The 2027 NHL Draft class is a long ways away.
But those youngsters can still open eyes well in advance of their draft day with a strong performance at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Here are a few members of the 2027 draft class to keep an eye on:
Dominick Byrtus | D | Czechia
Dominick Byrtus, who had nine points (three goals, six assists) in 47 games on Czechia’s U20 circuit, is a fast, fluid-skating defenseman who can make an impact all over the ice. His speed and agility let him close gaps quickly and shut down rushes with ease. He’s also got some flash to his game, showing off dynamic puck-carrying skills and smooth breakouts. Whether it’s cutting to the net to shake a forechecker or using quick, powerful crossovers to explode into open ice, he’s constantly creating opportunities. Byrtus isn’t shy about jumping into the play, and his skating helps drive transitions and keep opponents on their heels. With his mix of speed, mobility, and confidence with the puck, he’s got all the tools to stand out against top competition and make a name for himself.
Landon DuPont | D | Canada
Landon DuPont, who had 60 points (17 goals, 43 assists) in 64 games with Everett of the Western Hockey League, was named Canadian Hockey League rookie of the year, and is the front-runner to be the No. 1 pick in 2027, is a dynamic defenseman who drives offense and controls play with maturity beyond his years. His explosive skating, quick directional changes, and constant motion allow him to escape pressure, create clean breakouts, and join the rush for odd-man chances. In the offensive zone, he blends vision, deception, and precision, using curl-and-drag releases, low shots for tips, and sharp passes to generate scoring opportunities. He manipulates defenders with fakes, maintains balance under contact, and creates advantages through aggressive pinches and smart board-to-middle plays. Defensively, he closes gaps confidently, keeps attacks outside, and disrupts lanes with timely sticks and positioning. With his elite mobility, awareness, and all-situations impact, DuPont stands out as one of the most advanced players in his age group and a legitimate future star.
Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll | C | Team USA
Shaeffer Gordon-Carroll, who had 25 points (six goals, 19 assists) with Medicine Hat in the WHL, brings nonstop energy and great instincts away from the puck, mixing strong puck-retrieving skills with the ability to drive play. He’s got good vision, a solid shot, and just the right amount of edge to keep defenders guessing. He hits the blue line with speed and isn’t afraid to get creative, using slick, manipulative moves to open up space. One of his best moments came when he chased down a defender with a powerful stride, rocked them with a reverse hit, and quickly dished the puck inside for a scoring chance. With his mix of speed, skill, and grit, Gordon-Carroll is always in the middle of the action and has the tools to become an even bigger offensive threat as he refines his game.
Lukas Kachlir | D | Czechia
Lukas Kachlir, who had eight points (one goal, seven assists) in 16 games in Czechia’s U20 league, has speed and strong four-way mobility, allowing him to shake and fake defenders. This makes him a constant threat in the offensive zone, always jumping into the play to create chances. He layers that with a great wrist shot that features a quick, accurate release. He isn’t shy about hitting teammates with hard stretch passes, too. Even though he’s very much on the smaller side of things from a vitals standoint, Kachlir defends tough, sticking close, pushing opponents to the outside, and finishing with solid, determined hits.
Jonah Neuenschwander | RW | Switzerland
Jonah Neuenschwander is a big, fast, playmaking winger with an exciting blend of size, speed, and creativity. His long, powerful stride lets him cover ground quickly, and he uses his vision to make smart, effective passes and set up his teammates. He competes with confidence, showing no hesitation in physical battles and protecting the puck well along the boards. He creates chances with his linemates through quick reads, slick puck movement, and a willingness to try high-impact plays. His ability to sustain possession under pressure and generate quality looks highlights his poise and potential against older, more experienced opponents. Neuenschwander already looks like he belongs at this level, and with his skill set, physical tools, and competitive mindset, he projects as a top prospect capable of dominating his peers as he continues to develop.
Oliver Ozogany | LW | Slovakia
Ozogany is a big, powerful forward with a natural scorer’s touch and the tools to be a real offensive force. He’s got a shoot-first mentality and a heavy, accurate shot that can beat goalies in different ways, whether it’s a quick snap shot in tight or a hard one-timer from the flank. His size is a major asset, letting him protect the puck with ease and win battles along the boards or in front of the net. He plays with strength in the defensive zone too, using his frame to lean on opponents and disrupt plays. While his game is built around finishing, he’s also shown flashes of good passing and decision-making that hint at more offensive layers to come.
Max Penkin | C | Germany
Max Penkin, who had 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) in 41 games in Germany’s top U20 league, is a dynamic scorer who rises to the occasion and delivers when his team needs it most. Granted exceptional status to join the German U-20 league a year early, he plays with physical maturity beyond his years. Big, strong, and fast, Penkin makes an impact against older competition with his blend of skill and physicality. His presence is felt every shift, showing impressive speed and a knack for clutch scoring. With his talent and determination, he stands out as one of Germany’s most promising prospects in years.