The Vancouver Canucks enter the 2025 NHL Entry Draft with a pick in each round. Leading up to the draft, we at The Hockey News will profile a different prospect who the Canucks could take with each of their picks. Today's prospect is Swift Current Broncos' defenceman Peyton Kettles, who Vancouver could select 65th overall.
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If the Canucks want to add a big, right-shot defensive defenceman, than Kettles might be their guy. Listed at 6'5", 194lbs, Kettles is a shutdown defender who isn't afraid to play a physical game. He also set a new career high for points this season, with 14 during his 53 games.
While Kettles has always been good in the defensive zone, he took another step forward in his development this year. He was often the first over the boards on the penalty kill and was consistently matched up against the opposition's top players. Whether it is defending against the rush or established zone time, Kettles understands where he needs to be positionally, which allows him to break up passing lanes.
When Kettles is defending, he often elects to use his reach to free pucks. He has a very active stick and showed throughout the season that he is more than willing to block shots. Kettles also became better at winning puck battles along the boards, which is an area that has improved significantly since he made the jump to the WHL.
The next step in Kettles development will be his work in the offensive zone. While he does have a decent shot, he needs to continue to improve his passing, as well as puck handling skills at the blue line. Overall, he should be able to add these tools over time, which will make him a more complete defender.
Kettles projects as a third-pair defenceman who also plays significant minutes on the penalty kill. He has attributes that translate to the pro game, and, as a right-shot defenceman, fills a need in the prospect pool. If he is available for selection in the third round, Vancouver should consider adding Kettles to their organization.
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