Minor Hockey Talks - Hockey Forum

Is Matthew Schaefer the real deal or is the hype train getting ahead of itself? FCHockey has him ranked #1 in their Winter 2025 NHL Draft rankings, leapfrogging James Hagens. Schaefer's performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup certainly turned heads, but is it enough to solidify him as the top prospect? Let's hear your take. Is his two-way game truly elite, or are we overvaluing his international success?

Speaking of Hagens, how much weight should we put on NCAA freshman performance? He's putting up points at Boston College, but does it translate to NHL potential as effectively as OHL production? The World Juniors will be a key battleground for these two. Who do you see coming out on top?

Porter Martone's scoring prowess is undeniable. Can he maintain this pace and challenge the top two? He's a power forward with skill, a combination NHL teams crave. Could he be a dark horse for first overall?

Michael Misa’s jump to fourth is intriguing. Leading the OHL in scoring is impressive, but is he a product of his linemates, or a true game-changer? Where do you see him fitting in the overall draft picture?

Finally, the goaltending discussion. Joshua Ravensbergen has overtaken Jack Ivankovic as FCHockey's top-ranked goalie. Is this justified? How much emphasis should be placed on goaltending prospects at this stage, and which goalie do you believe has the highest ceiling?

Share your thoughts, predictions, and insights! Let's debate the future of these prospects!