouting sources. Check out the full rankings now!

NHL Top Prospects 2025 (List)

Top NHL Prospects for 2025

<p><img src="https://cdn.eprinkside.com/fm/eprinkside/files/2/images/2025-02/Mike%20StobeNHLI.png" alt="" width="1500" height="1000" /><br />Photo: Mike Stobe/NHLI</p>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft Lottery</strong> is one of the most exciting moments in hockey's offseason, determining which non-playoff teams get the best chance to select future franchise players. But <strong>how does the NHL Draft Lottery work</strong>, and what are the <strong>NHL Draft Lottery rules</strong>? Here&rsquo;s everything you need to know.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>What Is the NHL Draft Lottery?</h2>
<p>The NHL Draft Lottery is a system used to decide the order of the first <strong>16 picks</strong> in the NHL Draft. Instead of automatically awarding the <strong>No. 1 overall pick</strong> to the team with the worst regular-season record, the league holds a lottery to ensure fairness and prevent teams from deliberately losing games (tanking) to secure a top selection.</p>
<p>The lottery only affects the <strong>first round</strong> of the draft&mdash;after that, the <strong>NHL Draft order rules</strong> follow the reverse standings from the previous season.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>How Does the NHL Draft Lottery Work?</h2>
<p>Each non-playoff team is assigned <strong>a set of lottery odds</strong> based on its finish in the standings. The lower the team&rsquo;s ranking, the better its chances of winning the lottery.</p>
<p>The lottery itself works like this:</p>
<ol start="1" data-spread="false">
<li>
<p><strong>A lottery machine with 14 ping-pong balls</strong> creates <strong>1,001 possible four-number combinations</strong>.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Each team is assigned a share of those combinations, based on their odds.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>A <strong>first draw</strong> determines which team wins the No. 1 pick.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>A <strong>second draw</strong> determines the No. 2 pick.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>If a team from outside the bottom 11 wins, they can only move up <strong>a maximum of 10 spots</strong>, meaning the worst team in the standings is still guaranteed at least the <strong>third overall pick</strong>.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>After the first two picks are decided, the remaining teams are placed in order of their regular-season standings.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>NHL Draft Lottery Rules</h2>
<p>The current <strong>NHL Draft Lottery rules</strong> were last adjusted in <strong>2021</strong>. Here are the key points:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Only <strong>two picks</strong> are determined by the lottery (No. 1 and No. 2).</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>A team <strong>cannot move up more than 10 spots</strong> in the draft order.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>A team <strong>cannot win the lottery more than twice in a five-year span</strong> (starting from 2022).</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>If a team in slots <strong>12-16 wins</strong>, they move up the maximum <strong>10 spots</strong>, and the team with the worst record retains the No. 1 overall pick.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>These rules ensure a balance between giving struggling teams a chance at elite talent while maintaining competition integrity.</p>
<h3>Let's take a look at the 2023 NHL Draft</h3>
<p>In the <strong data-start="7" data-end="33"><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/draft/nhl-entry-draft/2023">2023 NHL Draft</a> Lottery</strong>, the <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/56/chicago-blackhawks"><strong data-start="39" data-end="61">Chicago Blackhawks</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/1580/anaheim-ducks"><strong data-start="66" data-end="83">Anaheim Ducks</strong></a> emerged as the winners of the two lottery draws held on <strong data-start="140" data-end="155">May 8, 2023</strong>. Despite entering with the <strong data-start="183" data-end="210">third-best odds (11.5%)</strong>, Chicago moved up <strong data-start="229" data-end="242">two spots</strong> to secure the <strong data-start="257" data-end="279">No. 1 overall pick</strong>, ultimately selecting <strong data-start="302" data-end="319">Connor Bedard</strong>. Meanwhile, the <strong data-start="336" data-end="353">Anaheim Ducks</strong>, who had the <strong data-start="367" data-end="388">best odds (18.5%)</strong>, and the <strong data-start="398" data-end="431"><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/58/columbus-blue-jackets">Columbus Blue Jackets</a> (13.5%)</strong> each slid down <strong data-start="447" data-end="459">one spot</strong>, with Anaheim landing the <strong data-start="486" data-end="500">No. 2 pick</strong> and Columbus selecting at <strong data-start="527" data-end="536">No. 3</strong>. This outcome highlighted the unpredictability of the NHL Draft Lottery, where even teams with lower odds can land the most coveted prospects.<br /><br /><strong>2023 Draft Lottery Odds&nbsp;<br /></strong>Source: https://media.nhl.com/site/asset/public/ext/2022-23/2023DraftLotteryGuide.pdf</p>
<table style="width: 56.7029%; height: 380.773px;" data-start="67" data-end="663">
<thead data-start="67" data-end="101">
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="67" data-end="101">
