Five Underrated Prospects for 2024 NHL Draft

Christian Humphreys had a strong end to his 2023-24 season.

He’s heading to the University of Michigan after scoring 24 points in 23 games. Sportsnaut says Berkly Catton and Cayden Linsgtrom are top picks, but Humphreys is worth a look too.

Dobber Prospects thinks he needs more energy and pace but sees him as a potential second-line player. “If Humphreys can bring the dawg out during his time in Michigan, he has a great chance to land on an NHL team’s middle-six,” they said.

EJ Emery: A Future Star

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Emery is set to play for the University of North Dakota this fall. The 6-foot-5 defenseman from Surrey, British Columbia, shows promise as a shut-down player for NHL teams needing size.

“Emery impressed with his high-end athleticism during the NHL Scouting Combine,” said Adam Kimelman from NHL.com. “He likely won’t be a big offensive contributor but should develop into a very good complement to a high-end offensive-minded defenseman.”

Charlie Elick: A Smart Defender

Charlie Elick isn’t as talked about as Sam Dickinson or Zayne Parekh, but his hockey IQ stands out. Flo Hockey compares him to veteran Brock Faber.

“Faber was dogged for lack of offense in his younger days and that is also true of Elick,” they noted. “But what really stands out is how good of a skater Elick is and how smart he plays defensively.”

Trevor Connelly: Speedy Left Wing

Connelly might not be under-the-radar since he’s expected to go in the first round, though later in the evening.

Kimelman mentions some off-ice maturity issues that need addressing, but Mike G. Morreale believes Connelly’s talent can’t be overlooked. “His game is predicated on speed, skill, vision and compete,” Morreale writes.

Fans might think this makes Connelly an exciting pick despite concerns.

Mikhail Yegorov: Top Goalie Prospect

Only 13 goalies were picked in the first round between 2000 and 2020, so Yegorov might wait longer than others. But any team needing goalie depth will find value in him.

The top goalie prospect has committed to Boston University after showing strong performance with Omaha Lancers of USHL.

“He has shown steady development throughout the season,” Al Jensen told NHL.com. “He moves well throughout the crease and has very good structure in his game.”

What do you think about these players? Do you agree with their potential?