2024 NHL Draft: Top Undrafted Players and Future Prospects

The NHL draft is an imperfect process, with most players never stepping onto NHL ice. Even fewer reach the 200-game mark, often seen as the benchmark for "making it" in the league.

NHL teams make mistakes, a concept fans are well aware of. This is evident in the draft, where some picks never pan out while undrafted players like Jonathan Marchessault, Artemi Panarin, and Sergei Bobrovsky become stars. Let's look at some of the best undrafted players who could break into an NHL lineup and potentially achieve stardom.

Tomas Galvas, D, Liberec (Czech)

A smooth skater and puck-mover, Galvas was expected to be a late-round pick. Despite his defensive weaknesses, his offensive skills surpass many defenders drafted this year. His exclusion is surprising given his high upside.

Topias Hynninen, LW, Jukurit (Finland)

Hynninen's intelligence and work ethic stood out in the Finnish men's league. Though not flashy, his detailed and consistent play made him a solid candidate for the draft.

Ludvig Johnson, LHD, Zug Jr. (Swiss)

Johnson's mobility and offensive abilities shone in Swiss junior hockey and the U-18 World Championship. Though undrafted, his skill set suggests he could make an impact in the future.

Daniil Ustinkov, LHD, Zurich (Swiss)

Ustinkov's defensive game and puck-moving skills should have secured him a draft spot. Despite his lack of flashiness, his effectiveness and intelligence make him a notable omission.

Daniel Nieminen, LHD, Lahti Jr. (Finland)

After a strong U-18 performance, Nieminen seemed poised for a mid-to-late round selection. His mobility and reliable passing make him an intriguing overager with potential for growth.

Marcus Kearsey, LHD, Charlottetown (QMJHL)

Kearsey's size and offensive output in the QMJHL may have contributed to his undrafted status. However, his pace and poise with the puck highlight a promising skill set worth developing.

Petter Vesterheim, C, Mora (Sweden)

Vesterheim, an overage player, has shown intelligence and playmaking ability on the international stage. His performances in the World Junior and Men's Championships highlight his potential to excel at higher levels.

Artyom Shchuchinov, LHD, Traktor Chelyabinsk (KHL)

Shchuchinov is a skilled passer who plays comfortably in the KHL. Despite his sub-six-foot stature, his ability to evade pressure and make smart plays should have earned him a draft spot.

Frankie Marrelli, LHD, Ottawa (OHL)

Marrelli, an undersized defensive player, didn't showcase his offensive skills this year. Though expected to be a top-50 pick, his exclusion highlights the draft's unpredictability.

Aidan Park, C, Shattuck St. Mary's (USHS)

Drafting prep school players is risky, and Park's effective forechecking and simple play style may have prompted teams to wait. Committed to the University of Michigan, he has time to prove his worth.

Alexander Zetterberg, C, Orebro Jr. (Sweden)

Zetterberg's skill and playmaking abilities are notable, but his size and difficulty playing through traffic led to his undrafted status. Despite these challenges, his potential to reach the NHL remains.