September marks a season of hope for NHL enthusiasts.
This month, supporters eagerly speculate on the potential point totals for their teams and their expected standings. It’s also a time to fantasize about which up-and-coming player might finally harness their full potential. Which top young prospects are under pressure to elevate their game in the 2024-25 season? In this piece, we will spotlight players drafted in the first round who are still under 23 and need to demonstrate their abilities in the NHL this year. The older players in this group (indicating less time for development) and those who were highly anticipated on draft day are more likely to be featured here.
This isn’t intended to be a compilation of “letdowns” — nor would I classify these players as facing make-or-break circumstances — but there are tangible expectations to fulfill. Meeting these expectations doesn’t necessarily mean they need to vault into top-six forward or top-four defenseman roles immediately; rather, it depends on their circumstances and the team’s roster configuration. The goal is to witness genuine advancements in their NHL careers. Each situation is unique — some players may have considerably higher potential than others on this list, while some are two years younger and possess more development time ahead of them.
Drafted No. 4 in 2022
2023-24 stats (AHL): 59 GP, 22G-25A-47P
The development path of Wright has attracted more scrutiny than what is typical for a top-five pick. The 20-year-old right-shot center has faced unique challenges for several reasons. Initially predicted to be the No. 1 selection in 2022, he ultimately fell to No. 4 and has maneuvered between the NHL, AHL, and OHL in his first season post-draft. Last year, he received an exemption allowing him to bypass the CHL-NHL agreement, enabling him to compete in the AHL.
Juraj Slafkovský, Simon Nemec, and Logan Cooley — the three players selected before him — established themselves as significant contributors in the NHL last season. Consequently, attention will shift to Wright, as he aims to emerge as a valuable asset for the Kraken in 2024-25. All indicators suggest that Wright is prepared for this next step.
Wright showcased impressive performance in the AHL, finishing with 22 goals and 47 points across 59 games. While it might be tempting for fans to perceive his progress as slow or as having stagnated, his statistics tell a different story. I examined all top-10 draft picks since 2010 who played in the AHL during their second season after being drafted. The majority of players who posted similar production rates to Wright (0.8 points per game) went on to become very solid NHL players.
Shane Wright AHL production comparisons
|
Player |
Season |
|
|---|---|---|
| Marco Rossi | D+2 | 0.84 |
| Colin Wilson | D+2 | 0.85 |
| Martin Necas | D+2 | 0.81 |
| Sven Baertschi | D+2 | 0.81 |
| Shane Wright | D+2 | 0.8 |
| Nick Ritchie | D+2 | 0.79 |
| William Eklund | D+2 | 0.76 |
| Kevin Fiala | D+2 | 0.76 |
| Timo Meier | D+2 | 0.7 |
| Filip Forsberg | D+2 | 0.72 |
Nine out of the thirteen players on this list eventually established themselves as top-six players in the NHL, including prominent names like Filip Forsberg, Nazem Kadri, Sean Couturier, and Timo Meier. The development of William Eklund—who transitioned from an AHL scoring rate comparable to Shane Wright’s in 2022-23 to a breakout season with 45 points as a rookie in the NHL—is the kind of progress the Kraken hope to witness from Wright this year. Wright was called up at the season’s conclusion, where he scored four goals and provided one assist in five games, giving him confidence as he approaches training camp, knowing he can succeed at the highest level.
Although Wright may not possess a dynamic enough skill set to emerge as a star player, he is an exceptionally well-rounded center with notable top-six potential.
Drafted No. 7 in 2020
2023-24 statistics (NHL): 82 GP, 16G-12A-28P
This summer, the Vegas Golden Knights faced the loss of several top-nine wingers. While Jonathan Marchessault’s exit received the most attention, the departures of Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, and Anthony Mantha have also left significant gaps in the roster. Therefore, Vegas is looking for younger players to step up and fill these valuable lineup spots, which is precisely why the team acquired Holtz from the Devils.
