NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Forwards Under 25-Years-Old

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Forwards Under 25-Years-Old

The first of three in a series of NHL player power rankings.  This week’s countdown will feature the top players under 25-years-old.  Today’s focus is the “Top 100 Forwards Under 25”.

Keep posted throughout the week as we introduce “Top 50 Defenseman Under 25“, and “Top 20 Goalies Under 25“.  Once posted, we’ll come back and link our countdown’s together.

Requirements:

For inclusion, players need to have played in at least one regular season game in 2015-16.  Younger prospects with limited or no NHL experience are excluded from the countdown.  We’ll track those players at a later date in our prospect countdown.  Birthday cut-off is February 23rd, 1991 (1991-02-23).

Honorable Mentions:

Casey Cizikas, New York Islanders (24 years old) 1991-02-27
Jacob Josefson, New Jersey Devils (24 years old) 1991-03-02
Byron Froese, Toronto Maple Leafs (24 years old) 1991-03-12
Sergey Kalinin, New Jersey Devils (24 years old) 1991-03-17
Anton Lander, Edmonton Oilers (24 years old) 1991-04-24
Andy Andreoff, Los Angeles Kings (24 years old) 1991-05-17
Landon Ferraro, Boston Bruins (24 years old) 1991-08-08
Iiro Pakarinen, Edmonton Oilers (24 years old) 1991-08-25
Beau Bennett, Pittsburgh Penguins (24 years old) 1991-11-27
Austin Watson, Nashville Predators (24 years old) 1992-01-13
Jason Zucker, Minnesota Wild (24 years old) 1992-01-16
Stanislav Galiev, Washington Capitals (24 years old) 1992-01-17
Quinton Howden, Florida Panthers (24 years old) 1992-01-21

Markus Granlund, Vancouver Canucks (22 years old) 1993-04-16

Stefan Matteau, New Jersey Devils (21 years old) 1994-02-23
Scott Laughton, Philadelphia Flyers (21 years old) 1994-05-30
Chris Tierney, San Jose Sharks (21 years old) 1994-07-01
Andrew Copp, Winnipeg Jets (21 years old) 1994-07-08

These NHL player power rankings are based on talent level that we’ve seen to date.  It’s worth remembering that rankings of NHL youth have a tendency to change rather dramatically.  Just take a look at our “Under 25 Series” from earlier in the season. We’ve had a large handful of players since celebrate their 25th birthday.  We’ve decided to expand our list to a larger group for each position.  Look for an updated list at the conclusion of 2015-16.

Next: Top 100 Forwards Under 25

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (90-81)

90. Nick Shore, Los Angeles Kings (23 years old) 1992-09-26

Taken 82nd overall from the University of Denver back in 2011, Shore began his pro career with AHL Manchester back in 2013-14. He split time between Los Angeles and Manchester in 2014-15, producing 42 points in 38 games in the AHL. He also put up seven points in 34 NHL games. He had a productive playoff run with Manchester, tallying 18 points in 19 games. His performance last season made him a virtual lock for the big club heading into 2015-16. He’s got nine points in 52 games so far. If he can find a way to add some weight to that 6’1 frame (and use it), Shore will have a long productive career.

89. Dmitrij Jaskin, St.Louis Blues (22 years old) 1993-03-23

This 6’2 196lbs Russian winger was selected 41st overall back in 2011. His stock soared following his draft year when he made the jump to North America joining QMJHL’s Moncton Wildcats for the 2012-13 season. He put up 99 points in 51 games. He battled injuries early in his NHL career – and, is just now starting to shake that label. He’s split time between the AHL and NHL in each year over the last three seasons. In 2015-16, Jaskin underwhelmed with 10 points in 49 games, forcing a recent demotion to AHL Chicago.

88. Linden Vey, Vancouver Canucks (24 years old) 1991-07-17

Vey was originally taken 96th overall by the Los Angeles Kings back in 2009.

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He was a highly productive junior player for WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers. After three solid seasons with the Kings AHL affiliate, he finally got his first taste of NHL action back in 2013-14.

Vey was traded to Vancouver the following summer for a 2nd round pick. He put up 24 points in 75 games in 2014-15 with the Canucks. After a disappointing training camp in 2015-16, Linden Vey began the season with AHL Utica. He’s since re-joined Vancouver where he has nine points in 23 games.

87. Teemu Pulkkinen, Detroit Red Wings (24 years old) 1992-01-02

Another one of Detroit’s draft gems, Pulkkinen was selected 111th overall back in 2011 for Finland’s SM-Liiga (Jokerit Helsinki). He’s paid his dues over the past couple season down in Grand Rapids. He had 59 points in 71 games back in 2013-14, followed by 61 points in 46 games in 2014-15 before Detroit gave him a 31-game stint – producing eight points. He opened 2015-16 with Detroit, only appearing in 30 games this season (12 points) because he seems to be the odd-man out as a healthy scratch.

86. Jesper Fast, New York Rangers (24 years old) 1991-12-02

This Swedish-born winger was selected 157th overall back in 2010. He spent the next three seasons playing for SHL’s (Swedish Elite League) HV71. He spent 2013-14 and 2014-15 split between AHL Hartford and New York before earning a full-time roster spot in 2015-16. No matter where Fast was playing, he showed improvement in his game year-after-year. With 21 points in 56 games so far, Fast has developed into a decent two-way forward.

85. Jake Virtanen, Vancouver Canucks (19 years old) 1996-08-17

At 6’1 208lbs, Jake was taken 6th overall in 2014 from WHL’s Calgary Hitmen. He spent one year in junior before cracking the NHL roster as a 19-year-old in 2015-16. It was a rough start to his rookie season, as he struggled to stay in the lineup. He was eventually loaned to Team Canada for the World Juniors in hopes that he’d find more consistency in his game. It seemed to work, as he’s been a much better player since his return.

84. Matthew Nieto, San Jose Sharks (23 years old) 1992-11-05

Taken 47th overall back in 2011 from Boston University, Nieto went to have a productive college career with 102 points in 115 games. This skilled undersized winger (5’11 190lbs) made the immediate jump to the NHL in 2013-14, producing 24 points in 66 games. He followed that up with 27 points in 72 games last season. It was expected his numbers would climb once again in 2015-16, but it’s a disappointing season so far with 15 points in 54 games.

