Kimball Union Academy is expected to be one of the top teams in prep hockey during the 2026–27 season. After winning the Elite 8 championship in 2024 and the Small School championship in 2025, the Wildcats are looking to make another deep postseason run under head coach Tim Whitehead.
Players to Watch
Senior forward Conal Mulkerrin is expected to lead the Wildcats offensively after recording 30 points in 36 games last season. Princeton commit Charlie MacLeod and Carter Cowan should also play important roles in the team's attack.
On defense, Thomas Ojard is expected to be a key contributor, playing in all situations. In goal, Luca Campo returns after an injury limited his previous season and is expected to provide stability as the Wildcats’ starting goaltender. He’ll be backed up by Paco Souther, an elite 2010-born goaltender who gives Kimball Union additional depth and promising potential between the pipes.
Key Newcomers
Kimball Union adds several talented players who could make an immediate impact. Forwards Sam Ryan and Calvin Carver bring speed and skill, while Czech forward Tomas Jan Mraz Vyhnalek adds experience from the Czech U20 league.
On defense, Gabe Walker and Antonio Lombardo are expected to earn significant roles. Walker is coming off an impressive season with 40 points in 38 games for the Fredericton Caps U18 team.
Breakout Candidates
Dawson Wood is one of the Wildcats' most promising young forwards. After recording nine goals and 19 points in 29 games last season, he is expected to take another step forward. Defenseman Christian Toma could also become one of the team's most reliable players in all situations.
Season Outlook
With an experienced roster, talented newcomers and one of the strongest coaches in prep hockey, Kimball Union has the potential to compete for another championship. The Wildcats are projected to be a top-three team and should be among the favorites to reach the Elite 8.
If their key players perform as expected and the team develops strong chemistry, Kimball Union has a legitimate chance to win the Elite 8 title in 2026–27.Oct 15, 2026 
The Hockey NewsThe defensive pipelines across the United States are seeing a massive surge in modern, highly mobile blueliners. As the 2010 birth class navigates their crucial AAA and prep school seasons, scouts are intensely monitoring the prospects climbing the national ladder.
According to the official national database ranking from ProdigyChain, here is an in-depth scouting breakdown of the top ten 2010-born defensemen making waves across the country:The Top 10 Breakdown
- 1. Ivan Belikov (Overall World Rank: #3) — Sitting at the absolute top of the national pile, Belikov is a premier elite prospect on the global radar. He dominates play with an elite blend of defensive IQ, composure, and a world-class transitional game.
- 2. Max Lappan (Overall World Rank: #7) — Securing the number two spot in the nation, Lappan is a highly dynamic blueliner who pairs excellent skating mechanics with the offensive flair to consistently generate chances from the point.
- 3. Marc Ruggere (Overall World Rank: #8) — A top-ten global talent who brings relentless competitiveness and physical readiness to the ice, allowing him to shut down top-line forwards with ease.
- 4. Nikolai Zhukov (Overall World Rank: #11) — Knocking on the door of the top ten worldwide, Zhukov is highly scouted for his raw athletic tools, high motor, and ability to handle heavy workloads under high-pressure sequences.
- 5. Logan Cotter (Overall World Rank: #13) — A standout performer who combines sharp depth management in his own zone with crisp, explosive outlet passing that fuels his team's counter-attack.
- 6. Aiden Ali (Overall World Rank: #25) — Known for his exceptional positional soundness and edge work, Ali serves as a clinical, multi-situational anchor on the blue line.
- 7. Drew Daley (Overall World Rank: #26) — A highly projectable defenseman who plays an aggressive but controlled style, using his agility to close gaps quickly and challenge shooters at the top of the zone.
- 8. Brodie Anderson (Overall World Rank: #50) — Rounding out the top 50 in the world, Anderson is a fundamentally sound, steady presence on the back end, prized for his consistent puck-tracking and smart rebound suppression.
- 9. Jack Hair (Overall World Rank: #51) — A highly competitive, gritty defenseman who excels in physical battles along the boards and thrives in chaotic net-front sequences.
- 10. Marco Cinque (Overall World Rank: Outside Top 51 World) — A composed, modern breed of defenseman who reads the game exceptionally well and acts as a smooth quarterback on power-play setups.
The Road AheadFor this elite tier of 2010-born defensemen, the upcoming 12 to 24 months are monumental. As they actively enter the radar for the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP) evaluation camps and the Futures Drafts for the United States Hockey League (USHL), these blueliners are establishing the exact modern frameworks required to project as future NCAA Division I and professional prospects.Aug 31, 2026 The Hockey News The 2010 birth year for American hockey talent is showcasing exceptional depth among elite forward prospects. Navigating crucial 15U and 16U AAA seasons, a recent national ranking featured on ProdigyChain highlights the top ten 2010-born forwards across the country.The Top 10 Breakdown
- 1. Aiden Kelly: Ranked at the top for his lethal blend of elite hockey sense and dynamic puck skills, controlling the pace of play.
- 2. Christopher Pinko: Known for high-octane offensive instincts and clinical finishing ability as an undisputed premier forward.
- 3. Austin Hall: A powerhouse on the Michigan AAA circuit who excels at playmaking under heavy pressure off the rush.
- 4. Owen Kraft: A modern, multi-situational forward recognized for high-IQ positioning and seamless transition play.
- 5. Henry Meier: Plays a controlled, creative style utilizing agility and vision to distribute the puck with surgical precision.
