Early Look: Our First 2025 Deep Dive 2027 NHL Mock Draft

While the 2027 NHL Entry Draft remains on a distant horizon, the meticulous process of identifying the next wave of hockey superstars has already begun. The 2009-born class is just starting to showcase its potential in major junior leagues like the OHL and WHL, as well as in top-tier international development programs. Even at this nascent stage, a distinct group of elite talent is separating itself from the pack, commanding the attention of scouts and analysts across the hockey world. This is not merely speculation; it is the foundational analysis that informs every future draft board.

This comprehensive ranking serves as your first in-depth look at the players defining the early conversation for the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. Going beyond simple name recognition, we will dissect the on-ice habits, projectable skills, and developmental trajectories of these future cornerstones. By integrating traditional scouting observations with our proprietary PuckNStick analytics, we offer a multi-faceted view of what makes each prospect a potential first-round talent.

Our objective is to provide a detailed, data-informed baseline for understanding this draft class. We will break down the specific attributes that make players like Porter Martone a dynamic offensive threat and why defensemen such as Ivan Ryabkin and Matthew Schaefer are already viewed as potential top-pairing blueliners. For fans, fantasy managers, and team followers, this guide is your essential starting point for tracking the next generation of NHL difference-makers. Let's delve into the names you need to know.

1. Porter Martone - Forward (Mississauga Steelheads, OHL)

Leading the pack in our 2027 NHL Mock Draft is Porter Martone, a quintessential power forward whose blend of size, skill, and sheer force has scouts unanimously projecting him as the top prize. Playing for the Mississauga Steelheads in the OHL, Martone has established himself as a dominant force, consistently demonstrating why he is considered a potential franchise-altering talent. His game is built on a foundation of physical prowess and elite offensive instincts, making him an incredibly difficult player to contain in all three zones.

At 6’3” and over 200 pounds, Martone already possesses an NHL-ready frame. He uses this size to his advantage, protecting the puck along the boards, driving hard to the net, and winning battles in high-traffic areas. Yet, what separates him from other large prospects is his exceptional puck-handling and a truly lethal shot. He has soft hands in tight spaces and can release the puck with deceptive quickness and pinpoint accuracy, making him a dual threat as both a playmaker and a goal-scorer.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Martone’s development trajectory draws parallels to formidable NHL power forwards like Leon Draisaitl and Mikko Rantanen. Like Draisaitl, he combines a powerful frame with high-end offensive intelligence and puck skills. His profile at the same age is also strikingly similar to Rantanen, who uses his size to create space and generate offence. Scouting reports from top outlets like TSN's Craig Button and The Athletic's Corey Pronman consistently highlight his "pro-style" game, noting his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

“Porter Martone isn't just big; he's a highly skilled, intelligent forward who dictates the play whenever he's on the ice. He has the rare combination of power and finesse that NHL general managers build their teams around.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

The following summary box highlights the foundational metrics that make Martone such an imposing prospect.

These numbers illustrate a player who already has the physical build of a professional and is producing at an elite rate against his peers in a top junior league.

Areas for Continued Development

While Martone’s offensive toolkit is elite, scouts will be monitoring a few key areas as he progresses toward the draft.

• Playmaking Vision: Continuing to refine his ability to read defences and find open teammates will elevate him from a great goal-scorer to a complete offensive driver.
• Defensive Consistency: Ensuring consistent effort and positioning in the defensive zone is crucial for earning top-line minutes at the next level.
• Power Play Production: As he gains more experience, tracking his role and effectiveness on the power play will be a key indicator of his offensive ceiling.

Martone’s combination of physical maturity and offensive talent makes him the clear consensus number one pick in this early look at the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. His progress will be one of the most compelling storylines to follow. For more in-depth analysis on OHL prospects, you can explore detailed profiles like those found in our look at the Leafs' top prospects.

