Elijah Neuenschwander (G, L, 6’4″, 194, HC Fribourg-Gottéron, 10/17/2006)
Elijah Neuenschwander is a 6’4″ left-catching goaltender who brings desirable NHL size and a balanced performance resume across Switzerland’s top junior league, second-tier pro league, and international U20 competition. In 2024/25, Neuenschwander posted consistent numbers at both the U20-Elit level (2.24 GAA, .919 SV%) and in nine appearances at the professional level with EHC Chur in the Sky Swiss League (2.67 GAA, .909 SV%). While his international results with Switzerland’s U20 National Team were less impressive (3.57 GAA, .876 SV%), context is critical, as the Swiss team faced stiffer competition and often allowed high-danger looks defensively.
Neuenschwander’s large frame and controlled movements help him manage traffic and conserve energy. He handles high-danger scenarios well, stopping 84% of Grade “A” chances on average and averaging 1.8 unexpected saves per game, which speaks to his mental focus, poise, and ability to hold the line when defensive breakdowns occur. He’s technically polished for his age, playing a butterfly style with efficient crease movement, and rarely beats himself.
Why Neuenschwander Should Be Drafted
1) Prototypical NHL Frame and Net Coverage
At 6’4″, Neuenschwander possesses the size and reach NHL teams increasingly prioritize. His frame allows him to seal the bottom of the net and challenge shooters without overcommitting, giving him a solid foundational edge in development.
2) Consistent Results in Both Junior and Pro Settings
Posting a plus 0.909 save percentage across both the U20-Elit and Swiss League levels shows that Neuenschwander has adapted well to varying shot quality and pace. His ability to step into professional games and provide reliable play at age 18 is a positive indicator of long-term potential.
3) Strong Under Pressure and in High-Danger Scenarios
With an 84% save rate on Grade “A” chances and 1.8 unexpected saves/game, he tracks well through traffic and reacts calmly and quickly to broken plays. His poise and ability to maintain structure during net-front scrambles are notable strengths.
4) Technically Sound and Efficient Crease Movement
Neuenschwander plays within his posts, maintains strong angles, and uses sharp economical footwork. He doesn’t waste movements or chase plays, giving him an edge in maintaining positioning and rebound control which translates to success at higher levels.
Why Neuenschwander May Not Be Drafted
1) Inconsistent International Track Record
His .876 SV% and 3.57 GAA with Switzerland’s U20 team highlight concerns about how he handles faster, more skilled opponents. While the team in front of him struggled, these numbers raise questions about whether he can track elite puck movement and respond to quick-release shooters.
2) Rebound Control and Secondary Shot Management
While he stops the first shot consistently, Neuenschwander still needs work managing rebounds off his pads and blocker. Second-chance opportunities led to extended zone time and occasional breakdowns.
3) Lack of Elite Lateral Quickness
Neuenschwander relies more on positioning and size than pure explosiveness. Against faster east-west play, his lateral push sometimes lags, especially when reacting to backdoor sequences or royal road passes through the slot.
4) Development Path and Exposure
Playing in Switzerland’s U20 and secondary pro leagues limits his exposure to top-tier North American shooters and development environments. NHL teams may question how his game will translate without seeing more frequent reps against elite competition.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: NHL backup with low-maintenance, structured style; could develop into a 1B with continued refinement
Development Track: 1 season in North American junior hockey, 2 seasons NCAA hockey and then 2-4 seasons a minor league system that stresses patience with young goaltenders. Targeted goaltending development in rebound control and lateral quickness.
Draft Range: 6th–7th Round
Verdict: Neuenschwander is a legitimate late-round draft candidate who checks key boxes for NHL goaltenders—size, poise, consistent baseline performance, and technical structure. While his upside may not be elite and questions remain about his athletic ceiling, his steadiness, mental maturity, and translatable traits make him a low-risk development target for teams seeking long-term goaltending depth with professional experience already underway.