2023 NHL Draft Rankings: Gabriel Foley’s Final Top 100

Click here to jump straight to the table of my final 2023 NHL Draft rankings!

With an achy heart, I welcome you to my final ranking of the 2023 NHL Draft class. This year has flown by and I am simply not ready to give up this class. It’s tremendously strong, featuring potential franchise cornerstones, flanked by sure-fire depth pieces. It’s been an incredibly fun year and one that’s really challenged my scouting ability. But before we dive into my Top 100 names in the class, let’s lay some ground rules:

1. First and foremost, these rankings are not indicative of where I think these players will actually land come draft day. These are my rankings of where I think each player deserves to go, based on current talent and future potential.
2. Each player will have a brief scouting report attached to them. If you’d like to know more in-depth thoughts about any player in the class, I encourage you to reach out to me on Twitter (@NHLFoley)!
3. Each First Round player will have at least one, and up to three, comparable NHL players listed below them, to help give a better sense of how they play. These comparisons are based solely on player style and, while the three NHL players may be different, the prospect will share traces of each of them.

Alright, now that we’re all prepped, let’s dive into my Top 100 2023 NHL Draft Rankings!

1. Connor Bedard (C/RW)

Not much to say. Bedard is near-perfect in all technical areas – skating, shooting, stickhandling – and he uses it to dominate everywhere he goes. A smart player on and off the ice. Projects as more of a goal-scorer than an assist-man but will be a generational talent through-and-through.

Comparable Player(s): Sidney Crosby

2. Adam Fantilli (C/RW)

Thee modern-day power-forward, Fantilli carries strength in his chest, making him impossible to knock off the puck. He combines it with powerful skating and heads-up playmaking. Fantilli’s skillset let’s him do it all at some points, although he certainly benefits from working through his teammates. There are some questions about rash decision making under pressure but this is largely due to being so young.

Comparable Player(s): Rick Nash, Logan Couture

3. Matvei Michkov (RW)

A player that is breaking the way scouts currently think. While Michkov’s talent doesn’t line up with the current sense of a “franchise” talent, he’s found a way to be incredible everywhere he’s played. Where there’s too much skepticism, there may be denail. Michkov has been legit everywhere else, I trust that’ll only continue. Maybe a boom-or-bust prospect but one with cornerstone talent.

Comparable Player(s): Pavel Datsyuk, Nikita Kucherov

4. Zach Benson (F)

A do-it-all dynamo who uses incredibly fast, agile skating to relentlessly forecheck, make plays in-tight, and work his way to the net. Finds a way to make an impact in all three zones and not scared of anything, despite being slightly undersized. Where there’s a will, there’s a way and Benson’s tenacious work ethic has me thinking he’ll force his way to high acclaim at the pro level.

Comparable Player(s): Jordan Kyrou, Matt Boldy

5. Will Smith (C)

A highly-intelligent playmaker capable of manipulating the tempo and speed of play with extreme efficiency. When Smith is on the ice, he’s commanding everything. I’d like to see more impact in the defensive zone and think he could afford a little more physicality. But those points are moot when he’s able to command possession as well as he is.

Comparable Player(s): Mika Zibanajed, Sebastian Aho, Jonathan Toews

6. Leo Carlsson (C)

Carlsson is a hefty, slower-moving center who has grown a lot in his ability to keep up with high-pace play. This is largely on the back of improved puck-handling, with Carlsson looking much stronger at manipulating the puck into space. A reliable two-way player who can be trusted in a lot of different roles.

Comparable Player(s): Jason Spezza, David Krejci, Adam Henrique

7. Colby Barlow (LW)

Another sturdily built prospect who looks far beyond the development of a typical 18-year-old. If this exponential development continues, he could become a cornerstone talent. But even if it doesn’t, Barlow’s ability to play slow, physical hockey gives him an incredibly high floor. Could step into the NHL next year… in fact, he probably should.

Comparable Player(s): William Nylander, Tom Wilson, Mason McTavish

8. David Reinbacher (RHD)

Reinbacher is a poised, methodical defenseman that knows how to start play from his own end. Very calm on the breakout. Nothing about his play – both his tools and his style – are overly quick but with his ability to control the puck and command play with smart passes, he doesn’t need to be quick. Has thrived in the National League – a league that has recently produced strong NHL defensemen. He may be the best of the lot.

Comparable Player(s): Mortiz Seider, Josh Morrissey, Ivan Provorov

9. Nate Danielson (C)

Danielson is as well-rounded as they come. He completely controls the middle lane of the ice and is always perfectly in position, making it hard for opponents to beat him on offense or stop him on defense. An incredibly aware center that finds ways to create space for his wingers, effectively lifting up his entire line. Danielson beautifully managed every ounce of responsibility that there was in Brandon; a good sign for those wondering how he’ll translate.

