The final rankings of North American hockey players by NHL Central Scouting suggest that a significant number of players with ties to NCAA Division I teams are likely to be sought after in the upcoming NHL draft.
Leading the list is Boston University center Macklin Celebrini, a strong contender for the No. 1 overall pick. At 18 years old, Celebrini has just completed an exceptional freshman season for the Terriers. His outstanding performance on the ice earned him recognition as the Hobey Baker Award winner, a prestigious accolade in the world of college hockey. Hailing from Vancouver, British Columbia, the 6-foot, 190-pound rising star finished second in the nation in goals (32) and third in points (64).
The rankings also feature Artyom Levshunov, an 18-year-old defenseman from Zhlobin, Belarus, and Zeev Buium, an 18-year-old defenseman from San Diego. Levshunov, ranked as the No. 2 skater, had an impressive showing at Michigan State, finishing second in assists (25) and points (35) and ranking 13th in the nation in plus/minus (plus-27). Meanwhile, Buium, ranked at No. 4, made significant contributions to Denver’s success, leading NCAA defensemen in assists (39) and points (50) and tying for fourth in the nation in plus/minus (plus-33).
Other notable inclusions in the top 10 among North American skaters are Trevor Connelly and Michael Hage, both 18 years old and committed to playing for college programs. Connolly, ranked at No. 6, was a standout player for the Tri-City Storm in the USHL. Hage, who is committed to Michigan, delivered an outstanding performance for the Chicago Steel, earning him the tenth spot on the list.
It’s also noteworthy that a substantial number of players committed to college programs have made it to the rankings, further underscoring the significance of collegiate hockey in shaping future NHL prospects.
These players will be eagerly anticipated in the NHL draft, set to take place in Las Vegas on June 28-29. The presence of these noteworthy college players reflects the growing impact of college hockey in producing top-tier talent for the professional league.