<th style="width: 70.1245%; text-align: justify; height: 22.3984px;" data-start="67" data-end="92">Team</th>
<th style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;" data-start="92" data-end="101">Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody data-start="136" data-end="663">
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="136" data-end="169">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Anaheim Ducks</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">18.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="170" data-end="203">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Columbus Blue Jackets</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">13.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="204" data-end="237">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Chicago Blackhawks</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">11.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="238" data-end="270">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">San Jose Sharks</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">9.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="271" data-end="303">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Montreal Canadiens</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">8.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="304" data-end="336">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Arizona Coyotes</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">7.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="337" data-end="369">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Philadelphia Flyers</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">6.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="370" data-end="402">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Washington Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">6.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="403" data-end="435">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Detroit Red Wings</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">5.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="436" data-end="467">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">St. Louis Blues</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">3.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="468" data-end="500">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Vancouver Canucks</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">3.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="501" data-end="533">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Ottawa Senators*</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">2.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="534" data-end="565">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Buffalo Sabres</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">2.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="566" data-end="597">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Pittsburgh Penguins</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">1.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="598" data-end="630">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Nashville Predators</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">0.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3984px;" data-start="631" data-end="663">
<td style="width: 70.1245%; height: 22.3984px;">Calgary Flames</td>
<td style="width: 29.8755%; height: 22.3984px; text-align: center;">0.5%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><em>* Under the terms of a March 1, 2023, trade, the Ottawa Senators transfered their first-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft to the Arizona Coyotes</em></p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>History of the NHL Draft Lottery</h2>
<p>The NHL Draft Lottery was introduced in <strong>1995</strong> as a way to prevent teams from tanking. Over the years, the system has undergone several changes:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p><strong>1995-2015:</strong> Any non-playoff team could win the No. 1 pick, but only one lottery draw was held.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>2016:</strong> The system expanded to include <strong>three draws</strong>, meaning the top three picks were all decided by the lottery.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>2021:</strong> The current system was introduced, limiting teams to moving up <strong>10 spots</strong> and preventing them from winning the lottery more than twice in five years.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Some of the biggest <strong>lottery winners</strong> in history include:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p><strong>2005:</strong> <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/71/pittsburgh-penguins">Pittsburgh Penguins</a> won the right to draft <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/6146/sidney-crosby"><strong>Sidney Crosby</strong>.</a></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>2015:</strong> <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/team/61/edmonton-oilers">Edmonton Oilers</a> won the <strong><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/183442/connor-mcdavid">Connor McDavid</a> sweepstakes</strong>.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>2023:</strong> Chicago Blackhawks moved up to draft <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/535584/connor-bedard"><strong>Connor Bedard</strong></a>.</p>
</li>
</ul>

