Top 7 WPG Jets Prospects to Watch in 2025
The future of the Winnipeg Jets is taking shape in arenas across North America and Europe. For any NHL organization aiming for sustained success, a deep and talented prospect pool is not a luxury, it's a necessity. This system provides a vital stream of skill, energy, and cost-controlled talent, crucial for navigating the hard realities of the salary cap era. Understanding who is developing in the pipeline offers a clear preview of the team's direction and potential for years to come.
In this detailed roundup, we will dive deep into the top seven WPG Jets prospects, moving beyond simple statistics to provide a comprehensive analysis of their individual games. We'll break down the specific skills that make each player unique, from their on-ice vision and skating mechanics to their defensive acumen and offensive creativity. You'll get a clear picture of their projected NHL roles, their potential timelines for making the leap, and what they need to refine to get there. This guide is your definitive look at the next wave of talent, including players like Rutger McGroarty, Colby Barlow, and Brayden Yager, who are all vying to one day wear the Jets crest at the Canada Life Centre.
1. Rutger McGroarty
Topping our list of Winnipeg Jets prospects is Rutger McGroarty, the dynamic right-winger selected 14th overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. A product of the famed US National Team Development Program (USNTDP), McGroarty has spent the last two seasons sharpening his skills with the University of Michigan Wolverines, establishing himself as a premier talent in the NCAA and a cornerstone of the Jets' future.
Profile and Scouting Report
McGroarty embodies the modern power forward prototype. He possesses a coveted combination of high-end skill, a tenacious work ethic, and pro-level size. His hockey IQ is arguably his greatest asset, allowing him to read plays effectively in all three zones. This intelligence, paired with a relentless motor, makes him a formidable two-way presence who can be trusted in critical situations.
While not a fleet-footed skater, he compensates with powerful strides and exceptional positioning. He excels in high-traffic areas, using his sturdy frame to protect the puck, win board battles, and create scoring chances around the net. His leadership qualities are also highly touted; he served as captain for both the US World Juniors team and the Michigan Wolverines, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. For a deeper analysis of his draft-day value, you can explore detailed NHL draft grades for the 2022 class.
Future Outlook and Development
McGroarty’s trajectory points directly toward a significant role in the NHL. His consistent point production at the college level and standout performances on the international stage, including the IIHF World Junior Championships, highlight his readiness for the next step.
The infographic below summarizes his key attributes as he transitions toward his professional career.
This quick reference highlights why the Jets organization is so optimistic, showcasing his NHL-ready build and versatile skill set. To make a seamless transition, his development will centre on refining his skating mechanics for the faster professional pace and quickening his shot release to beat NHL-calibre goaltenders. If he continues on this path, McGroarty projects to be a top-six forward who contributes on the scoresheet and provides valuable leadership for years to come.
2. Colby Barlow
Next on our list of exciting WPG Jets prospects is Colby Barlow, the powerful left-winger selected 18th overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. A pure goal-scorer forged in the competitive Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Barlow has been a dominant force for the Owen Sound Attack. His blend of size, skill, and an elite shot makes him a quintessential sniper and a key piece of the Jets' future offensive plans.
Profile and Scouting Report
Barlow is a natural goal-scorer whose primary asset is his NHL-calibre shot. He possesses a quick, deceptive release that can beat goaltenders from anywhere in the offensive zone, making him a constant threat, especially on the power play. Standing at 6-foot-1 and over 190 pounds, he uses his frame effectively to establish position in front of the net and win battles along the boards.
Beyond his scoring prowess, Barlow plays a responsible and physically engaged game. He doesn't shy away from contact and uses his strength to drive to the net and create space for himself and his teammates. While his playmaking is an underrated part of his game, his first instinct is to shoot, which has led to him being a consistent point-per-game player and a 40-goal scorer in the OHL. His leadership qualities are also noteworthy, as he was named captain of the Attack at just 17 years old.
Future Outlook and Development
Barlow’s future in the NHL is centred around his goal-scoring potential. He projects as a top-six winger who can be a primary contributor on the scoresheet and a fixture on the power play. His proven ability to score at a high rate in major junior, including strong performances during the Memorial Cup, provides a clear blueprint for his professional success. For a comparative look at prospect development, you can see how he stacks up against others in the pipeline; for more information, you can learn more about top prospects on pucknstick.com.
