1. Connor McDavid, C – Erie Otters (OHL)
Game-changing ability anytime he steps on the ice. As expected, he got better as the world juniors went on since he was just returning from a broken hand, but delivered several exquisite goals. Vision and hockey IQ some of the best ever.
2. Jack Eichel, C – Boston University Terriers (Hockey East)
Was it fair to make an 18-year-old captain of Team USA? That’s a debate point for another time. But Eichel’s resume is still incredible in the NCAA. Playing against older, stronger competition he has used his shot, speed and playmaking to wreck the field.
3. Noah Hanifin, D – Boston College Eagles (Hockey East)
A 17-year-old making an impact on a major college program’s blueline is pretty rare, but that’s Hanifin, who also played at the world juniors for Team USA. Fast, well-built and incredibly poised, Hanifin is everything an NHL team wants in a defenseman.
4. Dylan Strome, C – Erie Otters (OHL)
With McDavid out of the lineup, Strome proved he is in no way protected by his teammate. The big, smart center scored 12 points in the first seven games of McDavid’s injury and Strome currently sits second in Ontario League scoring with 72 points in just 39 games.
5. Mathew Barzal, C – Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)
Out since November with a knee injury, it would be easy to knock Barzal down simply because he’s been out of the spotlight. But he’s still a known talent, with excellent playmaking abilities and vision; that won’t disappear when he returns.
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