Logan Hensler (D, R, 6’2″, 192, University of Wisconsin, 10/14/2006, Wisconsin)
Logan Hensler, a 6’2″, 192-pound right-shot defenseman, is emerging as a strong candidate for a top-ten selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. His combination of size, skating, and two-way play makes him a highly appealing prospect for NHL teams, and his development at the University of Wisconsin during the 2024-25 season will be critical in solidifying his draft stock.
Hensler’s skating is a standout asset, particularly for a player of his size. He displays the smooth, effortless glide often seen in smaller defensemen, allowing him to move efficiently while setting his gap or taking away time and apace as an opponent receives a pass. His ability to walk the offensive blue line with poise, pulling pucks off the walls with his eyes up, and transitioning to the middle of the ice creates better shooting lanes and scoring opportunities are traits that every NHL team craves in a young defenseman with his size. His power and leg drive are evident when defending, as he can clear opponents from the net front and effectively end cycles by pinning his man to the boards.
Offensively, Hensler shows promise, particularly in his ability to use his feet to generate passing and shooting lanes from the blue line. His big stride and underrated speed enable him to exit the defensive zone cleanly and quickly, making him an effective player in creating transition when there are no passing lanes. His NTDP coaches trusted him in all situations, giving him significant ice time on both the power play and penalty kill.
Key areas for improvement for Logan Hensler as he heads into the 2024-25 season at the University of Wisconsin include:
- Puck Management and Decision-Making: Hensler needs to work on making quicker, more efficient decisions with the puck, particularly under intense pressure. His tendency to hold onto the puck too long, especially on the power play, has led to forced plays and turnovers. Improving his ability to read the play and make smarter, faster decisions will be crucial for his development.
- Consistency in Offensive Contributions: While Hensler shows promise in his ability to walk the offensive blue line and create shooting opportunities, he needs to consistently translate his skating and puck skills into offensive production. Enhancing his vision and decision-making in the offensive zone will help him become a more reliable contributor.
- Defensive Awareness and Positioning: Although Hensler is physically capable of defending well, particularly in net-front battles and along the boards, further refining his defensive awareness, positioning and reading the layers to an opponent’s attack will be crucial to his success at the professional level. Being more consistent in anticipating plays and closing gaps quickly can make him more effective in the defensive two-thirds of the ice.
- Handling Pressure in High-Stakes Situations: Hensler will benefit from consistently scanning the ice which will lead to confidence in high-pressure situations. Being able to stay composed and make the right plays when the stakes are high will enhance his reliability as a top-pair defenseman.
By focusing on these areas, Hensler can maximize his potential and strengthen his case as a top-ten pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
In summary, Hensler’s size, skating ability, and two-way potential make him a strong contender for a top-ten pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. If he can refine his decision-making and continue to develop his offensive game at Wisconsin, he has the physical skill set to become an impact defenseman at the National Hockey League level. Scouts will be watching closely to see how he addresses these areas of his game during the upcoming season.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images