Top U.S. players in the 2015 NHL Draft

As we count down to the 2015 NHL draft, it looks as though this could be one of the best drafts in recent years in terms of American talent, with players who could be set to make an immediate impact next season. While much of the focus has been on Canadian wonderboy Connor McDavid – seen scoring an incredible goal for Erie against Plymouth below – U.S. hockey fans have their own teenage sensation Jack Eichel preparing to be given a top-two tag when the draft gets under way this summer. But there are plenty of other exciting, young American players entering the draft this year, with a number of college players gaining more attention than those playing in junior league USHL.

So who are the most highly-rated players from the U.S.A who we will be seeing near the top of this year’s NHL draft?

Jack Eichel (Centre): If it wasn’t for the presence of Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel would be heading into the 2015 NHL draft as one of the most exciting prospects of the past decade. But make no mistake, while the Boston University youngster is expected to be picked second by the Buffalo Sabres, Eichel is one of the most naturally talented players of a generation and where he ends up could have an impact on how the NHL odds look with bet365 and other online bookmakers. The centre has led the Boston University Terriers this season with 40 points, from 26 goals and 45 assists, earning a place in the Team U.S.A. roster for the current Ice Hockey World Championship. That is a sign of just how excited the national team management are about the 18-year-old.

Image courtesy of Chae N.

Noah Hanifin (Defenseman): Another player heading into the draft on the back of a sensational season in Boston, Noah Hanifin posted 37 points with five goals and 18 assists for the Boston College Eagles and the 18-year-old has been labelled as the best defenseman in this year’s draft. Despite being one of the youngest players in this draft, Hanifin showed he can mix it with the big boys during his time with the College Eagles, and his ability to play pinpoint stretch passes gives his offense a real edge. Don’t be surprised to see Hanifin snapped up as early as third in this draft, certainly in the top-five, and it’ll be interesting to see just how quick the teenager can adapt to the NHL. The evidence would suggest it would be quite quickly.

Kyle Connor (Centre): He might not be on the level of Eichel but Kyle Connor has all the tools to be a very useful centre for someone in the NHL. The teenager gained a lot of attention for his incredible form for the Youngstown Phantoms in the USHL last season, scoring 56 points, with 34 goals and 46 assists. Despite his long frame, Connor is blessed with some exquisite skills and a real talent for finding the back of the net. But his scoring might not be the most attractive aspect of Connor’s game when it comes to NHL scouts, who can’t help but have been impressed by the youngster’s two-way game – something not many his age are capable of doing.