NHL Top 50 Forwards Under 25

Oct 20, 2015; Newark, NJ, USA; Arizona Coyotes center

Max Domi

(16) skates with the puck while being defended by New Jersey Devils right wing

Kyle Palmieri

(21) during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

NHL top 50 forwards under 25 years of age: The first of three countdowns. Also upcoming, “Top 25 Defense Under 25“, and “Top 10 Goalies Under 25“. So make sure to keep posted.

Union and Blue

2015-16 has seen the emergence of some young off the radar players, while others look poised to bounce back from tough seasons. Our NHL top 50 forwards features some new faces that could quickly climb up the rankings as the season progresses.

Birth date cut off for our NHL top 50 forwards will be October 21st, 1990.  The rankings are solely individual opinion based on current performance to date.  As the season progresses, the list is subject to change and could look very different in later releases.

Before heading into the countdown, let’s take a look at some of the honorable mentions that just fell short of the top 50 forwards under 25 years of age.

*any stats for the NHL top 50 forwards were obtained from hockeydb.com

Brayden Schenn, Philadelphia Flyers

Coming off a 47 point season in 2014-15, but has been the topic of trade rumors after falling short of expectations.  Still has a chance to redeem himself as one of the top young talents.

Artemi Panarin, Chicago Blackhawks

The KHL superstar signed with Chicago this past offseason and has looked great early into his NHL rookie season with seven points in six games to open 2015-16.

Oct 10, 2015; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild forward

Charlie Coyle

(3) skates with the puck in the second period against the St Louis Blues at Xcel Energy Center. The Minnesota Wild beat the St Louis Blues 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Charlie Coyle, Minnesota Wild

Former 28th overall pick by San Jose, Coyle was the prized piece in the Brent Burns deal.  He’s shown progression over his past couple seasons and has three points in five games to being 2015-16.

Mattias Janmark, Dallas Stars

Former 3rd round pick of Detroit was part of the deal in 2014-15 that sent Erik Cole to Detroit in March.  He wasn’t expected to make the team out of training camp this year, but has had an impact as a rookie with four points in six games.

Boone Jenner, Columbus Blue Jackets

The former second rounder has shown growth in each of his last two seasons, and could be poised to climb into our next NHL top 50 forwards rankings.  He has three goals in seven games with the winless Blue Jackets.

Tomas Hertl, San Jose Sharks

Burst onto the scene as a rookie with that four goal performance a lot of fans might remember.  Hertl fell victim to the sophomore slump last season, but has the talent to climb up our rankings down the road.  He has three points in six games with the Sharks so far.

Valeri Nichushkin, Dallas Stars

After making the team out of training camp as an 18 year old, Nichushkin has had a rough start to his young career being plagued with injuries thus far.  He has first line potential, but needs to stay healthy long enough for consistent production.

Oct 13, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Vancouver Canucks center

Bo Horvat

(53) and Los Angeles Kings defenseman

Drew Doughty

(8) chase down the puck in the first period of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Bo Horvat, Vancouver Canucks

An underrated young guy who makes his presence felt every time he’s on the ice.  He hasn’t show us what he’s fully capable of, but he should be a fun player to watch grow.

Robby Fabbri, St.Louis Blues

Fabbri almost made a deep Blues squad as an 18 year old, before finally getting his shot this season with the big club.  Unfortunately, after two games and a goal for, Robby Fabbri suffered a concussion that has kept him out since.  He’s got the talent to easily sky rocket up the rankings eventually.

Next: 50-41

May 6, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Andre Burakovsky (65) celebrates after scoring a goal against the New York Rangers in the second period in game four of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

40. Andre Burakovsky, Washington Capitals (20 years old)

Had 22 points in 53 games in 2014-15 during his rookie season with the Capitals. The young Austrian is a talented young player who should earn a bigger role in 2015-16 from bench boss Barry Trotz. Burakovsky has a goal and an assist in five games so far this year.

39. Nikolaj Ehlers, Winnipeg Jets (19 years old)

Regarded by some experts as the next best rookie behind Eichel and McDavid heading into 2015-16. Playing alongside Mark Schiefele and Mathieu Perreault on the second line, Ehlers has one goals and three assists in six games with the Jets.

