The 2025 Memorial Cup is set to be a thrilling showcase of the best young hockey talent, with several future NHL stars taking center stage. This year’s tournament features a mix of elite forwards, top-tier defensemen, and dynamic playmakers who are poised to make an impact in the NHL as early as next season. Here’s a detailed look at the top prospects to watch, broken down by team:

London Knights (OHL)

• Easton Cowan (Toronto Maple Leafs): Cowan has been a standout performer, setting the playoff scoring record for the Knights. His aggressive style and high-end skill make him a player to watch.
• Kasper Halttunen (San Jose Sharks): The OHL playoff MVP, Halttunen’s NHL-ready shot and ability to score from distance make him a top offensive threat.
• Sam O’Reilly (Edmonton Oilers): A two-way center, O’Reilly excels in shutting down opponents’ top players while contributing offensively.
• Sam Dickinson (San Jose Sharks): Known for his offensive prowess, Dickinson is projected to be a top-pair NHL defenseman.
• Oliver Bonk (Philadelphia Flyers): A steady, defense-first player, Bonk is relied upon to handle the toughest matchups.

Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

• Cayden Lindstrom (Columbus Blue Jackets): After missing a year due to injury, Lindstrom is looking to make a strong comeback and lead his team to victory.
• Gavin McKenna (2026 Draft Prospect): Widely regarded as one of the best players outside the NHL, McKenna’s offensive abilities are second to none.
• Ryder Ritchie (Minnesota Wild): A dual-threat offensive talent, Ritchie has rounded into form and will be a key contributor for the Tigers.
• Andrew Basha (Calgary Flames): A dynamic playmaker, Basha’s speed and scoring ability make him a constant threat.
• Tanner Molendyk (Nashville Predators): An elite two-way defenseman, Molendyk’s ability to neutralize top players will be crucial.

Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL)

• Mathieu Cataford (Vegas Golden Knights): A well-rounded forward, Cataford’s ability to drive transition play will be key for Rimouski.
• Jacob Mathieu (Undrafted Free Agent): The leading point producer in the QMJHL playoffs, Mathieu is looking to earn an NHL contract.
• Spencer Gill (Philadelphia Flyers): A physical defenseman, Gill’s return from injury could be a game-changer for Rimouski.

Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

• Caleb Desnoyers (2025 Draft Prospect): An excellent two-way player, Desnoyers has the chance to solidify his draft stock with a strong performance.
• Gabe Smith (Utah Mammoth): A power forward, Smith’s physical presence and net-front ability make him a tough opponent.
• Juraj Pekarcik (St. Louis Blues): A smart and fast player, Pekarcik’s ability to read defenses will be crucial for Moncton.
• Etienne Morin (Calgary Flames): A catalyst from the blue line, Morin’s ability to quarterback the power play will be a key factor.

This year’s Memorial Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a glimpse into the future of the NHL. With so much talent on display, every game promises to be a spectacle of skill, determination, and the relentless pursuit of hockey glory.