83. Adam Lowry, Winnipeg Jets (22 years old) 1993-03-29

At 6’5 210lbs, Lowry was selected 67th overall back in 2011 from WHL’s Swift Current Broncos. After one year of AHL service in 2013-14 (33 pts in 64 games), Adam Lowry earned full-time NHL duties in 2014-15. He appeared in 80 games as a rookie, racking up 23 points. He’s got 12 points in 50 games in 2015-16 – and is developing into a quality role player for the Jets. He’s a gritty power forward with a bit of offensive touch.

82. Tom Wilson, Washington Capitals (21 years old) 1994-03-29

At 6’4 215lbs, Wilson is developing into one of the NHL’s fiercest opponents to line up next to. Whether you want to call him a grinder, power forward, or anything along those lines – all tags apply to this tough customer. He was taken 16th overall back in 2012, and has accumulated triple-digits in penalty minutes his last five seasons (three in the NHL, two in the OHL). He’s even found a way to be more productive in 2015-16 with 18 points in 57 games so far.

81. Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Ottawa Senators (23 years old) 1992-11-11

Taken 96th overall back in 2011, Pageau has spent the last three seasons splitting time between Binghampton and Ottawa. At 5’10 180lbs, his size can be an issue at times. He’s got great potential if he can learn to be stronger on the puck. He’s finally earned full-time NHL duties in 2015-16, and has 25 points in 60 games so far.

Next: 80-71

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (80-71)

80. Mikhail Grigorenko, Colorado Avalanche (21 years old) 1994-05-16

Originally selected 12th overall by Buffalo back in 2012, Grigorenko was packaged with Nikita Zadorov last summer and shipped to Colorado in exchange for Ryan O’Reilly. He split his first full year of pro in 2014-15 between Rochester and Buffalo. He’s got 18 points in 53 games so far with Colorado in his first year of full-time NHL duties. He’s showing development in his defensive game, but there’s still something left to be desired offensively based on his skill-set.

79. Jared McCann, Vancouver Canucks (19 years old) 1996-05-31

The second of two 1st round picks back in 2014 (the other Jake Virtanen), McCann was taken 24th overall. After producing 81 points in 56 games with OHL’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in 2014-15, McCann made the immediate jump to the NHL as a 19-year-old in 2015-16, joining fellow 2014 1st rounder Jake Virtanen. The pair struggled to stay in the lineup at the beginning of the year but are both showing improvement as the season progresses. He has 13 points in 49 games so far.

78. Alexander Burmistrov, Winnipeg Jets (24 years old) 1991-10-21

Taken 8th overall back in 2010 from OHL’s Barrie Colts, Burmistrov showed a lot of promise as a rookie with the Atlanta Thrashers in 2010-11 as an 18-year-old (20 pts in 74 games). He increased his totals in 2011-12 with Winnipeg, producing 28 points in 76 games. After producing 10 points in 44 games during the lockout shortened season in 2012-13, Burmistrov left the NHL to join Kazan Ak-Bars in the KHL – where he played the next two seasons. He made the jump back to Winnipeg in 2015-16, and has 11 points in 57 games so far.

77. Brett Connolly, Boston Bruins (23 years old) 1992-05-02

This former Team Canada World Junior standout was selected 6th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning back in 2010.

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He spent his first three seasons of pro bouncing back and forth between Syracuse and Tampa Bay. He never seemed to pan out, and was eventually traded to Boston back in March 2015 for a pair of 2nd round draft picks. He had a promising five-game stint in 2014-15 with the Bruins, tallying two points in five games. Earning a full-time NHL spot in 2015-16, Connolly has 22 points in 56 games so far.

The big 6’2 193lbs winger is developing slowly, but there’s potential for more moving forward.

76. Brandon Pirri, Florida Panthers (24 years old) 1991-04-10

This Toronto-born player was selected 59th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks out of Ontario’s Provincial A League (Georgetown Raiders). He played one year of college hockey following his draft year before joining AHL Rockford in 2010-11, where he put up 43 points as a rookie. He continued to show promise in 2011-12 with 56 points in 66 games of AHL action – which also led to a 5-game NHL stint with Chicago. Still failing to crack the NHL roster in 2012-13 (lockout shortened season) Pirri put up an impressive 75 points with AHL Rockford. He never did pan out with the Blackhawks, eventually leading to a trade that sent him to Florida for a pair of draft picks back in March 2014. He had 14 points in 21 games with the Panthers following the trade. Injuries derailed his 2014-15 campaign, which saw him tally 24 points in 49 games. It’s been an up-and-down season for Pirri in 2015-16 with 24 points in 52 games so far.

75. Tomas Jurco, Detroit Red Wings (23 years old) 1992-12-28

Born in Slovakia, Jurco was selected 35th overall back in 2011 from QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs. He began his pro career with Grand Rapids in 2012-13, showing progression over the next season and a half, eventually leading to his NHL debut and 36-game stint in 2013-14. He put up 15 points over that span, earning him full-time duties the next season. He only put up 18 points in 63 games, and a theme that continued into 2015-16 – and eventually his demotion to Grand Rapids. He put up an impressive nine points in five games, prompting his recall. Six points in 36 games still leaves a lot to be desired for a player with his skill-set.

74. Zemgus Girgensons, Buffalo Sabres (22 years old) 1994-01-05

At 6’1 203lbs, Girgensons was selected 14th overall back in 2012 from USHL’s Dubuque Fighting Saints. The Latvian-born player made headlines in 2014-15 when his native homeland took it upon themselves to stuff the All-Star ballot box in attempts for his inclusion. He had 22 points in 70 games as a rookie back in 2013-14, and saw a slight increase to 30 points in 2014-15. Recently in a top line role, Grigorenko has 19 points in 54 games so far in 2015-16. The Ryan O’Reilly trade is only now starting to somewhat pay off.

73. Vladislav Namestnikov, Tampa Bay Lightning (23 years old) 1992-11-22

He was selected 27th overall back in 2011 from OHL’s London Knights. At 5’11 180lbs, Namestnikov is developing into a decent playmaker, showing progression each year. After tallying 35 points in 34 games with Syracuse in 2014-15, Vladislav got the nod with the big club – appearing in 43 games, producing 16 points. He earned a full-time NHL roster spot to open 2015-16, and has 27 points in 57 games so far.