- 6. Dylan Delgado: Brings a relentless competitive edge, explosive skating, and strong north-south drive.
- 7. MJ Campbell: Noted for extreme consistency, edge control, and puck protection in traffic against tier-1 competition.
- 8. Ben Slavick: A creative winger recognized for swift lateral movement and a deceptive release.
- 9. Joey Cullen: Widely regarded for a high motor, game-breaking agility, and manufacturing scoring chances in high-pressure sequences.
- 10. Evan Zachgo: Positionally sound and composed, acting as an elite quarterback on the power play.
The Road AheadThe upcoming 12 to 24 months are critical as these players enter the radar for NTDP evaluation camps and USHL Futures Drafts. This top 10 group has established the foundation required to project as future NCAA Division I and professional prospects.Aug 31, 2026 The Hockey News The pipeline for elite American goaltending has never looked more robust, and the 2010 birth year is proving to be a fascinating battleground for future crease-creepers. As these players navigate their crucial 15U and 16U AAA seasons, scouts across the United States are tracking their developmental curves closely. A recent community ranking spotlighted on Elite Prospects highlights the top ten 2010-born net minders making waves in the junior and prep school ranks. From clinical USHL prospects to high-school standouts, here is an in-depth look at the names you need to know.
The Top 10 Breakdown
1. Chase Pastor (Chicago Steel)
Sitting at the top of the pile is Chase Pastor. Playing within the prestigious Chicago Steel development umbrella is a massive badge of honor for a player of this age. The Steel have a storied reputation for optimizing high-IQ, modern players, and Pastor's inclusion here indicates he has the technical foundation and composure to handle high-level shooters early in his career.
2.Will Torres (Masters Academy Int.)
Consistently ranked near the very peak of his birth class, Will Torres takes the number two spot. Known for his technical positioning and athletic recovery,Torres has built a reputation as a highly reliable anchor. His development at Masters Academy Int. continues to showcase his ability to steal games against top-tier competition.
3. Alex Annunziato (Jersey Hitmen 18U AAA)
Annunziato is playing well above his age bracket on a Jersey Hitmen 18U AAA squad, which speaks volumes about his maturity and physical readiness. Facing older, stronger shooters on a daily basis accelerated his reaction times and forced him to master depth management in his crease.
4. Mitchell Lutz (Cleveland Barons 15U AAA)
A standout performer in Tier 1 Elite hockey circles, Lutz is the definition of a steady, competitive presence for the Cleveland Barons. He tracks the puck incredibly well through traffic and excels at eliminating second-chance opportunities with excellent rebound control.
5. Sebastian Duarte (Cape Cod Whalers 15U AAA)
Representing the talent-rich New England region, Duarte has been a focal point for the Cape Cod Whalers. He plays an aggressive but controlled style, using his athleticism to cut off angles and challenge shooters at the top of his paint.
6. Viktor Szchur (Framingham High)
Making his mark in the highly competitive Massachusetts high school hockey scene, Szchur brings excellent size and a physical presence to the position. He is heavily scouted for his raw athletic tools and his ability to carry a heavy workload under the bright lights of public school hockey.
7.Benjamin Art (Albany Academy)
Art is developing his craft in the rigorous prep school circuit with Albany Academy. Prep hockey demands extreme consistency and mental toughness, two traits that Art has shown in spades. His ability to stay square to the puck and command his defensive zone makes him a highly projectable prospect.
8. Francisco Souther (Kimball Union Academy)
Another premier prep school product, Souther defends the net for the powerhouse Kimball Union Academy. Playing for a program known for producing NCAA and professional talent gives Souther a high-exposure platform, and his technical refinement has moved him firmly in the national top ten, after previously being ranked 11th his performance has bumped him up and will continue to do so if he continues on the trajectory he is on.
9. Senji Kimura (NV River Rats 15U AAA)
Kimora has been a vital force for the North Jersey River Rats. He is highly regarded for his lateral quickness and explosive post-to-post movements. Kimura thrives in chaotic, high-pressure sequences, frequently making acrobatic saves when the structure breaks down.
10. Jesse Bernardinelli (St. John's Prep)
Rounding out the top ten is Bernardinelli, playing for the historic St. John's Prep program. He represents the clinical, modern breed of goaltender—composed, positionally sound, and excellent at reading the tactical setups of opposing power plays.
The Road Ahead
For these 2010-born goaltenders, the next 12 to 24 months are critical. This age group is actively entering the radar for the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP) evaluation camps and the Futures Drafts for the United States Hockey League (USHL). While goaltender development is famously non-linear—often favoring late bloomers who hit their growth spurts later—this top 10 group has established the framework required to project as future NCAA Division I and professional prospects.Aug 31, 2026 The Hockey News The New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) continues to serve as a primary launchpad for NCAA Division I and NHL talent. As elite programs gear up for the upcoming winter hockey season, a highly touted cluster of 2009-born prospects are transitioning from depth underclassmen into franchise anchors. Scouts tracking independent prep and split-season AAA programs have highlighted five primary names who are primed to command the recruiting trail: Marshall Paul, Elliott Watson, Devin Cokinos, Kanata Mori and Landon Nickulas.
What makes this specific group unique is their shared chemistry: they all played together at Cardigan Mountain School 2024-2025, anchoring what is widely considered the best Cougar varsity team to ever exist. That historic junior high powerhouse famously captured the Holiday Freshman Invitational title in dominant fashion, providing an early glimpse of the elite Tier-1 trajectories these players are on today. [1]Below is an in-depth developmental scouting report on each alumnus and the specific milestones to watch for this winter. Along with a few standout 2010-born players, including Jack Manley, Jaxon Fraser, and Paco Souther, who was the backbone of the team in net and came up with several game-stealing performances.
