Welcome to The Athletic’s 2024-25 edition of the NHL Pipeline Rankings, where we take a deep dive into the future of the NHL, team by team.
Every team in the league will have a ranking assigned to them, along with a detailed write-up and tool grades of the top young players in their organization. These rankings provide a projection of what is expected from each player as they continue to develop and grow. The core groups of prospects from each team are then ranked from 1 to 32, showcasing how each team’s pipeline compares to the rest of the league.
Player eligibility for these rankings is determined by age. A player must be 22 years old or younger as of Sept. 15, 2024, in order to be considered for the rankings. This criteria includes almost every prospect selected between the 2020 and 2024 NHL drafts. The intention is to highlight a team’s top prospects without prematurely graduating players who still have plenty of development years ahead of them, even if they have already made their NHL debut. While this method may result in the inclusion of established NHL stars, it may also lead to the omission of players still in the minors who are on the cusp of breaking into the league. As with any prospect ranking, there is no perfect method for determining player eligibility. This approach has been favored after exploring various options, but different preferences may exist.
As we delve into the rankings, it is important to note the latest updates in the hockey world. Various teams have made significant moves during the off-season, reshaping their rosters and prospects. These changes will undoubtedly have an impact on the pipeline rankings and the future outlook of each organization.
In addition to the rankings and player evaluations, we also provide insights and analysis from industry experts and insiders. Their perspectives shed light on the potential of these young players and how they might contribute to their respective teams in the years to come.
Join us as we explore the exciting world of NHL prospects and dive deep into the future stars of the league. Stay tuned for updates, interviews, and in-depth analysis as we uncover the next generation of hockey talent.
And remember, it’s not just about where these players are now, but where they have the potential to go. As one scout eloquently put it, “These young players have the ability to shape the future of the NHL, and it’s up to us to nurture and guide them along the way.”