72. Calle Jarnkrok, Nashville Predators (24 years old) 1991-09-25

He was skating for SHL’s (Swedish Elite League) Brynas IF Gavle when Detroit selected him 51st overall back in 2010. He spent the next three seasons in Sweden before starting his North American pro career in 2013-14 – joining AHL Grand Rapids. After producing 36 points in 57 games, Jarnkrok was traded along with Patrick Eaves to Nashville in exchange for David Legwand. Following the trade, he joined AHL Milwaukee, producing nine points in six games – which quickly prompted his NHL debut. He put up nine points in the 12-game stint, leading to a full-time NHL roster spot in 2014-15. Jarnkrok only put up 18 points in 74 games as a rookie, but is showing improvement in 2015-16 with 19 points in 58 games so far. He’s also seeing an increase in ice-time this season.

71. Andrew Shaw, Chicago Blackhawks (24 years old) 1991-07-20

Here’s another guy very similar to Washington’s Tom Wilson, with Shaw getting the edge in offensive upside. A fierce opponent – he doesn’t rack up as many penalty minutes as Wilson. He was selected in the 5th round in 2011, and was a prototypical power forward in the OHL (Niagara/Owen Sound). He earned full-time NHL duties after a half season of pro experience, and has been an integral role player for the Blackhawks over the past few years. Shaw even managed a 20-goal season back in 2013-14. He’s usually good for the 30-point range on average.

Next: 70-61

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (70-61)

70. Valeri Nichushkin, Dallas Stars (20 years old) 1995-03-04

After being selected 10th overall back in 2013, Nichushkin went on to earn a roster spot as an 18-year-old rookie. He showed a lot of promise in his first year with 34 points in 79 games. He took a step back in year two, dealing with injuries that kept him out most of 2014-15. The hopes heading into 2015-16 was that Nichushkin would claim that top spot on the right-wing alongside Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin. The trio was together for a brief period of time and showed some excellent chemistry. He’s a supremely talented Russian power forward, but struggles with consistency. If he can find some, he’s capable of the 50-60 point range.

69. Alexander Wennberg, Columbus Blue Jackets (21 years old) 1994-09-22

He was selected 14th overall back in 2013 out of Sweden. After spending one more year overseas, Wennberg made the jump to North America in 2014-15. He spent much of the season with the Blue Jackets, showing promise – producing 20 points in 68 games. He was expected to assume a larger role heading into 2015-16. GM Jarmo Kekalainen‘s vote of confidence in Boone Jenner and Alex Wennberg was made public following the Ryan Johansen deal, proclaiming the pair capable of replacing Johansen. He has 22 points in 47 games so far in 2015-16.

68. Mattias Janmark, Dallas Stars (23 years old) 1992-12-08

He was originally a draft pick of the Detroit Red Wings, selected in the 3rd round back in 2013.

After spending a couple of years in Europe (Sweden), Janmark was traded at last year’s trade deadline (March 2015) in a deal for Erik Cole. After making the jump to North America in 2015-16, Mattias Janmark was a surprise to claim a roster spot out of training camp.

The 22-year-old rookie was in the top 10 Calder Trophy conversation during the first half, but his production has since slowed. He’s still got 24 points in 60 games this season.

67. Cody Eakin, Dallas Stars (24 years old) 1991-05-24

Scored 19 goals, adding 21 helpers largely in a third-line center role during 2014-15. Playing alongside Ales Hemsky and rookie Mattias Janmark on the third line to open the season – he’s more recently spent time with Antoine Roussel. Eakin has 11 goals and 14 assists in 60 games. Eakin is an underrated player hidden beneath some bigger names in a smaller hockey market.

66. Curtis Lazar, Ottawa Senators (21 years old) 1995-02-02

Selected 17th overall back in 2013 from WHL’s Edmonton Oil Kings, Lazar’s productivity has spiked each year over his past five seasons. He had 31 points in his WHL rookie season, and followed that up with 61 points his draft year, and increase his total to 76 his last year of junior. He made the immediate jump to the NHL in 2014-15, tallying 15 points in 67 games. He’s seen a slight increase this season with 16 points in 55 games so far. The Ottawa Senators have a wealth of talent up the middle – so once that clears up, he should step into a larger role.

65. Rickard Rakell, Anaheim Ducks (22 years old) 1993-05-05

Selected 30th overall back in 2011, this Swedish-born winger was a point per game player in the OHL. He had a productive first year of pro with AHL Norfolk in 2013-14, leading to an 18-game stint with Anaheim. He spent most of 2014-15 with Anaheim, producing 31 points in 71 games in a bottom six role. He’s seeing more time in the top six in 2015-16, including time on the top line with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. The extra ice-time has resulted in a significant increase in points – Rakell has 33 points in 55 games so far.

64. Kevin Hayes, New York Rangers (23 years old) 1992-05-08

Brother of Boston’s Jimmy Hayes, Kevin was selected 24th overall back in 2010 by the Chicago Blackhawks. The actual pick used to draft Hayes was originally from New Jersey. It was originally traded to Atlanta as part of the Ilya Kovalchuk trade. That 1st was later traded to Chicago as part of the deal that brought Dustin Byfuglien to the then Atlanta Thrashers. Hayes never did sign his entry-level contract, and hit the open market as a prized college hockey free agent out of Boston College. He signed with the Rangers in August 2014.

63. Brock Nelson, New York Islanders (24 years old) 1991-10-15

Neslon was selected 30th overall back in 2010. He spent the next two years playing for the University of North Dakota, before starting his pro career with AHL Bridgeport in 2012-13. He spent the entire lock-out shortened season with Bridgeport, accumulating 52 points in 66 games. His AHL performance earned him full-time NHL duties the next season, putting up 26 points in 72 games as a rookie back in 2013-14. He joined the 20-goal club in 2014-15, producing 42 points in 82 games. He continues to perform in 2015-16, already with 21 goals (33 points) in 57 games.

62. Riley Sheahan, Detroit Red Wings (24 years old) 1991-12-07

Born in St.Catherines, Ontario, Sheahan was selected 21st overall back in 2010 from the University of Notre Dame. He began his pro career back in 2012-13 with AHL Grand Rapids, producing 36 points in 72 games. He split the next season (2013-14) between Grand Rapids and Detroit. His stint with the Red Wings went particularly well, producing 24 points in 42 games. He continued to show improvement in 2014-15 with 36 points in 79 games. He’s taken a step back in 2015-16 with 13 points in 59 games so far. For a 6’3 222lbs center, Sheahan has work to do in his defensive game.