To reach his full potential, Barlow’s development will focus on a few key areas. Enhancing his skating mechanics, particularly his first-step quickness and agility, will be crucial for adapting to the speed of the professional game. Continuing to add muscle mass to his frame will help him win battles against stronger NHL defencemen, and refining his defensive positioning will ensure he becomes a reliable two-way forward. If he continues to develop these aspects, Barlow has all the tools to become an impact goal-scorer for the Winnipeg Jets.
3. Brayden Yager
Making his mark at number three is Brayden Yager, the highly skilled centreman selected 14th overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. A product of the Moose Jaw Warriors in the Western Hockey League (WHL), Yager has quickly established himself as one of the premier offensive talents outside of professional hockey. His elite hockey sense and dynamic playmaking make him a crucial piece of the Jets' future offensive puzzle.
Profile and Scouting Report
Yager is a cerebral two-way forward whose game is built on exceptional vision and a pro-calibre shot. His ability to anticipate plays and find open ice sets him apart, allowing him to create scoring opportunities for both himself and his linemates. He possesses one of the most dangerous releases in junior hockey, capable of beating goaltenders from a distance with deceptive speed and accuracy. This goal-scoring prowess is complemented by his strong playmaking skills, as he consistently elevates the performance of those around him.
While not an explosive skater, Yager is efficient and intelligent with his movement, always putting himself in the right position to impact the play. He has demonstrated consistent offensive production throughout his WHL career, including impressive playoff performances where his competitive drive shines. His experience representing Canada on the international stage, including at the World Juniors, has further polished his game against top-tier competition, making him a well-rounded and reliable prospect for the wpg jets prospects pipeline.
Future Outlook and Development
Yager’s future in the NHL looks exceptionally bright, with a clear path toward becoming a top-six scoring forward. His offensive toolkit is diverse enough to adapt to various roles, whether as a primary goal-scorer on the wing or a playmaking centre. His strong performance as a top scorer for the Moose Jaw Warriors underscores his ability to carry an offensive load.
To ensure a smooth transition to the professional ranks, Yager's development will focus on a few key areas. Continued strength training will be vital to handle the physical demands of the NHL and win more battles along the boards. Additionally, refining his defensive positioning and consistency in his own end will round out his game, making him a trusted option in all situations. If he continues on his current trajectory, Yager projects to be a key offensive contributor for the Jets, capable of driving a scoring line for many years.
4. Dmitry Rashevsky
Landing at number four is Dmitry Rashevsky, a skilled and creative Russian winger selected by the Jets in the fifth round, 146th overall, in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Unlike many Russian prospects who remain in the KHL, Rashevsky has taken a unique development path by transitioning to North American junior hockey. This move demonstrates a strong commitment to adapting his game for the NHL, making him one of the more intriguing wpg jets prospects in the system.
Profile and Scouting Report
Rashevsky is an offensive-minded forward defined by his high-end hockey sense and creativity with the puck. He possesses excellent vision, allowing him to identify and execute difficult passes to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His hands are soft, and he excels at stickhandling in tight spaces, making him a constant threat in the offensive zone.
While he doesn't have explosive speed, Rashevsky is an intelligent skater who uses anticipation and smart positioning to get to open ice. His game is built more on finesse and skill than on physicality, but his successful transition to the smaller North American rinks has shown he can handle a more robust style of play. His biggest assets are his offensive instincts and his ability to process the game at a high level, traits that give him significant upside.
Future Outlook and Development
Rashevsky’s future with the Jets hinges on his continued adaptation and rounding out his complete, 200-foot game. His strong performances in junior hockey and international tournaments have proven he has the raw offensive talent to succeed. Now, the focus will be on building the consistency and defensive responsibility required at the professional level.
His development plan will likely prioritize adding strength to his frame to better handle the physical demands of the AHL and NHL. Coaches will also work with him to refine his defensive zone coverage and improve his play without the puck. If he can successfully integrate these elements into his already impressive offensive toolkit, Rashevsky projects as a potential middle-six scoring forward who could provide valuable offensive depth and contribute on the power play for the Winnipeg Jets.
