The 2025 Memorial Cup: A Tournament Full of Promises
The 2025 Memorial Cup is approaching, and anticipation is high. This tournament stands out for the presence of young talents, some of whom could debut in the NHL next season. In fact, one of them is considered the first overall pick for the 2026 draft.
The event will feature elite players, from forwards with the potential to score 30 goals in the NHL to defensemen who could be mainstays on the league’s defensive lines for years. The level of talent on display surpasses that of previous editions. Each game promises excitement and players that NHL fans will follow closely.
Below, a team-by-team analysis of the most outstanding prospects, including scouting notes:
London Knights (OHL)
Easton Cowan, Toronto Maple Leafs
Easton Cowan, with a playoff points record for the London Knights, is a key player on the team. His aggressive playing style, combined with his skill, makes him a fundamental piece. He is expected to be a focal point in the tournament.
Kasper Halttunen, San Jose Sharks
Halttunen, the OHL playoffs MVP, is a player with a high-quality shot and the ability to score from a distance. His ability to deflect pucks and attack the net makes him a constant threat. He is expected to be one of the most outstanding offensive players in the tournament.
O’Reilly, a versatile center, stands out for his ability to neutralize the opponent’s best players and for his skill in defensive play. His dedication and ability to recover the puck make him a key player in critical situations.
Sam Dickinson, San Jose Sharks
Dickinson is an offensive defenseman projected to be a top-pairing defenseman in the NHL. His playmaking ability and skating skill make him a valuable player. He is expected to play a significant role at both ends of the ice.
Oliver Bonk, Philadelphia Flyers
Bonk is a defender who prioritizes defense, with an ability to close spaces and force errors. His defensive play will be crucial to face the best players in the tournament.
Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
Cayden Lindstrom, Columbus Blue Jackets
After missing a year due to injury, Lindstrom will look to make an impact at the Memorial Cup. His ability to protect the puck, attack the center, and be a constant threat will be crucial for his team. He is a key factor for Medicine Hat’s success.
Gavin McKenna, 2026 draft prospect
McKenna, with exceptional offensive skills and a great sense of hockey, is one of the most talented players in the tournament. His ability to create plays and turn defenders into obstacles makes him a unique player. If Medicine Hat aspires to win, McKenna must lead the offense.
Ritchie, a consistent player, is an offensive threat with a good shot and playmaking ability. His ability to facilitate the game and create opportunities makes him a key player in the team’s center.
Basha, a dynamic player with speed and the ability to score and create plays, will be fundamental in Medicine Hat’s offensive production. His ability to elevate his teammates’ game makes him a valuable player.
Tanner Molendyk, Nashville Predators
Molendyk, an elite defenseman, stands out for his ability to defend and move the puck. His transition game and his ability to neutralize offensive talent make him a high-level defenseman, key to the team.
Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL)
Mathieu Cataford, Vegas Golden Knights
Cataford, a complete player, will be key for the host team. His impact on pressure, his ability to facilitate offensive play, and his capacity to take quick shots make him a valuable player in all areas.
Jacob Mathieu, Undrafted Free Agent
Mathieu, the top scorer in the QMJHL playoffs, will look to impress to get an invitation to an NHL development camp. His ability to produce and lead the offense will be crucial for Rimouski.
Spencer Gill, Philadelphia Flyers
Gill, a right defender, could be a significant factor if he recovers from an ankle injury. His presence in the lineup would be a major boost for the home team.
Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
Caleb Desnoyers, prospect for the 2025 draft
Desnoyers, a versatile player with excellent hands and playmaking ability, will have the opportunity to impress scouts. His performance could influence his draft position.
Smith, a burly center, is a net threat, with a proven ability to deflect the puck and finish plays. His physique allows him to dominate matchups and create impact with his actions.
Juraj Pekarcik, St. Louis Blues
Pekarcik, an intelligent player, stands out for his ability to execute plays at high speed. His ability to read defensive coverage and attack spaces makes him a valuable player on offense.
Morin, one of the best defensemen in the QMJHL playoffs, is a catalyst from defense for Moncton. His ability to direct the power play, his shot threat, and his ability to facilitate opportunities for his teammates make him a key player.