61. David Pastrnak, Boston Bruins (19 years old) 1996-05-25

Making the team as an 18-year-old last season after having a spectacular training camp, Pastrnak saw time between the AHL and with Boston in 2014-15. He was expected to step into a larger role in 2015-16, but ran into health issues. He was eventually loaned to Team Czech Republic for the World Juniors, which seemed to rejuvenate him. He’s since earned a top six role in Boston.

Next: 60-51

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (60-51)

60. Nikolaj Ehlers, Winnipeg Jets (20 years old) 1996-02-14

Taken 9th overall back in 2014, this talented Danish winger was expected to crack the Jets roster as a 19-year old in 2015-16 – even more, he was expected to challenge the likes of Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel for Calder Trophy consideration. He’s not quite in the top 5 or maybe even top 10 conversation, but that’s due to this year’s incredible class of rookies. Ehlers first season in the NHL is a success thus far, producing 26 points in 58 games, and seeing time lately on the top line. At 6’0 172lbs, the two-time 100 plus point producer for QMJHL’s Halifax Mooseheads has a very bright future in the NHL.

59. Bo Horvat, Vancouver Canucks (20 years old) 1995-04-05

He was selected 9th overall back in 2013, and cracked the Canucks roster as a 19-year-old in 2014-15. A player who prides himself as a two-way center, responsible in his own-end is an astonishing -30 in 2015-16. Horvat is a talented forward who plays with high-intensity. He possesses several of those competitive intangibles that you can’t teach. He’s seen an increase in point totals since his 25-point rookie season – Horvat has 26 points in 59 games so far. This kid will be a gem for the Canucks moving forward.

58. J.T. Miller, New York Rangers (22 years old) 1993-03-14

Miller was a highly touted American prospect from the U.S. National Development Team, selected 15th overall back in 2011.

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He made the move to major junior the following season, putting up 62 points in 61 games of OHL action in 2011-12. After a productive half season of pro experience with AHL Connecticut, Miller got the call-up and saw 26 games with the Rangers in 2012-13 (lock-out shortened season). He split the 2013-14 campaign between New York and Connecticut, producing six points in 30 games of NHL action. He played 18 more AHL games in 2014-15, but spent the majority of time with the big club, compiling 23 points in 58 games for the Rangers. He’s since began his first year of full-time duties in 2015-16, and has 34 points in 59 games so far – and continues to see an increased role.

57. Teuvo Teravainen, Chicago Blackhawks (21 years old) 1994-09-11

He was selected 18th overall back in 2012 after sliding down the draft as one of the top European ranked skaters. He was a highly productive player with Jokerit Helsinki of the SM-Liiga (Finnish Elite League), and shined on the international stage at the World Juniors. He made the jump to North America at the end of 2013-14, playing three games for Chicago, and five for AHL Rockford. He split time between the AHL and NHL in his first full season of pro hockey in 2014-15. He tallied 25 points in 39 games with Rockford, and had nine points in 34 games with Chicago. Teravainen assumed full-time NHL duties in 2015-16. After a slow first half, he’s starting to see more ice-time, and now has 25 points in 58 games.

56. Andre Burakovsky, Washington Capitals (21 years old) 1995-02-09

Taken 23rd overall back in 2013, Burakovsky had 22 points in 53 games in 2014-15 during his rookie season with the Capitals. The Austrian is an offensively gifted player who was expected to take hold of a top-six role in 2015-16. It was a slow-start to the season, but he’s starting to shine of late – now with 28 points in 55 games.

55. Victor Rask, Carolina Hurricanes (22 years old) 1993-03-01

If it wasn’t for Victor Rask, there’d be little conversation regarding the availability of Eric Staal – likely because he’d be extended already. Rask is quietly developing into one of the NHL’s better two-way centers in their early 20s. He was originally taken 42nd overall back in 2011 out of Sweden. Rask wanted to acclimate himself to the North American style play, joining WHL’s Calgary Hitman for the next two seasons. He joined AHL Charlotte in 2013-14, showing a lot of promise with 39 points in 76 games. He earned full-time NHL duties in 2014-15, racking up 33 points in 80 games as a rookie. Rask continues to see an increase in points in 2015-16 with 36 points in 58 games so far. It’s his abilities in his own-end that deserve the most credit though.

54. Tobias Rieder, Arizona Coyotes (23 years old) 1993-01-10

A point per game player during his last two seasons of junior with OHL’s Kitchener Rangers, Rieder was selected in the 4th round in 2011 by the Edmonton Oilers. He was traded back in March 2013 to Arizona (Phoenix at the time) for Kale Kessy (who?) before ever starting his pro career. He joined Coyotes AHL affiliate in Portland in 2013-14 and put up an impressive 48 points in 64 games as an AHL rookie. He spent most of 2014-15 with Arizona, producing 21 points in 72 games in his first NHL season. Rieder has doubled his point per game pace in 2015-16, as one of the Coyotes standout players. This 5’11 185lbs German winger should be the benefactor of playing alongside some extremely talented prospects in the years to come.

53. Nino Niederreiter, Minnesota Wild (23 years old) 1992-09-08

This 6’2 210lbs Swiss winger was a prolific goal-scorer in junior for WHL’s Portland Winterhawks. He was also a standout for Switzerland on the international stage during the World Juniors. Niederreiter was eventually drafted 5th overall by the New York Islanders back in 2010. Never panning out on Long Island, Niederreiter was eventually traded to Minnesota after a productive season with AHL Bridgeport (50 points in 74 games) in exchange for Cal Clutterbuck and a 3rd round pick. The change of scenery paid immediate dividends to Minnesota in 2013-14 – he had 36 points in 81 games. He only increased that total by one to 37 in 2014-15, but went from 14 to 24 goals. He’s been one of Minnesota’s bright spots of late, and has 29 points in 59 games so far.

52. Oscar Lindberg, New York Rangers (24 years old) 1991-10-29

Originally taken by the Arizona (Phoenix) Coyotes 57th overall back in 2010, Lindberg was traded to New York in May 2011 for Ethan Werek (who?). After producing 56 points in 73 games with Hartford in the AHL last season, there was speculation he could steal a roster spot heading into 2015-16. He did that, and then some being among the secondary names in the Calder Trophy conversation.