5. Elias Salomonsson
Next on our list of key WPG Jets prospects is Elias Salomonsson, a smooth-skating Swedish defenceman selected 55th overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. A product of the well-regarded Skellefteå AIK system, Salomonsson has been developing against professional competition in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). He represents the modern, mobile blue-liner archetype coveted by NHL teams for his blend of speed, puck-moving skill, and evolving defensive game.
Profile and Scouting Report
Salomonsson’s game is built upon his exceptional skating and poise with the puck. He possesses fluid, four-way mobility that allows him to evade forecheckers, lead the rush, and maintain tight gaps against opposing forwards. His ability to make a crisp first pass under pressure is a signature trait, enabling his team to transition efficiently from defence to offence.
While his offensive instincts are a clear strength, he plays a sound, responsible game in his own end. He uses an active stick and smart positioning to disrupt plays rather than relying on overwhelming physicality. His international performances for Sweden and his steady play in the SHL showcase a maturity and hockey sense that have him on a clear professional trajectory. His potential impact can be better understood by exploring advanced metrics, and you can get a clearer picture with this explanation of wins above replacement in hockey.
Future Outlook and Development
Salomonsson’s path projects toward a role as a top-four, puck-moving defenceman at the NHL level. His experience playing against men in one of Europe’s top professional leagues has prepared him for the rigours of North American hockey. His continued development will focus on adding strength to his frame to handle the physical demands of battling for pucks in corners and in front of the net.
As he transitions to the smaller ice surface in North America, his decision-making speed will need to adapt, but his skating ability should make this adjustment manageable. If Salomonsson continues to round out his defensive game while leveraging his offensive gifts, he has the potential to become a vital component of the Jets' blue line, capable of logging significant minutes and contributing to the power play.
6. Kevin He
Further down our list of wpg jets prospects, but no less intriguing, is Kevin He, a steady defenceman who brings valuable size and a high ceiling to the organization's defensive depth chart. Selected in the 5th round, 147th overall, in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, He has been developing his game with the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. He represents a long-term project with the potential to blossom into a reliable NHL contributor.
Profile and Scouting Report
Kevin He is a defensively responsible blueliner whose primary assets are his impressive size and reach. Standing at 6-foot-3, he already possesses a pro-level frame that he uses effectively to disrupt opponents, clear the front of the net, and win battles along the boards. His game is built on a foundation of smart, safe plays and a strong positional awareness in his own zone.
While not a dynamic offensive producer, his first pass is accurate, and he makes intelligent decisions to initiate the breakout. He has shown considerable improvement in his junior career, particularly in his penalty-killing contributions where his wingspan and defensive instincts are most apparent. Coaches and development staff value his steady progression and coachable attitude, seeing him as a prospect who consistently builds upon his fundamentals year after year.
Future Outlook and Development
He’s path to the NHL will be a marathon, not a sprint, requiring patience and dedicated development from both the player and the Jets organization. His trajectory is that of a potential middle-pairing, shutdown defenceman who can anchor a penalty-killing unit. The Jets see him as a valuable piece of their long-term defensive puzzle, providing a different element than some of the more offensive-minded prospects in the system.
To reach his full potential, He's development plan will focus on a few key areas. Improving his overall skating, particularly his first-step quickness and lateral mobility, will be crucial for defending against the speed of the professional game. He will also need to continue adding muscle mass to his large frame to handle the physical demands of playing against NHL forwards. If he can refine these aspects while continuing to hone his defensive skills, Kevin He could become a very effective and dependable defenceman for the Winnipeg Jets in the future.
7. Thomas Milic
Next on our list of key wpg jets prospects is goaltender Thomas Milic, a fifth-round selection (151st overall) in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. Despite being passed over in previous drafts, Milic’s persistence and stellar play with the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL made him impossible to ignore. His championship pedigree and rapid development have positioned him as a legitimate future option in the Jets' crease.
Profile and Scouting Report
Milic is a technically sound and athletic goaltender who combines excellent positioning with impressive reflexes. At 6-foot-0, he isn’t the largest netminder, but he plays big by aggressively challenging shooters and maintaining a compact, controlled stance. His lateral movement is a significant strength, allowing him to move post-to-post with speed and efficiency to shut down cross-crease plays.
One of his most lauded attributes is his unflappable demeanour and mental toughness. Milic demonstrated this by backstopping Seattle to a WHL Championship and a Memorial Cup Final appearance. He also led Team Canada to gold at the IIHF World Junior Championships, proving he can perform under the brightest lights and most intense pressure.
