The WHL is stacked with talented prospects expected to be selected during the 2025 NHL draft. From skaters to goaltenders, projections indicate that quite a few WHLers will hear their name called in the first round in June. With the 2024-25 regular season coming to a close, it is the perfect time to release the newest edition of the top 10 prospects for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. 

1. Roger McQueen (C)- Brandon Wheat Kings

Despite missing the majority of the season, Roger McQueen is still considered the top WHL prospect in the 2025 draft. Listed at 6'5", 197 lbs., the Brandon Wheat Kings center is a fantastic skater and, when healthy, can be a force in the offensive zone. The big question is, will his injury history deter teams from selecting him in the top 10? 

2. Radim Mrtka (RD)- Seattle Thunderbirds

While Radim Mrtka has only played 30 games in the WHL, it is clear why scouts consider him a top-15 pick. The 6'6", 207 lbs. defender is an excellent puck carrier and, with 27 assists in 30 games, has had no problem showcasing his playmaking skills. While it did take some time for Mrtka to adjust to the WHL, he is now showing why the Seattle Thunderbirds were so excited when he left Czechia to join their team. 

3. Carter Bear (LW)- Everett Silvertips

Carter Bear has been a goal-scoring machine for the Everett Silvertips this season. His 38 goals in 49 games ranks first among all draft-eligible players in the WHL, while he sits tied for second in points with 77. Listed at 6'0", 179 lbs., his ability to impact the game at both ends of the ice is why he should hear his name called early this year.

4. Ben Kindel (C) - Calgary Hitmen

What a season it has been for Ben Kindel. The Calgary Hitmen center leads all draft-eligible WHLers with 85 points in 52 games and has played a significant role in helping Calgary clinch a playoff spot. Whether it is through his playmaking or goal-scoring, Kindel has become one of the best offensive players in the WHL and a prospect who should hear his name called in the first round. 

5. Jackson Smith (LD)- Tri-City Americans

Jackson Smith is the exact type of defenseman that teams jump at the opportunity to add to their system. The Tri-City Americans defender is listed at 6'3", 195 lbs., and excels in the transition game. From strong skating to good puck management, Smith's ability to carry the puck out of his end and into the offensive zone is a skill that should translate well to the pro games. 

6. Cole Reschny (C)- Victoria Royals

If NHL teams are looking for a solid two-way center, then Cole Reschny is their guy. With 77 points in 51 games, the Victoria Royals center has become a high-end point producer as well as one of the best puck battle winners in the WHL. Listed at 5'10", 183 lbs., Reschny could skyrocket up draft lists if he and the Royals go on a long playoff run.

7. Lynden Lakovic (LW)- Moose Jaw Warriors

Lyden Lakovic is an intriguing prospect. The newest captain of the Moose Jaw Warriors has taken his game to another level this season and become a high-end play driver. Listed at 6'4", 190 lbs., watch for Lakovic to be one of the first players named to Team Canada's U18 team once the regular season is complete. 

8. Braeden Cootes (C)- Seattle Thunderbirds

Braeden Cootes has developed into one of the best matchup centers in the WHL. Listed at 5'11", 183 lbs., Cootes consistently wins puck battles and, more often than not, is the first forward back to help defend. The Thunderbirds captain also loves to drive play and has already set a new career-high with 48 points through his first 47 games.

9. Cameron Schmidt (RW)- Vancouver Giants

Few players in the WHL have a better shot than Cameron Schmidt. Listed at 5'7", 161 lbs., Schmidt has cracked the 30-goal mark for the second straight season and already set a new career-high with 63 points in 48 games. A combination of speed and skill, the Vancouver Giants winger is a highlight-reel machine that can make teams pay in the transition game. 

10. Blake Fiddler (RD)- Edmonton Oil Kings

Blake Fiddler is an offensively gifted defender who thrives in the transition game. The Edmonton Oil Kings defenseman is listed at 6'4", 209 lbs., and has already set a new career-high with 24 points in 50 games. Ultimately, Fiddle is a threat from the point when the puck is on his stick, and with 102 shots on goal, he has shown that he can get shots through traffic without any issues. 

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