William Schneid (RW, R, 6’0″, 195, Northwood School, 05/10/2007, Connecticut)
William Schneid is a highly productive right-shot winger who posted 67 goals and 121 points in 76 games for Northwood Prep. While the level of competition must be taken into account, his production and usage indicate a high-end offensive weapon at the prep level. Schneid is a fluid skater with an above average shooting arsenal, combining accuracy, release, and deception. He reads the offensive zone well, thrives off puck touches, and has shown an ability to create off the rush or below the dots. His game centers around scoring, but he’s also shown flashes of playmaking and responsibility on the penalty kill.
Statistical Profile – 2024/25 Season (Prep)
76 GP | 67 G | 54 A | 121 PTS
TOI: 20:43 | PPT: 2:50 | SHT: 1:59
PIA/PID: 10:00 / 8:04
Hits (H+/H-): 0.35 / 3.2
Shots (S/S+/SBL/S-): 10 / 5.9 / 2.2 / 1.9
SC/SC%: 4 / 8%
Puck Battles (C/C%): 16 / 44%
Passing (P%/PSP): 93% / 1.0
TA/GA: 4 / 3
BL: 0.4
Reasons to Draft
Elite-Level Production and Offensive IQ
Schneid’s 67-goal, 121-point season is dominant by prep standards and reflects his ability to score in different ways. He finds soft ice, changes angles quickly with the puck, and has a natural scorer’s touch. His 93% pass completion rate and 1.0 pre-shot pass per game also show that he is not a one-dimensional shooter.
Efficient, Stride-Based Skating
He possesses a smooth, balanced stride with above-average pace, helping him generate separation off the rush and reposition quickly inside the offensive zone. While not explosive, he plays at a pace that forces defenders to respect his drive lanes.
Power Play Impact and Minutes
He was heavily relied upon at Northwood, regularly logging over 20 minutes per game with primary usage on both special teams. His 2.5 minutes of power play time per game and consistent grade ‘A’ scoring chance generation point to a player who drives offense.
Strong Decision-Making in Possession
Schneid’s play in tight and through layers is intelligent. He uses his body to protect pucks and makes smart plays under pressure. With the puck, he remains composed, rarely forcing low-percentage shots or passes. His 93% passing success and disciplined shot selection reflect strong puck management.
Reasons Not to Draft
Low Battle Win Percentage
Despite decent size, Schneid won just 44% of his puck battles—well below what’s expected for NHL prospects at the prep level. He often relies on positioning and stick play rather than engaging physically, and that lack of physicality will be exposed as he climbs into professional hockey.
No Scoring Efficiency on Grade ‘A’ Chances
While he generated an impressive 4 scoring chances per game, his SC% was listed as 8%. That percentage raises questions about his ability to convert high-danger looks when defenders close quicker and goalies are stronger at higher levels.
Limited Physical Impact
He averaged fewer than half a hit per game and absorbed over three per outing. Schneid plays a light game physically, and while it hasn’t hindered his prep success, he’s not currently equipped to win space or sustain possession through contact against junior-level, NCAA and eventually professional defenders.
Context of Competition
Prep hockey is not a direct predictor of NHL success. While Schneid excelled within the environment, it’s unclear how his game will translate when time and space are removed. The jump in pace, structure, and physicality is substantial from prep to Tier I junior or NCAA levels.
Projection & Draft Recommendation
Projection: Bottom-six winger with penalty kill upside
Development Path: Two years in the USHL/CHL, three seasons NCAA followed by multiple seasons in the AHL
Draft Range: 7th Round consideration
Verdict:
William Schneid’s production, skating mechanics, and offensive zone reads are Pro-caliber assets, but his low battle win rate and light physical engagement suggest a longer development timeline. He’ll need to prove himself at a higher level before earning serious pro consideration. He’s a draftable late-round prospect for clubs willing to invest time in a skilled, goal-oriented winger who may blossom with added strength and a more aggressive approach.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images