2. Ivan Ryabkin - Defenseman (CSKA Moscow, MHL/KHL)

Challenging for the top spot is Ivan Ryabkin, a supremely talented Russian defenseman whose elite skating and offensive acumen have placed him squarely in the conversation for the best player in the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. Playing within the formidable CSKA Moscow system, Ryabkin displays a level of poise and skill far beyond his years. He is the prototypical modern-era defenceman, capable of controlling the pace of the game from the back end and transitioning the puck with breathtaking efficiency.

Ryabkin’s most captivating attribute is his fluid, four-way mobility. His skating is effortless, allowing him to evade forecheckers, lead the rush, and maintain tight gaps defensively. This mobility is complemented by high-end puck skills and the vision to make creative plays under pressure. He is already showing the ability to quarterback a power play in junior hockey and has even earned practice time with the KHL squad, a testament to how highly the CSKA organization regards his potential.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Ryabkin’s game is frequently compared to some of the NHL’s most dynamic offensive defencemen. His elite skating and ability to generate offence from the blue line are reminiscent of a young Cale Makar, who also dominated at every level with his superior mobility and hockey IQ. The creative flair and offensive upside in his game also draw parallels to a prime Erik Karlsson. Scouts, including those from NHL Central Scouting and prominent Russian hockey insiders like Igor Eronko, rave about his composure and offensive instincts.

“Ivan Ryabkin is a rare breed of defenceman. His skating is so smooth it looks like he’s floating on the ice, and his ability to process the game at high speed gives him a distinct advantage. He has all the tools to become a number one, franchise-defining blueliner.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

Ryabkin’s game is built on a foundation of skill and mobility that projects incredibly well to the faster, more skill-oriented modern NHL. His ability to create offence while logging heavy minutes makes him a coveted prospect for any franchise looking to build its defence corps for the future.

Areas for Continued Development

As Ryabkin matures and faces tougher competition, scouts will be closely evaluating his progression in several key areas.

• Defensive Zone Structure: While his skating helps him recover, continuing to refine his positioning and physicality in his own end will be vital. Perfecting hockey defensive zone coverage will make him a true two-way threat.
• Strength and Physicality: Adding strength to his frame will be necessary to handle the rigours of professional hockey and win more battles against bigger, stronger forwards along the boards.
• KHL Transition: How he adapts to the speed and structure of the KHL will be a major indicator of his NHL readiness. Tracking his ice time and role will be crucial.

Ryabkin possesses the high-end, game-breaking talent that every NHL team covets from the blue line. His development in one of the world's top hockey programs makes him a near-lock for the top three in the 2027 NHL Draft.

3. Matthew Schaefer - Defenseman (Erie Otters, OHL)

Slotting in at number three in our early look at the 2027 NHL Mock Draft is Matthew Schaefer, a dynamic two-way defenceman whose maturity and hockey IQ are already turning heads in the OHL. Playing for the Erie Otters, Schaefer has quickly established himself as a cornerstone player, earning an alternate captaincy as an underager, a rare honour that speaks volumes about his leadership and character. He combines poise and intelligence with high-end skating, making him an incredibly effective and reliable presence on the blue line.

Schaefer's game is defined by his exceptional hockey sense. He reads the play at an elite level in all three zones, allowing him to anticipate opposition attacks and break them up with precise stick work and smart positioning. While not a physically imposing player yet, his fluid, four-way mobility allows him to maintain tight gaps and angle off attackers effectively. Offensively, he is a smooth puck-mover who makes crisp, accurate breakout passes and is beginning to show the confidence to join the rush and create scoring chances.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Schaefer’s calm, cerebral approach and puck-moving capabilities draw comparisons to a modern-day defensive standout like Adam Fox. Like Fox, Schaefer relies on superior intelligence and skating to control the game rather than brute force. His leadership qualities and steady defensive-zone presence are also reminiscent of a veteran like Chris Tanev. Scouting reports from Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino and Future Considerations consistently praise his polish and pro-level habits, highlighting his exceptionally high floor as a prospect.

