The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa, Ontario is now history. It saw a significant upset as host country Canada was upset from the quarterfinal by Czechia. Meanwhile, the United States defeated Finland in the Gold Medal game, marking the first time they've won this tournament in consecutive years.

It also provided NHL fans their first glimpse of several of the top young prospects in the 2025 Draft. Among them was Team USA center James Hagens, who finished among the tournament's leading scorers. The 18-year-old Hagens is among the favorites to be chosen first this year.

We conducted our annual "Way-Too-Early" NHL Mock Draft last August. With the WJC over and the 2024-25 season at the midpoint, it's a good opportunity to revisit and update our Mock Draft for the New Year based on the NHL standings as of Jan. 8, 2025.

This mock draft is based on player rankings by Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis, TSN's Craig Button, Sportsnet's Jason Bukala and Sam Consentino, and The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari.

The roster needs of the 32 NHL teams were based on prospect pipelined rankings by Steven Ellis, ESPN's Rachel Doerrie, and our previous mock draft. The players' stats and info (as of Jan. 8) are via Elite Prospects.

You can express your thoughts on this topic in our app comments below.

1. Chicago Blackhawks: Matthew Schaefer

ESPN's Rachel Doerrie and Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis indicated Chicago has considerable depth in potential impact players at every position in their prospect pipeline. However, we pointed out in our previous mock draft that they require additional depth among their blueline prospects and believe it remains a priority.

It's why we have Chicago taking Matthew Schaefer of the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League. The 6'2", 183-pound defenseman has 22 points in 17 games and was enjoying a promising performance for Canada at the WJC until sidelined by a broken collarbone suffered during a 3-2 loss to Latvia in the round-robin.

Schaefer's injury was a big blow for Canada in the tournament. The Otters will miss his blue-line presence during his three-month recovery. Nevertheless, his strong performance through the first half suggests he could become an impact defenseman for Chicago's rebuilding roster.

Schaefer, 17, topped Sportsnet's Jason Bukala's December prospect rankings. He cited the youngster's strong play at both ends of the rink, projecting he'll become a workhorse top-pairing NHL defenseman. His colleague Sam Cosentino praised his skating ability while The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari cited his hockey smarts.

2. San Jose Sharks: Porter Martone

We had the San Jose Sharks selecting Porter Martone of the OHL's Brampton Steelheads in our previous mock draft. The 18-year-old right wing remains high on most prospect rankings, sitting atop TSN's Craig Button's Nov. 25 listing.

Button was impressed by Martone's blend of skills, power, edge, and hockey sense, praising his ability to play in any situation. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis compared him to Florida Panthers' winger Matthew Tkachuk whileThe Hockey News Tony Ferrari considers him "the epitome of highly skilled power forwards."

Martone saw limited action for Canada at the WJC with 1 goal in three games. However, he's enjoyed a stellar season with Brampton. The 6'3", 207-pound Steelheads captain leads his club with 21 goals and 34 assists for 55 points in 27 games.

If Martone picks up where he left off with the Steelheads he'll establish himself as a potential first-overall pick. We previously noted the Sharks could use a skilled right-shot defenseman among their top prospects but they might not pass up the opportunity to select Martone.

3. Nashville Predators: James Hagens

In our previous mock draft, we had the Predators selecting 23rd overall based on their finish in last season's standings. They've significantly declined this season, sitting with the league's third-worst record as of Jan. 8. That puts them in line for a high pick in this year's draft.

The Predators have three first-round picks in this year's draft and could use a skilled right-shot defenseman in their prospect pipeline. However, they could instead pursue the best player available with their pick and select Boston College center James Hagens.

Hagens starred for Team USA at this year's World Juniors with nine points in seven games. The 18-year-old center is enjoying a fine rookie year, sitting second among Boston College scorers with 20 points in 16 games.

Tony Ferrari of The Hockey News believes there may not be a more dynamic playmaker and shifty skater in this year's draft class than Hagens. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis thinks he'll become an impact player as soon as he steps into the NHL.

