The NHLPA rookie showcase is a place where we get to see just how young these prospects really are in the grand scheme of hockey history. Take Montreal Canadiens prospect David Reinbacher, for example, who models his game after Brock Faber, the Minnesota Wild defenseman who was a runner-up for NHL rookie of the year in 2024. Then there’s Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick in this year’s draft by the New York Islanders, who talks about his coach Patrick Roy’s playing career as if he’s been around for it all. But in reality, Schaefer was born four years after Roy played his last game in April 2003.
When Schaefer visited Upper Deck’s offices, he was surrounded by reminders of Roy’s glory days as a legendary goaltender. From goalie pads to memorabilia, Schaefer couldn’t help but be in awe of his coach’s past. Roy, now in his third season coaching the Islanders, has been a source of inspiration for Schaefer, who is eager to hit the ice and get pushed to his limits during training camp. Despite being the youngest player on a roster filled with veterans, Schaefer is determined to earn his spot and prove himself in his rookie season.
The NHL prospects at the showcase were buzzing about the recent NCAA eligibility rule change that allows CHL players to compete in NCAA Division I hockey without jeopardizing their eligibility. This change has already led to top prospects like Gavin McKenna making the jump to college hockey, signifying a shift in the landscape of player development. Players like Karsen Dorwart, who signed with the Philadelphia Flyers after playing in the CHL, are excited about the new opportunities this rule change brings. Additionally, the potential AHL “19-year-old” rule is another significant development on the horizon, offering young players like Berkly Catton and Zayne Parekh a chance to showcase their talents at a higher level of competition.
At the showcase, we also got a sneak peek at some NHL uniform redesigns for the upcoming season. Players like Jimmy Snuggerud and Tij Iginla debuted new jerseys that pay homage to their team’s history and local flair. Meanwhile, Beckett Sennecke, a top prospect for the Anaheim Ducks, shared a fun tidbit about his mother, Candice Olson, a former HGTV star known for her interior design shows. With a famous mom in the design world, Sennecke jokes about the pressure of having a stylish home in the future. As these young prospects navigate the world of professional hockey, they also face unique challenges and opportunities that will shape their careers in the years to come.
