Caleb Desnoyers (C, L, 6’2″, 180, Moncton Wildcats, 04/11/2007)
Caleb Desnoyers is a dynamic, two-way center with elite hockey IQ, positional awareness, and strong offensive instincts. His combination of size, skating, and leadership makes him a cornerstone prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. Desnoyers consistently impacts the game at both ends of the ice, utilizing his vision, playmaking ability, and defensive reliability to lead his team. While his skating and physicality are good, they can be improved to unlock his full potential at the National League level. Desnoyers projects as a versatile NHL center capable of excelling in all situations.
Strengths:
Hockey IQ and Vision:
Superior hockey sense, and game processing allowing him to anticipate plays and find linemates in prime scoring areas.
Excellent peripheral vision and passing ability, creating Grade “A” chances for himself (3.7 per game) and his linemates.
Strong decision-maker under pressure, blending patience and creativity to dictate the pace of play.
Two-Way Play and Defensive Reliability:
Exceptional defensive awareness; consistently supports defensemen in battles and maintains net-side positioning during both wall battles and while cycling.
Reliable penalty killer with the ability to read plays, intercept passes, and transition quickly to offense.
Effective in the faceoff circle, winning 62% of draws and demonstrating the ability to control key situations.
Offensive Skill Set:
Heavy, accurate shot with a quick unpredictable release, allowing him to score from high in the slot and perceived low percentage angles below the face-off dots.
Skilled puck handler, capable of maintaining possession in tight areas and winning wall battles.
Capable of creating grade “A” scoring chances for himself and finishing plays that his teammates have generated, making him a dual-threat offensive weapon.
Physicality and Compete Level:
Uses his size and frame to protect the puck and power himself into shooting areas.
Defensively he can disrupt opponents by going shoulder to shoulder with them and then separating their hands from the puck.
Engages physically, averaging 1.52 hard hits per game and winning 55% of 50/50 puck battles.
High compete level with relentless effort on both forecheck and backcheck, consistently leading by example.
Leadership and Intangibles:
Although he does not wear a letter for Moncton it is obvious that he is a leader and the driving force for the team’s success.
Although offensively gifted he plays a team-first game.
Thrives under pressure, delivering in high-stakes moments such as his game-winning goal for Canada in the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup final.
Areas for Improvement:
Skating Mechanics and Top-End Speed:
While he has strong acceleration and a long stride, his foot speed and explosiveness need further refinement to match elite NHL centers.
Improving his quickness will enhance his ability to create separation and recover defensively.
Strength and Physical Development:
At 180 lbs, Desnoyers needs to add muscle to improve his effectiveness in puck battles and withstand the rigors of the National League.
Greater strength will complement his physical style and make him even more dominant in contested areas.
Shot Selection and Puck Management:
Averages 1.45 shots blocked per game, indicating a need to improve his deception to avoid forcing plays.
Reducing giveaways (4.5 per game) will enhance his overall efficiency and help maintain offensive zone pressure.
2024/25 Season with Moncton Wildcats:
Averaging 19:04 total ice time, including 3:02 on the power play and 1:00 on the penalty kill.
Contributing 3.7 Grade “A” scoring chances and 3.5 shots on goal per game, showcasing his offensive consistency.
Strong faceoff performance at 62%, consistently controlling puck possession.
2024 Hlinka-Gretzky Cup:
Recorded points in all five games, including the game-winning goal in the final against Czechia.
Excelled in both offensive and defensive roles, showing poise, patience, and leadership throughout the tournament.
Played significant minutes on both the power play and penalty kill, reinforcing his versatility.
Projection
Caleb Desnoyers has all the tools to become a cornerstone, top-line center in the NHL. His blend of size, skill, and two-way reliability makes him a safe pick with significant upside. With improvements in skating, strength, and shot selection, Desnoyers could develop into a perennial Selke Trophy contender who contributes in all situations.
Draft Outlook: Mid-first-round pick with potential to rise into the top 10.
Player Comparison: Patrice Bergeron – A smart, versatile center with elite hockey IQ, strong two-way play, and leadership qualities.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images