4. Buffalo Sabres: Jackson Smith

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari, Sportsnet's Jason Bukala, and Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis had Jackson Smith of the Western Hockey League's Tri-City Americans ranked among their top-10 prospects. The 6'3", 190-pound defenseman was also their second-highest-ranked defenseman on their prospect lists.

We had Smith going to the Buffalo Sabres on our previous mock draft. We cited their need for blue-line depth within their prospect pipeline. Given the Sabres' current position in the standings and this WHL defenseman's skills, he could be of interest to them in the first round.

Ferrari believes Smith has improved his overall game as a two-way defenseman. Bakula praised his size, strength, and reliability in all situations while Ellis noted his progress as one of the WHL's top young defenders.

Smith has 25 points in 35 games, putting him well on pace to surpass his 29 points last season. He's also the leading scorer among the Americans' defensemen.

5. Seattle Kraken: Logan Hensler

In our previous mock draft, we noted the Seattle Kraken's lack of a defenseman among their top-five prospects. Logan Hensler of the University of Wisconsin could be a prime option to address that issue.

Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino observed the 6'2", 196-pound Hensler handles the puck well in motion and effectively breaks pucks out of the zone. His colleague Jason Bukala believes he's starting to adjust to playing at the NCAA level. He thinks Hensler could be worth his weight in NHL gold once he fully develops.

Hensler has seven points in 17 games with the University of Wisconsin. He also recorded a point in seven games with Team USA at this year's World Junior Championship.

It could take Hensler some time to blossom but his size, potential, and right-hand shot could make him a reliable top-four NHL defenseman. He could prove to be a worthwhile pick for the Kraken.

6. New York Islanders: Michael Misa

ESPN.com's Rachel Doerrie and Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis noted the New York Islanders' prospect pipeline improved following the additions of Cole Eisermann and Jesse Pulkkinen. Nevertheless, the Isles still rank near the bottom of their respective listings.

Michael Misa of the OHL's Saginaw Spirit could significantly improve the depth of the Isles prospect pool. The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari, considers the 17-year-old forward the top prospect in this year's draft.

The 6'1", 185-pound Misa is a versatile forward who can play center or left wing. With 32 goals and 34 assists for 66 points in 34 games, he's on pace to eclipse the 75 points he netted last season. He's second among OHL scorers in points and tied for the goal-scoring lead.

Ferrari praised Misa as a master of many on-ice abilities. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala praises his speed, skill, detail, and shot, noting he logs over 23 minutes of ice time per game. TSN's Craig Button believes he's an elite player.

7. New York Rangers: Anton Frondell

Expected to be among this season's Stanley Cup contenders after winning the Presidents' Trophy last season, the New York Rangers have plummeted in the standings. Barring a significant turnaround, they could end up with a top-five pick in this year's draft.

The Rangers could use some skilled centers among their top prospects, an issue that could become a priority given the drop-off of veteran Mika Zibanejad's production this season. They could turn to Anton Frondell of Djurgårdens IF J20 in Sweden's HockeyAllsvenskan League.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis indicated Frondell missed time due to injury but hasn't wasted his opportunities, emerging as a top-end player in the J20 league. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala called him one of the most elite shooters in this draft class. The Hockey News' Tony Ferarro calls him a "physical beast," with dual-threat scoring ability.

The 6'0", 196-pound Frondell possesses good size for a 17-year-old. He has seven points in 10 games with the J20 Nationell team and five points in 11 games with their HockeyAllsvenskan club.

8. Philadelphia Flyers: Radim Mrtka

We noted the Philadelphia Flyers' need for left-shot defensemen in their prospect pool in our previous mock draft. However, the opportunity to select towering right-shot blueliner Radim Mrtka of the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds could be too tempting to pass up.

The 17-year-old Mrtka is impressively large, at 6'6" and 198 pounds. He began this season with HC Oceláři Třinec in the Czechia Extraliga but transferred to the Thunderbirds. Hockey News' Tony Ferrari noted that he's adjusted well to the North American game.

Mrtka has 11 points in 15 games with the Thunderbirds. He also collected three assists in four games for Czechia at this year's World Juniors.