Comparable Player(s): Nico Hischier, Phillip Danault

10. Ryan Leonard (RW)

Ryan Leonard has added a layer of physicality to his game that has completely revolutionized how he plays. Where he was once a shoot-first sniper, Leonard’s added strength turns him into much more of a power forward, capable of barreling through opponents and creating havoc in the offensive zone. All the while, his shot is still incredibly lethal. There is major upside here, if his feet can keep up with the speed of pro hockey.

Comparable Player(s): Timo Meier, Viktor Arvidsson, Drake Batherson

11. Axel Sandin-Pellikka (RHD)

Axel Sandin-Pellikka is a transition-quarterback that excels at carrying the puck out of the defensive end and taking advantage of plays as they form. He blends beautifully with his linemates and has the confidence to drive the puck into the zone when options aren’t available. A great model for other defenseman looking to improve their puck-carrying.

Comparable Player(s): Damon Severson, Jay Bouwmeester, Alex Pietrangelo

12. Brayden Yager (C)

A very fluid center that loves the puck on his stick. Yager has the finesse to beat defenders clean and dominate play. But shortcomings in processing speed, decision making, and ability to gel with teammates has some concerned with his translatability. At the beginning of the year, Yager was looking like yet another prospect on his way to great things. But after a year that didn’t feature major strides in development, he’s a little more of a question mark. Call me cautiously optimistic: Yager is boom-or-bust and I’ll err on ‘boom’.

Comparable Player(s): Mathew Barzal, Elias Lindholm

13. Matthew Wood (RW/LW)

A sudden growth spurt has made hockey a lot more challenging for Matthew Wood, a nifty puck-handler who has flashes of great skating ability… interlaced with terrible skating showings. He knows where he needs to be on each play but struggles to get there quickly thanks to a lack of explosion in his step. His skating absolutely needs improvement but knowing he’s only had a limited time in this frame, I’m cautiously optimistic that he will learn. If he doesn’t, this pick may end up looking a little dim.

Comparable Player(s): Jason Robertson, Nikolaj Ehlers, Mikko Rantanen

14. Dalibor Dvorský (C/RW)

A bit of a slow-paced, but overall reliable, two-way winger that excels when play slows down. Dvorský struggles to control pace of play – not one for blazing by opposing defenseman – but excellent puck skills let him fight his way up the ice. He’s a heads-up passer and great off-puck mover, helping him always be involved. Great on the D-side of things too, although I’d like to see more confident physicality. A player that NHL teams are very bullish on.

Comparable Player(s): Sean Monahan, Kirby Dach

15. Quentin Musty (LW/C)

Instead of focusing on becoming speedier like I had hoped, Quentin Musty has leaned into finding ways to power his way down the ice. A confident, strong forward who has great stickhandling to escape any situation he can’t get out of physically. I’d like to see quicker processing and decision making but when he adds those pieces, Musty will be a powerful addition.

Comparable Player(s): Tom Wilson, Anders Lee, Prospect: Zachary L’Heureux (NSH)

16. Oliver Moore (C)

A cartoonish sugar-rush of a player, Oliver Moore’s jets are only outclassed by his endurance. This lets Moore be incredibly persistent on the forecheck. The quick play translates to his hands and processing, with Moore capable of making key passes or releasing fast shots with little-to-no time. He can quarterback transition and is positionally-sound in the defensive end, making him an option for the PK. I would like to see added muscle to round out what isn’t necessarily the sturdiest frame right now.

Comparable Player(s): Kevin Fiala, Peyton Krebs, Jesper Bratt

17. Gabe Perreault (LW/RW)

Perreault started the year primarily as a forechecker, using his fundamental speed and fearless tenacity to battle in the corners or along the boards and win possession for his team. But as the year has developed, he’s found a newfound confidence in independently taking advantage of chances his play-driving creates. Perreault’s ability to stickhandle in tight and fight his way to the net

Comparable Player(s): Brendan Gallagher, Jake Guentzel

18. Eduard Šalé (LW/RW)

Sale is maybe the most frustrating prospect in this draft class. He is physically mature and phenomenally drives play… when he wants to. But in league play, or even in a few instances internationally, Sale has faded into the background, failing to involve himself in play in much of any way. He has an incredible amount of potential but inconsistency in his engagement makes it hard to get too excited about what he could be.

Comparable Player(s): Mark Scheifele

19. Gavin Brindley (RW/C)

Gavin Brindley has continued to find ways to be the one of the most reliable players on his team. A year after helping propel Tri-City to a stellar regular season finish, Brindley stepped into Michigan ready to make an impact in any way he could. He’s a very fast forward whose great skating posture lets him get the most out of every stride. This makes Brindley a relentless forechecker,

Comparable Player(s): Jaden Schwartz

20. Andrew Cristall (LW)

Andrew Cristall is one of the best puck-handlers in this class, showing off an incredible ability to gain possession in the defensive end and find ways to drive it down the ice and create high-danger scoring chances. He works with his teammates beautifully but doesn’t necessarily need them, thanks to how strong his other tools are. But slow foot speed and inconsistent decision making keep me lower on Cristall. He’ll need to upgrade to handle the pros with as much ease as he’s handled juniors.

