Cole Reschny (C, L, 5’11”, 183, Victoria Royals, 04/04/2007)
Cole Reschny is a high-IQ, two-way center who makes an impact in all facets of the game. His ability to process plays quickly and influence the game through subtle yet impactful decisions makes him a standout among his peers. Reschny combines excellent puck skills, positional awareness, and competitive drive with a well-rounded 200′ game. While he lacks the size and explosiveness of some top prospects, his consistency and ability to elevate those around him position him as a potential top-15 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Strengths:
Hockey IQ and Game Processing:
Reschny demonstrates exceptional awareness in all three zones, consistently making intelligent decisions both with and without the puck.
His off-puck movement is purposeful and effective, allowing him to find open space or create open lanes his teammates.
His ability to anticipate plays defensively leads to frequent takeaways (5 per game) and disruption of opposing breakouts.
Playmaking and Passing Ability:
A creative and smooth passer, Reschny consistently sets up his linemates for Grade “A” scoring opportunities (1.84 per game).
His 88% passing accuracy reflects his ability to move the puck efficiently in all three zones.
His vision and deception with the puck force defenders to overcommit, opening lanes for clean passes and scoring opportunities.
Offensive Instincts and Scoring Touch:
Reschny generates 3.5 grade “A” scoring chances and 1.14 inner slot shots per game, showcasing his fearlessness when attacking high danger scoring areas.
His quick, hard release is deceptive and pops off his stick with accuracy when given time and space.
Despite being primarily a distributor, he tallied seven points (three goals, four assists) in five games at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, demonstrating his ability to finish plays.
Puck Control and Handling:
Reschny’s quick hands and soft first touch allow him to settle rolling pucks and maintain possession through contact and when playing at pace.
He uses his edges effectively to create space and evade defenders, particularly in tight areas.
His deception and puck poise keep defenders guessing, creating mismatches in transition, on line-rushes and offensive-zone play.
Defensive Play and Face-Off Ability:
A responsible defender, Reschny communicates well with his defensemen well, stays on the defensive side of the puck during battles, and uses his quick stick to steal pucks and initiate counterattacks.
His 56% face-off win rate at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup underscores his reliability in critical situations.
He exhibits consistent effort on the backcheck, often breaking up plays with his hustle and positional soundness.
Competitiveness and Work Ethic:
Reschny’s effort level is noticeable shift-to-shift; he battles hard for pucks (winning 52% of his 50/50 battles) and consistently pressures opponents into mistakes.
His willingness to absorb contact and keep his feet moving through traffic highlights his determination to make plays.
Areas for Improvement:
Skating Explosiveness and Top-End Speed:
While Reschny’s first step and lateral agility are solid, his overall skating lacks the explosiveness and straight-line speed to consistently create separation at the NHL level.
Improving his lower-body strength and stride mechanics will be crucial for translating his game to a faster-paced National League environment.
Physicality and Durability:
At 5’11” and 185 lbs, Reschny is solidly built but takes a high volume of hits (1.0 per game). While we love his willingness to take a hit to make a play, adding strength and becoming more adept at avoiding heavy contact will be essential for long-term success.
Shot Creation and Volume:
Reschny averages 5.5 shot attempts per game, with 1.14 being blocked—a high number for a player of his skill. Expanding and improving his one-timer and learning to manipulate defenders more effectively will increase his scoring efficiency.
Turnover Management:
His 5 giveaways per game highlight occasional lapses in decision-making when trying to force plays or hold onto the puck too long. Refining his ability to balance creativity with simplicity is important for him to play in a top-6 role in the NHL.
Physical Engagement:
Reschny’s 0.38 hits per game tells us he is more likely to use his feet to contain while defending, rather than hit and pin. Adding more strength and power will round out his two-way game and enhance his NHL projection.
Hlinka-Gretzky Cup:
Seven points in five games, including standout performances against the US and Switzerland.
Demonstrated leadership, high hockey IQ, and versatility in all three zones while excelling on special teams.
Won 61% of face-offs and consistently impacted the game with his anticipation and positioning.
2024/25 WHL Season:
Averaging over 21 minutes per game and contributing key minutes in all situations.
Generates 3.5 grade “A” scoring chances per game and averages 2.3 loose puck recoveries after shots, highlighting his instincts and puck pursuit.
Projection
Cole Reschny projects as a versatile, high-end middle-six forward at the NHL level, with the potential to play in a top-six role depending on his physical and skating development. His intelligence, puck skills, and two-way reliability make him a valuable asset, especially in match-up roles or situations requiring strong special teams play. If he continues to improve his skating and adds strength to his frame, he could become a consistent top-6 forward who plays center or wing.
Draft Outlook: Mid-to-late first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Player Comparison: Bo Horvat — A smart, reliable two-way center who can drive play, contribute offensively, and excel in all situations.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images