The Calder Candidates: A Deep Dive into NHL Rookies Poised to Dominate

Every hockey season brings with it a fresh wave of talent, hopefuls poised to carve their names into the league`s illustrious history. But for the discerning fantasy hockey manager, these aren`t just names; they`re potential catalysts, game-changers, and the undisputed future of their respective franchises. As the 2025-26 season looms, the scouting reports are in, and a dozen or so rookies are generating considerable buzz. Some are celebrated prodigies, others quietly impactful. Regardless of their current spotlight, each possesses the potential to redefine their team`s trajectory and, perhaps more importantly, propel your fantasy roster to championship glory. Let`s peel back the layers and examine the rookies set to make the biggest splash, combining dazzling skill with the sheer audacity of youth.

Forwards: The Offensive Architects

Ivan Demidov, F, Montreal Canadiens

The undisputed darling of the upcoming rookie class, Demidov`s offensive toolkit is as dazzling as a perfectly executed deke in overtime. The early Calder favorite, his production hinges not just on his innate talent, but on the delicate dance of linemate synergy. Paired potentially with Patrik Laine and Kirby Dach – two names synonymous with both brilliance and frustrating injury histories – Demidov’s fate becomes a captivating narrative. Should this trio click, expect fireworks. If not, fear not, for Montreal’s coaching staff, presumably, possesses the acumen to find suitable partners. Add a top power-play role alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, and his projected 65-point ceiling looks less like a fantasy and more like an impending reality. Having already sniffed NHL ice, including playoffs, last spring, he’s not entirely a stranger to the big stage. Draft him, and then prepare for the highlights reel.

Jimmy Snuggerud, F, St. Louis Blues

Three years of seasoning since his draft day, and Jimmy Snuggerud is now a perfectly ripened prospect, ready for primetime in St. Louis. Skating on a top line with Robert Thomas and a coveted power-play slot, Snuggerud is primed to convert his University of Minnesota point-per-game prowess into NHL currency. While a 1.28 points-per-game pace might be an ambitious benchmark for the NHL, a solid 60-65 points seems well within his grasp. This physical winger, drawing comparisons to Toronto`s Matthew Knies, is not just a scorer but a presence, a vital ingredient for any aspiring contender – and a fantasy roster seeking reliable output.

Ryan Leonard, F, Washington Capitals

If you appreciate a player who can both put the puck in the net and make opponents question their life choices, Ryan Leonard is your man. This pesky and physical forward is expected to carve out a scoring role on a line with Pierre-Luc Dubois (who, ironically, might also be his landlord). A secondary power-play assignment further sweetens the pot for fantasy managers. Beyond the points, count on a consistent stream of hits, making him a valuable asset in multi-category leagues. His potential to leave dishes in Dubois`s sink will be easily forgiven as long as the puck finds twine.

Ville Koivunen, F, Pittsburgh Penguins

A name that might not headline pre-season hype reels, but one that could deliver quiet, consistent dividends. Drafted back in 2021, Koivunen, now 22, showed a tantalizing glimpse of his potential with seven assists in eight Penguins contests last season. His golden ticket? A potential role alongside Sidney Crosby. If he can secure that top-line spot, or even a spot with Evgeni Malkin, his fantasy upside skyrockets. In deeper leagues, Koivunen is the kind of dark horse whose subtle contributions could turn the tide.

Michael Misa, F, San Jose Sharks

The second-overall pick of this year`s draft, Michael Misa is a prodigious talent arriving in San Jose at a time when the Sharks are, shall we say, in a rebuilding phase. Coach Ryan Warsofsky seems keen, offering Misa a look on the second scoring line. If he usurps Alexander Wennberg and earns power-play minutes, Misa’s explosive speed and full complement of offensive talents (62 goals, 72 assists in 65 junior games last season) could translate to an immediate 60-point ceiling. While not quite `Celebrini-esque` – a term now requiring its own dictionary entry for rookie superlatives – Misa`s potential near the 60-point mark should suffice for most non-mythical beings. He`s a rapid riser who deserves a spot on deeper scoring league rosters.

Maxim Shabanov, F, New York Islanders

The Islanders, bless their structured hearts, are in dire need of offensive creativity. Enter Maxim Shabanov, a KHL export with the hopes of a franchise, and potentially your fantasy team, riding on his somewhat older rookie shoulders. Turning 25 in October, Shabanov draws comparisons to Artemi Panarin`s impactful NHL debut as a more seasoned rookie. If he can secure a top-line role with Bo Horvat and fellow newcomer Jonathan Drouin, he could be a significant fantasy sleeper. Sometimes, a touch of maturity can be the secret sauce for immediate NHL success.