Comparable Player(s): Claude Giroux, Johnny Gaudreau, Mats Zuccarello

21. Tanner Molendyk (LHD)

Tanner Molendyk’s ability to join the rush has been incredible to watch all season long. He’s a shifty defenseman who uses a strong, active stick to shut down opponents and quick crossovers to turn up ice before opponents can catch on to what’s happening. It’s a really attractive style, but one that hasn’t led to the scoring that some may expect. To this end, Molendyk will need to improve on his vision when attacking down the boards and his decision making when plays shut down. But a nice ability to close off play and move up the ice with tempo earns him a high spot on my board.

Comparable Player(s): Devon Toews, Vince Dunn, Gustav Forsling

22. Jacob Fowler (G)

Jacob Fowler took the USHL by storm this year, leading the league in save percentage, goals against average, and wins and taking home the league’s ‘Goalie of the Year’ award as a result. Fowler is a very poised goaltender that doesn’t stray from his crease. He’s incredibly quick and poised in his movements, allowing him to find angles quickly and maintain really strong positioning. And to boot, Fowler is undeniably the best puck-handler of the goalies in this class. His glove side is notoriously weak, and will need some solid patching if he wants to step cleanly into the pro scene. But Fowler’s incredible consistency and calm style make him a strong candidate to be the first goalie off of the board this year, and my personal choice.

Comparable Player(s): Linus Ullmark, Jordan Binnington

23. Tom Willander (RHD)

Tom Willander knows how to create plays that stretch all 200 feet of the ice. He’s smooth on the breakout and uses confident puck-handling and strong passing to quarterback play. Willander is also a stellar point-man, showing off his ability to walk the line and wait for opportunity to present itself. It feels like his play fits all of the boxes, albeit just a little immature. If development goes ideally, he’ll grow into a very reliable puck-mover on a pro blue-line.

Comparable Player(s): Alec Martinez, Colin Miller, Brandon Montour

24. Dmitri Simashev (LHD)

I’ve finally come around on Dmitri Simashev, who is increidibly deserving of the adore that he’s receiving. Simashev’s puck-handling and skating abilities are surprisingly strong given his frame and his ability to play physical. Those traits help him force his way up the ice when the puck is on his stick. He has all of the tools of a Top 10 defenseman but some immature decision making keeps him lower on my list. As Simashev grows, learning how to stay more poised defensively, work into the offensive zone better, and playing through his teammates will all be big steps.

Comparable Player(s): K’Andre Miller, Nick Leddy, Alex Goligoski

25. Maxim Štrbák (RHD)

Many have fallen bearish on Maxim Štrbák. And seeing his near lack of any offensive responsibilities helps explain why that may be. But I can’t kick my admiration for how well Štrbák handles the defensive aspects of the game. He’s heavy-hitting and uses his reach very well, both in defending the rush and in corner battles. When he gains possession, Štrbák uses hard passes to funnel the puck to his forwards quickly, alleviating himself of forward responsibility. He’s a sturdy, reliable blue-liner that feels very projectable, even if his ceiling may not be high.

Comparable Player(s): Nicolas Hague, Brendan Dillon

26. Noah Dower Nilsson (C)

Noah Dower Nilsson forced his way up Sweden’s leaderboards with hard-nosed, determined scoring all season long. Dower Nilsson is solid in his skates and defends the puck very well, letting him force his way through opposing defensemen with relative ease. Much of his attacking comes in the middle lane of the ice, his skating fundamentals could be notably improved, and he could afford to use his teammates more. But the more I watch him, the more I’m drawn towards his tenacious ability to force his way into the danger areas of the ice and consistently finish when given the chance. Dower Nilsson will be a project but one that could return a really nice, middle-six lineup piece.

Comparable Player(s): Evan Rodrigues, Prospect: Alexander Suzdalev (WSH)

27. Daniil But (RW/LW)

Daniil But is an absolute unicorn. His skating is incredibly fluid for a player his size and he uses that to dominate puck possession. But loves having the puck on his stick and does phenomenal at dictating play, using very aware decision-making to push his team up the ice and into critical situations. And his finish is the icing on the cake.

I have never seen a prospect like But – not even Tage Thompson (in fact, I don’t find them too similar at all) – and that is an inherent risk in-and-of-itself. If a team can develop him right, they could be getting a very interesting player.

Comparable Player(s): Arthur Kaliyev, Anthony Mantha, Alexey Toropchenko, Prospect: Egor Afanasyev (NSH)

28. Ethan Gauthier (C)

Ethan Gauthier is another player in this class that leaves me wanting more. He’s a heavy-frame winger that knows how to effectively throw the body, handles the puck with tremendous ease, and has a killer shot. And yet, rash decision making and a lack of desire to play quickly really holds him back. Despite having tremendous ability, Gauthier fades into the background more often than I’d like. If an NHL team can light a new fire in him, he could turn out to be an incredibly solid lineup piece. But he will be a project.