Ferrari observed that Mrtka skates well for a player of his size, finishes his checks along the boards, and uses his long reach to dislodge pucks. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala noted that he logs big minutes and projects as a two-way NHL defenseman. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis believes he has what it takes to become a reliable shutdown blueliner.

9. Anaheim Ducks: Victor Eklund

The younger brother of San Jose Sharks forward William Eklund, Victor Eklund is having a good season with Djurgårdens IF HockeyAllsvenskan, sitting among their top-10 scorers with 15 points in 24 games.

Eklund, 18, could draw the interest of the Anaheim Ducks. They require natural wingers among their top prospects. The skillful 5'11', 161-pound left winger could fit the bill.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari considers Eklund the dark horse of the first-overall conversation, calling him one of the most entertaining players in the draft class. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala calls him a crafty, creative, quick-strike forward while Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis stated he was an outstanding skater who creates calamity in open ice.

Eklund has also proven himself in international competition. He finished sixth among Sweden's scorers with six points in seven games at this year's World Junior Championship.

10. Detroit Red Wings: Caleb Desnoyers

The Detroit Red Wings were hoping to be a playoff contender but are again struggling to remain in postseason contention. Another top-10 pick could be theirs barring a reversal of fortunes under new head coach Todd McLellan in the second half of this season.

Caleb Desnoyers of the Moncton Wildcats in the Quebec Maritime Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) could be a prime target for the Red Wings. The 6'2", 172-pound center has the skills to become the impact forward the Wings are missing in their prospect pipeline.

Desnoyer, 17, leads the Wildcats with 23 goals and 51 points in 31 games. He's fourth among all QMJHL scorers.

Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino observes Desnoyers plays a responsible two-way game, possessing a high hockey IQ. TSN's Craig Button considers him a competitive, pivotal center in all situations. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis believes his overall abilities will draw plenty of interest in this year's draft.

11. Montréal Canadiens: Malcolm Spence

A big, physical forward who can play several roles, Malcolm Spence of the OHL's Erie Otters is among the top left wings in this year's draft class. The 18-year-old could draw the attention of the Montréal Canadiens as they could seek to bolster their depth in that position among their leading prospects.

The 6'2", 201-pound Spence already has plenty of size to compete at the NHL level. An alternate captain with the Otters, he's second in scoring with 42 points in 33 games, putting him on track to exceed his 62 points in 2023-24.

Tony Ferrari of The Hockey News calls Spence a physical do-it-all forward. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala observes he's logging over 20 minutes per game with the Otters. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis calls him a menace on the ice with the skill to back it up.

Bukala's colleague Sam Cosentino suggests Spence's "B" game would make him an effective NHL third-line who kills penalties. The Canadiens have drafted plenty of high-skilled talent in recent years but could benefit from having someone with Spence's physicality and all-around ability on their roster.

12. Utah Hockey Club: Braeden Cootes

In our previous mock draft, we speculated the Utah Hockey Club could pursue a center after trading Conor Geekie to the Tampa Bay Lightning for Mikhail Sergachev last June. Braeden Cootes of the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds could be an intriguing option for them.

Captain of the Thunderbirds, the 17-year-old Cootes is their leading scorer with 32 points in 35 games. The 6'0', 183-pound center is garnering interest for his intensity and two-way play.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari noted he plays a strong 200-foot game on the underwhelming Thunderbirds. While his offensive numbers aren't eye-popping, it's easy to tell he's the best player on their team.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala calls Cootes a relentless competitor who can play a variety of roles. Sam Cosentino cites his fearlessness and strong work ethic.

13. Ottawa Senators: Carter Bear

The Ottawa Senators selected promising puck-moving defenseman Carter Yakemchuk with the seventh overall pick in last year's draft. They could set their sights on another Carter this season, as in winger Carter Bear of the WHL's Everett Silvertips.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari considers the 18-year-old Bear the most electric and creative player in this draft. He points out that the 6'0", 176-pound forward is a driving force for the Silvertips. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala singled out his hockey sense, calling him a competitive player who consistently gives his all.