“Matthew Schaefer is the type of modern defenceman every team covets. His brain is his best asset, and his skating is already at a pro level. He has the foundational tools to become a top-pairing, minute-munching fixture on a contending team.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

Schaefer's ability to seamlessly transition from defence to offence is what makes him such a valuable commodity. He demonstrates the potential to not only shut down the opposition’s best players but also to contribute meaningfully on the scoresheet as his game evolves.

Areas for Continued Development

While Schaefer is already a very complete prospect, scouts will be watching his progression in a few key areas to determine his ultimate ceiling.

• Offensive Production: As he gains confidence, increasing his point totals and becoming a more consistent offensive threat from the blue line will be a key development marker.
• Power Play Quarterbacking: Monitoring his usage and effectiveness on the top power-play unit will be crucial in projecting his offensive upside at the NHL level.
• Physical Strength: Adding strength to his frame will be important for handling the rigours of professional hockey and winning more battles against bigger, stronger forwards.

Schaefer's blend of high-end hockey sense, leadership, and two-way potential makes him a safe and compelling choice at the top of the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. He projects as a future top-pairing defenceman who can be trusted in any situation.

4. Kashawn Aitcheson - Forward (Barrie Colts, OHL)

Breaking into the top five of our 2027 NHL Mock Draft is the dynamic and intelligent two-way forward, Kashawn Aitcheson. Playing for the Barrie Colts in the OHL, Aitcheson has distinguished himself with his elite skating, high-end playmaking, and mature defensive game. He is the type of modern, cerebral centre that NHL teams covet, capable of driving offence at full speed while also neutralizing the opposition's top threats. His game is defined by a blend of pace and hockey sense, making him a constant factor every time he steps over the boards.

Aitcheson's most noticeable attribute is his explosive, multi-directional speed, which allows him to create separation in an instant. He uses this asset to challenge defenders wide, win races to loose pucks, and aggressively backcheck to disrupt plays. Beyond his skating, Aitcheson possesses excellent vision and puck distribution skills, consistently finding teammates in high-danger scoring areas. This combination of speed and smarts makes him a legitimate threat in transition and a valuable asset on both special teams units.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Aitcheson’s game profile projects him as a top-six, two-way centre, drawing comparisons to players like Detroit's Dylan Larkin. Both players are defined by their blazing speed, relentless motor, and responsible defensive play, allowing them to be trusted in all situations. The explosiveness in his stride is also reminiscent of a young Taylor Hall, particularly in how he attacks the neutral zone and forces defenders onto their heels. Scouting services like McKeen's Hockey and various TSN regional reports have lauded his pro-level pace and high hockey IQ.

“Kashawn Aitcheson plays the game at a different speed than his peers. His ability to process the game while in full flight and make high-percentage plays is what separates him. He is a premier two-way threat who can anchor a line.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

His potential as a complete, 200-foot player makes him a safe but high-upside pick early in the draft. Teams looking for a future leader who can contribute offensively and defensively will have Aitcheson high on their lists.

Areas for Continued Development

While Aitcheson’s foundation is exceptionally strong, there are several areas scouts will be watching to determine his ultimate ceiling.

• Shooting Mentality: While an excellent playmaker, developing a more selfish, goal-scorer's mentality and improving his shot's power will make him a more dangerous dual-threat.
• Physical Engagement: Adding strength to his frame will be key to winning more puck battles along the boards and in front of the net against heavier competition.
• Penalty Killing Role: Tracking his usage and effectiveness on the penalty kill will offer key insights into how translatable his defensive skills are for the pro level.

Aitcheson's combination of elite skating and advanced hockey sense firmly places him among the top prospects in the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. His development into a more consistent scoring threat will be a crucial storyline to follow.