Learn how the NHL Draft Lottery works, including the rules, odds, and how the draft order is decided. Find out what impacts a team’s chance at the No. 1 pick.

How Does the NHL Draft Lottery Work? Rules & Odds

How Does the NHL Draft Lottery Work?

<p><img src="https://cdn.eprinkside.com/fm/eprinkside/files/2/images/2025-02/Gary%20Bettman%20at%20the%20NHL%20Draft.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1280" /><br /><br /></p>
<p><br />The <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is a crucial event in professional hockey, providing teams with the opportunity to build their future rosters by selecting top young talent. Understanding the <strong>NHL draft rules, eligibility criteria, and selection process</strong> is essential for players, fans, and analysts alike. This guide explains everything you need to know about how the NHL Draft works.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>What Is the NHL Draft?</h2>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is an annual event where teams select eligible players to join their organizations. It takes place in <strong>late June</strong>, after the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The draft order is determined by team standings and a weighted lottery system designed to maintain competitive balance in the league.</p>
<p>Each of the <strong>32 NHL teams</strong> is allotted one pick per round, resulting in a standard <strong>seven-round draft with 224 selections</strong> unless trades alter the distribution.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>NHL Draft Eligibility Rules</h2>
<p>A player's eligibility for the <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is based on specific age and participation criteria:</p>
<h3>Age Requirements</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Players must be at least <strong>18 years old</strong> by <strong>September 15</strong> of the draft year.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>North American players cannot be older than <strong>20 years old</strong>.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>International players are eligible up to the age of <strong>21</strong> if they have not previously played in the NHL.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Undrafted Players</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>If a player is not selected in their first year of eligibility, they can be drafted in later years as long as they meet the age criteria.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Players who remain undrafted after becoming ineligible can enter the league as unrestricted free agents.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>These <strong>NHL draft age rules</strong> ensure a structured and fair pathway for young talent entering the league.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>How Does the NHL Draft Work?</h2>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft</strong> follows a systematic process that includes a <strong>draft lottery, a defined order for playoff teams, and the ability to trade picks</strong>. Here&rsquo;s how it works:</p>
<h3>1. The NHL Draft Lottery</h3>
<p>The <strong>draft lottery</strong> is used to determine the order of selection for teams that did not qualify for the playoffs:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>The <strong>16 non-playoff teams</strong> are entered into the lottery.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The lottery randomly assigns the first, second, and third overall picks.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The remaining teams are ordered based on their <strong>regular-season standings</strong> from worst to best.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>The lottery is designed to <strong>prevent tanking</strong>, ensuring that the lowest-ranked teams have the best odds of securing a high pick but are not guaranteed the top spot.&nbsp;<br /><br />Do you want to learn more about <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/page/how-does-the-nhl-draft-lottery-work">how the NHL Draft Lottery works?</a></p>
<h3>2. Playoff Teams&rsquo; Draft Order</h3>
<p>The <strong>16 teams that made the Stanley Cup Playoffs</strong> are placed at the end of the selection order, ranked in reverse order of <strong>regular-season performance</strong>. The team with the <strong>best record</strong> picks last unless they have acquired a higher pick through trades.</p>
<h3>3. Trading Draft Picks</h3>
<p>One of the most strategic aspects of the <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is the ability to trade draft picks. Teams may trade picks in advance or on draft day to:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Move up in the draft to select a coveted player.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Acquire additional selections to build depth.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Exchange picks for veteran players who can immediately impact their roster.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>This adds a dynamic element to the drafting process, as teams balance long-term development with immediate roster needs.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>How Many Rounds Are in the NHL Draft?</h2>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft consists of seven rounds</strong>, giving each team multiple opportunities to acquire talent. While the <strong>first-round picks</strong> receive the most attention, players selected in later rounds often go on to have successful NHL careers.</p>
