Rising Stars from the East: 2025 NHL Draft Sleepers

Everyone knows the Canadian and American prospects will dominate the 2025 NHL Draft, but which dark horse players from smaller hockey nations could surprise everyone?

via ESPN

Following Steven Ellis's fantastic article highlighting potential draft picks from smaller hockey nations in the 2024 class, I wanted to share my own list of draft-eligible players to watch from Kazakhstan, Norway, and China in the 2025 NHL Draft Class.

Kazakhstan is a familiar name in international hockey, known for its passionate fans and underdog spirit at the IIHF World Junior Championships. Their recent return to the top division is a testament to their growing program.

Meanwhile, Norway recently made history with its largest draft class ever, led by first-rounders Michael Brandsegg-Nygård and Stian Solberg, and it seems like the country's hockey talent pool is only getting deeper.

Here's a look at some players from these three countries who have caught my attention and could be potential surprises in the upcoming draft.

G - Tanirkhan Alpysbayev (Kazakhstan)

When underdogs face a barrage of shots, it's common to see their goaltender put on a heroic performance. However, Tanirkhan Alpysbayev did more than just survive; he thrived at the U18’s last spring. Channelling a bit of Jonathan Quick's flair, he consistently delivered highlight-reel saves with exceptional flexibility and agility that belied his age in that tournament.

Blending athleticism, speed, agility, and flexibility, Alpysbayev's ability to cover post-to-post with lightning speed showcases a dynamic, if somewhat risky, style. Improved positional play could lessen the need for dramatic saves, while his rebound control remains a work in progress. Although he generally absorbs the puck well, his blocker work could use more consistency. His assertiveness forces dekes on breakaways, which he usually handles easily. Despite technical challenges and positional

inconsistency, Alpysbayev's recovery and stamina show the potential for a unique prospect. If he can refine his technique to match his natural talent, he could be a standout in the 2025 class and beyond.

C - Mikkel Eriksen (Norway)

Mikkel Eriksen is a player of contradictions on the ice. When the puck is on his stick, he's electric. His skating is smooth and effortless, allowing him to navigate through traffic and find open ice. He possesses a knack for being in the right place at the right time, and his quick release and accurate shot are always on full display. His offensive instincts and ability to finish are undeniable. However, away from the puck, Eriksen fades into the background.

He lacks intensity and engagement, content to let the game come to him rather than dictating the pace. His defensive play is fine but uninspiring, and he can disappear for stretches at a time. He has the tools to be a force on both ends of the ice, but his inconsistency raises questions. If he can find a way to engage more consistently and elevate his overall game, his potential is undeniable. He could be a standout in the 2025 class, but his development hinges on becoming a more complete player.

LD - Haoxi Wang (China)

Haoxi Wang, a Boston University commit, is an imposing defensive prospect, boasting size, mobility, and hockey IQ. At 6'4.5" and 202 pounds, his presence on the ice is undeniable. Wang's game is built on a foundation of sound positioning and defensive awareness. He reads plays well, anticipating passes and disrupting opponents' attacks. His physicality allows him to win battles and clear the front of the net.

However, Wang's potential hasn't fully translated to consistent results. He needs to play with more intensity, further embrace his physicality, and become a more intimidating presence in his own zone. Offensively, he could take more risks and contribute to the attack, adding another dimension to his game. Wang's development hinges on translating his abilities into consistent performance. He needs to embrace his size and strength, become a more aggressive defender, and not shy away from offensive opportunities. If he can do this, he has the potential to be a valuable asset at the next level.

LW - Abzal Alibek (Kazakhstan) (D+1)

Alibek is a natural leader, both on and off the ice, whose work ethic and drive set him apart. His skating is exceptional, allowing him to keep pace with the best, and his offensive instincts are evident in his vision and scoring touch. But it's his relentless motor and commitment to both ends of the ice that make him a truly valuable asset. While he'll need to continue developing his physicality and offensive toolkit, Alibek's intangibles are undeniable. He's a player who elevates his teammates and possesses the potential to be a late-round steal for a team looking for a high-character player with a strong work ethic.