Comparable Player(s): Pavel Zacha, Dylan Strome

29. Bradly Nadeau (C/LW)

Bradly Nadeau is a very strong offensive piece, with proficiency in breaking through the neutral zone with pace and poise. When he’s in the offensive end, Nadeau’s shot is undeniably his defining trait. While a strong passer that can work well out of the corners or off of the boards, Nadeau’s most dangerous in the high slot, where he excels at creating space and picking corners. While he may have the most questionable translatability out of this first round, his strong puck-handling, shot, and drive to always be involved in play make him exciting.

Comparable Player(s): Jake DeBrusk, Jordan Eberle

30. Samuel Honzek (C)

To say that Samuel Honzek tends to serve as a safety net would be deceiving – he’s far more dynamic than that would give him credit for. But, in a sense, that’s what he is. The big-bodied forward knows how to stay calm, cool, and collected at all times. He has a heavy frame and quick strides, letting him burst into action when he needs to patch any gaps in his team’s setups to keep play alive. What’s interesting is that, despite this responsible and calm style, Honzek also possesses really dangerous scoring traits, including a nice shot and strong ability to win puck battles in the low slot. If he can bring those out more, he could develop into a really unique and productive middle-six center. But even without it, his poise and awareness make him an excellent shutdown center.

Comparable Player(s): Patrik Berglund, Jamie Benn, Sam Bennett

31. Anton Wahlberg (C)

Despite his size, Wahlberg is deceptively quick and uses it to always get involved. No matter if he should or shouldn’t be, you can trust that Wahlberg will be in the center of the play. He’s strong, agile, and has an admirable amount of grit, letting him battle through anything that might come up. With heads-up passing and a quick-release shot to boot, Wahlberg really feels like a First Round-lock. His main areas of growth will come with learning new systems and finding ways to hold to his position better. If a team can kill the wanderer in Wahlberg, they’ll be getting an incredibly reliable, all-situations, middle-six center.

Comparable Player(s): Roope Hintz, Jordan Staal, Prospect: Filip Bystedt (SJS)

32. Lukas Dragicevic (RHD)

When it comes to hockey skills, Dragicevic is one of the most talented in the class regardless of position. But he throws caution to the wind in terms of positioning, in a way that creates more issues than it solves more often than not. An NHL team will have their work cut out for them in taking Dragicevic but he could be one of the highest payoffs in the class.

This is a rare time where I fully support the “make them a forward!” argument…

Comparable Player(s): Tony DeAngelo, Evan Bouchard, Morgan Rielly

— End of First Round —

On to the Rest

Alright, let’s take a quick break. Thank you so much for going through my Top 32! For the remaining 68 names on this list, I will simply list their rank, name, and position, followed by a brief report on their play. If you are interested in team, league, nation, and size information, please scroll to the bottom where you will find a chart of my entire rankings!

33. Calum Ritchie (C/RW)

Despite having the acclaim of the fans, Ritchie lost the 1C spot at U18s, speaking to the concerns I’ve had for a while: he’s not a takeover kind of player. Instead, Ritchie is a calm, reliable, two-way center who can be leaned on on special teams, but one that won’t tilt the needle for his pro tema. That’s great value! But value that I’d take outside of the first round.

34. Hunter Brzustewicz (RHD)

A puck-phillic defenseman who loves driving play through the middle lane. He’s a bit unique in the risks he chooses to take – and better assessing his choices will be a major area of improvement – but the talent and offensive bite are exciting.

35. William Whitelaw (C/RW/LW)

Will Whitelaw is one of the stronger skill-players in the class, possessing a really strong shot, a nifty ability to play in space, and a nose for the net. But there’s reason to wonder how he’ll mature his game to maintain his scoring in pro hockey. Also major reason to ask where he’ll play next season, after Tony Granato’s unceremonious departure from the Univ. of Wisconsin.

36. Michael Hrabal (G)

A fast and aggressive goalie whose big frame insures his speed. He is incredibly reminiscent of Ben Bishop, both in strengths, weaknesses, and a potential path to the starter’s net. Certainly worth a high swing.

37. Albert Wikman (LHD)

With the end of Alexander Edler’s career comes the beginning of Albert Wikman’s. Wikman is a similarly lanky, smooth-moving defenseman who’s made his size a main fixture of his play. He feels like he could translate very well, even if his ceiling may be a bit lower.

38. Charlie Stramel (C/RW)

Despite looking like a great, skilled power-forward at the beginning of the year, Stramel has instead developed into a ‘David Backes’ style of big-man role. That means a lot of work in front of the net and in the corners. I’d like him to find a balance between ‘skilled puck-carrier’ and ‘net-front big-man’ but he’ll bring value in either light.

39. Luca Cagnoni (LHD)

Despite a deceptively-small frame, Cagnoni has established himself as a tremendously reliable player in all three zones. He finds ways to make plays in all areas of the ice and has the confidence to quarterback play himself. Lots of promise if he can stay as well-rounded as he was this year.