Defensemen: Blue-Line Brilliance and Hidden Gems

Sam Rinzel, D, Chicago Blackhawks

In Chicago, where offensive defensemen are currently as rare as a quiet night on Michigan Avenue, Rinzel steps in, armed with a shot that could register on the Richter scale. Expected to anchor the Blackhawks` top power play – due in part to a delightful scarcity of alternatives – the 21-year-old is poised for point production. Beyond the points, Rinzel is a physical presence, eager to throw his body around and block shots with commendable regularity. For ESPN standard leagues, where plus/minus isn`t a soul-crushing category, Rinzel is a must-draft prospect in any deeper format.

Zayne Parekh, D, Calgary Flames

Flames fans are understandably ecstatic about Zayne Parekh, a defenseman who posted a mind-boggling 107 points in 61 junior games. His arrival in the big leagues this year seems all but assured. The anticipated trade of Rasmus Andersson could open up a secondary power-play slot, allowing Parekh`s offensive gifts to truly flourish. Projected to eventually skate alongside a shutdown defender like Kevin Bahl, Parekh will enjoy the freedom to activate offensively at even strength. His “nasty edge” also offers a bonus for fantasy managers who appreciate penalty minutes – a player who can fill the net and the sin bin with equal aplomb.

Goaltenders: The Unsung Heroes (or Risky Bets)

Yaroslav Askarov, G, San Jose Sharks

Oh, Askarov will play, alright. With Alex Nedeljkovic as the other option between the pipes in San Jose, the 23-year-old Russian netminder is practically guaranteed a healthy workload. The larger, more existential question for fantasy managers isn`t “if” he plays, but “how well” the Sharks play in front of him. If San Jose`s anticipated offensive improvements (Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund) translate into significantly more wins than their paltry 20 last year, Askarov could emerge as a sneaky sleeper. While not a consensus early draft pick, he`s definitely one to monitor closely from the waiver wire. The potential reward, if the Sharks can tread water, could be significant.

Leevi Merilainen, G, Ottawa Senators

Merilainen represents the quintessential “breakout backup” scenario. Should Linus Ullmark, the Senators` starting netminder, succumb to any significant time off (as he did last season), the 23-year-old Finn could be an exceptional fantasy surprise. His AHL stint last winter (8-3-1 record, 1.99 GAA, .925 SV%, three shutouts) showcased his readiness. As the full-time backup for a good Senators squad, he`s poised to see increased action. Keep Merilainen squarely on your fantasy radar as a viable streaming option or a shrewd late-round gamble.

Long-Term Investments: Patience, a Virtue Rewarded

Zeev Buium, D, Minnesota Wild

Zeev Buium is undeniably a valuable performer… someday. The University of Denver alum boasts a promising future, but for immediate redraft fantasy impact this season, patience might be required. Unless he can miraculously unseat Brock Faber on the top power play or Jared Spurgeon on the second, his numbers this year might lean towards the modest side, save for a surprising surge in blocked shots. Keep a watchful eye on training camp developments regarding special teams, but for now, consider him a foundational piece for dynasty and keeper leagues, rather than an instant gratification pick.

Matthew Schaefer, D, New York Islanders

“We`re going to give him time,” declared Islanders head coach Patrick Roy, a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates Matthew Schaefer`s rookie outlook. As the No. 1 overall pick from June who just turned 18 in September, `time` is precisely what this young defenseman needs. Schaefer is undoubtedly a franchise blueliner and a future star. While a full-time NHL slot this season feels unlikely, his long-term potential is immense. For dynasty and keeper league managers in full rebuild mode, snagging Schaefer now is akin to planting a mighty oak – its shade will be glorious in due time.

The infusion of new blood is the lifeblood of the NHL, and the 2025-26 season promises an exciting cohort of rookies ready to seize their moment. From the dazzling offensive artistry of Demidov and Misa to the blue-line might of Rinzel and Parekh, and the potential game-stealing heroics of Askarov and Merilainen, the landscape of professional hockey is perpetually refreshing. These aren`t just prospects; they are the architects of tomorrow`s highlights, the future captains, and for those astute enough to draft them, the key to unlocking fantasy championship glory. Keep these names close, watch their journeys unfold, and prepare to witness the evolution of the game.