Bear tallied 25 goals and 57 points in 67 games in 2023-24. This season, he's second among the Silvertips with 26 goals and 54 points in 31 games.

A versatile forward who can also play center, Bear is on pace for a 50-goal, 100-point campaign. His potential as a scorer could make him enticing for the Senators.

14. Pittsburgh Penguins: Roger McQueen

ESPN.com's Rachel Doerrie and Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis pointed out it's been a long time since the Pittsburgh Penguins had a deep prospect pool. They could try to boost their depth at center with Roger McQueen of the WHL's Brandon Wheat Kings.

At 6'5" and 192 pounds, the 18-year-old McQueen already possesses impressive size. He got off to a good start this season with 11 points in eight games until sidelined by an injury. The big center had a very good sophomore performance last season with 21 goals and 51 points in 53 games.

Ellis noted that McQueen uses his size and strength to push players away like it's nothing, and has the all-around talent to play just about any role. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala noted that he's an intriguing combination of size and skill when healthy.

McQueen's injury could scare off some clubs looking for a skilled prospect center. He could be worth the gamble for the Penguins if he quickly regains his form when he returns to action later this season.

15. St. Louis Blues: Blake Fiddler

Skilled right-shot defensemen appear to be in limited supply in the first round of this year's draft. Blake Fiddler of the WHL's Edmonton Oil Kings could be among the few who become prized commodities among teams seeking a promising right-side blueliner.

The St. Louis Blues are among those clubs. ESPN.com's Rachel Doerrie and Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis cited the limited depth of defensemen in their prospect pipeline, especially those who shoot right.

Fiddler, 17, is already a big blueliner, standing 6'4" and weighing 209 pounds. He has 14 points in 33 games as an Oil Kings sophomore and is on the verge of eclipsing his 15 points last season.

Ellis indicated that Fiddler uses his size and strength effectively to clear opponents from the front of the net. He also noted that he's logging over 22 minutes a game. The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari praised his hockey sense and active stick.

16. Columbus Blue Jackets: Joshua Ravensbergen

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis believes the Columbus Blue Jackets lack an impact player among their goaltending prospects. They're already well-stocked with prospects at other positions and could use this opportunity to address that need between the pipes.

Joshua Ravensbergen of the WHL's Prince George Cougars could be the solution for the Blue Jackets. Ellis believes the 18-year-old native of North Vancouver, BC could become the NHL's next star goaltender.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala considers the 6'5", 192-pound Ravensbergen the top-rated goaltender in this year's draft, citing his aggressive style, coordination and ability. Sam Cosentino believes he has plenty of room to add more size to his big frame.

Ravensbergen has a record of 15 wins, five losses, and four overtime losses this season with a 2.83 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage. He's second in wins among WHL goalies and the top 10 in goals-against average and save percentage.

17. Nashville Predators (via Tampa Bay Lightning): Cameron Schmidt

The Nashville Predators acquired this pick from the Tampa Bay Lightning in February 2023 as part of the trade that sent forward Tanner Jeannot to the Lightning. It is top-10 protected but that condition wouldn't apply given the Lightning's current placement in the standings.

We have the Predators selecting James Hagens with their first-round pick. We suggested in our previous mock draft that they might pursue a right wing if no suitable right-shot defensemen were available. They could use this pick to select Cameron Schmidt of the WHL's Vancouver Giants.

A small winger at 5'7" and 157 pounds, Schmidt has been lighting it up for the Giants this season. He's their leading scorer with 29 goals and 46 points in 34 games. He's also the league's goal-scoring leader.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari observed Schmidt is a pesky scorer who doesn't shy away from physical play despite his lack of size. TSN's Craig Button praised his skills while Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis cited his competitive nature.

18. Boston Bruins: Justin Carbonneau

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis and ESPN.com's Rachel Doerrie have the Boston Bruins sitting near the bottom of their prospect pipeline rankings. They need depth everywhere but especially at right wing.

One option could be Justin Carbonneau of the QMJHL's Blainville-Boisbriand Armada. The 6'1", 192-pound right wing has 24 goals and 48 points in 36 games, putting him on pace to eclipse last season's total of 59 points in 68 games. He's second among the Armada's scorers.

