This week we will be looking at the future of the NHL. With the season winding down, many top prospects are looking to sign with their NHL clubs. These young stars could have an immediate impact for fantasy managers and their pro teams. While some of these players haven’t signed or made their debuts yet, they could hold value as the season closes, as well as in the beginning of the 2026 season. Let’s take a glimpse into the future of the league with ten rookies who could have a late season impact.

*Note: Stats courtesy of ESPN Fantasy Hockey

10. Alex Bump, LW, Philadelphia Flyers, Rostered-0.1%

Twenty-two year old Alex Bump has made an immediate impact with four points in his first eight contests. He is playing on the team’s top line alongside Christian Dvorak and Travis Konecny. With the Flyers starting to fall out of the playoff race, Bump should continue to see an extended look in the teams top-six.

9. Sacha Boisvert, C, Chicago Blackhawks, Rostered-0.1%

The Blackhawks first round pick in 2024, Sacha Boisvert recently signed with the team. He is set to make his NHL debut this week and should see ample opportunity with the team’s current state. He should be a key piece of the club moving forward.

8. Brad Lambert, C, Winnipeg Jets, Rostered-0.1%

Brad Lambert has suited up for thirteen games this year with the Jets. Despite playing in a reduced role, he’s amassed five points during that span. If Winnipeg falls out of playoff contention, expect Lambert to see more ice-time.

7. Nick Lardis, RW, Chicago Blackhawks, Rostered-0.1%

Nick Lardis has more NHL experience than any player on this list. He is a talented goal scorer and if he can translate that to the NHL, he could be a valuable fantasy asset. If he plays alongside Bedard or Nazar, Lardis could find more offensive success.

6. Ryan Ufko, Nashville Predators, Rostered-0.4%

Ryan Ufko has immediately found success on the Predators blue line as they continue their playoff push. With five points in nine contests, he continues the offensive production that he has had at every level. Ufko is an under the radar pickup during the fantasy playoffs.

5. Zayne Parekh, D, Calgary Flames, Rostered-2%

Parekh has struggled during his rookie season in the NHL. In 25 games he has registered only three assists. While the Flames as a whole have struggled to produce offense, Parekh especially is finding it difficult to translate his game to the pro level. Despite this he has the talent to be a difference making defenceman for the future.

4. Michael Hage, C, Montreal Canadiens, Rostered-0.2%

Michael Hage is yet to sign his entry-level deal with Montreal. However, following the conclusion of the college season, he is expected to join the Canadiens. He should immediately slot into the team’s top-six. Moving forward he will be an important piece of the puzzle for the Habs.

3. Cole Eiserman, LW, New York Islanders, Rostered-0.2%

Cole Eiserman has recently signed his entry-level deal with the Islanders. However, it’s more likely that Eiserman factors into the team’s 2026-27 plans. Still, he has elite goal scoring ability which is something New York has long been starving for in their lineup.

2. Anton Frondell, C, Chicago Blackhawks, Rostered-0.5%

The Blackhawks third overall pick in 2025, Anton Frondell has been spectacular this season in Europe. He looks ready to translate his game to the NHL level for Chicago. Whether that is at the end of the year or the beginning of 2026-27, Frondell will be an impact player immediately.

1. Cole Hutson, D, Washington Capitals, Rostered-7.8%

Much like his brother Lane, Cole Hutson took no time to adjust to the NHL game. He already has two points in three games for Washington. After the departure of John Carlson, he should continue to see extended ice-time moving forward. Hutson has tremendous fantasy value now and in the future.

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