Holtz boasts an impressive shooting release, allowing him to fire the puck with lightning speed before the goalie can react, especially when receiving a high-danger pass. Even on the rush, he can find the corners from mid-range, even when the goalie is positioned properly. Notably,
A player characterized as one-dimensional provides limited contributions outside of his specific skill set. Holtz struggles to drive play, isn’t particularly effective as a playmaker, and has below-average skating abilities, leading to minimal defensive trust in New Jersey as he averaged just 11:38 of ice time per game last season.
However, Vegas might offer a unique environment for him to thrive. With notable centers like Jack Eichel, Tomas Hertl, William Karlsson, and Nicolas Roy, the Golden Knights possess one of the deepest center lineups in the NHL. This means that Holtz will have a reliable two-way, play-driving center to support him, whether he takes the ice on the first line or the fourth. Although he will still need to enhance his game to reach a satisfactory level, he may find a bit more leeway in Vegas.
While it’s doubtful that Holtz will fulfill the expectations of being a No. 7 overall pick, he does have the potential to develop into a valuable middle-six scorer.
Drafted No. 5 in 2021
2023-24 stats (NHL): 42 GP, 6G-10A-16P
Johnson stands out as one of the most talented playmaking prospects seen in recent years. His finesse, vision, puck-handling skills, and creativity are unmatched, reflecting the offensive capabilities of a potential star. Nevertheless, his transition to the professional level has been inconsistent, and the pressure is mounting for him to regain his form.
In his rookie season of 2022-23, Johnson lit up the scoreboard with 40 points in 79 games. However, the Blue Jackets’ forward roster grew more competitive with the arrivals of Adam Fantilli, Dmitri Voronkov, and Alexandre Texier, making it more challenging for the skilled winger to secure a consistent role. Consequently, he found himself briefly assigned to the AHL, where he only managed 16 points in 42 games for Columbus. Notably, his power-play contributions plummeted, dropping from 12 power-play points in 2022-23 to none in the last season.
It’s important to note that player development is rarely linear, and experiencing a sophomore slump is not uncommon, so there’s no immediate cause for concern. This season, Johnson will face reduced competition on the right wing following the Patrik Laine trade and the introduction of a new coach, Dean Evason. With his naturally thin and wiry physique, Johnson needs to demonstrate that he can engage physically, withstand contact, and assert himself against NHL players. Ideally, this summer would have been the perfect time to add some muscle, but he underwent surgery for a torn labrum in early March. Regardless, this season is crucial for Johnson as he aims to re-establish himself as a key contributor within the top nine forwards.
Drafted No. 14 in 2020
2023-24 stats (NHL): 38 GP, 6G-3A-9P
The untapped potential in Holloway is easily noticeable due to his impressive athletic abilities. An above-average skater with a solid, robust frame and an energetic work ethic, Holloway shows promise. Although his playoff statistics (five goals and two assists in 25 games) may not stand out, his performances indicate that he is on the verge of a breakout, showcasing his speed, tenacity, and flashes of skill during games.
WHAT A GOAL BY DYLAN HOLLOWAY“`html
For Holloway to genuinely emerge as a standout player, he must secure a position in the top six. If he manages to establish himself there—competing with Jake Neighbours and Brandon Saad for those coveted minutes—he will be able to play alongside teammates with outstanding skills. Conversely, if he remains confined to the third line, he might find himself centering with Radek Faksa, who possesses limited offensive capabilities.
Holloway has the promise to develop into an energetic middle-six winger, and his fresh start in St. Louis represents an ideal opportunity for him to start fulfilling that potential.
Drafted No. 6 in 2020
2023-24 stats (NHL): 34 GP, 3G-7A-10P
Selected immediately after Jake Sanderson and traded to Philadelphia in exchange for promising prospect Cutter Gauthier, Drysdale will encounter substantial expectations in his inaugural full season with the Flyers. Unfortunately, injuries have hindered the 22-year-old defenseman’s growth—he only played eight games in 2022-23 due to a torn labrum and just 34 games last season. His inconsistent performance last year is difficult to evaluate as he was battling through a sports hernia, which he underwent surgery for in the offseason.