Marshall Paul | Defenseman | Avon Old Farms School
The Scouting ReportStanding at a physically imposing 6'2" and 194 lbs, Marshall Paul is a premier shutdown defensive anchor for the Avon Old Farms Winged Beavers. His numbers at Cardigan were 20 goals and 19 assists in 28 games. Known for combining advanced physical mechanics with tight gap control, Paul excels at suffocating opposing transition rushes early and maintaining absolute structural command of his own zone. He underpins his defensive stability with an elite first pass, remaining completely unbothered by heavy forechecking pressure.
Last Season Snapshot
As a freshman/sophomore component of Avon Old Farms' elite blue line, Paul logged steady varsity minutes and showcased the rare positional maturity required to play on a senior-heavy NEPSAC Elite 8 Championship squad. His high-caliber performances earned him a high second-round selection (30th overall) by theCedar Rapids Rough Riders in the Phase II USHL Draft, alongside an invite to USA Hockey's prestigious Player Development Camp.
What to Look For Next Year
- Top-Pairing Responsibility: With defensive stalwarts moving on to the junior ranks, Paul is projected to graduate directly into a top-pairing role, absorbing heavy situational minutes against opposing top lines.
- NCAA Division I Bidding War: As a premium right-shot defenseman with modern size and high-end hockey IQ, expect Paul to be a marquee target for elite Hockey East and ECAC programs.
Elliott Watson | Defenseman | Salisbury School
The Scouting Report
Elliott Watson represents the modern archetype of the mobile, transition-heavy defenseman. Watson had 29 goals 26 assists in 28 games in 2025 with the Cougars. Skating for the Salisbury School Crimson Knights, the right-shot blue-liner commands the game through exceptional lateral mobility and high-end vision. Watson operates with maximum efficiency on breakouts, displaying the poise to skate the puck out of danger or stretch the ice with precise breakout feeds.
Last Season Snapshot
Watson adjusted effortlessly to the physical rigors of the NEPSAC circuit during the last winter campaign, recording 20 points across 30 varsity games for Salisbury. His exceptional dual-threat ability as a puck-mover forced scouts to take notice, culminating in his selection by the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders in the USHL Entry Draft.
What to Look For Next Year
- Power-Play Quarterback: Watson is heavily projected to take total control of Salisbury’s top power-play unit. Look for his goal-scoring numbers from the blue line to step forward as he increases his shot volume.
- Junior Hockey Acceleration: Scouts will be evaluating how cleanly his skating and puck-distribution translate to the fast-paced USHL timeline as Cedar Rapids monitors his prep school progression.
Devin Cokinos | Forward | Salisbury School
The Scouting Report
Devin Cokinos is a dynamic, highly deceptive forward who serves as an offensive engine alongside Watson at Salisbury School. At Cardigan he put up a school record of 42 goals and 21 assists is only 28 games. Measuring in with added muscle on a newly registered 159 lb frame, Cokinos utilizes exceptional straight-line speed, quick acceleration, and rapid stick handling to slide through defensive structures unscathed. He is highly regarded for his dangerous playmaker instinct off the rush.
Last Season Snapshot
Cokinos emerged as a clutch underclassman threat on a historically senior-heavy Salisbury roster. He posted 17 points over 31 regular-season contests, punctuated by standout performances against top-tier league rivals like Taft School, which consistently earned him game star recognitions.
What to Look For Next Year
- Top-Six Offensive Catalyst: Cokinos is positioned to command prime real estate in Salisbury’s top six forward group. Expect him to drive his own line, with a strong emphasis on surpassing the 35-point threshold.
- Physical Adaptability: Watch how Cokinos utilizes his recent physical growth to win interior ice and handle heavy cycling down low against older NEPSAC defenders.
Kanata Mori | Forward | Holderness School
The Scouting Report
Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Kanata Mori is the #1 ranked 2009 in Japan. Mori had 27 goals and 25 assists with Cardigan. He is an explosive, high-octane international winger playing for the Holderness School Bulls. Mori plays a fearless, relentless brand of hockey, combining creative, east-west puck manipulation with a devastating release. He possesses elite offensive instincts, showing an innate ability to find soft spots inside the dots and capitalize on minimal space.
Last Season Snapshot
Mori put together a spectacular campaign on all fronts. He recorded 23 points in 30 varsity games to anchor the Holderness offense all the way to the NEPSAC Small School Championship game. He followed his prep success by absolutely dominating theIIHF U18 World Championship (Division II Group A), single-handedly capturing the tournament scoring title with 11 points in 5 games and earning the Tournament's Best Forward honor.
What to Look For Next Year
- NEPSAC Scoring Race Contender: Backed by international confidence and elite varsity experience, Mori enters the winter as a prime candidate to challenge for the NEPSAC small-school scoring crown.
- North American Junior Interest: Following his international explosion, expect CHL (Major Junior) or Tier-1 USHL programs to heavily court Mori as a potential high-impact import forward.
