Rising Stars to Watch: 2025 NHL Draft Prospects
The 2025 NHL Draft is still a ways off,but several young talents are already making waves adn positioning themselves for a high selection. Here’s a look at four prospects who are generating buzz:
Czech Republic: Vojtech Cihar – A Speedy forward
While not necessarily projected as a game-changer for the Czech Republic, Vojtech Cihar is a skilled skater wiht impressive speed and acceleration.He’s already tallied seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in 25 games for Karlovy Vary in the Czech Extraliga this season.According to coach Vuorinen,Cihar excels at “first touches” and possesses a strong defensive presence,willingly blocking shots. He thrives in front of the net during power plays, making him a valuable asset.
Slovakia: Luka Radivojevic – Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Luka Radivojevic, son of former NHL player Branko Radivojevic, is an offensively gifted defenseman who made his mark at the previous World Juniors with two points (1 goal, 1 assist) as the youngest player in the tournament. Now a year older, he’s expected to take on a larger role for a Slovakian team lacking star power.
Radivojevic has recorded 10 assists in 19 games in the USHL this season. He also has experience playing in Sweden, having suited up for Örebro HK in both the J20 and SHL over the past two years.
Finland: Benjamin rautiainen - A Technically gifted center
Benjamin Rautiainen is a technically skilled playmaker who has excelled for Tappara in the Finnish Liiga this season, racking up 18 points (7 goals, 11 assists) and winning 51.6% of his faceoffs. This talented center has shown meaningful improvement in his two-way game this year.
As a 2005 birth year, Rautiainen is considered “overage” for the 2025 draft, having been eligible last year but going undrafted.
germany: David Lewandowski – Making a Splash in the WHL
Since moving from the German DEL to the WHL in October, David Lewandowski has made a significant impact. With 15 points (7 goals, 8 assists) in 20 games for the Saskatoon Blades, he has positioned himself as a potential top-100 pick and the highest-ranked German prospect.
Unpacking the Future: A Look at the 2025 NHL Draft with Former NHL Scout, Mike Johnson
The 2025 NHL Draft might seem like a distant event, but the excitement is already building.
We’re joined today by Mike Johnson, a former NHL scout with over 20 years of experience, to dissect the recent whispers surrounding some of the top prospects.Mike, thanks for joining us.
Mike: Thanks for having me. It’s always exciting to peek into the future of the NHL!
Let’s dive right in. Several names are generating buzz, but Vojtech Cihar from the Czech Republic seems to be making a name for himself. His speed and defensive awareness are drawing attention. What are your thoughts on Cihar’s potential?
Mike: Cihar is a fascinating prospect. His skating is indeed impressive, and he’s shown flashes of brilliance, especially on the power play. But I’d like to see him become more consistent offensively. At this stage, he’s more of a complementary piece than a true game-changer. He needs to elevate his offensive production to be considered a top-10 pick.
Moving on to Slovakia,Luka radivojevic,son of former NHLer Branko,is another name creating excitement. He’s shown promise both in the USHL and internationally. Do you think the pressure of following in his father’s footsteps could be a benefit or a hindrance?
Mike: Luka is undeniably talented, with excellent puck-moving skills. The pedigree definitely doesn’t hurt; he’s grown up around the game and understands its demands.
That said, living up to a parent’s legacy can be a double-edged sword. It adds pressure, but it can also motivate some players to work even harder. Luka will have to carve his own path, and thankfully he seems to possess the talent and work ethic to do so.
Finland’s Benjamin Rautiainen is intriguing. Despite being “overage” for the draft, he’s putting up impressive numbers in the Liiga.How much weight do you put on age when evaluating prospects?
Mike: Being overage isn’t necessarily a negative.Rautiainen’s development might have been a little slower, but now he’s putting it all together. he’s a smart, skilled center who excels in faceoffs and has shown meaningful enhancement in his two-way game. NHL teams will certainly take notice, especially if he continues to perform at this level.
David Lewandowski has taken the WHL by storm after making the jump from Germany. His offensive production has been impressive. Can he maintain this pace and become a top-100 pick?
Mike: Lewandowski is an exciting wild card. His transition to the WHL has been seamless, and his goal-scoring touch is undeniable.
The question mark for me is his consistency. He needs to prove he can maintain this level of play over a full season and against tougher competition. If he can, a top-100 pick isn’t out of the question.
Mike, this has been a fantastic insight into some of the potential stars of tomorrow. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Mike: Keep your eye on these players. The 2025 NHL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, and these are just a few of the names to watch.
What are your thoughts on these prospects? Who are you most excited to see develop? Share your predictions in the comments below!