Ellis praised Carbonneau's skating, strength, and quick thinking when pressured. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala considers him highly gifted on the offensive side, singling out his passing skills and finesse.

Carbonneau's game-to-game consistency was an issue noted by Ellis but he believes that'll improve with maturity. The young winger could go on to become a top-six NHL scorer.

19. Montréal Canadiens (via Calgary Flames): Lynden Lakovic

PuckPedia indicates the Montréal Canadiens receive the Calgary Flames' first-round pick as part of the conditions of the Sean Monahan trade in August 2022. We have the Canadiens choosing left wing Malcolm Spence with their first-rounder but they could continue shoring up that position by selecting Lynden Lakovic of the WHL's Moose Jaw Warriors.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis considered the 6'4", 190-pound Lakovic an intriguing forward with the ability to generate offense from all over the ice. The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari thinks he's a bit of a raw player but noted he's grown more comfortable using his size, suggesting he has plenty of potential.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala cited Lakovic's undeniable skill but would prefer seeing the 18-year-old use his size more to his advantage. His colleague Sam Cosentino believes he has the potential to become a top-six NHL forward.

Lakovic has 39 points in 31 games, already tying last season's points total. He sits second among the Warriors' leading scorers.

20. Vancouver Canucks: Ivan Ryabkin

It's been an unusual season thus far for Ivan Ryabkin. The 17-year-old Russian center spent most of it bouncing among the Kontinental Hockey League's Moskva Dynamo and their minor-league affiliates. However, the 6'0", 198-pounder was recently released from his KHL contract and joined the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League (USHL).

The Vancouver Canucks could have Ryabkin on their radar. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis noted that they're lacking center depth among their prospects. His terrific shot, strong skating, and solid playmaking skills could garner attention, especially now that he's playing in North America.

Observers noted Ryabkin's unusual season but also expressed some concerns. He ranked highly among Ellis' ranking of the top prospects and those of Sportsnet's Jason Bukala and Sam Cosentino. However, they noted his lack of production and inconsistent play.

Ryabkin had a promising start with the Lumberjacks, tallying three goals in his first two games. If he performs well over the remainder of the USHL season it could send his stock rising among this season's top prospect.

21. Carolina Hurricanes: Jake O'Brien

The Carolina Hurricanes have done well drafting and developing young talent. Their prospect pool is among the league's best. However, they require additional depth among their young centers.

That need could have the Hurricanes consider Jake O'Brien of the OHL's Brantford Bulldogs. Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino noted that the 17-year-old center was the OHL Rookie of the Year last season, finishing with 64 points in 61 games.

O'Brien is tall and slender at 6'2" and 170 pounds but he is tearing it up this season with 21 goals and 50 points in 39 games, putting him third among the Bulldogs and on pace for 90 points.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala called O'Brien a gifted playmaker with excellent vision. The Hockey News' Tony Ferarri noted it took him some time to get going this season but cited his overall improvement, including his shooting and strength.

22. Philadelphia Flyers (via Colorado Avalanche): Cullen Potter

Following a solid season with the United States National Team Development Program, Cullen Potter is in his freshman season with Arizona State University. The 17-year-old left wing sits among their top-10 scorers with 10 points in 18 games.

Potter could interest the Philadelphia Flyers at this stage of the first round. They acquired this pick last March from the Colorado Avalanche in the trade for Sean Walker. It is top-10 protected but that condition wouldn't apply given the Avalanche's current position in the standings.

The Flyers have three first-round picks in this year's draft. We have them selecting defenseman Radim Mrtka with their first pick. We also had them chosing the 5'9", 168-pound Potter in our previous mock draft but believe he's still a suitable selection to address their need for left wing depth among their top prospects.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari pointed out Potter has adjusted well to the NCAA level, calling him ahead of his teammates in terms of passing skills. Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino praised his speed, competitiveness, and defensive play.