<p>Notable late-round picks include:</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/8615/pavel-datsyuk">Pavel Datsyuk</a> (6th round, 171st overall, 1998, Detroit Red Wings)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/285/henrik-zetterberg">Henrik Zetterberg</a> (7th round, 210th overall, 1999, Detroit Red Wings)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/702/daniel-alfredsson">Daniel Alfredsson</a> (6th round, 133rd overall, 1994, Ottawa Senators)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/286/henrik-lundqvist">Henrik Lundqvist</a> (7th round, 205th overall, 2000, New York Rangers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/4282/pekka-rinne">Pekka Rinne</a> (8th round, 258th overall, 2004, Nashville Predators)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/10372/joe-pavelski">Joe Pavelski</a> (7th round, 205th overall, 2003, San Jose Sharks)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/21334/luc-robitaille">Luc Robitaille</a> (9th round, 171st overall, 1984, Los Angeles Kings)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/15399/jamie-benn">Jamie Benn</a> (5th round, 129th overall, 2007, Dallas Stars)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/8596/pavol-demitra">Pavol Demitra</a> (9th round, 227th overall, 1993, Ottawa Senators)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/16140/pavel-bure">Pavel Bure</a> (6th round, 113th overall, 1989, Vancouver Canucks)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/8665/dominik-hasek">Dominik Ha&scaron;ek</a> (10th round, 199th overall, 1983, Chicago Blackhawks)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/8553/peter-bondra">Peter Bondra</a> (8th round, 156th overall, 1990, Washington Capitals)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/21306/theo-fleury">Theo Fleury</a> (8th round, 166th overall, 1987, Calgary Flames)</li>
</ul>
<p>These examples highlight the importance of scouting and development beyond the early rounds.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>What Happens on NHL Draft Day?</h2>
<p>Draft day is an exciting event that follows a structured process:</p>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p><strong>Teams make selections in order, with a time limit for each pick.</strong></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Player interviews and scouting reports</strong> influence team decisions.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Trade activity often intensifies</strong>, as teams look to improve their draft position or acquire roster players.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Drafted players do not immediately join the NHL.</strong> Many continue their development in junior, college, or European leagues before transitioning to the professional level.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>What Happens After the NHL Draft?</h2>
<p>For players selected in the draft, the journey is just beginning. The following steps outline what happens next:</p>
<h3>1. Signing an Entry-Level Contract</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Drafted players typically sign a <strong>three-year entry-level contract (ELC)</strong>.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The contract includes a structured salary and bonus system to ensure fair compensation for young players.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Attending Development Camps</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>NHL teams host <strong>development camps</strong> shortly after the draft to assess and train new prospects.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>These camps focus on skill development, conditioning, and acclimating players to a professional environment.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Returning to Junior, College, or European Leagues</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Many drafted players continue playing in their original leagues until they are ready to transition to the NHL or AHL.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>4. Progressing to the AHL or NHL</h3>
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>
<p>Some first-round picks may immediately join the NHL, but most prospects develop in the <strong>AHL (American Hockey League)</strong> before making their NHL debut.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>Why the NHL Draft Is Important</h2>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is more than just a selection process&mdash;it is a fundamental aspect of building a competitive team. By understanding <strong>how the NHL Draft works</strong>, including its <strong>rules, eligibility requirements, and strategic aspects</strong>, fans and players can gain deeper insights into the league&rsquo;s future stars and team-building strategies.</p>
<p>The draft also plays a crucial role in maintaining competitive balance across the league, giving struggling teams access to top-tier talent while rewarding successful franchises with the challenge of finding hidden gems later in the draft.</p>
<div><hr /></div>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>The <strong>NHL Draft</strong> is one of the most important events in hockey, shaping the future of teams and players alike. Whether you&rsquo;re a prospect aspiring to be drafted, a dedicated fan tracking your team&rsquo;s selections, or a newcomer looking to understand the process, knowing the <strong>rules, structure, and significance of the draft</strong> enhances the experience of following the NHL.</p>