51. Reilly Smith, Florida Panthers (24 years old) 1991-04-01

This 6’0 185lbs Toronto-born winger was selected 69th overall back in 2009 by the Dallas Stars. He spent the next three years playing college hockey at Miami (Ohio) University scoring well above a point per game pace. After a three-game stint with Dallas following his college career in 2011-12, he began his pro career in 2012-13 (lock-out shortened season). He produced 35 points in 45 games for AHL Texas. He went to appear in 37 of 48 games for Dallas that season, tallying nine points as a rookie. The following summer, Smith was just one of several pieces involved in the Tyler Seguin deal, sending him to Boston. He put up 20 goals and 31 assists for the Bruins in 2013-14, including five points in 12 playoff games. Smith followed that up 13 goals and 27 assists last season (2014-15). His digression in play resulting in him being traded last summer to Florida for Jimmy Hayes.

Next: 50-41

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (50-41)

50. Boone Jenner, Columbus Blue Jackets (22 years old) 1993-06-15

He was selected 37th overall back in 2011 from OHL’s Oshawa Generals – where he was a point per game player throughout his junior career. He’s always been somewhat of a playmaker, with the ability to put the puck in the net – but he’s best described as a two-way center. His ability to play in his own end, and create offense is what made it easier for GM Jarmo Kekalainen to trade Ryan Johansen. He expects one of Jenner or Wennberg to assume top line duties. Jenner produced 29 points as a rookie back in 2013-14, and had 17 points in an injury-shortened 31-game season in 2014-15. He’s taken the next step this year, and has 19 goals and 13 assists (32 points) in 59 games so far.

49. Elias Lindholm, Carolina Hurricanes (21 years old) 1994-12-02

Taken 5th overall back in 2013, Lindholm broke into the NHL with 21 points in his rookie season (2013-14) as an 18-year-old, followed up by 39 points last season. Lindholm has the potential to break the 50 point barrier, but only has 28 points in 60 games so far in 2015-16. He could be in line for an expanded role with the potential departure of Eric Staal.

48. Anthony Duclair, Arizona Coyotes (20 years old) 1995-08-26

He was originally selected 80th overall back in 2013 by the New York Rangers.

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The third round pick’s prospect stock soared in 2013-14 after putting up 99 points in 59 games with QMJHL’s Quebec Ramparts. He opened the 2014-15 season with New York as a 19-year-old, but was eventually leant to Team Canada for the World Juniors – and then ultimately sent back to junior for the remainder of the season. Duclair was traded at last year’s NHL trade deadline to Arizona as part of the Keith Yandle deal.

Joining fellow rookie Max Domi in 2015-16, the pair have combined to be Calder Trophy candidates. They’re not playing together at even-strength, but have seen lots of time together on the powerplay. With 33 points in 57 games, the Coyotes are giving us a sneak peek into the future. Add Dylan Strome, Brendan Perlini, Christian Dvorak, or Christian Fischer – Arizona is a dangerous team in years to come.

47. Charlie Coyle, Minnesota Wild (23 years old) 1992-03-02

Coyle was originally taken 28th overall by the San Jose Sharks in 2010. He was traded to Minnesota in 2011 along with Devin Setoguchi in exchange for Brent Burns. He spent the next year and a half at Boston University before opting to leave college hockey mid-year to join QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs. He put up 38 points over the remaining 23 regular season games, and followed that up with 34 points in 17 games during the playoffs. Coyle played his NHL rookie season in 2012-13 (lock-out shortened season), producing 14 points in 37 games. He produced 30 points in 70 games in 2013-14, followed by 35 points in 82 games in 2014-15. While his point production didn’t increase, we saw major development in his defensive game. Now in 2015-16, Coyle has 18 goals and 13 assists in 59 games this season.

46. Ryan Spooner, Boston Bruins (24 years old) 1992-01-30

At 5’10 184lbs, Spooner is a tad undersized for an NHL center – but makes up for it with his excellent offensive skill-set. He was selected 45th overall back in 2010, and was a point per game player in the OHL. He played his first year of pro hockey during the lock-out shortened season in 2012-13, producing 57 points in 59 games as a rookie with Providence. He also saw four games with the Bruins. In 2013-14, Spooner split time between Providence and Boston. He had 46 points in 49 games of AHL action, adding 11 assists in 23 games during his NHL stint. He once again spent time between the AHL and NHL in 2014-15. Spooner tallied 28 points in 34 games with Providence, adding 18 points in 29 games with Boston – essentially securing his roster spot for 2015-16. It’s been a breakout season this year for Spooner with 40 points in 58 games already.

45. Vincent Trocheck, Florida Panthers (22 years old) 1993-07-11

Selected 64th overall in 2011, Trocheck’s stock rose the following two seasons scoring well above a point per game pace in the OHL. He joined AHL San Antonio in 2013-14 for his first year of pro hockey, tallying 42 points as an AHL rookie. He even enjoyed a 20-game, 8-point stint with the Panthers. He played 23 more games for San Antonio in 2014-15 before joining Florida full-time – 22 points in 50 games. He’s showing vast improvement in 2015-16, and continues to build on his point totals with 36 points in 59 games so far.

44. Tomas Hertl, San Jose Sharks (22 years old) 1993-11-12

Hertl was a highly touted European skater of the Czech men’s league in 2012, eventually selected 17th overall. He spent one more year in the Czech Republic before making the jump to North America in 2014-15, immediately cracking the NHL roster. For those that remember, Hertl was leading the NHL scoring at one point near the beginning – he also had that memorable four-goal performance. A season cut short due to injury, Hertl had 25 points in 37 games as a rookie. He felt victim to the sophomore slump in 2014-15, only producing 31 points in 82 games. As expected, he’s rebounded in his third year, and has 31 points in 57 games so far.

43. Nail Yakupov, Edmonton Oilers (22 years old) 1993-10-06

Yakupov had a productive rookie season in 2012-13 during the lockout shortened season, as he put up 31 points in 48 games. He followed that up with 24 points in 2013-14, and 33 points in 2014-15. He’s battled injuries in 2015-16, and only has 15 points in 38 games. It’s unclear if Yakupov has a future with the Oilers, but if he can find that chemistry from earlier in the season with Connor McDavid, the trade rumors can be put to rest.