23. Dallas Stars: Viktor Klingsell

ESPN.com's Rachel Doerrie praised the Dallas Stars' ability to extract extra value out of their late first-rounders and second-round picks. They could have the same success with Viktor Klingsell of Skellefteå AIK in the Swedish Hockey League.

The Stars could look to boost their depth at left wing within their prospect pipeline. Klingsell, 17, has had a promising season thus far. The 5'10", 183-pounder has 17 points in 25 games and sits among Skellefteå AIK J20's leading scorers.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala observed Klingsell drives the play with his pace while colleague Sam Cosentino cites his skating and passing ability. The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari noted he steps up his game whenever he plays for Sweden.

Cosentino believes Klingsell has top-six potential. The Stars could be the right club to help him become that type of left winger.

24. Los Angeles Kings: Charlie Tretheway

USNTDP defenseman Charlie Tretheway tumbled down several prospect ranking lists. However, TSN's Craig Button had him at No. 13, making the 17-year-old blueliner the highest-ranked player from the USNTDP Under-18 team on his list.

Button believes Tretheway might be like Washington Capitals blueliner John Carlson at the same age. He praised the 6'1", 190-pounder's offensive skills and ability to jump into the play.

That could put Tretheway on the Kings' radar if they want to boost their depth in right-shot defensemen among their top prospects. He has 11 points in 33 games with the U18 team and three points in nine games with their USNTDP Junior squad in the USHL.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis shared Button's assessment of Tretheway's abilities. He also cited the youngster's two-way acumen and physical traits, calling him a player to keep a close eye on.

25. Calgary Flames (via Florida Panthers): Cole Reschny

PuckPedia indicates the Calgary Flames received this pick from the Florida Panthers as part of the return in the Matthew Tkachuk trade in July 2022. They could attempt to find a scoring forward with this selection.

Cole Reschny of the WHL's Victoria Royals could be an option for the Flames. A versatile forward, the 5'10", 187-pounder can play center or right wing. He's the Royals leading scorer this season with 45 points in 36 games.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis cited Reschny's smarts, quickness, and ability to get into position to pounce on rebounds. The Hockey News' Tony Ferarri admired his silky smooth passing and snappy wrist shot.

Reschny is on pace for an 80-point performance this season. With time and development, he could blossom into a skilled NHL scorer.

26. Calgary Flames (via New Jersey Devils): Brady Martin

The Calgary Flames acquired this pick as part of the return in last June's Jacob Markstrom trade. It's top-10 protected but that condition doesn't apply given the Devils' placement in the standings.

With this pick, the Flames could continue to boost their offensive talent within their prospect pipeline. Brady Martin of the OHL's Sault-Ste Marie Greyhounds could be an intriguing possibility. The 17-year-old center has 29 points in 28 games, exceeding his 28 points last season. The 6'0", 174-pounder sits third among the Greyhounds' leading scorers.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala considers Martin a slow-but-steady riser who must be seen often to be fully appreciated. However, his colleague Sam Consentino praised his puck movement, vision, and reliable three-zone play, singling out his lead-by-example style.

Consentino believes Martin can become a middle-six NHL forward. Still, he could become more than that as he matures and develops his game.

27. Philadelphia Flyers (via Edmonton Oilers): Kashawn Aitcheson

The Philadelphia Flyers acquired this pick from the Edmonton Oilers during the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft. It's the Flyers third first-round selection in this year's draft. This pick is top-12 protected but that condition doesn't apply considering where the Oilers are in the standings.

We had the Flyers selecting Radim Mrtka and Cullen Potter with their two picks earlier in this round. Kashawn Aitcheson could be an enticing option for the Flyers. The 6'1", 198-pound defenseman is in his third season with the OHL's Barrie Colts.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis singled out Aitcheson's physical style and penalty-killing. He doesn't see him as a big point producer at the NHL level, though he has 25 points in 34 games with the Colts this season.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala and Sam Cosentino also praised Aitcheson's physical game. Bukala noted he averages over 24 minutes of ice time per game and pointed out that his puck play and offensive game are improving.