Future Outlook and Development
Milic's path to the NHL is a testament to perseverance. After signing his entry-level contract, he has spent time with both the Manitoba Moose (AHL) and the Norfolk Admirals (ECHL), gaining valuable professional experience. His development will focus on adapting to the speed and precision of pro-level shots, which requires even faster processing and refined rebound control.
The Jets' goaltending development staff will work closely with him to ensure he continues to build upon his strong technical foundation. His focus will be on maintaining consistency throughout a long professional season and continuing to hone his puck-handling skills. If Milic continues his upward trajectory, he projects as a reliable and competitive NHL goaltender who thrives in high-stakes situations.
WPG Jets Top 7 Prospects Comparison
| Player | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rutger McGroarty | Moderate: Transition NCAA to Pro | Moderate: Physical & skill growth | Top-6 two-way forward in 1-2 years | Reliable two-way forward role | Well-rounded skill set, leadership |
| Colby Barlow | Moderate-High: Skating & strength | High: Physical development needed | Top-6 scoring winger in 2-3 years | Power forward/scoring winger | Elite goal scoring, physical presence |
| Brayden Yager | Moderate: Size & skating refinement | Moderate: Strength and defensive focus | Top-6 playmaker center/winger in 2-3 years | Playmaking and versatile forward | Exceptional vision and passing |
| Dmitry Rashevsky | High: Adjust to NA style & consistency | Moderate: Adaptation and defensive work | Middle-6 forward with offensive upside in 2-4 years | Creative offensive middle-6 role | Creativity, offensive instincts |
| Elias Salomonsson | Moderate-High: Strength & positioning | Moderate: Strength & adaptation | Top-4 two-way defenseman in 2-3 years | Mobile, puck-moving defenseman | Elite skating, puck-moving ability |
| Kevin He | Low-Moderate: Steady development | Moderate: Skating and strength | Bottom-4 defensive defenseman in 3-4 years | Defensive depth, penalty killing | Defensive reliability, work ethic |
| Thomas Milic | High: Consistency & mental game | High: Technical & mental refinement | Potential NHL backup/starter in 3-5 years | Future goaltender depth and starter | Exceptional size, athleticism, positioning |
The Path Ahead: Cultivating Winnipeg's Future Champions
The journey from a promising draft pick to a dependable NHL contributor is long and fraught with challenges, yet the Winnipeg Jets' prospect pipeline offers a compelling vision for the future. As we've explored, the organization has meticulously assembled a diverse and high-ceiling talent pool, moving beyond simply stockpiling players to cultivating a well-rounded system capable of addressing future needs across the lineup. This strategic depth is the cornerstone of sustainable success in the modern NHL.
From the relentless motor and leadership of Rutger McGroarty to the pure, unadulterated goal-scoring prowess of Colby Barlow, the Jets possess top-tier offensive talent on the horizon. These players aren't just one-dimensional; they bring the multifaceted skills required to make a genuine impact. The system is further bolstered by the high-octane, cerebral game of Brayden Yager and the proven scoring touch of KHL standout Dmitry Rashevsky, offering different developmental timelines and stylistic fits.
From Potential to Performance: Key Takeaways
The most significant takeaway for fans and analysts alike is the variety within this group of wpg jets prospects. The organization has balanced raw offensive firepower with foundational pieces on the back end and in goal.
- Defensive Stability: Elias Salomonsson represents the modern, mobile defenceman capable of transitioning the puck with elite efficiency, a critical component for any team looking to control the pace of play.
- Goaltending Depth: The emergence of Thomas Milic, a goaltender who has consistently defied expectations and won at every level, provides a crucial layer of security in the crease for years to come.
- High-Skill Wildcard: A prospect like Kevin He, with his dynamic skill and offensive instincts, adds an element of high-reward potential that could pay significant dividends.
This blend of near-NHL-ready talent and long-term projects ensures that the Jets are not only prepared for the immediate future but are also building a competitive core for the next decade. The path forward involves careful development, patience, and placing these young athletes in environments where they can thrive. For followers of the team, the key will be tracking their progress in their respective leagues, from the NCAA and CHL to European professional circuits. The potential is undeniable; the next phase is turning that potential into tangible on-ice results at the Canada Life Centre.
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