40. Étienne Morin (LHD)

A very smooth-moving blue-liner, especially for his size. Morin is a player that coaches can trust with anything, because even on his riskiest plays he finds a way to create chances. Will need more consistency in how he uses his size defensively but it’s exciting to see this many offensive tools in a bigger-frame defender.

41. Otto Stenberg (C/LW)

A tireless playmaker who excels at keeping his head up and navigating through tight space, Stenberg is the type of player that you simply can’t take the puck from. The issue is his inconsistency from competition-to-competition. If Stenberg can bring his international performances to league play, he’ll become a much more valuable player.

42. Alex Čiernik (LW/RW)

Čiernik has an admittedly low ceiling but his ability to fit into heavy-hitting, dump-and-chase styles of play makes him a great choice for teams looking to build out their bottom-six. A tenacious small-man who can play through contact and take the responsibility off his linemates’ shoulders.

43. Mikhail Gulyayev (LHD)

An incredibly talented puck-moving defenseman but one that didn’t seem to find new layers this year. It seemed his growth in the MHL maxed out… but can he consistently find a roster somewhere better?

44. Aram Minnetian (RHD)

One of the best play-creating blue-liners in the draft class but one that’s been stunted by playing for an NTDP team where he didn’t entirely fit. He’s headed to NCAA next year but part of me is holding out for a switch to the OHL.

45. Nick Lardis (RW/LW)

A late blip on the radar but Lardis has been dangerous for a sustained period of time. Lardis is a bullet in speed and strength and knows how to create plays from nothing.

46. Danny Nelson (C/LW/RW/LHD)

One of the youngest players in the class – a fact that’s perhaps the shining light in a year that didn’t see much growth. But Nelson is an incredibly skillful player, capable of playing any position. With added age should come added impact.

47. Riley Heidt (C)

Heidt is a prototypical playmaking center, flexing great ability to control the middle lane of the ice and cohesively gel with his wingers. But lack of any real ability to takeover play himself drops Heidt to my mid-2nd… which still feels a bit generous.

48. Oliver Bonk (RHD)

Oliver Bonk has grown exponentially this season as he’s become more comfortable and confident in pushing the puck up the ice on his own. He’s another admirably-skating defender in this draft class, but sets himself apart with how well he’s able to blend into offensive systems. Bonk retrieves pucks cleanly and takes advantage of all space between him and the offensive blue line.

49. Lenni Hämeenaho (C/RW)

Every draft class has a player that plays a simple, reliable, “third line” type of play. This year, that’s Hämeenaho . He doesn’t jump off the page but a hard-nosed style that properly maintains the middle lane of the ice keeps Hämeenaho productive and effective in all three zones.

50. Oscar Fisker Mølgaard (C)

Fisker Molgaard has the build of a prototypical middle-six center. He’s responsible in his own end, making sure to not stretch too far on the breakout, and does well at headmanning the puck up the ice. His responsible style give his wingers more freedom to be creative, knowing they have a responsible, two-way center in the middle lane.

51. Roman Kantserov (C/LW)

Roman Kantserov is a tireless fireball on offense, using relentless forechecking to win battles for the puck. His awareness and ability to navigate play in the corners or along the boards is impressive, even if he doesn’t have stellar stickhandling, but the question of how he can really stand out from the rest remains.

52. Gracyn Sawchyn (C/LW)

A graceful (pun intended) skater with dazzling stickhandling and the gall to make risky plays and the skill to make them work. But for ever play where he strikes, he has a couple that his lapses result in something negative. My optimism for Sawchyn’s skill carrying him to pros is slim.

53. Ondrej Molnár (LW)

Molnár brings a heft to the wing that’s fairly uncommon. He’s heavy-hitting and barrels through opponents, while still admirably serving in his lane of the ice. While his skating is in need of a boost in fundamentals, his edgework is strong and he uses his hips well to create space and play the puck to his teammates. There’s a lot to improve with Molnár but he feels like a player with the capacity to really positively impact a pro lineup, in a variety of different roles.

54. Martin Mišiak (C)

Martin Mišiak is one of my favorite players in this draft class. If he were a little more independent, he’d be an undeniable First Round talent, to me. But even without that piece, Mišiak is a stellar addition to a line. He rotates well with his teamamtes and knows how to stay in open space. And his shot is deceptively strong. While his processing speed could afford quite a boost, Mišiak projects as a great addition for teams looking for a highly fundamnetal coach’s dream.

55. Brady Cleveland (LHD)

Cleveland is a great passing-defenseman that knows how to quickly make critical decisions in the neutral zone, leading to consistent zone entries for his squad. Continuing to learn how to use his reach to its full effectiveness will give a lot more weight to a playstyle that’s based largely around smooth, lanky play.

56. Denver Barkey (C)

Denver Barkey can absolutely punch above his weight class. The undersized forward consistently found ways to win puck battles, identify space, and create chances. Every shift presents new challenges but Barkey’s keen awareness and tenacious play-driving/forechecking make him quick to respond to obstacles. I worry about how he’ll translate but really admire his current makeup.