Landon Nickulas | Defenseman | Cushing Academy
The Scouting Report
Landon Nickulas is a smooth-skating, highly intelligent left-shot defenseman who commands the back end for Cushing Academy. He had 7 goals and a team leading 30 assists in 28 games at Cardigan. The son of former NHLer Eric Nickulas, Landon possesses elite processing speed and spatial awareness. Coaches praise his fluid edge work and east-west mobility, which allow him to escape heavy forechecks efficiently and transition the puck into high-scoring chances out of the defensive zone. [1, 2, 3]
Last Season Snapshot
After shining as a key builder on the legendary Cardigan team, Nickulas transitioned to the high-caliber prep environment at Cushing Academy. He suited up for 26 varsity games as an underclassman, providing steady positional depth and composure on a deep roster. His high-end upside was solidified when the Muskegon Lumberjacks selected him in the USHL Futures Draft. [1, 2]
What to Look For Next Year
- Stepping Into a Top-Four Role: Armed with a year of varsity adaptation, Nickulas is expected to take on expanded defensive minutes and transition responsibilities for Cushing.
- USHL Evaluation: Look for Muskegon's scouting staff to monitor his deployment closely as he physically matures and uses his elite edge work to impact the game at both ends of the ice. [1]
The 2010-born group has also begun to make its mark at the next level, with Jack Manley continuing at Cardigan Mountain School, Jaxon Fraser moving to the Fredericton Caps U18 AAA program, and goaltender Paco Souther establishing himself at Kimball Union Academy.
- Jack Manley — Continues with Cardigan Mountain School, where he has developed into an offensive contributor. His 2025–26 profile lists 27 games, 23 goals, and 37 points. (Elite Prospects)
- Jaxon Fraser — Moved on from Cardigan and played for the Fredericton Caps U18 AAA in 2025–26, recording 9 goals and 7 assists in 26 games. (Elite Prospects)
- Paco Souther — Now at Kimball Union Academy, as a repeat freshman. His 2025 varsity numbers at Cardigan were a 1.72 GAA and .922 save percentage with a solid 14-3-1 record and 1 shutout. (NCSA Sports)Aug 22, 2026 The Hockey News The departure of top-line center Josh Phillips leaves a massive offensive void for head coach Tim Whitehead, but the Wildcats retain a highly competitive, veteran core. The updated roster on the Elite Prospects Kimball Union Team Profile locks in the returning class through 2027, anchored by a newly confirmed starting goaltender and hungry talent rising through the ranks. Below is the revised analysis of each returning player and their expected role for the upcoming USHS-Prep season:
Returning Goaltenders
Luca Campo (G)
The Report: Campo has officially been named the starting goaltender for the Wildcats. After surgery he is entering his senior year, he takes over the crease full-time, providing elite composure, varsity experience, and a steady presence to lead the team from the back end.
Francisco "Paco" Souther (G)
The Report: Entering his sophomore year, Souther is nationally ranked #11 for all 2010-born goalies. The highly touted hybrid netminder acts as a premier number-two option, creating one of the deepest goaltending tandems in prep hockey, pushing the starter daily, and managing a strong share of the workload.
Returning Forwards
Conal Mulkerrin (F)
The Report: With Phillips not returning, Mulkerrin becomes KUA’s highest-scoring returning forward after logging an impressive 0.83 points-per-game average last winter. He is expected to take over first-line duties, bringing heavy physical play and lethal power-play finishing.
Charlie MacLeod (LW)
The Report: MacLeod posted a strong 0.63 points-per-game clip last season, recently committing to Princeton University. His blistering speed and excellent puck-tracking skills make him a prime candidate to step directly into a top-line role to recoup lost offensive production.
Lucas Gaudette (F)
The Report: Gaudette is officially stepping into the spotlight as a sophomore after playing on the Junior Varsity (JV) squad last year. His offseason development signals a massive jump, having spent the summer training on a high-intensity circuit under the watchful eye of scout John Rose alongside friend and goaltender Paco Souther. The two sophomores have been doing their offseason training together at a private gym in New Hampshire under Wayne Burwell. This high-level training exposure and scouting attention make him a wild-card candidate to secure a major varsity role.
Christopher St-Phard (LW)
The Report: St-Phard is a gritty, defensive forward who played a vital two-way role last season (0.19 PPG). He remains the structural backbone of the forward group, anchoring the penalty kill and matching up against opposing top lines.
Mikhail Dormidontov (F)
The Report: Serving primarily in a depth role last winter (0.03 PPG), Dormidontov is poised for a significant minutes increase. The vacated spots in the top-nine give him a clear opportunity to establish himself as a steady offensive contributor.
Returning Defensemen
Nasean Faria (D)
The Report: Faria is the defensive corps' top offensive catalyst, generating 0.41 points per game last winter. He will run the top power-play unit, using his elite vision to orchestrate the offense from the blue line.
Thomas Ojard (D)
The Report: Ojard is a reliable, smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman who averaged 0.28 points per game last year. He plays standard-setting gap control and delivers clean breakout passes to ignite the rush.
Aaron Sheck (D)
The Report: Sheck is a solid stay-at-home defenseman who posted 0.19 points per game last season. He is the ultimate safety valve on the blue line, known for clearing the crease and neutralizing physical forechecks.
