Michael Misa (C, L, 6’1″, 185, Saginaw Spirit, 02/16/2007)
Michael Misa is an elite offensive talent projected to be a top 5 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. His combination of high-end skating, elite hockey IQ, and advanced puck skills makes him a consistent offensive catalyst. Misa thrives as both a playmaker and goal-scorer, demonstrating exceptional ability to process the game at a high pace, make creative plays, and find soft spots in defensive coverage. While his 5-on-5 consistency and defensive game have shown improvement, there remains room for growth in physical engagement and eliminating high-risk plays. With further development, Misa projects as a top-line NHL forward capable of excelling in all situations.
Strengths
Skating:
High-end skater with NHL-level edgework, acceleration and top-end speed.
Uses acceleration and agility to evade defenders and attack the middle lane effectively.
Dynamic ability to change pace on the rush, creating space and opportunities.
Offensive IQ and Playmaking:
Exceptional vision and creativity, often finding linemates in tight spaces and high-danger areas for Grade “A” scoring opportunities.
Processes the game at a high level, making quick, intelligent decisions in possession.
Thrives on give-and-go plays, using his hockey sense to stay one step ahead of opponents.
Shooting:
Quick, deceptive release with good accuracy and velocity.
Comfortable scoring in tight or from distance, often changing shooting angles to fool goaltenders.
Versatility:
Effective two-way play in all three zones; has added defensive awareness and responsibility to his game.
Trusted in key situations, including on the penalty kill (3:00 PK-TOI) and against top competition.
Transition Game:
Produces grade “A” opportunities out of transition with controlled zone entries and creative rush plays.
Uses the full width of the ice to open up options while remaining comfortable attacking through the middle.
Areas for Improvement
Consistency in 5-on-5 Play:
At times, Misa has been less impactful in 5-on-5 situations compared to his expected dominance due to his elite game processing.
Needs to assert himself more consistently at even strength, particularly when games slow down.
Physicality and Compete Level:
While effective in positioning and puck pursuit, he could add more physical engagement in board battles.
Increased strength will allow him to better handle physical play and protect the puck under the harder pressure of National League players.
Risk Management:
Has shown a tendency to make high-risk plays, particularly in the grey areas, leading to unneeded turnovers.
Needs to improve decision-making in these situations to minimize mistakes that will lead to losing games at the NHL level.
Strength Development:
At 185 lbs, adding muscle will enhance his ability to win battles, maintain possession, and withstand physical play at the highest level.
Projection
Michael Misa has the tools to become a top-line NHL forward who can play in all situations. His elite hockey sense, skating, and offensive creativity set him apart as one of the most dynamic players in the 2025 draft class. With continued development in his physical game and decision-making, he has the potential to be a cornerstone player at the NHL level.
Draft Outlook: Top-% pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Player Comparison: Brayden Point – A versatile, high-IQ forward with dynamic skating, elite playmaking, and the ability to excel in critical moments.
Get to know article published on 08/31/2024: Michael Misa, a 6’0″, 175-pound left-shot center, is a potential top-five selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. As a player who received exceptional status and was the 1st overall pick in the OHL Draft, Misa has been on NHL scouts’ radar for his high-end offensive ability and dynamic skating. He has the skill set to be a game-changing talent at the NHL level, though there are specific areas he will need to refine to reach his full potential. NHL scouts will be monitoring his development closely during the 2024/25 season.
Strengths:
- Exceptional Skating Ability: Misa is a dynamic skater with elite edge work and top-end speed. He is equally effective moving forward and backward, which allows him to be elusive in the offensive zone and very effective in transition. His acceleration and agility make him difficult to contain, and he can create separation from defenders in open ice. Misa’s skating also allows him to make plays at high speed, which is a key asset in today’s NHL.
- High Hockey IQ and Playmaking: Misa plays with an advanced understanding of the game. His hockey IQ is evident in his ability to make quick, smart decisions with the puck and in his timing to arrive in open ice at the most opportune times. He excels in the offensive zone, where he consistently creates scoring opportunities for himself and his linemates. Misa is an elite passer with excellent vision, capable of finding teammates in tight spaces and making high-percentage plays. His unselfishness and ability to work the puck in give-and-go situations make him a key offensive catalyst.
- Shooting and Offensive Instincts: Misa has a quick, deceptive release that allows him to score in a variety of ways. He is effective at changing shooting angles to get pucks through traffic, and his shot has some zip, which makes him a threat from multiple areas on the ice. Although not his primary weapon, Misa’s shot complements his playmaking ability and adds to his overall offensive arsenal. His ability to create scoring chances both as a shooter and a passer makes him a versatile offensive threat.
- Power Play Specialist: Misa thrives with the extra time and space afforded on the power play. He is highly effective working from the mid-wall or goal line, using his vision and creativity to quarterback the power play. His ability to find open lanes and make quick decisions under pressure allows him to be a constant threat with the man advantage. Misa’s impact on the power play is a key reason for his offensive success at the junior level.
Areas for Improvement:
- Physical Development and Strength: While Misa’s skill set is top-tier, he still needs to develop more physically to withstand the rigors of the NHL. At 6’0″ and 175 pounds, adding strength and power will be crucial for him to compete more effectively in high-traffic areas and win battles along the boards. His ability to consistently get to the dirty areas of the ice and convert on grade “A” scoring opportunities will improve as he becomes stronger and more resilient in physical confrontations.
- Consistency in 5-on-5 Play: Although Misa has been a dominant force on the power play, scouts have noted that his impact at even strength could be more consistent. He needs to bring the same level of compete and intensity to his 5-on-5 play that he displays with the extra man. Improving his ability to win puck battles, engage physically, and generate offense in 5-on-5 situations will be a key focus moving forward.
- Defensive Game and Two-Way Play: Misa’s offensive game is well-developed, but he will need to round out his defensive game to become a complete 200-foot player. Currently, he is not a key member of the penalty-killing unit, and his defensive responsibilities at even strength could be more pronounced. Scouts will be watching to see if he can improve his defensive positioning, backchecking, and overall engagement in the defensive zone. Developing a stronger two-way game will increase his versatility and value at the NHL level.
- Compete Level and Second Effort: While Misa is highly skilled, there are times when his compete level, particularly in 50/50 puck battles, could be higher. Scouts have noted that he could show more urgency and second effort in these situations, especially when the puck is not on his stick. Elevating his battle level and bringing a more consistent effort in all areas of the ice will be important as he transitions to the pro game.
Conclusion: Michael Misa is an elite offensive talent with top-five potential in the 2025 NHL Draft. His exceptional skating, high hockey IQ, and playmaking ability make him a dynamic presence in the offensive zone. However, for Misa to succeed at the NHL level, he will need to continue developing physically, bring more consistency to his 5-on-5 play, and improve his defensive game. If he can address these areas, Misa has the potential to become a highly impactful NHL top six forward who can excel in all situations. Scouts will be closely monitoring his progress in these areas during the 2024/25 season and beyond.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
