With an extensive list of NHL stars nearing retirement, it is time for the “Golden Era” of hockey. Rising stars throughout the league are taking it by storm, making names for themselves through spectacular play and unforgettable moments. The NHL is without a doubt in good hands, as names like Bedard and Celebrini are buzzing through the media. Here is a look at the top 10 up and coming stars for the National Hockey League.

10: Lane Hutson Montreal Canadiens (D, 21)

It’s official, the Candiens are back in the playoffs. The team has officially clinched, and is looking to make some noise in the playoffs. A big piece to their impressive season has been rookie Lane Hudson, who has been bouncing around in the top three for Calder Trophy (rookie of the year) candidates. Hutson’s stats are very unorthodox, as of his 64 points through April, he has scored only six goals. Even more unusual, 31 of his first 55 assists were secondary assists. Montreal, in addition to their current playoff roster, was just able to bring in star prospect Ivan Demidov from his russian team to help with their playoff push. Originally, Demidov’s contract with SKA Saint Petersburg (RUS) did not expire until at least next season.

9: Leo Carlsson Anaheim Ducks (C, 20)

Even at just 20 years old, Carlsson has made his way to the top 6 of Anaheim’s young and talented roster. He generates scoring chances almost every time he takes the ice, and attacks the net to find increased chances in high percentage areas.

Photo credit: McKeen’s Hockey

8: Adam Fantilli Columbus Blue Jackets (C, 20)

While Fantilli hasn’t been lighting the lamp as much as Jackets fans may have been hoping for, his game is still definitely exciting for the future of Columbus. He beats some of the league’s top defenders with ease and creates an immense amount of space with his skating ability. It would not be surprising to see the 20 year old go on a hot streak and start stacking goal after goal on the scoresheet.

 

7: Wyatt Johnston Dallas Stars (C, 21)

Johnston has developed very well, and his style of play has meshed very well with the dominant Dallas squad. He makes numerous game-changing plays per game and creates tough plays with the puck on his stick. His game is highlighted by his ability to run a legit power play and his knack to score goals. 

 

6: Moritz Sider Detroit Red Wings (D, 23)

Sider has made a statement as one of the best young defenders in the league, and is even entering conversations in the league-wide debate. He provides physicality, playmaking, and elite hockey sense to the Wings. He sees the whole ice incredibly well, and he can shovel up passes across nearly the whole rink. Sider may not be what some would consider to be a difference maker on the power play, however his 5 on 5 skills without a doubt make up for anywhere else he lacks.

5: Tim Stützle Ottawa Senators (C, 22)

Stutzle’s incredible 2022-23 campaign almost makes this season look disappointing, which really speaks volumes, as this season is still successful for him so far. He is a well-rounded player, especially on the offensive side of the puck. His skating, combined with his skating skill, is a deadly combo that can very likely be a problem for the league really soon.

 

4: Macklin Celebrini San Jose Sharks (C, 18)

The North Vancouver, British Columbia native was the 1st overall section in the 2024 draft. In his rookie year, he tallied 62 points (24 goals, 38 assists) in his first 66 games played as a pro. Averaging almost a point per game, these are remarkable stats from a teenager on a rebuilding team. The San Jose faithful have a lot to look forward to, with multiple young stars in Celebrini (18), Will Smith (20), and Cam Lund (20). The Sharks are also in a prime position for another first overall section in the 2025 NHL draft, barring more lottery luck.

3: Matvei Michkov Philadelphia Flyers (LW, 20)

Michkov was drafted 7th overall by Philadelphia after many teams passed on him due to many question marks surrounding his career. The main area of concern was his contract with his team in Russia, which was originally not supposed to end until 2026. However, Flyers GM Daniel Briere got his contract terminated early, sending him over to Philly when he was 19. His presence was immediately noticed and has drastically improved the outlook of the rebuilding Philadelphia team.

2: Jack Hughes New Jersey Devils (C, 23) 

Some argue that Jack Hughes is one of the best players in the league. This wasn’t the case in 2019, however, as Jack was considered by many to be a bust and a wasted first overall pick for New Jersey. Hughes has since gone on to showcase his high-end skating, puck skills, and quick-release shot. He put the mediocre Devils team on his back, and now, after a few extra acquisitions and trades, Jersey is putting a target on their back as one of the best teams in the National Hockey League.

1: Connor Bedard Chicago Blackhawks (C, 19)

Bedard has been a difference maker for Chicago since his first ever shift. He had an electric rookie campaign and took home the 2024 Calder Trophy as the first piece of what should be a crowded trophy case. His shot is one of the best that the league has ever seen, and is a threat for all opposing goalies no matter where he is on the offensive side of the blueline. Besides his size, every part of his game is near elite, and people are comparing him to McDavid and even Wayne Gretzky. Hockey fans should expect to hear his name for many years to come.

While some fans may be mourning over the era of names like Crosky, Ovechkin, Lundquist, and many others, there is plenty of reason to get excited about the future of the league. The torch has been passed down to these 10 players, as well as the many other young stars that will soon be the talk of the National Hockey League.