42. Robby Fabbri, St.Louis Blues (20 years old) 1996-01-22

Fabbri was selected 21st overall back in 2014 after putting up 87 points in 58 games with OHL’s Guelph Storm. He almost cracked the Blues roster as an 18-year-old, but eventually re-joined his junior club. Fabbri went on to tally 51 points in 30 games in his last year of junior. Largely expected to make the Blues out of training camp, some experts had Robby Fabbri pegged as a Calder Trophy candidate. 26 points in 55 games certainly puts him in the conversation.

41. Mark Scheifele, Winnipeg Jets (22 years old) 1993-03-15

He was selected 7th overall back in 2011 from OHL’s Barrie Colts – where he produced above a point per game the previous season. After an impressive training camp as an 18-year-old, Scheifele earned a seven-game tryout to open the 2011-12 NHL season. He went sent back to Barrie, and produced 63 points in 47 games. He only saw four games with Winnipeg during the 2012-13 lock-out shortened season, but had 79 points in 45 games with the Barrie Colts. Earning full-time NHL duties in 2013-14, Scheifele put up 34 points in 63 games. He followed that up with 49 points in 82 games last season. So far in 2015-16, Mark Scheifele has 29 points in 47 games. Developing into a quality two-way center, there’s something left to be desired in his offensive game.

Next: 40-31

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (40-31)

40. Tanner Pearson, Los Angeles Kings (23 years old) 1992-08-10

Pearson went undrafted as an 18-year-old after a disappointing 42-point season with OHL’s Barrie Colts in 2010-11. He more than doubled that total in 2011-12 with 91 points – prompting the LA Kings to draft the overage prospect. Pearson joined Kings AHL affiliate in Manchester in 2012-13, producing 47 points in 64 games in his AHL rookie season. He split 2013-14 between Manchester and Los Angeles – producing 32 points in 41 AHL games, adding seven points of NHL action. Injuries derailed his first year of full-time NHL duties, only appearing in 42 games, tallying 16 points. Staying healthy in 2015-16, Pearson has 23 points in 56 games as part of the Kings top six unit.

39. Mikael Granlund, Minnesota Wild (23 years old) 1992-02-26

Heading into his fourth season in 2015-16, fans and experts were calling for Granlund to shoot more after eight goals and 33 assists in 2013-14, and eight goals and 31 assists in 2014-15. That hasn’t happened. He’s got six goals and 25 assists so far in 2015-16, and in turn Minnesota’s hole up the middle has been severely exposed – even with Mikko Koivu having a resurgence.

38. Chris Kreider, New York Rangers (24 years old) 1991-04-30

Kreider has been a big producer in the regular season and playoffs in the past two seasons in New York. With the departure of Carl Hagelin and Martin St.Louis last summer, an opportunity opened for an expanded role in 2015-16. It’s been an up-and-down season so far, but he has 28 points 56 games.

37. Brayden Schenn, Philadelphia Flyers (24 years old) 1991-08-22

Younger brother of Luke, Brayden was taken 5th overall back in 2009 from WHL’s Brandon Wheat Kings.

He was a standout WHL star producing well over a point per game pace, also representing Team Canada on the international stage at the World Juniors. Schenn was eventually traded to Philadelphia in June 2011 along with Wayne Simmonds in exchange for Mike Richards and Rob Bordson (who?). Brayden has seen a gradual increase in point totals over the last three seasons. He had 41 points in 2013-14, followed by 47 in 2014-15, and has 36 points in 56 games so far this season – on pace for approximately 50 points.

36. Ryan Strome, New York Islanders (22 years old) 1993-07-11

The former 5th overall pick from 2011 had a breakout season for the Islanders in 2014-15 putting up 50 points. After starting the year playing alongside John Tavares, Strome was sent (loaned) to Bridgeport for a short conditioning stint after a slow start in 2015-16. Since returning, Strome looks like a different player – and now has 23 points in 46 games.

35. Sam Reinhart, Buffalo Sabres (20 years old) 1995-11-06

He was selected 2nd overall in 2014 after producing a 105-point season for WHL’s Kootenay Ice. Some scouts had him pegged as the top talent of the 2014 draft class. After enjoying a nine-game stint to open the 2014-15 NHL regular season, Reinhart was demoted back to junior, where he produced 65 points in 47 games. Heading into 2015-16, it was easy to forget about Sam Reinhart with new arrivals Jack Eichel, Evander Kane, and Ryan O’Reilly in the mix. It was a slow-start to his campaign, but he’s put things together in the second half, and continues to see increased ice-time. He’s now got 27 points in 57 games, essentially putting himself in the Calder Trophy conversation.

34. Nick Bjugstad, Florida Panthers (23 years old) 1992-07-17

At 6’6 218lbs, Bjugstad is the prototypical NHL power forward – and he loves to use the body. After being selected 19th overall back in 2010, Bjugstad joined the University of Minnesota for the next three seasons as he grew into that large frame. He eventually joined the Panthers in 2013-14, tallying 38 points in 76 games as a rookie. Bjugstad followed that up with an impressive sophomore season of 24 goals and 19 assists (43 points) in 72 games. Already in 2015-16, he has 10 goals and 10 assists in 44 games – although he missed some time due to injury. A tough rugged forward, Bjugstad can easily be a 20-goal scorer moving forward, and has the potential for 30-plus.

33. Jonathan Drouin, Tampa Bay Lightning (20 years old) 1995-03-28

Hopes were that the 2013 third overall pick would have developed a little quicker. Holder of 100+ point seasons 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. Frustrations boiled over in 2015-16, with Drouin going public about his trade request. After being sent to Syracuse for two games, Drouin left the team and has since been skating in Montreal (close to home) until a trade can be made.

32. Sam Bennett, Calgary Flames (19 years old) 1996-06-20

He was selected 4th overall in 2014 after an impressive OHL season with the Kingston Frontenacs, tallying 91 points. He wasn’t pegged as a top five pick heading into his draft year, but continued to climb boards as the year progressed. He missed a lot of time due to injury last season (2014-15) only suiting up for 11 OHL games (24 points). He got a late NHL call-up, and Bennett had a nice stint with Calgary during their playoff run last year tallying four points in 11 games. Still considered a rookie in 2015-16, Bennett has come alive in the second half, now with 29 points in 57 games, making an argument to put his name in the Calder conversation.