5. Jackson Smith - Goaltender (Tri-City Storm, USHL)

Breaking into the top five is Jackson Smith, the consensus top goaltender in this draft class and a prospect whose calm demeanour and technical precision have drawn considerable attention. Playing for the Tri-City Storm in the USHL, Smith has established himself as an elite netminder, showcasing the size, athleticism, and mental fortitude that NHL organizations prioritize in a future franchise cornerstone. His game is built on a foundation of excellent positioning and efficient movement, making him a formidable last line of defence.

At an impressive 6’4”, Smith already has the prototypical size that gives him a natural advantage in the crease, covering a significant portion of the net even before dropping into his butterfly. What sets him apart from other large goaltenders is his controlled athleticism and superb rebound control. He rarely looks frantic, instead relying on his fundamentals and hockey IQ to anticipate plays and be in the right position. His glove hand is quick, and he effectively steers pucks into low-danger areas, limiting second-chance opportunities for opponents.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Smith’s combination of size and a technically sound style brings to mind a young Frederik Andersen. Like Andersen, Smith uses his large frame to his advantage but complements it with fluid movements and strong positional play rather than relying solely on blocking. His development path through the USHL is also reminiscent of Connor Hellebuyck, another goaltender who honed his craft in the American junior system before becoming an elite NHL starter. Scouts from USA Hockey and various college recruiting services have praised his composure and advanced understanding of the position.

“Jackson Smith is the rare goaltending prospect who combines elite physical tools with an unshakable mental game. He plays with a calmness that elevates the confidence of the entire team in front of him. He’s the most complete goaltender in this draft class by a wide margin.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

Smith’s potential to become a true number one goaltender makes him a high-value asset in any 2027 NHL Mock Draft, with many analysts believing he has the talent to warrant a first-round selection.

Areas for Continued Development

While Smith’s foundation is exceptionally strong, there are several areas scouts will monitor to project his ultimate ceiling.

• Consistency Against Top Competition: Tracking his save percentage and performance in high-pressure situations, such as playoffs or international tournaments, will be crucial.
• Puck Handling: Continuing to develop his ability to play the puck confidently behind the net can add another dimension to his game and help his team’s transition offence.
• Lateral Quickness: While his positioning is excellent, further enhancing his post-to-post speed will be key to facing the pace of the NHL game.

Smith’s elite toolkit and high ceiling make him a franchise-altering prospect between the pipes. For fantasy hockey managers already looking ahead, understanding the value of elite goaltenders is key, and you can get a head start with our NHL fantasy rankings for goalies.

6. Logan Hensler - Defenseman (USA U-17, NTDP)

Slotting in at number six is Logan Hensler, a dynamic, mobile defenceman from the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP). Hensler is the epitome of the modern NHL blueliner, combining elite skating with high-end offensive instincts and a projectable frame. As a key member of the USA U-17 squad, he has consistently showcased the tools that make scouts believe he has top-pairing potential at the professional level. His game is built on a foundation of fluid mobility and intelligent puck management, allowing him to control the pace of play from the back end.

Standing at 6’1” and possessing a smooth, powerful stride, Hensler already has the physical tools to compete against older, stronger opposition. He uses his skating to escape pressure in his own zone, lead the rush, and maintain tight gaps against attacking forwards. What truly sets him apart, however, is his puck skill and offensive vision. He distributes the puck with crisp, accurate passes and isn't afraid to join the attack, creating scoring chances with his creativity and hockey sense. His ability to walk the blueline on the power play makes him a significant offensive weapon.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Hensler's developmental path and style of play draw favourable comparisons to other successful NTDP alumni like Quinn Hughes, who also blended elite skating with offensive creativity. While not yet at Hughes's sublime level, Hensler possesses a similar ability to influence the game with his mobility and puck-moving. His size and two-way potential also bring to mind a young Jacob Trouba, who combined physicality with offensive upside early in his career. Scouts consistently praise Hensler's poise and high hockey IQ, noting his advanced understanding of the game.