Oct 14, 2014; Raleigh, NC, USA; Buffalo Sabres forward Sam Reinhart (23) before the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in a shootout. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

38. Sam Reinhart, Buffalo Sabres (19 years old)

Currently receiving around 15 minutes of ice-time per game, Reinhart has a goal and an assist in six games. He’s currently residing on the Sabres top line with O’Reilly and Ennis, although we could see line shuffling as the season progresses.

37. Anthony Duclair, Arizona Coyotes (20 years old)

After a nice stint with the Rangers last season, Duclair was eventually traded as part of the Keith Yandle deal. The 2015-16 season is still early, but Domi and Duclair are already making a case for their names in the Calder race. Duclair already has seven points in six games played with Arizona.

36. Nick Bjugstad, Florida Panthers (23 years old)

Coming off a 24-goal campaign in 2014-15, showing us that he’s more than just a skilled power forward. Bjugstad could easily be a 30 goal scorer in the NHL and has started 2015-16 off right with two goals and one assist in five games playing on the Panthers second line.

35. Jeff Skinner, Carolina Hurricanes (23 years old)

Here’s a guy that keeps falling down any similar rankings over the past few seasons due to a shaky injury history. He managed to play 71 games in 2013-14, followed by 77 last year in 2014-15, so it seems as if he’s put the concussion issues behind him. Unfortunately, he’s only one or two headshots away from having his career put in jeopardy.

34. Evander Kane, Buffalo Sabres (24 years old)

Kane came over late last year prior to the trade deadline, but opted for shoulder surgery which delayed his Sabres debut to 2015-16. In five games with Buffalo so far, he has one goal and two assists in six games.

October 18, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings center Tyler Toffoli (73) moves in to score a goal against the Colorado Avalanche during the second period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

33. Tyler Toffoli, Los Angeles Kings (23 years old)

Toffoli has seen steady increases in production during his first three NHL seasons. He had 23 goals and 26 assists in 2014-15. Locked into a top-six role with Los Angeles, Tyler Toffoli has three goals in five games to start 2015-16.

32. Ryan O’Reilly, Buffalo Sabres (24 years old)

After trading for their prized acquisition in the offseason, Buffalo proceeded by locking down O’Reilly to a 7-year extension. He got in a bit of offseason trouble, but has since made hockey his focus producing three points in six games with the Sabres so far.

31. Chris Kreider, New York Rangers (24 years old)

Kreider has been a big producer in the regular season and playoffs in the past two season in New York. With the departure of Carl Hagelin and Martin St.Louis, Kreider will see an expanded role in 2015-16. Currently, Kreider has three assists in seven games played.

Next: 30-21

Apr 7, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Mark Scheifele (55) takes a shot against the St. Louis Blues during the first at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

30. Mark Scheifele, Winnipeg Jets (22 years old)

Scheifele had 36 points his rookie season in 2013-14, followed up with 49 points in 2014-15. Playing on the second line with rookie sensation Nikolaj Ehlers, Scheifele has already managed three goals and an assist in six games played.

29. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Edmonton Oilers (22 years old)

The former number one pick has had a slower start to his career than fans and experts might have expected. Good news, with Connor McDavid in the mix, the entire cast of former high end picks should benefit from Connor’s presence alone. Whether you’re playing with the phenom, or the benefactor or having a more skilled linemate due to McDavid, it’s a win-win situation.

28. Matt Duchene, Colorado Avalanche (24 years old)

Third pick behind John Tavares and Victor Hedman at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Duchene scored a career-high 70 pts in 2013-14, and digressed slightly in 2014-15 with 55 points (matching his rookie point total). Duchene has one goal in five games this season.

Oct 17, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher (11) celebrates his goal against Detroit Red Wings with teammate center Tomas Plekanec (14) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

27.Brendan Gallagher, Montreal Canadiens (23 years old)

Whether you refer to him as an “agitator” or “pest”, Gallagher is small skilled forward who can get under opponents skin. He’s seen increases in point totals in his first three seasons, tallying 47 points in 2014-15. Gallagher has six points in seven games to start the 2015-16 campaign.

26. Ryan Strome, New York Islanders (22 years old)

The former 5th overall pick from 2011 had a breakout season for the Islanders in 2014-15 putting up 50 points. To open 2015-16, Strome has at least for now taken the top spot alongside John Tavares on the first line. He has four points in six games playing with Johnny T.

25. Gabriel Landeskog, Colorado Avalanche (22 years old)

Named youngest captain in NHL history back in 2012, the ride has been anything but smooth to start his career. He’s been a steady producer for the Avs with a career-high 65 points so far, but Colorado is hoping to see more out of their young captain. Six points in five games is an excellent way to start 2015-16.

24. Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red Wings (19 years old)

The first Red Wings teenager to score in his first game since Steve Yzerman, and first teenager to appear on Detroit’s opening night roster since Jiri Fischer in the late 90s. Larkin has looked spectacular early into his rookie season with six points in six games already. Look for him to continue to climb up the rankings.

Oct 16, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Minnesota Wild center Mikael Granlund (64) moves the puck during the third period at Staples Center. The Los Angeles Kings won in overtime 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

23. Mikael Granlund, Minnesota Wild (23 years old)

Heading into his fourth season in 2015-16, fans and experts were calling for Granlund to shoot more after an 8-33 stat-line in 2013-14, and 8-31 in 2014-15. He’s only got a goal and three assists in five games so far, but looks more committed shooting the puck. Granlund is still an excellent playmaker regardless.

22. Max Domi, Arizona Coyotes (20 years old)

Another guy that could shoot way up our list, rookie Max Domi is off to a tear in 2015-16 with seven points in six games playing for a hot Coyotes team to begin the season. Domi and Duclair have looked excellent together on the powerplay early on. Domi was taken 12th overall at the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

21. Sean Monahan, Calgary Flames (21 years old)

One of the more exciting young duo’s consists of Monahan and Gaudreau. After scoring 34 points in his rookie season, Monahan saw a spike in production last season with the emergence of Gaudreau, watching his point total rise to 62. If this young duo can get a highly-skilled right winger, it could make for one of the more dangerous lines in hockey.

Next: 20-16

Oct 12, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) celebrates his goal against the Boston Bruins with defenseman Anton Stralman (6) and left wing Ondrej Palat (18) during the second period at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

20. Ondrej Palat, Tampa Bay Lightning (24 years old)

Another gem from the 2011 Draft, Tampa Bay found Ondrej Palat in the seventh round surprisingly. Hard to believe that a guy who had 96 points with Drummondville of the QMJHL in his draft year, somehow managed to slip to the seventh round. After paying his dues for a couple years, Palat saw a short-stint with Tampa Bay in 2012-13 during the lockout shortened season playing 14 games and tallying four points.

His first full season was 2013-14 when he produced 59 points in 81 games, followed by 63 points in 75 games in 2014-15. Palat also had 16 points in 26 games during the Lightning’s run to the Cup final last season. He already has three points in seven games to open the 2015-16 campaign.

19. Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (22 years old)

A 2011 second round steal by the Lightning has developed into one of the core players for this young team. Originally drafted out of the KHL, Kucherov elected to play in major junior for one season having a productive playoff run with Rouyn-Noranda of the QMJHL, tallying 24 points in 14 games.

Kucherov spent some time in the AHL in 2013-14 before getting the call up with the Lightning. He had 18 points in 56 games his rookie season. In 2014-15, he exploded onto the scene cementing himself as a core piece with Tampa Bay putting up 64 points in the regular season, followed by 22 points during their run to the finals. Kucherov has only played seven games in 2015-16 but has two goals so far.

Oct 14, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Brandon Saad (20) against the Ottawa Senators at Nationwide Arena. The Senators won 7-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

18. Brandon Saad, Columbus Blue Jackets (22 years old)

Taken in the second round 43rd overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2011, Saad was traded this past offseason to Columbus for Artem Anisimov and Marko Dano. During the lockout shortened season in 2012-13, Saad had 27 points in 46 games, followed up with six points in 23 playoff games.

Saad broke out in 2013-14 with 47 points in 78 games, along with 16 points in 19 games during the playoffs. Last season in 2014-15, Brandon Saad had 52 points in 82 games and provided 11 points in 26 games on route to his second Stanley Cup in three years. Now in Columbus for 2015-16, he’s still managed four points in seven games on a winless Blue Jackets squad that just lost their head coach.

17. Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers (20 years old)

Standing at 6’3 213lbs, this big center was a can’t miss European prospect when he was taken second overall at the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. He played 54 games his rookie season in 2013-14 producing 24 points. He showed vast signs of improvement during his sophomore season in 2014-15 tallying 36 points in 71 games.