57. Jesse Nurmi (C/LW)

Jesse Nurmi is a very fluid winger that does a good job of flowing into open space. Nurmi has a habit to get a little lost but strong skating helps him sustain pressure well or make quick moves when he has the puck on his stick. But I’d like to see more poise as Nurmi gains responsibilities as a play-driver.

58. Matthew Mania (RHD)

Matthew Mania shows of very fluid movement in a very bulky frame. He has the size to play gritty, physical hockey but the agility and edgework to stay mobile. I love Mania’s puck-handling abilities and think there’s room for him to grow into a very solid, transition-specialist defenseman who uses his size to cover for his lapses defensively.

59. Jayden Perron (LW/RW)

Jayden Perron was a major piece in the rapid-moving Chicago Steel system this year. His ability to skate up the ice with immense speed and not lose any processing ability is impressive. Perron can skate with the best of ’em. But it never felt like he could be the defining piece behind a line. I’d instead expect a highly-complimentary role player… if Perron can overcome the serious size factor that looms over him.

60. Dominik Petr (C)

Dominik Petr has the makings of an incredibly reliable transition-specialist. His large frame keeps him from getting knocked off of the puck but his heads-up skating and ability to find space make it easy for him to push through opposing neutral zone setups. If he can add speed to his game, he’d be the exact player I’d want as my third-line center.

61. Tanner Ludtke (C/LW)

Tanner Ludtke has done anything and everything he can to help his team this year. Whether it’s being the first man in on the forecheck, staying high and fighting for open space, or working in the low-slot and corners, Ludtke’s well-rounded skillset lets him do everything effectively. If he can improve his skating, he’ll be an exciting prospect to have on your side.

62. Andrew Strathmann (LHD)

Similar to Hunter Brzustewicz, Andrew Strathmann’s style sits in confidently carrying the puck through the neutral zone and making decisions once he enters the zone. The rub comes in

63. Trey Augustine (G)

An incredibly fast-moving goaltender, Augustine moves like an undersized goalie but shows off an incredibly strong frame as well. But despite having all of the skill, Augustine still looks young. Of course, he is, so no cause for concern just yet, but finding a more mature game will be Augustine’s next big hill.

64. Gabriel Szturc (C)

Szturc was clearly disgruntled about not being drafted last year, because he has dominated WHL play this year. He’s a phenomenal, transition-focused center that operates very well in the middle lane. Perhaps a bit too ‘north-south’ at times but has that leadership skillset that makes an entire roster more cohesive.

— End of Second Round —

65. Michael Hagens (LHD/C/LW)

An incredibly versatile, skilled defenseman who has turned it sine the calendar turned over. Many haven’t found the ‘Mikey Hagens light’ just yet but I feel 65 may be too low. Figure out more by reading an in-depth player breakdown here!

66. Ryan Fine (C/LW/RW)

A deceivingly strong forward who isn’t afraid to jump into the dirty areas or throw the body around. Fine can be the cannonball piece of a lineup, giving his linemates more time and space to do their work. He projects as a potential bottom-six wild card.

67. Jayson Shaugabay (C/LW)

Mr. Hockey struggled to dominate the USHL after his heroic high school season as much as I expected, which may point to some more growth being needed. But Shaugabay is a very sly, nifty forward who uses skill to beat opponents. Big potential as a result.

68. Luca Pinelli (C)

A great north-south striker, Pinelli uses heavy speed to pressure opponents and force turnovers. His lateral game needs some serious improvement but he has the play-creating ability to be a strong impact player if he’s able to continue learning.

69. Tanner Adams (C/RW)

Another super young player, Adams has been a backbone to the Tri-City Storm for two seasons now. He needs to learn to be a bit more exciting – including finding ways to carry the puck and create play on his own – but his reliability and physical presence make large impacts.

70. Cole Knuble (C/RW)

Knuble has been the rock for the Fargo Force for two years. He has a beefy, powerful frame and a drive to always be the first man in on the forecheck, something that he does incredibly effectively

71. Koehn Ziemmer (RW)

A very strong goal-scorer but one that’s happy to let his center do all of the work. Ziemmer underwhelms in how he’s able to control play on his own. But he is a very legitimate goal-scoring talent, fit with a laser-shot and great reaction speed.

72. Paul Fischer (LHD)

If there was a textbook of player styles, Fischer would be the shining example of a sturdy, defense-minded blue-liner. He moves the puck very well but makes sure to stay at home. Tons of reliability… but where does he go from here?

73. Timur Mukhanov (C)

A player worthy of a mid-2nd round pick on talent alone. But a recent trade to Severstal raises serious concerns about potential development. I’m hoping the best for Mukhanov but the situation forces a fall.