“Logan Hensler is a premier skater who makes the game look easy. He defends with his feet, transitions the puck with purpose, and has the offensive tools to quarterback a power play. He is exactly what NHL teams are looking for in a top-four defenceman in today’s game.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

His seamless transition to the highly competitive NTDP environment has cemented his status as a top prospect in the 2027 NHL Mock Draft.

Areas for Continued Development

As a high-end prospect, Hensler's progression will be closely watched. Observers will be focusing on a few specific areas to gauge his ultimate ceiling.

• Physical Engagement: While he defends well with his skating and stick, adding a more consistent physical element to his game will be crucial for handling heavy forechecks and net-front battles in the NHL.
• Shot Utilization: Developing a more deceptive and powerful shot from the point will make him an even more dangerous threat on the power play and at even strength.
• International Performance: How he performs against the best of his age group at major international tournaments like the U18 World Championships will be a key test of his elite potential.

Hensler’s blend of modern skills makes him one of the most exciting defencemen available. His continued development within the prestigious NTDP system will be a major storyline for scouts and fans to follow.

7. Lynden Lakovic - Forward (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)

Landing at number seven in our early 2027 NHL Mock Draft is Lynden Lakovic, a hard-nosed, skilled forward from the Calgary Hitmen. Lakovic embodies the modern power forward with a compelling mix of offensive talent, relentless grit, and burgeoning leadership qualities. His ability to contribute in every facet of the game, from putting the puck in the net to winning battles in the corners, makes him a highly coveted prospect. He plays a pro-style, 200-foot game that translates well to the next level, establishing himself as a foundational piece for any franchise.

At 6'2", Lakovic already has a projectable frame that he uses effectively to create space for himself and his teammates. He is a tenacious forechecker who finishes his checks and consistently forces turnovers, but he is far from just a grinder. Lakovic possesses a quick, accurate shot and has the hockey sense to find soft spots in the defensive coverage. This combination of sandpaper and skill allows him to be a difference-maker on both the scoresheet and the momentum chart.

Scouting Analysis and Player Comparison

Lakovic’s complete game and on-ice demeanour draw comparisons to established NHL centres like Bo Horvat. Much like Horvat, Lakovic is a reliable two-way player who can score crucial goals, win key faceoffs, and be trusted in high-pressure defensive situations. His leadership potential has also been noted by scouts, reminiscent of a young Ryan O'Reilly, who leads by example with an unwavering work ethic. Reports from Western Canadian hockey media consistently praise his maturity and high character.

“Lynden Lakovic is the type of player every coach wants and every opponent hates to play against. He has the skill to burn you and the will to outwork you on every single shift. That's a rare and valuable combination.” - PuckNStick Analytics Team

His game is not just about effort; it is about smart, effective hockey that influences the outcome of games, making him a safe and high-upside pick in the top ten.

Areas for Continued Development

While Lakovic’s profile is incredibly well-rounded, scouts will be watching for refinement in a few specific areas as he approaches his draft year.

• Point Production Consistency: Elevating his offensive output from consistent to truly dominant will be key to solidifying his status as an elite prospect in the 2027 class.
• Leadership Development: As he matures, observing how he steps into a primary leadership role with the Hitmen will be an important indicator of his intangible value.
• Playoff Performance: Demonstrating that he can elevate his game when the stakes are highest in the WHL playoffs will be a major validation of his big-game potential.

Lakovic's blend of skill, physicality, and character makes him a standout prospect in the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. He is a player who can build the heart and soul of a team's forward corps for years to come.