Now with a couple years of NHL experience, Barkov has taken over leadership control along with Jonathan Huberdeau and both are being depended upon to play major roles in 2015-16. Having a full season alongside future hall-of-famer Jaromir Jagr will be a significant experience for the Panthers young top-liners, as they can learn from one of the best when it comes to preparation and dedication to the game. Already in 2015-16 Aleksander Barkov has three goals and three assists in six games. His numbers will continue to be on the rise this season.

Oct 13, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Jonathan Drouin (27) skates with the puck in the second period against the Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

16. Jonathan Drouin, Tampa Bay Lightning (20 years old)

Hopes were that the 2013 third overall pick would have developed a little quicker. Holder of 100+ point season in his last two years of junior with Halifax of the QMJHL. He even had 41 points in 17 playoff games his last year with the Mooseheads in 2013-14.

Drouin had a tough year in 2014-15, falling short of expectations with just 32 points in 70 games. He only appeared in six games for the Lightning during their long playoff run. His ceiling is much higher than what we’ve seen so far, but looks as though he’s off to a terrific start in 2015-16 with six points in seven games.

Next: 15-11

Oct 14, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ottawa Senators center Mika Zibanejad (93) against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. The Senators won 7-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

15. Mika Zibanejad, Ottawa Senators (22 years old)

Drafted out of Djurgardens IF Stockholm in the SHL (Swedish Elite League) sixth overall at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. After spending a 9-game stint with the Senators to open the season, he was sent back to Sweden for one more year. In 2012-13 during the lockout shortened season, Zibanejad spent his time getting acclimated to North American style play putting up 11 points in 23 games with Binghamton. He appeared in 42 games that season with Ottawa, tallying 20 points. He also had four points in 10 games during Ottawa’s short playoff run.

In 2013-14, Zibanejad had a short stint with Binghamton, but appeared in 69 games for Ottawa putting up 33 points. In 2014-15, he had 46 points in 80 games during the regular season plus four point in six games during the playoffs. Mike Zibanejad has shown vast improvement each and every season so far with Ottawa. He always had the offensive skills, but is learning to be an effective two-way player. He’s still got room to grow into that ceiling potential he possesses, so he should have a productive 2015-16. So far he’s accumulated five points in six games.

14. Alex Galchenyuk, Montreal Canadiens (21 years old)

This 6’2 205lbs center was drafted third overall at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by Montreal. It was an interesting pick at the time because scouts knew he had elite talent, but was injured most of his draft season. He only appeared in a couple regular season games for OHL’s Sarnia Sting, while adding four points in six playoff games. Galchenyuk spent the first half of the lockout shortened season in Sarnia where he tallied 61 points in 33 games. He appeared in all 48 games for Montreal, producing 27 points as a rookie.

He only appeared in 65 games for the Canadiens in 2013-14 putting up 31 points. Sophomore struggles plagued Galchenyuk in his second year of pro hockey. He saw an increase in production in 2014-15, putting up 46 points in 80 games. It didn’t come without its struggles though, as Galchenyuk found himself in the doghouse at one point. Montreal has since switched Lars Eller to the wing giving Galchenyuk his natural center position back. It’s worked out well so far, as Alex has six points in seven games already.

Oct 10, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Nashville Predators center Filip Forsberg (9) during the first period against the Edmonton Oilers at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

13. Filip Forsberg, Nashville Predators (21 years old)

Hard to believe that 10 teams passed on this young man at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft before Washington drafted him 11th overall. Filip Forsberg was sacrificed in an attempt to get better at the trade deadline when Washington acquired Martin Erat and Michael Latta. In 2013-14, Forsberg spent the majority of his time with AHL Milwaukee accumulating 34 points in 47 games. He also appeared in 13 games for the Predators producing five points.

Playing in his first full season in 2014-15 for Nashville, Filip Forsberg was nothing short of spectacular for the Predators tallying 63 points over 82 games. Filip emerged as one the Preds leaders last season, and will continue to be heavily depended upon going forward in the future. Forsberg is once again off to a hot start in 2015-16, producing six points in six games so far.

12. Taylor Hall, Edmonton Oilers (23 years old)

Edmonton has been fortunate to accumulate numerous first overall picks over the past half decade. If you had to rank their firsts, Taylor Hall would come just behind McDavid. Taken in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Hall had an immediate impact with 42 points in 65 games his rookie season in 2010-2011. In 2011-12, Taylor had 53 points in 61 games but missed time due to injury.

