The 2024-25 NHL season has ushered in a thrilling new wave of rookies, with players drafted in recent years finally making their mark at the professional level. This year’s crop of talent is already generating significant buzz, injecting energy and excitement across the entire league. With a mix of highly touted prospects and surprising emerging stars, the rookie class has fans and analysts alike captivated by their potential. Let’s take a deep dive into some of the standout rookies and their early contributions so far this year.

 

1. Macklin Celebrini (San Jose Sharks) (2024, 1st overall)

Drafted first overall in 2024, Macklin Celebrini is living up to the hype as the Sharks’ future franchise-altering player. The 18-year-old phenom has wasted no time showcasing his dynamic scoring touch, elite hockey sense, and vision for playmaking. Celebrini’s ability to dominate in all three zones has made him an immediate impact player, giving the Sharks a much-needed offensive spark.

San Jose fans have already embraced Celebrini as a future cornerstone of their rebuilding efforts. His highlight-reel goals, combined with his poise under pressure, have made him a must-watch player. One of his standout performances this season was a two-goal, one-assist game against the rival Los Angeles Kings, where he demonstrated not only his offensive prowess but also his ability to play a responsible two-way game.

Celebrini’s work ethic and leadership qualities have also drawn praise from his teammates and coaches. Sharks veteran forward Tyler Toffoli praised Celebrini after his debut performance, saying he “did what everybody expected him to do,” referencing both his skillful plays and his commitment to team success. His composure under pressure and natural leadership qualities have quickly endeared him to fans in San Jose. With current Calder Trophy odds at +110 (via DraftKings), Celebrini is a clear frontrunner for the league’s top rookie honor.

 

2. Matvei Michkov (Philadelphia Flyers) (2023, 7th overall) 

After spending additional time developing in Russia with both Sochi and SKA, Matvei Michkov has finally joined the Flyers, and his arrival has been nothing short of electrifying. Michkov’s creativity and lethal scoring ability have bolstered Philadelphia’s offense, making him a constant threat in the offensive zone. Whether on the power play or at even strength, Michkov’s dazzling puck handling and elite vision are giving fans plenty of reasons to cheer, especially in overtime securing 3 game winning goals in extra time.

His integration into the Flyers system has also sparked hope for a franchise looking to return to contention. The chemistry Michkov is building with linemates Owen Tippett and Morgan Frost is an early sign that Philadelphia’s offense could be a force to reckon with for years to come. Michkov has been up and down the lineup this season and has even been a healthy scratch at times but he continues to prove his worth in a lineup some did not expect him to crack this season. Currently Michkov leads the NHL in rookie points with 9 goals and 10 assists. His current odds to win the Calder Trophy stand at +110 (via DraftKings), a testament to his immediate impact on the league.

 

3. Logan Stankoven (Dallas Stars) (2021, 47th overall)

Despite being slightly undersized at 5’8” 165 lbs, Logan Stankoven has proven that size is no barrier to success in the NHL. A skilled and tenacious forward, Stankoven combines high-end hockey sense with relentless determination. His versatility has allowed him to excel in various roles, whether setting up plays or finishing them just like he did during his time with the Kamloops Blazers in the WHL where he scored 97 points in 48 games and was awarded CHL and WHL player of the year. In his time last year with the Texas Stars he posted 57 points in 47 games in his first (half) season in the AHL where he was awarded the rookie of the year and was then called up to the Dallas Stars.

Stankoven’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments has been particularly noteworthy. Whether it’s scoring a clutch goal or delivering a crucial assist, he has quickly become a critical piece of the Dallas lineup. Playing alongside established stars like Jamie Benn, Matt Duchane and Tyler Seguin, Stankoven adds another layer of depth to the Stars’ highly potent offensive arsenal. With current Calder Trophy odds at +1000 (via DraftKings), he’s proving that heart and skill can more than compensate for his stature.

 

4. Dustin Wolf (Calgary Flames) (2019, 214th overall)

The wait is over for Flames fans, as goaltender Dustin Wolf has officially arrived on the NHL stage. After dominating in the AHL, where he earned goalie of the year back to back, Wolf has transitioned seamlessly to the NHL, displaying remarkable poise and athleticism in the crease. His quick reflexes and ability to steal games have solidified his role with the Calgary Flames

Wolf’s early performances have not only boosted Calgary’s playoff hopes but also provided a sense of stability in net that the team has lacked in recent years. His technical precision, combined with an unshakeable confidence, has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite goaltenders. This season Wolf is sporting a 2.60 goals against average and a .918 save percentage and is amongst the best in the NHL this season. With Calder Trophy odds at +1500 (via DraftKings), Wolf is still a strong contender for the award but will definitely be the cornerstone for the Flames future success.

 

5. Maxim Tsyplakov (New York Islanders) (Undrafted)

A lesser known prospect entering the season, Vasily Tsyplakov has emerged as a breakout star for the Islanders. The undrafted 26 year old Russian is one of the older rookies in this class, he spent the last 7 years developing in the KHL where he put up 47 points in 65 games last season. Tsyplakov’s blend of speed, size, skill, and tenacity has been a revelation for this struggling Islanders lineup. His two way game and ability to contribute in clutch situations have quickly earned him the trust of Patrick Roy and the coaching staff.

Tsyplakov has excelled in key moments, whether it’s killing penalties, scoring timely goals, or delivering highlight reel assists. His emergence as a hidden gem in the Islanders system has been a pleasant surprise for fans and management alike. As his confidence continues to grow, Tsyplakov has the potential to become a vital part of the team’s future. With Calder Trophy odds at +7500 (via DraftKings), his underdog story is one to watch this season.

 

Honorable Mentions

• Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadiens) (2022, 62nd overall): A dynamically offensive defenseman starting to find his rhythm and role on the Habs.Current odds to win the Calder +1500 (via DraftKings).
• Cutter Gauthier (Anaheim Ducks) (2022, 5th overall): Contributing as a versatile forward with upside he has been praised for his physicality and hockey IQ, making him a promising piece of the Ducks future. Current odds to win the Calder +6000 (via DraftKings).
• Will Smith (San Jose Sharks) (2023, 4th overall): A skilled and creative center/right wing known for his high hockey IQ and exceptional puck-handling abilities. A product of the U.S. National Team Development Program playing well in a depth role for the Sharks. He may be overshadowed by fellow rookie Macklin Celebrini but his odds to win the Calder still sit at +6000 (via DraftKings).

Shaping the NHL’s Future

As the season progresses, these rookies will continue to face the challenges of consistency, injuries, and the grind of an 82 game schedule. However, their early performances suggest that they’re more than up to the task. The Calder Trophy race promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with these rookies leading the charge.

From Celebrini and Michkov’s dominance and down the list, the impact these rookies will have is undeniable. Keep an eye on this group because they’re not just making their debuts, they’re laying the groundwork for what promises to be tremendous NHL careers.

 

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