Overview

• The roundup identifies one leading prospect for all 32 teams, pairing scouting evaluations with near-term projections for NHL or AHL roles.
• For San Jose, Michael Misa’s opening-night odds hinge on signing his entry-level contract and the Sharks’ crowded 50‑contract limit.
• Dallas defenseman Lian Bichsel is portrayed as close to shedding the prospect label after 38 NHL games last season and a strong playoff run.
• Montreal’s Ivan Demidov is described as a Calder favorite, with others like Zeev Buium and Gabe Perreault viewed as candidates depending on opportunity.
• Pipeline disparities are emphasized, with Edmonton’s system called depleted and Tampa Bay’s thin, while Vancouver’s Tom Willander signed an ELC and faces an NHL-or-Abbotsford decision; a separate local analysis ranks him the Canucks’ top trade asset.