If you’re a die-hard NHL fan eager to learn about the next wave of NHL talent, Neutral Zone’s rankings of current prospects are a must-read. What sets these evaluations apart? They come from Ian Moran, a 13-year NHL veteran who spent a total of 15 seasons playing professional hockey across North America and Europe. With international experience representing the U.S. in World Junior Championships and a World Championship, Moran’s insights come from a truly global perspective. Now Director of NHL Scouting for Neutral Zone, Moran leverages his unique, firsthand knowledge to provide in-depth, unbiased evaluations you won’t find anywhere else. Get the expert analysis that offers a clear view of the future, straight from someone who’s lived the game at the highest level.
1. Carter Yakemchuk – Defenseman
Carter Yakemchuk (D, R, 6’3″, 201, Calgary Hitmen, 09/29/2005)
Strengths: Yakemchuk’s physicality and puck-moving abilities make him an impactful two-way defenseman. His skating is fluid for his size, allowing him to join the rush effectively. He displays sound decision-making in transition and has a hard, accurate shot from the point. Areas for Improvement: He can be prone to defensive lapses when pressured. Needs to improve his gap control and defensive positioning, especially against faster forwards. Building more consistency in physical battles will be key for his NHL readiness.
2. Gabriel Eliasson – Defenseman
Gabriel Eliasson (D, L, 6’6″, 192, HV71, 09/09/2006, Michigan)
Strengths: Eliasson plays a composed, cerebral game on the backend. He’s a smooth skater with excellent vision, which makes him a key player in the breakout. His ability to read plays in the defensive zone is highly advanced for his age. Areas for Improvement: While his hockey IQ is high, he sometimes lacks physicality, which could be exposed at the NHL level. Adding muscle and a more aggressive approach in board battles will round out his game.
3. Tyler Kleven – Defenseman
Tyler Kleven (D, L, 6’4″, 201, NTDP U18, 01/10/2002, North Dakota)
Strengths: Kleven is a physical presence on the blue line. His heavy, punishing style is well-suited for a bottom-pairing role at the NHL level. He is excellent at clearing the front of the net and uses his size effectively to shut down plays. Areas for Improvement: Kleven needs to work on his puck skills and offensive decision-making. His passing and transition game could use refinement to avoid turnovers in pressure situations.
4. Zack Ostapchuk – Left Wing
Zack Ostapchuk (C, L, 6’2″, 205, Vancouver Giants, 05/29/2003)
Strengths: Ostapchuk is a power forward with size, strength, and a nose for the net. He excels in puck protection and is very effective below the goal line and in the corners. His willingness to drive to the net opens up space for his linemates. Areas for Improvement: Ostapchuk’s skating needs refinement, especially his first few steps. He’ll need to develop a quicker release on his shot and improve his overall puck-handling to be more effective in the NHL.
5. Xavier Bourgault – Right Wing
Xavier Bourgault (C, R, 6’0″, 172, Shawnigan Cataractes, 10/22/2002)
Strengths: Bourgault is a dynamic offensive player with a lethal shot and quick release. He has excellent puck skills, making him a threat in one-on-one situations. His creativity and vision allow him to set up teammates for prime scoring chances. Areas for Improvement: His play without the puck needs more development. Defensively, he needs to engage more and work on his positioning. Adding strength to handle the physical grind of the NHL is crucial.
6. Tyler Boucher – Right Wing
Tyler Boucher (RW, R, 6’1″, 205, Ottawa 67s, 01/16/2003, Boston University)
Strengths: Boucher plays a power-forward style, bringing energy, physicality, and a willingness to battle in tough areas. He excels in forechecking, finishing hits, and crashing the net. His ability to disrupt opponents and create space is a key asset. Areas for Improvement: He needs to develop better puck skills, especially in tight spaces. His offensive consistency is another area of focus, as he can be streaky with his scoring. More disciplined play, reducing unnecessary penalties, will be important for his progression.
7. Mads Sogaard – Goalie
Mads Sogaard (G, L, 6’6″, 185, Medicine Hat Tigers, 12/13/2000)
Strengths: Søgaard is a large, athletic goaltender with excellent lateral movement. His size allows him to cover the net well, and he’s strong in controlling rebounds. His calm demeanor under pressure is a major asset. Areas for Improvement: He needs to improve his puck-handling skills behind the net and his consistency in reading plays. Tightening up on high-danger shots and his post-play are key areas for further development.
8. Jorian Donovan – Defenseman
Jorian Donovan (D, L, 6’2″, 181, Brantford Bulldogs, 04/05/2004)
Strengths: Donovan is a mobile defenseman with solid puck skills. He has good vision and can lead the breakout with effective passing. His skating ability allows him to close gaps quickly, and he’s shown offensive upside from the blue line. Areas for Improvement: He can be inconsistent defensively, especially in terms of his positioning. Building more strength to win battles and improving his decision-making under pressure will elevate his game.
9. Leevi Merilainen – Goalie
Leevi Merilainen (G, L, 6’3″, 184, Kingston Frontenacs, 08/13/2002)
Strengths: Meriläinen is technically sound and positionally strong. His ability to track pucks and make timely saves in high-pressure moments stands out. His quick reflexes allow him to make stops on lateral plays effectively. Areas for Improvement: Needs to work on rebound control and handling traffic in front of the net. Bulk and strength will be essential as he transitions to a higher level of play in North America.
10. Stephen Halliday – Center
Stephen Halliday (F, L, 6’4″, 234, Dubuque Fighting Saints, 07/02/2002, Ohio State)
Strengths: Halliday is a playmaker with excellent hockey IQ and vision. He has the ability to slow the game down and distribute the puck effectively. His size and puck protection make him difficult to knock off the puck. Areas for Improvement: Halliday’s skating is his biggest concern. He needs to improve his foot speed and agility to match the pace of the NHL. Additionally, adding a more consistent defensive game will make him a more well-rounded player.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images