74. Benjamin Robertson (LHD)

Perhaps the most underappreciated defenseman of this class, Ben Robertson does phenomenal at attacking up the boards and finding teammates in the slot. He has all aspects of transitional play down, now he’ll just need to iron out his performances in offensive and defensive zone setups.

75. Rasmus Kumpulainen (C)

While a bit of a dopey skater, Kumpulainen does phenomenal at always finding ways to stay open for his teammates. He’s quick with the puck on his stick and keeps his head up to make plays. He also loves throwing the body, something I can certainly get behind in 2023 hockey. He will need to improve drastically at honoring his position and getting better push-off from his strides. But he’s a nice, aware center that doesn’t falter in any of the three zones.

76. Carson Bjarnason (G)

In a lot of ways, Bjarnason is a textbook goaltender. He finds angles well and has tremendous rebound control. But as I’ve watched him more, he’s felt decreasingly dynamic. Bjarnason has a bad tendency to lose his crease in his butterfly and doesn’t react as quickly to quick passes. There’s a nice basis of hybrid fundamentals to work with here but I feel he’s a long step before the pro scene.

77. Alexander Rykov (RW)

Alexander Rykov is a cannonball on the ice. He skates like a player much smaller, but hits like one much bigger, making him a terrifying presence on the forecheck. And with the puck on his stick, Rykov’s quick and conscientious with all of his decisions. But he stays on the perimeter far more than I’d like.

78. Michael DeAngelo (C/RW)

While he does look lost at times, DeAngelo is quickly learning how intimidating his frame can be. Combined with strong hands and a nose for the net and DeAngelo comes out as a potentially high-ceiling, well-rounded centerman. But he’ll need to significantly improve his processing speed and decision-making to get there.

79. Emil Järventie (LW/RW)

Jarventie does it all right. He’s a quick moving, pass-first winger that gets involved in play well without overcommitting or getting too caught up. But he slides on my board because he still has a notable amount of maturing to do if he wants to translate to North American pros smoothly. There’s a strong prospect in Jarventie – so strong that he was previously in many Top 50’s – but his development path will be a windy one; a project I don’t know if I’d have the optimism for.

80. Felix Unger Sorum (RW/C/LW)

I love how… coy?… of a player that Unger Sorum is. He’s slick and makes incredibly deceptive passes. It’s a fun style that makes him a constant threat, especially when combined with as agile of skating as he has. But he does have a tendency to look lost at times, particularly if play isn’t moving towards any one goal. He’ll be interesting to follow, as we learn if just being “nifty” is enough to get to the NHL.

81. Markus Vidicek (C/RW)

Markus Vidicek is an absolute terror on the ice. His aggression is unmatched in the QMJHL and he uses it to limit his opponents from doing anything productive. And while he’s shown off this ability for years, he hasn’t found clean-and-clear ways to turn that aggression into any sort of takeover ability, a fact that holds him back from being too exciting of a prospect. He functions best when his linemates are just as skilled as he is.

82. David Edstrom (LW/C)

Edstrom thrives thanks to his ability to fit perfectly in systems. He’s always in the right spot, keeping him open to teammates and relieving tension when play gets too clogged up. But while he can certainly keep up with fast-moving play, he’s not the type to spark it on his own. Instead, Edstrom’s a fairly slow, methodical player. I think that serves him well in many regards but it also limits his upside.

83. Gavin McCarthy (RHD)

McCarthy’s style lends itself heavily to calm, defensive play. He’s phenomenal at defending the rush and is growing increasingly comfortable at playing physical in his own end. And while it didn’t come to fruition this year, it feels like McCarthy’s smooth skating and confidence with the puck could eventually lead to solid scoring.

84. Kasper Halttunen (LW/C)

A hefty forward that uses his frame to power his way into the danger areas of the ice. But one that’s struggled to build out much speed to his game. Lack of mobility is a big concern but Halttunen’s powerful style could be enough to circumvent it.

85. Carey Terrance (C)

Terrance has fit very well into how CHL teams like to operate. He’s clean on the breakout, pushes the puck through the neutral zone well, and knows how to stay high in the attacking triangle to constantly serve as an option for teammates. I’d like to see him embrace the dirty areas of the ice a little more but there’s a nice amount of poise to base any growth on.

86. Miles Roberts (G)

Previously one of, if not thee, highest-acclaimed goaltenders in this class, Roberts has since fallen out of conversation. But he’s taken significant steps forward this year, doing much better at staying in his crease and making decisions a bit more calmly. With the boost in development he

87. Zeb Forsfjäll (C/LW)

While I admire Forsfjäll’s skating mechanics and overall awareness, I wonder how teams will be able to keep him constantly engaged in the play. He’s a strong systems player that does well at fitting in with his linemates. But his play can feel a bit ‘hit-and-run’, leaving him unimpactful on a decent number of plays.

88. Beau Akey (RHD)

While he is a tremendous puck-mover, Beau Akey’s strength lies in pushing play through his forwards. He blends well and knows when to jump into play to fill holes in offensive attacks. But with a reserved style, it does not feel like Akey will have much offensive bite. He’ll instead be a transition-specialist that could healthily supplement a pro team’s bottom-two pairs.