During the lockout shortened season, Hall spent time with AHL Oklahoma City putting up 34 points in 26 games. He played 45 of 48 games that season, putting up an impressive 50 points. In 2013-14, Hall had his second healthy season playing 75 games and producing a career-high 80 points. Last season in 2014-15, Hall was plagued by injuries and only saw 53 games with Edmonton producing 38 points. The 2015-16 season is young, but he already has four points in seven games. The lines are still being shuffled around in Edmonton, and will continue to be upon the return of Jordan Eberle from injury. Young Oilers like McDavid, Hall, and Eberle are easily capable of scoring at a point per game pace.

Oct 10, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators right wing Mark Stone (61) takes a shot against Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports

11. Mark Stone, Ottawa Senators (23 years old)

Ottawa Senators scouting department hit a home run when they drafted Mark Stone in the sixth round at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. After being drafted, Stone exploded onto the scene with the Brandon Wheat Kings putting up 106 points in 2010-11, followed up with 123 points in 2011-12. He spent the next two seasons mostly with AHL Binghamton, which included a couple short stints with the Senators.

Stone earned a full-time spot with Ottawa heading into last season, and made the most of his opportunity walking away as one of the best performers in 2014-15. He had 64 points in 80 games during the regular season, followed up by 4 points in 6 games during the playoffs. Mark Stone and Mike Hoffman emerged as two of Ottawa’s best last season, and both continue to tear it up this season. Stone has eight points in six games with Ottawa in 2015-16 so far.

Next: 10-6

Oct 15, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) and Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Trevor Daley (6) battle for the puck in the first period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

10. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington Capitals (23 years old)

Kuznetsov was a late first round pick taken 26th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft out of Chelyabinsk Traktor in the KHL. The Capitals have always been known for liking their Russian players so there was always a risk taking Kuznetsov. After spending over three 1/2 years in the KHL, and being regarded as one of the best players outside the NHL, he finally made his NHL debut in 2013-14, producing 9 points in 17 games with Washington.

In 2014-15, Kuznetsov saw vast improvements on both sides of the puck, while putting up a decent 37 points in 80 regular season games. He also had seven points in 14 playoff games last year. We’re just starting to scratch the surface with this young Russian, as he has a very high ceiling yet to be reached. Kuznetsov has already seen added responsibility in 2015-16 and has five points in five games to start things off.

9. Jaden Schwartz, St.Louis Blues (23 years old)

Schwartz was drafted 14th overall at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft after a productive season in 2009-10 with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL. He went on to play a couple seasons of NCAA hockey at Colorado College, and ended up appearing in seven games with the Blues in 2011-12 collecting three points. During the lockout shortened season, he appeared in 33 games for AHL Peoria, tallying 19 points. He then went on to appear in 45 of 48 games for St.Louis but only accumulated 13 points his rookie season.

In 2013-14, after securing a top-six spot Schwartz scored 56 points in 80 games. Last year in 2014-15, he saw a little more ice-time and increased his totals to 63 points in 75 games. Already in 2015-16, Jaden has four points in seven games and looks poised for another breakout season. He’s a bit of an unsung hero in St.Louis with the spotlight up front being on Tarasenko. This kid is just going to continue getting better as young guys like Robby Fabbri and Ivan Barbashev develop around him.

Sep 25, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames left wing Johnny Gaudreau (13) skates with the puck against the Vancouver Canucks during the overtime period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

8. Johnny Gaudreau, Calgary Flames (22 years old)

Gaudreau was a fourth round steal in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft after a 72 point campaign with Dubuque of the USHL. He spent the next three seasons at Boston College scoring 44 points in 44 games in 2011-12. He increased his totals to 51 points in 35 games in 2012-13. He had his biggest year in 2013-14, when he put up 80 points in 40 games with Boston College.

In a memorable rookie season in 2014-15 playing alongside Sean Monahan and Jiri Hudler, Gaudreau put up 64 points in 80 games. He shows no signs of slowing down in his sophomore season tallying seven points in six games for a slow-starting Flames squad. Monahan and Gaudreau make up one of the most exciting duo’s in the NHL, but have been hampered with nothing but a second or third line quality winger.

7. Jonathan Huberdeau, Florida Panthers (22 years old)

Taken third overall at the 2011 NHL entry draft, Huberdeau was a human highlight reel over his junior career. He also had some incredible performances on the international stage for team Canada. The Panthers were fortunate when guys like Barkov and Huberdeau fell into their laps. Both were can’t miss prospects.