Christian Toma (D)
The Report: Toma provides key rotational depth on the bottom pairings (0.08 PPG). His veteran familiarity ensures defensive discipline and seamless line cohesion when injuries hit the defensive rotation.Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News When evaluating the premier defensive architects of the 2010 birth year, Logan Cotter commands a top-tier national spotlight. The Marlborough, MA native has been a dominant presence on the ProdigyChain index, scoring a massive 2,941 ProdigyPoints to secure the #2 overall spot among all Massachusetts-born defensemen. [1]
Cotter’s recent whirlwind of high-profile milestones demonstrates why he is widely regarded as a lock for future pro consideration.The Historic USHL Tender & Blue-Chip NCAA CommitmentWhile most 16-year-old defensemen are left waiting for late junior draft rounds, Cotter's value forced a premier Tier-1 franchise to act early. In May 2026, the Green Bay Gamblers signed Cotter to a USHL tender agreement. This aggressive move was historic, marking the first time Green Bay used a tender asset on a defenseman in nearly 15 years. [1]
His stock skyrocketed even higher on August 1st, 2026, when the high-stakes NCAA live recruiting window opened. Cotter immediately became one of the first blue-chip prospects in the country to lock down his collegiate future, announcing his verbal commitment to the Northeastern University Huskies. [1]
Technical Evaluation
Cotter splits his time dominating with the East Coast Militia 15U AAA program and St. Mark's School. Standing at 5'11" and 165 pounds, he represents the archetype of the modern, transition-oriented defenseman: [1]
- NHL-Caliber Stride: Independent evaluators from Elite Prospects note that Cotter possesses near-NHL-caliber skating mechanics. His four-way mobility allows him to dance along the blue line, creating open passing lanes out of thin air. [1]
- Rugged Two-Way Instincts: Despite his offensive puck-moving brilliance, Green Bay's coaching staff heavily values his "fierce competitor" mentality and rugged playing style, utilizing a heavy stick to stall oncoming rush attacks. [1]
Future Horizon
Stepping directly onto Green Bay's roster for the 2026-27 USHL season, Cotter is on the fast track to elite developmental exposure. He projects as a premier power-play quarterback for Northeastern and an immense target for the 2028 NHL Entry Draft. [1, 2, 3]Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News Few defensemen in the 2010 class match the winning pedigree and structural excellence of Drew Daley. A right-shot blueliner with an increasingly elite national profile, Daley has established himself as one of the ultimate shutdown pillars in amateur hockey, culminating in an invitation to the nation's premier development program.
A Resume Defined by Championship Jewelry
Daley’s ascent to the peak of the 2010 cohort is backed by massive, big-stage team success. Playing on the elite AAA circuit, Daley serves as a defensive workhorse whose play elevates when the lights are brightest.His resume over the past two calendar years stands alone:
- The National Crown: Daley anchored his squad to a USA Hockey Tier I 18U National Championship. Competing and winning at the 18U level as an underage 2010 birth year is an astronomical achievement that caught the immediate attention of federal evaluators. [1, 2]
- All-Tournament Honors: His lockdown play during the title run earned him a spot on the US 18U Nationals All-Tournament Team. [1]
- The Ultimate Call-Up: In August 2026, Daley officially checked in with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (NTDP), stepping directly onto the U17 national roster in Plymouth, Michigan to prepare for international competition. [1]
Technical EvaluationStanding 5'11" and 154 pounds, Daley is a cerebral, highly disciplined right-shot defenseman: [1]
- Flawless Gap Control: Daley's game is built on minimizing space. He reads oncoming rushes with high-end velocity, utilizing an elite stick-check to turn over pucks at the red line before transition attacks can form.
- Quiet, High-IQ Decisions: He rarely panics under physical pressure along the goal-line boards, executing crisp, low-risk breakout passes that allow his forwards to play fast through the neutral zone.
Future Horizon
As a cornerstone piece of the NTDP system, Daley will spend the next two seasons competing against USHL and international rosters. His profile matches the exact baseline that top-tier Hockey East and Big Ten programs prioritize, making him an elite prize for the 2028 NHL Entry Draft. [1, 2]Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News If you are looking for the absolute gold standard of defensive execution out of the New England youth hockey pipeline, Brodie Anderson sits on the throne. The highly mobile blueliner has officially claimed the #1 overall ranking for all 2010-born Massachusetts defensemen on the ProdigyChain national index, registering a masterclass score of 2,988 ProdigyPoints. [1]
His elite, modern skill set has made him an incredibly popular target across both American junior paths and Canadian major junior boards. [1]
The Twin Junior Horizons: QMJHL Draft and Prep Dominance
Anderson’s value is so high that his scouting footprint easily crossed international borders early. In June 2026, the Saint John Sea Dogs selected Anderson in the 7th round of the QMJHL Entry Draft, eager to secure the Canadian major junior rights to the elite American blueliner. [1]
However, Anderson’s long-term sights remain heavily locked into the traditional elite American pre-collegiate route:
- The AAA Foundation: Anderson spent his foundational development years logging heavy, top-pairing minutes for the Minuteman Flames 15U AAA program. [1]
- The Prep School Alliance: He has since transitioned his game seamlessly into the high-profile independent prep hockey ranks, skating as a premier underclassman defenseman for Masters Academy International. This aligns him on the exact same roster as top-3 national goalie prospect Will Torres, giving Masters Academy one of the most lethal 2010 defensive backbones in North America. [1, 2]
Technical Evaluation
Independent scouting profiles from The Scouting News describe Anderson as a beautifully well-rounded, mobile defenseman who influences the entire pacing of a shift. [1]
- Elite Athletic Base: He relies on highly efficient edge work to mirror elite attackers, closing down space along the boards with steady, composed execution. He proved this elite athletic standard at the USA Hockey Boys National 16 Camp, finishing as the #2 overall top-performing defender at the event. [1, 2]
- Rock-Solid Progression: Scouts tracking his matchups note his game is "breakout-driving," showing off stellar gap control and an urgency to move the puck cleanly through transition. [1]
Future Horizon
Holding the #1 spot on the Massachusetts Prodigy index makes Anderson an automatic high-priority target for the USHL Phase II Draft pool. As he continues to mature alongside Torres at Masters Academy International, his elite profile ensures he will be heavily courted by high-end ECAC and Hockey East collegiate programs looking for a true blue-line franchise anchor. [1, 2]Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News While Cullen and Kelly dominate AAA and national tournament headlines, Blake Wilichowski represents the elite tier of the New England Prep school circuit. Skating for Milton Academy, Wilichowski plays an identical long-term developmental strategy to Francisco Souther, emerging as one of the most intelligent uncommitted forwards in the region. [1, 2, 3]
The Prep Breakthrough
Wilichowski's 2025–2026 campaign was highlighted by major institutional recognitions, capped off by being officially named to the Neutral Zone All-Prep Awards list. To earn All-Prep status as an underclassman while playing against 18 and 19-year-old opponents requires a special level of maturity. Wilichowski has served as the offensive focal point for a Milton Academy program heavily scouted by Hockey East and Ivy League institutions. [1]Technical EvaluationWilichowski is a cerebral, highly effective playmaking forward who thrives in high-traffic situations.