How does the NHL Draft work? Learn everything about NHL draft rules, eligibility requirements, age limits, how many rounds there are, and how teams select players.

How Does the NHL Draft Work? Key Rules & Who’s Eligible

How Does the NHL Draft Work?

<p><img src="https://lh7-eu.googleusercontent.com/9uUOPrBrj-vdBeeeoW1WHqOVqdACTT0v9qp6C1KSGIG5bD96xaF0hkbUl-esFFHycfsDZlFBFi1hft2yzL3vORid0YILjQYpmlZxTilRpQEs-vLr5S8Mo68vw6ikyQFEBRrPJdJ_mSk8RDFfnZQOjGQ" width="100%"></p>
<p dir="ltr">The 2024 NHL Draft Lottery lacked movement for the first time since 2010, with all teams picking in the same order as their regular season finishes, allowing the San Jose Sharks the first pick to select Macklin Celebrini.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Despite this static start, the draft promises plenty of surprises, with the second pick and beyond highly unpredictable, featuring a wide array of potential choices. This unpredictability enriches the intrigue of our mock draft of the first 16 picks. Notably, this draft also marks the first time Utah will make a selection, adding a significant moment for the new team to establish its roster.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">The 2024 NHL Mock Draft:</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Elite Prospects Director of Film Scouting, <a href="https://eprinkside.com/author/cam-robinson">Cam Robinson</a>, has produced the 2024 NHL Mock Draft for the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, providing detailed insights and reasoning behind each mock draft pick. This page offers a concise summarization of the first 16 picks as projected by the mock draft.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. San Jose Sharks - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/597559/macklin-celebrini">Macklin Celebrini</a>, C, Boston University (NCAA)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Celebrini is a top-tier, well-rounded center with a strong offensive and defensive game, fitting perfectly as the Sharks' future number one center.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Chicago Blackhawks - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/619217/artyom-levshunov">Artyom Levshunov</a>, D, Michigan State (NCAA)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Levshunov, a mature and mobile two-way defender, is seen as the best defenseman available, filling a crucial role for the Blackhawks.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. Anaheim Ducks - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/619202/ivan-demidov">Ivan Demidov</a>, RW, SKA St Petersburg (MHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Demidov combines elite hands and a powerful shot, potentially becoming the draft's most dynamic offensive player.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">4. Columbus Blue Jackets - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/739213/cayden-lindstrom">Cayden Lindstrom</a>, C, Medicine Hat (WHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Despite an injury-shortened season, Lindstrom's high-end hockey sense and skills suggest he could form a formidable duo with Adam Fantilli for the Blue Jackets.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">5. Montr&eacute;al Canadiens - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/679717/tij-iginla">Tij Iginla</a>, W, Kelowna (WHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Iginla is a high-energy winger with a great shot and defensive potential, adding a top offensive talent to the Canadiens' pipeline.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">6. Utah - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/535574/zayne-parekh">Zayne Parekh</a>, D, Saginaw (OHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Parekh, a highly productive defenseman in the OHL, is selected to bolster Utah's defensive corps with his offensive capabilities and improving defensive work.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">7. Ottawa Senators - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/597797/berkly-catton">Berkly Catton</a>, C, Spokane (WHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Catton is chosen for his explosive offensive skills and potential as a first-line player, despite some concerns about his ability to play center at the NHL level.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">8. Seattle Kraken - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/723441/sam-dickinson">Sam Dickinson</a>, D, London Knights (OHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Dickinson is expected to be a future top-pairing defender, noted for his impressive point production and solid defensive play in the OHL.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">9. Calgary Flames - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/603229/zeev-buium">Zeev Buium</a>, D, Denver (NCAA)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Buium, who produced points at an impressive rate, is seen as a versatile defender who will play in all situations for the Flames.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">10. New Jersey Devils - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/835541/anton-silayev">Anton Silayev</a>, D, Torpedo (KHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">At 6-foot-7, Silayev brings immense size and skating ability, expected to be a significant defensive presence for the Devils.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">11. Buffalo Sabres - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/597619/cole-eiserman">Cole Eiserman</a>, W, USNTDP (USHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Eiserman, the most decorated scorer in USNTDP history, is predicted to be a prolific goal scorer in the NHL.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">12. Philadelphia Flyers - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/796075/konsta-helenius">Konsta Helenius</a>, C, (Liiga)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Helenius, known for his attention to detail and smart play, is selected for his potential as a highly useful two-way center.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">13. Minnesota Wild - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/619176/michael-brandsegg-nygard">Michael Brandsegg-Nyg&aring;rd</a>, C, Mora (HockeyAllsvenskan)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Brandsegg-Nyg&aring;rd is viewed as a NHL-ready, two-way center who could fill a long-term top-six role for the Wild.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">14. San Jose Sharks (from Pittsburgh Penguins) - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/577196/beckett-sennecke">Beckett Sennecke</a>, RW, Oshawa (OHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Sennecke, known for his playmaking and performance in the OHL playoffs, is picked for his offensive potential.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">15. Detroit Red Wings - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/577205/liam-greentree">Liam Greentree</a>, RW, Windsor (OHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Greentree is chosen for his exceptional skill set, with the potential to significantly contribute to the Red Wings' rebuilding efforts.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">16. St Louis Blues - <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/599451/carter-yakemchuk">Carter Yakemchuk</a>, D, Calgary (WHL)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Yakemchuk, a strong and skilled defender, is seen as a future cornerstone for the Blues' defense.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr">Thank you for exploring our 2024 NHL Mock Draft. We appreciate your interest and are just as excited as you to see how these predictions unfold during the actual draft. Stay tuned, and let&rsquo;s see how these talented young players begin their promising NHL careers. And don't forget, we also provide the greatest <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/nhl-draft-guide">NHL Draft Guide</a> and <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/nhl-fantasy-hockey-guide">fantasy draft guide</a> in the business!<strong id="docs-internal-guid-c54f011b-7fff-8b62-bdda-94900a9ff16f"></strong></p>
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Check out our 2024 NHL Mock Draft for the first 16 picks and see who leads the pack — click to read more!

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