Huberdeau first appeared during the lockout shortened season producing 31 points in 48 games, which was good enough for the Calder Trophy in 2012-13. After falling victim to the sophomore slump scoring a dismal 28 points in 69 games, Jonathan bounced back in 2014-15 with 54 points in 79 games. After learning from a future hall-of-famer in Jaromir Jagr this season, Huberdeau and Barkov can move forward together continuing to build their chemistry. You don’t hear much about the Florida Panthers, but they’ve got a couple budding stars up front, with a future Norris winner on the back-end.

Sep 29, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan Mackinnon (29) skates up the ice against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Flames won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

6. Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche (20 years old)

Taken first overall by the Avalanche at the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, MacKinnon scored 63 points as an 18 year old his rookie season in 2013-14, and also added a (+20) rating. MacKinnon also had 10 points in seven playoff games with Colorado, all good enough to earn him the Calder Trophy. In 2014-15, MacKinnon hit a brick wall falling victim to the dreaded sophomore slump, which saw him produce just 34 points in 64 games with a (-7) rating.

Nathan took a lot of heat last season for his digression in play, but he’s not the only player on our list to experience the sophomore slump. The arrival of rookie Mikko Rantanen in 2015-16 has allowed for coach Patrick Roy to juggle his lines a bit, currently with Alex Tanguay on the top-line alongside Gabriel Landeskog and Nathan MacKinnon. The lines have worked so far, but it would be nice to see the top-line get a better linemate than an agining veteran in Alex Tanguay. MacKinnon has six points in six games this season.

Next: 5-1

Oct 12, 2015; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Jack Eichel (15) during the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

5. Jack Eichel, Buffalo Sabres (18 years old)

Buffalo seemed pretty disappointed when they took the best odds into the lottery draft and walked away with the second pick. They were humble throughout the process, being optimistic about their “consolation prize”. Scouts knew the former Hobey Baker award winner was a talented prospect, but I’m not sure anyone expected Jack Eichel to be the Buffalo Sabres best player from the beginning.

It’s not a knock on guys like Ryan O’Reilly, Evander Kane, or Tyler Ennis, but Eichel has been that good. He’s averaging close to 20 minutes of ice-time per game this season, and has two goals in six games already. He’s not tearing up the stats sheet just yet, but he’s an incredibly dynamic player to watch. Eichel has some nifty stick-handling skills, and is a strong skater with excellent acceleration to give him break-away speed.

Oct 14, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Ryan Johansen (19) against the Ottawa Senators at Nationwide Arena. The Senators won 7-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

4. Ryan Johansen, Columbus Blue Jackets (23 years old)

Taken fourth overall at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft from the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL. Johansen played a significant role on the international stage for Team Canada at the World Juniors in 2010-11, producing nine points in seven games. Johansen had 96 points for the Winterhawks in his last season in the WHL. He had a bit of quiet rookie season in 2011-12 scoring 21 points in 67 games for Columbus.

Ryan spent the lockout shortened season with AHL Springfield putting up 33 points in 40 contests before playing in 40 games for the Blue Jackets producing 12 points. In 2013-14, Johansen earned a bigger more expanded role which helped him explode for 63 points in 2013-14. He also added six points in six playoff games before an early departure from the playoffs. Ryan Johansen and Nick Foligno each had a massive year in 2014-15 playing together, as Foligno scored 73 points, while Johansen tallied 71. In seven games so far with the winless Blue Jackets, Ryan has six points.

Oct 15, 2015; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) skates against the St. Louis Blues at Rexall Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

3. Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers (18 years old)

Different words are used to describe the 2015 first overall pick, such as “phenom”, “superstar”, “generational talent”. It’s not often we see players of Connor McDavid’s caliber, as the Crosby-like players don’t come around very often. He’s a kid that has been on scouts radar since he was a young teenager. It’s not a knock on Jack Eichel, but Connor McDavid is slightly more talented with a likely higher ceiling for production. The race will be closer than some think as the years progress, as this could turn in to the next Crosby vs Ovechkin type debate.

McDavid missed some time due to injury in 2014-15 with Erie of the OHL, but managed to produce 120 points in 47 games upon return. That’s an mind-boggling 2.55 points per game in the regular season, followed by 49 points in 20 playoff games (2.45 points per game). It was a bit of a slow start to his rookie campaign in 2015-16, but he’s looked much more comfortable the past few games. McDavid now has six points in seven games to open the season. We’re already starting to see how Connor McDavid can take over a game. With some improved defense and a healthy Jordan Eberle, Edmonton could still make its presence felt in the Western Conference this season. When you’ve got Connor McDavid as a buiding block to your team, there’s hope to turning around a struggling franchise.