- Puck Possession & Pace: He plays an incredibly heavy, possession-style game along the boards. He uses advanced edge-work to shield the puck from older, physically mature defensemen, maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.
- Playmaking Vision: Wilichowski excels at driving the play below the dots, holding onto the puck an extra half-second to force opposing defensive structures to collapse before feeding cross-seam passes to oncoming wingers.
- High Hockey IQ: His defensive responsibilities and track-back awareness make him a highly dependable three-zone asset whom coaches rely on in late-game situations.
Future Horizon
Wilichowski sits on the premium NCAA timeline. Because he plays in the heart of the New England Prep landscape, his stock is incredibly high among ECAC and Hockey East evaluators. He projects as a high-priority selection for the upcoming USHL Phase II Draft once he completes his upperclassman campaign at Milton.Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News If Joey Cullen is the class’s premier structural center, Aiden Kelly is its most explosive, pure offensive weapon. Holding down the #3 overall spot on the national ranking index, the Rochester, Michigan native has terrorized AAA youth hockey circuits, firmly cementing his status as a premier game-changer. [1, 2, 3]
Bypassing College:
The OHL Priority PickWhile most 2010 prospects play a waiting game with NCAA eligibility, Kelly made waves across the hockey world by electing to sign a standard player agreement in the Canadian Hockey League. Selected 20th overall in the first round of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection by the Brantford Bulldogs, Kelly officially committed his future to major junior hockey. [1]His numbers leading into the draft explain why OHL general managers were desperate to claim his rights:
- The 164-Point Season: At the U14 level, Kelly put up an astronomical 164 points.
- The 15U AAA Standard: He followed that up by racking up 35 points in 20 games for the elite Detroit Little Caesars 15U AAA program, followed by a dominant 12-point showing at the OHL Cup. [1]
Technical Evaluation
Kelly is a 6'0", 181 lb right-shot forward who processes offense at a faster rate than almost any teenager in North America. [1, 2]
- Explosive First Step: His first three skating strides allow him to burst through neutral-zone traps with ease. [1]
- The Slot Threat: According to PuckPreps scouting dossiers, Kelly is an undeniable threat from the hashmarks in. Give him an inch of space in tight coverage, and he executes an elite, deceptive release from awkward angles. [1, 2]
- Offensive Versatility: Brantford’s front office explicitly noted that Kelly "scores and brings offense in every single way imaginable", mapping out as a primary power-play trigger-man. [1, 2]
Future Horizon
By stepping directly into the OHL as a 16-year-old first-round pick, Kelly will immediately face NHL-drafted defensemen. His path is linear, hyper-competitive, and designed to position him as a high-end NHL Entry Draft selection by 2028. [1]Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News When analyzing the supreme blue-chip talents of the 2010 generation, Joey Cullen sits unchallenged at the absolute peak. The Moorhead, Minnesota native has captured the definitive #1 overall skater ranking on the ProdigyChain index. His meteoric rise over the past year has transformed him from a regional hockey prodigy into an internationally recognized phenom. [1, 2]
A Historic Summer and Blue-Chip NCAA Commitment
Cullen’s status is validated by milestones that separate him entirely from his peer group. In August 2026, he officially announced a verbal commitment to the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, following in the footsteps of his brother Wyatt Cullen (a 1st-round Nashville Predators NHL draft pick). [1, 2]Even more historically, Cullen became the first-ever U17 underclassman named to Team USA’s roster for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, a tournament typically reserved for older players. This comes directly on the heels of a dominant double-campaign where he shredded the Minnesota High School Hockey circuit with 40 points in 18 games for the state-champion Moorhead Spuds, while simultaneously anchoring Honeybaked 15U AAA with 52 points in 21 games. [1]
Technical Evaluation
Cullen is the quintessential modern 200-foot center. Scouts from Elite Prospects note that he was the single most dominant force at the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (NTDP) Evaluation Camp. [1, 2]
- Elite Separation Speed: His skating technique features a massive, low-profile stride that produces instantaneous separation. [1]
- Puck Protection and Manipulation: He operates with rare intelligence, frequently backtracking to pull defenders toward him before exploiting hidden passing lanes. [1]
- Defensive Prowess: Cullen is as elite defensively as he is offensively, using advanced stick-lifts and tactical steals to kill opponent transitions before they cross the blue line. [1]
Future Horizon
As the centerpiece of the U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP) U17 roster, Cullen is pacing toward an incredibly high ceiling. He is tracking heavily as a projected top-5 pick for the 2028 NHL Entry Draft. [1]Aug 21, 2026 The Hockey News Evaluating teenage goaltenders is one of the most difficult tasks in hockey scouting. At age 16, growth spurts, technical tweaks, and changing team environments make player projection highly volatile. However, as the 2010 birth year transitions into the crucial pre-college development window, three distinct names have separated themselves at the peak of the United States goalie rankings. While Chase Pastor, Will Torres, and Francisco Souther all occupy the elite echelon of their class, they achieve their success through completely different tactical identities. Here is an analytical breakdown of how "The Big Three" match up.1. The Clinical Anchor: Chase Pastor (Chicago Steel, USHL)
- The Profile: Sitting at the #1 overall spot in the national rankings, Pastor is the definitive pacemaker of the 2010 class. His jump straight into the Tier-1 junior ranks with the Chicago Steel at age 16 is a feat rarely accomplished by modern netminders.