Despite these challenges, Drysdale possesses the talent and skill to succeed as a top-four defenseman. He is an impressive skater, capable of sharp directional changes and rapid acceleration when maneuvering on the ice. An example of his ability is shown when he outmaneuvers Dylan Larkin, a highly skilled forward, to secure a loose puck and facilitate a smooth transition for the Ducks.
Drysdale complements his exceptional skating with composure and high hockey IQ whenever he has the puck. As a rookie at 19 in 2021-22, he played on the top pair alongside Cam Fowler and recorded 32 points over 81 games. Nevertheless, current concerns regarding Drysdale include his inconsistency in defensive play, his smaller stature at 5-foot-11, and the need to refine his puck management skills.
It is hoped that he can enjoy a healthy, productive season to firmly establish himself as a vital part of the Flyers’ future.
Drafted No. 17 in 2020
2023-24 stats (NHL): 65 GP, 5G-11A-16P
Reichel entered last season with considerable expectations, and understandably so. He put together an outstanding AHL season in 2022-23, adding 15 points in 23 games with the Blackhawks. The anticipation was that he would transition into a reliable, full-time top-six player in Chicago, but that didn’t happen; instead, he recorded only 16 points in 65 games and experienced a demotion to the AHL for 10 games. Although he is a strong skater and adept puck-handler, Reichel often found himself along the perimeter, failing to generate offense off the rush and appearing to lose confidence when scoring opportunities dried up early in the season.
As the current season begins, it will be intriguing to see where Reichel fits within the Blackhawks’ lineup. Chicago’s forward group has improved significantly compared to last year, leading to increased competition for middle-six minutes. The advantage of having a stronger, more skilled group is that Reichel will likely have better linemates this season (with MacKenzie Entwistle being his primary five-on-five partner in 2023-24, according“`html
this season. Brisson displays impressive shooting skills, capable of scoring in multiple ways. His shot off the rush is notably deceptive; he can manipulate the angle by pulling and dragging the puck. Additionally, he possesses a hard and precise one-timer. In the offensive zone, Brisson remains calm with the puck and shows exceptional vision for making smart passes, yet he is more recognized as a scorer than a playmaker.With a potent shot and commendable hockey sense, Brisson undoubtedly has the ability to be a significant asset on an NHL power play. The primary concern is whether he can make enough of an impact at even strength to secure a steady role in the middle six, given that his skating still requires improvement and he does not significantly drive play. Another point of concern is that while his performance in the AHL was respectable (38 points in 52 games), it did not reach elite levels for a 22-year-old. Typically, for a top prospect at that age, fans expect point-per-game production.
Like Holtz, Brisson will gain an advantage from the numerous high-end two-way play-driving centers in Vegas. He will not need to shoulder too much responsibility beyond showcasing his offensive skills and finishing touches. He demonstrated his potential for this role as the previous season progressed, registering eight points in 15 games for Vegas. Furthermore, Brisson remains waivers-exempt for another season, and with the addition of Victor Olofsson, a relatively one-dimensional scorer, competition for those desirable complementary scoring positions in the top nine will be intense.
(Photos of Shane Wright and Jamie Drysdale: Steph Chambers and Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images)
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“`html2024-25 NHL Season Preview: High Expectations for Young Stars Ready to Shine
Introduction to the 2024-25 NHL Season
The 2024-25 NHL season is poised to be one of the most exciting yet, with a fresh crop of young talent ready to make their mark. As teams gear up for the competition, the spotlight is on these rising stars who have the potential to redefine their franchises and shake up the league. This article delves into the key players, team strategies, and what fans can expect from this thrilling season.
