Top College Hockey Prospects

Although the majority of NHL players do not come from the ranks of collegiate hockey players, there are still a plethora of top college prospects. Many collegiate players end up drafted in the early rounds and turn professional right out of college. Here are a few of the top NCAA hockey prospects around the country.

Charlie Coyle, Boston University

Right wing Charlie Coyle was solid in his final season at Boston University and was drafted in the first round by the San Jose Sharks (and subsequently traded to the Minnesota Wild).

Jaden Schwartz, Colorado College

Canadian Jaden Schwartz, center for Colorado College, is regarded as one of the best play makers and best passers in the country. Schwartz was a first round draft choice for the St. Louis Blues.

Chris Kreider, Boston College

Boston College left wing Chris Kreider is considered one of the best prospects currently in the NCAA. With one year of eligibility left, he was drafted in the first round by the New York Rangers.

John Merrill, University of Michigan

Defense-man John Merrill of Michigan is another top prospect already drafted into the NHL. He was taken by the New Jersey Devils in the second round.

All around the country, there are a great number of top collegiate prospects considered by the NHL. While American collegiate hockey players are less likely to go straight into the professional ranks, there are still a great many players that are considered well-rounded enough that they are drafted in the higher rounds by NHL teams.