2027 NHL Draft Top 7 Prospect Comparison

Player	Implementation Complexity 🔄	Resource Requirements ⚡	Expected Outcomes 📊	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Porter Martone (Forward)	Moderate – developing two-way skills	High – size, skill, physicality	Franchise cornerstone potential	Teams seeking a dominant power forward with scoring	Size-skill combo, clutch performance
Ivan Ryabkin (Defenseman)	High – refining defensive positioning	High – strength and adaptation	Top-3 pick potential, elite puck mover	Teams needing offensive blueliner and powerplay QB	Skating & puck skills, offensive IQ
Matthew Schaefer (Defenseman)	Moderate – steady development	Moderate – leadership & IQ focus	Reliable two-way defense, leadership	Teams valuing high hockey IQ and steady two-way play	Hockey IQ, leadership, steady growth
Kashawn Aitcheson (Forward)	Moderate – consistency and shooting	Moderate – speed and versatility	Fast-paced, skilled two-way forward	Teams wanting speed and playmaking with defensive use	Game-breaking speed, versatility
Jackson Smith (Goaltender)	High – technical refinement ongoing	High – goaltender-specific coaching	Top goalie prospect, size & mental game	Teams prioritizing size and mental toughness in goal	Size, athleticism, technical skills
Logan Hensler (Defenseman)	Moderate – physical & decision skills	Moderate – development at NTDP	Potential top-15 pick, modern NHL style	Teams developing mobile, skilled defensemen	Skating, size, international experience
Lynden Lakovic (Forward)	Moderate – needs consistency	Moderate – leadership & physicality	Well-rounded, clutch middle-round forward	Teams seeking complete players with leadership	Two-way game, leadership, physicality

The Road Ahead: What to Watch for Until 2027

Navigating the landscape of a future NHL draft class, especially one as far out as the 2027 NHL Mock Draft, is an exercise in both projection and patience. What we have presented here is a foundational snapshot, an early look at the players whose current trajectories suggest they are on the path to becoming first-round talents. The names at the top, like the dynamic Porter Martone and the poised Ivan Ryabkin, have already established themselves as elite prospects within their age group through exceptional performances in leagues like the OHL and MHL.

However, the journey from a 15 or 16-year-old standout to a bona fide NHL draftee is a marathon filled with pivotal checkpoints and potential detours. The rankings you see today are not set in stone; they are a fluid, evolving list that will undoubtedly see significant shifts over the coming seasons. The development arc for players at this age is rarely linear.

Key Developmental Factors to Monitor

As we move closer to 2027, several key areas will dictate which players rise and which may fall. These are the critical factors that scouts, analysts, and fans should keep a close eye on as this draft class matures.

• Physical Maturation and Athleticism: Many of these prospects are still growing into their frames. How a player like Kashawn Aitcheson adds strength to his powerful frame or how a defenceman like Matthew Schaefer maintains his elite skating as he gets bigger and stronger will be crucial. Growth spurts can either enhance a player's game or temporarily disrupt their coordination, making this a vital observation point.

• Skill Refinement and Consistency: Raw talent is abundant in this early look at the 2027 NHL Mock Draft. The defining factor will be which players can consistently translate that talent into on-ice production. Watch for players who not only maintain but also expand their skill sets, adding new dimensions to their game and eliminating weaknesses. Can Logan Hensler round out his defensive game to match his offensive instincts? This is the kind of progression that turns a good prospect into a great one.

• Performance on Bigger Stages: The ultimate proving grounds for top prospects are international tournaments. Events like the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, the World U18 Championships, and eventually the World Junior Championship provide the best-on-best competition that separates the elite from the merely good. A dominant performance at one of these events can solidify a player's draft stock, while a struggle can raise questions.

The Inevitable Risers and Fallers

History tells us that every draft class has its surprises. A player currently projected in the second or third round could have a breakout season, leveraging a new role or a significant developmental leap to skyrocket up the draft boards. Conversely, a top-ranked prospect might plateau, struggle with injuries, or fail to adapt as the competition gets tougher and older.

That is the inherent excitement of tracking a group like this one. It's a long-term narrative with countless subplots. This initial 2027 NHL Mock Draft serves as the prologue. The coming chapters will be written in rinks across North America and Europe, from the CHL and the USHL to the junior leagues of Russia and Scandinavia. The future of the NHL is taking shape right now, and the journey to watch these young athletes chase their dreams will be as compelling as the destination itself. The talent is undeniable, and the road to 2027 promises to be a thrilling ride.

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