31. Tyler Toffoli, Los Angeles Kings (23 years old) 1992-04-24

He was selected 47th overall back in 2010 from OHL’s Ottawa 67’s. 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 24 goals and 19 assists in 58 games so far in 2015-16.

Next: 30-21

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (30-21)

30. Sean Couturier, Philadelphia Flyers (23 years old) 1992-12-07

His critics say he plays too defensive, and sacrifices a little too much offensive in the process. After producing 37 points in 2014-15, Couturier was hoping to prove he could add to the scoresheet in 2015-16. He was off to a great start with 24 points in 40 games before going down with a long-term injury. He did enough in his 40-game stint to quiet his critics, at least for now.

29. Alex Galchenyuk, Montreal Canadiens (22 years old) 1994-02-12

This 6’2 205lbs center was drafted third overall at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by Montreal.

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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. After starting 2015-16 as the 2nd line center, Galchenyuk is spending a lot of time on the left side once again. He’s one of the bright spots for Montreal through their epic collapse. He has 34 points in 59 games so far.

28. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Edmonton Oilers (22 years old) 1993-04-12

Taken 1st overall back in 2011, RNH was the unanimous number one among scouts – whether you’d do it differently now or not. This 6’0 189lbs center had an impressive rookie campaign, posting 52 points in 62 games. He fell victim to the sophomore slump back in 2012-13 (lock-out shortened season) with 24 points in 40 games. He slightly increased his point per game rate in 2013-14 with 56 points in 80 games. He matched that point total in 76 games in 2014-15. He had 30 points in 46 games in 2015-16 before he was to an injury blocking a puck with his hand. Rumors are swirling about regarding RNH’s future in Edmonton. Emerging teenagers Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are beginning to squeeze Ryan Nugent-Hopkins out of the picture. Not your prototypical 1st overall pick – RNH was part of a very weak draft class. He’s best suited in a second-line role on a good team, with a ceiling in the 50-70 point range. Due to his injury, there’s no rush to move him before the trade deadline – suggesting this move will come closer to the draft or in the offseason.

27. Gabriel Landeskog, Colorado Avalanche (23 years old) 1992-11-23

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 in 2013-14, but Colorado is hoping to see more on the scoresheet from their young captain. 39 points in 58 games so far in 2015-16 puts him on pace for 54 points this season. He’s widely regarded as an excellent leader, and great person in the dressing room.

26. Ondrej Palat, Tampa Bay Lightning (24 years old) 1991-03-28

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 of 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. It’s been a very disappointing season for Palat in 2015-16, with 18 points in 39 games.

25. Evander Kane, Buffalo Sabres (24 years old) 1991-08-02

Selected 4th overall by the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009, Evander was a CHL standout for the WHL’s Vancouver Giants – he even represented Team Canada on the international stage at the World Juniors. After six years with the Thrashers/Jets, Kane was traded at last year’s deadline along with Zach Bogosian in exchange for Tyler Myers and Drew Stafford. The talented young forward’s character was constantly being called into question, so Winnipeg decided to rid themselves of their problem child. He opted for shoulder surgery around the time of the trade, never suiting up for the Buffalo Sabres in 2014-15. After a fairly quiet start to the season with no questions of Kane’s character, the forward recently missed a team practice after spending the weekend in Toronto at the NBA All-Star game. Kane has 16 goals and nine assists (25 points) in 49 games so far.

24. Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers (20 years old) 1995-10-27

Largely consider a bang-or-bust type prospect, Edmonton selected the German center 3rd overall from WHL’s Prince Albert Raiders. He received much criticism from scouts about his inconsistencies and compete level. Draisatil was a virtual ghost among an extremely weak Team Germany during the World Juniors. Playing for Kelowna in 2014-15, Draisaitl was eventually given his NHL opportunity, producing nine points in 37 games with Edmonton. After a disappointing training camp, Draisaitl began 2015-16 with AHL Bakersfield – but, injuries forced his call-up. Since that time, he’s been one of Edmonton’s best players, and one of the NHL’s best breakout stories of the year. He’s got 42 points in 50 games so far.

23. Jeff Skinner, Carolina Hurricanes (23 years old) 1992-05-16

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. Appearing in all 60 games this season, now 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. He’s still put up an impressive 21 goals, 14 assists (35 points) so far in 2015-16.

22. Filip Forsberg, Nashville Predators (21 years old) 1994-08-13

Hard to believe that 10 teams passed on this kid 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. It doesn’t seem he’ll match his point total from last season, but 39 points in 59 games is still decent production. He’ll need to step it up and be a point per game player in the playoffs for Nashville to make a deep run.

21. Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers (20 years old) 1995-09-02

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 of years of NHL experience, Barkov has taken over leadership control along with Jonathan Huberdeau and both are being depended upon to play major roles moving forward. Having a full season alongside future Hall-of-Famer Jaromir Jagr is a significant learning experience for the Panthers duo, as they can learn from one of the best when it comes to preparation and dedication to the game. He missed a bit of time in 2015-16, but has still managed to produce 35 points in 43 games for the Atlantic leading Panthers.

Next: 20-16

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (20-16)

20. Max Domi, Arizona Coyotes (20 years old) 1995-03-02

Son of former NHL enforcer and Leafs fan favorite, Tie Domi, Max was selected 12th overall from OHL’s London Knights. He shares a similar frame to his father (5’10 198lbs), but the two play nothing alike. Max is an impressively gifted winger with a high-grade offensive skill-set. He managed 32 goals, 70 assists (102 points) during his last year of junior – and was a standout for Team Canada on the international stage at the World Juniors alongside fellow teammate Anthony Duclair. He joined Arizona in 2015-16, and continues to be among the rookie leaders in scoring. He’s in the same conversation as Panarin, Eichel, Larkin, McDavid, and Gostisbehere.

19. Brandon Saad, Columbus Blue Jackets (23 years old) 1992-10-27

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, Saad has 37 points in 58 games playing on the Blue Jackets top line.

18. Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (22 years old) 1993-06-17

A 2011 second round steal by the Lightning has developed into one of the core players for this young team.

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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. With 49 points in 58 games in 2015-16, Kucherov is on pace for 69 points.

17. Sean Monahan, Calgary Flames (21 years old) 1994-10-12

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. Calgary neglected to address their 1RW hole in 2015-16 – instead plugging temporary pieces such as Hudler and Jones in once again. It was a slow-start for the talented duo, but Gaudreau got back on track in December. Monahan still has a respectable 39 points in 57 games so far.

