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The University of North Dakota (UND) hockey program is poised to have a strong presence at the 2025 NHL Draft. Several UND commits are expected to be selected, with forward Cole Reschny potentially being a first-round pick. This marks anoth...
The 2025 NHL Draft is set to showcase the talent pipeline of the University of North Dakota hockey program. Cole Reschny, an incoming freshman center, has garnered significant attention and is expected to be a first-round pick. His skill, playmaking ability, and willingness to go to the net have impressed scouts. His decision to play for UND has been a hot topic, marking a shift in how elite players view college hockey as a viable development path.
Beyond Reschny, several other UND commits are on the radar for Day 2 selections. Sam Laurila, a defenseman, is noted for his improved offensive game and skating ability. Andrew O'Neill, a forward from Fargo, is seen as a potential checker with good speed and a strong work ethic. Garrett Lindberg, another defenseman, faces challenges due to his size but is praised for his leadership and intensity.
Cooper Simpson, a highly skilled forward committed to UND in 2026, is considered a polarizing prospect. While his offensive talent is evident, scouts are looking for increased competitiveness and consistent effort. Goaltender Caleb Heil, set to join UND in 2026, is also on the radar after a strong season in the USHL, with scouts noting his improved composure and potential.
Jack Kernan and Josh Zakreski are also mentioned as potential late-round picks or free-agent signings. Kernan's work ethic and offensive creativity are seen as positives, while Zakreski's shoot-first mentality and strong analytics could attract NHL teams.
Reschny possesses high-end skill, creative playmaking ability, and a willingness to go to the hard areas of the ice. His hockey sense and ability to rise to the occasion have also impressed scouts.
Laurila has improved his offensive game and skating ability, showcasing a more dynamic style of play compared to his time with the National Team Development Program.
O'Neill is viewed as a hard-working checker with good speed, who sacrifices his body and blocks shots. He is seen as a player coaches can trust.
While Simpson is highly skilled, scouts are looking for increased competitiveness and consistent effort in his game.
Some commits like Reschny, Laurila, Kernan, and Zakreski are expected to join UND this fall, while others like Simpson, O'Neill, Heil, and Lindberg are expected in 2026.
Do you think UND will have multiple players drafted in the early rounds? Which UND commit has the most potential to exceed expectations? Let us know!
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