28. Chicago Blackhawks (via Toronto Maple Leafs): Cameron Reid

Chicago acquired this pick from the Toronto Maple Leafs as part of the return for defenseman Jake McCabe and forward Sam Lafferty in Feb. 2023. It's top-10 protected but that's a moot point given the Leafs' high position in the overall standings.

We have Chicago using their first-rounder to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer. They could choose Cameron Reid of the OHL's Kitchener Rangers to continue building their prospect blueline depth.

An alternate captain with the Rangers, Reid has 30 points in 38 games, exceeding last season's 23 points as a rookie. The 6'0", 174-pounder is among their leading scorers and highest-scoring defenseman.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari considers Reid among the most improved players since the start of the season, praising his passing and mobility in all three zones. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala noted he logs over 23 minutes of ice time per game and singled out his excellent skating.

29. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Minnesota Wild): Milton Gästrin

The Columbus Blue Jackets acquired this pick from the Minnesota Wild in the David Jiricek trade on Nov. 30. It's a top-five protected pick but that won't apply here given the Wild's high position in the standings.

We have the Blue Jackets choosing goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen with their first-round pick. They could consider adding a skillful, versatile two-way forward with this selection.

Milton Gästrin of MoDo Hockey in Sweden's Elite League (SHL) could be a good option for the Blue Jackets. Sportsnet's Jason Bukala calls him the type of player who produces value. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis praised his speed, two-way play, and work ethic while The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari singled out his consistency.

The 6'1", 185-pound Gästrin can play center or left wing. He missed some time this season with an injured hand. Nevertheless, he appeared in five games with MoDo Hockey in the SHL and has 27 points in 23 games with their J20 Nationell squad.

30. Winnipeg Jets: Jack Murtagh

In our previous mock draft, we noted the Winnipeg Jets' need for more left wingers among their top prospects. Jack Murtagh of the USNTDP could be a suitable option for them.

Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis observed that injuries have hampered Murtagh this season but when he's played he's made it count. The 6'0", 185-pound forward has 11 goals and 23 points in 24 games with the USNTDP team and four points in seven contests with their USHL Junior squad.

Sportsnet's Jason Bukala called Murtagh a stocky/strong player who plays with pace and tenacity, pointing out he plays in all situations. Sam Cosentino cited his high energy level and skill to do damage around the net.

Murtagh can play center or left wing. That versatility combined with his skills could make him an intriguing late-round selection.

31. Washington Capitals: William Moore

In our previous mock draft. we noted that the Washington Capitals' depth at center among their top prospects was a little thin. The USNTDP's William Moore could be a player worth watching for the Capitals.

Moore's stock dropped among some experts' prospect rankings since the start of the season. Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis praised Moore's physical maturity, hockey IQ, and speed but believes he must play with more urgency. Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino also believes he must add more consistency to his game.

The Hockey News' Tony Ferrari attributes this partly to his playing for a USNTDP team that is as weak as it has been in years. He thinks the 6'2", 161-pound Moore could improve his mobility once he starts playing in the NCAA.

Moore has put up decent stats thus far. He has 25 points in 33 games with the NTDP U18 team and six points in nine games with the Junior squad in the USHL.

32. Nashville Predators (via San Jose Sharks and Vegas Golden Knights): Luca Romano

The Nashville Predators received this pick from the San Jose Sharks as part of the return in the Yaroslav Askarov trade on Aug. 23. The Sharks had acquired it from the Vegas Golden Knights in the Tomáš Hertl deal last March.

We have the Predators choosing center James Hagens with their own pick and right wing Cameron Schmidt with the pick they received from the Tampa Bay Lightning. They could use this opportunity to add another right winger by selecting Luca Romano of the OHL's Kitchener Rangers.

Listed as a center by Elite Prospects, Sportsnet's Jason Bukala and Sam Consentino indicate Romano also plays right wing. They praised his offensive style, noting he has plenty of energy and creates scoring opportunities.

The 5'11", 168-pound Romano has scored 15 goals and 32 points in 37 games in his sophomore season with the Rangers, surpassing last season's 22-point rookie numbers. He sits third among their scoring leaders.