- The Style: Pastor is a master of depth management and structural discipline. He relies on an incredibly quiet upper body and pristine positional tracking, meaning he rarely has to make a "desperation" save because he is already square to the puck. His recent international performance—backstopping Team USA to a gold medal at the Four Nations Tournament with a 35-save masterpiece against Czechia—proved his technical blueprint holds up under heavy, older pace.
2. The Kinetic Game-Breaker: Will Torres (Masters Academy International)
- The Profile: Sitting firmly in the top three, Torres represents the highest athletic ceiling in the draft class. He is widely considered by independent scouts to be one of the absolute best pure skaters in the country, regardless of position.
- The Style: Where Pastor relies on textbook positioning, Torres thrives on kinetic explosion and high-end instinct. He is a dynamic, modern hybrid goaltender who can completely erase defensive breakdowns. His legendary 59-save performance at the 15U National Championships against Bishop Kearney cemented his reputation as a big-game goalie who can carry a team on his back when heavily outshot. His recovery speed post-to-post is currently unmatched in his age group.
3. The Modern Pipeline Standard: Francisco Souther (Kimball Union Academy)
- The Profile: Rounding out the top tier at #11 nationally, Souther is the quintessential New England prep powerhouse product. By passing the early junior jump to anchor himself at Kimball Union Academy, Souther is playing a patient, long-term developmental game that high-end NCAA Division I schools heavily covet.
- The Style: Souther blends size, length, and acute situational awareness. Already tracking with a 6'0" frame and a highly projectable 73-inch wingspan, he fills a massive portion of the net while maintaining highly controlled edge work. Training locally within high-stakes scouting circuits (such as skating with USHL/QMJHL evaluator John Rose), Souther’s game is built for longevity. He excels at box control, using his length to seal off the ice while staying perfectly upright to take away the top corners of the net.
Scouting Verdict: The NCAA / Junior OutlookThe divergence in their paths highlights the beauty of goalie development:
- Pastor is on the accelerated track, already adjusting to the hyper-fast USHL environment.
- Torres is the wildcard draft priority whose raw athletic toolkit will make him a massive target for Tier-1 junior teams looking for a franchise changer.
- Souther is the steady, high-IQ prep anchor whose frame and local scouting alignment make him a premium candidate for an elite Hockey East or ECAC Division I verbal commitment when the NCAA window opens.
Whether a team prefers structural perfection, elite athleticism, or projectable size and patience, these three netminders represent the absolute gold standard of the American 2010 generation.Aug 20, 2026 The Hockey News If Chase Pastor represents structural composure,Will Torres represents raw, kinetic, game-breaking capability. Sitting comfortably in the top tier of the national 2010 goaltending class, Torres—playing out ofMasters Academy International—has built a reputation as the most fundamentally athletic goalie in his birth year.When looking at the big three of the 2010 crop (Pastor, Torres, and Kimball Union's Francisco Souther), Torres is the goaltender capable of completely stealing a game when his team is outshot three-to-one.Standing on His Head at the NationalsTorres’s scouting profile is defined by an ability to elevate his game against the most lethal offenses in North America. Independent evaluators and scouts frequently point to his performance history at the US 15U National Championships as the gold standard of his pedigree:
- The 59-Save Epic: Against the powerhouse Bishop Kearney Selects 15U AAA squad, Torres put together an absurd 59-save performance.
- The Elite Skating Foundation: Scouts from outlets like Elite Prospects and The Scouting News note that Torres is arguably "one of the best skaters in the entire class" regardless of position. His feet are exceptionally quiet, allowing him to explode post-to-post without breaking his technical posture.