RW - Assanali Sarkenov (Kazakhstan) (D+1)

Sarkenov is a natural goal scorer with a lethal shot, particularly from the high slot. His size, soft hands, and puck skills allow him to create his own opportunities, and his offensive instincts are undeniable. While his skating needs refinement and his consistency can be a concern, his raw talent is undeniable. The recent CHL Import Draft selection by the Spokane Chiefs could provide the perfect platform for Sarkenov to develop his game further and prove he's worthy of a late-round selection. His high offensive ceiling makes him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a potential diamond in the rough.

LD - Roman Bolshedvorsky (Kazakhstan) (D+1)

Originally a big defensive defender, this Kazakh defenseman is turning heads with a surprising offensive flair, showcasing improved puck control and a knack for joining the attack. While his 6'3" frame hasn't always been fully utilized, a newfound physicality is emerging. If Bolshedvorsky can maintain this aggressive edge and continue honing his offensive skills, he could develop into a reliable two-way defenseman. His size, positional awareness, and burgeoning physicality make him a prospect worth watching.

LD - Andreas Syversen Pettersen (Norway)

Andreas Syversen Pettersen stood out as a defender who spent half the season in the Norwegian Men's League as a DY-1 player. At 6'0" and over 200 lbs, his size is a bit deceptive, as he needs to get stronger on his feet and better at defending the rush, as he can be skated through. Pettersen is an agile but not quick skater, confident with the puck, and more of a transition defender than a defensive one, unafraid to join the rush. His offensive upside is notable, but if he can improve his skill set, get stronger, and quicker, he could dominate the Norwegian league and be worth a draft pick.

F - Jørgen Nyhus Myhre (Norway)

Jørgen Nyhus Myhre, a reliable two-way player, made a significant impact on Norway's U18 team with his point-per-game production. He excels in positioning and battles fearlessly for pucks in the slot and corners. However, his physical play often lacks effectiveness due to poor technique, leading with his stick rather than his body. To boost his draft stock, Myhre must become a more energetic and disruptive force on the fourth line, requiring a complete overhaul of his physical approach. Despite his tireless work ethic, refining his physical play is crucial for reaching his full potential.

W - Elias Straume Vatne (Norway) (D+1)

Elias Vatne, an overager in this draft class, is known for his relentless work ethic and high-level game sense, Vatne excels away from the puck and sees the game at a faster pace than those around him. His confidence is evident in his puck-handling skills and quick release, often creating opportunities by driving play to high-danger areas. Despite his talent, Vatne’s backchecking needs more intensity, and his tendency to skate backward in offensive and neutral zones can be risky. With his strong vision and playmaking abilities, Vatne has the potential to be a valuable offensive asset if he continues to develop and refine his game.

C/W - Mathias Dehli (Norway) (D+1)

Mathias Dehli stands out as a big center with a power-forward style of play. He frequently drives to the net, using his size and strength to create scoring chances. His physicality is a major asset, but his skating needs improvement, as his first step is slow and his top speed, below average. Dehli's passing and vision are also areas for development. Despite these weaknesses, his powerful shot and impressive hands make him a notable prospect. While he's a serious project, his potential as a fourth-line player in the NHL has earned him consideration for the 2025 NHL Draft.

C - Petter Vesterheim (Norway) (D+2)

Petter Vesterheim is an intriguing prospect with notable offensive skills. As a playmaker, he recorded 27 assists in 41 games for Mora IK in the J20 Nationell league and gained experience in the HockeyAllsvenskan. His determination against stiff competition, including at the World Juniors, highlights his potential. Despite being 19 and previously unnoticed, Vesterheim's ability to create opportunities stands out. He must continue to develop, especially in scoring and skating, to boost his draft stock. With his playmaking talent and recent performances, Vesterheim is a promising candidate for the 2025 NHL Draft.

F - Mads Kongsbak Klyvø (Denmark)

Mads Kongsbak Kylvø, a 6'2", 194 lbs sniper, is an intriguing prospect with a powerful shot and a solid set of hands. His experience spans the Danish Men’s League (2 games) and the U20 league (27 games) in his D-2. In Frölunda, he demonstrates confidence with the puck, fluid skating, and an NHL average top speed. Kylvø moves well for his size, and his puckhandling complements his strong vision. While his defensive game and movement off the wall need to improve, and he sometimes shows tunnel vision, his overall potential is promising. With skill development and support from Frölunda HC, Kylvø has the tools to succeed.