Now and again, a professional sports entry draft has a prospect involved with a unique journey story. One of those is Mason West, a candidate to be a top-60 selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. 

West is projected to go anywhere in the latter half of the first round or in the second round. He has top-ten talent, but one concern may keep teams from considering him. 

West is fully committed to playing hockey. He won a state title with Edina High School. However, he feels he has some unfinished business to take care of in another sport. 

Mason West is a talented high school quarterback, and he will play his senior year at Edina. His goal is to win the state title with his football squad as well. West said during the combine that a successful senior year and calls from high-level college football programs won’t stray him away from pursuing hockey. 

"[I'm] all in hockey, I want to pursue hockey," West said on pursuing hockey over football long-term. "The main goal is to win a state championship and do something special for my senior year. Nothing can really change that decision. I want to play hockey in college."

After football is over, West will resume playing in the USHL with the Fargo Force. He also announced that he will further his education and play Division One hockey at Michigan State University. 

Mason West ‘26 (@MasonWest2026) on X I’m honored to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey and further my education at Michigan State University. I am extremely grateful for my family, friends, coaches, and teammates who helped me along the way. #gogreen ⚪️🟢

If all goes well for Mason West, his path to the NHL will be a strong one. High school hockey, the USHL, and college hockey (especially at a program like MSU) are all great places to develop as a player. 

Is there an injury risk with football? Sure. The determination for him to get that state championship in football, however, is admirable. He has the signs of being a great teammate, which would benefit him in pro hockey. 

"The reason I wanted to play football is just [to] stay loyal to my teammates. Try to set goals for the football and hockey year to win a state championship in both. I've been able to do that in hockey but not football yet." 

The Chicago Blackhawks would be wise to take a risk on a player like this. The talent he brings to the table is undeniable. Chicago has enough selections in the bank to consider a move for West. 

If they felt that they must not leave the draft without him, they could take him with the 25th overall pick, which was originally given to them by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Blackhawks also have the 34th pick, their original second-round pick, assuming West makes it there. 

If West's football playing career makes him slide through most of the second round, which would be somewhat surprising, the Blackhawks could use pick 62 on him. This selection was given to them in a trade with the Dallas Stars. 

Kyle Davidson and his staff, if they like West's game and potential, have options when it comes to drafting him. Other teams will have the same idea, so it will be storyline to see how it falls.  

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