16. Jaden Schwartz, St.Louis Blues (23 years old) 1992-06-25

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 of 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. In 2015-16, Jaden had four points in seven games before going down with a long-term injury. Since his return, Schwartz has 10 points in 13 games. He’s a bit of an unsung hero in St.Louis with the spotlight on Vladimir Tarasenko. This kid is just going to continue getting better as young guys like Robby Fabbri and Ivan Barbashev develop around him.

Next: 15-11

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (15-11)

15. Brendan Gallagher, Montreal Canadiens (23 years old) 1992-05-06

Whether you refer to him as an “agitator” or “pest”, Gallagher is undersized 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 32 points in 42 games in 2015-16, but missed time around Christmas due to injury.

14. Mark Stone, Ottawa Senators (23 years old) 1992-05-13

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. Starting 2015-16 off slow, it seemed Mark Stone was suffering from the dreaded sophomore slump. He’s started to produce more as the season progressed, and now has 43 points in 58 games.

13. Jack Eichel, Buffalo Sabres (19 years old) 1996-10-28

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 one the Buffalo Sabres best players from the beginning.

He’s been logging close to 20 minutes of ice-time on average all season long, but his point production was slow out of the gates. He’s put together an excellent second half so far, and now has 41 points in 60 games. He’s definitely in the conversation for Calder Trophy winner. Eichel has some nifty stick-handling skills, and is a strong skater with excellent acceleration that gives him break-away speed.

12. Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red Wings (19 years old) 1996-07-30

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 continues to impress as a rookie, cementing himself in the conversation for the Calder Trophy. Larkin is quickly developing into the next great two-way center, hovering around the league lead in plus minus all season. 39 points in 58 games isn’t too shabby either.

11. Artemi Panarin, Chicago Blackhawks (24 years old) 1991-10-30

Panarin was born October 30th, 1991 in Korkino, Russia. He joined the KHL as a 17-year-old around the time the NHL began losing players to the KHL. This is about the time the Russian-factor came into effect (a fear of drafting Russian players because of the risk of never seeing them). Even though Panarin represented Team Russia at the World Juniors, and was one of the bright spots in the roster – he still managed to go undrafted. He spent the next number of years playing in the KHL before exploding for 62 points in 54 games for SKA St.Petersburg in 2014-15. The Chicago Blackhawks signed him in April 2015. He’s since making a strong argument as Calder Trophy winner in 2015-16 with 57 points in 60 games. Alongside Patrick Kane, and fellow Russian Artem Anisimov, the trio have combined to be the most dangerous line in the NHL this season.

Next: 10-6

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (10-6)

10. Mika Zibanejad, Ottawa Senators (22 years old) 1993-04-18

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. His defensive game has developed so much in 2015-16 that he’s starting to make a case for his name in the Selke Conversation moving forward for years to come.

9. Ryan Johansen, Nashville Predators (23 years old) 1992-07-31

Taken fourth overall at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft from the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL.

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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. After a rough start for the Blue Jackets in 2015-16, Johansen was eventually traded to Nashville in exchange for Seth Jones. Prior to the trade, he had 26 points in 38 games – but since has 16 points in 19 games for the playoff bound Nashville Predators.

8. Jonathan Huberdeau, Florida Panthers (22 years old) 1993-06-04

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 an important learning experience 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 in Aaron Ekblad.

7. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington Capitals (23 years old) 1992-05-19

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 and a half 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. The 23-year-old Russian is quickly emerging into one of the NHL’s top offensive threats with 60 points in 57 games for the NHL leading Washington Capitals in 2015-16.

6. Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche (20 years old) 1995-09-01

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 a sophomore slump. As expected, MacKinnon bounced back in 2015-16 with 44 points in 61 game so far – one of the few bright spots on an underachieving Avalanche squad that just recently began putting wins together.

Next: 5-1

NHL Player Power Rankings: Top 100 Under 25 (5-1)

5. Taylor Hall, Edmonton Oilers (24 years old) 1991-11-14

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. Next to Connor McDavid, Hall is showing us why he’s the second most important player to the Edmonton Oilers in 2015-16. He has 52 points in 60 games, producing with anyone amongst the Oilers constant line shuffling.

4. Johnny Gaudreau, Calgary Flames (22 years old) 1993-08-13

Gaudreau was a fourth round steal in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft after a 72 point campaign with Dubuque of the USHL.

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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 – going on to capture the Hobey Baker Award.

In a memorable rookie season in 2014-15 playing alongside Sean Monahan and Jiri Hudler, Gaudreau put up 64 points in 80 games. After a slow start to 2015-16, Gaudreau caught fire in December, and now has 57 points in 57 games. Monahan and Gaudreau make up one of the most exciting duo’s in the NHL, but are hampered with nothing but second or third line quality wingers.

3. Vladimir Tarasenko, St.Louis Blues (24 years old) 1991-12-13

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’s 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. He currently sits 14th in scoring with 54 points in 60 games, which is pretty impressive when you consider the number of significant injuries the Blues have suffered in 2015-16. He’s seen a recent increase in production playing alongside Jaden Schwartz upon his return from long-term injury.

2. Tyler Seguin, Dallas Stars (24 years old) 1992-01-31

The second overall pick by the Boston Bruins in 2010 already has a storied career already. 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. The pair sit 2-3 in NHL scoring, and have for much of the season before Seguin trailed off a bit in January. He still has 65 points in 60 games in 2015-16.

1. Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers (19 years old) 1997-01-13

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 more talented with a 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 took him a few games at the beginning of the year to find his groove, but eventually came around. He was scoring just below a point per game pace before going down with a long-term shoulder injury that kept him out until after the All-Star Break.

He’s scoring at a torrid pace since his return, now up to 27 points in 23 games – forcing some experts to ask the question, “How many points does McDavid have to put up to win the Calder Trophy?”

Next: 2016 World Cup of Hockey: Preview, Projected Rosters

Rookie season aside, Connor McDavid is a special player.  If anyone can challenge the NHL Great’s and break all-time records, it’s him.  It should be a long storied career for the phenom as he helps drag the Edmonton Oilers out of the NHL’s basement – and, hopefully build a dynasty reminiscent of the glory years of the 1980s.