Key Young Stars to Watch
As teams prepare for the upcoming season, several young players are generating buzz and capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike. Here are some of the standout talents to keep an eye on:
- Connor Bedard (Chicago Blackhawks) – The first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Bedard has already shown flashes of brilliance. Expect him to lead the Blackhawks’ offense right out of the gate.
- Mason McTavish (Anaheim Ducks) – McTavish is coming off a strong rookie season and is expected to take on a larger role, potentially becoming a key figure in the Ducks’ lineup.
- Matty Beniers (Seattle Kraken) – After a stellar rookie year, Beniers is set to elevate his game, contributing significantly to the Kraken’s playoff aspirations.
- Owen Power (Buffalo Sabres) – As a standout defenseman, Power is not only crucial on the blue line but also adds offensive depth, making him a player to watch this season.
Team Outlooks: Rising Contenders
This season features several teams that are betting on their young stars to lead them into contention. Here’s a closer look at some of these teams:
Chicago Blackhawks
With the addition of Connor Bedard, the Blackhawks are looking to bounce back after years of rebuilding. His playmaking ability and scoring touch will be pivotal in revitalizing the franchise.
Seattle Kraken
The Kraken are poised for growth, thanks to players like Matty Beniers. With a balanced roster and strong defensive play, they are aiming for a deeper playoff run this season.
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are banking on the continued development of Mason McTavish and his offensive skills. Alongside other young talents, they are expected to challenge for a playoff spot.
Potential Breakout Players
The 2024-25 season could see several players take the leap into stardom. Here are a few candidates for breakout performances:
- Brock Faber (Minnesota Wild) – This young defenseman has the potential to emerge as a top-pairing player and contribute offensively.
- Alex Newhook (Colorado Avalanche) - After a year of adjustment, Newhook is ready to step up and show why he was highly sought after in the draft.
- Philip Tomasino (Nashville Predators) – With increased ice time, Tomasino could become a significant offensive threat for the Predators.
Strategies for Success
For young stars to succeed, teams must implement strategies that maximize their potential. Here are some practical tips for coaching staff and management:
1. Empower Young Players
Coaches should allow young players to take risks and learn from their experiences. Providing them with ample ice time in critical situations can build confidence and skill.
2. Foster Team Chemistry
Building rapport between young stars and veteran players is essential. Create opportunities for mentorship and collaboration in practice and games.
3. Emphasize Skill Development
Investing in skill development programs during the offseason can help young players refine their abilities. Focus on areas like shooting, skating, and defensive positioning.
Season Predictions and Expectations
As teams prepare for the new season, many analysts are making predictions about which young stars will shine the brightest. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:
Player Team Projected Points Key Skills Connor Bedard Chicago Blackhawks 75 Playmaking, Scoring Mason McTavish Anaheim Ducks 65 Offensive Awareness, Vision Matty Beniers Seattle Kraken 70 Skating, Two-Way Play Owen Power Buffalo Sabres 50 Defense, Offensive Contributions Case Studies: Previous Rookie Success Stories
Learning from past rookie success stories can provide insight into what to expect this season. Here are a few notable examples:
Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Matthews burst onto the scene with 40 goals in his rookie season (2016-17), showcasing the impact a young star can have on team performance.
Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers)
McDavid’s immediate impact in the league demonstrated how a young player can elevate a franchise’s prospects, leading the Oilers to multiple playoff appearances.
Fan Engagement: What to Expect This Season
The 2024-25 NHL season promises to be exciting not just for players but also for fans. Here’s how fans can engage with the action:
- Increased Streaming Options: Fans can follow their favorite young stars through various streaming platforms that offer live games and highlights.
- Social Media Updates: Teams are actively using social media to connect with fans, providing behind-the-scenes content and player interactions.
- Fan Events: Many teams are hosting fan engagement events, such as meet-and-greets with players, enhancing the overall experience.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 NHL season is shaping up to be a landmark year for young talents. With high expectations and significant opportunities, these players are ready to shine on the grand stage of professional hockey. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the game, this season promises thrilling moments and unforgettable performances.
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