89. Kaden Shahan (RW/C)

Shahan has interesting value as a high-energy, effective play-driver that can deceptively move off-puck to create high-quality chances. But rather than leaning into that, he’s instead served as a ‘do-it-all’ forechecker for Sioux City. His performances this year certainly speak to his versatile reliability but will what style fits him best remain ambiguous?

90. Mathieu Cataford (C/LW/RW)

Despite operating at a speed 1.5x faster than anyone else on the ice, being able to win any puck battle, and possessing strong playmaking abilities, Mathieu Cataford fails to really take over play. He can get caught puck-watching and fails to dominate possession himself. As it stands, he projects as a perfectly fine bottom-six grinder. But if he can find a new layer of confidence, Cataford could be a lot more.

91. Caden Price (LHD)

There’s a lot to like about Price, who is very confident with the puck on his stick and knows how to create space to allow himself time to process. But when he can’t control play himself, it feels like he gets a little overwhelmed. Yes he started playing hockey only recently but he’s on the same plane as everyone else now… and that plane requires more off-puck work.

92. Felix Nilsson (C/RW/LW)

Nilsson’s mental game is his strongest trait. Despite questionable skating mechanics and a tendency to get a little tunnel-visioned, Nilsson has a very high level of anticipation and uses it to intercept passes, play the puck into open ice, or break past opposing defenders. If the raw skills come along, he could be a nice bottom-six addition.

93. Noel Nordh (RW)

Noel Nordh is feisty, carrying a lot of his strength in his shoulders, making him hard to knock around. His skating fundamentals could use significant improvement – namely how he digs into the ice with his strides – but his tenacity is absolutely there. Another player than can be the first one in on the forecheck, Nordh has the heavy frame to win battles and the quick thinking to secure puck possession.

94. Teddy Townsend (C/LW)

A questionable, but admirable, decision to remain in high school this year feels like it may have held back Townsend from showing off how strong of a playmaker he really can be. Townsend always knows where his other four linemates are and knows how to get to a place where he can get them the puck. But he’s in desperate need of adjustment to higher levels of play.

95. Theo Lindstein (LHD)

Like Otto Stenberg, Lindstein seems to turn it up to 11 when he’s wearing the three crowns. When he’s on, Lindstein’s a ‘do-it-all’ blue-liner with great puck skills. But when he’s off, Lindstein cracks under pressure and can’t find a groove. It’s enough to make me nervous, even if he’s had flashes of ‘First Round’ skill.

96. Tristan Bertucci (LHD)

Tristan Bertucci is a highly-mobile defenseman who thrives in starting play from the regroup. He’s poised and, when given enough space, attacks up the ice beautifully. I also think his defensive game is deceptively strong. But he lacks much direction in a lot of his performance. Bertucci has a bad tendency of jumping into play where he shouldn’t or hanging around too long in soft spots of the zone. He’ll be a project but one that I’d excitingly take on.

— End of Third Round —

97. Jordan Tourigny (RHD)

I really, really enjoy how smoothly Tourigny handles the puck and how fundamental his skating is. He’s a player that can be trusted with headmanning play. But those strengths work against Tourigny, who constantly gets pulled out of position or caught up when he pinches in the offensive zone. It really eats away at a skillset that I would normally take in the Top 75.

98. Adam Gajan (G)

A very fundamental goalie who gets a lot of his work done in the butterfly. Gajan is poised and calm; not one to find himself outside of position despite flexing great movement. But high-volume can overwhelm him, particularly if shots are coming from far out. This feels like a player that will undoubtedly play pro hockey in North America. But it seems it’ll be a curvy road forward.

99. Niko Minkkinen (RHD)

Niko Minkkinen has admirable skating for his size and involves himself in neutral zone plays well – whether that be defending the rush or jumping up into it. His passing is clean and he consistently makes the plays he wants to make. But poor puck-handling and a tendency to get lost in fast-moving setups hold him back from being too impactful.

100. Connor Levis (C)

Connor Levis is a very smart, very responsible player that uses his teammates to help him read plays and know where to strike. It’s a strong approach and one that will help him translate to new teams easily. But he’s more well-rounded than he is dominant in any one category, with nearly every trait coming in as a nice “B” grade, at most. That’s a fine skillset to have but it’s one I’d be hesitant to spend too high on.

Honorable Mentions

Aydar Suniev, Matthew Soto, Kalan Lind, Chris Delaney, Kaden Hammel, Luke Mittelstadt, Joseph Willis, Cameron Allen, Kalle Carlsson, Quinton Burns, Radel Zamaltdinov, Sam Court, Scott Ratzlaff, Carson Rehkopf, Jakub Dvorak, Tyler Peddle, Griffin Erdman, Emil Pieniniemi, Krzysztof Macias, Ryan Conmy, Damien Clara

Final 2023 NHL Draft Rankings