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. Ryan Leonard, RW
Ryan Leonard (C, R, 6’0″, 190, NTDP U18, 01/21/2005, Boston College)
Strengths: Leonard is an elite competitor with a high motor and a powerful, accurate shot. He’s physically mature for his age, allowing him to win puck battles and play a direct, aggressive style. His leadership qualities and ability to perform in key moments stand out, as does his willingness to play in all situations, including on the penalty kill and power play. Improvements: Leonard needs to refine his decision-making with the puck, particularly under pressure. He can be prone to forcing plays or taking low-percentage shots when better options are available. His playmaking can also develop further, as he tends to prioritize shooting over distributing the puck.
2. Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW
Ivan Miroshnichenko (LW, R, 6’1″, 194, Omskie Yastreby, 02/04/2004)
Strengths: Miroshnichenko possesses an elite scoring touch, with a powerful, quick release and the ability to find soft areas in the defense to get his shot off. His offensive creativity and ability to generate scoring chances from nothing make him a key asset on the power play. He has also made strides in utilizing his frame to protect the puck and win battles along the boards. Improvements: His defensive commitment and positioning away from the puck need to improve. At times, he can be overly focused on offense, leaving gaps in his backchecking and puck support. Increasing his physicality and consistency in all three zones will help him earn a more substantial role in the NHL.
3. Terik Parascak, RW
Terik Parascak (RW, R, 6’0″, 176, Prince George Cougars, 05/28/2006)
Strengths: Parascak is a dynamic offensive talent with excellent speed and puck-handling ability. His quick feet allow him to create space and beat defenders one-on-one, while his vision makes him a dangerous playmaker. His high hockey IQ ensures he’s always in the right place to capitalize on scoring opportunities, making him a versatile top-six forward option. Improvements: Parascak needs to continue adding strength to his frame to withstand the physicality of pro hockey. He can be pushed off the puck too easily in board battles, which limits his effectiveness against bigger, stronger defenders. His defensive game, particularly in terms of supporting the play down low, also requires refinement.
4. Ryan Chesley, RD
Ryan Chesley (D, R, 6’0″, 194, NTDP U18, 02/27/2004, Minnesota)
Strengths: Chesley is a mobile, two-way defenseman who excels in transition. His skating and puck-moving ability allow him to lead breakouts and jump into the play offensively. Defensively, he uses his agility and stick positioning to close gaps effectively, while his hockey sense helps him anticipate plays and disrupt passing lanes. Improvements: Chesley can further develop his offensive confidence, especially in terms of shooting from the point and quarterbacking the power play. He also needs to add more strength to handle net-front battles and improve his overall physical presence in the defensive zone.
5. Andrew Cristall, RW
Andrew Cristall (LW, L, 5’10”, 175, Kelowna Rockets, 02/04/2005)
Strengths: Cristall is a creative playmaker with elite hands and vision. His ability to make plays in tight spaces and control the puck under pressure is impressive, and he has a knack for setting up his teammates in scoring positions. He’s especially dangerous on the power play, where his quick decisions and soft touch shine. Improvements: Cristall’s skating remains an area of concern. While he’s agile in small spaces, his overall speed and acceleration need to improve for him to be more effective in transition and on the rush. His play without the puck, especially in terms of defensive positioning, is another area that requires attention.
6. Cole Hutson, LD
Cole Hutson (D, L, 5’10”, 165, NTDP U18, 06/28/2006, Boston University)
Strengths: Hutson is a high-end puck mover with exceptional offensive instincts. His ability to control the pace of play from the back end and create offensive opportunities through his vision and passing make him a potential top-pairing defenseman. His skating is fluid, allowing him to evade forecheckers and jump into the rush effectively. Improvements: He needs to bulk up to handle the rigors of NHL play, particularly in physical battles along the boards and in front of the net. Defensively, he can be over-reliant on his skating and positioning, which works at lower levels but will need to be complemented by a more physical edge in the pros.
7. Vincent Iorio, RD
Vinnie Iorio (D, L, 6’3″, 203, Brandon Wheat Kings, 11/14/2002)
Strengths: Iorio is a reliable, poised defender with a strong defensive game. He excels at reading the play, breaking up zone entries, and using his size to keep opponents to the outside. His first pass out of the zone is crisp and accurate, making him a valuable asset in transition. He’s also shown leadership qualities and consistency in his play. Improvements: Iorio can be more assertive offensively, as he tends to play it safe rather than pushing the pace or jumping into the rush. Developing a stronger shot from the point and being more aggressive in the offensive zone will make him a more complete defenseman.
8. Leon Muggli, LD
Leon Muggli (D, L, 6’0″, 165, EV Zug, 07/09/2006)
Strengths: Muggli is a stay-at-home defenseman with excellent positioning and gap control. His ability to read plays and maintain strong defensive positioning makes him difficult to beat one-on-one. He’s also shown maturity in his decision-making, rarely putting himself or his team in vulnerable situations. Improvements: Muggli needs to improve his offensive contributions. While he’s reliable in his own zone, his lack of offensive creativity limits his overall impact on the game. Working on his puck-moving ability and contributing more in transition will be crucial as he moves forward.
9. Bogdan Trineyev, RW
Bogdan Trineyev (F, R, 6’3″, 176, Dynamo U15, 03/04/2002)
Strengths: Trineyev is a physical, grinding winger who plays with an edge. His size and strength allow him to excel in puck battles and along the boards, while his ability to create havoc in front of the net makes him a valuable asset on the power play. He’s shown growth in his offensive game, particularly in finishing plays in tight. Improvements: Skating remains the biggest area of concern for Trineyev. He needs to improve his footspeed and agility to keep up with the faster pace of the NHL. Additionally, his overall puck-handling skills could use refinement, as he tends to rely on his physicality rather than finesse when controlling the puck.
10. Clay Stevenson, G
Clay Stevenson (G, L, 6’4″, 175, Coquitlam Express, 03/03/1999, Dartmouth)
Strengths: Stevenson is a composed, technically sound goaltender with excellent positioning and rebound control. His lateral movement is strong, allowing him to track pucks and stay square to shooters. He’s shown the ability to remain calm under pressure and make key saves in high-danger situations. Improvements: Stevenson needs to work on his puck-handling skills, particularly in playing the puck behind the net to help his defensemen. His consistency over long stretches of games is another area for improvement, as he’s had stretches where his play dips slightly. Focus on maintaining energy and mental sharpness over extended periods will be key for his development.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images