Technical EvaluationTorres relies heavily on quick reads, high-end hockey IQ, and explosive physical movements to handle broken plays. While he has the structural baseline to play a standard blocking style, his true gift is his recovery speed. If a puck bounces unexpectedly in the slot, Torres utilizes a powerful edge-push that allows him to cover the bottom half of the net faster than almost any other goalie in his age group.Future HorizonCurrently turning heads on the national circuit, Torres has established a profile that makes him a priority target for the upcoming USHL Phase II Draft and high-end NCAA evaluators. Much like Souther, his path is designed for a multi-year prep/junior runway that will inevitably culminate in a major Division I collegiate commitment.Aug 20, 2026 The Hockey News While teenage goalie development is notoriously difficult to project, certain prospects demand attention by simply winning at every level they touch.Chase Pastoris the definitive standard for the 2010 birth year. Holding down the#1 overall spotamong American netminders, the Burlington Township, NJ native has rapidly evolved from a dominant youth hockey standout into a legitimate major junior anchor.For those looking to analyze the absolute ceiling of the 2010 class, Pastor’s recent developmental milestones showcase why he occupies the top tier alongside names like Will Torres and Francisco Souther.The Chicago Steel Standard & International SpotlightUnlike most 16-year-old goalies who remain exclusively in prep or tier-1 youth leagues, Pastor has already cracked the ultimate tier-1 junior ecosystem. In August 2026, Pastor signed a Standard Player Development Agreement with the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League (USHL). Transitioning from the Woodbridge Wolfpack 15U AAA program straight onto a USHL roster at age 16 is a rare feat reserved for generational talents.His clinical play has already translated seamlessly onto the global stage:
- The Four Nations Championship: Backstopping the U.S. Under-17 Select Team in Chomutov, Czechia, Pastor went undefeated.
- Big-Game Clutch Gene: In the tournament's gold medal match against Czechia, Pastor weathered an early storm to put up a 35-save masterpiece through regulation and overtime. He then slammed the door shut by stopping all three shootout attempts to lock down the championship for the Americans.
Technical EvaluationPastor is a hyper-disciplined, structurally sound goaltender who thrives on positioning. Standing with an incredibly active, quiet upper body, he rarely over-commits to initial shots, allowing him to track deflections through dense traffic with elite visual acuity. His transition to the USHL style proves his lateral crease speed is already tracking at an eighteen-year-old level.Future HorizonBy stepping directly into the Chicago Steel net, Pastor is walking the identical development path that yielded past elite prospects. He is currently tracking as a virtual lock for a Tier-1, Blue-Chip NCAA Division I scholarship and stands at the absolute epicenter of NHL Entry Draft watchlists for his age demographic.Aug 20, 2026 The Hockey News The New England prep hockey circuit is famous for hiding high-end prospects in plain sight, but for those tracking elite 2010-born goaltenders, Francisco Southeris quickly becoming a name to watch. Currently developing out of the powerhouse Kimball Union Academy (KUA) program, Souther went undrafted in the recent 2026 QMJHL and USHL Phase I drafts—a standard reality for young American net minders committed to the prep school track. However, a look at his local training circuit reveals that major junior and top-tier US junior programs are keeping a very close eye on the Hanover, NH native. The Woodstock Connection: John Rose and the Scouting Pipeline Souther has recently been spotted on the ice in Woodstock, Vermont, skating directly under the watchful eye of veteran coach and scout John Rose. To the casual observer, this looks like standard off-season training at Union Arena. To an industry insider, this training alignment reveals exactly who holds the inside track on Souther’s development file. John Rose is one of the most strategically plugged-in figures connecting New England youth hockey to elite junior destinations, holding prominent positions across the exact leagues Souther projects to enter:
- The USHL Pipeline (Sioux Falls Stampede): Rose serves as the Head Scout for the USHL’s Sioux Falls Stampede. Because goalies are rarely taken in the 15-round USHL Phase I draft due to volatile development curves, teams heavily rely on affiliate lists and Phase II draft selections. Souther training face-to-face with a USHL Head Scout strongly positions him for a future affiliate tag or a high priority look in the upcoming USHL Phase II draft cycle.
- The QMJHL Outpost (Cape Breton Eagles): In September 2025, the QMJHL’s Cape Breton Eagleshired Rose as their primary United States scout to mine New England prep schools for talent. While major junior teams historically bypass American goaltenders due to NCAA commitment risks, Cape Breton now has an evaluator watching Souther on a routine basis. If Souther ever considers pivoting to the Canadian major junior route, Cape Breton holds a direct scout-to-player link.
- The Division I Bridge (Green Mountain Exposure): Rose operates Green Mountain Exposure Hockey, a regional pipeline explicitly designed to showcase local prospects to NCAA Division I coaches. Having previously served as an assistant coach at nearby Dartmouth College (Souther's hometown school), Rose's ice sessions act as a direct evaluation ground for top-tier college programs.
Elite Target Metrics Sitting comfortably at #11 overall in the United States for 2010-born goaltenders according to specialized tracking metrics, Souther possesses the profile high-end programs covet:
- The KUA Advantage: Holding a roster spot at Kimball Union Academy as an underclassman ensures weekly evaluation by Hockey East and ECAC scouts.
- Projectable Frame: At 16 years old, he is already pushing a 6'0" frame with a 73-inch wingspan, filling the net effectively while displaying the athletic mobility required of modern positional goaltenders.
What Lies Ahead Because NCAA rules forbid official recruiting contact or scholarship offers until August 1st before a player’s junior year of high school, Souther's recruitment will remain quiet on paper for the immediate future.However, do not mistake a quiet paper trail for an empty scouting folder. By anchoring his development at KUA and training directly within the John Rose scouting pipeline, Souther is perfectly insulated. Expect his name to emerge prominently on USHL affiliate sheets and high-end Division I watchlists over the next 12 to 18 months.Aug 20, 2026 The Hockey News 