Oct 13, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars center Tyler Seguin (91) waits for the referees to review a goal call during the third period against the Edmonton Oilers at the American Airlines Center. The Stars defeat the Oilers 4-2. Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

2. Tyler Seguin, Dallas Stars (23 years old)

The second overall pick by the Boston Bruins in 2010 already has a bit of an interesting story to begin his career. Seguin was thought by some scouts and experts to have been the best player available in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. The microscope that had ultimately been placed on Taylor Hall throughout his junior career was likely a major factor in Edmonton selecting him first instead of Seguin. Boston ended up being the benefactor of a terrible trade on part of the Maple Leafs at the beginning of 2009-10. Toronto traded their 2010 first and second round picks, plus their 2011 first rounder for Phil Kessel. Those picks ended up being Tyler Seguin, Jared Knight, and Dougie Hamilton.

Tyler Seguin had a somewhat quiet rookie season scoring 22 points in 74 games, but did follow it up with a nice playoff performance of seven points in 13 games. He had a terrific sophomore season with 67 points in 81 games, along with three points in seven playoff games. After spending some time over in Switzerland during the lockout shortened season, Seguin appeared in all 48 games for Boston producing 32 points. It was a bit of an interesting season that called Seguin’s character into question after some off-ice issues, which resulted in a trade. Boston sent Tyler Seguin, Ryan Button, and Rich Peverley to Dallas for Reilly Smith, Joe Morrow, Matt Fraser, and Loui Eriksson.

Seguin proceeded to stick it to Boston following the trade with 84 points in 2013-14 playing alongside Jamie Benn. In 2014-15, Tyler had 77 points in 71 games with the Stars. Seguin and Benn have evolved into one of the elite top-line duo’s in all of hockey. It’s early into 2015-16, but new addition Patrick Sharp has been seeing top-line minutes alongside the Stars dynamic duo showing good chemistry. Tyler Seguin already has 10 points in six games this season, and could easily compete for the Art Ross this season.

Oct 15, 2015; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; St. Louis Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko (91) skates against the Edmonton Oilers at Rexall Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

1. Vladimir Tarasenko, St.Louis Blues (23 years old)

Drafted 16th overall in the first round at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft out of Novosibirsk in the KHL. He spent four 1/2 seasons between Novosibirsk and St.Petersburg SKA before finally making the jump to North America to join the Blues during the lockout shortened campaign in 2012-13. He scored 19 points in 38 games while taking some time to get adjusted to the new North American style of play.

Tarasenko got adjusted fairly quickly and exceeded expectations in 2013-14 when he put up 43 points in 64 games, followed up with four goals in six games during the Blues short playoff run. In 2014-15, Vladimir Tarasenko assumed the role of Blues best player by producing 73 points in 77 games. He added six goals and one assist in six playoff games during another disappointing early exit for St.Louis in the playoffs.

Vladimir Tarasenko is a supremely talented young superstar in the NHL who has that rare ability to take over a game. He did it recently in a contest versus a hot Winnipeg squad carrying them to a 4-2 victory with a two goal performance. Surprisingly enough, he’s done this all with Alex Steen as his linemate. Vladimir is a fast explosive skater with beautiful puck-handling skills that have ultimately led to some self-created highlight reel goals. He’s also got a terrific shot that he can get it off in a hurry.

Tarasenko is much more than just a potent goal-scorer, proving he can be one of the league’s elite playmakers as well. He makes good smart passes, and possesses an extremely high hockey IQ. The best example already in 2015-16 was Steen’s goal in a recent game vs Vancouver during a 4-3 win for St.Louis. Tarasenko received a pass from Paul Stastny around the high slot in between the circles, and without looking made a tap one-timer redirection pass to Steen on the left side, leaving little hope for Ryan Miller or the Canucks defender. In 2015-16 Tarasenko has five goals and four assists in seven games. Consider this young man another solid candidate to compete for the Art Ross Trophy this season. Imagine this guy’s numbers when Robby Fabbri and Ivan Barbashev make their impacts on the NHL.

Next: NHL Power Rankings: Early 2015-16

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